What is a Lifeguard Audit?
A lifeguard audit is the process of discreetly assessing lifeguards while on duty. It aims to evaluate a lifeguard’s performance, compliance with business regulations, and readiness in case of incidents. Performed by lifeguard supervisors or third-party auditors, it ensures safety through prevention of aquatic accidents that could lead to drowning, physical injuries, or even death.
Importance of Lifeguard Audits
Aquatic businesses are required to prepare and manage a lifeguard team that can properly address aquatic risks, hazards, and incidents. An audit is important to be conducted on a regular basis to ensure that lifeguards are:
1.) Always prepared for lifeguard duty scenarios
2.) Ensure that lifeguards are provided with enough supply of rescue equipment
3.) Identify areas for improvement
4.) Stay compliant to standard regulations and avoid legal issues by conducting these audits on a regular basis
How Often Should a Lifeguard Audit be Conducted?
A lifeguard audit should be conducted at least every two weeks, but preferably every week. Conducting more frequent lifeguard audits can help identify points for improvement easier, as well as improve the level of service lifeguards can offer. Frequent lifeguard audits can also help in identifying issues with management, risk management, and compliance with safety measures.
What Should a Lifeguard Audit Check For?
During the audit, the lifeguard audit should include a review of the lifeguard safety plan, checking that all lifesaving equipment is functioning properly, and checking the lifeguard rosters to ensure that all lifeguards are properly certified. The lifeguard auditor should also inspect the beach or pool area for potential safety hazards. Some common hazards to look out for include:
- Strong currents
- Jellyfish
- Strong tides
In addition to the immediate hazards and equipment around a pool or beach area, a lifeguard audit template should also be used for:
- Recording lifesaving activities
- Documenting incidents
- Evaluating lifeguard appearance
- Assessing lifeguard performance
Types of Lifeguard Audit
Types of lifeguard audits generally fall into several key categories, each serving to ensure safety, compliance, and preparedness in aquatic environments. Here are a few examples:
- Internal Audits – Conducted by facility managers, these audits evaluate lifeguard performance through unannounced practical tests and observation. They ensure readiness, vigilance, and adherence to safety protocols. These audits may include Visual Awareness Tests (VAT) where an instructor may pretend to be struggling and drowning in the aquatic premises and measure the time it takes for the lifeguard to react.
- SEE Audits (Supervision, Evaluation, and Enhancement) – These audits focus on the quality of lifeguard supervision and team performance. They identify areas for improvement to enhance aquatic safety.
- Topical Audits – Target specific safety elements like equipment, signage, or lifeguard positioning. They help address particular risks and compliance issues.
3 Elements of a Lifeguard Audit
The following are the essential elements that help identify critical failure, minor mistakes, and lifeguards’ training needs when performing lifeguard audits.
1. Hygiene
Lifeguards should always follow good hygiene standards. Wearing appropriate uniform is a must to determine the lifeguard in charge in a specific area. Also, maintaining a fit physique is necessary so they can quickly respond in case of an emergency.
2. Behavior
Lifeguards’ primary responsibility is to keep an eye on people within the facility. They must recognize any anomalous movement or anything out of the ordinary and respond to it immediately. They should also enforce rules and regulations to maintain safe operations.
3. Compliance
Lifeguard certification trainings are important to ensure lifeguards’ competence and continuous learning. They also help lifeguards in the performance of their duties to the best of their ability. They must be knowledgeable in carrying out proper life-saving procedures and be able to apply first aid effectively.
What should be included in a Lifeguard Audit Checklist
A Lifeguard Audit Checklist should include the following key elements:
- Lifeguard Vigilance and Behavior: Observe if lifeguards remain alert, scan their zones effectively, enforce rules, and respond promptly to any signs of distress or anomalous activity.
- Emergency Response Skills: Evaluate lifeguards’ proficiency in rescues, CPR, and first aid through drills or real-time observation to ensure readiness for emergencies.
- Equipment and Supplies: Check that all lifesaving equipment (rescue tubes, backboards, first aid kits, CPR masks) is accessible, in good condition, and properly positioned, along with visible safety signage.
- Pool Area Safety: Inspect the pool or beach environment for hazards such as slippery surfaces, strong currents, or obstructed pathways, and verify that safety rules are clearly posted and enforced.
- Hygiene and Appearance: Confirm lifeguards wear clean, appropriate uniforms, carry necessary items like whistles, and maintain physical fitness to perform their duties effectively.
- Compliance and Certification: Ensure all lifeguards hold current certifications (e.g., Red Cross Lifeguarding), follow rotation schedules properly, and adhere to operational protocols including handover procedures.
- Documentation and Incident Records: Record lifesaving activities, incidents, audit observations, and recommendations, with signatures from supervisors to validate the audit.
Jona Tarlengco