Why Every Commercial Pool Needs a PSOP – And How to Get Yours Right

A Pool Safe Operating Procedure (PSOP) is not just a document – it’s a critical foundation of safety and compliance for any commercial or public pool. Whether you're managing a school pool, hotel spa, leisure centre, or providing pool hire for private sessions or swimming lessons, a PSOP ensures consistent operations, protects users, and helps safeguard your business.

What Is a PSOP – and Why Is It Important?

A well-constructed PSOP should follow the latest guidance from the Pool Water Treatment Advisory Group (PWTAG), its Code of Practice, and HSE guidelines, including HSG179 for swimming pools and HSG282 for spa pools.

If you’re operating a facility that is open to the public or used commercially in any capacity, you should have a PSOP in place. This includes activities such as:

• Pool hire for private parties or events

• Swim schools and lessons

• Therapy sessions or aqua fitness classes

• Any kind of supervised or unsupervised public access

The Benefits of a PSOP

A PSOP is more than a compliance document. When created and used properly, it becomes:

• A staff training and induction tool, helping new team members get up to speed quickly

• A daily operational guide, ensuring all staff follow consistent and safe procedures

• A legal safeguard in the event of an incident – proof that your pool follows industry best practice

If your PSOP is written with care and staff are trained to follow it, it shows that your facility takes health and safety seriously – a major factor in any legal investigation after an accident.

What Should Be Included in a PSOP?

A complete PSOP is typically made up of three key components:

1. Normal Operating Procedure (NOP)

This outlines the everyday running of the pool, including:

• Management structure and responsibilities

• Pool layout and features

• Routine inspection and maintenance tasks

• Cleaning schedules and water testing routines

2. Emergency Action Plan (EAP)

Details how to respond in case of:

• Chemical spills or leaks

• Accidents or medical incidents

• Faecal contamination

• Fire, equipment failure, or pool closure procedures

3. Pool Technical Operating Procedure (PTOP)

A technical guide covering:

• Equipment setup and schematics

• Service records and maintenance history

• Planned Preventative Maintenance (PPM) instructions and schedules

• Emergency contact information for engineers and contractors

How Do You Start Writing a PSOP?

It starts with risk assessments. Every task and potential user hazard needs to be reviewed thoroughly. Examples of key assessments include:

• Outlet entrapment testing to BS EN 13451-3

• Dye testing to check water circulation and disinfection effectiveness

These should be carried out when the pool first opens and after any significant changes to the plant or circulation system. Though risk assessments can be time-consuming, they are the backbone of your PSOP.

If you’re new to this or lack technical expertise, it’s perfectly normal to seek help.

Don’t Let Perfection Be the Enemy of Progress

Your PSOP doesn’t have to be perfect from day one. What’s most important is getting started. You can refine and build on it as your experience grows and as operations evolve.

Need Help Creating a PSOP? We’ve Got You Covered

At The Pool Operators Club®, we support commercial pool operators in developing safe, compliant and effective pool operating procedures. As a member, you’ll gain:

• Access to PSOP-specific courses and templates

• Expert guidance via our Community Forum

• Live Q&A sessions and webinars with pool industry professionals

Whether you’re a small school pool, independent swim teacher, or a leisure centre manager, we’ll help you build confidence in your documentation – and your operation.

👉 Ready to get started? Join The Pool Operators Club® today and take the first step towards a safer, more compliant facility.