Pre-Season Planning
As someone in the aquatic industry, I'm often asked, "What do you do in the winter?" I think they expect to hear that I'm on
a beach in some tropical paradise.
A seasonal aquatic operation, with its constant starts and stops, is similar to opening a new business every year. It requires a great deal of planning and preparation to ensure
a successful season. Then, just when all systems are in place and functioning as planned, the facility is closed for the winter and the process starts all over again.
By developing a detailed schedule with a list of tasks to open, operate and close a facility, the process can be streamlined therefore reducing your chance of error or oversight.
FACILITY INSPECTION
Inspect facility components and identify what tasks need to be accomplished before opening day. Areas to be given special attention may include:
Pool shell. Is
there any evidence of frost heave or freeze damage? Areas to check closely include gutters, coping, walls, expansion joints, light niches, inlets and the main drain. Visible signs of damage include spalling, cracking or a change in elevation.
Pool deck. Have the concrete slabs shifted, exposing edges that are easy to trip on? ave unsightly cracks or areas that will hold water and dirt developed, resulting in a hazardous surface?
EQUIPMENT
Deck equipment.
Is the deck equipment clean and in good working order for opening day? Identify those items that need to be repaired or discarded.
Diving boards, slides and stands. Inspect the platform/stands for structural integrity. Any mounting bolts should be tightened and checked for integrity and corrosion. If the stand is metal, it may be appropriate to paint it to protect it from the corrosive
properties of pool water.
Safety equipment. Is all required safety equipment - safety ropes, ring buoys, backboards, rescue tubes, first-aid kits and perimeter fencing - in good working order?
MECHANICAL EQUIPMENT
Inspect the motor and pump for any damage. Does the impeller spin freely? Are the gaskets, valves and gauges in good working order? Is there any evidence of a pipe break (water
dripping or a visible fracture)? Are all the freeze plugs still in place or have some been removed where water could get in the lines? Filter tanks inspected for integrity? Are the supports corroded? Are there any rust spots or pinholes in the system?
SUPPORT AREAS
Check bathhouse walls, ceilings, windows, skylights, roofs and door jambs for vandalism or freeze damage. Itemize paint requirements. Inspect floors for potential slippery surfaces
and any sharp edges or objects. Verify that all drain grating is securely in place. Inspect the fresh water plumbing system, including the hot water heater, mixing valves, traps and fixtures for any breaks or required maintenance. Inspect the electrical panel
and verify that all connections are secure and protective covers are in place.
All aquatic facilities should have an ongoing inspection program for these elements. By identifying potential problems in the pre-season, there's time to consult the manufacturer
and make necessary repairs without inconveniencing patrons later on.
