Swimming Pool Technical Operator (SPTO)

Water Testing
Learners are required to conduct comprehensive water tests, showcasing proficiency in utilising appropriate equipment and sampling techniques. Tests cover parameters including free chlorine/total bromine (if bromine is primary disinfectant), combined chlorine, pH, total bromine, alkalinity, calcium hardness, total dissolved solids, and sulphates.

Schematic Drawing
Students must create a detailed schematic of their pool and its water treatment system, illustrating the flow direction of key components such as filters, pumps, strainers, automatic dosing units, monitoring equipment, and main valves. Arrows should denote flow direction for clarity.

Backwash
Learners select a designated pool and follow standard operating procedures to conduct a thorough backwash procedure, including the removal and cleaning of pre-pump strainers. They must provide a rationale for performing this task, detailing its necessity and the appropriate timing according to operational requirements.

Risk Assessment
Conducting a risk assessment for a single pool chemical involves evaluating the storage, handling, and usage guidelines specific to a chemical housed in the plant room of a selected swimming pool.

All assessment elements must be completed and performed independently by the learner without prompting by the tutor or manager. Learners must achieve a minimum of 15/20 to pass the multiple-choice assessment. To pass the post course practical assignment, learners must satisfactorily complete the practical elements and be signed off as competent. The course tutor assumes responsibility for determining successful completion of the course.

Learners who do not meet the minimum requirements to pass have the opportunity to attempt another multiple-choice test with a different set of questions or re-attempt a practical element.

Resits can take place at the end of the course, time permitting, or up to a further 28 days after the last day of the course.

On the first day of the course, learners are required to be at least 18 years old. It is recommended that learners have a basic level 1 proficiency in both literacy and numeracy.

For companies booking a course on-site, you should also provide a room large enough to hold the required number of attendees comfortably.