Standardized Training – After “push” off the diving board: rescuers are allowed to do that

Ideally, lifeguards don’t make a big impression. If everyone follows the rules and no one gets hurt, they don’t have to intervene. In the background, however, they ensure that the water quality is in order and that all systems are running. In recent days, however, the profession has stepped out of the shade of its parasol: A lifeguard at the outdoor swimming pool in Steyr has reportedly been temporarily suspended after allegedly involuntarily kicking a young man from the ten-meter tower.

Bath or restraining order for offenders
The powers of the “pool agents” in Steyr are precisely regulated: “The basis is the house and bath rules,” says Carmen Braun, spokeswoman for the city. “By purchasing the ticket, the guest agrees to the house rules.” Anyone who breaks these rules can be warned by the lifeguard – even several times. “If that doesn’t help, a bathing ban for the rest of the day or a permanent ban on the house may be imposed,” Braun explains. In the event of threats or abuse, the lifeguards are obliged to call the police for help.

Uniform training
The training of the staff in our swimming pools is regulated uniformly throughout Austria. In Upper Austria, the WIFI offers courses on what are known as lifeguards for large systems. About 50 people complete it each year. “You learn swimming pool hygiene, physics, chemistry, water treatment or communication and complaints management,” says Martina Mayr-Mauhart of WIFI. Lifeguard training takes the longest, but is not offered by WIFI Oberösterreich: it comprises 73 units. Nine lifeguard or lifeguard positions are currently vacant in Upper Austria.