Etiquette & Protocol
Assisted Lifeguard Technology FAQs
Last Updated: 01 Nov 2024
What is a Assisted Lifeguard Technology?
It uses Artificial Intelligence (AI) software or motion detection programmes which feed onto screens and swimmer behaviour analysis to provide a complete real-time understanding of what is happening above and below the water surface. It continuously monitors pool users and promptly alerts lifeguards via smartwatches about anyone needing assistance. It supports lifeguards in quickly assessing situations and reacting appropriately. The systems will work with either the use of Overhead or Underwater camera systems that will alert and support the operational team in their duties.
Oswestry Leisure Centre operates with Poolview.
Why have Assisted Lifeguard Technology?
Assisted lifeguard technology is a way of giving our operational team an additional level of safety and support. The technology enhances the human eye by giving a reassurance vision of all swimmers in the pool. ALT is supported and developed in line with the Royal Lifesaving Society and creates a blended lifeguard approach.
Will the Assisted Lifeguard Technology mean the number of lifeguards on poolside is reduced?
Assisted Lifeguard Technology systems are designed to support the work of lifeguards. The number of lifeguards on duty is still determined by zone visibility tests, the activities taking place in the water and the bather load within the pool. The additional visibility that the system allows is also considered and means it will not always be necessary to have a second or third lifeguard surveying the pool in order to achieve the required levels of visibility.
Who can view the footage?
Footage to the images or displays are restricted based on the system that is in place. For sites that use underwater cameras the images will display to a screen positioned on the lifeguard chair. Those sites using the CCTV AI technology will have alerts sent to a watch worn by the lifeguard. All images that are stored in the system can only be viewed by authorised individuals
How long is data from the system stored for?
All data collected by the system is subject to General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR) and the Data Protection Act 2018. Footage will only ever be stored for longer than the seven days if it provides evidence for an incident that requires investigation.
How is the data from the system stored?
Data of swimmer numbers will display on the system dashboard that can only be accessed by authorised personnel. All data is located on a closed and segregated network, protected by firewalls which is only accessible via a VPN that holds three levels of password security.
How have customers been informed about the installation of the systems?
Notices are displayed in our centre, specifically where the Assisted Lifeguard Technology systems are installed. The notices inform customers that CCTV monitoring and a ALT system are in operation in the interest of health and safety.
If an incident required the footage to be kept for more than seven days, how is it stored?
As previously stated, footage will only ever be stored for longer than the seven days if it has recorded an incident that requires investigation. On the rare occasion that this happens, the footage will be downloaded onto an encrypted hard-drive and stored in a secure safe. The only people with access to the safe and hard drive are approved senior colleagues. The footage will be securely destroyed as soon as it is no longer relevant to an investigation.