education and events
On-Demand Courses
PHTA offers many on-demand courses covering a wide range of pool and hot tub industry topics. You can find courses on water chemistry, construction and engineering, retail, codes and regulations, and much more.
Business/Leadership Courses
This course provides an awareness of issues relating to discrimination in the workplace and practical considerations for avoiding discriminatory practices, including discrimination associated with race, color, religion, creed, sex, national origin, age, citizenship, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identification, political ideology, medical condition, sensory, physical or mental disability, or any other characteristic protected by local, state, or federal law.
Course Fee: $39/member and $79/non-member.
Securing enough staff to fill lifeguard positions across the country is a challenge every year. This session is designed to help aquatics professionals adapt and customize their approach to find, train, and staff sufficient lifeguards to staff tomorrow’s aquatic facilities. Come learn how industry leaders are combatting this problem.
Learning Objectives:
- Review challenges and best practices for recruiting domestically and abroad.
- Discuss motivating factors for today's young workforce.
- Customize your approach to your market.
Instructor: Craig Sears
Course Fee: $39/member and $79/non-member.
Focus. Within the pool and spa industry and the business we provide, it should be easy to focus on the tasks at hand. We have a lead, we contact, connect, discuss, examine, and contract our project. However, as each project is different, each client is different, and it's easy to lose 'focus' or inspiration. In this session, GENESIS® Ambassador and SWD Master Brian Van Bower will examine ways to maintain your focus, expand your knowledge, and find new ways to revitalize while inspiring and creating unique masterpieces for your customers. This was recorded for the 2021 GENESIS® Symposium.
Learning Objectives:
- Examine ways to stay focused.
- Define resources to rejuvenate.
- Discuss tips and tricks of Ki.
Instructor: Brian Van Bower
Course Fee: $39/member and $79/non-member.
A vibrant aquatics program is one where team members are inspired and empowered to deliver high-quality programs and services. This takes a commitment to identifying, coaching, and mentoring key team leaders who then can influence their peers and encourage a culture both of safety and success. Join us as we explore proven strategies to engage your team and elevate your program to the next level.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify effective methods of building and engaging teams.
- List three ways to improve training through the use of peer mentors.
- Learn how cultivating effective team leaders improves guest service, emergency response, and daily operations.
Instructors:
- Shawn DeRosa
- Joey Rusnak
Course Fee: $39/member and $79/non-member.
This online course trains staff to recognize, report, and prevent incidents of sexual harassment in the workplace. Sexual Harassment for Employees training focuses on the below learning objectives, while the online format allows students to learn at their own pace.
Learning Objectives:
- Define sexual harassment.
- Identify behaviors that might be considered sexual harassment.
- Identify the steps an employee should take if harassment occurs.
- Identify actions that can help prevent sexual harassment in their workplace.
- Identify management responsibilities in responding to a harassment complaint.
- Define retaliation and identify examples.
Course Fee: $50/member and $99/non-member.
During this session, Attorney Steven Getzoff will examine ways to protect your business from the common liability traps. Students will review contracts and warranties, discuss consumer fraud issues, and identify employment laws and regulations.
Course Fee: $39/member and $79/non-member.
Certification Courses
This course is an excellent preparation for the CBP (Certified Building Professional®) exam. The course takes you through the PHTA Builders Manual and gives you what you need to know to conform to industry standards. The course covers all types of pool and spa water feature construction and reviews the construction process in detail from design to pool and spa start-up.
Target Audience: The PSCC is for novice and experienced pool builders, as well as designers who need to know more about pool and spa construction.
How You Will Benefit:
- Advance your career and earn the in-demand skills employers want.
- Become eligible to sit for the CBP exam.
- Earn 24 CEUs.
What You Get with The Course:
- Eight weeks access to the virtual course
- PHTA Builders Manual
- PHTA Pool and Spa Construction Workbook
Course Fee: $623/member and $773/non-member. An additional $24 shipping and handling fee for the books will be charged.
Course Outline:
Safety
- Workplace Safety
- Chemical Safety
- Electrical Safety
- Structural Safety
Business Practices
- Business and Finance
- Insurance
- Loss Control
Preliminary Planning and Layout
- Layout and Staking
- Pool Math
- Project Layout
Excavation
- Excavating Equipment
- Applicable OSHA Regulations
- Excavation Guidelines
Circulation, Filtration and Hydraulics
- Circulation and Piping
- System Requirements
- Filtration
- Filter Types
- Using TDH Information
- Turnover and Flow Rate
Electrical
- Basic Electric Circuit
- Electrical Code Requirements
- Pool and Spa Lighting
Basic Structures
- Working with Concrete and Related Materials
- Concrete Pool and Spa Structures
- Fiberglass Pool Construction
- Vinyl Liner Construction
- Aboveground/Onground Pool
Water Features
- Vanishing Edge Pools
- Perimeter Overflow Pools
- Fountains
Deck Work
- Concrete Decks
- Non-concrete Decks
Coping, Tile and Interior Surfaces
- Coping, Tiling, Paint
- Interior Finishes for Concrete Pools
Accessories
- Chemical Feeders
- Dehumidying, Heating, Venting and Air Handling
- Pool and Spa Covers
- Fire Elements
Start-up
- Basic Water Chemistry
- Informing Your Customers About Safety
This course takes you through the PHTA Service Tech Manual and gives you what you need to know to conform to industry standards. After completing this course, the student will have gained a strong understanding of Safety, Pool Circulation and Filtration, Pool Maintenance, and Water Quality; learned about other important topics such as electrical systems, pool structures and finishes, heaters and controls, and customer service; and earned a name for yourself in the pool industry as a maintenance person in the know!
Target Audience: The CMS course is for those new to the pool and spa industry or working a pool maintenance route.
How You Will Benefit:
- Advance your career and earn the in-demand skills employers want.
- Become eligible to sit for the CMS exam.
- Earn 24 CEUs.
What You Get with The Course:
- Eight weeks access to the virtual course
- A copy of the PHTA Service Tech Manual
- The CMS (Certified Maintenance Specialist) Workbook
Course Fee: $473/member and $573/non-member. An additional $24 shipping and handling fee for the books will be charged.
Course Outline:
Safety
- Chemical Safety
- Drowning and Accident Prevention
- Electrical Safety
- Filter Safety
Business Practices
- Basic Calculations
- Customer Service
- Legal Considerations
- Troubleshooting Resources
Water Quality
- Basic Water Chemistry
- Chemical Safety
- Pool and Spa Water Sanitizers
- Water Balance
- Water Testing
Structures and Finishes
- Pool and Spa Structures
- Interior Finishes and Repairs
- Spa Shell Repairs
Circulation, Filtration, and Hydraulics
- The Circulation System
- Filter Rate, Efficiency, and Performance
- Hydraulics
- Pumps
- New Design Considerations
Electrical Requirements
- Basic Electrical Circuit
- Basic Electricity
- Pool and Spa Lighting
Heaters and Optional Equipment
- Gas Heaters
- Heat Pumps
- Chemical Feeders and Generators
Control Systems
- Electromechanical (Pneumatic) Controls
- Understanding Control Systems
Maintenance
- Routine Maintenance
- Seasonal and Special Care
- Covers
- Startup Procedures
This online self-paced course takes you through the PHTA Service Tech Manual and gives you what you need to know to conform to industry standards. You will be able to explain common problems with pool finishes and how to repair them; keep pools running more efficiently with a better understanding of circulation, filtration, hydraulics, and electricity; grow your practical knowledge and gain troubleshooting skills and resources; and distinguish yourself as an experienced and knowledgeable service technician.
You do not need to have completed the CMS certification in order to attend this course and sit for the CST exam, but you will be expected to have acquired the core knowledge covered in that course. We recommend that you have at least 1–2 years of experience in pool/spa service and repair to expect to be successful on the certification exam.
Target Audience: The CST course is for individuals with at least 1–2 years of experience in pool and spa service and repair.
Learning Objectives: After completing this course, the student will be able to explain common problems with pool finishes and how to repair them; keep pools running more efficiently with a better understanding of circulation, filtration, hydraulics and electricity; grow your practical knowledge and gain troubleshooting skills and resources; and distinguish yourself as an experienced and knowledgeable service technician.
How You Will Benefit:
- Advance your career and earn the in-demand skills employers want.
- Become eligible to sit for the CST exam.
- Earn 24 CEUs.
What You Get with The Course:
- Eight weeks access to the virtual course
- PHTA Service Technician Manual
- CST (Certified Service Technician) Workbook
Course Fee: $573/member and $723/non-member. An additional $24 shipping and handling fee for the books will be charged.
Course Outline:
Safety
- Chemical Safety
- Drowning and Accident Prevention
- Electrical Safety
- Filter Safety
Business Practices
- Basic Calculations
- Customer Service
- Legal Considerations
- Troubleshooting Resources
Water Quality
- Basic Water Chemistry
- Chemical Safety
- Pool and Spa Water Sanitizers
- Water Balance
- Water Testing
Structures and Finishes
- Pool and Spa Structures
- Interior Finishes and Repairs
- Spa Shell Repairs
Circulation, Filtration, and Hydraulics
- The Circulation System
- Filter Rate, Efficiency, and Performance
- Hydraulics
- Pumps
- New Design Considerations
Electrical Requirements
- Basic Electrical Circuit
- Basic Electricity
- Pool and Spa Lighting
Heaters and Optional Equipment
- Gas Heaters
- Heat Pumps
- Chemical Feeders and Generators
Control Systems
- Electromechanical (Pneumatic) Controls
- Understanding Control Systems
Maintenance
- Routine Maintenance
- Seasonal and Special Care
- Covers
- Start-up Procedures
After completing this course, the student will have gained a wide body of practical knowledge on servicing and troubleshooting factory-built portable hot tubs regardless of brand; mastered the essentials of hot tub water chemistry, electrical systems, circulation, and filtration; and learned tips and tricks for basic repairs to interior surfaces. The Certified Hot Tub Technician program covers the essentials of servicing portable hot tubs, and equipment repair and replacement. Instruction is given by industry experts, based upon the PHTA Hot Tub Technician Manual and Workbook. Upon completion of the training program, you will be eligible to take the CHTT exam. There are no experience requirements; new employees are eligible.
The registration fee includes the PHTA Certified Hot Tub Technician Manual and Workbook.
Target Audience: Individuals in the service industry who service and repair portable hot tubs. Taking this class makes you eligible to take the PHTA CHTT test to become a CHTT (Certified Hot Tub Technician®). There are no experience requirements; new employees are eligible. 24 CEUs are earned after successfully completing this course.
How You Will Benefit:
- Advance your career and earn the in-demand skills employers want.
- Become eligible to sit for the CHTT exam.
- Earn 24 CEUs.
What You Get with The Course:
- Eight weeks access to the virtual course
- PHTA Hot Tub Technician Manual
- PHTA CHTT (Certified Hot Tub Technician) Workbook
Course Fee: $573/member and $723/non-member. An additional $24 shipping and handling fee for the books will be charged.
Learning Objectives: Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:
- Describe 5 basic safety considerations for tools used on the job.
- Identify basic chemical hazards.
- Identify 5 warning signs of hot tub contamination.
- Know how to respond to and use customer complaints.
- Describe the difference between a self-contained and a non-self-contained hot tub.
- Explain the concept of volts, amps, ohms, and conductors.
- Name the most common types of electrical tests.
- Describe the different circulation system components.
- Describe two different hot tub plumbing configurations.
- Know what key factors to consider when replacing a pump motor.
- Understand the major function of each component connected to the control unit.
- Describe the basic steps in troubleshooting 4 common heating problems.
- List guidelines for safe handling, transport and storage of hazardous chemicals.
- Know how to decontaminate a hot tub.
Course Outline:
Safety and Health
- Drowning and Accident Prevention
- Safe Work Habits
- Chemical Safety
- Electrical Safety
- Accessory Equipment Safety
- When to Close a Hot Tub
- Hot Tub Decontamination
- Health Benefits and Hazards
- First Aid
- Physical and Environmental Hazards
- Recreational Water Illness (RWI)
Practical Knowledge for Technicians
- Customer Service
- Legal Considerations
- Basic Calculations
Structures and Finishes
- Materials Used in Hot Tub Manufacture
- Surface Repairs
- Hot Tub Selection and Installation
Electrical Systems
- Safety and Electrical Systems
- Basic Electricity
- Basic Electrical Circuit
- Basic Terms / Components Used in Circuits
- Electrical Testing
- Electrical Safety Requirements
Circulation, Plumbing, and Filtration
- Circulation System Components
- Suction Side Components
- Pipes and Fittings
- Circulation System Renovation
Hydraulics
- Pressure
- Resistance
- Total Dynamic Head
- Using TDH Information
Filtration Systems
- Filter Design and Location
- Filter Maintenance and Cleaning
- How to Replace a Cartridge
Pumps and Equipment Systems
- Electromagnetism and Electric Motors
- Pump Motors
- Centrifugal Pumps
- Troubleshooting
Hot Tub Equipment
- Connections
- Loads
- Controls
- Plumbing
- Troubleshooting
Control Systems
- Control System Types
- Hot Tub Control Circuit Components
- Hot Tub Safety Device Requirements
- EM Control System
- Electronic Control Systems
Heaters and Accessories
- Heater Types and Sizing
- Heater Replacement
- Types of Immersion Heaters
- Electric Heater Failure Modes
- Technical and Troubleshooting Reference Guide
- Accessories: Air Blowers, Ozone Generators, and Lights
Water Chemistry
- Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
- Handling Chemicals
- Transporting Chemicals
- OSHA Safety Rules
- SARA
- Chemical Storage Data Sheets
- Basic Water Chemistry
- Preventive Practices
- Water Balance
- Hot Tub Water Sanitization
- Water Testing
- Ancillary Hot Tub Products
General Maintenance
- Routine Maintenance
- Seasonal and Special Care
- Covers
The Certified Pool & Spa Inspector (CPI) provides a standardized training program for health officials and pool operators to conduct pool and spa inspections. This course focuses on performing an inspection of the pool and spa area; evaluating swimming pool operation and maintenance; assessing the circulation system and its components; evaluating a facility for VGB Act compliance; recognizing the elements of spa inspections; understanding recreational water illnesses; maintaining supervision and operator records; recognizing the elements of aquatic play features; and understanding swimming pool design standards and their impact on public health.
What You Get with The Course:
- Three months access to the virtual course
- PHTA CPI (Certified Pool & Spa Inspector) Workbook
CEUs: 4
Course Fee: $50/member and $99/non-member.
Designed for new or junior Retail Associates, this course will teach the fundamentals of Retail sales and service for pool and spa dealers. Upon completion, the student will have an understanding of residential pool operations, maintenance, chemistry, and safety. They will understand proper sales techniques and customer service as well as how to maintain an organized and functional Retail environment.
Target Audience: Individuals new to the pool and spa Retail environment.
How You Will Benefit:
- Advance your career and earn the in-demand skills employers want.
- Earn 8 CEUs.
What You Get with The Course:
- Eight weeks access to the virtual course
- PHTA Service Technician Manual
- CST (Certified Service Technician) Workbook
Course Fee: $199/member and $299/non-member.
Learning Objectives: Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:
- Demonstrate a sound knowledge of proper customer relations and communication and have the ability to carry out tasks in an organized manner.
- Understand proper housekeeping and store layout in the Retail environment.
- Understand the basics of how a pool functions and the types of pools common in the residential market.
- Demonstrate a clear understanding of Retail sales techniques, identify clients’ needs, and distinguish between benefits and features.
- Explain basic functions and maintenance requirements to customers/clients.
- Recognize the importance of a safe Retail environment and learn to identify potential hazards and how to eliminate them.
- Understand the importance of proper water chemistry and identify the key components of water balance and sanitation.
- Explain to customers/clients the aspects and importance of properly maintained water.
- Identify the key parameters needed to accurately treat pool or spa water and provide instructions to clients on water treatment.
- Recognize key elements pertaining to a safe backyard and be able to list the potential hazards.
Course Outline:
Basic Pool Operations
- Types of Pools
- Circulation
- Filtration
- Heating
- Maintenance
- Sanitizers
- Cleaning
Basic Pool Water Chemistry
- Water Balance
- Sanitation
- Oxidation
Water Testing Procedures
- Water lab maintenance
- How to obtain complete information from client
- Proper testing procedures
- How to analyze results and advise in a Clear, Concise, and Complete manner
Backyard Safety
- Drowning Prevention
- Chemical Handling and Storage
- Electrical Hazards
- Proper Pool Enclosures
- Proper Use of Pool Equipment (diving boards, etc.)
Customer Service
- How to effectively greet customers
- Email and telephone etiquette
- Disgruntled customer – how to handle
- How to properly handle a return
- How to handle multiple customers
Retail Sales Techniques
- How to listen to discover needs
- How to query for needs and desires
- Suggestive selling
- Benefits and features
- Basic merchandising and housekeeping
- How to review a water test with customers
- How to present products to customers
- Good Responses vs. Poor Responses
Safety in a Retail Environment
- Chemicals
- Compatibility (merchandising and storage)
- Parking Lot Maintenance
- Fork Lifts
- Stack Outs
- Proper disposal of trash or chemicals
Construction Courses
As water vessels' evolution becomes more complex, finish material choices, such as tile, are evolving as well. Although smaller tiles are still in vogue, we now find ourselves dealing with units ranging from 12" to 48" and beyond. While many have adjusted their installation methods for large format tile, we're still faced with challenges and complications. In this session, tile expert Greg Andrews will discuss installation challenges unique to large format tiles and adapt your installation system to overcome long term complications.
CEUs: 1
Instructor: Greg Andrews
Course Fee: $39/member and $79/non-member.
Learn the correct methods for creating the tremendous visual and functional applications of water-in-transit such as vanishing edges, deck-level slot overflows, and elevated perimeter overflows. Understand flow rate requirements and different edge details for creating various effects, and their relationship to edge tolerances and special conditions, establishing line-of-sight goals and project objectives. Presentation will also cover hydraulic system design criteria, catch basin dimensions, surge tank sizing, proper slopes, and air venting of gravity flow systems to enable efficient flow rates while minimizing noise.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify vanishing edges, slot-edges, gutters, deck-level pools, raised perimeter-overflow pools.
- Examine attached surge basins, detached surge basins, basin volume sizing rules-of-thumb, gravity lines.
- Review line-of-sight considerations, edge details, flow rates, and tolerances.
- Discuss aesthetic and functional considerations.
CEUs: 1.5
Instructor: Skip Phillips, SWD Master
Course Fee: $39/member and $79/non-member.
Presented at the 2021 GENESIS® Symposium, Kate Wiseman discusses with Skip Phillips how he established himself as a design leader within the pool and spa industry. They’ll examine influences of architectural styles and how to design with intention. Skip discusses his collaboration with world-class architect Helena Arahuete, Principal at Lautner and Associates, as well as some of his other iconic designs. Attendees will leave the class with a newfound perspective on design and our industry’s role.
Learning Objectives:
- Discuss unique projects.
- Examine Phillips' introduction into the pool and spa industry.
CEUs: 1
Instructors: Kate Wiseman, MLA, and Skip Phillips, SWD Master
Course Fee: $39/member and $79/non-member.
Design Courses
All tile vessels are truly works of art. Yet, tile vessels with intricate, patterned designs embedded within take the beautiful to exquisite. As the industry advances, offering unique and challenging designs elevate you and your customers. But have you considered how that design comes from thought to fruition? During this course, you'll hear from tile experts Greg Andrews and Amy Denny on how a simple pattern can turn into your own piece of a Sistine Chapel.
Learning Objectives:
- Discuss how a design concept is developed.
- Identify the questions to ask your customers.
- Define the proper techniques to execute the tile design.
Instructors:
- Greg Andrews
- Amy Denny
Course Fee: $39/member and $79/non-member.
Do you wonder what motivates your client's tastes? Are you answering leads for clients who are willing to spend significant money for a new look? These questions can be answered with a solid understanding of outdoor trends. During this session, Kate Wiseman will provide you insight into current outdoor trends, from colors and materials to furniture and layout. This is a must-attend session for anyone directly working with clientele and product selection.
Learning Objectives:
- Review past outdoor trends.
- Examine upcoming trends and colors.
- Review current influences and how those affect your client's desires.
Instructor: Kate Wiseman, MLA
Course Fee: $39/member and $79/non-member.
Composing the scene to be enjoyed as a whole, by night as well as day, is the key to exceptionally designed environments. This was recorded for the 2021 GENESIS® Symposium.
Learning Objectives:
- Discover and prepare for surprising fixture locations.
- Recognize ways to prioritize elements within your "canvas."
- Describe details on illumination.
Course Fee: $39/member and $79/non-member.
Does it ever seem like your customers' requests are coming from outer space? Are you looking for your crystal ball? Conceptualizing what your client wants and what you can provide can be a challenge. During this session, Kate Wiseman will walk you through her method to "read your client's mind." With some tips, tricks, questions, and observations, Kate will show you how to better understand your client's needs, minimizing misunderstandings and ultimately resulting in a smoother project.
Learning Objectives:
- Examine outside influences affecting your customers needs.
- Define questions to ask to ensure you have the information you need.
- Discuss methods of how to better understand your customers.
Instructor: Kate Wiseman, MLA
Course Fee: $39/member and $79/non-member.
Maintaining employees, ensuring you provide a quality product, managing customers, and running a business is difficult, especially during such a transitional year as 2020. However, it can also stall your creativity. To keep you motivated, we'll hear from multiple influencers on how they stay driven and inspired to develop iconic commercial and residential projects. This session was recorded at the 2021 GENESIS® Symposium.
Learning Objectives:
- Discuss how to stay inspired.
- Discuss tips and tricks on finding new ideas.
- Elevate your comfort zone.
Course Fee: $39/member and $79/non-member.
Engineering Courses
Hydraulic engineering cannot be explained in 4 hours and neither can proper plumbing methods. However, this program provides a good start by providing an overview of the design and engineering process as well as a good list of best practices for everything from layout to assembly to pressure testing. It is not a prerequisite for E101, E211, or E311, but it does combine some elements of all three programs to provide an excellent introduction to pool hydraulics and plumbing.
CEUs: 1.5
Course Fee: $39/member and $79/non-member.
In the field, the correct do’s and don’ts of a project are the difference between a properly built vessel and a failure that equates to wasted time and money. This program breaks down the engineering portions of a project with a checklist detailed from years of in-the-field experience. From plans and soils reporting to waterproofing and compressive strengths, students will leave with high-level information to easily relay these tips to your team.
CEUs: 1
Course Fee: $39/member and $79/non-member.
Pool Operator Courses
In 2019, the CMAHC assembled two new Ad Hoc Committees to address an emerging trend in aquatic venue design—public aquatic venues that mimic natural bodies of water. The Artificial Swimming Lagoon and Surf Venue Ad Hoc Committees were convened to study how the design, construction, operation, and management of these novel and extremely large aquatic venues could prevent illness and injury and propose change requests accordingly. This presentation will summarize the change requests; highlight proposed design, construction, operation, and management recommendations that differ greatly from recommendations for other aquatic venues; and provide the rationale for these differences.
Learning Objectives:
- Explain the MAHC as guidance for preventing illness and injuries related to recreational water activities.
- Examine the two recent CMAHC Ad Hoc committees and their proactive efforts to tackle emerging trends in aquatic venue design.
- Discuss how to submit Change Requests on Artificial Swimming Lagoons and Surf Venues for the 4th Edition MAHC.
Course Fee: $39/member and $79/non-member.
This presentation will provide you with overarching ideas to consider when reviewing pool construction plans for public health plan review. We hope to provide you with objectives you can utilize while working with designers and owners to build a useable and safe public pool/spa/wader.
Learning Objectives:
- Prepare the goals of a public health plan review.
- Discuss tips for working with designers and builders.
- Define objectives for designing a useful and usable pool/spa/wader.
Presenter: John Mason
Course Fee: $39/member and $79/non-member.
Indoor air quality (IAQ) in indoor pools is known to be affected by water quality, circulation of water in the pool, the design and operation of the HVAC system, and bather load. In this session, attendees will examine the project, review field experiments conducted to quantify IAQ dynamics in several indoor pool facilities, and discuss the mathematical model developed to simulate IAQ dynamics. Ernest Blatchley will explain how the model can be used to predict the effects of changes to system behavior, including changes to water treatment that affect water quality, as well as changes to HVAC system operation.
Learning Objectives:
- Examine factors that affect indoor air quality (IAQ) in pools.
- Identify the modeling approach to simulate IAQ dynamics.
- Discuss possible approaches to improve IAQ.
Presenter: Ernest R. (Chip) Blatchley III
Course Fee: $39/member and $79/non-member.
Indoor air quality is one of the biggest challenges facing indoor pools today. While there are numerous methods, technologies, and polices to help with air quality, none of them have proven to be the silver bullet. This session will review current trends impacting air quality, best practices to minimize poor air quality, and new technologies that improve air quality.
Learning Objectives:
- Discuss the chemistry behind the creation and destruction of combined chlorine.
- Identify the basic steps every swimmer should take to help improve air quality.
- Define what technologies are available to improve air quality.
Presenter: Kevin Post
Course Fee: $39/member and $79/non-member.
While the CDC states that COVID-19 cannot survive in a properly treated pool and hot tub, that does not mean that public aquatic venues do not provide an opportunity for the potential spread of COVID-19. Reopening any business or establishment in these times is not without some risk to staff and members/guests. This session will examine how to manage those risks during COVID-19 and how to implement changes, such as social distancing and regular cleaning and disinfection of frequently touched surfaces, for long-term venue management during these unprecedented times.
Learning Objectives:
- Review CDC, PHTA, and other guidelines being used for aquatic venues.
- Identify high areas of risk during COVID-19.
- Discuss successful aquatic venue management during COVID-19.
Presenter: Commander Joe Laco
Course Fee: $39/member and $79/non-member.
Outbreaks of recreational water illness readily fall into two categories: chlorine sensitive and chlorine resistant. Designing adequate management systems to prevent these illnesses requires understanding how each type occurs. The prevalence of these easily controlled RWIs and the reports of widespread closures during an inspection indicate a widespread systemic failure in management at many facilities. This presentation will focus on numerous practical considerations that can be implemented to reduce both the chlorine-sensitive and chlorine-resistant RWI outbreaks. This session was presented at the 2020 World Aquatic Health Conference by Dr. Roy Vore.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify the most common operating parameters leading to facility closure.
- Identify instances where each type of mismanaged parameter has resulted in RWI outbreaks.
- Describe how improved management practices can prevent RWI outbreaks.
CEUs: 1
Presenter:
Dr. Vore is a Senior Consultant with Vore and Associates, LLC., located in Suwanee, GA. Previously, Dr. Vore was the technology manager at BioLab, Inc. His work focused on the control of microbial growth in recreational water and household surfaces. Roy is a Certified Pool & Spa Operator, a member of the Education Committee, an active contributor to the Recreational Water Quality Committee, was a major contributor to the Disinfection Water Quality module of the Model Aquatic Health Code (the "MAHC"), and the lead author of NSPF's Recreational Water Illness handbook. Dr. Vore holds a Ph.D. in bacterial physiology, master's and bachelor’s in microbiology. Dr. Vore has over 90 scholarly papers and presentations on the selection and use of industrial biocides, biocide testing methodology, the microbiological of swimming pools and spas, and the governmental regulation of biocides.
Course Fee: $39/member and $79/non-member.
Now more than ever, organizations are looking for better ways to manage risk and ensure safety at their facilities. The last thing they want to worry about in the face of a public health crisis or potential litigation is whether their aquatic team has followed the proper procedures for documentation of safety requirements. Many organizations are turning to software applications for the digital management and documentation of maintenance issues, inspections, water chemistry, staff management, certifications, and training. In this session, we'll present how digital tools can be used to improve risk management and safety, in a cost-effective way.
Learning Objectives:
- Examine how digital documentation can help reduce the risks associated with aquatic operations and help ensure code compliance.
- Identify how digital tools can manage staff assignments, certification, and training to ensure safe operations.
- Discuss the cost-effectiveness of digital documentation, in improving risk and safety, using facility results and public data from sources including CDC.
Presenters:
- Rich DiMeo
- Kevin Post
Course Fee: $39/member and $79/non-member.
Safety Courses
Aquatic professionals handle and apply many chemicals as a fundamental part of their job. Chemicals are used to disinfect and balance the water, clean pool or circulation system parts, test the water, and treat problems. This interactive course reinforces how to recognize hazardous chemicals, understand factors that can impact risk, practice safer handling, understand steps to detect and protect from risk, and what to do when an accident occurs.
Course Fee: $39/member and $79/non-member.
Chlorine Safety training addresses topics such as recognizing the physical hazards of chlorine in the workplace; identifying the health hazards of chlorine exposure; identifing exposure controls to protect against chlorine hazards; and identifying how to respond to a chlorine spill or release.
Course Fee: $39/member and $79/non-member.
Potential hazards exist in confined spaces. This online course educates all general industry employees about the existence of confined spaces, the type of hazardous conditions that can be present in them, and the basic requirements for entry into permit-required confined spaces.
Course Fee: $19.95
Attorney Steve Getzoff will review, examine and provide expert legal advice on how to prevent and address harassment and discrimination. The course will analyze complying with wage and hour issues and discuss how to protect your customer base and trade secrets.
Course Fee: $39/member and $79/non-member.
Hazardous materials are defined as materials that could adversely affect the safety of the public, handlers, or carrier workers during transportation. The DOT Fundamentals of Hazardous Materials online course offers awareness-level knowledge for aquatic professionals that can help them save lives in high-risk work environments, particularly those that involve transporting hazardous materials.
Course Fee: $39/member and $79/non-member.
Oxidizers, corrosive chemicals, and irritants are hazardous chemicals commonly present in pool and spa disinfectants/sanitizers, filter cleaners, and other products. Aquatic professionals must establish clear standards for the safe handling of hazardous materials encountered in the pool environment to provide for the safety of themselves and their patrons.
Course Fee: $39/member and $79/non-member.
This online course prepares aquatic professionals to define a hazardous waste, recognize standards that regulate hazardous waste, and identify requirements of hazardous waste management.
Course Fee: $39/member and $79/non-member.
This online course creates awareness for aquatic professionals on heat stresses that can occur in the workplace, including what these stresses are, how to identify them, how they can affect a worker's health and safety, and how heat stress conditions can best be prevented.
Course Fee: $39/member and $79/non-member.
Pool and spa professionals are exposed to hazards which put them at risk from the top of their body to the bottom. They work on their feet and with their hands; some work is performed in confined spaces and some professionals may even weld, cut, or braze and need protection for that work. Protection for these hazards and more will be covered in seven PPE sections: Personal Protective Equipment Fundamentals, Eye and Face Protection, Foot Protection, Hand Protection, Head Protection, Hearing Protection, and Respiratory Protection.
Course Fee: $39/member and $79/non-member.
Ensuring the safety of bathers is essential for any public aquatic venue. Effectively promoting safety is necessary to achieve this goal. This session will discuss the role of effective operation management in promoting aquatic safety. Participants will understand the importance of the PHTA-2 Standard for Public Pool and Spa Operations and Maintenance and ANSI/APSP/ICC-11 American National Standard for Water Quality in Public Pools and Spas.
Learning Objectives:
- Define proper operational standards.
- Examine current best operational practices.
- Understand how operational standards promote bather safety.
Presenters:
- Dennis Berkshire
- Joseph P. Laurino, Ph.D., MBA
- John Mason
Course Fee: $39/member and $79/non-member.
We often see signs at swimming pools telling us to shower before entering the pool. But too often, this practice is ignored by swimmers, and rarely enforced by staff. With aging physical infrastructure and a high bather load, a swimming pool can be a toxic environment for pool users - from varsity swimmers to lifeguards. This session will review the facts about the link between showering, water quality, and air quality. Attendees will discuss a comprehensive educational campaign used by one facility to shift perspectives and get community buy-in. By getting swimmers to shower and, in turn, improving water and air quality, we can create a healthier environment for the whole community - from lifeguards, to swimmers, to spectators, to other staff.
Learning Objectives:
- Examine a stronger understanding of water chemistry.
- Discuss educating the public and stakeholders about showering.
- Approaching a problem from a multisectoral perspective.
- Recognize the fundamentals of health and safety of water and air quality.
Presenter: Mary F. Ostrowski, M.S.
Course Fee: $39/member and $79/non-member.
Over the last year, there has been a significant increase in the reports of Legionnaire's Disease due to exposure of bathers to Legionella bacteria at aquatic facilities. While deadly outbreaks of Legionnaire's Disease are not a daily headline, the actual occurrence of Legionnaire's Disease is widely known to be significantly under-recognized and under-reported. This presentation will educate the aquatics community on the basic biology of Legionella, examine the health effects and risks associated with Legionella, and define strategies that can be implemented to reduce Legionella exposure in hot tubs and swimming pools.
Learning Objectives:
- Examine the current status of Legionnaire's Disease in the aquatics industry.
- Discuss the unique biology of the Legionella bacteria.
- Identify health effects and risks of Legionnaire's Disease.
- Review issues with hot tubs and pools that can lead to Legionella exposure.
- Identify strategies to reduce exposure to Legionella and decrease the risk of Legionnaire's Disease.
Presenter: Vance D. Fiegel
Course Fee: $39/member and $79/non-member.
Technical Courses
In July 2021, new federal regulation for energy-efficient pool pumps goes into effect, and it will eliminate the poorest performing pool pumps from the market. Compared to other home energy items, pool pumps are often cited as the second-highest usage of home energy followed by heating and cooling systems. As many homeowners wish to save energy and reduce their energy expenses, purchasing energy-efficient products, including pool pumps, allows consumers to benefit from ENERGY STAR rebates and long-term energy savings. Attendees of this session will review information on the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) pool pump regulations and how to address this issue with their customers effectively.
Learning Objectives:
- Explain U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) pool pump regulations.
- Identify the types of pool pump designs that will be impacted by the new regulation.
- Discuss product ratings, ENERGY STAR, and how it affects other national and state standards.
- Communicate the benefits of energy-efficient pool pumps to how to peers and customers.
CEUs: 1
Presenters: Scott Petty and Jeff Farlow
Course Fee: $39/member and $79/non-member.
This on-demand, self-paced program is a comprehensive, interactive course that explains the 2018 International Swimming Pool & Spa Code (ISPSC) concentrating on all aspects of pool and spa design and construction. This course is designed to help builders and inspectors understand the many changes to pool construction including calculations of total dynamic head (TDH), SOFAs, barriers, and additional construction requirements. The course addresses the code regarding quality, safety, energy, and conservation per the ANSI/PHTA approved standards.
The course meets the needs for all industry-related professionals including architects, engineers, building inspectors, building officials, contractors, plans examiner, plumbing inspectors, and pool and spa installers. This on-demand ISPSC training offers the 6-hour training broken into a set of 4 prerecorded sessions that are available for you to take as time permits, 24/7.
This course was developed by PHTA and ICC and satisfies the eligibility for specific jurisdictional requirements to qualify as a 3rd party inspector. The course carries 6 hours of PHTA CEUs and 0.6 IACET CEUs.
Learning Objectives:
- Review code definitions
- Examine ICC/ASPS/ANSI Standards within the code
- Examine entrapment; TDH; sanitation; disposal; storage
- Review heaters, pumps, filtration
- Identify hydraulic design and data requirements for permit approval
- Calculate TDH
Course Fee: $159/member and $259/non-member*.
*Health Inspectors and Building Inspectors, please contact PHTA at education@phta.org to receive discounted pricing for your government entity.
The International Swimming Pool & Spa Code® (ISPSC®) establishes minimum requirements for plumbing systems using prescriptive and performance-related provisions. As the ISPSC has been adopted by many municipalities and local communities, having a general understanding is imperative. This session will discuss updates on the commercial provisions of ISPSC.
Learning Objectives:
- Review the ISPSC.
- List updates on the ISPSC Commercial Provisions.
- Discuss how to implement updates.
Presenter: Ken Gregory
Course Fee: $39/member and $79/non-member.
Swimming and other water-related activities provide ways for Americans to get the physical activity and recreation necessary for a healthy life. Each year, adults and children spend substantial time in pools, waterparks, splash pads, and hot tubs/spas. While most people have a safe and healthy time enjoying the water, these activities do come with some risks. During this presentation, the National Association of County and City Health Officials (NACCHO) will present the key findings from a joint study with the CDC, describing the process for pool code updates. We'll review the main barriers that prevent local jurisdictions from updating their pool codes, as well as the catalysts that promote changes. Participants will also hear about best practices from local health departments who are working to update and revise their pool codes based on the MAHC and what other national model codes are being utilized, such as the International Swimming Pool & Spa Code.
Learning Objectives:
- Examine the current status of local pool codes.
- Identify which local agencies use the Model Aquatic Health Code in their jurisdictions.
- Identify best practices in using the Model Aquatic Health Code as a guideline to update local jurisdictions pool.
Course Fee: $39/member and $79/non-member.
Water Quality Courses
Long after the pool is built and the excitement of this beautiful new addition to their home is completed, the client is left with one on-going issue: water quality. No matter how beautiful the water feature is, if the water quality is poor, the experience is greatly diminished. Learn how to improve water quality and prevent recreational water illnesses while simultaneously reducing the chlorine and pH chemicals in the water. Provide your client with the best possible water quality for a long-term satisfied customer.
Learning Objectives:
- Describe chlorine, ozone, and ultraviolet sterilization technologies for the watershaping industry.
- List facts and fallacies of alternative water purification technologies.
- Outline a strategy for properly sizing ozone generators, injectors, contact tanks, and other components.
- Discuss how to market, value, and sell advanced water treatment systems.
CEUs: 1
Course Fee: $39/member and $79/non-member.
Pool openings and the routine filling of swimming pools can be a surprise source of problems for pool operators service and start-up technicians. Source water composition can impact overall swimming pool chemistry and unexpected changes in source water can have large consequences on pool management strategies. This discussion will include the problems associated with using chloraminated water to fill pools, common problems encountered with fill water, such as high total dissolved solids (TDS) and metal concentration, and information on testing interferences.
Learning Objectives:
- Examine the different types of source water.
- Define how these sources are managed.
- Discuss what effects your source water can have on the operation of your pool - metals, chloramination, total dissolved solids, nitrates and phosphates, other factors.
- Explain how to test your pool water and how to overcome some common problems encountered when testing.
CEUs: 1
Course Fee: $39/member and $79/non-member.
In this online course, your staff will learn why safety audits are important, as well as how to actually plan and conduct a safety audit. This course will help managers, operators, and service professionals view the facilities they operate with a fresh eye focused on reducing risk. The course also teaches how to formulate corrective action, write audit reports, and conduct follow-ups to ensure the desired corrective actions are taken. Aquatic Facility Audits focuses on these core topics and the online format allows students to learn at their own pace.
Drowning, disease, and injury prevention start with an understanding of specific hazards. This interactive course will engage staff to retain and apply knowledge that will keep your facility safer and prevent pool closure. Purchase of this 2-hour online course includes a printable .pdf Resource Guide. Pre-printed resource guides are available for purchase. Successful completion earns a Record of Completion. CEUS are available.
Learning Objectives:
- Understanding the objectives and types of audits.
- Planning an audit.
- Inspecting the work area and work practices.
- Completing an audit report.
- Conducting audits around the pool, in the pool, in the pump room and storage areas, and in spa facilities.
- Auditing aquatic play features.
- Maintaining facility records, audit forms, and employee records.
- Managing on-site lifeguard operations audits and individual lifeguard skills testing checklists.
CEUs: 2
Course Fee: $50/member and $99/non-member.
Designed for those who operate, manage, or service an aquatic play feature, large or small, the goal of this course is to provide understanding on how to manage facilities with water features. The course focuses on the proper operation of these unique features, as well as risk reduction to the users, employees, and the facility itself. An illustrated, full-color handbook is included with the online course.
Learning Objectives:
- Define the different types of aquatic play features.
- Discuss how to maintain good water quality.
- Review unique staff and public management guidance.
CEUs: 2
Course Fee: $50/member and $99/non-member.
This course provides instruction on reducing injury and liability risk in and around facilities. Every business encounters risks, some of which are predictable and under management's control; others are unpredictable and uncontrollable. Risk management is a vital practice where tragedies—such as drowning, diving accidents, suction entrapment events, illness outbreaks, or other events—can destroy in a few moments what has taken years to build. Losses and liabilities such as these cause emotional pain and can cripple or bankrupt a business. An illustrated, color handbook is included with the online course.
Learning Objectives:
- Discuss the law and the aquatic professional.
- Review case studies.
- Define aquatic risk management.
- Define implementation of the risk management plan.
CEUs: 2
Course Fee: $50/member and $99/non-member.
This course shows staff how to minimize their exposure to bloodborne pathogens by addressing topics such as bloodborne pathogens that pose the most serious health threats; ways HIV, HBV, and HCV pathogens are transmitted; precautions to prevent exposure, key components of the Exposure Control Plan, and actions to take in case of exposure to bloodborne pathogens.
Course Fee: $39/member and $79/non-member.
Pool management is a significant contributor to optimal cost, compliance, and enjoyment in public swimming pools. In the absence of strict regulations, and greater insight into water quality, continuous improvement in pool management remains elusive to most pool managers and operators. However, swimmers bring microorganisms and organic substances voluntarily or involuntarily into the water, which can adversely affect pool water and air quality. The presentation will present pathways for proactively adopting additional water quality metrics to measure and improve outcomes. Case study data will compare other jurisdictions and present a rationale for improved management. Operational cost and energy savings could drive this approach forward until regulations become more integrated over time.
Learning Objectives
- Discuss swimmer and lifeguard comfort.
- Examine health concerns through air and water quality.
- Define process control optimization.
Presenters:
- Dr. Yamuna Vadasarukkai
- Ludo Feyen, MSc. Eur. Ing
Course Fee: $39/member and $79/non-member.
The number one priority that the pool industry can agree on is protecting our swimmers. Proper recreational water treatment and sanitation are critical to achieving this priority and requires an understanding of how to optimize the use of the tools and resources that we have. That includes staying apprised of the latest science, particularly as it relates to disinfection and efficacy to prevent recreational water illness (RWI) from various pathogens. Given that there are numerous considerations important for healthy recreational water management, understanding the critical aspects that impact proper disinfection as well as the premise for various best practices is key to practically and successfully minimizing the risk of RWI and keeping bathers healthy. This presentation will delve into multiple research lab studies as well as field trials in real pools to discuss practical considerations for optimizing biocide management, including new approaches to pathogens, as well as address common misconceptions that impact disinfection. Additionally, based on this literature review, this discussion will take an in-depth look at an alternate analysis for using a CYA to free chlorine ratio to reasonably minimize the risk of disease transmission for our bathers. There have been a number of recent presentations and publications in this area. Most people in the pool industry are aware of only some of these developments. This more recent examination will include factors that were not previously accounted for; these adjustments and enhancements to a model used to estimate risk affect the model's results and conclusions and, therefore, previous recommendations. Some other topics in this presentation include additional considerations aimed at healthier pools, such as secondary disinfection as well as non-biocidal methods that also improve water quality, such as filtration, flocculation, and the implementation of social science to impact bather hygiene.
Learning Objectives
- Establish practical control of pathogens in pools.
- Understand the impact of several operating parameters on sanitizer efficacy.
- Examine current trends towards improved pool operations.
Presenters:
- Tom Kuechler, Ph.D.
- Jenn Huang
Course Fee: $39/member and $79/non-member.
Cyanuric acid (CYA) has been a topic of debate since the introduction of chlorinated isocyanurates for recreational water treatment. With the work of the Chlorine Stabilizers Ad Hoc Committee, we now have a new tool for evaluating the chemistry and other factors that contribute to the risk of recreational water illness. However, we are still left with the judgment calls defining how much is too much CYA and how best to regulate its use. This presentation will review the current MAHC change requests in light of the data and assumptions that are used in the model from the Ad Hoc Committee, as well as the limitations of those data and assumptions.
Learning Objectives
- Examine existing data, and limitations of the existing data regarding cyanuric acid.
- Review the use and limitations of the model produced by the CMAHC Chlorine Stabilizers Ad Hoc Committee.
- Discuss risk management and factors that aid in determining what level of risk is acceptable.
- Analyze the uses and limitations of various approaches to regulating cyanuric acid and chlorine residuals.
Presenter: Ellen Meyer
Course Fee: FREE
From chemical and microbiological contamination resulting from both environmental and anthropogenic sources, several challenges are facing the pool operator. Microbial contamination in pools can range from nuisance, as in algae, to serious health risks in the form of pathogenic bacteria and parasites. Best practices to achieve clean and sanitary water have varied over the decades as a function of time, geographical location, and type of venue. These changes in practices have included assay methods, minimum disinfectant levels, changes in filtration type, turnover rates, and pathogens of concern. This presentation will consider examples from the scientific literature with an emphasis on practical learnings from real pools. Decades of interest from scientists and public health officials have provided us with valuable insights and case studies about when disinfection failures occur. This session was presented at the 2020 World Aquatic Health Conference by Jeffery Gaulding, Ph.D. and John Weber.
Learning Objectives:
- Examine proper pool disinfection.
- Review sanitation field studies.
CEUs: 1
Presenters:
Dr. Jeffrey Gaulding is a Senior Formulation Chemist with Biolab and received his Ph.D. in Chemistry from Georgia Tech and his B.S. from Emory University. During his doctoral work, he was awarded several fellowships, including being appointed to a National Institutes of Health training grant. He began his career in the pharmaceutical industry and has been working in the pool and spa industry for several years. Dr. Gaulding is also a Certified Pool & Spa Operator and recently joined the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance's Recreational Water Quality Committee.
John Weber is a Senior Formulation Chemist with Biolab and has been in the swimming pool and hot tub industry for more 23 years. He has served on the Recreational Water Quality Committee for the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance for many years and was involved in the creation of the ANSI Standard 11 for Water Quality in Commercial Pools and Spas. He has been involved in many articles, educational presentations, and publications and currently holds two patents. John is a Certified Pool Operator and has managed many pools in his years in the industry.
Course Fee: $39/member and $79/non-member.
New mathematical models have been developed to predict water quality based on bather load and filter performance. These models will provide insights into how much treatment is needed and what types of problems need to be avoided. This session will look at particle concentrations, UV absorbance, and pathogen levels in a pool or spray pad. Amburgey will review the potential of identifying and maintaining safe levels of each parameter based on the treatment systems chosen. The session will discuss the comparison of faster turnover rates to a better filter system in terms of Crypto removal by using existing research findings instead of conducting new research projects.
Learning Objectives
- Identify how bathers impact water quality.
- Calculate how filters or disinfection systems operate under varying bather loads.
- Examine how pools can be safer by using data to predict and avoid common problems.
Presenter: Dr. James Amburgey
Course Fee: $39/member and $79/non-member.
This online course provides a comprehensive and detailed background on the control of recreational water illnesses in treated aquatic facilities. Public health officials, pool operators, aquatic managers, service companies, and manufacturers will gain a comprehensive and detailed understanding about the control of recreational water illnesses and will be able to use this course to develop a robust recreational water illnesses control program that is tailored to their unique needs.
What You Get with The Course:
- Three months access to the virtual course
- PHTA RWI (Recreational Water Illnesses) Workbook
CEUs: 2
Course Fee: $50/member and $99/non-member.
