How Do You Structure Lifeguard Pool Rotations?

QUESTION:

“What’s the best way to structure lifeguard breaks and pool rotations. We also manage a water park and I want to look at changing some things there too.”

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Answer 1:

I have seen 30 minute stands with one rotation. For a total of 1 hour on stand. Then a minimum of 30-minute break. Or a 3 x 20 minute stands, with a 20-minute break. I personally like the 30 x 2. The break gives the guards a good rest.

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Answer 2:

At one point we had 3 rotations of 6 stands with a 30-minute break. Based on some articles I've read, we're switching to rotations of no more than 4, 15-minute breaks, and 1 30 minute break to allow for mealtime.

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Answer 3:

We did (2) 20 minutes sits followed by a 20-minute “break”. So 40 up, 20 down. My team was very happy with it. The average shift length was 5.75 hours. On Sundays, it was an 8.75-hour shift and they got 40 up, 40 down. They also loved that.

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