§ Lord Lipseyasked Her Majesty's Government:
What regulatory cost assessment was carried out by the Health and Safety Commission before it 5WA propagated its new regulations for swimming pool lifeguarding; and what account the commission took of the impact of its proposals on swimming clubs. [HL3440]
§ Lord WhittyNo new regulations for swimming pool lifeguarding have been introduced by the Health and Safety Commission. The safety of workers and the public in swimming pools is protected under the provisions of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 and supporting legislation.
The Health and Safety Commission published guidance entitled Managing Health and Safety in Swimming Pools (HSG 179) in 1999 to describe good practice and help pool operators to comply with their duties under the legislation. It offers practical information to pool operators, including on lifeguarding. Following the guidance is not compulsory and organisations are free to take other action to comply with their statutory duties.