Accident Procedure
In the event of an accident at the pool or facility, it is crucial to follow the procedure below to ensure the safety and well-being of all swimmers, staff, and members. This procedure outlines the immediate actions to take, communication protocols, and the necessary reporting processes.
1 – Ensure the Safety of Everyone
- Immediate Action: The first priority is to ensure that all individuals, including swimmers, staff, and bystanders, are safe and away from further harm.
- If the incident involves a swimmer in the water, the lifeguard on duty should take charge of any necessary rescue or first-aid actions.
- Club officials, teachers, and coaches must assess the area and, if necessary, move individuals to a safe location.
- Calm the Situation: Keep everyone calm and prevent panic by providing clear instructions. Ensure that non-essential individuals (such as other swimmers) stay clear of the incident area.
2 – Inform Pool/Facility Staff
- Notification: Immediately inform the pool or facility staff about the accident. The facility staff are trained to handle emergencies and will assess the situation and take appropriate actions based on their established emergency plans.
- Facility Emergency Plans: Follow the directions provided by the pool or facility staff, as they will implement the necessary protocols (such as evacuating the pool area or calling emergency services).
- Swimmers, staff, and members will be directed by the facility’s staff to a safe area or assembly point if required.
- Role of Lifeguards: Lifeguards and facility staff will take over first-response duties, including administering first aid if needed and controlling the environment.
3 – Contact the Swimmer’s Parents/Guardians
- Immediate Contact: Coaches and teachers must ensure they carry the contact information for the parents or guardians of each swimmer.
- Call the Parents/Guardians: As soon as possible, the swimmer’s parents/guardians should be notified about the accident, regardless of the severity. Inform them of the situation and advise them to return to the facility if necessary.
- If the situation is critical, request that the parents head directly to the hospital (if the swimmer has been transported by ambulance) or another agreed-upon location.
4 – Complete an Accident Report
- Documentation: An accident report must be completed immediately after the situation is stabilized. This report should detail the following:
- Details of the Incident: Time, date, and exact location of the accident.
- Individuals Involved: Names of the injured party, witnesses, and first responders (including facility staff).
- Actions Taken: A description of the response actions, including any first aid administered and by whom.
- Circumstances: The cause of the accident (if known) and any contributing factors (such as equipment malfunction or environmental hazards).
5 – Record the Incident in the Club Accident/Incident Book
- Official Club Records: The incident must be recorded in the Club’s Accident/Incident books. This should be done through the Club Administrator to ensure the records are maintained in an organized and confidential manner.
- If the accident involves any child protection concerns or potential risks to child safety, the Club Welfare Officer must also be notified.
- Follow-up Actions: The Welfare Officer or Club Administrator may need to follow up with the involved individuals to ensure that appropriate support is provided and that there are no ongoing concerns.
6 – Notify the Club Insurer (if necessary)
- Insurance Notification: If the accident requires medical attention, involves serious injury, or poses potential liability, the club’s insurer must be informed.
- This notification will be handled by the Club Administrator or the Welfare Officer as appropriate.
- Insurance Details: Ensure that all relevant information (accident report, witness statements, and medical reports) is gathered before contacting the insurer to streamline the claims process.
Summary of Key Responsibilities:
- Club Officials/Coaches/Teachers: Ensure immediate safety, contact parents/guardians, and complete accident reports.
- Pool/Facility Staff: Handle emergency response, including first aid and emergency plans.
- Club Administrator: Record the incident and, if necessary, notify the insurer.
- Welfare Officer: If applicable, address any child protection concerns and ensure the welfare of those involved.
By following these steps, the club ensures the safety and well-being of all participants while maintaining clear records for future reference and liability management.
