Pool Operator Training

ATTENTION

Public swimming pools were closed per Executive Order 20-04 on March 17, 2020, with the exception of therapy pools. Once the Executive Order restrictions are lifted, public pools will want to open for business as soon as possible.

The Food, Pools, and Lodging Services Section of the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) recognizes that several certification providers for training pool operators and lifeguards are not holding regularly scheduled courses due to COVID-19-related restrictions. As a result, availability of the required courses is limited.

Emergency Executive Order 20-32, issued on April 8, 2020, allows the Commissioner of Health to temporarily delay, waive, or modify Minnesota Rules, Chapter 4717, which governs the requirements for public swimming pools. This modification applies to those individuals whose certification as trained pool operator or lifeguard expires between the effective date of the peacetime emergency (March 13, 2020) declared in Executive Order 20-01 and until 30 days after the termination of the peacetime emergency.

Trained Pool Operator

This modification is effective March 13, 2020, as long as the following conditions are met:

1. For individuals who are currently certified, obtain the renewal certification within 6 months of the expiration.
2. For individuals not currently certified, obtain the credential within 2 months of opening the pool.

Lifeguard

This modification is effective March 13, 2020. Currently certified lifeguards must obtain their renewal certification within 6 months of expiration.