According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 3,960 fatal drownings happen every year. These drownings are often always unintentional.
The CPO certification is the most recognized and respected certification in the pool and spa industry. However, if you are operating a spa or a swimming pool, you might not know the benefits of being CPO certified. It might even be mandatory in your state.
If you’re interested in attaining your CPO certification, keep reading as we help demystify the process for you.
What is CPO Certification?
CPO certification is required for all pool and spa operators in the United States. It ensures that you are up to date on the latest safety protocols and procedures and helps to protect both your customers and your business.
CPO certification can provide you with the knowledge, skills, and techniques required for correct pool operations.
Do I Need CPO Certification?
While it certainly can’t hurt to be CPO certified, there are many who might not have the funds to get certified – if they don’t have to. So, who has to get their certification?
Anyone in these roles should be CPO certified:
- Owners, managers, routine maintenance (even if outsourced to a third party)
- On-site employees
- Lifeguards
And these types of facilities should have the appropriate number of staff certified in pool operations:
- Hotel, motel, apartment, and condominium pools
- Therapy pools
- Competition, park pools, and water parks
Regulations also differ by state, so it’s essential to check your state’s bylaws. The following states require pool and spa operator certification:
- Alaska
- Colorado
- Delaware
- District of Columbia
- Florida
- Georgia
- Idaho
- Iowa
- Maine
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Minnesota
- Montana
- Nebraska
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- New York
- North Carolina
- Oregon
- South Carolina
- Texas
- Utah
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming
This list might change over time so it’s essential to check your state’s local government websites to see whether you need to be CPO certified.
How Do I Get CPO Certification?
Getting a pool and spa operator certification is not that complicated and only requires a bit of time and dedication along with a small cost.
Most courses run over two days; however, comprehensive online CPO certification courses are becoming more mainstream and usually take place over one day (typically around ten hours).
What Does a CPO Course Cover?
CPO courses vary by provider, but they usually cover these standard topics:
- Pool & Spa Management
- Regulations & Guidelines
- Spa & Therapy Operations
- Chemical Testing & Chemical Feed & Control
- Water Balance
- Pool Water Contamination & Disinfection
- Pool & Spa Water Problems
- Facility Safety & Record Keeping
Once you have completed the course, whether online or in-person, you will be required to take an exam. Once you’ve passed, you will receive your CPO certificate in the mail. This certification is valid for five years.
The cheapest CPO certification online course costs $350 but can vary up to $375.
Get Your CPO Certification Online Today
Acquiring your CPO certification can significantly impact your business in several ways, one of which is creating a safer working environment for both employees and customers. It’s also achievable as you can easily complete your training in a single day, so there’s no excuse not to get certified.
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