NRPA training program equips pool operators with mechanical, chemical, operations and risk management skills needed
ASHBURN, Va. – May 24, 2016 - Recent concerns surrounding the potential health hazards of public pools highlight the need for certified aquatic facility training programs that educate pool operators and managers on the skills needed to safely operate a public swimming pool. The National Recreation and Park Association’s (NRPA) Certified Aquatic Facility Operator (AFO) program, initiated in 1992, offers the mechanical, chemical, operations and risk management skills needed to ensure healthy, efficient, successful and vibrant aquatic facilities.
“Citizens rely on aquatic facilities to provide them with a sense of community, an advanced quality of life and opportunities to better their health,” said Julie Boland, VP of Membership and Certification, at NRPA. “The NRPA’s Certified Aquatic Facility Operators Program demonstrates a person’s commitment to providing their community with the highest level of service, putting health and safety first.”
Designed for pool operators and management staff in aquatic facility operation and management, the advanced, state-of-the-art AFO Certification is a two day, pool operator course that trains candidates on the mechanical, chemical, operations and risk management aspects of public and semi-public swimming pools. To date, there are roughly 8,000 Certified Aquatic Facility Operators in the U.S. All certified AFOs are required to renew their certification every five years to ensure they are knowledgeable of the current best practices in aquatic facility operation and management.
A leader in providing continuing education opportunities for park and recreation professionals, and community leaders alike, NRPA offers a variety of certification and education programs, including the NRPA Annual Conference, which will take place Oct. 5–8 in St. Louis.
To learn more about NRPA’s AFO program, visit www.nrpa.org/AFO.
To learn more about the NRPA, visit www.nrpa.org.
About The National Recreation and Park Association
The National Recreation and Park Association is a national not-for-profit organization dedicated to advancing park, recreation and conservation efforts that enhance quality of life for all people. Through its network of 50,000 recreation and park professionals and citizens, NRPA encourages the promotion of healthy and active lifestyles, conservation initiatives and equitable access to parks and public space. For more information, visit www.nrpa.org. For digital access to NRPA’s flagship publication, Parks & Recreation, visit www.parksandrecreation.org.
# # #
Media Contact:
Heather Williams
@NRPA_News