As the regulations surrounding COVID-19 continue to change, it is important to stay up to date with recent events in the industry. With much of the country going into virtual lockdown, individual businesses are deciding how to proceed with various aspects of the pool and spa business ā construction, retail and service. AQUA will provide new information as it becomes available in this very fluid situation.
Last week, at the very last minute, the Western Pool and Spa show was cancelled. Officials of the show say they were unable to follow any other course ā legally forced to stay open until a sudden mandate from the Long Beach Health and Safety Department obliged them to close a short time before the doors were scheduled to open.
Anyone who prepaid for a seminar pass will automatically be registered for next yearās show at no cost. While these circumstances are unfortunate for organizers and participants alike, the leadership team of the WPSS recognizes that everyoneās health and safety is a top priority.
Concurrently with the Western Show, the Midwest Chapter of PHTA held its annual 5-day training event successfully and on schedule in Chicago, March 9-13, with a full slate of seminars, certification training and exhibitions. That one show was allowed to go forward and another forced to cancel underscores the uncertainty that marks this unusual moment in our profession.
For those uncertain about what the state of emergency means for the pool and spa industry outside of event cancellations, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provides preventive measures on their website. In an official guidance statement, the organization states:
āThere is no evidence that COVID-19 can be spread to humans through the use of pools and hot tubs. Proper operation, maintenance and disinfection (e.g., with chlorine and bromine) of pools and hot tubs should remove or inactivate the virus that causes COVID-19.ā
The Pool & Hot Tub Alliance offers further guidance on how to approach scenarios such as employment at this time. This includes working from home if possible, staying home if sick, implementing heightened hygiene and sanitation practices and creating a plan on what to do if the situation should become more serious.
For more information on how to protect yourself and others in both the industry and everyday life, look for updates provided by the CDC and the PHTA.
