Southern Nevada Health District Update on Lifeguard Requirements
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
August 21, 2024
LAS VEGAS — In June, the Southern Nevada Health District issued an order upholding its decision to revoke a variance that allowed Las Vegas Athletic Club (LVAC) to monitor pool users via video camera in lieu of an in-person lifeguard. An important factor in the Health District’s decision was video showing an incident in February 2024 in which an LVAC customer died in one of its indoor pool facilities. At that time, the Health District gave LVAC 60 days’ notice that the revocation would go into effect on August 12, 2024.
LVAC subsequently filed an emergency motion to stop the revocation which was set to take effect on August 12. A hearing was held on July 11, and the court issued an order denying LVAC’s request on July 23.
LVAC submitted a proposed lifeguard plan to the Health District on August 2. Health District staff responded to LVAC’s proposed plan on August 6, noting it did not meet the requirements of the regulations, including requirements related to lifeguard staffing levels, assignment of duties and certifications. Revised versions of LVAC’s lifeguard staffing plans were submitted on August 9, and August 15, but could not be approved due to incomplete information. The Health District and LVAC are meeting this week to develop the final draft of the lifeguard staffing plan.
The Aquatic Facility Regulations applicable to LVAC were enacted by the Southern Nevada District Board of Health in 2018. While the variance allowing video surveillance in place of lifeguards was revoked due to the significant risks posed by non-compliance, the regulations have not been updated or revised since their initial enactment.
The Health District continues to work closely with all permitted facilities to ensure compliance with public health regulations and to safeguard the health and safety of the community.
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The Southern Nevada Health District serves as the local public health authority for Clark County, Boulder City, Henderson, Las Vegas, Mesquite and North Las Vegas. The agency safeguards the public health of the community’s residents and visitors through innovative programs, regulations, and initiatives focused on protecting and promoting their health and well-being. More information about the Health District, its programs, services, and the regulatory oversight it provides is available at www.SNHD.info. Follow the Health District on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.