Maria Bella, AFOIT, CPOI Aquatics & Drowning Expert

Professional Experience

Provide technical investigations, analysis, reports, and testimony towards the resolution of commercial and personal injury litigation involving athletic activities, sports facilities, coaching, staff training and oversight, and child supervision.

Provide technical analysis of aquatic feature design and construction methods to determine compliance with local code and industry standard of care. Specify equipment. Evaluate operation protocol and troubleshoot system failures. Determine proper positioning of lifeguards.

Provide aquatic consulting and training services to colleges and universities, municipalities, school districts, general contractors, and the hotel/motel industry. Review supervisory practices, operational protocol and maintenance procedures. Troubleshoot problems. Develop risk management strategies. Provide instruction and certification for staff including aquatic facility operators, pool technicians, and maintenance personnel

Trained instructors in child supervision, safety, and athlete development techniques. Created age and skill appropriate dryland and water-based exercises and activities. Provided tracking and evaluation programs for instructors and participants. Supervised patrons and staff. Provided risk management inspections and addressed hazards. Provided free swimming lessons to children in low-income households and educated families on drowning prevention strategies.

Provided training, risk management, and consultation services to swimming pool operators at institutional, municipal, and public recreational facilities that ranged in size from small indoor therapy pools to multi-attraction outdoor waterparks. Services provided to clients included operational safety evaluations, recreational water analyses, and system design/installation.

Inspected aquatic and recreation facilities and developed systems to increase safety. Trained company engineers in athletic facility operations including equipment selection, operation, and maintenance; chemical selection, storage and handling; hazard identification, evaluation and risk management processes. Provided ongoing education in recreational water illness prevention, suction entrapment protection, and staff development.

Developed, implemented, and oversaw operation and maintenance program for recreation areas including fitness center, swimming pool and hot tub, volleyball court and miniature golf. Specified, purchased and when necessary repaired associated equipment. Brought facility into compliance with all codes and the standard of care. Contributed to R&D of chemical feed system for high-use pools and developed ancillary chemical treatment process. Implemented advanced training for staff, including processes for crowd control and handling intoxicated patrons. Served on hotel safety committee. Served as Manager on Duty for hotel as requested.

Albright Aquatic Club; Barracuda Swim Team; Dynamic Aquatics, Inc.
USA Swimming Head Coach
Schuylkill Valley High School, Centaurus High School
Head Swim Coach

Coached all levels of competitive swimmers, from novice through elite athletes. Created systems that incorporated traditional race development, water exercise, and cross-training for athletes. Developed and oversaw weight-lifting and nutritional programs for participants. Introduced mental training skills. Selected, instructed and supervised assistant coaching staff. Worked as liaison between administration and parents' organizations. Supervised all team-related activities including marketing, fund raising, equipment purchase and maintenance, pool scheduling and operation of multiple athletic facilities. Served as editor of North Texas Swimming News. Organized competitions and coordinated meet administration.

Created start-up business responsible for final-clean on new and renovated commercial properties. Budgeted and bid all projects. Hired, trained, and supervised staff at multiple job sites. Purchased and maintained equipment. Expanded into general contractor duties including project development, sub-contractor scheduling and oversight, budgeting, cost-control, and risk management.

Coordinated and scheduled all pool-related activities. Trained childcare staff in swimmer supervision. Water Safety Instructor. Lifeguard. Maintained swimming pool enclosure and associated equipment.

Responsible for all aspects of swimming pool operation. Coordinated and scheduled all pool related activities. Hired, trained, and supervised aquatic staff. Instituted new budget and financial control procedures. Developed maintenance program for pool, enclosure, and grounds. Oversaw chemical treatment and monitoring of pool water sanitation levels. Initiated infant and toddler learn-to-swim program. Introduced adult water exercise program. Advised on all other swimming instruction from beginner through competitive swimmer. Devised child supervision program. As swim team coach, trained competitive swimmers; oversaw all team activities; recruited participants; organized swim meets; planned budgeting, fund raising, and promotional activities; instituted and provided oversight on risk management procedures.

Professional Credentials

• National Association of Amusement Ride Safety Officials
  • Certified Amusement Ride Safety Inspector
  • Operations Certification
• National Recreation & Park Association
  • Aquatic Facility Operator
  • Aquatic Facility Operator Instructor
  • Aquatic Facility Operator Instructor Trainer
• National Swimming Pool Foundation
  • Certified Pool Operator
  • Certified Pool Operator Instructor
• Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture
  • Certified Pesticide Applicator, Category 24
  • Pesticide Applicator Instructor, Core and Category 24
  • Amusement Ride General Qualified Inspector
• SCUBA Schools International
  • Certified Master Diver
  • Specialty training:
    • Deep diving
    • Drysuit diving
    • Navigation Night and Limited Visibility
    • Stress & Rescue
    • Waves, Tides, and Currents
    • Wreck diving

Past Certifications

• American Red Cross
  • Administering Emergency Oxygen Instructor
  • Bloodborne Pathogens Training Instructor
  • First Aid/CPR/AED Instructor
  • Lifeguard Instructor
  • Shallow Water Attendant Instructor
  • Water Safety Instructor
• Department of Transportation
  • Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
• National Recreation and Park Association
  • Certified Playground Safety Inspector
• United States Water Fitness Association
  • Water Fitness Instructor Trainer
  • National Water Fitness Master Instructor
  • National Water Fitness Program Coordinator

Education and Training

• HarvardX
  • Fundamentals of Neuroscience
• U.S. Technical Training Center
  • Water Slide Inspection Guidelines
• West Virginia University
  • Forensic Photography
• University of Wisconsin – Madison
  • Fundamentals of Natatorium Design
• Keiser University
  • Aquatic Engineering
• University of Colorado
  • Pre-medicine
• American Red Cross
  • Lifeguard Instructor
  • Lifeguard Management
• Department of Transportation
  • Emergency Medical Technician
• National Recreation and Park Association
  • Aquatic Facility Operator
  • National Aquatics Management School
  • National Playground Safety Institute
• National Swimming Pool Foundation
  • Certified Pool Operator
  • Incident Investigation
• CDC & CMAHC Webinar: COVID-19 and Aquatics (5/19/20)
• World Aquatic Health Conference, 2005-2008, 2010, 2012-2017, 2019
  • Advanced Filtration Science:
    • Understanding the Mechanisms of Swimming Pool Filters
    • Pre-coat Filtration: Benefits & Disadvantages of Filtering with DE & Perlite
    • Sand Filtration: Using Coagulants to Improve Pathogen Removal
    • Pool Filtration Innovations: Hybrid Filters, Ceramic Media, & the Future
  • Aqua-Activity: A Pathway to Health and Function
  • Aquatic Attractions Management—Slides, Waves, Rivers, and Play Structures
  • Aquatic Facility Design and Risk Reduction
  • Aquatic Health Benefits and Therapy
  • Better Indoor Air: MAHC as a Vehicle for Change; Air Quality Ad Hoc Committee Update
  • Chlorine Dioxide as a Potential Disinfectant for Emergency Response to Suspected Cryptosporidium Contamination
  • CMAHC Conference 2020 Listening Post: Plans for 2020 CMAHC Conference, Change Request (CR) Process Changes, Submitted CR Summary, New CR Ideas & Suggestions
  • Communicating Pool Chemical-Safety Messages: A Public/Private Partnership
  • CPR and AED use in Aquatic Environments
  • Designing for Operational Success: Health & Safety are #1
  • Disinfection & Water Quality – Model Aquatic Health Code Recommendations & Rationale
  • Disinfection By-Products
  • Distracted Lifeguards: Reducing Distractions to Improve Lifeguard Readiness
  • Drowning Prevention and Lifeguarding
  • Effect of Cyanuric Acid on the Inactivation of Cryptosporidium parvum under Hyperchlorination Conditions
  • Enhanced Filtration to Cope with Oocysts
  • Filtration & Circulation – Model Aquatic Health Code Recommendations & Rationale
  • The Good, The Bad, & The Volatile: Can We Have Both Healthy Pools & Healthy People
  • Impact of Different Treatment Processes on Concentrations of DBPs and Their Precursors
  • Industrial New Technology
  • International Conference on Swimming Pool & Spa, Rome 2013: Key Advances in Disinfection ByProducts and Microbiology
  • International Conference on Swimming Pool & Spa, Rome 2013: Key Advances in Science & Regulations
  • Investigating Chlorine Dioxide as an Alternative for Inactivating Cryptosporidium in Aquatic Venues that Use Stabilized Chlorine
  • Juvenile Obesity: Program Creation for Successful Aquatic Intervention
  • Key Messages from the World Conference on Drowning Prevention
  • Legionella Spp. Test with a Multi-Parameter Photometer
  • Mobile Inflatable Water Attractions
  • Model Aquatic Health Code: Planning for Continual Renewal and Research Needs
  • Model Swimming Pool, Spa and Hot Tub Code Provisions - Working to Mitigate Drowning, Injuries & Illnesses
  • National Aquatic Facility Inspection Surveillance System Data on Immediate Closures and Violations—Unlocking the Potential Power of Aquatic Inspection Data
  • Neuroscience for Brain-Friendly Communication
  • Neuroscience of Leadership
  • Operator Training – Model Aquatic Health Code Recommendations and Rationale
  • Outbreak of Gastrointestinal Illness Among Patrons and Employees of a Water Park Following a Backflow Prevention Error—Colorado, 2018
  • Preventing Chemical Release at Commercial Aquatic Facilities
  • Preventing Drowning & Other Injuries: Top Ten Model Aquatic Health Code Provisions
  • Preventing Outbreaks & Other Illnesses: Top Ten Model Aquatic Health Code Provisions
  • Recreational Water Illness and Injury Prevention – Lessons Learned
  • Recreational Water Illness (RWI) Advanced Chemistry: Advanced Chemistry and its Impact on Disinfection
  • Reducing Trihalomethane and Chloramines in Pools
  • Relationship Between Organic Load, Disinfection Byproducts, and Sphagnum Moss
  • Rescue Statistics for the Waterpark Environment
  • Running Pools Safely on Low Free Chlorine Residuals (DIN)
  • The Science behind Advanced Oxidation Processes (AOPs) and their Applicability in Aquatics
  • The Science behind the MAHC: Safety Topics
  • The Science behind the MAHC: Circulation, Ventilation and Air Quality
  • The Science behind the MAHC: Disinfection, Operations & Maintenance
  • The Science behind the MAHC: Hygiene & Regulatory Program Administration
  • Solving Poor Indoor Air Quality, High Operating Costs, and Limited Capital for Weyerhaueser King County Aquatics Center
  • Swiftly Moving: Float Tank Standards & Regulations
  • Team Approach: Creating an Effective Partnership between Building Departments & Environmental Health
  • Understanding the Importance of Biofilm in Recreational Water
  • Using Electronic Meters in Swimming Pool Inspections and Posting Scores
  • WAHC Public Health Code Track – Adoption, Renewal, Research
• Association of Aquatic Professionals Conference 2020, 2021
  • Auditing 201
  • Drowning Prevention: Real Stories & Tips for Your Facility & Guard Trainings
  • Forgotten Victim: Lifeguards and Critical Incident Stress
  • High Performance Drowning Response
  • How to Implement AAP & CDC Water Safety Guidelines
  • How to Lose a 21 Million Dollar Lawsuit
  • Incorporating National Standards into Daily Operations
  • Latest on High Performance Drowning Response
  • Protecting Swimmers from Drowning Using the MAHC
  • Sometimes You Look But Don’t See – Internal & External Audits
  • Tapping Into Video Footage to Train Your Lifeguards
  • The Dangers of Shallow Water
  • Training Outside the Box
  • Where Have all the Lifeguards Gone? Recruiting and Retention - Do’s & Dont’s Learned from the Road
• National Association of County & City Health Officials
  • Floatation Tanks: A Review and Discussion of MAHC Requirements
• National Drowning Prevention Alliance Symposium 2010-2013, 2017- 2018, 2019, 2021
  • Asking the Right Questions: The Final Step in Managing Aquatic Risk
  • Aquatic Legal and Risk Management Symposium
  • Autism – Drawn to Water
  • Barriers to Barriers: Ecological Psychology & Layers of Protection
  • CDC New Drowning Prevention Initiative
  • CPSC Pool Safely
  • Don’t let tragedy be your teacher
  • Drowning in the Autism Community
  • Drowning medical response
  • Drowning Risk Panel—Prevention of Incidents, and Litigation Perceptions and Reality
  • Drowning “social and behavioral issues”
  • How to Create a Drowning Prevention Task Force in Your Area Immunization for Drowning Prevention—The Public Health Approach to Save Lives in Asia and the USA
  • In the Air Tonight – The Physiology of Drowning
  • ISPSC panel discussion
  • Legislation: A Case for Change/Hannah's Foundation
  • Let’s start treating kids like little adults: A paradigm shift in pediatrics
  • Medical Aspects of Drowning
  • Pediatric Resuscitation—Time to ACT!
  • Righting the ship: Proper usage of drowning terminology
  • Risks Involving Bodies of Water and the Legal System
  • Scientific Benefits of Early Swim Lessons for Babies, Water SMART Babies Prescription Plan
  • Surveillance in the Age of Lifeguard Shortages
  • Technology Panel Discussion
  • Technology to End Childhood Drowning
  • Technology to Prevent Drowning: Interacting with Innovation
  • Unaccounted for variables—realities of offshore rescue and survival
  • Understanding & Preventing Liability—Safety Programming
  • Update on Lifeguard Training in the United States
  • Water Safety & Drowning Prevention Legislation
  • What Child Death Review Teams Can Tell Us about Drownings
  • Your Eyes Could Change Everything
• Aquatic Legal & Risk Management Symposium 2017, 2018
• Northeast Pool & Spa Expo, 2000, 2005, 2012
  • Certified Diving Board Installer
  • Pool Popping & Floating Liners
• Amusement Industry Manufacturers & Suppliers International/International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions, 2009, 2011
  • Advanced Hydraulics
  • Aquatic Incident Investigation
  • Amusement Industry Best Practices, Roundtable Discussion
  • Amusement Ride Device and Inspection Program Development
  • ASTM F-24, Standards update
  • ASTM F-77-06a, Operations
  • Attraction Inspection
  • Basic Safe Waterpark Operations
  • Codes, Standards and Inflatable Product Suppliers
  • Confined Space Safety
  • Developing Daily Inspection Programs
  • Documenting Inspections Accurately
  • Does Adding Water Attractions Make Sense for Family Entertainment Centers (FEC’s)?
  • Dynamic Ride Forces
  • Engineering in the Amusement Industry
  • Foam Padding & Restraints
  • Hot Topics and Industry Trends in Aquatics
  • Human Engineering – Intro and Advanced
  • Inspection Beyond the Steel
  • Inspections of an Aquatic Facility
  • Legal Roundtable
  • Lifeguard Consideration and Aquatic Facility Safety Concerns
  • Managing Safe Behaviors in Aquatic Facilities
  • Managing Safe Behaviors in Operators
  • Managing Critical Incidents
  • Measurement Basics
  • National Aquatic Industry Standards and Best Practices
  • Operations Supervisory—Advanced
  • OSHA – Lockout, Tagout
  • OSHA Top 10 Violations
  • Pneumatics
  • Standard Operating Procedures for Aquatics
  • Structuring a Waterpark Audit
  • Tips and Techniques for Inflatable Ride Inspections
  • Waterpark
  • Water Quality and Air Quality
• National Association of Amusement Ride Safety Officials
  • Ride Safety Inspection Forum, 2007-2009; 2011, 2014, 2016, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2022, 2023
    • Accelerometer Data
    • Accessibility
    • Aerial Adventure Inspections
    • Arc-flash Safety
    • ASTM F2376, F2461, F3133 
    • ASTM F-24 Updates
    • ASTM F2974 Auditing/Inspection Standard
    • ASTM F770
    • ASTM Project Update
    • Attraction Documentation
    • Best Practices for Incident Response & Investigation
    • Best Practices Round Table
    • Blood Borne Pathogens
    • Braking Systems
    • Bulletins
    • Bungee Trampoline Devices
    • Challenge Courses
    • Changes to ASTM Standards
    • Components/Inspection Points
    • Comprehensive Evaluation
    • Corrosion Analysis
    • Developing Effective Training
    • Documentation
    • Documenting a Quality Insurance Program for the Auditor
    • Documenting the Facts
    • EAPs, Ride Evacuation & Weather
    • Effective Training Programs
    • Electric Control Systems
    • Electrical & Control System Troubleshooting
    • Facility Inspections
    • Fasteners
    • FEC Inspections
    • Flumes & Raft Rides
    • Flumes/Rafts/Wave Pools
    • Forensic Assessment
    • Grounding & Bonding
    • Guest Behavior
    • Guest Focused Round Table
    • How to Inspect/Audit to ASTM Standards
    • Human Factors
    • Hydraulic Schematic Reading
    • Hydraulic System Maintenance & Oil Sampling
    • Incident Investigation
    • Inflatable Device Operation & Inspection
    • Inspecting Generators-Portable Distribution
    • Inspection Points
    • Inspection Techniques/Incident Investigations
    • Inspections/Audits
    • Inspector Communications
    • Leadership Development
    • Magnetics and How They Have Changed the Industry
    • Meeting New Inspection Challenges
    • NFPA 70/NFPA 101
    • NFPA Life Safety Code
    • Ongoing Training
    • Operational Audits
    • Operational Case Studies
    • Operational Design Considerations & Signage
    • Operational Documentation
    • Operational Trends
    • OSHA Compliance
    • OSHA Hazard Communication
    • OSHA Personal Safety Fall Arrest
    • Overview of the Model Aquatic Health Code
    • Patron Containment
    • Pennsylvania Updates
    • Pneumatics/Pressure Vessels
    • Problem Riders
    • Pump Room Inspections
    • Raft and Conveyor Inspections
    • Record Retention
    • Review of NEC 525
    • Ride Evacuation
    • Ride Training
    • Rigging Inspections
    • Risk Management
    • Safety Critical
    • Safety First – Culture of Safety
    • Safety Restraints
    • Signage
    • SOP Writing
    • Specialty Risk Insurance Inspections
    • The Hospitality Mentality
    • Understanding Accelerometer Data
    • Understanding ASTM F24 Standards
    • Waterparks
    • Waterslide & Features Inspections
    • Wave Pool Inspections
    • Wave Pool/Stationary Wave Inspections
    • Weather—Understanding What We Are Seeing
    • Weld Inspections
    • Who’s Watching the Guards?
• Safe Inflatable Operators Training Organization
  • Basic Inflatable Safety Operations
  • Advanced Inflatable Safety Operations
• Pennsylvania Amusement Ride Safety Seminar, 2008-2009, 2011-2012, 2015-2017
  • ACCT Challenge Courses and Zip Line Standards
  • ACCT Equipment for Challenge Course Zip Lines
  • ACCT Standards & ICE Program
  • Amusement Ride Inspections
  • ASTM F-24 Amusement Ride Standards
  • Best Practices for Zip Lines, Ropes Courses and Canopy Lines
  • Biomechanics of Amusement Rides
  • Bulletins and NDT Requirement Enforcement in Pennsylvania
  • Climbing Walls - Operations, Maintenance & Inspection
  • Crowd Control at Special Events
  • Daily Inspections
  • Documentation for Inflatable Amusement Rides
  • Effective Operation of Waterpark Attractions
  • Emergency Planning - Are You Ready?
  • Examination of Incident/Accidents and Steps to Immunize Trampoline Parks from Claims
  • Facility Inspections
  • Fasteners
  • ICC Code for Waterpark Signs
  • Inflatable Amusement Rides
  • Inflatable Devices from an Inspector's Perspective
  • Ins & Outs of Waterpark Pump Rooms and Sanitation
  • Inspection of Challenge Course & Canopy/Zip Lines
  • Inspection of Inflatable Amusement Rides
  • Inspection Reporting System for Pennsylvania Amusement Ride Inspectors
  • Inspector/Employee at Height
  • Life Cycle and Troubleshooting Waterslides
  • Litigation & Risk
  • Lock Out/Tag Out for Amusement Rides
  • Looks Good, Looks Bad/Sounds Good, Sounds Bad
  • Maintenance of Waterslides and Interactive Aquatic Equipment
  • Managing Waterpark Risk
  • Metal Fatigue, Corrosion & Rust
  • New Jersey Carnival & Amusement Rides Safety Act Update
  • New Jersey Recognized Certified Maintenance Technician (RCMT)
  • New Jersey Amusement Ride Regulation & Enforcement
  • Online Training Programs for Owners, Operators & Customers
  • Overview of Risk Management for Trampoline Parks
  • Patrons Perspective of Amusement Ride Safety
  • Pneumatics
  • Post Incident Investigations
  • Pennsylvania Amusement Ride Inspection Act & Inspector Qualifications
  • Pennsylvania’s Approval Process
  • Post Incident Investigations: Reconstruction, Litigation Assistance, Expert Witness, Technical Support
  • Proper Setup of Tents and Portable Structures
  • Role of U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission
  • Safe Hydraulics & Industrial Power
  • Safety Netting - Amusement Industry Applications
  • Suspicious Activity Reporting, Use of Social Media & Active Shooter
  • Suspicious Activity, Social Media and the Fusion Center (PACIC)
  • Trampoline Parks Roundtable
  • Uncommon Problems Discovered During Regulatory Reviews
  • Water Quality & Sanitation for Waterparks & Amusement Rides
  • Weather's Impact on Outdoor Events
  • What Will Inspectors Look for at Your Waterpark
• Entrapment Education Seminar, Accredited Education Program provided by the Association of Pool and Spa Professionals, Penn-Jersey Chapter, 2006
• Design Tips for Detention Ponds presented by GAE Engineering, 2006
• World Waterpark Resorts Leadership Development Conference, 2006-2007
• The Main Attraction: Transforming Your Community Pool with the Waterpark Model, 2018
• International Pool & Spa Expo, 2004, 2006, 2010, 2014
  • Genesis 3 – Construction 251: Commercial Pools & Waterparks
  • Engineering 201: State-of-the-Art Spa Details
  • Designing and Installing Portable Spas
  • Water Features
  • Pool Shell Structural Failures – Case Studies Selecting proper main drain and pump
  • Diagnosing hydraulic issues
  • Selecting energy-efficient equipment
• United States Water Fitness Association Clinic, 2004, 2006
• National Recreation and Park Association Aquatic Conference, 2001, 2004, 2007
• Eastern States Coaches Conference, 1995, 1997, 1999
• Unites States Swimming Coaches Clinic, 1986-1997
• American Swim Coaches Association Educational Program, 1988-1997
• Department of Justice
  • Accessible Pools: Means of Entry and Exit, Existing Pools under Title II of the ADA, 2012
• Pennsylvania Department of Health Emergency Medical Services
  • Advance Shock Treatment
  • Airway Management/Heart Failure/Defibrillation
  • Assessment and Treatment of Submersion Injuries
  • BLS Statewide Protocol Update, 2015
  • Child Abuse: An EMS Professional’s Role and Responsibilities
  • Demystifying the Central Line
  • Emergency Care for Lightning Strike Victims
  • Excited Delirium
  • Fetal Trauma from Motor Vehicle Collisions
  • High Frequency CPR, Bringing Science to the Pit Crew
  • Management of C-Spine Injuries during Athletic Events
  • Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA)
  • Pain Management
  • Patient Assessment
  • Pediatric Fluid Resuscitation & Airway Management
  • Recognition and Treatment of Heat Emergencies
  • Unstable Pelvic Fractures
• Designing with Water: Indoor Water Applications Make a New Wave in Architecture
• Servers and Managers Alcohol Responsibility Training (S.M.A.R.T.) Certified

Professional Memberships

• ASTM International
• National Association of Amusement Ride Safety Officials
• National Drowning Prevention Alliance
• National Recreation & Park Association
• Northeast Spa & Pool Association
• Pool & Hot Tub Alliance

Professional Committees

• ASTM International Technical Committee
  • Co-Chair Focused Task Group - ASTM Computer Vision Based Drowning Detection Systems/Residential Pools
  • F24 – Amusement Rides and Devices
  • F24.60 – Special Rides/Attractions
  • F24.70 – Water Related Amusement Rides and Devices
  • WK56745 – Design, Manufacture, Operations, Maintenance and Use of Air Captured Inflatable Devices in an Aquatic Commercial Environment
• Association of Pool and Spa Professionals/International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials
  • APSP/IAPMO-17 Safety Vacuum Release Systems, Automatic Pump Shut-Off Systems, and Vacuum Limiting Systems for Swimming Pools, Spas, Wading Pools, Hot Tubs, and Catch Pools
• Association of Pool and Spa Professionals
  • ANSI Standards Technical Committee
  • ANSI/APSP-7 Suction Entrapment Avoidance in Swimming Pools, Wading Pools, Spas, Hot Tubs and Catch Basins Technical Committee
  • Builder’s Manual Technical Committee
• Centers for Disease Control
  • Model Aquatic Health Code Risk Management/Safety Technical Committee
• Council for the Model Aquatic Health Code
• International Code Council
  • International Swimming Pool and Spa Code
    • Drafting Committee
    • 2013 Committee Action Hearing Group B Codes
• International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials
  • Uniform Swimming Pool, Spa & Hot Tub Code Technical Committee - Special Expert
• National Recreation and Park Association
  • Aquatic Facility Operator Manual—Invited Contributor
  • Aquatic Facility Operator Training—Curriculum Committee
  • Splashpad Advisory Panel
  • Subject Matter Expert—AFO Job Analysis and Item Writing Group
  • Subject Matter Expert—Splash Pad Curriculum Committee
• Pool and Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA) Technical Committee
• Professional Pool Operators of America
  • Executive Board Member
• United States Water Fitness Association
  • Editor – Instructor Training Manual, Understanding the Mature Participant

Speaking Engagements

• 36th Annual NAARSO Safety Seminar, 2023
  • Water Quality 101
• Aqua Conscience Webinar, 2022
  • Set Your Lifeguards Up for Success!
• Association of Aquatic Professionals Virtual Conference, 2021
  • When & Why Drownings Occur with Lifeguards on Duty
• National Drowning Prevention Alliance webinar (5/13/20)
  • Drownings in Pools with Lifeguards on Duty: Why Submerged Victims Go Unnoticed
• POOLaide webinar (5/11/20)
  • Drownings in Pools with Lifeguards on Duty: Why Submerged Victims Go Unnoticed
• National Water Safety Conference (4/9/20)
  • Management’s Role - Equipping Lifeguards for Success
• Association of Aquatic Professionals Conference, Frisco, TX, 2020 When & Why Drownings Occur with Lifeguards on Duty
• World Aquatic Health Conference, Williamsburg, VA, 2019, Drownings in Pools with Lifeguards on Duty: Why Submerged Victims Go Unnoticed
• National Association of Amusement Ride Safety Officials, Myrtle Beach, SC, 2019, 2020, Water Quality for the Ride Inspector
• National Drowning Prevention Alliance Symposium, New Orleans, LA, 2019, Drownings in Pools with Lifeguards on Duty: Why Submerged Victims Go Unnoticed
• National Recreation and Park Association Inaugural Aquatics Learning Series Webinar, 2019, Drownings in Pools with Lifeguards on Duty: Why Submerged Victims Go Unnoticed
• Arizona Paralegal Association Annual Legal Conference, Phoenix, AZ, 2018, Water Safe? Liability Associated with Residential and Commercial Swimming Pools
• Pennsylvania Amusement Ride Safety Seminar, Harrisburg, PA, 2018, Drownings in Pools with Lifeguards on Duty: Why Submerged Victims Go Unnoticed
• National Recreation and Park Association Conference, New Orleans, LA, 2017, Drownings in Pools with Lifeguards on Duty: Why Submerged Victims Go Unnoticed
• World Aquatic Health Conference, Broomfield, CO, 2017, Drownings in Pools with Lifeguards on Duty: Why Submerged Victims Go Unnoticed
• National Drowning Prevention Alliance Symposium, Pittsburgh, PA, 2017, Drownings in Pools with Lifeguards on Duty: Why Submerged Victims Go Unnoticed
• Defense Research Institute, Chicago, IL 2017, Litigating Swimming Pool and Aquatic Attraction Claims: Make it Safe to go in the Water
• New York State Bar Association Torts, Insurance and Compensation Law, Annapolis, MD, 2013, Safety on and in the Water
• Delaware Recreation and Parks Society 33rd Annual Conference, Rehoboth Beach, DE, 2013
  • Aquatic Facility Standards: MAHC-ANSI-ICC and You
  • Risk Management: Protecting You, Your Facility, and Your Bottom Line
• National Recreation and Park Association, Ashburn, VA, 2013, Aquatic Facility Operator Training
• Pennsylvania Recreation and Park Society Conference, Seven Springs, PA, 2012
  • The Model Aquatic Health Code, ANSI Standards, International Swimming Pool and Spa Code and YOU
  • Risk Management--Protecting You, Your Facility, and the Bottom Line
• International Pool Spa Patio Expo & Conference, Las Vegas, NV, 2011, Selling Safety: Safer Pools/Spas = More Pools/Spas
• National Drowning Prevention Alliance, Colorado Springs, CO, 2011, How New Barrier Codes Can Help You Effect Change
• National Drowning Prevention Alliance, Phoenix, AZ, 2011,Pool & Spa Safety Technician Pilot Training
• Hospitality Law Conference, Houston, TX, 2011, Managing Risk in Pools, Spas, and Workout Facilities
• Workers Injury Law & Advocacy Group, Annual Conference, Aventura, FL 2010, Aquatics Exposure
• Parks and Carnival Education Seminar, Lancaster, PA, 2008 & 2009, Water Quality for Waterparks
• National Intramural-Recreation Sports Association Conference, Baltimore, MD, 2009, Aquatic Facility Operator Training
• National Association of Amusement Ride Safety Officials Conference, Pigeon Forge, TN, 2009, Recreational Water Quality & Disease Transmission Prevention
• Lorman Education Services, Cherry Hill, NJ. 2009; Scranton, PA, 2008; Building Codes for Aquatic Facilities.
• Parks and Carnival Education Seminar, Altoona, PA, 2008, Water Quality for Waterparks
• Sioux Falls Parks & Recreation Organization, Sioux Falls, SD, 2008, Lifeguard Awareness Workshop
• Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, Wilkes-Barre, PA, 2008-2017; Reading, PA, 2007-2017, Hershey, PA 2011-2018
  • Pesticide Applicator Training
• National Swimming Pool Foundation, Wilkes-Barre, PA, 2008-2017; Reading, PA 2007-2018, Hershey, PA 2012-2018
  • Certified Pool Operator Training
• The American Association for Justice, Chicago, IL, 2007, Water Hazards at Resort Waterparks
• Athletic Business Conference and Expo, Orlando, FL, 2004, Aquatic Facility Operator Training

Patents

10329785 Lifeguard Positioning System

9828784 Lifeguard Positioning System and Submersible Devices for Use Therewith

9727979 Lifeguard Positioning System and Method

Sports and Recreation Experience

• As Subject Matter Expert for the National Recreation & Park Association, developed Aquatic Facility Operator Job Analysis & Certification Exam.
• Served on design and evaluation committees tasked with new construction and renovation of buildings and grounds used for sports and recreation activities.
• Served on oversight committees during new construction and renovation of buildings and grounds used for sports and recreation activities.
• Pre-inspected, bid, organized and managed crews, provided safety training and oversight, and performed final inspection on post-renovation and construction of commercial facilities.
• Developed, initiated, and monitored dynamic programmatic content for sports and recreation activities.
• Inspected sports and recreation facilities for safety, including proper equipment selection, equipment placement and operation, equipment and facility maintenance, warning signage selection and placement.
• Designed facility specific warning signage.
• Developed and implemented Emergency Evacuation procedures for sports and recreation facilities.
• Directed various event planning, patron safety, and staff management teams.
• Actively participated in planning, operations, and oversight committees for recreation, athletic, and nonathletic events.
• Inspected facilities and made safety recommendations.
• Inspected fitness equipment. Removed dangerous equipment from service until repair or replacement could be completed.
• Specified equipment to be purchased for facilities.
• Established guidelines and enforced compliance with proper fitness facility layout to provide for safe traffic flow and unobstructed use of equipment.
• Identified and eliminated hazardous conditions in recreation and non-recreation facilities.
• Recruited, hired, fired, and trained employees.

Risk Management Experience

• Inspected facilities and resolved or removed hazards.
• Reviewed and revised safety procedures used at conferences, recreation, and sporting events. Trained and provided oversight and evaluation of employees who were implementing safety procedures.
• Developed Emergency Response training programs for large group functions. Trained and evaluated employees in proper application of Emergency Response procedures and protocol.
• Trained and evaluated employees in Emergency Evacuation procedures and protocol.
• Created documentation program for tracking employee training and development, facility safety and sanitation, and equipment inspections and maintenance.
• Worked with Health Departments, Departments of Agriculture, and Fire Marshalls to develop and implement proper chemical storage, use, handling and disposal procedures.
• Led teams responsible for event planning, patron safety, and staff management.
• Trained Advanced First Aid personnel in emergency response and triage procedures.
• Provided employee and patron training in proper and safe use of fitness equipment.
• Trained waterpark resort operators in specialized field of aquatic operation and hospitality guest satisfaction standards.
• Trained operators of aquatic facilities in traditional venues.
• Instructed private pool owners on proper safety procedures.
• Repaired and maintained mechanical operating systems.
• Replaced, repaired, and maintained chemical operating systems.

Coaching Experience

• Created, implemented, and evaluated cross-training programs for competitive athletes.
• Constructed and evaluated nutritional programs for competitive athletes.
• Taught strength training programs to recreational and competitive athletes.
• Provided Personal Training instruction and fitness and technique evaluations for recreational and competitive athletes.
• Designed and instructed self-defense classes for women and children.
• Created motivation and tracking programs for participants in sports and recreation activities.
• Professionally coached competitive sports.
• Trained professional coaches of recreational and competitive athletes.
• Played on numerous teams and engaged in various sports competitions and recreational activities on land and in water.

Child Supervision Experience

• Developed, implemented, and evaluated supervision programs for children at daycare centers.
• Instructed daycare staff in child safety measures including oversight of indoor and outdoor recreational activities.
• Created, taught, and evaluated age and skill appropriate activity programs for children.
• Devised and taught programs used to enhance awareness, creativity, and self-esteem in children and young adults.
• Originated and instructed mentoring program for parents of children involved in recreational and competitive activities.
• Planned, organized, and ran recreational and competitive sporting events for children.

Diver Training Experience

• Performed all responsibilities as Head Coach of high school swimming and diving teams, and USA swimming teams.
• Instructed participants on proper entry into pool from deck level, starting blocks, diving boards, and elevated platforms.
• Taught proper body position during dives and steering technique designed to prevent injury when entering water head first.
• Developed and coordinated physical and mental/psychological training.
• Tracked, evaluated and augmented athlete progression.
• Interfaced with state and local authorities and boards of directors to ensure proper training in a safe environment.

Water Quality and Disease Transmission Prevention Experience

• Performed all related responsibilities as instructor of Aquatic Facility Operator, Certified Pool Operator, and Pesticide Applicator Training programs.
• Taught courses to commercial swimming pool operators at municipalities, universities, colleges, public and private schools, YMCAs, hotel/motel and condominium/apartment complexes.
• Instructed private pool owners on proper operating procedures.
• Taught proper sanitation methods, water testing and balance, chemical treatment options, and proper dosing procedures to prevent disease transmission.
• Provided troubleshooting of water quality and mechanical problems.
• Taught plant operations, safety and risk management procedures.
• Resolved indoor air quality problems.
• Instructed pool operators on automation, system design considerations, and alternative sources of disinfection.
• Developed disease prevention programs for swimming pools, changing rooms and first aid stations.
• Interfaced with city officials, state/local authorities, and various boards of directors on water quality issues and facility safety.

v. 03/29/23