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New Candidates
Every candidate, prior to commencement of a National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ) course, must:

Be 16 years of age prior to commencing a course of training.
Must be able to meet the following basic fitness criteria:
  • *   Jump/dive into deep water
  • *   Swim 50 meters in less than 60 seconds
  • *   Swim 100 meters continuously on front and back
  • *   In deep water, tread water for at least30 seconds
  • *   Surface dive to the floor of the pool
  • *  Climb out unaided without ladder/steps and where the pool design permits
Once a candidate has met these criteria, they may start their course of training. Training and assessment for the National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ) is in two units.

Renewal Candidates

Renewal candidates may renew their qualification only within the period of validity of their existing qualification as stated on the insignia. Candidates may only renew the qualification when they hold the full National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ) i.e. both Units 1 and 2.

Candidates must meet the following on-going training criteria before being submitted for a renewal assessment:




 

* Provide written evidence of having completed a minimum 20 hours lifesaving, CPR, first aid and competency assessment in conjunction with the undertaking of lifeguard duties within the period of validity of the qualification

* Hold a current full National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ)(i.e. Units 1 and 2)

* Have access to a copy of “The Lifeguard”, available from Lifesavers Direct, which has been updated with the most recent updates.

* Where lifeguards undertake their activities as part of a club or other voluntary group, the same criteria must be applied in order to ensure a consistent standards within the constraints of their reduced responsibilities.