The Port Huon Sports Centre has moved into the modern age with the installation of a system for pulling the covers over its 25 metre swimming pool. A method for removing the covers had been previously addressed but putting the covers on was entirely manual.
At the end of each day staff members, usually only one, were required to manually pull each of the two sections of the thermal cover over the pool. The potential for back strain injury was identified by Huon Valley Councils’ Safety Committee Member, Rebecca Bell.
“The initial pulling of the covers causes the pool roller to unwind quickly, dumping a lot of the cover on the floor all at once,” Rebecca Bell said. “The covers must then be pulled from underneath the pile, which adds to the weight.”
A local company was approached to develop and construct a device to pull the heavy thermal pool covers over the pool taking account of electrical and manual handling issues. The solution to the problem is a portable 12 volt battery operated capstan winch.
It is set up on a trolley to facilitate its movement to each end of the pool and is stored safely away from the pool area. When in use, the winch is secured in position by a simple bolt location. Staff at the pool have welcomed the winch, which not only makes their job easier but also removes the risk of injury.
For further information contact Max Roberts, Risk and Safety Management Officer at the Huon Valley Council, on (03) 6264 8901.
