Research Involvement and Updates
Research & Development
Evidence-Based Aquatic Excellence
We lead global scientific studies to redefine safety protocols and aquatic management through rigorous data and community-focused innovation.
Research Portfolio and Information Hub
The AOAP Research Portfolio & Information Hub is an initiative designed to support the aquatic community by compiling, sharing, and applying relevant research in drowning prevention, water safety, and aquatic operations. While valuable research is being conducted by universities, public health organizations, and industry experts, it is often not easily accessible or translated into practical applications for aquatic professionals, facility operators, and policymakers.
This initiative will serve as both an information-sharing network and a working committee, focused on ensuring that AOAP members have access to the latest studies, policy updates, and best practices in a way that supports their work. The Research Portfolio does not conduct new research but acts as a bridge between academic findings, industry applications, and legislative considerations.
The initiative will focus on four key objectives:
1. Curating and Disseminating Research – Compiling and summarizing relevant studies and policy updates for AOAP members in an accessible format.
2. Strengthening AOAP Programs and Training – Integrating research findings into AOAP certification programs, professional development resources, and best practices.
3. Building a Collaborative Research and Industry Network – Establishing partnerships with universities, policymakers, and aquatic professionals to facilitate knowledge-sharing and support applied research efforts.
4. Advancing Policy and Legislative Awareness – Tracking water safety legislation and regulatory updates, and providing members with clear, research-supported guidance on policy implications.
Purpose:
The Association of Aquatic Professionals (AOAP) is dedicated to advancing the aquatic industry through education, advocacy, and professional development. However, a significant gap remains between academic research, operational practice, and the lived experiences of families affected by drowning. While universities and research institutions conduct critical studies on drowning prevention, water safety, and legislative impacts, much of this knowledge does not effectively reach aquatic facility operators, policymakers, and frontline professionals who need it most.
Indoor Air Quality Study
AOAP is at the forefront of researching indoor air quality in aquatic facilities. Our ongoing studies focus on trihalomethanes and other disinfection byproducts, ensuring that the air professional lifesavers and swimmers breathe meets the highest health and safety protocols for a cleaner, safer aquatic environment.
Indoor Pools and Lightning Research Study
Study Overview
The AOAP is lead sponsor for a world-wide study about lightning safety and indoor pools. Lightning is a significant threat to aquatic facilities, and this research aims to establish scientifically-backed protocols that ensure the safety of swimmers and staff during atmospheric electrical activity.
Key Scientific Findings
Our studies investigate how electrical surges interact with aquatic plumbing, structural grounding, and pool chemistry. Initial findings help clarify the distance and conditions under which lightning strikes pose a direct risk to indoor aquatic environments, debunking common myths while reinforcing critical safety distance metrics.
Safety Protocol Implementation
Facilities can utilize our research-based guidelines to develop clear Emergency Action Plans (EAPs). These include specific 'Clear the Pool' triggers based on lightning distance and mandatory waiting periods to ensure that operations only resume when it is safe for the community.
AOAP Research Involvement
The Association of Aquatic Professionals is committed to advancing the field through targeted research and scientific studies. Our goal is to enhance safety protocols, improve facility management, and advocate for evidence-based policies in aquatic environments.
Additional Resources
New research reports and educational materials are published regularly here. Stay informed on the latest developments in aquatic management.