Issue

Freestyle lane tumble turns banned from Council run swimming pool for health and safety reasons

Panel opinion

Whilst there can be risks to the swimmer and others from tumble turns, incidents are not common. The decision as to whether or not to allow the practice should be based on a number of factors including pool depth and configuration; number, abilities and demographic of swimmers involved; and other pool activities and supervision issues. In this instance it appears the operator has considered these factors, though it may have been helpful if they had explained more fully the rationale for banning their use during the public sessions in question.