Preparing for a Safe Return to Operations - Swim Ontario
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Preparing for a Safe Return to Operations
Updates
November 26
1. Updated Return to Swimming and racing Ontario Level Infographic
2. Club Temporary Training Registration Form
3. IMPORTANT DECEMBER DATES
4. EQUIPMENT UPDATE - IMPORTANT REMINDERS FOR TRAINING SAFETY
5. FAQ ADDITIONS
6. Return to Club Operations Safely – version 11
7. Return to Swimming Stage 3 Framework
November 13 - Return to Swimming and Racing Memo Nov 13
1. Swimming Canada’s Return to Swimming Resource version 3
2. Multi-Swimmer Single Lane swimming – Club Training – joint document between Swimming
Canada and Lifesaving Society of Canada
o Multi-swimmer Single Lane Swimming Scenarios for Ontario
3. New Return to Swimming and Racing Ontario Level infographic
4. New Transmission of COVID-19 infographic
November 4
1. Return to Racing Safety Plan template
2. Return to Officiating - Participant Safety
November 3
1. Resilient Communities Fund
October 29 - Return to Swimming and Racing Memo Oct 29
1. Stage 1 racing resumes for Ontario Stage 3 clubs
2. Progression to single lane swimming for Ontario Stage 3 clubs
3. Racing pause for modified Stage 2 continues
October 9 – Return to Swimming Message from Swim Ontario
1. Progression to next Stage on pause
2. Stage 1 Racing on pause
October 7 – Updates to Return to Swimming Stage 3 and Return to Racing Memo
1. On and Off deck dryland activities requirements
2. Screening and Positive Test protocols updates
3. Revisions for plans updated procedures
4. Return to Racing – Stage 1 updates
September 15 (Appendix B)
1. Swim Ontario Return to Racing Memo
2. Swim Ontario Return to Racing Framework
3. Swim Ontario Best Practices for Clubs and Officials in the Return to Racing
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Preparing for a Safe Return to Operations
August 20 – Swim Ontario Stage 3 Return to Pool Swimming Framework
1. Allowable Framework for clubs engaged in approved pool activities
2. Gradual and Calculated Return to Training Framework for pool activities beginning in fall
3. Updates for RTS plans
4. Stage 3 & 2020-21 season updates to the document
5. FAQ updates
July 23 – Return to Swimming Fall Plans, template and FAQ updates
July 14 – Swimming Canada’s Return to Swimming Resource version 2 on the Swimming Canada
COVID-19 hub webpage
July 7 – Swim Ontario Return to Training Memo addresses following topics
1. Requirements for a Return to Training Plans
2. FAQ
3. When do clubs submit their Return to Training Plan to Swim Ontario Flow Charts
June 19 – Swim Ontario Return to Operations Memo addresses following topics
1. Facilities allowing more swimmers per lane than the guidelines for Step 1 indicated in the
Swimming Canada’s Return to Swimming Framework document.
2. Acknowledgement of Risk and Attestation Forms - new procedures
June 11 - Swim Ontario/Swimming Canada requirements for a safe return to Operations
Communication
With the release of the Swimming Canada’s Return to Swimming Documents (version 3) and as
Ontario prepares for a gradual re-opening of facilities throughout the province, Swim Ontario has
identified some key guidelines as clubs prepare for a Return to Sport (June 19 – see Prepare for Re-
Opening of Facilities). It is more important than ever that Club Boards and Club owners exercise
careful oversight over the implementation of these guidelines. These guidelines include, but are not
limited to risk assessment, safety protocols for athlete and staff, facility dynamics and
communication between administration, staff and facilities. These guidelines also align with the
detailed information that will be published by the Swimming Canada Return to Swimming
Working Group.
Clubs should include all guidelines set out by government agencies, municipalities, facilities, the
Swimming Canada Working Group and Swim Ontario in any type of Return to Sport discussions,
planning or strategies to help assess preparedness for their clubs Return to Sport.
July 7 - Although each Region will be different, the Region of Peel has communicated to their pool
operators with some useful procedures / checklists. These documents are examples that can be
used when communicating with facility managers to better understand what a re-opening would
look like.
Pool operators’ information: Safety Guidelines for Water Recreational Facilities Reopening and a
Pool Operator Checklist.
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Preparing for a Safe Return to Operations
It is important to note that this document will evolve and that new information will be added as the
Government of Ontario, Municipalities, and Public Health Authorities and Swimming Canada provide
directives for the reopening of facilities, parks, lakes and a return to organized sporting activities.
Our philosophy continues to be, to progress slowly with purpose including periods of re-evaluation,
in order to do everything we can to continue to move forward.
Prepare for a Return to Sport
1. The following 6 questions will help assess risk to the organization as they prepare for a Return to
Sport.
a. Will the training be held in a region that has documented active local transmission of
COVID-19 (community spread) in the last 14 days?
b. Will the training be held in venues/facilities with access by multiple groups?
c. Will the group include team members relocating from areas outside the training
location that have documented active local transmission of COVID-19 (community
spread)?
d. Will the group include participants (athletes or coaches) at higher risk of severe COVID-
19 disease (e.g., people over 65 years of age or people with underlying health
conditions)?
e. Is the training considered at higher risk of spread for COVID-19 (where physical
distancing cannot be maintained, indirect contact through training equipment etc)?
f. Will the training be held indoors?
2. Create a Return to Sport (COVID-19) committee that reports to the Board of Directors who
have ultimate approval which includes the head coach, board members, admin staff, health
professional (if available), etc.
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Preparing for a Safe Return to Operations
3. Designate an individual(s) within that committee that will monitor the latest development
surrounding COVID-19 and communicate to the committee, board and staff.
4. Clubs should implement Return to Swimming guidelines and best practices set out in the
Swimming Canada’s Return to Swimming Documents (version 3).
5. Prepare a communication plan for swimmers and staff, if they or other participants feel unwell
or show signs of COVID-19 before, during and after training sessions. (Individual Self-Assessment
Tool)
6. Prepare a communication plan if a swimmer or staff have COVID-19 or have been in contact
with someone that has COVID-19.
7. Prepare a plan to modify, restrict, postpone or cancel the return to training or training sessions
related to the evolving COVID-19 outbreak.
8. Be prepared to update rules, best practices, plans and procedures as situations evolve.
9. June 11 – Complete the Club Declaration for COVID-19 return to programming and ensure
collection of executed individual Acknowledgement of Risk form and COVID-19 Attestation form
prior to allowing any coach, swimmer, support staff, employee, or volunteer into the facility or
to participate in any form of training (virtual, live, pool or open water etc.).
10. June 19 - As a reminder, each Swim Ontario member club must complete a Club Declaration
Online Form prior to the start of their next training session.
11. Both the Acknowledgment of Risk Form and Attestation Form must be completed before any
type of in person training is started. The Assumption of Risk form must also be completed for all
virtual training prior to commencing the next training session. Both forms need only be
completed once for each participant (coaches, athletes, staff, etc).
12. As of June 18, both forms are now available as online electronic signature forms and must be
completed using the links provided below. Once the participant completes the form and
electronically signs, the executed form will be sent to Swimming Canada, Swim Ontario and the
participant. The participant will be required to email the executed form to the club.
a. Acknowledgement and Assumption of Risk Online Form
b. COVID-19 Attestation and Agreement Online Form
13. July 7 - As part of our risk mitigation procedures, Swim Ontario would request that all clubs add
the following to their Communication Plans
a. Contact Swim Ontario if they have a participant that tests positive for COVID-19. Please
complete the Incident/Injury Report Online Form. You will be asked to provide the
following information: Gender, Age, Recent Training Activity (14 days)
b. A procedure for a replacement coach/cancellation of workout if a coach is unable to
answer NO to all screening questions before a scheduled workout.
14. August 20 - The Acknowledgement and Assumption of Risk and COVID-19 Attestation are
required as part of the registration process through the RTR. Please refer to the Affiliation and
Registration Guide for details http://www.swimontario.com/page.php?id=1847
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Preparing for a Safe Return to Operations
15. August 20 - Update on Attendance Records & Daily Self-Screening document collection: Swim
Ontario has been advised that the collection of daily attendance records and any self-screening
online forms or documents related to COVID, will need to be kept for at least 10 years.
Educate all the Staff (Admin & Coaches)
1. Ensure that your staff has been informed about the latest guidelines and directives on the
COVID-19 outbreak from Federal, Provincial, Municipal governments and their Public Health
authorities. Covid-19 Symptoms
2. Create “best practices” for the staff to follow before, during and after training to mitigate the
spread of COVID-19. These best practices must include respiratory etiquette (sneezing in elbow),
hand hygiene, physical distancing, cleaning of non-personal equipment in between use, non-
sharing of equipment (water bottles), etc. (Prevention of Risk)
3. Create “best practices” for the staff to follow when planning training gatherings, taking into
consideration potential family related isolation dynamics, potential travel restrictions and
gathering restrictions in the municipality/province.
4. Create an attendance mechanism for all training sessions for staff to strictly follow.
5. Create communication plans for staff to follow when interacting with athletes, families, support
teams and other key partners.
Educate the Families and Athletes
1. Create strict rules for athletes and staff surrounding staying home and self-isolation if displaying
symptoms or coming into contact with someone who is displaying symptoms or has COVID 19.
2. Athletes must be cleared by public health for training after being diagnosed or suspected to
have COVID-19.
3. Communicate clear training expectations and facility mandates as early and as often as possible
a. Athletes should stay home if they or any member of their family does not feel well.
b. Clubs and Coaches must make it clear that there is no penalty for missing practice.
4. Provide information on at-risk populations within the club to families and swimmers so they
may make an informed decision on their participation. (At Risk Populations)
5. Provide links to virtual healthcare resources in your area.
6. June 19 - Both the Acknowledgement of Risk Form and Attestation Form must be completed
before any type of in person training is started. The Assumption of Risk form must also be
completed for all virtual training prior to commencing the next training session. Both forms
need only be completed once for each participant (coaches, athletes, staff, etc).
7. As of June 18, both forms are now available as online electronic signature forms and must be
completed using the links provided below. Once the participant completes the form and
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Preparing for a Safe Return to Operations
electronically signs, the executed form will be sent to Swimming Canada, Swim Ontario and the
participant. The participant will be required to email the executed form to the club.
8. August 20 - The Acknowledgement and Assumption of Risk and COVID-19 Attestation are
required as part of the registration process through the RTR. Please refer to the Affiliation and
Registration Guide for details http://www.swimontario.com/page.php?id=1847
Best Practices: Daily Training Environment (example)
1. Implement facility directives around arriving and leaving training sessions “Arrive-Train-Depart”
2. Swimmers must follow facility and club directives around the mitigation of Covid-19. (Prevention
of Risk)
3. Follow facility directives around the limiting of unnecessary social gatherings (before & after
training sessions)
4. Be aware and communicate all traffic and movement plans as well as area closures within your
facilities.
5. Athletes must wear swimsuits or dryland clothing to training sessions as change areas may be
off limits.
6. Provide clear directives on how to manage the training equipment before, during and after all
training sessions. There should be no sharing of any equipment such as water bottles, kick
boards, towels, paddles, snorkels, fins etc.
a. August 20 - Swim Ontario continues to recommend snorkels not be used.
b. Beginning Monday November 30th, 2020.
i. Equipment must not be shared between athletes
ii. Each participant is responsible to sanitize their personal equipment between
uses.
iii. All equipment must be facility-approved prior to use. (eg. snorkels etc.)
iv. Coaching tools - use must not promote group gatherings (eg. whiteboards, TV’s,
video)
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Preparing for a Safe Return to Operations
7. Minimize use of training environment equipment that compromise appropriate physical
distancing (white boards, on deck dryland items, video monitors or cameras, training chords
etc.)
8. Minimize use of communal facilities (e.g. change rooms, gym, court)
9. As facilities reopen their change rooms clubs must ensure protocols are in place for their use:
a. Restrict number of people allowed to maintain physical distancing and avoid socializing
b. Restrict time allowed to change (5-10 mins maximum) – no after workout showers
c. Locker / change room management to ensure physical distancing at all times
d. Masks must be worn at all times
10. July 7 - Allow a transition time of at least 10 - 15 mins between training groups in order to allow
proper sanitation of surfaces and proper physical distancing between these groups.
11. Create & develop Training Bubbles and Lane Bubbles to ensure that the same coaches and
athletes interact
12. When entering and exiting indoor facilities, non-medical masks must be worn to protect facility
staff and others.
13. Re-evaluation of the RTT plan in 3 weeks 1-2 weeks intervals, looking for adherence to physical
distancing protocols, safety protocols in place, communication plans and facility and Swim
Ontario regulations.
14. August 20 - Submission of your club’s Return to Swimming Plan to Swim Ontario must include a
detailed training schedule or framework (see Stage 3 framework).
a. All submissions must be received by August 21, 2020.
b. ALL clubs MUST continue to use an ARRIVE-TRAIN-DEPART model
c. All Training bubble integrity MUST be maintained
d. Plans MUST include a chart or table that includes training times, Coaches overseeing the
“training bubble” and identified 15 minute Transition times.
e. Plans MUST include any changes to existing facility protocols including possible/planned
change-room access, viewing gallery access, pool deck access for viewing and shared
public programming.
f. Plans for New or Additional facilities MUST be clearly identified and shown separately
from any existing facilities in the Return to Swimming plans (use appendix style for each
facility).
g. Training equipment protocols should be maintained.
Page 7 of 22 updated November 26, 2020
Preparing for a Safe Return to Operations
Prepare for Re-Opening of Facilities and a Return to Swimming
Swimming Canada’s Return to Swimming Documents (version 3)
Return to Swimming Resource Document FAQ
Tele Town Hall and Q&A
Stage 1
June 19 - Swim Ontario continues to work with our partners to clarify various Return to Swimming
procedures and requirements.
Swimming Canada has allowed Ontario to progress within the Return to Swimming procedures, to
allow for some facility flexibility provided local health authorities allow it.
Facilities will determine training participation requirements, bather load and number of swimmers
per lane based on a number of factors and consultation with local health authorities.
Swim Ontario recognizes the authority of the Local/Provincial health offices and is committed to
abiding by the regulation Ontario Regulation 263/20.
Swimming Canada has advised that Swim Ontario can proceed as follows:
1. Swim Ontario is guided by mitigating risks and as such is guided by the Ontario Emergency
Orders which outline the very important standards for a safe return to sport.
2. Swim Ontario recognizes the Swimming Canada Return to Swimming Framework and the need
to address the natural fluidity of change related to various regional re-opening phases and
stages.
3. Swim Ontario in consultation with Swimming Canada, has amended the first-step for
swimmer/lane ratios (pool training to be that of 4 swimmers per double lane-spaced
accordingly) and use an evaluation period of at least 3 weeks (provided that your individual
municipality and facility allow for the deviation from Swimming Canada’s return to Swimming
Plan).
4. If your facility has a different plan for greater swimmer/lane load than 4 swimmers per double
lane, please contact Swim Ontario for discussion and approval.
5. Swim Ontario recognizes non swimming activity (including dryland routines, pre & post
swimming routines) be done outside of the pool area in a safely managed manner following all
the risk mitigation guidelines. The pool and surrounding deck area is for pool use only limiting
contact surface areas to be sanitized.
Stage 2
Swim Ontario is looking for a safe and graduated upscaling of programming, within limits, after periods
of careful reflection and evaluation, which will primarily be based on the successful implementation of
physical distancing measures, as well as the safety and hygiene protocols outlined in your plan while
also adhering to the provincial/local authorities, Swimming Canada, and/or Swim Ontario requirements
of the day.
6 swimmers per double lane
Page 8 of 22 updated November 26, 2020Preparing for a Safe Return to Operations
Requirements:
• confirmation in an email from the facility that a club has successfully implemented their return
to swimming plan and,
• approval from Swim Ontario.
Stage 3 – see Appendix A
Based on clarification from the Government of Ontario with respect to Ontario Regulation 364/20
https://www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/200364 programs are required to maintain physical distancing
of at least 2m. No congregating at the end walls and maintaining an individual start/stop for swimmers
at various points in the lane is mandatory.
Pending completion of all 2020/2021 Club Affiliation Procedures and provided the club also has facility
approval
• Clubs/Groups: Engaged in Swim Ontario Existing Approved Pool Activities Plans
• Clubs/Groups: Yet to Start In-Pool Programming
Additional Resources
• Club Declaration for COVID-19 return to programming
• Individual Acknowledgement of Risk Form & COVID-19 Attestation Form
o Previous PDF documents have been replaced with a PDF with links to electronic online forms
• Resources for the workplace and guidelines: www.ontario.ca/covid and
https://www.ontario.ca/page/resources-prevent-covid-19-workplace
• PPE suppliers: www.ontario.ca/ppe
• Swim Ontario COVID-19 page
• Swimming Canada COVID-19 page
• Pool operators’ information:
o Safety Guidelines for Water Recreational Facilities Reopening
o Pool Operator Checklist.
Page 9 of 22 updated November 26, 2020Preparing for a Safe Return to Operations
Appendix A - Stage 3 Return to Pool Swimming Framework
For Clubs Engaged in Swim Ontario Existing Approved Pool Activities Plans
The following applies to all clubs/training groups that were approved for RTS pool training this summer.
Pending completion of all 2020/2021 Club Affiliation Procedures and provided the club also has facility
approval
Based on clarification from the Government of Ontario with respect to Ontario Regulation 364/20
https://www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/200364 programs are required to maintain physical distancing
of at least 2m. No congregating at the end walls and maintaining an individual start/stop for swimmers
at various points in the lane is mandatory.
Additional groups/coaches and clubs not yet engaged in pool activities MUST follow the procedures
outlined in “All Clubs/Groups Yet to Start In-Pool Programming (Click Here)”
Allowable framework for training groups that were approved for RTS pool training this summer
Beginning Facility Approval 4 to 8 swimmers per double lane
September 1 Required OR
1 to 4 swimmers in single lane in SCM
1 to 6 swimmers in single lane in LCM
Beginning Swim Ontario & Facility “On deck” activation or dryland activation
September 1 Approval Required protocols may be considered upon application
to Swim Ontario PRIOR to commencement
See October 7 updates
Completion and Submission of a Return to Swimming Plan is necessary by August 21
● ALL Current and NEW Return to Swimming information MUST be in one document.
● Clubs who have not received facility protocols or confirmed training times should submit a
Return to Swimming framework that identifies plans for a gradual return to training.
○ The framework will satisfy the affiliation requirements with the understanding that
revisions will be provided to Swim Ontario once facility start dates are known.
➢ Reference the Swim Ontario Return to Swimming Template if necessary
Page 10 of 22 updated November 26, 2020Preparing for a Safe Return to Operations
Appendix A - Stage 3 Return to Pool Swimming Framework
For All Clubs/Groups/Swimmers
Programs are required to maintain physical distancing of at least 2m at all times. No congregating at the
end walls and an individual start/stop for swimmers at various points in the lane is mandatory.
Completion and Submission of a Return to Swimming Plan.
● Submit your RTS Plan using Swim Ontario RTS Template by August 21, 2020 for approval.
● Clubs/Groups/swimmers that have not yet started in-pool training since March 2020 must
follow the Gradual and Calculated Return to Training Framework (see below).
● Equipment sharing is not allowed (personal equipment only)
○ Beginning Monday November 30th, 2020.
■ Equipment must not be shared between athletes
■ Each participant is responsible to sanitize their personal equipment between
uses.
■ All equipment must be facility-approved prior to use. (eg. snorkels etc.)
■ Coaching tools - use must not promote group gatherings (eg. whiteboards, TV’s,
video)
● As facilities reopen their change rooms clubs must ensure protocols are in place for their use:
○ Restrict number of people allowed to maintain physical distancing and avoid socializing
○ Restrict time allowed to change (5-10 mins maximum) – no after workout showers
○ Locker / change room management to ensure physical distancing at all times
○ Masks must be worn at all times
Gradual and Calculated Return to Training Framework
Weeks 1 - 2 Facility Approval Required Up to 4 swimmers per double lane
Weeks 3 - 4 Facility Approval Required Up to 6 swimmers per double lane
Week 5+ Swim Ontario and Facility Up to 8 swimmers per double lane
Approval Required OR
Up to 4 swimmers in single lane in SCM
Up to 6 swimmers in single lane in LCM
Swim Ontario Approval of Plan
● Plans will be approved by the Return to Swimming Committee
● Clubs will be notified of approval and will be asked to follow their approved plan for the
identified evaluation period.
Page 11 of 22 updated November 26, 2020Preparing for a Safe Return to Operations
Return to Swimming Plan revisions
As we move forward with Stage 3 Return to Swimming and the amendments presented here, Swim
Ontario is requesting the following procedure for the revisions to your Return to Swimming plan.
A Club will ensure all revisions to their plans are updated and once approved by the RTS committee and
Club Board is shared with the families and staff to ensure compliance. Swim Ontario approval of
changes is necessary under the following conditions:
● Single lane swimming transition (facility endorsement email/letter required)
● Additional Pool added to the training schedule
● Additional Group added to the training schedule
● Additional Coach added to the training schedule
● Indoor Dryland (off deck)
● On deck Activation (facility endorsement email/letter required)
Screening and Positive Test Protocols
Due to the rapidly changing guidelines from Public Health, Swim Ontario has created a screening and
Positive Test Protocol template that will be updated as new information is made available by public
health.
Screening is required for all participants (coaches, swimmers, officials and volunteers). There are
several ways to do the screening but Ontario regulations now require screening for all workplaces. That
means all Coaches, Staff and Volunteers must complete a screening procedure prior to attending any
Swim Ontario sanctioned event (practice, competition).
Participants are encouraged to self-screen prior to attending an activity by using an appropriate
screening procedure such as those commonly found on public health websites, or those made available
by their club. Facilities may also require additional screening procedures.
Click Screening and Positive test Protocols to view the updates.
We encourage clubs to review this information and update their Return to Swimming Plans if applicable.
Transition times between workouts
Based on feedback from facilities and clubs, Swim Ontario is prepared to reduce the transition time
between group training to 10 minutes provided the facility allows for a separate physical facility entry
and exit points. Transition times of 15 minutes remain for facilities that have the same entry/exit.
Masks
All participants are reminded that they are required to wear a mask at all times when inside the facility,
this includes the pool deck. Swimmers shall remove their mask just prior to entering the water to begin
their session and put them on immediately following the conclusion of their sessions.
Indoor Dryland (off-deck) Requirements
Indoor dryland activities away from the pool deck in a separate room/facility are permitted provided
public health regulations are followed, that 3m/4m physical distancing is maintained at all times,
Page 12 of 22 updated November 26, 2020Preparing for a Safe Return to Operations
equipment is cleaned before and after use and masks are worn at all times. A reminder that coaches
must directly supervise/coach activities at all times.
Swim Ontario approval for indoor dryland activities away from the pool deck areas requirements:
• Must be away from pool deck
• Detailed facility protocols about sanitization of the training spaces.
• Detailed traffic plan for the training bubbles to follow.
• Diagram of the training space to confirm appropriate space and layout of the training.
• Type of Activity making sure they are an Approved Activity
Activation (on-deck) Requirements
In light of the colder weather arriving and the importance of pre-pool activation, Swim Ontario is
prepared to allow on-deck activation (see list of allowable activities for activation) under the following
conditions:
• Facility approval/endorsement is mandatory (template endorsement)
• On-deck pre-pool activation must be part of the regular scheduled training permit, where
transition times shall remain in place.
• Maximum allowable length of time for an activation session is 15 minutes
• Pre-pool activation group numbers must not exceed the maximum training group size allowed in
pool by the facility.
• Masks must be worn at all times by all participants.
• 2m physical distancing must be maintained at all times.
o A pre-assigned space for each swimmer must be clearly marked (consider yoga mats)
• All activation activities shall only be permitted when there are no multi-group traffic flow issues.
Pre-pool activation cannot occur when:
o On deck space is also designated as a walk-through for other users.
o Other groups are entering/exiting the training space.
• All athletes have their own equipment. Absolutely no sharing of equipment.
o No medicine balls, or other equipment that promotes intense active movement.
• Equipment must be wiped down prior to and after use. Athletes to wipe their deck space with a
sanitizing wipe after the assigned session and discard in the trash bin.
• Coaches must directly supervise/coach activities at all times.
List of acceptable on deck “Activation” movements/activities:
● Arm/Leg Swings/rotations etc
● Stationary core work in designated spot
● TheraBand activities for shoulder stability (Injury prehab/rehab only )
● Towel/rope/band shoulder rotations
● Core stability
● No raising the core temperature or the heart rate (i.e. no skipping rope or jogging on the spot)
Page 13 of 22 updated November 26, 2020Preparing for a Safe Return to Operations
Parent Volunteers
Parent volunteers such as those doing screening off the pool deck are permitted provided they are
properly registered with Swim Ontario.
● Please register them as a “No Level” official, if they are not already a qualified official with your
club.
● This will also apply for anyone in a volunteer position for the Return to Racing protocols.
Facility Endorsement Email/letter template
As requested a template for facilities, cities or municipalities to follow for endorsement is provided.
Next Stage of Training:
The (name of facility, city or municipality) is satisfied that (name of club) is adhering to all
COVDI-19 operating procedures with respect to their approved Return to Swimming plan and
we support the club to advance to the next stage of training:
● Single Lane swimming
● Activation activities on the deck
Screening and Safety Measures
● Stay vigilant and detailed in your club screening measures
● If in doubt - act with an abundance of caution.
● Continue to report participants’ positive tests and exposures even if unrelated to club activities.
Lockdown Level Grey Restrictions during Stage 3 Return to Swimming
Framework
All in-person indoor training in lockdown level grey areas for any registrant, or member club is
prohibited with the exception of HP athletes.
• Clubs must complete the Club Temporary Training Registration online form
• See Lockdown Level Grey additional details
Page 14 of 22 updated November 26, 2020Preparing for a Safe Return to Operations
Appendix B – Return to Racing
All resources for a Safe Return to Racing can be found on the Swim Ontario
webpage - http://www.swimontario.com/page.php?id=3031
November 13 - Return to Swimming and Racing Memo Nov 13
● Stage 1 Sanctioned racing events are permitted in Green to Orange levels, provided your
facility/city/municipality approves;
○ Clubs that were in the Ontario Stage 3 may continue with sanction applications.
○ Ottawa region can begin racing events on Friday, November 27 (sanction applications
are now open).
○ Clubs at all levels must be prepared to have their racing events cancelled if they are
moved to Red level. This can happen within days. Keep up to date HERE
○ Note that Swim Ontario may request more recent letters/email of endorsement from
the facility/city/municipality due to the rapidly changing situation with COVID in the
province.
● Stage 1 sanctioned racing events are NOT permitted for clubs operating in Red level (Toronto,
Halton, Hamilton, Your & Peel) until further notice.
November 4, 2020
• Return to Officiating - Participant Safety PDF presentation
o CJE, CFJ/Recorder-Scorer & Electronics Operator added as officials that may work 2
sessions a day and no more than 3 a week.
o Photography and Videography not permitted in Stage 1 Return to Racing
• Return to Officiating - Participant Safety webinar recording
• Return to Racing Safety Plan template
Page 15 of 22 updated November 26, 2020Preparing for a Safe Return to Operations
November 2, 2020
• Return to Officiating - Officials Development PDF presentation
• Return to Officiating - Officials Development webinar recording
October 29, 2020 - Return to Swimming and Racing Memo Oct 29
• For areas in Ontario Stage 3 - sanctioned Stage 1 racing events may begin on Friday, November
13.
• For areas in Ontario Stage 3 - sanction applications for Stage 1 racing events may begin on
October 30 provided all prerequisites are completed.
• For areas in Ontario modified Stage 2 sanction applications and racing events are on hold until
further notice.
October 13, 2020
• On October 9, Swim Ontario put on hold sanction applications and the start of racing events
until further notice. We must consult with the ministry and review the Ontario regulations
before we can update clubs on the start dates for sanction applications and when racing can
return.
October 7, 2020 - Additional restrictions for Stage 1
• Revised Sanction Procedures (updated)
• Swim Ontario Return to Racing Framework (updated)
• Swim Ontario Best Practices for Clubs and Officials in the Return to Racing (updated)
• A swimmer may only participate in sanctioned racing once a week
• An official may only work 1 session per day and no more than 1 per week excluding the
Meet Manager, Competition Coordinator and Safety Coordinator.
• The Meet Manager, Competition Coordinator and Safety Coordinator may only work 2
sessions a day and a maximum of 3 sessions per week
• A club may only apply for two sanctions per day with a minimum transition time of 60
minutes between the sanctions.
Facility Endorsement Email/letter template
As requested a template for facilities, cities or municipalities to follow for endorsement to run racing
sanctioned events.
Return to Racing - Stage 1:
The (name of facility, city or municipality) is satisfied that (name of club) is adhering to all
COVDI-19 operating procedures with respect to their approved Return to Swimming plan.
We also support and will allow (name of club) to run sanctioned racing events with all facility
procedures and safety measures as outlined in the Swim Ontario Return to Racing Framework
for Stage 1 and the club's Return to Safety Plan (stage 1) in place.
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Return to Racing Safety Plan Resources
• Swim Ontario Best Practices for Clubs and Officials in the Return to Racing (updated)
• Checklist Online Form (updated)
• Checklist Questions (updated)
• Dive Start Certificate for Competition
• Screening Protocols
• Electronic Whistles
• DQ Form (2x2)
• Return to Racing Framework (updated)
• Nov 4 Return to Racing Safety Plan template
• Nov 4 Return to Officiating - Participant Safety
October 2, 2020
• Sanction application for Stage 1 events may begin on October 16 provided pre-requisites are
completed.
• Sanctioned Stage 1 events may begin on Friday, November 6, 2020
October 1, 2020
• Return to Racing PDF presentation
• Return to Racing Town Hall Recording
September 15, 2020
• Swim Ontario Return to Racing Memo
Page 17 of 22 updated November 26, 2020Preparing for a Safe Return to Operations
Appendix C - Frequently Asked Questions
Q: My pool has been closed due to lockdown. Can I go to public lane swimming in another area that is
not in lockdown?
A: Swim Ontario wants to remind all member clubs and participants that lane swim activities are
not covered by Swim Ontario insurance.
Q: With the hold on transfers until January, who do I contact if I have a transfer question?
A: Contact Heather (heather@swimontario.com). Provide details.
Q: As a club, what steps do we take when University athletes are returning home for the holiday
break?
A: Please:
● Notify your facility to determine if the identified athlete will be allowed to join the training
bubble.
● Do not remove one swimmer from the training bubble to accommodate another.
● Complete full club designated screening prior to first training session
● Complete club information session prior to first training session
● Ensure each swimmer has properly completed the registration process (home club and
Swim Ontario/Swimming Canada)
● Carefully introduce the new swimmer to the training group and monitor for possible lane
bubble disruptions.
● Ensure that a swimmer arriving from outside of Canada (i.e. NCAA swimmers) quarantines
for 14-days (see next question for details)
Q: I have a registered swimmer that must self-isolate or requested to stay home and self-monitor due
to close contact with a positive COVID schoolmate. Can the registered swimmer attend workouts?
A: No. Participants shall not attend the activity if they:
● are currently diagnosed with COVID-19, or are waiting to hear the results of a lab test for
COVID-19
● do not pass screening (see club RTS plan for screening process)
● have been in contact with a suspected, probable, or confirmed case of COVID-19 in the last
14 days
● have been told by public health that you may have been exposed to COVID-19
● have returned from travel outside Canada in the last 14 days
Page 18 of 22 updated November 26, 2020Preparing for a Safe Return to Operations
Q: As a club, what steps do we take when University athletes are returning home for an extended
period due to University closing and moving to online learning?
A: Above all else, the club must mitigate the risk of accepting a new swimmer into a training group.
Please:
● Notify your facility to determine if the identified athlete will be allowed to join the training
bubble.
● Do not remove one swimmer from the training bubble to accommodate another.
● Complete full club designated screening prior to first training session
● Complete club information session prior to first training session
● Ensure each swimmer has properly completed the registration process (home club and
Swim Ontario/Swimming Canada)
● Carefully introduce the new swimmer to the training group and monitor for possible lane
bubble disruptions
● Seek Swim Ontario approval regarding changes to the RTS plan.
● Ensure that a swimmer arriving from outside of Canada (i.e. NCAA swimmers) quarantines
for 14-days (see next question for details)
Q: Can a registered swimmer attend workouts/racing events if
I. a family member that is returning home from university must self-isolate/quarantine at home.
II. a sibling must self-isolate due to close contact with a positive COVID schoolmate.
A: It is important that everyone understands what self-isolation/quarantine means and
remembering that the person requested to self-isolate/quarantine must follow the
measures at the following links:
● https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/publications/diseases-
conditions/covid-19-how-to-isolate-at-home.html
● https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/publications/diseases-
conditions/coronavirus-disease-covid-19-how-to-self-isolate-home-exposed-no-
symptoms.html
Of importance:
● Avoid contact with other people.
● Avoid contact with others in the same household, especially those you have not
travelled with.
● Wear a mask or face covering that covers your nose, mouth and chin when around
others in the household.
● Stay in a separate room and use a separate bathroom.
● Avoid family mealtimes.
Page 19 of 22 updated November 26, 2020Preparing for a Safe Return to Operations
● Eat in your room away from others in the household or at different times.
● Maintain physical distancing in your home.
● Self-monitor yourself for symptoms.
● Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds.
If these measures are strictly followed, then the registered participant can attend their
activities provided they self-screen keeping in mind the following:
Participants shall not attend the activity if they:
● are currently diagnosed with COVID-19, or are waiting to hear the results of a lab
test for COVID-19
● do not pass screening (see club RTS plan for screening process)
● have been in contact with a suspected, probable, or confirmed case of COVID-19 in
the last 14 days
● have been told by public health that you may have been exposed to COVID-19
● have returned from travel outside Canada in the last 14 days
If these measures are not followed then the registered swimmer should not attend the
activity.
If the person requested to self-isolate/quarantine develops symptoms of COVID-19 and
there was close contact (self-isolation/quarantine measures were not followed) then the
registered swimmer must not attend the activity.
Q: Are we permitted to use change rooms if the facility allows?
A: Yes. As long as protocols are in place for their use.
○ Restrict number of people allowed to maintain physical distancing and avoid socializing
○ Restrict time allowed to change (5-10 mins maximum) – no after workout showers
○ Locker / change room management to ensure physical distancing at all times
○ Masks must be worn at all times
Q: How can I apply for a sanction for a Time Trial? What are the prerequisites?
A: Ontario is currently in Stage 1 of the Return to Racing Framework for clubs operating in Green
to Orange Levels. “Time Trials” have been redefined to “In House Racing” or “Intra Club Racing”.
All details regarding the Return to Racing can be found on the Swim Ontario webpage -
http://www.swimontario.com/page.php?id=3031 .
Before a club can submit a sanction application for Stage 1 racing they must complete all
prerequisites. Below is a snapshot of the pre-requisites. A Return to Racing Safety Plan is
required as part of the Safety Plan checklist. A template for a Return to Racing Safety Plan can
be found HERE
Page 20 of 22 updated November 26, 2020Preparing for a Safe Return to Operations
Q: Is there a template to help develop our Club’s Return to Swimming Plan
Swim Ontario’s Return to Swimming Committee has created a Return to Swimming template
that clubs can follow to ensure all major components are included in their plan.
Q: Why single lane swimming now allowed?
A: Based on clarification from the Government of Ontario with respect to Ontario Regulation
364/20 https://www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/200364 programs are required to maintain
physical distancing of at least 2m. - No congregating at the end walls and an
individual start/stop for swimmers at various points in the lane
Update: See Nov. 13 memo
This FAQ section will continue to evolve as more clubs return to training.
Page 21 of 22 updated November 26, 2020Preparing for a Safe Return to Operations
Return To Swimming Fall Plans
RTS template
RTS Committee
RTS Plan Proposed Proposed Training ACTIONS Requirements by August 21, 2020
status Activity Facility
Approved Pool Current / Phased In • Update detailed training schedule and phase in plan
Swimming Usual upscaling • Include any dryland activities
Approved Pool New or August/ • Provide Facility Rules and detailed training schedule &
for Swimming different September phase in plan
previously Start Dates • Submit Dive Start Certificate and Insurance Certificate
OW and/or Request
dryland • Include any dryland activities
RTS Plan in Pool Usual Phased In • Submit Return to Swimming Plan
progress Swimming upscaling • Provide Facility Rules and detailed training schedule &
August/ phase in plan
September • Include any dryland activities
RTS Plan in Pool New or August/ • Submit Return to Swimming Plan
progress Swimming different September • Submit Dive Start Certificate and Insurance Certificate
Start Dates Request
• Provide Facility Rules and detailed training schedule &
phase in plan
• Include any dryland activities
New RTS Pool Usual October and • Submit Return to Swimming Plan
Plan Swimming beyond start • Provide proposed phase in plan
date • Provide facility rules (if available)
• Include any dryland activities
New RTS Pool New or October and • Submit Return to Swimming Plan
Plan Swimming different beyond start • Submit Dive Start Certificate and Insurance Certificate
date Request
• Provide proposed phase in plan
• Provide facility rules (if available)
• Include any dryland activities
Return to Indoor/ New or September • Submit a Return to Training/Swimming Plan
Training Outdoor different start • Submit Insurance Certificate Request
Dryland • Provide facility rules and detailed activity details and
schedule
Return to Swimming/Training Plans will be reviewed by Swim Ontario staff. Please send to Nicole
nicole@swimontario.com
Requests for Insurance Certificate Requests and/or completed Dive Start Certificates can be sent to
Karen karen@swimontario.com
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