Changing room equipment company Helmsman has linked up with pool safety specialist SenTAG in a move designed to help with both security and safety.

The SenTAG wristband is worn by bathers and should they break specific rules concerning DEPTH and MOVEMENT, an alarm is sent immediately to a lifeguard, allowing an assessment the situation and an appropriate response.

This may involve the simple management of who swims where or - more seriously - raises the alarm if someone is motionless on the pool floor.

In addition to the safety element, the wristband can store a key or contain a ’chip’ to work with the Helmsman keyless locker access control and proximity management systems.

Very new to the industry, the SenTAG system - offering centres the capability of managing customers, providing cashless catering, overseeing locker use, refurbishing or replacing existing changing and washroom areas and installing vital drowning alarms - so far has operational sites in Oxfordshire and South Wales. Both companies are looking for early adopters of the technology.