ISPE’s 135th One-Day Seminar, held at the Black Country & Marches Institute of Technology in Dudley, in the West Midlands, in November, brought together 50 delegates for a focused day of technical insight, discussion, and professional networking. With an overriding commercial pool theme, the seminar addressed some of the most pressing design, operational, and compliance challenges currently facing the wet leisure sector.
The event was opened by ISPE President Bob Judd, FISPE, setting the tone for a programme centred on practical application and real-world experience. Throughout the day, delegates heard from a strong line-up of industry specialists covering a wide spectrum of commercial pool topics.
Technical delivery began with John Cheek, FISPE (Hydrospec), who shared best practice guidance on commercial pool pipework installations, highlighting the importance of correct design and materials in ensuring long- term reliability. David Kay (FT Leisure) followed with an introduction to FTMicron4® microfiltration technology, outlining how emerging filtration solutions can support improved efficiency in both new build and refurbishment projects.
One of the day’s most topical sessions came from Mike Burnham, MISPE (Pool Logic), who examined the growing trend of converting domestic pools for commercial use.
His presentation clearly outlined the significant technical, legal, and safety implications of such projects. Martin Killen (Recotherm) then provided valuable insight into the complexities of swimming pool ventilation design, before James Lee, MISPE (Hydro Finesse), explored the impact of biofilms in commercial swimming pools and their relationship with water quality and infrastructure.
The afternoon sessions continued with James Hadley, MISPE (Pool Tech Services), discussing the operational and safety benefits of on-site chlorine generation, followed by Duncan Ockendon, MISPE (Aquaservice), who explained the importance of third- party certification for UV systems used in the inactivation of Cryptosporidium.
The technical programme concluded with a joint presentation from Lyn Phillips, MISPE (Sterling Hydrotech), and Duarte Tito (Pwlltec), focusing on pool water recovery systems and the significant savings they can offer in water, energy, and chemical usage. Delegates also enjoyed excellent networking opportunities, two engaging questions from the floor sessions following the morning and afternoon sessions, and a high standard of venue facilities and hospitality.
Feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive, reinforcing the ongoing value of face-to-face learning and knowledge exchange within the industry.
