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Member Benefits HandbookThe Benefits of Membership

Pool Environments | Plano, TX

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Welcome to The Association of Pool & Spa Professionals (APSP)APSP is dedicated to the growth and development of its members’ businesses and to the promotion, enjoyment and safety of pools, spas and hot tubs.

Use this guide to maximize your membership experience. It highlights all of the great benefits of being an APSP member and gives you the exact location on our website to take advantage of the privileges of membership.

Table of Contents:Sales & Marketing Benefits: 4

APSP Awards: 6

Standards, Technical & Advocacy Benefits: 7

Education & Certification Benefits: 9

Publications: 10

Networking & Communication Benefits: 11

Questions?Contact your APSP Account Representatives at 703.838.0083 or email memberservices @apsp.org. They are available Monday through Friday from 9 am to 5 pm (EST). Find answers to most of your questions at APSP.org.

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Diffazur Piscines | Saint-Laurent-du-Var, France

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Our MissionTo protect the ability of our members to do business, and to create an environment for their businesses to grow.

We ProtectAPSP responds to a rapidly changing economic and regulatory environment and continues to evolve, not just to keep pace, but to march ahead of emerging trends. Through government relations and standards development, APSP advances key legislation and regulation at the federal and local levels. APSP is the only industry organization recognized by the American National Standards Institute to develop and promote national standards for pools, hot tubs, and spas.

We PromoteAPSP connects members to the consumer through a consumer outreach campaign highlighting the benefits of pools and hot tubs, providing convenient and low cost financing options, and driving prospects to the member locator.

We ProfessionalizeAPSP University is the country’s premier pool, spa and hot tub education provider. Offered in classrooms around the country, as self-study programs, and in an on-line format, APSP University courses are all based upon the nationally recognized ANSI/APSP/ICC pool, hot tub, and spa standards. This means participants are learning building techniques and service and repair methods that are based on current technologies and sound research.

Best Hot Tubs | Huntington Station, NY

Hot Tub: Bullfrog Spas

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Sales & Marketing BenefitsAPSP provides exclusive benefits to help our members expand and differentiate their business.

8 APSP Online Member LocatorBuilder, Service Professional and Retailer members receive a complimentary listing on our online member locator. Seen by thousands of consumers and fellow industry professionals, it’s a great way to get your pool, spa and hot tub company noticed by your target audience. Additional branch locations can be added for a nominal fee.

>> APSP.org/MemberLocator

8 APSP Industry Supplier GuideManufacturer and distributor members receive a complimentary listing on our industry supplier guide. It is the premier search engine for industry business companies that offer pool, spa and hot tub products.

>> APSP.org/SupplierGuide

8 Logo MaterialsMembers can order a variety of APSP logo materials including member stickers, pins, decals, car signs and customized member certificates.

>> APSP.org/Store

8 Company BrandingEnhance your prestige and credibility by displaying the APSP member logo. Displaying the logo reminds customers that you belong to the world’s leading association of pool, spa and hot tub industry professionals committed to public safety and excellence. Include it on such materials as your business cards, website, letterhead, showroom windows, email signature and trucks.

>> APSP.org/MarketingToolkit

MAXA Dise Construccion San Jose del Cabo, Baja California Sur, Mexico

Sapphire Pools, Perth, Australia

2X APSP Members earn 2X as much on average compared with non-members.

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Sales & Marketing Benefits

8 Publicity ToolsAPSP offers members a marketing toolkit to help better reach existing and prospective customers through the consumer campaign or with evergreen materials you can cut and paste. The toolkit features a host of dynamic content, including logos, videos, social media templates and tip sheets.

>> APSP.org/MarketingToolkit

8 Market ResearchAPSP provides members with regular business intelligence for a fraction of the price that it would take to gather and assemble the data on your own. Research includes the Hot Tub Statistics Program; Gallup Consumer Research and general industry statistics.

>> APSP.org/Research

8 SponsorshipsPartner with APSP and let us help you reach your target audience. You’ll maximize your business exposure, build relationships and gain brand recognition. We will customize and create a sponsor package for you as unique as your brand.

>> APSP.org/Sponsorships

Exhibitor & Tradeshow Attendee Discounts

Members receive discounts on exhibitor space as well as attendee registration at the International Pool | Spa | Patio Expo and The Pool & Spa Show. Make sure that you have your APSP member number ready when registering for your discount.

Patio Pools and Spas | Tucson, AZ

15%Discount on booth space at

The Pool & Spa Show and the

International Pool | Spa | Patio Expo

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APSP AwardsWe recognize and honor members for their contributions and innovations to the pool and hot tub industry.

8 Awards include: 8 International Awards of Excellence Design Competition

8 APSP Fellows

8 CBP Certified Building Professional of the Year

8 CSP Certified Service Professional of the Year

8 Retailer of the Year

8 10 Under 40 Young Professionals Awards

8 Dr. R. Neil Lowry Grant

8 APSP Chapter of the Year

>> APSP.org/Awards

8 DiscountsSave time and money and increase your bottom line with exclusive APSP member discounts like:

8 Prosper Consumer Financing

8 Office Depot

8 TSYS Credit Card Processing

8 FedEx Freight, UPS, YRC Freight and Estes Shipping Programs

8 LifeLock Identity Theft Solutions

8 Boxwood HR Job Postings

8 CNA Swimming Pool and Spa Contractors Insurance Program

8 ADP Payroll, Compliance and HR

8 3-E Company Safety Data Sheets for OSHA Compliance

8 The Pool Marketing Site for Web, Digital Branding and Engagement Strategies

8 APPI Energy Utility Consulting

8 Independent Insurance Group, Inc. (Texas)

>> APSP.org/Discounts

Pool Docs | Lakewood, N.J.

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Standards, Technical and Government Relations BenefitsTake advantage of the privileges of access, protection and knowledge.

We Write the StandardsAPSP has been the accredited Standards Development Organization for the nation’s pool, spa and hot tub standards since 1983. These national standards establish voluntary minimum guidelines that, when adopted by governments and agencies, have the force of law.

The International Swimming Pool & Spa Code (ISPSC)The ISPSC is derived from and fully supported by the ANSI/APSP national consensus standards, which have been developed under the rigorous due process requirements of the American National Standards Institute (ANSI).

The ISPSC is the first and only comprehensive model swimming pool and spa code available for states and localities to adopt. It is the only model code that addresses all (public and residential) types of pools and spas, and covers all aspects of construction & design. While most states and local jurisdictions have some form of existing public pool code, most lack a comprehensive code or laws that address the design, construction and safety of residential pools, which is where most pool related injuries occur. Many jurisdictions lack even a barrier or suction-fitting requirement in residential pools.

What are the top benefits of a state or locality adopting the ISPSC? 8 State and local jurisdictions adopting the ISPSC are eligible for Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) yearly training money.

8 Enhances residential pool barrier requirements, reducing drowning or near drowning.

8 Eliminates entrapment incidents and ensures Virginia Graeme Baker (VGB) Act compliance and eligibility under the VGB State Grant Program by reference to APSP-7 Standard for Suction Entrapment Avoidance.

8 Uses time-proven ANSI/APSP standards by reference and integration.

8 Contains barrier, decking and lighting provisions coordinating with the International Building Code (IBC).

8 Covers all types of aquatic vessels, including residential and public pools, portable and in-ground spas, water parks, exercise spas, and hot tubs.

8 Is based on up to date, scientific and third party testing and research on issues such as entrapment prevention, drowning prevention, energy usage and materials and dimensions.

8 The first swimming pool and spa code to address energy usage by including an energy standard for residential portable electric spas and for residential in-ground swimming pool and spa equipment.

>> APSP.org/Standards

True Blue Swimming Pools | Dix Hills, NY

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Standards, Technical and Government Relations Benefits

8 Fighting for Your Business Success Through Advocacy

APSP members stay up to date on important government relations news that impacts their livelihood at the state and national level. Through regulation and legislation monitoring, our advocacy experts keep an eye out for you and efforts that might negatively impact your business.

>> APSP.org/Advocacy

8 World of Recreational Water (WRW) Foundation

The World of Recreational Water (WRW) Foundation is an international nonprofit foundation that, in collaboration with The Association of Pool & Spa Professionals (APSP), advances and fosters responsible use of scarce water resources and represents, defends, and promotes the sustainable use of recreational water. Guided by science, WRW (a 501(c) (3) organization) promotes emerging technologies, supports research into the conservation and energy efficient use of recreational water, and underwrites education and training to advance sustainable recreational water environments and practices for pools, spas and hot tubs worldwide.

>> APSP.org/WRW

Cascade Custom Pools | Austin, TX

1000+ APSP analyzes over 1,000 proposed pieces of regulation/legislation each year to protect your business.

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Education & Certification BenefitsGiving you options to save time and money

8 APSP University Whether you’re an established professional looking to expand your business or just getting started, the APSP University offers education courses just for you.

With APSP University’s live virtual courses, self-paced learning and webinars you can train at the office or at home without spending money on travel. Access webinars, classes and state-of-the-art training when you’re ready. You can even take APSP Certification courses and business skills training online whenever you’re free. The latest classes and schedules are always updated online.

>> APSPUniversity.org

8 CertificationEarning your APSP Certification sets you apart from your colleagues and showcases your knowledge and skills.  It makes you a more valuable asset and keeps you and your organization more competitive. Plus some states are beginning to require APSP certification as the basis for mandatory state licensing. APSP offers the following certifications:

8 CBP Certified Building Professional®

8 CSP Certified Service Professional®

8 CST Certified Service Technician®

8 CMS Certified Maintenance Specialist®

8 CHTT Certified Hot Tub Technician®

To become certified, applicants must meet minimum levels of education and experience and pass a comprehensive exam. Certified individuals maintain their certifications by earning continuing education units through attending approved industry seminars, workshops, webinars, conferences and other events.

>> APSPUniversity.org

8 APSP University AccreditedMake sure that your training program meets the highest industry standards by getting it APSP Accredited. It’s an easy process and enhances your professional reputation for providing quality training for industry professionals.

>> APSP.org/Accredited

8 Customized TrainingGet your staff the personalized training that they need. Set up a customized training solution for your company.

>> APSPUniversity.org

8 Worker Safety Resources for OSHA Compliance

APSP and its partner, CNA Insurance, realize the value in sharing t information to keep you and your employees safe. To assist with OSHA compliance, share and review safety bulletins on the topics of construction, drivers, ergonomics, general liability and hazardous material safety bulletins.

>> APSP.org/WorkerSafety

Pool Environments | Plano, TX

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PublicationsRefer to one of our standards for technical guidance or include one of our many safety brochures with each product you sell.

8 StandardsSince 1983, APSP has been accredited by The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) as the Standards Development Organization for the nation’s pool and spa standards. As a member, enjoy discounts on the following Standards:

8 ANSI/APSP/ICC-1 2014 Standard for Public Swimming Pools

8 APSP-2 1999 Standard for Public Spas

8 ANSI/APSP/ICC-3 2014 Standard for Permanently Installed Residential Spas and Swim Spas

8 ANSI/APSP/ICC-4 2012 Standard for Aboveground/Onground Residential Swimming Pools Includes Addenda A Approved April 4, 2013

8 ANSI/APSP/ICC-5 2011 Standard for Residential Inground Swimming Pools Includes Addenda A Approved June 28, 2012

8 ANSI/APSP/ICC-6 2013 Standard for Residential Portable Spas and Swim Spas

8 ANSI/APSP/ICC-7 2013 Standard for Suction Entrapment Avoidance In Swimming Pools, Wading Pools, Spas, Hot Tubs, and Catch Basins

8 ANSI/APSP/ICC-8 2005 (R2013) Standard Model Barrier Code for Residential Swimming Pools, Spas, and Hot Tubs

8 APSP-9 2005 Standard for Aquatic Recreation Facilities

8 ANSI/APSP-11 2009 (PA) Standard for Water Quality in Public Pools and Spas Includes Provisional Amendment Approved May 4, 2015

8 ANSI/APSP/ICC/NPC-12 2016 Standard for the Plastering of Swimming Pools and Spas 

8 ANSI/APSP/ICC-14 2014 Standard for Portable Electric Spa Energy Efficiency

8 ANSI/APSP/ICC-15 2011 Standard for Residential Swimming Pool and Spa Energy Efficiency Includes Addenda A Approved January 9, 2013

8 ANSI/APSP-16 2011 Standard for Suction Fittings for Use in Swimming Pools, Wading Pools, Spas, and Hot Tubs

>> APSP.org/Standards

8 Education ManualsAPSP Education Manuals are valuable resources for any professional. The manuals are usually packaged with a course but can be bought separately as a reference tool and are available to members at a discount.

8 APSP Builders Manual

8 APSP Service Tech Manual

8 APSP Hot Tub Technician Manual

8 APSP Retail Sales Associate Manual

8 Pool & Spa Basics Manual

>> APSPUniversity.org

8 Consumer Safety Brochures

The APSP has produced a variety of water safety brochures and booklets available to members at a discounted price. Show your customers you care about their safe enjoyment of pools, spas and hot tubs by including these brochures with every product that you sell. It’s an easy way to remind your customers that their safety is your top priority.

8 The Sensible Way to Enjoy Your Inground Swimming Pool

8 The Sensible Way to Enjoy Your Aboveground/Onground Swimming Pool

8 The Sensible Way to Enjoy Your Spa or Hot Tub

8 Be Safety Aware

8 Children Aren’t Waterproof

8 Entrapment Avoidance Guidelines

8 Layers of Protection

8 Pool and Spa Emergency Procedures for Infants and Children

8 Plan Your Dive, Steer Up

>> APSP.org/ConsumerBrochures

Bi-State Pool & Spa | O’Fallon, MO

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Network & Communication BenefitsMembers who actively participate in the association report greater satisfaction with their membership.

8 Get InvolvedThere are many opportunities to volunteer your time and talents for the betterment of the industry. Here’s a list of groups to consider:

8 APSP Chapters

8 WAVE Young Professionals Network

8 International Hot Tub Association Strategic Leadership Team

8 Manufacturers Council

8 Manufacturers’ Agents Council

8 Fiberglass Council

8 Service Council

8 Builders Council

8 Retail Council

8 Technical Committee

8 Standards Writing Committee

8 Education Committee

8 Recreational Water Quality Committee

>> APSP.org/WillingnessToServe

8 One Powerful VoiceAPSP is committed to uniting and strengthening the industry and extends membership to companies in the following affiliate organizations:

8 International Hot Tub Association (IHTA)

8 Pool & Hot Tub Council of Canada (PHTCC)

8 Northeast Spa and Pool Association (NESPA)

8 California Swimming Pool & Spa Association (CPSA)

>> APSP.org/WhoWeAre

8 APSP E-News & Hot Tub E-News

Through the APSP electronic newsletter, APSP delivers breaking news and information on top industry programs, events, and hot topics. The APSP newsroom provides members, consumers, and the media with easy access to up-to-date industry news. 

>> APSP.org/Newsroom

Premier Pools & Spas | Rancho Cordova, CA

TLC Outdoor Living Inc. | Katy, Texas

Portable Spa: L.A. Spas

Member Benefits HandbookThe Benefits of Membership

APSP.org | 703.838.0083 | Follow Us: