Pool Extraction Board (PXB) Training
Practical PXB Training for Swimming Pool Lifeguards & Leisure Teams
Build the practical skills and confidence needed to use a Pool Extraction Board (PXB) during a swimming pool emergency.
ELS PXB training combines classroom learning with practical pool-based training, helping lifeguards understand how to prepare the board, work effectively as a team and safely extract casualties from the water.
RLSS UK's own training programme is designed specifically to train lifeguards in the use of the Pool Extraction Board.
Thinking About Learning PXB?
If your swimming pool uses a Pool Extraction Board (PXB) as part of its emergency procedures, lifeguards need to understand how to use that equipment effectively when it matters.
A PXB can be used to assist with the extraction of different casualties from the swimming pool, including someone who is conscious but unable to get out of the water, an unconscious casualty, or a casualty with a suspected spinal injury.
But having a PXB available on poolside is only part of the preparation.
Lifeguards need practical experience in preparing the board, positioning and securing a casualty, communicating as a team and safely extracting the casualty from the water.
At Elite Lifesaving Skills, our PXB training gives lifeguards the opportunity to get hands-on with the equipment and practise the techniques in the swimming pool environment.
When an emergency happens, your team shouldn't be using the PXB for the first time.
Poolside Preparation
Understand the PXB, its components and preparing the equipment ready for emergency use.
Practical Casualty Extraction
Practise using the PXB to support and extract casualties from the swimming pool.
Lifeguard Teamwork
Develop communication, positioning and coordinated team working during casualty extraction.
What Is a Pool Extraction Board (PXB)?
A Pool Extraction Board (PXB) is specialist rescue equipment designed to assist trained lifeguards with extracting a casualty from a swimming pool.
The board has neutral buoyancy and includes colour-coded securing straps, head blocks, a head restraint strap, an anti-slip mat and an anchor mat used to stabilise the board against the poolside.
Conscious Casualty
For a casualty who is conscious but unable to get themselves out of the swimming pool, for example because they are injured or unwell
Unconscious Casualty
Lifeguards can use specific PXB procedures to assist with the extraction of an unconscious casualty, where speed and effective teamwork become particularly important
Suspected Spinal Injury
PXB procedures also include the management and extraction of a casualty with a suspected spinal injury, including casualty stabilisation and coordinated team working.
A PXB is emergency rescue equipment — effective use depends on lifeguards knowing their roles and having practised with the equipment before they need it for real.
What Does Pool Extraction Board Training Cover?
PXB training combines classroom learning with practical swimming pool training, giving lifeguards the opportunity to understand the equipment before putting the techniques into practice.
The RLSS UK PXB Master Programme covers board preparation, casualty management, practical extraction techniques and how the PXB fits within the swimming pool's Emergency Action Plan (EAP).
The example RLSS programme is designed as a two-hour training session, including a minimum of 1 hour 20 minutes in the swimming pool.
PXB Preparation
Learn about the board and its components, how the PXB is prepared for use and why equipment readiness matters before an emergency occurs.
Practical Casualty Extraction
Practise positioning the PXB, managing the casualty and working through the practical extraction process in the swimming pool.
Teamwork & Communication
PXB extraction is a coordinated rescue. Training develops clear communication, defined lifeguard roles and teamwork while managing and extracting the casualty.
Different Pool Environments
PXB procedures can differ depending on the swimming pool environment. RLSS training material includes methods for deck-level and freeboard pools, as well as shallow and deep-water situations.
Emergency Response
Training considers how PXB use connects with the facility's Emergency Action Plan, including casualty deterioration and the transition to CPR/AED where required.
Practical Training With Your Lifeguard Team
ELS can deliver practical Pool Extraction Board training at your swimming pool, allowing your lifeguard team to practise using the equipment within their own working environment.
Training can support lifeguard ongoing training, competency development and teams introducing PXB skills into their pool emergency arrangements.
For technical guidance on the use of the PXB and its integration into your facility's procedures, always refer to the current RLSS UK guidance, manufacturer instructions and your site's PSOP/Emergency Action Plan
Explore Our Pool & Lifesaving Training
Pool Extraction Board training can be delivered as a standalone practical training session or added to relevant ELS aquatic training where appropriate.
If your team requires wider lifeguarding, pool rescue or emergency response training, explore our specialist aquatic courses.
Hydrotherapy Pool Rescue Training – ATPRA
For teams working in hydrotherapy, rehabilitation, SEN and aquatic therapy environments.
ATPRA provides specialist rescue and emergency response training for staff supporting programmed aquatic activities.
NPLQ Lifeguard Training
Need qualified pool lifeguards?
The RLSS UK National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ) provides the training and assessment required for people looking to become professional pool lifeguards.
Hotel Pool Emergency Response – SPERA
Specialist pool emergency response training for hotels, spas and leisure facilities, developing practical rescue, CPR and first aid skills.
Need PXB Training for Your Lifeguard Team?
Looking to train or refresh your lifeguard team in the practical use of a Pool Extraction Board (PXB)?
Elite Lifesaving Skills delivers practical PXB training for swimming pool teams across London, Essex, Redbridge and surrounding areas.
Train with ELS and give your lifeguards the opportunity to practise the equipment, develop their teamwork and build confidence in casualty extraction techniques.
PXB • London • Essex • Redbridge & Surrounding Areas
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