The two positions need to be different individuals according to the rules. The names and contact information for the two roles are entered into the Safety Plan and Sanction Request Form for the Open Water Event.
USMS Rulebook - Part 3 Article 303.3.1
If dual sanctioning the event, USA Swimming Rulebook - Part Seven Article 701.7 and 701.8
Can the Safety Director be the permitting authority's contractor? (A water safety organization- non-profit - for which the event is now required to pay $500 for this service and relinquish control of all safety aspects of the event for the in-water component.) I would say a USMS Safety Director is still needed - but I don't know. Please advise
The person who serves as Safety Director for a USMS sanctioned open water event needs to complete (and pass) the USMS Safety Director Test. It is open book. There are individuals who are "independent" who have taken the test and serve as Safety Director for some USMS sanctioned open water events.
In my LMSC, we have had beach lifeguards.and others employed/contracted by the host who have taken the test to be the Safety Director for some of our events.
