Ocean pools have been workplaces for caretakers, pool lessees, kiosk lessees, swimming teachers, contractors, council staff and other people engaged in maintenance work at the baths. Care of an ocean pool was sometimes one of the duties performed by lifesavers paid by Australian surfside councils during the summer months.
Voluntary work at the baths includes working bees and free coaching or lessons, but also the work performed by honorary baths inspectors often drawn from swimming clubs or surf lifesaving clubs.
Keeping order at the ocean baths was sometimes thought to require the powers of a special constable.
Pool staffing remains controversial as concerns about public liability grow.