Member HandbookChapter 5.5
Patrol Deficit & Consequences
Updated 15 Aug 2026 · Content
A patrol deficit builds up in two ways: hours deficit from partial absences (late arrival or early departure), or a missed patrol — a fully missed rostered patrol without an accepted substitute. Both are tracked, and consequences apply automatically unless you've accepted a patrol swap (including a future-dated one) or hold an approved exemption.
"Deficit" is the formal term used in Club policy — you'll commonly hear members call it being "hours down." They mean the same thing.
| Deficit level | Consequences |
|---|---|
| In deficit (any hours owed, or a missed patrol) | Not entitled to train using club facilities, compete, or use club-owned surf sports equipment or the gym |
| 8 deficit hours or 2 missed patrols | All the above, plus ineligible for club trophies, awards or incentives. Written notice from the Director of Lifesaving. |
| 12 deficit hours or 3 missed patrols | Membership may be suspended or terminated by the Board, with written notice and a right to respond first |
Entitlements are restored once you accept a patrol swap in the Hub, pending completion of that patrol. These are club consequences and sit alongside — not instead of — SLSA's separate competition eligibility rules; see Surf Sports & Competition.