If you live in Australia and are about to install an in-ground pool in your back yard, you will need to ensure that the pool and surrounding area comply with the state requirements. In 1992, the Swimming Pool Act was passed in an effort to eliminate pool accidents and whether you live in NSW or WA, your pool must be in compliance.
Here are a few tips to ensure that your pool passes the inspection with flying colours.
- Pool Fencing – Obviously, a critical element that must be present, the fencing must be of height specified for the size of the pool, with no gaps of any sort larger than 100mm. Most homeowners opt for glass, as this offers several benefits; you can see into the pool area, glass is durable, maintenance-free and easy to clean. There are framed and frameless designs and the fencing contractor would be very aware of the regulations regarding pool fencing and would therefore ensure full compliance.
- Pool Gate – The gate must be of a minimum height as defined by the size of the pool and it must be outward opening with a self-closing mechanism that closes the gate automatically from any position. The latch must be at least 1500mm from the ground and the gate should always remain in the closed position. The gate hinges should be capped, to prevent a child from gaining a foothold.
- Surrounding Area – There can be no climbing hazards; objects within a 1200mm radius of the pool fencing that could be used by a child to climb over the barrier. When arranging pool compliance in Penrith, the pool inspector would walk around the outside of the enclosure, checking that there is nothing within 1200mm of the fencing. This includes trees, vegetation, rocks, stones and any man-made items, so move things away if need be.
- Inside the Pool Enclosure – It might surprise you to learn that outdoor furniture is not permitted inside the pool area and that includes BBQ units; the only items allowed inside are pool cleaning & filtration equipment, permanent slides and permanent shading structures.
- CPR Signage – There must be an approved CPR sign inside the pool area and this should be visible from any location within the enclosure. You can order one from an online supplier and ask the fencing contractor to fix the sign securely.
Once your pool has been inspected and you are issued with a pool compliance certificate, this is valid for 3 years and is transferrable is you sell the property.
It should be noted that state officials are empowered to carry out random pool inspections and can levy on the spot fines to property owners that fail to comply with the regulations.