Does your pool fence comply with local law?
As an extremely important measure to counter child drownings, you are required by law to have a fence around any pool, spa or water feature containing water that is more than 300mm deep.
This fencing must have an approved building permit and comply with the required safety standards.
According to the National Drowning Report 2014/2015, swimming pools were the leading location for drowning in the zero to five years old age group, accounting for more than half (54 per cent) of all drowning deaths.
Required standards include the height of the fence, layout, type of material used, gates and more. For a list of the standards, see this Building Commission document.
As well as fence and gate requirements, any kind of object that could be used to climb the barrier (retaining walls, furniture etc) must not be within 1200mm of the fence.
If you are planning to install a pool or spa or are concerned your fence may not meet requirements, contact your local fencing professional ASAP.
Is your portable pool safe?
Royal Life Saving Australia’s recent portable pool safety campaign called on people to be aware of these safety steps:
1. Check fencing requirements with local council regarding fencing requirements.
2. Ensure children are actively supervised within arms’ reach whenever in or around the pool.
3. Never rely on older children to supervise younger children irrespective of their ability to supervise.
4. For smaller pools, empty and put away when not in use.
5. Store portable pools where young children cannot find them.
6. Ensure emptied pools left outdoors cannot fill with rainwater or water from sprinklers.
For fencing installers see your Look Local WA professionals.
