NSW government has warned parents that if their inflatable pools are filled with more than 30cm water it must be fenced like a regular pool or they may face a fine of up to $500.
Parental supervision around water at all times is still always going to be your best defence against tragedy. Also, draining inflatable pools when not in use is a must.
“That’s it, 30 centimetres. Every pool capable of holding that much water does require fencing,” Michael Morris from the Samuel Morris Foundation said.
“This is an ongoing problem of the point of sale making people aware of the risks of the products that they’re buying,” he said
“It is difficult because they’re bought and sold and no one knows where they go,” Robert Guthrie from the Pool and Spa Association said.
The government says it is assessing the report and is: “committed to reducing the number of drowning deaths in backyard pools. Any child drowning is one too many.”
“Supervision is paramount. Children under five should be within arms length at all times they’re in a swimming pool,” Mr Guthrie said.
NSW Fencing requirements state:
Swimming pool owners must ensure their pools comply with fencing laws. Pools able to be filled to a depth of 300mm or more must be surrounded by a safety barrier separating the swimming pool from any residential building or place adjoining the premises.
Fences surrounding pools must be designed, constructed, installed and maintained to meet Australian standards for swimming pools.
All swimming pools and spas on residential properties in Victoria with a depth greater than 30cm (300mm) are required to be surrounded by a safety barrier (e.g. a pool fence).
QLD Pool Fencing Laws
All swimming pools over 300mm must be enclosed by an approved barrier that meets with state government pool safety legislation under chapter 8 of the Building Act 1975.
A barrier can include:
•fencing for the pool
•walls of a building enclosing the pool
•another form of barrier mentioned or provided for in the pool safety standard
Approved barriers are only one part of swimming pool safety.
WA Pool Fencing Laws
There are varying requirements for swimming pool/spa safety barriers depending on the age of the swimming pool/spa and in some instances upgrading if a property inclusive of a swimming pool/spa is sold.
Prior to the construction of a swimming pool or spa approval must be sought and approval obtained by way of a Building Permit.
Above-ground or inflatable pools and ‘portable’ spa pools
If the swimming pool or spa pool has a filtration system you will need to:
•get approval from your local council
•ensure safety features are in place.
The sides of an above-ground pool can be a suitable safety barrier if :
•they are non-climbable and are at least 1.2 metres high
•a barrier is placed around the ladder (even if it is removable)
•a barrier is placed around anything else that can be climbed on.
Check with your local council if you are unsure of regulations.
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ella12 said
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