Swimming Pool Fencing
Swimming Pool Fencing
We would all like a pool in our backyard but owning a swimming pool is fraught with potential dangers for you and your family if the right safety procedures are not followed. Pool fencing is mandatory practice for all swimming pools and if there are kids in the household, or kid’s friends coming over safety is paramount. Following pool fence regulations and maintaining the swimming pool fence can be easy, and who doesn’t want to ensure the safety of our household and guests.
Know the laws- Pool fencing laws
The requirements for child-resistant barriers vary depending on when the pool was built and where the pool is located.
Pools built before 1 August 1990
Access to the pool from the house must be restricted at all times. Windows and doors may form part of the barrier, but they must be compliant.
Pools built after 1 August 1990 but before 1 July 2010
The pool must be surrounded by a fence that separates the pool from the house. Some exemptions apply if the pool is part of:
- a very small property (less than 230 square metres)
- a large property (2 hectares or over)
- a waterfront property.
Pools built from 1 July 2010
All new pools must be surrounded by a fence that separates the pool from the house
When choosing your pool fence its often best left to the professionals. Both swimming pools and pool fences need to be checked by a professional, and property inspections should be conducted by a professional building inspector in your area to ensure you comply with council and your own state regulations. You may need to obtain building permission depending on your place of residence and state. Therefore, always check with your local council to see if a permit is required for your swimming pool. In most cases, minor repairs and replacements don’t need council permission.
Don’t forget
Ensure you are aware of the regulations and requirements when owning a swimming pool and one essential the fence is high enough. Depending on the type of pool you have will determine the fence type and height. In that respect. When installing your pool and fence ensure a professional assessment is done where a pool fence is concerned. Make sure the gate locks automatically and make sure there isn’t anything around the fence that can enable a child to climb over it. You need to also be aware the space between the fence bars shouldn’t be more than 900mm.
Maintaining your pool fence
The ongoing safety of your family and friends will depend on proper fence maintenance so be aware of the wear and tear on your swimming pool fence. If you leave the pool fence unattended for a long time, the damage can weaken the barrier and lead to dreadful accidents. Regular check-ups of the fence regularly, by inspecting the hinges along with the gate on the pool fence. Don’t wait for an accident to happen but replace any parts immediately rather than later. Apart from the responsible behaviour when maintenance is concerned, pool inspections needs to be done from time to time but one of the best things you can do safety wise is to purchase high-quality fencing that meets all the regulations required. A stylish and good quality fence also adds value to your home.
While swimming pools are a lot of fun, you need to be aware of the risks they pose for small kids as well. Drowning accidents can be prevented if you make sure that your pool protection is up to code. Stay safe and enjoy your family pool time to the fullest. It is also wise if you are buying an established home with a pool you organise your new home inspection to make sure the pool is safe for you, your family and your loved ones.