I have decided to have a pool installed in my garden. I have hired a registered builder. However I would like to know the legal requirements regarding pool safety so I can ensure the builder is complying with them.
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Answer by Kate Dodgson, Brisbane 4000 QLD
- Registered builders will be familiar with the rules and regulations regarding swimming pools but it is a good idea to know the requirements yourself. Particularly as some obligations regarding pool safety are on-going.
- Standards Australia (the peak non-government standards body in Australia) sets requirements for safety barriers and fences around pools.
- State and territory governments generally use these standards and sometimes add to them through their state building legislation.
- For example in Victoria the Australian Standards are implemented as well as more regulations in the Building Regulations 2006.
- Examples of pool safety include:
- a temporary barrier must erected during construction;
- latches on fences must be self-closing and latch properly; and
- fences and barriers should not be near trees or other walls which children could use to jump over.
- There are also requirements for on-going maintenance of pool safety barriers which you should be aware of.