Do you own a house or building with a swimming pool? Then you need to get it certified, in order to ensure that your pool meets safety compliance standards. But before you call a certification inspector, it’s a good idea to do as much as you can to make it safe, so that your pool will pass inspection on the first go – after all, it’ll cost you extra to have the inspector back a second time. Here are some things you can take care of before the inspector comes.
The Pool Gate
- The pool gate should be a single gate that opens outward from the pool, not inward.
- The latch should be placed at least 1,500 millimetres from the ground. It should close securely, with no way for a child to pull it free. The hinges must not have a gap of more than 10 millimetres between the gate post and the gate stile.
- The gate should be self-closing and self-latching automatically from any position.
- The gap between the gate and the ground should be less than 100 millimetres.
- Never prop the gate open. This is liable for an on-the-spot fine of $450 or more.
The Fence
- The fence around the pool should be at least 1,200 millimetres in height.
- All fence panels should be present, all fixings should be tight and secure, and there should be no gaps greater than 10 millimetres between panels or from the ground.
- Make sure the fence is free of sharp protrusions and edges or other hazards.
- There should be no way of getting past the fence except through the gate. This means no door or window access to the pool, and no climbable items are placed nearby.
- Also make sure any adjacent trees have been trimmed so that children can’t climb them to get over the fence.
- Lastly, there should be a CPR sign with detailed resuscitation techniques placed on the fence within the pool enclosure. Make sure it is legible and in good condition.
Following these tips should help you obtain your pool certificate in Sydney and NSW with little hassle. And you’d better not delay in doing so, since the state government can carry out spot inspections of your pool based on anonymous complaints and issue you a fine if you are non-compliant. If you’re planning to sell your property, you’ll also need the certificate in order to make the sale go through much easier. And lastly, if a tragedy were to occur in your pool, without a certificate you may be sued, and your home insurance coverage voided.
Ultimately, the best way to ensure pool safety and prevent drownings is careful adult supervision. Make sure to never leave children unsupervised in the pool – in fact, irrespective of age, it’s best to never swim alone and always have someone with you. Your pool can be a wonderful respite during the summer months, as well as provide you with many happy moments and memories with your loved ones. So make sure your pool is as safe as can be for everyone who enjoys it.
