So you’ve got a new pool – just in time for summer too! No doubt you will enjoy endless enjoyment on those extra hot summer days. But before you dive into the fun, there’s one thing you need to check: pool fencing requirements. And it’s vital! Pool fencing is mandatory in Queensland, and for a very good reason. Your pool is a great recreational addition to your home, but it can be hazardous. Young children are naturally inquisitive, and when they see all the fun you can have in a pool, they are sure to want a piece of the action! But without proper supervision, that is a recipe for disaster. But you can’t be around all the time. So how do you keep them out while you’re not around?
Well, that’s what pool fencing requirements are for. The government has established these requirements in response to a number of tragic accidents. And they are effective. So it’s in everyone’s best interests to comply with them. They take into account the physical capabilities of young children, as well as their adventurous nature. The result: a perfect set of pool fencing requirements that keep everyone happy.
One of the most important pool fencing requirements is height: Your pool fence must 1200mm
When it comes to pool fencing requirements, height is number one. For obvious reasons, your fence has to meet the height requirements, which in Queensland is 1200mm. Specifically, your pool fencing barrier must be at least 1200mm from bottom to top. This height has been set in accordance with careful research. It takes into account all the factors that could allow a child to get over a pool fence and addresses them. The result: added safety for you and your children.
And remember, it’s not just your children you have to worry about. Small children have a tendency to go wandering, and if they find themselves near a pool, the temptation might be there to jump in. If your fence meets the pool fencing requirements for height, then that won’t be a problem! So buy yourself some peace of mind and dodge a potentially hefty fine!
Your pool gate must be self-close and self-latching
So your pool fence is up to scratch in terms of height – what else do you need to do? You should take a look at the gate because pool gates are a distinct weakness in a lot of pool fences. But does it really matter if it’s a bit stiff? According to pool safety requirements, it certainly does! Pool gates have to be self-closing and self-latching. The biggest impediment to this: the weather. Chances are, your pool gate is standing exposed to the elements all day long. Rain, sunlight and everything in between will wear down the hinges over time. Depending on the type of gate you have, it could even rust. What does this mean for your compliance with pool fencing requirements? Well, it might compromise them.
Rusty hinges simply won’t close nearly as effectively as well lubricated ones. This means that an accidental oversight could leave your pool gate wedged open. So what can you do about it? We recommend keeping the hinges and latches of your pool door well lubricated, and replacing them when necessary.
Pool fencing requirements prohibit climbable objects near the pool barrier
You might think pool fencing requirements only govern the fence itself. That would make sense right? Well, not exactly. After all, your fence is not going to be very effective if a child can easily scale it. And that leads us into this pool fencing requirement: climbable objects aren’t permitted within a close proximity of the fence. Basically, this pool fencing requirement is aimed at really fortifying your pool. And it really highlights the importance of vigilance.
There’s always the temptation to spruce up the yard a bit, with a large plant or decorative ornament. But if it is too close to your pool fence, a child might use it to climb over. Weak points like that expose your fence to a potential flaw. Fortunately, it’s an easy fix! Simply do a weekly check around your pool fence and make sure there is nothing nearby that a child might use to climb it.
Deteriorated barriers do not comply with pool fencing requirements
How long has it been since you last gave your pool fence some loving? If it has been a few years, we suggest taking a look whenever you next get the chance. Pool fences do deteriorate in the same way as all fences do. Over time, certain components might fall victim to the weather and as they do, the fence will be weakened overall. Fences that used to comply with pool fencing requirements may fail to do so after a while.
This can leave you susceptible to council interventions, so it’s well worth doing running repairs as problems arise. But what if your fence has truly fallen to pieces? Well, in that case, we recommend getting a new one. Look at it as an opportunity to breathe a bit of life back into your outdoor living area. Better still, see it a chance to secure the safety and enjoyment of your pool area!
Do pool fencing requirements extend to fencing materials?
So it probably seems like there are too many pool fencing requirements to keep track of. So how can you comply with them all and get an attractive and appealing pool fence? Easy! Speak with the fencing experts. This will allow you to review your options, with some help from those in the know. By doing so, you’ll probably realise that despite all the pool fencing requirements, there are still a lot of great options available.
Of course, you’ll have to check the regulations and pool fencing requirements before you commit to anything. But, provided the material you choose is strong and durable, chances are it’ll probably comply with the regulations. So don’t feel stifled – there are plenty of options out there. And all of them will keep your pool the safe and fun space it is meant to be!
For all your pool fencing requirements, contact FenceCorp today on (07) 3715 5055.