Over time, changes occur
Over time, changes occur in the yard and home, and these changes can impact the compliance of a pool fence, just a few examples are:
- The self-closing mechanism on the gate stops working (due to age or fatigue);
- The latch stops working properly, so the tenant decides to keep the gate unlocked;
- Something is installed to a nearby wall, making a step-up point (foot-hold);
- The landscaping is changed and impacts the fence heights, or tree branches grow;
- The fence connection points rust or fatigue, in particular connections to timber decking;
- Window and door entrances from the house or an adjacent shed no longer meet requirements.
Inspector reports & pool fence repair
A pool fence will require amendments to be made if the pool inspector finds any non-compliant areas. However a scarier scenario is that an accident occurs due to the pool fence being non-compliant.
We often get asked to carry out repairs to pool fencing where an inspector has visited a property and provided a report on the amendments that need to be made to have it compliant.
Scary statistics
A scary scenario...
“Over the last ten years, over 330 Australian children under the age of five drowned. While all of these drowning deaths are preventable, it is the 50% that occur in home swimming pools where your immediate action can make a difference. Home pool fencing and effective supervision can reduce these tragic drowning deaths to zero.”
- From the Royal Life Saving website.
Royal Life Saving - Home Pool Checklist
The Royal Life Saving Society Australia has a useful Home Pool Checklist that you might find handy to do a quick check on the safety of your pool. They also have a handy Home Pool Safety App.
Innovative solutions
There are many solutions... that might not be what you first think of..
We often get asked to carry out repairs to pool fencing where an inspector has visited a property and provided a report on the amendments that need to be made to have it compliant.
Interestingly, there are many solutions to some of the items that might not be what you first think of.
Over time we have built rapport with the pool inspectors and will discuss particular jobs with them to determine the most cost effective solution for the client.
A few things to look for...
- Gaps in fencing greater than 100mm; that may have been caused by tree roots or other movements.
- Climbable objects within 1200mm of the top of fence.
- Projections and indentations that might be climbable, spaced less than 900mm apart.
- Properly operational latch and automatic self-closing device, that works from any position.
*** For more information see the Department of Commerce publication available online, ’Rules for Pools and Spas’ booklet. ***
What we can't do
Unfortunately, at this time, we are not pool inspectors and we can’t provide advice on what is required for compliance.
We are however able to act upon the instructions of a pool inspector or the instructions of the home owner and we have a lot of experience in repairs and maintenance.
How we can help
- We carry out repairs and maintenance to pool fences.
- We make adjustments to any climbable or other objects nearby to the pool fence (pruning, landscaping adjustment, shielding, etc).
- Installation of locks to windows and self-closing devices to doors and gates.
- Innovative solutions to make your fence compliant.
DIY Video - Pool Gate Repairs
A quick video with a few tips if you are doing it yourself (DIY), for your pool fence and gate maintenance and repairs.
This video demonstrates:
- Self closing pool gate hinge adjustments
- Self closing pool gate latch adjustments