Things to consider before a pool safety inspection

A backyard pool can be a source of endless joy and relaxation for families, but it also comes with significant responsibilities, particularly concerning safety. A pool safety inspection is vital to ensure that your pool meets regulatory standards and is safe for use. However, failing an inspection can lead to re-inspection fees or, worse, pose serious risks to those using the pool.

Things to Check Before a Pool Safety Inspection

To avoid such outcomes, it’s crucial to conduct thorough pre-inspection checks. Here’s a detailed guide on the essential things to examine to obtain a pool safety certificate:

Pool Barriers

• Minimum barrier height from finished ground level to the top of the barrier is 1200mm
• Maximum allowable gap from finished ground level to the bottom of any barrier is 100mm
• Gaps between vertical members with horizontals a minimum of 900mm apart, must not exceed 100mm
• Where the horizontals are less than 900mm apart, the gaps between verticals must not exceed 10mm and the horizontals must have a 60-degree fillet attached
• Climbable objects must be at least 900mm away from the pool barrier on the outside and 300mm on the inside
• Mo objects (decks, door sills, etc.) can be so close as to reduce the minimum 1200mm fence height
• If it is not possible to achieve a 900mm non-climbable zone on the outside, then the fence height can be raised to 1800mm and a 900mm non-climbable zone created at the top
  on the inside, with no objects like decks below the non-climbable zone that would reduce the 1800mm height/drop from the top of the fence

Pool Barrier Gates

• Pool gates must not open toward the pool area
• Pool gates must be self-closing and latching from all positions
• The bottom of any latch release mechanism on the outside of the gate must be at least 1500mm above the ground and 1400mm above the top of the highest lower horizontal member
• Pool gate hinges must be at least 900mm apart or the lower hinge must have a non-climbable
  (sixty degree) safety cap affixed to prevent climbing

Door and Windows

• There is no direct access through a door from the house to the pool area
• Windows opening onto the pool area must not
  open more than 100mm or must be security screened

Signage

• A compliant CPR sign must be displayed either be attached to the barrier for the pool, or
  displayed near the pool, so that the sign is conspicuous and easily visible to anyone near
  the pool