In summer spending some time in the swimming pool can be a very enjoyable thing. From kids to adults everyone enjoys swimming in the pool. Spending some quality time together in the pool helps to build a strong bond among friends and family. Though swimming pool is fun, there are possibilities of accidental occurrence.

A report published by the Royal Life Saving Society-Australia stated that 112 people drowned across Australia from July 2020 to June 2021.¹ An increase of 30% from the previous year. To keep people safe the Australian government has implemented pool safety laws. Let’s have a quick look at the pool safety rules in Queensland. 

Pool safety laws in Queensland, Australia

The pool safety law in Australia varies from state to state. Apart from the variation, there are some rules that are common to all-state. These are,

• The pool must be registered.
• There must be a safety barrier around the pool or spa if it has a depth of 30cm or more.
• A barrier with a height of at least 1200mm must be placed around the pool or spa, it can be a fence or wall.
• The bottom of the pool fence and gate should not be more than 100mm from the ground.
• The gate of the pool must have an automatic closing system from any position.
• The minimum height of the latching device off the ground is 1500mm.
• The pool gate must open outwards.

There are some rules that are specific to a certain state. For Queensland these are,

• There must be a gap of at least 900mm between any horizontal rail on the outside, and the maximum gap between the verticals is 100mm.
• The distance between any Climbable objects (like chairs, trees, bushes, etc.) and the pool barrier on the outside should be at least 900mm. The verticals rails must have a distance of more than 10mm between them and 300mm on the inside. 
• Fences having a minimum height of 1800mm should have a 900mm non-climbable zone on the inside of the fence. It should be measured from the top of the inside. There should not be anything underneath this zone that a child could jump onto.
• Latches on the gate must maintain a minimum height of 1500mm from the ground level and 1400mm from the upper part of the lower horizontal railings.
• Hinges in the pool gate that are thicker than 10mm must have a minimum gap of 900mm between them. To prevent climbing, the lower hinges should have a non-climbable (preferably sixty degrees) safety cap.

Fines for pool safety law non-compliance

As the rule, the fines for not following the law also differ from state to state. But there is one thing in common, you break the law you have to pay the fines. For example, in New South Wales the fines can be a maximum amount of $5,500. As for Queensland for not following the safety law you may end up paying an amount of $235.60 on the spot fine to a maximum court penalty of $2,356.

Taking some safety precautions can help you to avoid unexpected circumstances. First of all, children need constant supervision around water. Following the state rules for building a fence around the pool will not only restrain you from paying fines but also keeps the children safe. Storing pool aids and toys, along with the chemicals securely and out of view will also help you avoid unexpected accidents. Last but not least, the concern should be given to the fact that electricity and water don’t mix. Having a swimming pool is a great way to spend quality time with friends and family. But this comes with some responsibilities. Following the safety precautions can help you avoid unintended accidents.

But most of all the important thing is to ensure your Pool is safe and your Pool Time is fun and child / Pet friendly. Be sure to check out the Climb Stop safety solution right here. Its Australian made, owned and designed for the Australian family in mind.

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