How we can help
We can make changes to the pool fence to meet the compliance requirements. Such as:
- Fence extensions
- Shielding
- Replacement of fence sections
- Repairs to the gate and locking mechanisms
- Installation and replacement of locks to windows and self-closing devices to doors and gates
- Maintenance,
- Adjustments to any climbable objects - pruning, landscaping, shielding.
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 make it compliant.
Interestingly, there are many solutions to some of the items that might not be what you first think of. We will sometimes discuss particular jobs with the pool inspector to determine the most cost effective solution for the client.
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 someone 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 this 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.
Royal Life Saving - Home Pool Checklist
Get the Royal Life Saving Home Pool Checklist here.
“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.
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. 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.
