Why is a pool fence important?
The types of pool fence you decided between may make play an integral–if often overlooked–role in the images you might have in mind for your grand swimming pool scheme. While options like landscaping, lighting, and various design implements all merge to create the mood and experience one desires, it is the swimming pool fence that contains and shelters it all. For that reason, many go to painstaking lengths to design a fence that is worthy of what lies within its perimeters whilst keeping it cheap (or not), with a certain amount of privacy in the backyard.

What are the requirements and does it vary per state?

A pool permit is required for all swimming pools, spas and safety barriers (including barriers for above ground pools & inflatable pools greater than 300mm in depth), before construction or installation work can commence. Pool fence regulations vary from state to state and are continually being updated to improve the safety around water (Got to look outwhether your state acceps screening as fencing). Victoria, NSW, South Australia, Tasmania, Western Australia and the ACT all must adhere to the current Australian Standard AS1926-2012.

The Australian Standard AS1926.1 – 1993 is in place for pool owners in the Northern Territory. Queensland adheres to its own modified standard AS 1926-2007 along with the state standard QDC MP 3.4.

The basic criteria for swimming pool fencing regardless of the state include:

• Pool fencing must be a minimum height of 1200mm.

• The top of the fence must be a minimum of 900mm away from climbable objects including trees, pergolas, barbecues, toys, pot plants and furniture.

• Any gaps in the fencing must be less than 100mm.

• The pool fence must be constructed from durable materials.

• Gates must be self-closing and swing away from the pool.

• Gate latches must be mounted pool-side.

Where there is any doubt, your licensed builder or pool fence installer can confirm all the regulations in your state.

Do you require a permit?

On 1 December 2019, new laws to improve swimming pool and spa safety came into effect in Victoria. They introduced new registration, inspection and certification requirements for property owners.

If you are the owner of land on which a pool or spa is located, you must register your pool and spa with the relevant council.

You can contact your local council or check their website for more information on how to register your pool or spa, including the fees payable.

What else is important to consider?

Ensure your pool fencing is compliant with your state regulations.
Always remember, a pool fence isn’t a substitute for adult supervision.
Do not leave any child around water unsupervised regardless of their swimming ability.
Take your child to swimming lessons.
Consider taking a CPR course so you can assist in an emergency.
Display resuscitation instructions near your pool such as on your pool fence.
Place a ‘no diving’ sign if your pool is too shallow for diving.
Avoid leaving furniture and other climbable items near your pool.
Avoid drinking alcohol around water and while supervising children.

Some pool fencing ideas to get you on your way:

1.Wrought Iron Fencing

DWI

Wrought Iron pool fencing comes in tube or solid that is, with or without spears. You can opt from a variety of spear designs available. There are a variety of tube and steel pool fencing available with us in Melbourne. The Bars are welded in the middle of the frame (Centralized) in order to give the gate the same type appearance on either side.

2. Glass Fencing

Exaktglass

With 68 ready-made glass panels, 13 gate combinations, 23 gate panels, 20 hinge panels, and 6 spigot models, Exaktglass is a good choice for everything you need to install your glass pool fence.
Exaktglass has its Melbourne warehouse, but you have the option of pick or -cost nationwide shipping.
All of Exaktglass’ frameless glass systems are tested to Australian Standards and hold accreditation to AS1926 and AS2208. Our glass systems are independently tested by NATA accredited engineers to ensure compliance to the National Construction Code, Building Code of Australia and Australian Standards.

3. Mix ‘n Match

Bloom Landscaping

Mixing glass, stone, wood and some landscaping ideas…Why not? Modern gardens come with beautiful designs that add to the aesthetic beauty of the property. The beauty of the design lies in its intricacy and detailing during construction. Bloom Landscaping offer you turnkey solutions to make sure all aspects of design specifications are met.
This is ideal in the scenario of pool fencing, considering the regualtions are tight, it’s important to get all parties on the same page.

Sarah Buckley

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