This pool fence checklist is a broad guide and will not cover every situation. Please check with your local council regarding its regulations and requirements for pool fencing.
Pool fencing should prevent children from climbing over, under or through it to gain access to a pool.
Check that:
- The pool has isolation fencing where possible
- Bottom of your pool fence is less that 10 centimetres off the ground all the way around
- Horizontal rails are at least 90 centimetres apart
- Vertical or near vertical members are at least 10 centimetres apart
- Fencing is at least 1.2 meters high all the way around
- There are no gaps, holes or broken members that may provide access to the pool area.
- Hinges and latches work properly
- Gates and doors open away from the pool and automatically close when release from an opened position.
- The pool fence is away from any objects such as bbqs, rocks, trees, chairs that could assist children in climbing over the fence.
- Any windows are child resistant. Do not open more than 10cm or have security screens. Where the property boundary fence forms part of the fence check that:
- Horizonal supports on the neighbours side are no less than 90cm.
- There are no objects that could assist children in climbing the fence. Eg. Bins, trees, garden sheds, cubby houses, firewood stacks.