Western Australia Pool Safety and Regulations

In Western Australia, all swimming pools and spas with a water depth greater than 300 mm must have compliant safety barriers to prevent unsupervised access by young children.

Key Regulations

1. Depth Requirement: Any pool or spa capable of holding water deeper than 300 mm (approximately 12 inches) is required to have a safety barrier. This includes in-ground, above-ground, and portable pools.

2. Height of Fencing: The minimum height for pool fencing must be at least 1200 mm above ground level. If the fence is part of a boundary fence, it should be vertical and not lean more than 15 degrees.

3. Gate Requirements: Gates must swing away from the pool area and should close automatically. They must be equipped with a self-locking latch positioned at least 1500 mm above ground level.

4. Ground Clearance: The gap between the bottom of the fence and the ground should not exceed 100 mm to prevent children from crawling under.

5. Materials: Fencing materials must comply with Australian Standards AS 1926.1 and AS 1926.2. Common materials include glass, stainless steel, and aluminum, with specific requirements for glass fencing to ensure safety.

6. Compliance and Enforcement: The local government is responsible for enforcing these regulations, and non-compliance can result in significant fines. Pool owners are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the regulations to ensure safety and avoid legal repercussions.

Additional Resources

For more detailed information, including diagrams and specific compliance guidelines, you can refer to the Rules for Pools and Spas handbook published by the Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety. This resource provides comprehensive guidance for both pre- and post-May 2016 pools, addressing frequently asked questions and clarifying responsibilities for pool owners.

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By adhering to these regulations, pool owners can help ensure the safety of children and prevent tragic accidents related to drowning.