Pool safety is often overlooked, but it’s essential to prevent accidents. In recent years, there has been an increase in drownings in swimming pools, especially in private pools. While swimming lessons and pool covers are important safety measures, a pool fence is also essential.
How pool fence regulations have changed
The increase in drowning accidents has led to changes in frameless glass pool fencing regulations. Many of these drownings occurred in areas with fences, so authorities investigated to identify any potential problems. After thorough studies, they identified the problem areas and implemented new regulations.
Pool fence requirements
All pools must have a fence. While there are no specific requirements for the material used, the fence must meet certain size, pool fence height, gate, and latch requirements. Here are the requirements for a safe glass panel pool fence.
Pool Fence Height
Pool fences must be at least 1200mm high and it must limit entry to the pool and its immediate area or any permanent structure (e.g., steps, retaining walls, raised gardens). Any fence shorter than this will not pass a safety inspection. This height also makes it difficult for children and pets to climb over the fence. Installed pool fence height should be at least 48 inches from the ground level.
Distance from Climbable Objects
Since many children try to jump over fences, the glass fence around the pool must be at least 900mm from any climbable objects. This distance ensures that no children or pets can climb onto the objects and hoist themselves onto the top of the fence.
Distance from Pool
The ideal distance between the pool and the fence is at least 36 inches. This ensures that pool users have enough space to walk around the pool and that a child or pet who climbs the fence will not fall directly into the pool.
Distance between Posts or Bars
Whether you have a glass panel or wooden post fence, the space between the panels or posts must not exceed 100mm. This prevents anything from getting stuck between the panels or passing through. While larger panels may look more appealing, they can be a hazard, especially for younger children. Getting stuck between these panels can be dangerous and may require the fire department to rescue the person. Smaller panels also make the fence more stable and less likely to topple over.
Fence Quality
When choosing a pool fence, ensure that it is well-made. If you choose a glass fence, make sure the glass is strong enough to withstand the elements and any weight applied to it. If you choose a metal fence, make sure it is rust-resistant. Children often press against glass or walls to try to reach a place. If the glass is brittle, it could break and injure your child.
Self-closing and Self-latching Gate
A self-closing and self-latching gate is a good safety feature. This way, if you go swimming, the gate will close behind you, and a young child will not be able to enter. It also ensures that children and pets cannot sneak into the pool when you are away.
Outward-opening Gate
The pool gate should open outwards. This allows people to exit the pool easily. A pull gate is a safety hazard because it has been known to cause even more accidents in an emergency. With an outward-opening gate, the pool stays safe, and so do the people in it.
Pool Gate Alarm
While this is not required for every gate, it is helpful to know when the gate is opened. If your house is a distance from the pool, you may not know when your children are at the pool. A pool gate alarm lets you know if someone has accessed the pool and allows you to check it out. This is especially helpful if you have older children who may have figured out how to open the gate but are not good swimmers.
Reasons for pool gate regulations
While all these regulations on pool fence height and distances may seem like a lot, they go a long way to ensuring the safety of everyone around the pool. Having the wrong fence installed is just as bad as having no fence at all. If you plan on installing a fence around your pool, ensure that you get the dimensions right and choose a quality fence. This way, you can be sure that your children and pets are safe around the pool.
Conclusion
Pool fences have helped reduce the number of drownings in private pools. If you have never thought of getting one, now is the time to start. It will ensure that your children and anyone who does not know how to swim stay safe while in the water. Take your time and choose the right fence for your needs before having it installed. For your glass pool fencing needs, reach out to Royal Glass by sending an email to info@royalglass.co.nz or by calling 0800 769 254.
