Pre Pool Compliance Consultation

Pool Safety Check provides swimming pool compliance services and safety checks to ensure the swimming pools we manage are safe, reliable and compliant with current regulations.

Our Pre Pool Compliance Consultation is a comprehensive service that provides swimming pool owners and operators with peace of mind. Our experienced team will visit your swimming pool to assess its condition, identify any potential safety issues and recommend the necessary actions to ensure swimming pool compliance.

Victoria's Pool Regulations & Standards

In Melbourne, Victoria, the requirements for swimming pools and spas are governed by the Victorian Building Authority (VBA) and the local councils.

The VBA sets out the requirements for swimming pool and spa safety, including fencing and barriers, in accordance with the Building Code of Australia (BCA). Pools and spas are required to meet the requirements as to keep the barriers child-resistant and therefore safe.

According to the VBA, to meet safety standards, pool fencing must:

• Be at least 1200mm high, measured from the finished ground level on the pool side of the fence
• Have no climbable objects within 900mm of the top of the fence
• Have no gaps greater than 100mm in the fence
• Have a self-closing and self-latching gate, with the latch positioned at least 1500mm above finished ground level
  

Pool fences must also be made of durable, non-climbable materials that are resistant to corrosion and termites. This ensures that even though time passes and with only minor repairs, the fences will hold true. It's suggested to use aluminum, glass, and timber for pool fencing.

Drain and Suction Entrapment Preventative Measures

Pool and spa owners must install anti-entrapment devices, such as anti-vortex covers or grates, over all suction outlets. To prevent drain and suction entrapment, the VBA recommends the following measures:

• Install multiple drains or suction outlets to lower the strength of the suction
• Regularly check the installed anti-entrapment devices, drains, and suction outlets
• Provide training for lifeguards and staff on how to respond to any possible drain and suction entrapment situations

Drain and suction entrapment is a serious concern. It occurs when any loose clothing or body part gets caught in the suction created by a pool or spa's drain, potentially leading to injury or drowning and must be taken seriously.

Emergency Procedures and Signage Requirements

Emergency procedures and signage requirements designed to help prevent accidents and to ensure the safety of pool users and lifeguards in case of an emergency.

To ensure the safety and compliance of your swimming pool or spa, pool owners must have the following installed and ready:

• Emergency procedure signages
• CPR instruction signages
• Pool safety and rules signages
• Life-saving equipment
• Emergency phones

All of these are required to pass the Australian standards for pool safety and are essential to ensure the safety of pool users in case of an emergency.

Regular Pool Inspection and Maintenance Recommendations

Regular pool inspection and maintenance are essential for ensuring the safety and longevity of swimming pools and spas in Melbourne. Here are some general recommendations for pool inspection and maintenance:

• Regularly inspect and maintain all pool equipment, including fencing, pumps, filters, heaters, and chlorinators, to ensure they are functioning properly and to prevent equipment failure and compliance with the Victorian Building Authority (VBA).
• Maintain proper water chemistry by regularly testing and adjusting the pH, chlorine, and total alkalinity levels. Remember to keep all pool chemicals in a safe and secure area.
• Regularly inspect and clean pool's surface, drains, and suction outlets to remove dirt and sediment, and to ensure proper functioning of anti-entrapment devices.
• Regularly check for and treat algae growth to prevent unsanitary conditions and damage to pool surfaces and equipment.
• Ensure that pool and spa facilities are equipped with life-saving equipment, such as a rescue tube and first aid kit, and that lifeguards and pool maintenance staff are properly trained on how to use it.

It is important for pool and spa owners in Melbourne to follow these recommendations and to have their pools and spas inspected by a professional at least once a year to ensure they are in good condition and to address any issues that may arise.

What are the benefits of conducting a pool safety check pre-pool compliance consultation?

It ensures the safety of pool users, compliance with the regulations set by the relevant authority, and helps owners avoid the consequences of non-compliance, such as fines and legal liability.

What does a pool safety check pre-pool compliance consultation involve?

A pool safety check pre-pool compliance consultation involves an inspection of the pool and its surrounding area, including the fencing, drain and suction entrapment prevention devices, emergency procedures and signage, and life-saving equipment.

The consultant will provide a comprehensive report on the safety and compliance of the pool. If it is found non-compliant, a certificate of non-compliance will be issued.