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Swimming Pool Fences and Signs

All outdoor and indoor swimming pools constructed or installed after 1st August 1990 must be surrounded by an approved child resistant barrier that separates the pool from any residential building situated on the premises. The barrier must be designed, constructed, installed and maintained in accordance with Australian Standard AS 1926-1986 Fencing for Swimming Pools.

Owners of waterfront and large properties which may be entitled to certain exemptions under the Act.  Please contact Council's Planning and Regulation section for additional information.

Owner's Responsibility

The Swimming Pools Act 1992 requires the owner of premises on which a swimming pool is located to ensure that the pool is at all times surrounded by an approved child resistant barrier.  Window and door openings must not open directly into a swimming pool area.

Occupier's Responsibility

It is the responsibility of the occupier to maintain the barrier in a state of good repair, and to ensure that all gates or doors providing access to the swimming pool are kept securely closed and latched at all times when not in actual use. The Act also requires that occupier to display a prescribed warning notice in the immediate vicinity of the swimming pool, detailing resuscitation techniques together with a supervision warning.

Council's Responsibility

Under the Act Council is required to:

• Keep a register of all pools within its area.
• Promote awareness within its area of the requirements of the Swimming Pools Act 1992 and Regulations.
• Administer the requirements of the Act.

How to keep your pool safe

Do not leave objects near the barrier, as children may use these to climb over.  A secure pool is no substitute for responsible adult supervision. Children in or around the water must be supervised at all times, no matter what their swimming ability.

It is essential that children are taught to swim from an early age.  Training in resuscitation techniques will give adults the skills required in an emergency situation.

Signs  

All pool owners must display a prescribed warning notice in a prominent position in the immediate vicinity of the swimming pool.  The sign gives a supervision warning and the details of resuscitation techniques.  These signs are available from The Royal Life Saving Society, pool shops and other outlets.  Please display the warning notice where it can be easily seen.

Penalties

Council officers undertake periodic inspections of existing swimming pools to ensure compliance with the requirements of the Act.  On-the-spot fines can be imposed without warning by Council, particularly if the required child resistant barrier is not properly maintained in accordance with the Act and Regulations, or a warning notice is not displayed.

Contact details
Planning and Regulation Section
admin@walgett.nsw.gov.au

© 2008 Walgett Shire Council
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