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This page has a useful checklist as well as some saftety tips. They will ensure that your pool meets all the criteria under the Fencing of Swimming Pools Act 1987 and that users of your pool know how to keep it safe.

Quick reference checklist

To make sure your swimming pool fence meets all criteria under the Act, use this checklist:

The fence must:

• Be at least 1.2 metres high
• Have no gap or space larger than 100mm
• Be made of netting, mesh or trellis with no holes larger than 10mm for a fence up to 1.8 metres high

The rails must be:

• On the pool side
• More than 900mm apart
• Unclimbable

The gates and doors should:

• Open away from the pool
• Shut automatically and be self-locking
• Have latches on the pool side or that are at least 1.5 metres high
• Ranch-sliders that have pool access must have locking bolts out of the reach of small children

Above ground pools and spas should have:

• Removable steps
• Walls higher than 1.2 metres

Some safety tips

These tips are just some practical advice about keeping your pool safe and being prepared in case of an emergency.

• Maintain the fence and gate regularly
• Always make sure the pool gate is shut behind you
• Make sure other adults know not to prop open the gate
• Never have objects near the pool fence that children could climb or stand on
• Learn first aid and resuscitation and know what to do in a pool emergency
• Have a non-slip surface around the pool
• Never leave children unattended in or around the pool
• Keep the pool area clear - put away flotation aids and toys when they are not being used