3. PURPOSE

To establish a framework of considerations any pool owner should consider when designing a pool or inheriting a one through the purchase or occupation of a property with a swimming pool.

4. DESCRIPTION

The design of your pool tank and its surrounds can greatly affect safety. Knowing what may be potentially dangerous can help you put into place rules for the safe use of your home pool.

Prior to installing a new pool or spa Royal Life Saving recommends consideration be given to the incorporation of safety elements into your pool and surrounds.

Below is a list of poitns to consider for reasons of safety:

4.1 Pool Design Considerations

• Do you have a Resuscitation Flow chart posted in the pool area for emergencies?
• Is it easy to see where the deep water begins?
• Do you have handrails available on entry/exit steps, especially deep water?
• Do you have slip resistant surfaces where they are necessary?
• If you have slides or rope swings into the pool is the water at the entry area an appropriate depth?
• Are all fittings and fixtures fixed to the pool designed so they are not sharp or protrude excessively into the pool from the edges?
• Is the skimmer box designed or modified so it is no longer considered a banned potty style?
• Are paths around the pool at least 1.0m wide so that all areas of the pool can be qucikly accessed?
• Are all areas immediately around the pool free from raised lips or edges that may contribute to trip accidents?
• Does your pool have depth indicators clearly displayed?

• How do you COMMUNICATE with users your pool on how to avoid hazards?

  • Signs can be purchased that meet Australian Standard 2416-2003 ie 'CAUTION:SHALLOW WATER' especially where water is less than 1.50m deep.

• Are feature lights around the pool area very low voltage?
• Is shade available close by or over shallow areas of the pool to allow users to avoid extended exposure to the sun between 11.00 am and 3.00 pm?