By Oliver Lees
Homeowners are being warned to double-check the qualifications of the tradespeople installing safety mechanisms around their pools.
Since December 2019, all Victorian landowners have had to register any pool or spa on their premises with their local council, as a means of improving pool safety.
Likewise all swimming pools that hold more than 300 millimetres of water must have a compliant safety barrier to restrict young children entering the pool unsupervised.
In addition to these regulations, Victorian Building Authority regulatory operations director David Brockman said it’s important that all pool owners confirm the qualifications of tradespeople at their home before they commence safety works.
“In the last two decades, more than 20 young children have drowned in cases where a non-compliant safety barrier has been a factor. These are preventable tragedies,” Mr Brockman said.
“Making sure a registered building practitioner has installed your pool and pool fence is vital for the safety of family and others who use your pool.
“Everyone has a part to play in pool safety – anyone who owns a pool or spa must maintain safety barriers to prevent unsupervised access.”
For more information on pool safety requirements, visit: www.vba.vic.gov.au
