Starting on 1 December 2009 - and just in time for the height of the pool season - laws regarding pool fencing in Queensland will be changing. As a responsible pool owner, it is critical that you educate yourself about the new laws and that you become compliant right away. Whether you've owned a pool for many years - or if this will be your first season as a pool owner - it is imperative to know what your responsibilities are when it comes to pool fencing.
Before looking at the upcoming changes to pool fencing laws in Queensland, it's smart to have a refresher on what the existing laws are. According to existing laws, swimming pools Brisbane must meet the following criteria:
=> CPR Signs - Beginning on 1 October 2003, pool owners must have a cardiopulmonary resuscitation sign prominently displayed somewhere near their swimming pool.
=> Construction Signs - Pools that are currently under construction must have a warning sign posted nearby to avoid mishaps and accidents.
=> Compliant Fence - All swimming pools must have a compliant fence in place and maintained at all times.
=> Exceptions - The only case in which exceptions to these laws can be made is when the occupant of a building has a disability that prevents them from accessing the pool.
What The New Laws Mean
Now that you have a clearer idea about the basic, existing laws for pools, let's take a look at what the new pool fencing laws mean. Make sure that you thoroughly understand these laws to not only avoid falling afoul of the law, but to ensure that safety is maintained at all times.
=> Compliance With Current Standards - Pool fencing must already meet and comply with current and existing standards.
=> Temporary Fences - For up to three months, compliant temporary fences are permitted. Both the temporary and permanent pool fences must be looked at and signed off by the building certifier that approved the initial application.
=> CPR Signs - Pool owners in Queensland must not only display a CPR sign, but it must be one that is based on the current CPR method approved by the Australian Resuscitation Council.
=> Final Inspection - Final inspections must be done. If a final inspection is not made, then building certifiers must do a follow-up inspection after approving a building for a swimming pool. For new pools, the approved time frame will be six months; for new buildings with swimming pools, the time frame will be two years. Final inspections absolutely must be made before those time frame lapse - there are no exceptions to this rule.
Author Resource:
John Clark Pools understand that as much fun as swimming pools Brisbane can be, they can turn to tragedy when laws are adhered to. Those who own pools Brisbane must be conscientious about keeping up to date on current laws. Changes to pool fencing laws must be complied with, without exception.
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Author Resource:->
John Clark Pools understand that as much fun as swimming pools Brisbane can be, they can turn to tragedy when laws are adhered to. Those who own pools Brisbane must be conscientious about keeping up to date on current laws. Changes to pool fencing laws must be complied with, without exception.