Temporary Pool Fencing Requirements in Queensland

Like the rest of Australia, Queensland has regulations in place regarding the use of temporary fencing when constructing a new pool or renovating an existing one. Therefore, anyone planning on undertaking these works must know what those regulations are.

The Requirements at a Glance

Temporary pool fencing in Queensland must adhere to the following requirements:

• Panels must be 1200mm high and most not contain openings greater than 100mm.
• Climbing points must be at least 900mm apart from one another.
• There should be a consistent gap under the fence, and this gap should be no more than 100mm.
• Gates should be integrated and self-closing. The latches should be at least 1500mm from the ground.
• Fencing should always be in like-new condition.
• The overall structure and assembly should be strong.

When Do I Need to Install Temporary Pool Fencing?

What constitutes a “swimming pool”?  The definition may encompass more than you realise!

A swimming pool is defined as an above or below ground structure principally used for swimming or bathing and includes some models of portable pools and spas. If your portable pool or spa can hold more than 300mm of water, has a volume of more than 2000 litres or has a filtration system, then the new laws may apply to you.

Any pool that contains more than 300mm of water is classified as a functioning pool, meaning that it is covered by the regulations. Note that the water does not necessarily have to be water that you have added. If there is enough rainfall to deposit 300mm of water in your pool, then it will be classed as a functioning pool.

The Queensland regulations are definitive, any pool that is either under construction or being renovated must be protected by a temporary barrier which adequately fences off the swimming pool area. The costs of doing so are small as compared to the fines for breaching the regulations.

Is Temporary Fencing Worth It?

The primary purpose of putting temporary fencing around your pool during construction is to ensure that it is safe for people to be around and to reduce the risk of drowning, especially for young children. Even if there is no water in your pool, it is a good idea to erect temporary fencing to reduce the risk of falling into the void. Again, the costs of doing so are small as compared to the serious injuries which could be sustained.

Some people are apprehensive about erecting temporary fencing because they are concerned about the quality. However, temporary fencing can be robust and if you choose the right fencing, it will dramatically increase the safety of your construction area.

Centenary Hire offers a temporary fencing solution that is ideal for protecting your pool while it is under construction. Look through our website to see if we have what you need, read through our free Pool Safety Compliance guide and place your order today.

If you would like any guidance or have any questions, please do not hesitate to talk with our friendly team at the Hire Desk. Copyright Centenary Hire 2020. All Rights Reserved. This article may not be used without consent from the author. See below for more details.

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