In New South Wales, we are fortunate to have sunny weather for the majority of the year. This makes swimming pools a valuable investment. With a growing population living in strata communities, the allure of a pool within the scheme can be highly appealing. However, with the high density of people living in strata, potential risks associated with pool safety are prominent. Below we have shared some pool safety tips and New South Wales pool regulations.   New South Wales Pool Compliance  In a strata or community scheme, all of the lot owners jointly own any swimming pool or spa pool that is on common property. The owners corporation is responsible for ensuring such pools are compliant with the Swimming Pools Act 1992.  Fencing  The regulations below must be met at all times: 

• Ensure that pools are surrounded with a child-resistant safety barrier that separates the swimming pool(s) from any residential building and any place adjoining the property. 
• Keep the doors and gates closed that provide access to the swimming pool. 
• Ensure fences surrounding pools are designed, constructed, installed and maintained to comply with the relevant Australian Standards.  

CPR Signage  In case of an emergency, the law requires that you have a cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) sign displayed near your pool.  The sign must be in good condition and able to read easily from 3 meters.  From 1 September 2019, new CPR signs come into effect. From this time, all new pools must use the updated signage. Owners of existing pools aren’t required to update their signage unless the pool barrier is substantially altered or rebuilt.   Signage for pools under construction or renovation  For pools under construction a sign must be displayed: “This swimming pool isn’t to be occupied or used”. The sign must be displayed at all times while the pool is under construction and only removed once a certificate of compliance or occupation certificate has been issued.  

In addition to the above, below are a few items to stay on the lookout for around your pool: 

• That the gate is self-closing and latches automatically; 
• That there is clear CPR signage on display; 
• That there is no damage to the fence or barriers surrounding the pool; and 
• That young children are supervised at all times. 

Pool safety in apartment   Local councils all over the country work hard to enforce the government regulations. However, it is the role of the Owners Corporation or Building Manager to ensure that the pool is maintained to a high standard at all times. In saying this, pool safety is something that everyone in strata living can work together to achieve by keeping an eye out for anything around the pool that might jeopardise the safety of your friends, family and neighbours.  Pool Safety Tips Summary 

• Always supervise children in or around pools or spas. 
• Ensure your pool is fenced (and complies with pool safety standards). 
• Ensure your pool gate opens away from the pool area. 
• Ensure gardens are maintained around the pool to make sure children cannot climb into the pool area. 

If you have any concerns about the safety or maintenance of the pool in your Owners Corporation, please notify your Building Manager or Owners Corporation Manager directly. They can assist with maintaining compliance and keeping the pool safe and enjoyable for all. To contact SSKB, please click here.