September 28, 2021
Toowoomba Regional Council is reminding residents that any pool that can hold 30cm or more of water – even temporary inflatable pools – must have a compliant swimming pool safety barrier in place at all times.
Cr Tim McMahon said now was the time to inspect and carry out maintenance on existing swimming pools to ensure they met Queensland Pool Safety Standards.
“Since December 1, 2015, all regulated Queensland swimming pools must comply with the pool safety laws,” Cr McMahon said.
“All residential swimming pools must have a Building Approval for the Swimming Pool and Pool Safety Barrier and they must be registered with the Queensland Building and Construction Commission.”
Cr McMahon said home owners could check or register properties on the pool safety register online
“If you are selling or buying a property with a swimming pool, please check the requirements,” Cr McMahon said.
“Property owners are still required to maintain a compliant barrier at all times, even if this means erecting a temporary pool fence that complies with the requirements while the permanent fence undergoes maintenance.
“Residents who are unsure about any of these safety aspects can engage a licensed pool safety inspector to conduct a full safety audit or find further information at www.qbcc.qld.gov.au/home-building-owners/pool-safety/overview
“Council will enforce the law if it is made aware of inadequately fenced pools, however this is not an issue of compliance. The pool safety laws are about saving lives,” Cr McMahon said.
“Inflatables are in some ways more dangerous than bigger pools, due to the low set-up costs, collapsible sides and a lack of education when they are sold at retail outlets.
“More importantly, residents with inflatables pools, or any pool, must supervise their children when they are near water.”
- External link: TRC Information About Pools and Spas
