With a number of assessments standards available it is important to understand that what is permitted on one property may not be permitted on the neighbouring property. As the standards and regulations changed over time so we’re the rules, measurements and and guidelines for pool fencing. The Victorian program requires pool owners to comply with the rules and regulations that were in force at the time of pool or spas construction.
In Victoria we use five different assessment standards to assess pool barriers each with their own intricacies. To reference this against similar programs in Australia, other states that have narrowed this down to fewer than two standards. The right advice can save time and money when it comes to achieving your certificate of compliance. A common issue observed are repairs that are conducted to the incorrect standard or barriers that have been installed without consideration of the associated requirements of the applicable standard. The variances between standards need to be achieved to ensure compliance and they need to be in place when time comes for a formal barrier inspection and certificate issue. These mistakes can be costly to rectify and could be avoided by just picking up the phone and having a chat.
Below are examples of how the different standards, when applied incorrectly can cause compliance issues for the pool owner.
Clear Space
Clear space or non-climbable zone changes throughout standards. For internal barriers the earlier standards apply at 1200 mm clear space where as the latest standards provide for a 900 mm non-climbable zone. The reduction in clear space of the standards takes into account addition requirements. Boundary fencing has a number of other different requirements!
When assessing old fencing there are particular dimensions that apply. These dimensions have changed over time and we often see very early fencing struggling to comply with these standards. The height from the lowest horizontal member to the top horizontal member has three different options depending on the applicable standard. If this dimensions are not observed then the fencing will require replacing. These dimensions also apply to horizontal footholds made by attachment of hinges. Hinges are required to be located in very particular places with the correct gaps to ensure that the horizontal component is eliminated from assessment. A problem in the image above. See the image below for actual fencing dimensions for the AS1926.1-1993 Standard. Applicable to pools up to 2010.
The documents used to assess your pool barrier cannot cater for ‘every site-specific scenario’. There is no one size fits all. During any inspection the inspector has to do is ensure the generic requirements of the standard can be applied to the situation they are observing. What we aim to do is provide cost effective solutions and advice that will facilitate compliance.
Much like any other renovation or repair, the age-old saying measure twice, cut once can save a significant amount of money down the track when times comes to certify a pool barrier. The right advice at the start can ensure smooth certification when the time comes. One area we see very strong demand is for the advice, assessment and consultancy services. This service is used by builders, landscapers pool fence installers and should be considered by any pool owner who is either looking to redo their pool area or just needs to know how to ensure they comply with the applicable Australian Standard relevant to their pool. To book in or discuss a service to suit your needs contact us on 0409254681 or drop us an email at info@chordline.com.au
