Pool Equipment Near Pool Fences

Many swimming pool owners are surprised to learn that perfectly ordinary pool equipment can create a pool safety compliance issue.

At Pool Compliance Gold Coast, one of the most common reasons we issue a Form 26 (Nonconformity Notice) is because pool equipment has been positioned too close to the safety barrier, creating a climbable object for a young child.

Why Pool Equipment Can Be a Safety Hazard

Queensland’s pool safety laws are designed to prevent children under five years of age from gaining unsupervised access to a swimming pool.

Even if your pool fence and gates fully comply with the legislation, equipment placed nearby may allow a child to climb over the barrier.

Children are naturally curious and can use everyday objects as steps or platforms to reach the top of a fence. Once over the barrier, they may gain unrestricted access to the pool.

Common Pool Equipment That Can Cause Non-Compliance

During inspections, we regularly find items such as:

  • Pool pumps
  • Pool filters
  • Chlorinators
  • Heat pumps
  • Pool heaters
  • Pool cleaning equipment
  • Pool vacuum trolleys
  • Chemical storage containers
  • Pool toys stored against the fence
  • Maintenance equipment and tools

 

While each property is different, these items can become a compliance issue if they are positioned within the non-climbable zone of the pool barrier.

 

The Non-Climbable Zone

Queensland pool safety legislation requires a clear non-climbable zone around the pool fence.

If pool equipment provides a foothold or handhold within this zone, it may allow a child to climb over the barrier, making the fence non-compliant.

Many homeowners install new equipment years after the original pool fence was approved, without realising the equipment’s location may affect compliance.

Relocating Equipment

In many cases, the solution is straightforward.

Equipment can often be relocated further away from the fence, repositioned to another side of the property, or screened in a way that maintains compliance while still allowing easy access for servicing.

Every property is different, so the most appropriate solution will depend on the layout of your pool area.

Planning Before Installing New Equipment

If you’re replacing an old pool pump, adding a heat pump, or upgrading your filtration system, it’s worth considering the location before installation begins.

A few minutes of planning can avoid unnecessary relocation costs or delays when obtaining your Pool Safety Certificate.

Professional Advice Before Your Inspection

If you’re unsure whether your pool equipment may affect your pool safety barrier, it’s often better to have it checked before booking a final inspection.

At Pool Compliance Gold Coast, we regularly provide practical, cost-effective advice to help property owners achieve compliance with the minimum amount of work.

Whether you’re selling your home, leasing a rental property, or simply ensuring your family is protected, we’ll explain exactly what is required and recommend the most practical solution.

Need a Pool Safety Inspection?

Pool Compliance Gold Coast provides professional pool safety inspections throughout the Gold Coast.

If your pool equipment, fencing or gates may affect compliance, we can assess your pool safety barrier, explain any issues in plain English, and help you obtain your Pool Safety Certificate as quickly as possible.

Pool Compliance Gold Coast
Licensed Queensland Pool Safety Inspector
Phone: 0422 966 774
Email: info@poolcompliancegoldcoast.com.au