Pool Gates
Swimming Pool Gate Requirements
Gates used in a swimming pool barrier have specific requirements and are a leading cause of pools not passing their safety inspection.
Direction of Swing
Gates must be hung so that they only swing outwards, i.e. away from the pool area.
Self Closing Device
Gates must be fitted with a device which automatically returns the gate to the closed and latched position from a stationary start and without the application of any manual force.This must occur from any unlatched position of the gate, i.e. from fully or partially or only just opened.
Latching Device
Gates must be fitted with a latching device that will operate automatically when the gate closes and will prevent the gate from being re-opened without being manually released.
Latches must not be able to be inadvertently adjusted during operation, locked in the ‘open’ position or adjusted without the use of tools.
If the release mechanism for the latching device is lower than 1500mm above the finished ground level or 1400mm above the highest lower horizontal member of the fence the release mechanism shall:
- not be on the outside of the fencing;
- be in such a position that to release the latching device from the outside of the fence it will be necessary to reach over or through the fencing at a height of not less than 1200mm above the finished ground level or not less than 1000mm above the highest lower horizontal member of the fence;
- be at least 150mm below the top of the gate if a hand-hole is not provided, or at least 150 mm below the edge of any hand-hole opening if a hand-hole opening is provided.
Hinges
Hinges with a diameter of 10mm of more are considered climbable unless they are fitted with a safety cap. Ensure that hinges are spaced 900 mm or more apart.
Gap under Gate
There must not be a gap of more than 100 mm between the gate and the finished ground when the gate is in the closed position.
Reference
The requirements for swimming pool gates are laid down in Australian Standard AS1926.1 Section 2.5