M&PR 8C Building Commission Media Release
Media Release
From the Building Commission
12 October 2009
Inflatable, underground or above ground – if it contains water, it can be deadly
With the warmer months approaching, Victorians need to act now to ensure swimming
pools and spas are as safe as possible.
Victorian Building and Plumbing Industry Commissioner, Tony Arnel has issued a
warning to all Victorians that the responsibility for safety barrier maintenance applies to
all home-owners with a pool or spa, regardless of whether they have children living there
or not.
“It doesn’t matter if it is inflatable, underground, above ground, a plunge pool or a spa - if
it contains even a small amount of water it can become a death trap,” Mr Arnel said.
“Every private swimming pool or spa capable of containing a depth of water exceeding
300mm must have a childproof safety barrier. The importance of adequate and safe
fencing around home pools and spas cannot be underestimated.
“Properly maintained safety barriers around pools are vital to help secure the safety, not
only of the home-owners’ children, but also that of friends’ and neighbours’ children.
“Furthermore, if you don’t comply with the regulations you risk a fine of up to $5,800,” he
said.
Mr Arnel added that drowning is the most common cause of preventable death for
children under five years of age in Victoria.
Pool fencing significantly reduces the risk of drowning, with research showing the risk of
drowning in a fenced pool is about one quarter of that of drowning in an unfenced pool.
“I cannot stress more the importance of complying with swimming pool and spa building
regulations as they will help save young childrens’ lives over summer,” he said.
“While these measures will undoubtedly save lives, it is the responsibility of swimming
pool and spa homeowners to use safety barriers wisely. Additionally, when children are
near water adult supervision is essential.”
The Building Commission’s free brochure on what you need to know about swimming
pool and spa safety barriers is available by ordering from the ‘Publications and Fact
The brochure is also available through all local Victorian councils.
For further information please contact Anne Pavey from the Commissions on 03-9285-6474 or
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