Temporary vs Standard Pool Fencing
Pool fencing is crucial in both Australia and WA pool fencing requirements ensure the safety of your pool area for family, friends and loved ones.
If you’re considering what the right fencing solution may be for your needs, you might be wondering about the differences in pool fence compliance between temporary fencing solutions and standard ones. There can be a lot of confusion about when each type of fencing is required, what the compliance requirements are and when you should use temporary vs permanent pool fencing.
This article is designed to be a general guide only. For custom advice, please reach out directly to our team here at WA Temporary Fencing Supplies.
What is Temporary Pool Fencing?
Temporary pool fencing is exactly what it sounds like: A fencing solution that is not designed for indefinite or permanent use. Nevertheless, it is a compliant barrier used in the short term and is often found around construction or renovation projects, as well as emergency situations. However, it can also be used for portable personal pools or for use whilst permanent fences are being repaired.
Whilst short-term in nature, temporary pool fencing is still required to meet safety and legal requirements in WA.
These include:
- Ensuring a minimum height of at least 1.2 metres
- Ensuring there are no climbable gaps or footholds in the fencing
- Ensuring the gap between the ground and the bottom of the fence is no larger than 10cm
- Ensuring that the fence does not move and is stable enough to not be movable (by weather or force)
- If a gate is present, ensures that the gate latch itself is at least 1.5 meters from the ground
- Ensuring the fencing meets all the relevant AS 1926.1 standards for pool safety barriers
Temporary Vs Permanent Pool Fencing
In contrast, permanent pool fencing is a long-term safety barrier that is designed for ongoing protection and safety around your pool. As a fixed structure, it is generally integrated into the design of the property and pool itself and often made from durable, permanent materials such as glass, metal and/or wood.
Residential and commercial swimming pools typically use permanent fencing unless they are undergoing renovation or repairs.
As with temporary fencing, permanent fencing needs to meet all of the essential compliance points above. Being a long-term solution, however, your permanent pool fence also needs to be durable and weather-resistant enough to not degrade over time and undermine its own safety efficacy.
When to Use Temporary vs Permanent Pool Fencing
For any pool in Western Australia, permanent fencing – compliant with safety regulations – is a legal requirement.
As mentioned above, temporary fencing may be used during periods of construction, repair, renovation and emergencies when maintaining a permanent fence is not possible.
Is a temporary fence always required?
The following scenarios require compliant temporary pool fencing:
- Water depth – If the depth of water in the pool exceeds 30 cm during the construction/repair/renovation, a compliant pool fence/barrier is required
- Permanent fence removal – If the permanent fence is removed for maintenance or repair, a temporary solution must be installed for the duration of the works
- Portable or above-ground pools – Any pool – whether it is above-ground or a portable one – needs to have a temporary fence (if not permanent) if the above water depth threshold is reached
Common Misunderstandings About Pool Fence Compliance WA
Myth 1
There are fewer safety standards for temporary fences than permanent ones.
Fact 1
Temporary fences have the same and must meet the same safety and compliance standards as permanent fences. When it comes to height, type, and gate requirements, there is no difference between permanent and temporary fencing in WA.
Myth 2
Portable pools do not need fencing if they are not kept for a long period of time.
Fact 2
Any pool deeper than 30 cm, whether or not it is permanent, requires compliant fencing.
Myth 3
Temporary fencing that meets the pool fencing regulations in WA can be used indefinitely.
Fact 3
Temporary pool fencing is not a permanent barrier solution. It is allowed for specific and short-term situations, but it must be replaced by a permanent fencing solution that meets regulations as soon as the construction, renovation or repair work is completed.
Premium Provider of Temporary Pool Fencing Hire in WA
To ensure safety and regulatory compliance, make sure you have a permanent pool fencing solution for your pool.
If you are undergoing some work in and around your pool area and need a temporary fencing solution, there is no better provider than WA Temporary Fencing supplies.
We offer fully compliant, perfectly maintained and highly effective temporary pool fencing hire across WA. Our solutions are budget friendly, easy to install (with panels able to be lifted by one person) and specifically designed for use in pool construction/renovation applications.
Securing your pool during times of disruption doesn’t just offer pool fence compliance but complete peace of mind knowing you and your loved ones are safe.
So, whether you’re still wondering what sort of fencing solution best suits your needs or would like a cost-free and obligation-free quote for temporary pool fencing hire, make sure to reach out to our team today.
