SPASA welcomes release of pool barrier standard AS1926.1

September 2, 2024

The Swimming Pool & Spa Association (SPASA) has welcomed the publication of the updated Australian Standard AS1926.1, marking a significant milestone in pool safety and regulation after nearly seven years of dedicated effort and two rigorous draft iterations.

This new standard embodies SPASA’s commitment to enhancing safety and simplifying compliance for the benefit of both industry professionals and pool owners across Australia.

Commenting on the new standard, Lindsay McGrath, Chief Executive of SPASA and a member of the committee that developed the new standard, advised “through the comprehensive review of the AS1926.1 process, SPASA has worked tirelessly to propose and refine changes to the Australian Standard with a clear, shared objective: to reinforce safety, ensure clarity, and facilitate practical solutions within the pool and spa industry.

“The updated standard also reflects a more modern approach to pool barrier standards, demonstrating a keen focus on practical solutions that will collectively save the industry hundreds of millions of dollars.

“By simplifying complex requirements and integrating contemporary practices, the new standard significantly improves the safety landscape for pool owners and users. It also seeks to simplify compliance while continuing to foster a secure and enjoyable pool environment. These improvements align with SPASA’s goal to deliver a framework that both supports regulatory compliance as well as enhancing the overall pool experience for all Australians.”

Royal Life Saving Society - Australia General Manager - Capability & Industry, RJ Houston added “according to the latest National Drowning Report, there was a 25% reduction in drowning incidents among children under five last year compared to the 10-year average. This improvement underscores the crucial role of effective safety barriers in preventing unsupervised access to residential pools, emphasising the importance of national consistency in applying the updated AS 1926.1."

The updated standard is more than just a regulatory guideline; it serves as a vital resource for pool and spa professionals, providing them with the tools and knowledge needed to navigate and implement safety measures effectively. SPASA’s rigorous and practical approach to compliance ensures that the standard not only meets current safety requirements, but also builds on existing needs in pool and spa practices.

SPASA extends its thanks to Standards Australia and all stakeholders involved in the revision process, whose invaluable contributions have made this achievement possible. The collaborative effort underscores the industry’s commitment to continuous improvement and innovation, driving positive change across Australia’s pool and spa sector.

Image credit: Royal Life Saving Society - Australia.

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