MUNICIPAL POOL & SPA SAFETY PLAN GUIDELINE for Council’s Administration and Enforcement of Building Regulations 5.13 & 5.13A August 2003 CONTENTS PREFACE ..................................................................................................................................................... 3 THE ADMINISTRATION AND ENFORCEMENT OF REGULATION 5.13 OF THE BUILDING REGULATIONS 1994.................................................................................................................................. 4 PURPOSE ..................................................................................................................................................... 4 BACKGROUND ............................................................................................................................................. 4 RECOMMENDATIONS ................................................................................................................................... 6 POLICY OPTIONS...................................................................................................................................... 7 A REACTIVE POLICY ................................................................................................................................... 7 A PROACTIVE POLICY ................................................................................................................................. 7 AN EDUCATION POLICY .............................................................................................................................. 8 THE REACTIVE POLICY ......................................................................................................................... 9 BACKGROUND ............................................................................................................................................. 9 PROCEDURE................................................................................................................................................. 9 THE PROACTIVE POLICY .....................................................................................................................12 BACKGROUND ............................................................................................................................................12 PROCEDURE................................................................................................................................................12 THE EDUCATION POLICY .....................................................................................................................14 BACKGROUND ............................................................................................................................................14 PROCEDURE................................................................................................................................................14 ASSOCIATED DOCUMENTS ..................................................................................................................16 REACTIVE LETTER TO OWNER (L1) ............................................................................................................16 LETTER RE FIRST INSPECTION TO OWNER (L2) ............................................................................................18 LETTER REGARDING CHANGE OF INSPECTION DATE (L3) ............................................................................20 LETTER WITH BUILDING ORDER (L4) .........................................................................................................21 ENFORCEMENT PROCESS (L4-1) .................................................................................................................22 BUILDING ORDER MINOR WORK (O1) .......................................................................................................24 EMERGENCY ORDER (O2) ..........................................................................................................................26 LETTER RE 2ND INSPECTION (L5) ...............................................................................................................28 LETTER RE FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH ORDER (L6) ....................................................................................29 REFERRAL TO SOLICITOR (L7) ...................................................................................................................30 FURTHER IDEAS FOR PUBLIC AWARENESS ...................................................................................31 FLOWCHART FOR ADMINISTRATION AND ENFORCEMENT PROCESS FOR SWIMMING POOLS AND SPAS (INFO 1).....................................................................................................................32 GENERAL INFORMATION SHEET (INFO 2) ......................................................................................33 GUIDE FOR POOL & SPA BARRIERS BUILDING REGULATION 5.13 (INFO 3) ........................35 MAINTENANCE OF SWIMMING POOL & SPA BARRIERS (REG5.13A) (INFO 4) .....................40 IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR SWIMMING POOL & SPA OWNERS (INFO 5) ..................41 FLOWCHART FOR MBS FOR ADMINISTRATION & ENFORCEMENT ......................................42 2 PREFACE The Municipal Pool and Spa Safety Plan Guideline has been produced through the co-operation of the Victorian Swimming Pool and Spa Safety Working Party and the Victorian Municipal Building Surveyors Group Inc (VMBSG Inc). The Guideline has been produced by John Hoey of Hoeys Lawyers with input from municipal building surveyors from throughout Victoria in addition to input from the Victorian Swimming Pool and Spa Safety Working Party, a sub committee of the VMBSG Inc and Mike Smith of CTL P/L. The Guideline is believed to be suitable for use as a basis for the creation of more detailed policies by Councils as well as providing municipal building surveyors with a simplified and uniform procedure for the administration and enforcement of regulation 5.13 & 5.13A of the Building Regulations 1994. The Guideline does not purport to encompass or be suitable for all situations. The individual discretions of Council remain. The determination of the individual policies to be adopted is a matter for individual Councils. This Guideline provides the starting point for Councils to establish effective policies according to their needs and resourcing abilities. Individual Councils may choose to amend the ‘proforma’ letters and orders to suit their individual requirements but should seek advice when doing so. 3 THE ADMINISTRATION AND ENFORCEMENT OF REGULATION 5.13 OF THE BUILDING REGULATIONS 1994 Purpose To inform Council of its responsibilities under the Building Act 1993 (“the Act”) and in particular regulation 5.13 of the Building Regulations 1994 which requires the erection of barriers around swimming pools and spas constructed prior to April 1991 and to assist Council in creating a policy with regard to the administration and enforcement of that regulation that is consistent with other regulatory agencies including councils throughout Victoria. The use of policies by Councils has long been recognised by the courts as a means of Councils determining how (due to the many responsibilities held) limited resources are to be allocated. By having an appropriate policy in place Council will both reduce its exposure to risk and provide guidance to Council officers on how the regulation is to be administered. Background Council is required by section 212 of the Building Act 1993 (“the Act”) to administer and enforce specified parts of that Act and the whole of the Building Regulations 1994 (“the Regulations”) within its municipal boundaries. As with many other responsibilities, Council has the ability to determine how it will carry out these functions having regard to competing obligations and limited resources. Regulation 5.13 of the Regulations deals with the erection of swimming pool/spa barriers in respect of pools/spas constructed prior to 1991. Pools/spas constructed after that date were required, as part of the building permit, to include as part of the construction, barriers in accordance with the relevant Australian Standard. Prior to 1991 there was no such requirement. As a result of increasing public concern regarding the number of drownings of young children in swimming pools, the state government initiated the Victorian Swimming Pool and Spa Working Party. The purpose of the Working Party was to develop strategies to 4 reduce the incidence of toddler drowning and achieve an improved safety record for domestic pools and spas. A number of strategies were identified by the Working Party including the development of a statewide database on the location of pools and spas and a number of regulatory amendments. The Working Party recognised that there needs to be greater public awareness and a more consistent approach between regulatory agencies in the delivery of pool safety messages. The underlying obligations contained in regulation 5.13 (to provide suitable pool/spa barriers) have been in force for a number of years. The State Government and some Councils have advertised the requirements of regulation 5.13 on many occasions. Despite this advertising, anecdotal evidence suggests that only a relatively small number of swimming pools/spas have the requisite barriers in place. Further anecdotal evidence is that compliance does not occur until Council actively enforces the regulation. One outer metropolitan Council has reported 100% compliance in respect of every pool for which enforcement action has been taken. The administration and enforcement of the Regulation has generally been on an ad hoc basis in most Councils and the degree of administration and enforcement has varied greatly between municipal districts. Few councils have a policy in place that deals with how the administration and enforcement is to take place. A recent study in New Zealand into the effectiveness of the swimming pool fencing requirements of that country (which is also enforced through Local Government), revealed two major factors limiting the effectiveness of the relevant pool fencing legislation: (1) Inconsistencies between authorities in their enforcement; and (2) Some authorities making little attempt to locate pools or monitor compliance. By introducing standardised procedures combined with policies on the use of those procedures it is anticipated that a greater level of community compliance will be achieved, thus reducing the risk of death (or injury) in private swimming pools/spas. At 5 the same time, Councils will be able to document their compliance with section 212 of the Building Act and know that the responsibility given by that Act is being administered in a responsible manner. Recommendations 1. That Council adopt a [ insert type of policy] Policy as set out herein. 2. That Council adopt an Education Policy as set out herein. 3. That this Policy be administered by the Municipal Building Surveyor and the Building Department. 4. That the Council resource the Building Department such that the Policies can be properly administered. 6 POLICY OPTIONS There are three principal policy options available to council to administer and enforce regulation 5.13. These options are not mutually exclusive but all may be adopted in part : A Reactive Policy A reactive policy is one where Council only enforces the regulatory requirements when it becomes aware of a specific (or potential) non-compliance. The Court has determined in numerous cases (including the well known case of Pyrenees Shire Council v Day) that in circumstances where a Council becomes aware of a danger to persons or property and Council has the statutory ability to cause the danger to be abated, the community expects Councils to take such action. A failure to take action in those circumstances could result in a finding of negligence against the Council. All Councils should, as part of their risk management process, have in place a policy that identifies the processes to be followed upon becoming aware of a non-compliant (or potentially non-compliant) swimming pool/spa barrier. A Proactive Policy A proactive policy is one where Council actively seeks out non-compliances and takes appropriate enforcement action. The degree of ‘proactiveness’ may vary. To be proactive it is necessary to : (a) Identify the location of swimming pools/spas in the municipality (b) Have a programme of inspections of those swimming pools/spas (c) Publicise that Council has a proactive policy and will be conducting inspections (d) Determine whether those inspections are to be selective or be systematic (e) Have a subsequent follow up programme (f) Have suitable staff to conduct those inspections 7 An Education Policy An education policy is one where Council makes available to the community sufficient information for persons to understand the legal requirements and the reasons for those requirements. An education policy may be passive or active. A passive education policy is one where material is made available as handouts etc at Council offices whereas an active education policy will use the media and other resources to educate as many members of the community as possible. An education policy however must be used in combination with either a reactive or proactive enforcement policy. 8 THE REACTIVE POLICY Background Council and its Municipal Building Surveyor have responsibility for ensuring that known breaches of the Building Regulations 1994 (‘the Building Regulations”) that may cause a danger or be a risk to persons or property in the municipal district are treated so that the danger or risk is as far as possible, minimized or removed. Regulation 5.13 of the Regulations requires domestic swimming pools/spas that were installed or approved to be installed, prior to 8 April 1991, to have barriers to restrict the access to the part of the allotment containing the swimming pool or spa, by young children. Swimming pools and spas constructed after that date ought to have erected fencing as part of construction. Council recognises and accepts that a swimming pool or spa that does not have the barriers required by Regulation 5.13 represents a danger to young children. Council recognises and accepts therefore that Council is required to take necessary action to remove or abate that danger. Council officers, upon becoming aware of any domestic swimming pool or spa within the municipal district that does not have the required barriers, will utilise the procedure set out below to bring about compliance. Procedure 1) Upon becoming aware of a potential non compliant barrier the designated Council Officer will write to the property owner advising of that there is concern that the pool/spa at the property may not comply with the Building Regulations and that an inspection will take place on a set date. A copy of relevant information sheets will be 9 sent with that letter. This will take place within [ ] days of being notified of the potential non compliance. 2) The designated Council Officer will inspect the subject property within [ insert ] days. 3) Upon inspection, in the event there is no barrier or the barrier in place does not comply with regulation 5.13, a Building Order for Minor Work [on the basis that the municipal building surveyor is of the opinion that the barrier is minor work] will be issued pursuant to section 113 of the Building Act. The building order will be in the form as set out in the appendix attached hereto and will (generally) allow the owner 30 days in which to erect a compliant barrier. 4) In the event as determined by the municipal building surveyor, the individual circumstances warrant the erection of a barrier in a period of time less than 30 days, an Emergency Order under section 102 of the Building Act will be issued. 5) Any order issued will be accompanied by a copy of regulation 5.13 and associated educational handouts providing information on how to comply with the order and advising as to when the next inspection will take place. 6) The time for compliance under the order may be extended provided proper grounds for doing so are provided. 7) At the end of the time for compliance, the swimming pool will again be inspected. If no genuine action has been taken by the homeowner to comply with the order, the matter will be referred to Council’s solicitor for prosecution (for breaches of regulation 5.13 and section 118 of the Building Act) and enforcement through section 253 of the Building Act, being an order of the court requiring compliance. A letter in the form as set out in the appendix will be sent to the owner advising of the referral to Council’s solicitor and providing a final opportunity to comply. 10 8) If at the time of that inspection the homeowner has attempted to comply with the building order but there are minor matters still outstanding, the homeowner will be advised of a time at which a further inspection will be carried out and that if there is still non compliance at that time enforcement action may be taken. 9) If a further inspection is required as a result of the barrier not being fully compliant, following that further inspection, the relevant Council officer may determine to refer the matter at that time to Council’s solicitor for enforcement action. 11 THE PROACTIVE POLICY Background Council and its municipal building surveyor recognise and accept that the obligations placed upon Council by section 212 of the Building Act, being to administer and enforce the Building Regulations, requires more of Council than responding to complaints regarding non compliant swimming pool/spa fences. Council therefore determines that in addition to the introduction of a reactive policy in respect of regulation 5.13, it will adopt a proactive policy of administration and enforcement in respect of that regulation. This policy is aimed at ensuring that eventually all swimming pools and spas in the municipality are compliant with the regulation. Procedure 1) Council officers will create a database of all swimming pools and spas in the municipality. The database can be created by analysing existing records and/or by the use of aerial photography. It is acknowledged that aerial photography may not identify all pools and spas and existing records will also not include all existing pools and spas. The database, even if not complete, is essential for: a) Determining the number of pools and spas in the municipality, which is required so as to enable the level of risk to be assessed b) Determining the level of resources required c) Identifying swimming pools and spas constructed both before and after 1991 so as to enable if necessary an enforcement program with respect to regulation 5.13 and 5.13A d) Identifying addresses for ‘direct mailing’ campaigns e) Determining the effectiveness of relevant policies. 2) The database will be complete by [ insert ] 12 3) A review of the database will be carried out to determine an appropriate program of inspections including the numbers to be inspected per week (the inspection target) and the resources to be allocated for that work. The review will also determine the objective criteria on which the properties to be inspected are determined (for example it may be determined to inspect every known pool in particular streets or alternately in particular areas or by the age of the pool). 4) Upon inspecting a property and identifying a non compliant barrier the procedure set out in the “Reactive Policy” will be utilised to bring about compliance. 5) Reports will be prepared every [ insert ] months identifying : a) The number of pools/spas inspected b) The number of pools/spas that at 1st inspection required no further action c) The number of building orders issued d) The number of building orders complied with in the specified period e) The number of building orders referred for legal proceedings f) The number of emergency orders issued g) The number of emergency orders referred for legal proceedings h) The number of matters outstanding It is anticipated that the introduction of a proactive policy may require additional staff. 13 THE EDUCATION POLICY Background Council recognises that in administering regulation 5.13, it is necessary to educate homeowners on their legal responsibilities to comply with the regulation and the underlying reason for the regulation itself. Council recognises that section 212 of the Building Act places a significant responsibility on Council to ensure that the community is fully informed. Council adopts therefore a policy that is both passive and active in that appropriate handouts etc can be obtained at council offices in addition to Council conducting direct mail out campaigns and using media where possible. Council will seek to ensure the maximum possible cover is being achieved. Procedure The following is not a detailed procedure in respect of educational steps. Rather the following sets out a variety of measures that may be taken to increase community awareness. Steps 1 to 4 however, identify some basic steps that Council will commence with. 1) Council’s policies with respect of regulation 5.13 will be printed and made available in pamphlet form to the public 2) A direct mail out campaign will take place following the establishment of a database the mail out campaign to include the flow charts appended to this policy identifying the options available to pool owners and the consequences of non compliance. 3) A series of articles on pool safety will be prepared for the local newspaper 4) Enforcement action will be publicised to create greater public awareness of the consequences for non compliance. 14 5) Pool Shops, Childcare Centres, libraries and other public buildings to be asked to distribute (via the counter) pamphlets and other public awareness material 6) Information to be sent out with rates notices 7) The use of telephone recordings to be investigated 8) A program of displays to be arranged 9) Advertisements in local newspapers 10) Information and appropriate links on Council’s website 11) A Report will be prepared on a yearly basis detailing all actions taken under this policy 15 ASSOCIATED DOCUMENTS Reactive Letter to Owner (L1) [COUNCIL LETTERHEAD] [Date] [Name] [Address] Re: Swimming Pool / Spa Safety Program Address: [Insert address] Dear [Insert Name] It has been brought to my attention that the swimming pool/spa at the above address may not comply with the Building Regulations requirements for barriers to prevent access by young children. Swimming pools and spas such as yours, which Council records disclose as being constructed (or approved for construction) prior to 8 April 1991, are required by regulation 5.13 of the Building Regulations 1994 (‘the Regulations’) to have barriers in place that restrict young children from accessing the pool/spa area of the allotment. Pools and spas constructed after 8 April 1991 have had this requirement from the time of construction. [ Insert name of Council] is required by the Building Act 1993 (‘the Act’) to administer and enforce the Regulations. Council has adopted a policy to assist in making the municipality as safe as possible for young children. Council as part of that strategy is inspecting all pools and spas where there is concern regarding non compliance. The purpose of the inspection is to assist and ensure pool/spa owners achieve compliance. In accordance with that program it is intended that an authorised person of Council will call at your home on [ Insert day and date ] between the hours of [ insert time frame for attendance]. Please ensure that access is available at that time. At the inspection, the authorised officer will determine whether or not your current barriers are compliant with the requirements of the Regulations. In the event that the existing barriers are not satisfactory, a building order for minor work will be issued giving you up to 30 days to erect, repair or alter the barriers to conform with the requirements of regulation 5.13. 16 Council will reinspect your property at the end of the period in the building order to ensure that the barriers are now compliant. Although it is an offence for you not to have had a compliant barrier in place in respect of your pool/spa, Council will not take action against you in that regard, providing you comply with any building order directed to you within the period nominated. In the event a building order is issued to you requiring the barrier to be brought into compliance and it is not complied with within the required period, Council will refer the matter to its solicitor for immediate action. A separate flow chart detailing the steps involved is enclosed for your assistance. Also enclosed are Information Sheets produced by Council describing what is required and providing you with a copy of Regulation 5.13. If you have any questions regarding this inspection or Council’s policy please do not hesitate to contact Council’s Building Department on [insert phone] Yours faithfully, [Name] Municipal Building Surveyor 17 Letter re first inspection to owner (L2) [COUNCIL LETTERHEAD] [Date] [Insert name] [Insert address] Re: Swimming Pool / Spa Safety Program Address: [Insert Address] Dear [Insert name], Council records disclose that you have on your property a swimming pool/ spa that was constructed (or approved for construction) prior to 8 April 1991. Swimming pools and spas such as yours, are required by regulation 5.13 of the Building Regulations 1994 (‘the Regulations’) to have barriers in place that restrict young children from accessing the pool/spa area of the allotment. Pools and spas constructed after 8 April 1991 have had this requirement from the time of construction. [ Insert name of Council] is required by the Building Act 1993 (‘the Act’) to administer and enforce the Regulations. Council has adopted a proactive policy to assist in making the municipality as safe as possible for young children. Council as part of that strategy is inspecting all such pools and spas in order to assist and ensure pool/spa owners achieve compliance. In accordance with that program it is intended that an authorised person of Council will call at your home on [ Insert day and date ] between the hours of [ insert time frame for attendance]. Please ensure that access is available at that time. At the inspection, the authorised officer will determine whether or not your current barriers are compliant with the requirements of the Regulations. In the event that the existing barriers are not satisfactory, a building order for minor work will be issued giving you up to 30 days to erect, repair or alter the barriers to conform with the requirements of regulation 5.13. Council will reinspect your property at the end of the period in the building order to ensure that the barriers are now satisfactory. Although it is an offence for you not to have had a compliant barrier in place in respect of your pool/spa, Council will not take action against you in that regard providing you 18 comply with any building order directed to you within the period nominated. In the event a building order is issued to you requiring the barrier to be brought into compliance and it is not complied with within the required period, Council will refer the matter to its solicitor for immediate action. A separate flow chart detailing the steps involved is enclosed for your assistance. Also enclosed are Information Sheets produced by Council describing what is required and providing you with a copy of Regulation 5.13. If you have any questions regarding this inspection or Council’s policy please do not hesitate to contact Council’s Building Department on [insert phone] Yours faithfully, [Name] Municipal Building Surveyor 19 Letter regarding change of inspection date (L3) [COUNCIL LETTERHEAD] [Date] [Name] [Address] Re: Swimming Pool / Spa Safety Program Address: [Insert address] Dear [Insert Name] I refer to my previous letter advising that your property was to be inspected on [insert day and date]. You have advised that this date is unsuitable for you and have requested that the inspection be conducted at another time. I confirm that an authorised officer of Council will now attend your premises on [insert day and date] between the hours of [insert times] If you have any questions regarding this inspection please contact Council’s Building department on [insert phone] Yours faithfully, [Name] Municipal Building Surveyor 20 Letter with Building Order (L4) [COUNCIL LETTERHEAD] [Date] [Insert name] [Insert address] Re: Swimming Pool / Spa Safety Program Address: [Insert Address] Dear [Insert name], I refer to the inspection of your property on [insert date] which was carried out as part of Council’s swimming pool and spa safety program. The inspection disclosed that the barriers at your property did not comply with Regulation 5.13 of the Building Regulations 1994. A failure to have a barrier in conformity with regulation 5.13 is an offence for which you could be prosecuted in the Magistrates Court. In accordance with Council’s policy on pool and spa barriers, I enclose Building Order for Minor Work issued to you pursuant to section 113 of the Building Act 1993 (‘the Act’). The Building Order requires you to construct a barrier in compliance with Regulation 5.13 within 30 days. IF YOU COMPLY WITH THE BUILDING ORDER WITHIN THE TIME STIPULATED NO FURTHER ACTION WILL BE TAKEN. At the end of the 30-day period an inspection will again be undertaken by an authorised officer of Council. Providing the building order has been complied with, no further action will be taken. In the event however that the building order has not been complied with, the matter will be referred to Council’s solicitor for the commencement of enforcement proceedings. A separate information sheet is enclosed detailing the enforcement process for your information. I also enclose Council’s Information sheets in respect of the requirements of Regulation 5.13 for your assistance. I trust that the above adequately explains to you what is required of you as a pool /spa owner. Yours faithfully, [Name] Municipal Building Surveyor 21 Enforcement Process (L4-1) [COUNCIL’S LETTERHEAD] THE ENFORCEMENT PROCESS Whilst Council has no wish to commence proceedings against pool and spa owners the failure to install compliant pool/spa barriers by some such owners represents a significant risk to the community. As such Council, in accordance with its obligations under section 212 of the Building Act 1993, is committed to bringing about compliance and if necessary prosecuting offenders for breaching Regulation 5.13. If prosecuted for breaching Regulation 5.13, pool and spa owners who have failed to comply with a Building Order for Minor Work, will also be prosecuted for that failure under section 118 of the Building Act 1993. These are criminal prosecutions which may result in the imposition by the Court of a conviction and substantial fines. The fines may be up to $15,000.00 for a natural person and $55,000.00 for a company. Council’s legal costs in conducting the enforcement process will also be sought from any offenders found guilty by the Court. Such legal costs could be many thousands of dollars. In addition to any prosecution, orders will also be sought from the Court requiring the installation of the compliant barriers. A failure to comply with any such Court orders could result in further fines or even imprisonment. The failure to comply with the requirements for pool/spa barriers could therefore be more expensive than the installation of the barriers themselves. IT IS CLEARLY IN YOUR INTERESTS AS A POOL / SPA OWNER TO ENSURE YOU HAVE BARRIERS IN PLACE THAT COMPLY WITH REGULATION 5.13. 22 If you require any further information on Council’s enforcement policy or on the requirements of Regulation 5.13 please contact the Building Department on [insert phone] 23 Building Order Minor Work (O1) [COUNCIL LETTERHEAD] BUILDING ACT 1993 BUILDING REGULATIONS 1994 BUILDING ORDER FOR MINOR WORK PURSUANT TO SECTION 113 OF THE BUILDING ACT 1993 TO THE OWNER: name address OF THE BUILDING (SWIMMING POOL) LOCATED AT: Property address WHEREAS: 1. I am the Municipal Building Surveyor of [ insert name of Council ]and I am authorised to make a building order under section 113 of the Building Act 1993 ("Act"). 2. The swimming pool was inspected on [ insert date ]; 3. This Order may be made without first serving a building notice. 4. Pursuant to section 113 of the Act, I am of the opinion that the work required to be carried out under this Order is of a minor nature. 5. The reason why this Order was issued is that: 5.1 The pool barrier provided at the above property does not comply with the requirements of regulation 5.13 of the Building Regulations 1994. NOW THEREFORE TAKE NOTICE THAT: 6. You are required to carry out the following building work required by the Building Regulations 1994: 6.1 Provide a pool/spa barrier in accordance with regulation 5.13 of the Building Regulations 1994. 7. The above work is to be carried out within 30 days of the service of this Order. 8. A building permit is/is not required for the above work DATE : [ insert date ] [ Name ] Municipal Building Surveyor Con’t NOTES: 1. Duration of Order A building order remains in force, and if amended remains in force as amended, until it is complied with or it is cancelled by the Municipal Building Surveyor or the Building Appeals Board (section 117 of the Act). 2. Amendment or Cancellation of Order If there is a change in circumstances after the service of a building order, the owner may request the Municipal Building Surveyor to amend or cancel the order pursuant to section 116 of the Act. 3. Penalty for failure to comply A person to whom a building order is directed must comply with that order [penalty: 100 penalty units in the case of a natural person and 500 penalty units in the case of a body corporate (section 118(1)). 25 Emergency Order (O2) [COUNCIL LETTERHEAD] BUILDING ACT 1993 BUILDING REGULATIONS 1994 EMERGENCY ORDER PURSUANT TO SECTION 102 OF THE BUILDING ACT 1993 TO THE OWNER: name address OF THE BUILDING (SWIMMING POOL/SPA) LOCATED AT: Property address WHEREAS: 1. I am the Municipal Building Surveyor of [ insert name of Council ]and I am authorised to make an Emergency Order under section 102 of the Building Act 1993 ("Act"). 2. The swimming pool was inspected on [ insert date ]; 3. Pursuant to section 102 of the Act, I am of the opinion that this order is necessary because of a danger to life arising out of the condition of the swimming pool/spa. 6. The reason why this Order was issued is that: 5.1 No swimming pool/spa barrier is in place to prevent access to the swimming pool /spa by young children / The swimming pool/spa barrier provided at the above property is not adequate to prevent access to the swimming pool /spa by young children [ insert as appropriate]. NOW THEREFORE TAKE NOTICE THAT: 6. You are required to carry out the following work to make the swimming pool/spa safe: 6.1 7. Provide a swimming pool/spa barrier that complies with the requirements of the Australian Standard AS1926.1 The above work is to be carried out within [ Insert ] days of the service of this Order. DATE : [ insert date ] [ Name ] Municipal Building Surveyor Con’t 26 NOTES: 1. Duration of Order A building order remains in force, and if amended remains in force as amended, until it is complied with or it is cancelled by the Municipal Building Surveyor or the Building Appeals Board (section 117 of the Act). 2. Amendment or Cancellation of Order If there is a change in circumstances after the service of a building order, the owner may request the Municipal Building Surveyor to amend or cancel the order pursuant to section 116 of the Act. 3. Penalty for failure to comply A person to whom a building order is directed must comply with that order [penalty: 100 penalty units in the case of a natural person and 500 penalty units in the case of a body corporate (section 118(1)). 27 Letter re 2nd inspection (L5) [COUNCIL LETTERHEAD] [Date] [ Insert name] [Insert address] Re: Swimming Pool / Spa Safety Program Address: [Insert Address] Dear [Insert name], I refer to the Building Order for Minor Work issued to you on [insert date of order]. That Order required you to construct a swimming pool /spa barrier in compliance with Regulation 5.13 of the Building Regulations 1994 within 30 days. In accordance with previous advice to you it is necessary to inspect your property again to determine if the building order has been complied with. An authorised officer of Council will call at your home on [insert day and date] between the hours of [insert times]. Please ensure that access is available at that time. Yours faithfully, [Name] Municipal Building Surveyor 28 Letter re failure to comply with order (L6) [COUNCIL LETTERHEAD] [Date] [ Insert name] [Insert address] Re: Swimming Pool / Spa Safety Program Address: [Insert Address] Dear [Insert name], I refer to the inspection of your property on [ insert date ]. That inspection was carried out to determine if you had as complied with the Building Order for Minor work issued to you on [insert date]. That Building Order required you to erect swimming pool /spa barriers in accordance with Regulation 5.13 within 30 days of the date of that order. The inspection of your property on [insert date] discloses that you have not complied with the Building Order. In accordance with Council’s enforcement policy regarding swimming pool / spa barriers, this matter has now been referred to Council’s solicitor to commence proceedings against you in the Magistrates Court. A document outlining Council’s enforcement process is enclosed for your information. In the event that you have now complied with the Building Order, please advise Council’s Building Department within 7 days of the date of this letter. If no such advice is received from you the legal proceedings will automatically proceed. Yours faithfully, [Name] Municipal Building Surveyor 29 Referral to Solicitor (L7) [COUNCIL LETTERHEAD] [Date] [Solicitors details] Re: Swimming Pool / Spa Safety Program [Name] [Address] Dear [Name], Please find enclosed brief of evidence consisting of: (a) Copies of all correspondence to pool/spa owner (b) Copies of all correspondence from pool/spa owner (c) Copy of file notes (d) Copy of Building Order for Minor Work (e) Copy of photographs (if any) (f) Copy of details by which the construction date of the pool/spa was determined. (g) Copy of Council rate records showing [insert name] as owner of the property. In accordance with Council’s Swimming Pool / Spa Safety Program you are requested to initiate prosecution proceedings against [insert name] for breaching regulation 5.13 of the Building Regulations and for breaching section 118 of the Building Act 1993. In addition to that prosecution you are requested to apply for an order pursuant to section 253 of the Building Act, requiring the defendant to construct the pool/spa barrier within 30 days. Yours faithfully, [Name] Municipal Building Surveyor 30 FURTHER IDEAS FOR PUBLIC AWARENESS EDUCATION Some further ideas for the dissemination (and sources) of Public Awareness material 1) Brochures & letters to pool / spa owners 2) A New Owners Kit (maintenance) 3) Media: paper, radio & local TV 4) PABX messages 5) Real Estate agents 6) Pool supply shops 7) Travelling displays 8) Libraries 9) Public buildings 10) Building Commission publications 11) Use of Council’s website with links 31 FLOWCHART FOR ADMINISTRATION AND ENFORCEMENT PROCESS FOR SWIMMING POOLS AND SPAS (Info 1) 1st LETTER/ADVISORY MATERIAL 1st INSPECTION NON COMPLIANCE ACCEPTED BUILDING ORDER /EMERGENCY ORDER NO FURTHER ACTION FURTHER LETTER 2nd INSPECTION ACCEPTED NO FURTHER ACTION NON COMPLIANCE CONSIDER EXTENSION OF TIME ADVISED TO COMPLY LETTER RE SOLICITOR 3rd INSPECTION ACCEPTED NON COMPLIANCE NO FURTHER ACTION NO RESPONSE REFER TO SOLICITOR PROSECUTE s253 ORDERS COSTS COURT ENFORCED COMPLIANCE 32 GENERAL INFORMATION SHEET (Info 2) Swimming Pool and Spa Safety Barriers Background The Building Regulations 1994 introduced a requirement that all swimming pools and spas installed before April 1991 must be provided with suitable barriers to prevent unsupervised small children entering the pool area. This was to be undertaken before July 1997. From 21 December 2001, the Regulations were amended to: require compulsory self-closers to gates and doors in barriers to pre-1991 pools and spas to take effect from 1/7/02 introduce obligations for maintenance and responsibility require building permits for new pool fencing and new pools with a depth of water of more than 300mm – regardless of the volume of water increase maximum court fines for non-compliance from $1000 to $5000. Requirements Application Regulation 5.13 of the Building Regulations applies to swimming pools and spas capable of containing a depth of water of more than 300mm and constructed or approved before 8 April 1991. The definition of swimming pool includes any excavation or structure containing water and used primarily for swimming, wading, paddling or the like, including a bathing or wading pool or spa. This will include in-ground and above-ground pools, spas, hot tubs, jacuzzis, and indoor pools. Bird baths, fish ponds, fountains and dams or the like would not be included. Barriers All pools should now have barriers. If you are the owner of a property with a pool or spa with no barrier or inadequate barriers you are responsible to immediately meet the standards of the Regulations (refer last sheet). A building permit is required for new pool fencing and may be required for alterations to existing fencing and gates. 33 In addition, from 1st July 2002 any door or gate opening to the area containing a pre1991 pool or spa must be fitted with a self-closing device: “(i) that is located not less than 1·5m above the ground, or the internal floor, level (as the case may be), measured from the approach side; and (ii) that returns the door or gate to its closed position(A) from any position in the range of positions from fully open to resting on the lock or latch; and (B) from a stationary start from any position within that range without the application of manual force.". The above applies regardless of the level of compliance before the amendment – even where Council or another adviser has agreed that barriers complied. Maintenance The Regulations require that all pool barriers (old and new pools) must be maintained to operate effectively at all times. This means that: all existing components of the barrier (eg hinges, self-closers etc) must function as intended no objects (including plants) must be located near a barrier which could take away from its effectiveness – even if on an adjoining allotment no doors or gates to the pool area are to be left open. Penalties For Non-Compliance Failure to comply may result in an on-the-spot fine of $200 or up to $5000 through the courts. In the event a building order is served requiring the installation of barriers a failure to comply with such an order may result in fines of up to $50,000. In addition to the land owner, tenants and even visitors to a pool are now responsible to meet requirements. If you have any further queries in relation to the above matters please contact Council’s Building Department on [insert phone] 34 GUIDE FOR POOL & SPA BARRIERS BUILDING REGULATION 5.13 (Info 3) CONSTRUCTED OR WHERE A BUILDING APPROVAL WAS GRANTED BEFORE 8 APRIL 1991 DEFINITIONS: “Swimming pool” means any excavation or structure containing water and used principally for swimming, wading, paddling, or the like, including a bathing or wading, or spa. EXTRACT OF 5.13 SAFETY OF EXISTING SWIMMING POOLS AND SPAS (1) This regulation applies to a swimming pool or spa(a) on an allotment containing a Class 1 or 10 building; and (b) capable of containing a depth of water exceeding 300mm; and (c) constructed, or for which building approval was granted, before 8 April 1991. (2) The owner of the swimming pool or spa must ensure that one or more of the following barriers are in place to restrict access to the part of the allotment or building containing the swimming pool or spa(a) a wall of a building, but only if-(i) any door or gate in the wall complies with sub-regulation (3); and (ii) any openable part of any window in the wall-(A) is not less than 2·4m above the ground or paving immediately external to the window; or (B) is not less than 1·5m above the floor of the room containing the window; or (C) has a catch, bolt or lock located not less than 1·5m above that floor level; or (D) has a securely fitted fly screen; (b) a fence and gate complying with AS 1926.1-1993 Fencing for swimming pools; (c) a paling, or imperforate fence if-(i) it is at least 1·5m in height measured above the ground level on the approach side; and (ii) any door or gate in the fence complies with sub-regulation (3). Penalty: 50 penalty units (3) With respect to any door or gate providing access to the part of the allotment or building containing the swimming pool or spa, the owner of the swimming pool or spa must ensure-(a) that there is a lock or latch that prevents the door or gate, if the door or gate is in its closed position, from being opened by a person unable to reach the opening mechanism for the door or gate; and (b) that the opening mechanism is located not less than 1·5m above the ground, or the internal floor, level (as the case may be), measured from the approach side; and (c) that the door or gate is fitted with a self locking or self latching device that is located not less than 1·5m above the ground, or the internal floor, level (as the case may be), measured from the approach side. Penalty: 50 penalty units. (4) In this regulation, "owner" in relation to a swimming pool or spa means-(a) in the case of a swimming pool or spa on an allotment being purchased under a terms contract (as defined in section 2 of the Sale of Land Act 1962) under which the purchaser has become entitled to possession or to the receipt of the rents and profits, the purchaser of that allotment; and (b) in the case of a swimming pool or spa on any other allotment, the owner of that allotment. 35 IMPORTANT NOTES (1) As of 1 July 2002 a door or gate referred to in the above Regulation 5.13 (2) (c) must be fitted with a device(i) that is located not less than 1.5m above the ground, or the internal floor, level (as the case may be), measured from the approach side; and (ii) that returns the door or gate to its closed position-(A) from any position in the range of positions from fully open to resting on the lock or latch; and (B) from a stationary start from any position within that range without the application of manual force. (2) Any part of a barrier to be installed or altered that restricts access to the part of the allotment containing the swimming pool or spa requires a building permit. This includes swimming pool and spa safety fences and any other fence that forms the barrier e.g. paling boundary fence. Failure to gain a building permit can result in substantial penalties. FENCES AND GATES COMPLYING WITH AS 1926.1--1993 FENCING FOR SWIMMING POOLS FENCE HEIGHTS Fence height must be at least 1.2 metres. If mesh/perforated materials must have apertures no more than 13 mm. If mesh/perforated materials have apertures greater than 13 mm but less than 100 mm must either: Have a height of at least 2.4 metres, OR, Have a height of at least 1.8 metres with a cranked top. Cranked top must be at least 450mm high, angled between 90 degrees and 135 degrees, and, have apertures less than 100 mm. If mesh must have strainer wire, OR, rail at top and bottom of fence. Quadrant of radius of 1.2 metres from the fence providing a clear span of 1.2 metres to the finished ground level/projections from the ground/objects on the ground (except nonclimbable objects within the 1.2 metre radius). RETAINING WALLS High side of pool Retaining walls must have a height of at least 2.4m. Projections from or indentations into the outside surface of the fencing, or any combination of projections and indentations, shall not form a substantially horizontal surface with a depth greater than 10 mm, unless they are spaced not less than 900 mm apart and provided that the lower projections or indentations are at least 1.1 m below the top of the fencing. Retaining walls may slope up to 15 degrees to the vertical away from the pool. Low side of pool Retaining walls may slope up to 15 degrees to the vertical towards the pool, AND, Have a height at least 1.2 metres / quadrant of radius of 1.2 metres from fence providing a clear span of 1.2 metres to finished ground level/projections from the ground/objects on the ground (except non-climbable objects within the 1.2 metre radius) if the outside surface does not have projections from or indentations into 36 N.B. surface with depth greater than 10 mm unless spaced at least 900 mm apart and lowest projections/indentations at least 1.1 metres below top of fence, OR, Have a height at least 2.4 metres if the outside surface has projections from or indentations into surface with depth greater than 10 mm spaced up to 900 mm apart and lowest projections/indentations less than 1.1 metres below top of fence. Recommendation that fence/barrier be installed above retaining wall to prevent falls. GROUND CLEARANCE Clearance between the bottom of the fencing and the finished ground clearance must be 100mm or less. HORIZONTAL CLIMBABLE MEMBERS If horizontal members are on the outside of the fence, or, where vertical members are spaced more than 10 mm apart: Horizontal members shall be at least 900 mm from top to top. N.B. For sloping sites at least 900 mm perpendicular to the finished ground level, AND, lowest horizontal member at least 1.1 metres below top of fence. HORIZONTAL NON-CLIMBABLE MEMBERS Horizontal members on the outside of fencing must have: no projections from, or, indentations into the surface with a depth greater than 10 mm unless spaced at least 900 mm apart and lowest projections/indentations at least 1.1 metres below top of fence, OR, a 60 degree fillet fitted to the horizontal member to make them unclimbable, AND, vertical members must be spaced no greater than 10 mm. HORIZONTAL SURFACES INSIDE THE FENCING If horizontal surfaces near the inside of the fence with spacing between vertical members is greater than 10 mm, such surfaces shall be separated from the fencing by a distance of at least 300 mm. VERTICAL MEMBERS Vertical members shall not exceed 100 mm at any point. GATES AND FITTINGS Gates must swing outwards away from the pool area. Gates fitted with self-closing device / self-latching. When closed the latching mechanism shall not be able to be released by the insertion of any implement between the 10 mm gap particularly from below the mechanism. If the latch or the latch release device is located at a height less than 1.5 m above the finished ground level, or. 1.4 m above the highest lower horizontal member the latch release device shall: not be on the outside of the fence, AND, be in a position that, to release it from the outside, it will be necessary to reach over or through the fencing at a height of at least 1.2 metres above the finished ground level or not less than 1.1 m above the highest lower horizontal member, AND, 37 be at least 150 mm below the top of the gate if a hand-hole is not provided, or, at least 150 mm away from the edge of any hand-hole opening if a hand-hole is provided. If the release to the latching device or the latch is located at a height less than 1.5 m above the finished ground level or 1.4 m above the highest lower horizontal member and is capable of being released at the mechanism, the latch and its release shall be so shielded that no opening greater than 10 mm occurs within an area bounded by an effective radius of 450 mm from the operating parts of the latch, AND, the top of the fence if this intersects the area described above. Where there is a hand-hole in a gate, the bottom of the opening shall be at least 1.2 metres above the finished ground level or 1.1 metres above the highest lower horizontal member, and the shielding shall be extended up to a horizontal line through the top of the hand-hole, or 150 mm above the top of the latch, whichever is the higher. The shield shall be free of sharp edges and the edges of the adjacent parts of the shield on the gate and the fence shall be rounded or chamfered to prevent a hazard when the gate closes. WINDOWS If the height of the sill of the lowest openable panel of window is less than 2.4 metres then: 1.) Where height from sill of the lowest openable panel of window to the floor is not greater than 900 mm – the openable portion shall be totally covered by bars or a mesh screen, fixed to the building with fasteners that can only be removed by a tool, compliant with strength and rigidity tests for fence openings, and, strength tests for fence components, OR, windows shall be fixed in a way so as to only open sufficiently to comply with strength and rigidity tests for fence openings. 2.) Where height from sill of the lowest opening panel of a window to the floor is more than 900 mm but not more than 1200mm the openable portion of the window shall comply with the above, or, be fitted with a securely fixed flyscreen. A window not complying with either of the above shall be located at such a height that the distance from the floor to the sill of the lowest opening panel is more than 1.2 metres. DOORS Doors must be fitted with a self-latching device (automatically operates on closing the door and prevents the door from being re-opened without manually releasing the device), AND, a self-closing device (returns the door to the closed position and operates the latching device from any position with a stationary start without the application of a manual force). 38 The latch release on the building side of the door must be located at least 1.5 metres above the floor. No footholds wider than 10 mm on the door/door frame in the area from the latch release down to 100 mm above the floor. The door must close and latch at any position from resting on the latching mechanism to fully open under the natural weight of the door, OR, the application of 25 kg of mass 100mm from the outer edge of the locking mechanism. N.B. Sliding doors are not excluded however it may not be possible to fit self-closing and selflatching devices to all designs of sliding doors. N.B. All doors within a single door opening require to have safety devices. Any fly screen door shall also be protected with safety devices as per its associated door. Note: Flyscreen door requires to comply with the loading requirements of Appendix D ABOVE-GROUND POOLS Walls of the pool are an effective barrier if they are at least 1.2 metres in height and comply with requirements in relation to fencing heights, non-climbable members and climbable members. BALCONY PROJECTING INTO POOL AREA Distance from balcony floor to the pool surround (at least 2.4 metres). If distance from balcony floor to the pool surround less than 2.4 metres, and, where windows and doors to the balcony do not comply with the Standard requirements the balcony shall include a balustrade which complies with the requirements for a fence in the Standard. GENERAL Fencing is free of sharp edges, sharp projections and similar hazards. Check for permanent damage to posts. Check footings not loosened to impair effectiveness of barrier. Flexible fencing material and components not break or tear, or, fixings loosen. Barrier able to withstand force of 300 N and components not breaking/showing signs of fracture/becoming permanently deformed by more than 10mm over length, OR, able to withstand force of 250 N without any component becoming permanently deformed. Latching tests from fully open to resting on latching mechanism. 39 MAINTENANCE OF SWIMMING POOL & SPA BARRIERS (Reg5.13A) (Info 4) Swimming pool and spa barriers are required by law to be maintained and serviceable. Occupiers and users of domestic swimming pools and spas are responsible for ensuring that the barriers are in fact maintained and are in use at all times. Regulation 5.13A of the Building Regulations 1994 provides for significant penalties (up to $5000.00) in the event a person is found guilty by the court of not maintaining a pool or spa barrier or guilty of leaving a gate (or similar) open. Regulation 5.13A (as at 1 August 2003) is set out below: 5.13A. Swimming pool safety maintenance and operation (1) The occupier of an allotment containing a swimming pool or spa appurtenant to a Class 1 or 10 building must take all reasonable steps to ensure that any fence or other barrier, door, gate, lock, latch, catch, bolt or fly screen restricting access to the swimming pool or spa is maintained and operating effectively at all times. Penalty: 50 penalty units. (2) The occupier of an allotment described in sub-regulation (1) must take all reasonable steps to ensure that any gate or door forming part of a swimming pool barrier or fence that provides access to the swimming pool or spa is in the closed position except when a person is in the act of entering or leaving the part of the allotment containing the swimming pool or spa. Penalty: 50 penalty units. (3) A person who enters or leaves the part of a building or allotment containing a swimming pool or spa must ensure that any gate or door forming part of a swimming pool barrier or fence that provides access to the swimming pool or spa is in the closed position at all times, except when that person or another person is in the act of entering or leaving that part of the building or allotment. Penalty: 50 penalty units. (1 Penalty unit = $100.00) 40 IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR SWIMMING POOL & SPA OWNERS (Info 5) ADULT SUPERVISION The provision of suitable barriers to restrict access to a swimming pool/spa is no substitute for the adult supervision of children who are playing in or around the area of the allotment containing the swimming pool/spa. The following is a number of simple steps to follow to ensure that young children are suitably supervised in and around the swimming pool/spa area: Supervision means constant visual contact and not just an occasional glance whilst inside a home, reading, snoozing etc. Supervision means taking children from a swimming pool/spa with you if you are required to leave the area, if only for a moment. Supervision includes ensuring that safety barriers such as gates and doors are not left open by children, in poor maintenance, or, propped open in a permanent manner. MAINTENANCE Once suitable pool safety barriers have been installed it is imperative that building owners ensure that an ongoing maintenance program is undertaken to ensure that the barriers fulfil their intended purpose. The following is a number of simple steps to follow to ensure that the safety barriers are appropriately maintained: Maintenance of safety barriers installed to gates, doors and windows to ensure that they are still fitted correctly, and, still operating correctly. Maintenance of fences to ensure that they are still in excellent condition and are nonclimbable. Maintenance of landscaping to ensure that tree branches, pot plants etc. are not able to be climbed by young children to gain access to the swimming pool/spa. Maintenance of the general area surrounding safety barriers to ensure that chairs, boxes, ropes, pool pumps, clothes lines, dog kennels, children’s play equipment etc. are not able to be climbed by young children to gain access to the swimming pool/spa. Consideration should also be given to an inspection of adjoining properties to ensure that, over time, there has not developed potential hazards or climbable objects that may allow access by young children to the swimming pool/spa. OTHER SAFETY INITIATIVES There are a number of other safety initiatives that can be initiated by building owners to provide even greater protection for young children in and around the swimming pool/spa. The following is a number of safety initiatives for you to consider: Ensure that all persons using the swimming pool/spa do so in a safe manner. Consider the potential dangers of the combination of alcohol and water. Display a clearly visible resuscitation chart in an area adjacent to the swimming pool/spa. Include a reference on the chart to the location of the nearest telephone in case of emergencies. Consider undertaking an approved first aid/resuscitation course. Consider having young children take swimming lessons to familiarise themselves with water, and, provide them with the necessary skills to cope should they get into difficulty in the water. Development of a water safety plan in the event of an accident or emergency. 41 FLOWCHART FOR MBS FOR ADMINISTRATION & ENFORCEMENT 1st LETTER (L1) (L2) Information Sheets 1-5 1st INSPECTION NON COMPLIANCE ACCEPTED BUILDING ORDER (O1) EMERG. ORDER (O2) NO FURTHER ACTION FURTHER LETTER (L4) & (L4-1) & (L5) 2nd INSPECTION NON COMPLIANCE ACCEPTED NO FURTHER ACTION ADVISED TO COMPLY 3rd INSPECTION ACCEPTED NON COMPLIANCE NO FURTHER ACTION CONSIDER EXTENSION OF TIME LETTER RE SOLICITOR (L6) NO RESPONSE REFER TO SOLICITOR (L7) PROSECUTE s253 ORDERS COSTS COURT ENFORCED COMPLIANCE 42