It should also pass a Perimeter Deflection Test to ensure that the test object cannot pass through any openings, in order to prevent accidental entry and/or entrapment. F1346-91 requires that the cover be able to hold at last 485lbs (estimated average of 2 adults and 1 child) for rescue operations. In order to meet the requirements, the cover must comply with ASTM Specifications F1346-91, but can be either automatic or manual. An approved safety cover, which is defined in subdivision (d) of Section 115921.In the case of a removable mesh fence, the vertical poles should also be spread far enough apart so that they cannot effectively be used as climbing frames. Similar to Feature 1, there should be no possible handholds or footholds. There also needs to be at least 20 inches between the inside of the fence and the edge of the pool, no more than 1 inch from its bottom and the ground, and no gap wider than 4 inches. This lock needs to be at least 54 inches from the ground and face outwards, not toward the pool. If you have a removable mesh fence, it has to be a minimum of 48 inches high, with a self-closing latch gate that can accommodate a padlock and opens away from the pool. The fencing must comply with the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) Specifications F2286. A removable mesh fence that properly isolates the swimming pool from the house.

It should also have nothing on the outward face that can be used as hand or footholds. Additionally, the fence or wall should also be no shorter than 60 inches, start within 2 inches of the ground, and have gaps no bigger than 4 inches. In order to properly meet the requirements, the enclosure must have an access gate that opens away from the pool, with a self-closing latch at least 60 inches from the ground. This enclosure must comply with Section 115923, and can be either a fence or wall. An enclosure that properly isolates the swimming pool from the house.Safety Requirements for Residential Swimming PoolsĪs per California State Law SB442, in effect from January 1, 2018, all residential swimming pools must include at least 2 of the following safety features:

While there’s still no truly universal answer, the above-mentioned California State Law is a good starting platform. But as more has come to be known about pool covers, regulations have been properly updated. California’s Pool Safety Act (State Law SB442), for example, mandates homeowners have at least 2 of 7 recommended safety measures installed.Īutomatic pool covers are a relatively new technology, and governing bodies were initially uncertain regarding their effectiveness as a safety measure.

Fence barriers and automatic pool covers are both great ways to help restrict access by unsupervised children.ĭo you need a fence if you have an automatic pool cover? Your local state law may require you to erect a fence even if you already have an automatic pool cover. While having a pool is about fun with family and friends, there are important safety regulations to consider as well.

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