Pool safety: essential equipment and practices

1. The importance of pool safety 

Safety at the pool is a bit like putting on sun cream: it has to be done to avoid nasty surprises. But don’t worry, this isn’t as boring as it sounds! In fact, with the right equipment and right practices, you can transform your pool into an oasis of tranquillity and safety where everyone can have fun without worrying. Here’s how you can transform your pool into a haven of aquatic peace! 

Safety rules for pools: 

To guarantee safety for private pools, French legislation requires safety devices to be installed in compliance with certain standards. These measures primarily aim to prevent accidents, in particular involving children drowning. 

These are the compulsory safety devices: 

1. Protection barriers (British Standard BS 6185-1:2005)

 Safety barriers and fences are essential for preventing unauthorised access to the pool, in particular for children. They must be high enough to discourage little climbers, and equipped with secured locks. So, no need to panic, even if you have a future mountaineer in the family! 

      1. Description: the protective barriers must prevent children under 5 years of age from accessing the pool without the help of an adult. 

      2. Characteristics: 

• Minimum height of 1.20 metres. 
• Gate with a secure locking system, which is difficult for children to open. 

2. Alarm systems (British Standard BS EN 14530:2017)

 Pool alarms are another crucial tool for safety. There are several different types: perimeter alarms, surface alarms and underwater alarms. Surface alarms detect movements on the water, whereas underwater alarms react to disturbances below the water’s surface. With them, no stealthy diving will go undetected!

• Description: the alarm systems are designed to detect and alert to all dangers, such as a child or animal falling into the pool. 
• Types of alarm:  
  • Underwater alarm: detects movements in the water. 
  • Perimeter alarm: detects a child approaching the pool. 
• Operation: the alarm must be loud enough to be heard inside the house. 

3. Pool covers and shutters (British Standard BS EN 16713-2:2017) 

Pool safety covers are designed to support the weight of an adult and prevent accidental falls into the water. They can be manual or automatic. Automatic covers are easy to use and high-security, allowing the pool to be covered in just a few seconds. 

• Description: Pool covers and shutters must prevent access to the pool when it is not in use. 
• Characteristics: 
  • Must be able to bear the weight of an adult (approximately 100 kg). 
  • Secure fixing system to avoid all risk of accidental detachment. 

4. Pool shelters (British Standard BS 8477:2007) 

Pool shelters have a dual function in terms of safety and protection. In addition to securing access to the pool, they also protect the water from outdoor items, such as leaves and debris, and can extend the bathing season by maintaining the water temperature.

• Description: pool shelters must secure access to the pool and offer protection against outdoor elements. 
• Characteristics: a robust structure, lockable and closed, preventing access for children without supervision. Sanctions for non-compliance Failure to comply with these safety obligations can lead to sanctions: 
• Fine: a fine which can be as much as £20,000. 

• Civil liability: in the event of an accident, the pool owner can be held liable and face civil legal proceedings. 

Advice for installation

1. Choosing compliant equipment: ensure that the devices selected are identified as compliant with the corresponding British Standards. 

2. Professional installation: ask professionals to install the safety devices to guarantee they will work effectively. 

3. Regular maintenance: regularly check that the safety devices are in good condition and operate correctly, to guarantee continuous protection. By complying with these legal obligations, you will guarantee safety around your pool, thus protecting your friends and family, and yourself, against the risk of accidents.

Good practices for guaranteeing safety: user instructions for a worry-free pool 

Constant supervision 

Supervision is the most important aspect of pool safety. A vigilant adult is the best safeguard against accidents. Whether you are lazing on your deckchair or doing swimming races, never lose sight of the children at the pool, even if it’s just for a second! 

Education and training 

Children must be aware of the potential dangers of the pool and be taught the rules of safety from a very young age. Swimming and lifesaving lessons for children and adults can also make a significant contribution to safety. 

Regular pool maintenance 

Regular pool maintenance is an essential factor in conserving a safe environment. This includes verification of the water quality, maintenance of safety equipment and monitoring of the condition of surrounding structures. Hayward offers automated maintenance equipment, such as cleaning robots and advanced filtration systems, to make this task easier. 

Access control 

By installing access control systems, such as lockable gates and video surveillance systems, you can add an additional layer of safety. These systems enable you to control who can access the pool and will dissuade unauthorised intrusions. 

Smart sensors 

Smart sensors can detect anomalies in pool use, and immediately alert the owners. These sensors can be integrated into the filtration systems, alarms and safety covers to create a comprehensive surveillance system. 

Emergency equipment 

Having safety equipment nearby is essential. A safety hook, lifebelt and first aid kit must always be available near the pool. Even if you hope you will never need to use them, they are there to make all the difference if an incident does occur. 

The case of spas and jacuzzis 

Spas and jacuzzis, although they are smaller than traditional pools, also require specific safety measures to prevent accidents and ensure safe use. 

Specific safety measures for spas 

1. Safety covers 

• Description: spas and jacuzzis must be equipped with robust safety covers when they are not being used. 
• Characteristics: 
  • Sufficiently strong to bear the weight of an adult. 
  • Secure locking system to prevent children opening the cover. 

2. Alarm systems 

• Description: spas can also be equipped with alarm systems to detect any unauthorised immersion. 
• Operation: these alarms must be sensitive and emit a loud audible alarm if a fall occurs. 

3. Protection barriers 

• Description: install barriers around spas to restrict access for children. 
• Characteristics: Similar to pool barriers, they must be sufficiently high and have secure gates. 

Precautions to implement for children in a jacuzzi 

1. Constant supervision 

• Importance: never leave children unsupervised when they are in a jacuzzi. Adults must always be present and attentive. 
• Responsibility: appoint an adult to be permanently responsible for supervision. 

2. Water temperature 

• Limitation: the water temperature in a jacuzzi must not exceed 37-38°C for children. Too high a temperature can cause heatstroke or dizzy spells. 
• Verification: use a thermometer to regularly check the water temperature. 

3. Bathing time 

• Recommendation: limit bathing time for children to 10-15 minutes to avoid the risks of dehydration and overheating. 
• Rest periods: encourage frequent pauses for children getting out of the jacuzzi. 

4. Hygiene and maintenance 

• Maintaining cleanliness: ensure rigorous hygiene in the spa by regularly cleaning and disinfecting the water to prevent infections. 
• Chemicals: use chemicals adequately and keep children away from water treatment products. 

Safety around a pool, spa or jacuzzi should not be taken lightly, but this doesn’t mean that it must be a chore. With the right equipment, a little good sense, and a touch of modern technology, you can create a space that guarantees safety for all users, in particular the youngest. 

So, follow this advice and dive straight into great peace of mind!