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Standards Australia's release of a new standard for backyard pools, focusing on safety barriers for swimming pools, has been welcomed by Royal Life Saving Society - Australia.

Advising that the new standard is an important tool in preventing child drowning incidents at home, Royal Life Saving Chief Executive, Justin Scarr stated "drowning has long been one of the leading causes of death in children aged 1-4 years.

"While we've made significant long-term progress in reducing child drowning rates, for every toddler drowning death, approximately eight children are admitted to hospital as a result of non-fatal drowning.

"Child drowning in backyard swimming pools often results from a lapse in supervision, meaning the pool fence and gate is critical.”

Professor John Pearn AO, Royal Life Saving's National Medical Adviser, emphasised the importance of pool fencing, noting "the introduction of mandatory fencing for backyard pools in the 90s was a pivotal moment in child safety in Australia.

"Safety barriers around backyard pools have saved thousands of toddlers’ lives in recent decades, but they must be well maintained, and children must always be supervised around water."

Stacey Pidgeon, Royal Life Saving's National Manager, added "fatal child drowning has reduced by 59% over the last 10 years, however one-year-old toddlers still record the highest fatal drowning rate of any age group, at 3.47 deaths per 100,000 population."

Royal Life Saving research has found significant differences in how pool fencing laws are applied across Australia. Only Victoria and Western Australia currently require regular inspections state-wide, highlighting inconsistencies in regulations and enforcement.

The updated standard introduces several key changes, including new definitions, revised non-climbable zone requirements, improved gate latch and hinge security, and guidelines for combined structures forming barriers.

Royal Life Saving - Australia are proud to have been involved in drowning prevention standards development as members of this and other Standards Australia authoring committees for several decades.

Lindsay McGrath, Chief Executive of the Swimming Pool and Spa Association (SPASA), a member of the committee that developed the new standard, stressed the importance of the new standard, adding "the publication represents a significant milestone after nearly seven years of rigorous work by the committee. This new version helps simplify complex requirements and integrate modern technologies and practices."

Royal Life Saving pointed out that while safety barriers are crucial, effective adult supervision is the most critical factor in preventing child drowning, highlighting that its Keep Watch campaign, recommend four key actions:

• Supervise
• Restrict access
• Teach water safety skills
• Learn emergency response techniques

Click here for full details of the updated standard, AS 1926.1:2024 on the Standards Australia website.

Click here for more information about Royal Life Saving's Keep Watch campaign.

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