Pool Safety & Security

D&D Technologies is the designer and manufacturer of the MagnaLatch® magnetically triggered gate latch and TruClose® self-closing, polymer safety gate hinges. We are committed to preventing toddler drownings worldwide and we work closely with, and contribute to, water safety organisations globally.

D&D has been awarded the Kidsafe "Product Of The Year" award for the multi-award-winning MagnaLatch. D&D also boasts three Australian Design Awards, a Good Design Award and two Australian Design Marks for its range of gate latches, locks and hinges. D&D Technologies is closely associated with Laurie Lawrence, a former Australian Olympic Swimming Coach and renowned child water safety advocate.

Laurie is a long-time supporter of D&D's MagnaLatch and TruClose products because he recognises the enormous contribution the products have made in making homes and pools safer and thereby reducing toddler drownings in backyard pools. Laurie runs a drowning awareness program called "Kids Alive", which you can visit at www.kidsalive.com.au D&D’s products can be purchased through hardware stores, fencing contractors, locksmiths and pool supplies outlets throughout Australia and New Zealand. Please call us for D&D's "Blueprint for Pool Gate Safety" on (02) 9454 7800, or email sales@ddtech.com.au

COMMON REQUIREMENTS

• Pool fencing Standards, Codes and regulations vary from region to region.
• Before installing pool gates and fences check with the local authorities in your area to ensure that you comply with local requirements.
• Pool gates and fences should be made with the most durable materials. They should be sturdy and free from damage, cracks or holes that might exist within the structure.
• Gates should be self-closing and self-latching. Gates should open outward, away from the pool.
• Gates and fences should be at least 1.2m above the ground-fixing surface, and the gate latch release mechanism should be at least 1.5m above the ground-fixing surface.
• Pool gates and fences should not present footholds or climbing opportunities to children under 5 years. Check with your local authorities to ensure your gate and fence comply with such requirements.
• Vertical or horizontal air gaps between the pickets, balusters, palings and glass panels should not exceed 100mm at any point.


IN THE INTERESTS OF GATE SAFETY

• Gate should open outwards, away from the pool
• Latch release is minimum 1.5 metres above ground level (check local requirements)
• Gate must be self-latching (self-closing)
• Hinges should be rust-free and bind-free
• Gate carries reliable & tension-adjustable hinges
• Latch cannot be key locked in the “open” position
• Latch cannot be opened using implements
• Gate latch cannot be shaken or jolted open

• Gate will latch from any position, including from resting on the latching mechanism
• Gate complies with all relevant Australian Pool Safety Standards

IMPORTANT POINTS

• Gate must be closed and latched each time to be effective
• Never prop open a pool gate
• Make sure the gate latch remains in proper alignment in order for it to latch securely when the gate closes
• Ensure any gate hinges are self-closing and tension adjustable, to ensure safe. reliable gate closure
• Never leave children unattended in the pool, adult supervision is paramount.

SAFETY STANDARDS & RECOMMENDATIONS

Pool Fencing Requirements

ACT Government Planning & Devlopment
NSW Department of Fair Trade  
VIC Victorian Building Authority
QLD Pool Safety Laws 
SA Government planning and Property
NT Government Property 
WA Royal Life Saving 
NEW ZEALAND MBIE NZ Government

Although the list of the regulations above serve as a general guide to safety, there are still variations and additional rules depending on which state or locality your pool property is located.

State and Local Compliance Requirements When installing, repairing or adjusting swimming pool gates and fences always consult the appropriate authorities in your area to ensure you comply with local requirements or Codes.