5 Common Pool Safety Violations You Should to Avoid

1. Lack of Proper Pool Fencing and Barriers

One of the most critical safety requirements for any pool is a proper fence or barrier. Failure to install a secure fence around the pool area is a serious violation of pool safety standards. The fence should be tall enough to prevent children from climbing over and should have a self-latching gate that is out of their reach.

• Why it’s dangerous: Without a proper fence, children or animals can access the pool area unsupervised, which can lead to drowning.
• What to do: Ensure that your pool is surrounded by a fence that meets local safety regulations, and check that gates close automatically and latch securely.

2. Not Maintaining Proper Pool Depth and Signage

Pools should have clear markings indicating the depth of the water at different points, especially for the shallow and deep ends. Failing to display appropriate signage or not adhering to recommended pool depths can lead to accidents, especially for inexperienced swimmers.

• Why it’s dangerous: Swimmers may not realize how deep the water is, leading to potential accidents like diving in shallow areas, which could cause neck or spine injuries.
• What to do: Install clear, visible depth markers and warning signs that indicate areas where diving is not allowed. Regularly check the water depth to ensure compliance with safety guidelines.

3. Failure to Provide Life-Saving Equipment

Every pool should be equipped with life-saving equipment, such as life rings, rescue poles, and first-aid kits. Failing to have this equipment on hand or not maintaining it in working order is a serious violation.

• Why it’s dangerous: In the event of an emergency, quick access to rescue equipment can mean the difference between life and death.
• What to do: Ensure that life-saving devices are available and easily accessible. Perform regular maintenance on this equipment to ensure it is in good working order.

4. Inadequate Pool Supervision

Pool supervision is one of the most effective ways to prevent drowning accidents, yet many pool owners and operators fail to maintain adequate supervision. This includes not having a certified lifeguard on duty at public pools or not supervising children closely in private pools.

• Why it’s dangerous: Without proper supervision, swimmers, particularly young children, are at a higher risk of drowning or sustaining other injuries.
• What to do: Always have an adult designated as a “water watcher” when children are swimming. In public pools, ensure that lifeguards are trained and certified.

5. Neglecting Regular Pool Maintenance and Safety Inspections

Regular maintenance and safety inspections are vital to keep the pool and surrounding areas safe. Common violations include not maintaining proper water chemistry, failing to clean the pool regularly, or neglecting to inspect pool barriers and equipment.

• Why it’s dangerous: Poor water quality can lead to health hazards such as skin infections or eye irritation. Faulty equipment or barriers can create physical hazards that put swimmers at risk.
• What to do: Perform regular cleaning and maintenance on the pool. Regularly check equipment, such as pumps and filters, to ensure they are functioning properly. Schedule annual safety inspections for fences, gates, and other pool barriers.