Pool Safety Barriers: Are Mesh Pool Fences Safe & Compliant?

What is a mesh pool fence?

Mesh pool fences are one of the most popular options for pool owners to consider when they want to ensure their family is safe around a swimming pool. But, are mesh pool fences really as safe and compliant as they seem?

Let's take a closer look at what mesh can offer you so you can make an informed decision on whether or not it should be your choice for pool safety.

Mesh pool fences are made up of a series of metal or aluminum bars that aluminum wire mesh squares between them. The mesh is what gives the fence its strength and helps to prevent accidents from occurring around the pool area. There are many types of fences used for pool barriers, but mesh pool fences are some of the more popular types that are widely used and available. 

Are Mesh Pool Fences a Safe & Compliant Choice for Pool Safety?

Yes, mesh pool fences can be a safe pool fencing option for your swimming pool safety barrier. In fact, they are one of the most popular options available on the market today. However, you should always check to make sure that any type of pool fencing is compliant with the current Victorian pool safety regulations. While mesh is a popular option, there are still a number of rules you need to follow in order to ensure its compliance and your family's safety.

What are the benefits of mesh pool fences over glass or other barriers?

1. Affordable

Mesh pool fences are a very affordable option for fencing around your swimming pool. They are much cheaper than other options such as glass, and automatic electronic pool safety barriers.

2. Strong & Durable

While mesh is made up of smaller wire squares, it still offers a strong and durable option for your pool safety. Mesh is resistant to rusting, corrosion, weather damage or rots so it can stand up well against harsh climates or season changes.

3. Lightweight

While mesh panels are still heavy enough that they won't blow away in the wind, they are much easier to move than solid metal barriers. This makes them a great option if you want to be able to easily move your barrier around for cleaning or other maintenance.

4. Low Maintenance

Mesh pool fences are also very low-maintenance, so they won't require the same upkeep as some of their metal counterparts. This can be especially nice if you have limited time and resources available for fencing around your pool. They are easy to clean and maintain compared to glass pool fences, which offer an aesthetic solution to pool safety.

How to choose the best mesh pool fence for your pool barrier

When you are choosing mesh pool fence panels for your swimming pool safety, there are a number of things that you will want to consider in order to ensure the best possible barrier.

Swimming Pool Regulations for Safety Barriers

Above all else, it is very important that whatever fencing you choose for your swimming pool complies with local regulations and requirements. While mesh pool fences may provide a good level of protection, they are not the only option available. You should always check to find out what fencing or other safety features you need around your swimming pool before purchasing any panels for your barrier.

Material & Design

It is also important to consider the type of material that your mesh pool fence will be made up of. Mesh can come in a variety of different materials including aluminum or metal bars, chain link fencing and vinyl/plastic squares between the wires. Each one has its own benefits including weather resistance, visibility through the barrier, strength and durability.

Fence Design

The last thing you will want to consider when choosing mesh pool fence panels is the design of your barrier.  Mesh panels come in a variety of different sizes and styles to suit your pool, so you will first need to decide where it should go.

How much does mesh fencing cost?

While the price for mesh fences can range depending on size, material, and design, they are typically very affordable. You should be able to find them at a very reasonable price point but the costs of mesh fences and pool barriers may depend on the quality of the material. If the mesh fence is completely made of strong aluminum, it would cost more but is definitely more durable and ideal for permanent pools or spas.

Mesh pool fences are a great option for keeping your family safe around the water this summer season. They offer many benefits including affordability, visibility through the barrier and durability against corrosion or weather damage.

How do I install a mesh pool that is compliant with Victorian pool barrier requirements?

You should always check to make sure they meet Victorian pool safety requirements before installing pool fences.

To ensure your mesh fence is within Australian Standards, complete a self-assessment checklist for your pool barrier based on when your pool or spa was installed:

1. VBA Checklist 1: For pools or spas installed before 8th April 1991
   
2. VBA Checklist 2: For pools or spas installed between 8th April 1991 and 30th April 1991
   
3. VBA Checklist 3: For pools or spas installed from 1st May 1991

Mesh pool fences require additional steps for Checklist 1 and 2: 

• If you're replacing or installing a mesh fence with holes, those holes should not be greater than 13 mm, but if it is greater than 13mm, it must not exceed 100 mm.
  
• The fence must be at least 2400 mm high or be at least 1800 mm high with a cranked top of 450 mm (refer to the diagram on page 3 of Checklist 2 or page 4 of Checklist 1).
  
• Install or repair strainer wires or rails at the top and bottom of the fence.

The additional requirements for Checklist 3 for mesh fences includes:

• Similarly, the holes in mesh fences should aim to be no greater than 13mm, but if they are greater, the holes should be less than 100 mm.
  
• You must install a fence that is at least 1800 m high and install or repair strainer wires or rails at the top and bottom of the fence.
  

Conclusion

Mesh pool safety fences are a great option for keeping your family safe around the water this summer season.

To ensure compliance with Victorian pool barrier requirements, complete a self-assessment checklist based on when you installed or built your swimming pool. After completing your pool barrier self-assessment, you can book a compliance inspection with Pool Safety Check. If you'd like to learn more about our services, get in touch.