This Pool Fence Compliance Installation SOP (Safe Operating Procedure) gives installers a clear method for putting in swimming pool safety barriers, including fence panels, posts and self-closing, self-latching gates, to AS 1926.1. It covers keeping the pool inaccessible during the work, marking out non-climbable zones, handling glass and metal panels, securing panels before releasing support, fitting and testing gate hardware, and arranging compliance inspection before handover. It's written by WHS specialists, aligned to Australian WHS legislation, and fully editable in Microsoft Word.
 
Who it's for
Pool fencing installers
Glass and aluminium fencing contractors
Pool builders and landscapers
Builders and renovators
Handyman and property maintenance businesses
 
Use it to
Train and induct workers in exactly how you expect the task to be done
Keep a clear reference at the machine, in the vehicle or on site
Record competency with the built-in sign-off
Show clients, insurers and auditors your safe work methods are written down
 
What this SOP covers
Drowning if an existing barrier is removed or left incomplete
Falls, slips and trips around post holes, wet concrete and coping edges
Manual handling of heavy glass or metal panels
Cuts from broken glass, sharp metal edges and fasteners
Panels or gates falling, swinging or toppling before they're secured
Hand and finger injuries fitting hinges, closers and latches
Eye injury from drilling, cutting or grinding
Striking underground services when boring holes or driving fixings
Heat stress and UV exposure
Non-compliant gaps, climbable zones or gate hardware creating child access
 
What's included
8 pre-operational checks, from AS 1926.1 competency and keeping the pool inaccessible to site hazards, panel condition, non-climbable zones, lifting aids, underground services and tools
An 11-step operating procedure covering pool access control, marking out, setting posts, handling panels, gaps, non-climbable zones, gate hardware, function testing and compliance inspection
Isolation and energy control for temporary pool barriers, isolating power tools and bracing panels before fixings are completed
7 shutdown, housekeeping and post-operation steps
Emergency actions for a child or person getting into the pool, broken glass panels and underground service strikes
PPE checklist and a list of related documents
Competency acknowledgement and worker sign-off
Space for your logo, SOP number, version and review dates
 
Why use this template
Saves hours compared with writing an SOP from a blank page
Written as clear, numbered steps that workers can follow on the job
Fully editable, so you can match it to your equipment, site and how your team works
The competency sign-off gives you a training record from day one
 
How it works
Buy online and download straight away. You'll also get an email with your link.
Add your logo, company name, SOP number and dates.
Check it suits your equipment and site, and edit anything you need to.
Train your workers and have them sign the competency acknowledgement.
 
Need more than one SOP?
This SOP is also included in the Ultimate Fencing SOP Bundle. At $197 for the whole bundle, it works out much cheaper than buying SOPs one at a time.
 
Common questions
Which standard does it follow?
It's built around AS 1926.1 Swimming pool safety barriers. The SOP notes that the edition, approval pathway and who can certify the barrier differ between states and territories, so you confirm what applies before each job.
Does it cover boring post holes and concreting posts?
No. Those steps sit in the Post Hole Auger Operation and Post Setting and Concreting SOPs, which this SOP refers you to.
Does it cover general boundary fencing?
No. Rural and boundary fencing and wire strainer work are covered by the Fence Construction and Wire Strainer Use SOP.
Can I change it?
Yes. It's a Microsoft Word file, so you can add, remove or change any step, check or hazard, and add your own logo and details.
Does it suit my state?
Yes. It's written to the model WHS laws and suits all states and territories, including Victoria under the OHS Act and Regulations.
What if it doesn't suit my work?
You're covered by our 30-day money-back guarantee if it isn't fit for purpose.