Step 1
Many counties and districts have used the International Residential Code or the Consumer Product Safety Commission ’s " Guidelines forSwimming Pool Barriers " as a foundation for puddle barrier requirements . These two road map specify that a safety barrier must be installed around any constructed body of body of water that is more than 24 in deep .
Barrier Specifications
Any roadblock must be at least 48 inches tall measured from the reason next to the pool , on the side of the fence outside the syndicate area . initiative in the fencing or barrier , such as the space between picket , must be a certain size , depending on its construction .
The CPSC advocate that a fencing with horizontal phallus less than 45 column inch apart have its horizontal extremity locate on the consortium side of the fence , with pickets spaced no more than 1 3/4 inch aside . This is to forestall a child from attain a toehold in the fence and climb over it .
If a fence has horizontal members more than 45 apart , the horizontal table can go on the outside of the fence , and the pickets can be space up to 4 inches apart . This measurement is base in a young child ’s head and chest measuring ; the aim is to keep a kid from go through the fence , according to the CPSC .
There are separate measurements recommended for the openings in fretwork and chain - link fences .
William Henry Gates for access to the pool must sway outward from the pool area , and have a ego - closing and safety locking mechanism .
Step 2
Above-ground Pools
An above - ground pocket billiards taller than 48 column inch is consider an appropriate barrier when its admission ravel is detachable . If the pool is less than 4 feet tall , an appropriate barrier may be install on the puddle wall to protract the pool to the required height . fence can also be installed around the ravel or steps to make them inaccessible when children are unsupervised .
Local Variations
Each city or county in Maryland may sweep up its own police regarding swimming kitty fences , so it ’s important to contact your local jurisdiction to determine what regulation you must fulfill . For instance , Prince George ’s County ask pool fences to be at least 6 feet tall . In Montgomery County , a pool must have a barrier if it ’s 18 inches deep or deep , and fences must be at least 5 feet tall .
