Building and Energy has announced a product safety recall for some pool gate latches.
In a statement, it said the troubling faulty gate latches might not latch properly and could pose a drowning risk for children.
“The recalled pool gate latches were made by Aristo Glass Products and installed by a number of glass fencing retailers,” Building and Energy said.
“Consumers at high risk of having these faulty latches would have had their pool fence installed between 1 August 2021 and 3 March 2022.
“The latches can be easily identified by the ‘A’ logo on their plastic covers, and have guide tabs on two sides of the engagement pins.”
The agency’s recall notice advises that the gate latch guide tabs might break which could lead to the gate remaining unlatched and ineffective in restricting children from entering a pool or spa area.
“Even if the gate latch seems to be working properly, consumers should replace the recalled models anyway,” ,” Building and Energy said.
It said drowning was a leading cause of preventable death in the under-five age group, with swimming pool gates a high-risk access point.
According to the Royal Life Saving Society in Western Australia’s 10-year analysis of toddler drownings, the majority of children who drowned in private swimming pools gained access through the pool gate.
Additionally, an Ombudsman WA report found that problems with gate latches were the top reason for non-compliance of swimming pool barriers.
Information about the product safety recall can be accessed at this PS News link.
