Pool Barrier Resources & Guides

Understanding the Non-Climbable Zone (NCZ)

The Non-Climbable Zone is one of the most critical safety concepts in the Australian Standard (AS 1926.1). It is a specified area on the barrier and in the space adjacent to it where potential handholds and footholds are prohibited.

For barriers complying with AS 1926.1-2012, an arc of 900 mm radius must be maintained along the entire top outside edge of the barrier. Inside this zone:

• No horizontal rails, steps, or ledges exceeding 10 mm depth are permitted.
• No climbable plants, shrubs, tree branches, or trellises may enter the 900 mm arc.
• BBQs, pots, outdoor seating, and pool equipment must be positioned outside this safety quadrant.

Boundary Fence Rules

When a boundary fence forms part of the pool safety barrier, specific statutory requirements apply:

• Under AS 1926.1-2012, boundary barriers must measure at least 1.8 metres in height on the inside (pool side).
• A 900 mm Non-Climbable Zone must be maintained on the inside top of the boundary fence.
• Timber paling fences should ideally have palings facing the pool side, or have horizontal rails shielded with angled fillets (60-degree bevel) to eliminate foot holds.

Approved Trade Hardware Suppliers

If your inspection identified gate hardware or door-closing issues, we recommend sourcing compliant hardware from reputable Australian suppliers: