NSW Fair Trading Deputy Commissioner Steve Griffin today released a new safety guide for spa pools and is encouraging spa owners and users to be conscious of the risks associated with spa suction outlets.

Mr Griffin said the new guide had been produced in response to recommendations made by the NSW Coroner following an inquest into the spa-related death of an eleven year old girl, Shannon Abby-Rose Rankin, in Forster, in March 2006.

“The major danger associated with spa pools is the risk of being trapped by the suction outlet systems, including active main drains in the floors of spas,” he said.

“All spas should have two functioning suction outlets that are a minimum of 600mm apart.

“If the suction outlets do not meet these requirements, consumers should seek the advice of a licensed builder or licensed pool builder. Consumers can check licences at this website or call 13 32 20.”

Mr Griffin said spa owners and people considering buying a spa should make sure the spa complied with recognised Australian and international standards.

“Check with the spa supplier or the builder to ensure the spa complies and if in doubt, have it inspected by a licensed builder or licensed pool builder or contact the Swimming Pool and Spa Association on 02 9747 6644 or 1800 802 482 (outside Sydney),” he said.

Chief Executive Officer of the Swimming Pool and Spa Association of NSW, Spiros Dassakis, said pool and spa owners should regularly check their pool and spa, along with fencing, to ensure they are in proper working order.

“SPASA welcomes the opportunity to work with NSW Fair Trading and other regulatory bodies to further improve the safety of pools and spas in the interests of the public,” he said.

Mr Griffin said some older spa pools have “potty” style skimmer boxes.

"Consumers should check they have lids securely attached by glue or screwed down in place so they cannot be removed", he said.

“Any spa suction outlet covers should be firmly and properly affixed using the manufacturer’s recommended parts.”.

The full spa pools safety guide is available online at this website.

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