MESSAGE boards about moving to France are still full of questions concerning the swimming pool security legislation that came in earlier this year.
Many people ask which types of pool the law covers, what security measures need to be taken and how severe are the fines?
But now that there has been some time for the rules to ‘bed-in’ pool suppliers are able to provide clear advice and information.
One of these is Piscine-Plus, based in Gourdon in the south west of France, which was set up in 2003.
“We have been offering people advice and guidance on the new regulations so that they are clear on what they need to do,” said Piscine-Plus.com directors.
“The law specifically covers outdoor, in-ground or partially in-ground pools and includes a Jacuzzi or hot tub.
“So these sort of facilities will need security measures. For new pools installed after 1 January, 2004 a device has to be fitted at installation.
“And for pools installed before then the date is 1 January, 2006. But if you are letting your property then your device had to have been installed by 1 May, 2004.”
The range of security devices includes fencing, motion detectors and pool covers, each has its own set of standards that have to be met.
And the onus is on the owner of the pool to ensure that it is working properly and doing the job it was designed for.
“Any device has to conform to article R128-2 of the code de la construction et de l’habitation so for example a fence is recommended to be no less than 1 metre from the water’s edge.
“It does worry me that people may have built their own security fencing which would have to comply with the standards, as well as each individual component.
“For fencing, the space between the netting has to be within a certain size so if your fence is found to be non-conforming you face a €45,000 fine.
“And if an accident or worse occurs then you may be charged with manslaughter.”
Piscine-Plus has been busy keeping up to date with the regulations and are working closely with French manufacturers to ensure devices fully conform.
And they supply swimming pools designed by Christal Pools, the oldest manufacturer in France.
“Our pools are figure-eight-shaped so they are a little different, constructed from galvanised steel panels and a liner,” said Piscine-Plus.
“Pools are there to be enjoyed by everyone so if people are still unsure about what they need to do, please contact us through the Piscine-Plus.com website.”