Recent legislation has been signed into law, aligning New York State’s swimming pool enclosure gate regulations with international standards.
The new bill, incorporating guidelines from the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code and the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) Code, represents a significant step forward in pool safety.
Drowning remains the leading cause of unintentional injury-related death for children aged 1-4 years across the United States, and New York’s existing regulations have been increasingly outdated. The new law authorises the State Fire Prevention and Building Code Council to establish updated standards for gate latching mechanisms, enhancing overall safety.
“Updating these safety provisions will help ensure that first responders and bystanders can access swimming pool gates more effectively in emergencies,” a key bill sponsor stated. “By aligning New York’s regulations with international standards, we’re not only enhancing pool safety but also better protecting our children. I appreciate the fencing and swimming pool industries for bringing this crucial issue to our attention.”
The American Fence Association (AFA) has strongly advocated this legislation, addressing the persistent challenges faced by fence contractors, manufacturers, and distributors in New York. With the new law, contractors can install pool gate latches that comply with ASTM standards, promoting safer pool environments throughout the state.
An AFA representative praised the collaborative effort: “We want to thank our members in New York for their unwavering commitment to improving our industry. We are particularly grateful for the prioritisation of pool gate safety and the leadership in advancing this essential legislation.”
The legislation passed with unanimous support in both the Senate and Assembly, marking a significant advancement in pool safety standards across New York.
