Risk Management Council’s also have a responsibility under the Local Government Act 1993 to ensure all water safety functions, including the operation of public swimming pools are carried out safely and effectively to minimise risks of injury or death. RLSA’s 10 Year Analysis of Drowning in Aquatic Facilities in Australia between 1 July 2005 and 30 June 2015 found that: • • • • • • • • • • •
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36 people drowned in public and commercial swimming pools 81% were male and 19% were female 36% occurred in Spring 22% occurred on a Sunday 56% occurred in the afternoon 64% were in major cities 94% of people were not visitors to the facility The most common activity being undertaken prior to drowning was swimming and recreating (83%), while 6% of people fell into the pool People of all skill levels drowned, including non-swimmers (14%), poor swimmers (8%), competent swimmers (22%) and strong swimmers (22%) Deaths mostly occurred in the deep end of the pool (31%), followed by the side of the pool (8%) Key risks included: o lack of active supervision by parents or carers for children o pre-existing medical conditions o drug use o lack of swimming ability and water safety knowledge There were 257 cases of non-fatal drowning in Public and Commercial swimming pools The leading age group for non-fatal drowning was children aged 0-4 years (45%), followed by children aged 5-9 years (21%)
Based on this, RLSA have recommend the following for the aquatic industry: • • •
Promote safe aquatic behaviour through clear safety signage, including the need for adults to actively supervise children and non-swimmers; Reinforce the importance of minimising both fatal and non-fatal drowning incidents in lifeguard training and continued professional development, including scanning techniques and optimal positioning around the pool; and Expand swimming and water safety programs to all ages within the local community.
A comprehensive risk plan for the facility will be developed in accordance with Council’s Risk management Framework. 19
