Pool Safety Compliance

The Dangers of Improvised Skimmer Lids: Compliance and Safety Risks

Significant safety and compliance issues arise when using a single piece of loose stone as a skimmer lid with a hand drilled finger hole. Australian Standard AS 1926.3-2010 specifies that swimming pool skimmer box covers (or lids) must be either heavy enough (over 10.2 kg) to prevent easy removal or lockable to protect children from drowning and entrapment. Moreover, the pool builder should not modify skimmer covers in ways that could compromise their integrity, such as by drilling holes into stone or tile that can lead to cracks and eventual breakage thus creating an unacceptably hazardous environment.

HIDE Skimmer Lids are designed to address these concerns effectively. With a safety key mechanism, the HIDE Skimmer cover sits flush (flat) within it's surrounding surface without any accessible gripping points. The HIDE pool skimmer hatch cover also meets the stringent weight requirements and avoids being able to apply risky modifications. The HIDE cover's design ensures compliance with Australian and International standards and enhances safety through thoughtful design and engineering.

While specific U.S. federal regulations for skimmer lid safety are not as documented, the general practice aligns with ensuring that pool accessories do not pose risks, especially to children. The integrity and accessibility of lid designs are key considerations that apply universally.

The legal implications of using non-compliant skimmer lids are severe. Non-compliance with safety standards can result in personal liability issues when accidents occur.  Thus it is crucial to use pool skimmer lids that meet safety regulations without requiring potentially hazardous modifications.

Pool builders sometimes opt for hand drilled finger-hole lids as a cost-cutting solution to quickly achieve a seamless finish. This approach ignores critical safety and compliance factors. Modifications to stone without support can compromise the structural integrity of the material, leading to potential cracks, breakage, accidents and the need for frequent access cover replacements. Matching weathered and faded tiles for repairs often proves impossible, compromising the aesthetic of the pool area.

Given the risks and potential costs associated with non-compliant skimmer lids, we believe that choosing a budget solution like a drilled finger-hole lid is short-sighted. A HIDE Skimmer Lid represents a wiser investment, offering compliance, durability, and aesthetic appeal. By opting for a HIDE Lid, pool owners can ensure safety regulations are met and maintain the seamless beauty of their pool environment without the ongoing concerns associated with cheaper alternatives.

Email Enquiry 28th Feb 2025

Hi, I’m hoping for some advice on a replacement hidden skimmer box tile for my rental pool. The current skimmer box cover is a sandstone tile, approximately 300mm square and 20mm thick, with a hole in the middle for easy removal. I can send a photo also. My 7-year-old son recently walked on it, causing it to crack in half. It weighs 4.5kg.
I have been asked to replace it, but I’m struggling to find a suitable alternative. I’ve read on your website and other sources that this type of tile may not be safety compliant as it does not meet the following criteria:

Be child-resistant, either locked or weighing more than 10.2kg.
Be structurally sound and safe to step on without risk of breaking or shifting.

In my previous rental, the skimmer box cover was lockable, lifted with a key, and designed to be walked on safely as it was near our seating area.

I’d really appreciate your advice on compliance requirements and whether you can recommend a compliant replacement that meets safety standards.

Candice S.

Homeowner | Asking for advice