Electricity around water

Water and electricity do not mix

Take extreme care when using electrical appliances or equipment near a swimming pool, pond, water feature, dam or creek.

• Only use electrical equipment via a safety switch.
• Make sure equipment that is not designed to operate in water cannot fall or slide in.
• Mains operated equipment like pumps, lights and appliances must be:
  • installed and used according to manufacturer's instructions
  • fit for purpose.
• Submersible pumps must be either of the earthed type or 12 volts.
• Keep extension leads, cords or electrical appliances out of the water.

Swimming pools

Building an electrically safe pool

A licensed electrician must install and maintain your pool wiring and electrical equipment.
When planning your pool, talk to your electrician about:

• switchboards, meter boxes or electrical accessories that may be inside the pool area
• where to safely locate power points
• installing permanent outdoor lighting
• safety switch protection.

If underwater lighting is used it must be according to the current AS/NZS 3000 Electrical installations (known as the Australian/New Zealand Wiring Rules).
Requirements for swimming pool electrical installations include bonding metal work in the pool area, safety switch protection and measures to keep moisture out of electrical equipment.

Keeping your pool electrically safe

• Never use extension leads, electrical appliances and cords near the pool.
• Make sure protective and waterproof covers for electrical equipment are kept in place. Only remove for maintenance.
• Don't put a plug-in light or appliance where it could fall or slide into the pool.
• Check underwater lights regularly for glass cracks or defective seals.
• Have regular maintenance completed by a licensed electrician.