Accessible swimming pools in NSW: what the NCC requires
A swimming pool with a total perimeter of more than 40 metres that is associated with a building required to be accessible must have at least one accessible way into and out of the water. Where the perimeter exceeds 70 metres, that entry must be a ramp, zero-depth entry or platform lift, not just a sling lift. Call Sydney Access Consultants on (02) 9586 3111 for a design review or access report.
Is your pool required to be accessible? (D4D2)
Under NCC 2022 Volume One Part D4, clause D4D2, a Class 10b swimming pool must be accessible where its total perimeter is more than 40 metres and it is associated with a building that is required to be accessible. Private pools are excluded. The association test covers hotels (Class 3), schools and universities (Class 9b), seniors housing, aquatic centres and communal pools in Class 2 apartment buildings. Common areas of a Class 2 building that are required to be accessible bring the communal pool into scope if the perimeter exceeds 40 metres.
NSW building work is assessed against NCC 2022 Amendment 2 until NSW adopts NCC 2025 on 1 May 2027. Older documents may still quote the 2019 numbering (D3.10 and Specification D3.10). Confirm the edition that applies to the certificate with the Principal Certifier. See the NCC Part D4 access guide for the full clause map.
Getting to the pool is part of the accessible path. From an accessible entrance there must be a continuous accessible path of travel to the pool surround, change rooms and accessible showers. Link the path requirements to the disabled toilet regulations NSW page for sanitary facilities.
The four compliant entry and exit options (D4D11)
NCC clause D4D11 requires at least one accessible water entry and exit that complies with Specification 16. The four options are:
| Option | Needs aquatic wheelchair? | Allowed as only entry over 70 m? | Typical use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fixed or movable ramp | Yes | Yes | Hotels, schools, aquatic centres |
| Zero-depth entry | Yes | Yes | Leisure centres, beach-style pools |
| Platform swimming pool lift | Yes | Yes | Hotels, apartment complexes |
| Sling-style pool lift | No | No | Smaller pools under 70 m |
Where the total perimeter is more than 70 metres, at least one entry and exit must be a ramp, zero-depth entry or platform lift. A sling lift alone is only sufficient for pools of 70 metres or less.
Specification 16 details designers miss
Specification 16 sets the performance details that certifiers check on shop drawings.
Ramps
Maximum gradient 1:14. Slip-resistant surface. Handrails both sides to AS 1428.1. Kerbs where required. The ramp must reach between 900 mm and 1100 mm below the still water level, with landings at the top, at the bottom and at that depth.
Zero-depth entry
Maximum gradient 1:14. Single continuous handrail. A 1500 mm level area is required at a depth of 900 mm to 1100 mm.
Platform lifts
Operable from the surround, from within the pool and from the platform. Water depth no greater than 1300 mm. Rated load at least 160 kg with a 1.5 times static load capacity.
Sling lifts
Water depth no greater than 1300 mm. Sling centreline at least 450 mm from the pool edge. Clear space of 900 mm by 1300 mm at a maximum gradient of 1:50. Slip-resistant surface.
Aquatic wheelchairs
Options (a) to (c) require an aquatic wheelchair. Specification 16 S16C6 sets the requirements for the wheelchair.
See also the luminance contrast AS 1428 page where pool-surround hazards need marking, and the TGSI compliance audits Sydney page for tactile indicators on accessways.
Pool barriers and gates
D4D11(4) states that gate and door latches forming part of a pool safety barrier need not comply with AS 1428.1. This recognises child safety priorities under the Swimming Pools Act 1992 (NSW) and AS 1926.1. The rest of the accessible path of travel still must comply. Confirm the current barrier rules with the relevant authority.
Aquatic centres: the adult change facility
NCC 2022 F4D12(1)(b)(ii) requires an accessible adult change facility where a swimming pool in a Class 9b building is required to be accessible. See the accessible adult change facilities page for the Specification 27 details.
Existing and heritage pools: when a performance solution fits
Where a compliant ramp or lift will not fit because of deck levels, structure or heritage fabric, a Performance Solution against the relevant Performance Requirements in Part D1 may be possible, supported by evidence. See the performance solutions page and the heritage access performance solutions page.
How Sydney Access Consultants helps
Sydney Access Consultants is an ACA Accredited Member 435. We review the entry type and surrounds, prepare the access report for DA or CC, check Specification 16 details on shop drawings and complete the final inspection. Practice work concentrates on Cronulla, Sutherland Shire and Hurstville / Georges River. Mid North Coast work is supported by Sandy Grey at Black Beach. Call (02) 9586 3111 for a fee proposal.
Frequently asked questions
When does a swimming pool need to be accessible in NSW?
Under NCC 2022 clause D4D2, a swimming pool with a total perimeter of more than 40 metres must be accessible if it is associated with a building that is required to be accessible, such as a hotel, school or public building. Private pools are not required to be accessible. An accessible pool needs at least one accessible way into and out of the water that complies with NCC Specification 16.
Is a sling-style pool hoist enough?
Only for smaller pools. NCC clause D4D11 accepts a sling-style lift as the accessible entry for a pool with a perimeter of 70 metres or less. If the perimeter is more than 70 metres, at least one entry must be a ramp, a zero-depth entry or a platform lift, each used with an aquatic wheelchair.
What gradient does an accessible pool ramp need?
NCC Specification 16 limits pool ramps and zero-depth entries to a maximum gradient of 1:14, with slip-resistant surfaces and handrails to AS 1428.1. A ramp must reach between 900 mm and 1100 mm below the still water level, with landings at the top, the bottom and at that depth.
Do pool gate latches have to meet AS 1428.1?
No. D4D11(4) exempts gate and door latches that form part of a pool safety barrier from AS 1428.1. The remainder of the accessible path still must comply.
Does an aquatic centre need an accessible adult change facility?
Yes, where the swimming pool in a Class 9b building is required to be accessible. See F4D12 and Specification 27.
Designing a hotel, school or communal pool? Call Sydney Access Consultants on (02) 9586 3111 for a design review of the entry type and surrounds.
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