The Dangers of Slippery Pool Surfaces
10 Aug, 2024
Swimming pools are an excellent way to beat the heat in the hot Australian summer—two in every three Australians will engage in some form of water activity, whether a backyard pool, local river, or beach. However, the decks of these pools can become very slippery and pose a danger if not appropriately maintained. Wet surfaces quickly cause slipping and falling, leading to a whole array of injuries or, in more severe cases, drowning. It is important that the risks are established, and some measures to be taken are possible to make pools safe for all.
The Dangers of Slippery Pool Surfaces
One of the very unsafe design flaws when it comes to your pool area is that most landscaping surfaces are slippery. Tiles, decks, and other surfaces around the pool will become incredibly slippery when wet, thus seriously escalating the risk of slipping and falling. Falls are a leading cause of injury, according to the American Institute of Health and Welfare, and are frequently furthered by the presence of slip-prone zones around water. A fall may also be caused by minor injuries such as scrapes or may result in more serious damage like a fracture or head injury. Drowning is the leading killer in some Australian states. In an alarming statistic, the Royal Life Saving National Drowning Report 2023 reported that 281 Australians drowned between 2022 and 2023.
The Most Slippery Surfaces to Install Around Your Pool
1. Ceramic and Porcelain Tiles
They are strong, good-looking and definitely easy to clean. But they can be very slippery when they are wet. An alternative to this could be textured finished non-slip ceramic or porcelain tiles.
2. Natural Stone
Natural stones (e.g. marble, granite) have a beautiful appearance, and they are even resistant to damage. However, they are extremely slick when wet and polished, making them more prone to causing an injury. An alternative to this could be natural stone with a textured or rough finish.
3. Concrete
Concrete is inexpensive and versatile but if the concrete is too smooth, it can become like ice when wet. You can get it foliated or brushed for some semblance of texture.
4. Wood
Wood gives an authentic look and a natural feel to your pool. But the wood can become wet and slippery and even promote the growth of algae.
5. Vinyl
Vinyl is soft to walk on and relatively affordable but also potentially slippery and may wear over time. An alternative option could be the usage of anti-slip vinyl.
Substitute Materials For Safer Pool Environments
To enhance safety around pools, it is crucial to use materials designed to reduce slipping hazards. Here are some recommended alternatives, along with links to Australian websites where these materials can be purchased:
1. Non-Slip Porcelain Tiles
These tiles are designed with a textured surface that significantly improves grip, making them safe even when wet. They are ideal for areas prone to moisture, such as bathrooms and outdoor spaces, ensuring safety without compromising on style. You can find these tiles at National Tiles
2. Textured Natural Stone
Natural stone tiles with a rough finish provide a luxurious aesthetic while enhancing safety with their non-slip properties. This type of stone is perfect for creating elegant yet secure surfaces in areas like patios and pool surrounds. Signorino Australia offers a variety of these textured stones.
3. Stamped or Brushed Concrete
Concrete surfaces that have been stamped or brushed create a textured finish that reduces slipperiness. This option is not only practical but also customizable, allowing for various patterns and designs that can mimic other materials. Panorama Concrete provides several options for stamped or brushed concrete finishes.
4. Composite Decking
This is one very durable material, and in addition to being slip-resistant, it constitutes wood fibers and plastic. Used in decking and other outdoor applications, composite decking offers a guarantee of deficient maintenance and a high lifetime, as well as safety features. Ekodeck is a reliable name in high-quality composite decking materials.
5. Anti-Slip Vinyl Flooring
Anti-slip vinyl flooring is designed for wet areas. It is embossed with a surface treatment to remove slipping and skidding. This type of flooring is perfect for use in kitchens, bathrooms, and wherever moisture is expected. Armstrong Flooring provides a range of anti-slip options tailored to your needs.
Additional Safety Measures
In addition to choosing the right materials, several other measures can be taken to enhance pool safety:
1. Regular Maintenance
Making sure that all the surfaces are clean and do not contain algae is very important. Regular maintenance includes applying anti-slip treatments can help maintain a texture on the surface of the pool.
2. Proper Footwear
Encouraging the use of non-slip pool shoes can significantly reduce the risk of slipping. These shoes are designed to provide better grip on wet surfaces.
3. Educating Pool Users
Informing pool users about the dangers of running around the pool and encouraging safe behaviour can prevent accidents.
4. Installing Handrails and Barriers
Handrails and barriers can provide support and prevent accidental falls into the pool. They are particularly useful for children and elderly individuals who may be more prone to slipping.
5. Adequate Lighting
Proper lighting around the pool area ensures that wet spots are visible and users can navigate safely, especially during evening hours.
Conclusion
Fun and relaxation are provided in slip-resistant swimming pools, but these should not be at the expense of their safety. Hazardous surfaces in the areas around swimming pools can cause serious dangers and risks to injuries, even drownings. The risk can be significantly reduced by understanding the risks and choosing appropriate non-slip materials. Regular maintenance, appropriate footwear, educating the user, and the presence of safety features are critical prerequisites for a safe pool environment.
The importance of these actions skyrockets in Australia with its pool culture. The statistics on drowning and injuries around the pools necessitate that safe actions come from the proactive side. By making safety a priority and being informed about the choices of the pool surroundings, one can enjoy the benefits of swimming and reduce the risks.
Reference List
https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/injury/falls
https://www.royallifesaving.com.au/research-and-policy/drowning-research/national-drowning-reports
https://stoneset.com.au/best-surface-material-for-your-pool-surround
https://nexgendecking.com.au/best-material-to-use-around-a-pool/
https://www.oasislandscapingprojects.com.au/selecting-the-perfect-surface-for-your-pool-surround
https://www.ambertiles.com.au/inspiration/post/best-pool-tiles-%7C-amber
https://www.floorsliptest.com.au/blog/5-effective-ways-to-make-floors-slip-resistant/