The pool latches being recalled due to a safety risk.
Camera IconThe pool latches being recalled due to a safety risk. Credit: Supplied/Supplied

Pool gate latches recalled due to drowning risk

Headshot of David Johns
David JohnsEastern Reporter

A VOLUNTARY recall is underway for a component of a series of imported pool gate latches that can be locked in an open position and increase the risk of children drowning.

The latch components were imported from overseas and do not comply with Australian standards.

If the gate is open, turning the key in the latch can cause the gate to remain locked in the open position.

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The latches were sold exclusively through Bunnings Warehouse stores, with about 8500 sold in WA.

The recalled latches are: • SafeTech Top Pull Pool Gate Latch (Key Lockable) • G8Safe Top Pull Pool Gate Latch (Key Lockable) • SafeTech TriLatch (Key Lockable) • G8Safe TriLatch (Key Lockable)

These products are also available for purchase as part of the following kits: • SafeTech Trade Packs (Key Lockable) • G8Safe Megapack (Key Lockable)

The Australian supplier of the product, SafeTech Hardware Pty Ltd, began a voluntary recall of the product and said affected customers should use different ways of securing their gates while the non-compliant parts are being replaced.

Consumer Protection Commissioner David Hillyard said householders should check their pool gate latches.

“This is a very serious safety issue so I urge all owners and residents of properties with pools to ensure the recalled latches are not fitted to their pool gates and, if they are, to take urgent action,” he said.

“Consumers should immediately disable the key lock mechanism by removing the key from the striker, or filling the key hole with a waterproof adhesive. It is important to note that disabling the key mechanism will not affect your existing pool compliance status or its ability to latch and secure the gate.”

Anyone affected should register their details by calling 1300 034 096 or visiting http://www.safetechhardware.com.au/.