Strengthening electrical safety in Queensland’s pools, spas and baths
Water and electricity are a deadly mix. Faulty water equipment can leak voltage into the water, which can lead to electric shocks, paralysis, and even drowning. Proper installation and maintenance by a licensed professional ensure installations are safe and compliant.
From 1 April 2025, water equipment is prescribed electrical equipment under Queensland’s Electrical Safety Regulation 2013.
This means extra low voltage water equipment such as pool lights and pumps to be installed in pools, spas, baths and paddling pools – will be subject to the same requirements as other electrical equipment under Queensland’s electrical safety framework.
It is important to be aware that:
- Only licensed electricians can carry out electrical work on water equipment.
- Manufacturers, suppliers, and installers must be familiar with and comply with their duties.
- Unsafe or faulty water equipment may be recalled.
What is water equipment?
Water equipment means any apparatus, appliance, cable, conductor, fitting, insulator, material, meter or wire that:
- is operated or used for controlling, generating, supplying, transforming or transmitting electricity at extra low voltage
- can only be operated or used when connected (whether permanently or by plug) to an external source of electricity (such as 230v supply)
- is designed for use in the interior of the container of a swimming pool, paddling pool, spa or bathtubs.
Water equipment includes equipment such as pool lights and pumps.
Water equipment does not include portable battery powered toys, battery powered pool cleaners, submersible phones and waterproof camera devices.
Stay informed about the changes
- learn more about recent changes to the Electrical Safety Regulation 2013
- learn more about prescribed electrical equipment
- learn how to stay compliant and keep pools safe
- follow us on Facebook - Workplace Health and Safety Queensland and Electrical Safety Office.