Electrical spa safety update

Over the coming months a number of spa specific or little known Australian Standard requirements will be addressed. Some of these are voluntary "best practice", while others are mandatory and must be complied with.

The first will address a mandatory Standard in relation to electrical safety. As with all swimming pools, spas also need to meet equipotential bonding requirements. AS/NZS3000:2018 clause 5.6.2.6.5 states the requirement to bond all fixed conductive fittings exceeding 100mm in any dimension that are within "arms reach" of the edge of the spa, and in contact with the general mass of earth directly or indirectly.

The definition of arm's reach is 1.25m horizontally from the spa, and 2.5m above the top of the spa. Conductive fittings include fencing, handrails, spa cover lifters, gazebos, gutters, downpipes, etc.

Of particular note here are cover lifters and handrails which are commonly used on portable spas. Many of these have designs incorporating a plate that slips under the spa in contact with the ground via a concrete slab or a wet timber deck.

Such an installation requires a bond installed by an electrician in order to comply with this Standard.

SPASA Australia is conducting one day Spa Service & Repairs – Professional Level III course around the country for members and non-members. This is just one of many topics that will be covered. It is highly recommended for all industry members performing work on spas.

Contact: These tips are supplied by Adrian Lacy of Spatex. For more information call 1300 772 839.

Caption: Handrail (left) and lifter (right)