If you're specifying drainage for a commercial pool surround, a public amenity block, or any wet area with foot traffic, heelguard grating is a compliance requirement. Getting it wrong creates liability. Getting it right at the specification stage saves everyone time later.
Here's what architects and builders need to know.
What heelguard grating means
Heelguard grating is a drainage grate with a restricted opening size, designed to prevent heels, toes, and mobility aids from becoming trapped. The standard maximum opening is 8mm in any one direction, though the applicable standard for your project determines the exact requirement.
The term is used interchangeably with heel guard grate, heel guard pit grate, and heelguard grating, depending on the supplier and the project type. They all refer to the same compliance characteristic.
Where it's required
The compliance trigger depends on use type and applicable standards. Common applications include:
- Commercial and public swimming pool surrounds (AS 1926.3)
- Public amenity blocks, change rooms, and shower facilities
- Accessible pathways and paths of travel where drainage crosses foot traffic (AS 1428.1)
- Outdoor hospitality and entertainment areas
- Aged care and healthcare facilities
- Schools and childcare centres
If the National Construction Code (NCC) requires a pool safety barrier or an accessible path of travel anywhere in the project, check whether heelguard grating applies before you finalise your drainage specification.
Load ratings for commercial use
Pedestrian-rated grating is not sufficient for all commercial applications. AS/NZS 3996 classifies grates and access covers by load class:
- Class A: foot traffic only, no vehicle access
- Class B: light vehicle areas, car parks, driveways
- Class C: medium vehicle access
- Class D and above: heavy traffic, plant access, or public road applications
For most commercial wet areas and pool surrounds, Class A or Class B applies. If there's any vehicle or plant access to the area at any point, including during construction, specify Class B as a minimum.
Material options
316L (low carbon) marine-grade stainless steel is standard for commercial wet areas, pool surrounds, and any application with continuous water exposure or chemical cleaning. It holds up to pool chemicals and coastal conditions where 304 grade does not.
For specific commercial aesthetic applications, solid brass heelguard grating is also available. Solid brass is a distinct product from stainless steel. If your specification calls for brass drainage, confirm the product with your supplier before documenting it.
linear drainage in both stainless steel and solid brass, including heelguard grating options with custom sizing for commercial projects.
What to include in your specification
A complete heelguard grating specification for a commercial project should cover:
- Maximum grate opening dimension (confirm against applicable standard for the project type)
- Load class per AS/NZS 3996
- Material and finish (316L stainless steel, electropolished, or solid brass)
- Channel dimensions: width, depth, and total channel length
- Outlet size and position (end or base outlet)
- Slip resistance requirement if the grate surface sits within an accessible path of travel
If the drainage channel runs longer than 2 metres or needs a non-standard width, a custom specification is required. Our guide on how to measure and specify a custom strip drain covers the measurement process in detail.
Heelguard grating for pool surrounds
Pool surround drainage has additional considerations beyond grate opening size. The channel needs to handle peak splash and overflow loads, the grate must stay removable for cleaning and inspection, and the finish needs to hold up to chlorine and salt exposure over the life of the project.
Our post on pool surround and wet deck drainage for commercial projects covers the hydraulic and specification requirements for pool applications in more detail.
Get the specification right from the start
We manufacture to custom dimensions and can provide specification documentation to support DA submissions and tender packages. Contact the team at Strip Drains to discuss your project.
Written by Greg Wallis
Manager, Strip Drains and Alumac Industries
Greg is a skilled business management and product design professional with years of hands-on experience. Greg has designed myriad innovative metal building products that blend quality, craftsmanship and architectural design for the building and construction industry.