Apache Pools is keenly aware of the many safety issues while designing and building pools and spas. We follow all legal requirements for pool and spa safety; above and beyond what the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act requires. Below are some frequently asked questions regardign the Act.
- What are public pool and spa owners/operators obligated to do to comply with the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act?
As of December 19, 2008, all operating public pools and spas must have drain covers that meet the ANSI/ASME A112.19.8-2007 standard on every drain/grate. A list of drain cover manufacturers can be found at http://www.cpsc.gov/businfo/vgb/draincman.html. In addition, if the pool has a single main drain (other than an unblockable drain), the operator must either disable the drain or install a second anti-entrapment device or system. This can take the form of an automatic shut-off system, gravity drainage system, Safety Vacuum Release System (SVRS) or suction-limiting vent system. A pool may have more than one single main drain. If a pool has dual or multiple main drains more than 3 feet apart, it may be exempt from this second requirement. Pools and spas with single main drains that are unblockable are also exempt from this requirement.
- Which types of pools and spas pose the greatest danger of entrapment and evisceration to consumers?
Children's wading pools, other pools designed specifically for young children, and in-ground spas that have flat drain grates and single main drain systems.
- Are single family rental property pools considered to be public under the Act?
No, these pools are not considered public under section 1404(c)(2) of the Act and therefore are not required to comply with the cover replacement or secondary anti-entrapment system requirements.
- Are physical therapy pools considered to be public under the Act?
It depends. Therapy pools are not specifically defined under section 1404(c)(2) of the Act, but a therapy pool may not be considered a public pool depending on its accessibility to the public generally.
To learn more about compliance with the Virginia Graeme Baker Act, please provide us with some information and we will contact you shortly.