Act intended to prevent being trapped underwater
When it comes to pool safety, multiple layers of protection are crucial. That is one of the reasons why on Dec. 19, 2007, President Bush signed the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act, with the support of the Association of Pool & Spa Professionals.
The act is intended to increase the safety of swimming pools and spas by promoting suction entrapment prevention and layers of protection barrier requirements as part of a broad package of child pool and spa safety legislation.
The law is named for the granddaughter of former Secretary of State James Baker III, who drowned in 2002 after suction from a spa drain trapped her underwater.
The requirements of the law apply to public pools/spas and private member facilities such as homeowner associations, co-ops and condominiums. All facilities that fit the definition (private home pools and spas are not included) are required to have the new safety equipment in place prior to the date they open in 2009.
Public pools and spas built before Dec. 19, 2007, are not compliant unless they were built without submerged suction outlets, or the suction system has since been modified to comply.
Pool operators and professionals may visit www.apsp.org/VGB to download a comprehensive checklist to help determine compliance and to learn about corrective action.
Local regulations may require additional safeguards. Any pool operator or pool industry professional who is subject to the requirements of the VGB Act should also check local ordinances to make sure they are in compliance.
The act also encourages each state to adopt entrapment avoidance laws for residential pools and spas and barrier requirements to prevent drowning. Though not subject to law, residential pool owners should consult a pool service professional to ensure that their drain covers are safe and secure.
