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Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act
Question: What is the new Federal Public Pool and Spa Safety Act?
Answer: In December, 2007, President Bush signed into law the Virginia Graeme Baker Act. This new law requires safety improvements at public pools and
spas to prevent drowning and entrapment.
Question: When does this law take affect?
Answer: December 19, 2008
Question: What are the basic requirements of this law?
Answer: The Act requires three basic things for all public pools and spas.
1. The first requirement is that the main drain grate/cover be replaced with one that meets the requirements of the new ASME/ANSI A112.19.8-2007 performance standard, "Suction Fittings for Use in
Swimming Pools, Wading Pools, Spas, and Hot Tubs".
2. The second requirement is that the direct pump suction drainage system entrapment hazard be mitigated by one of six methods, i.e., changes to the recirculation
system.
▪ Safety Vacuum Release System conforming to ASME/ANSI standard A112.19.17 or ASTM standard
F2387
▪ Suction-Limiting Vent System with a tamper-resistant atmospheric opening
▪ Gravity Drainage System with a collector tank (required in Florida)
▪ Automatic Pump Shut-Off System
▪ Drain Disablement device or system, or
▪ Other Systems that the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) approves.
3. Grates/covers manufactured, distributed, or entered into commerce in the United States shall conform to the new federal standard.
Question: Who is the responsible organization for enforcement of this federal law?
Answer: The Consumer Product Safety Commission is the authorized enforcement agency.
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