_____________________________________________________________________

Virginia Graeme-Baker Act

On December 19, 2007, the Virginia Graeme-Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act was signed into law. The Act specifies that on or after December 19, 2008, swimming pool and spa drain covers in the United States must meet specific performance requirements. Public swimming pools, wading pools, spas and hot tubs must meet requirements for installation of compliant drain covers. In certain instances, public pools and spas must have additional devices or systems designed to prevent suction entrapment.

There are providers out there claiming that they are bringing pools up to code, but upon inspection, the owner will be at risk of closure. This is because of providers not following the required standards. You should insist on the following:

Job site inspection/review Cover and Pump GPM (gallons per minute) requirements
Pool drawing and submittal to health department with professionally engineered stamped/certified drawing
Drain pool
Re-plumb existing drains to meet new code requirement and add rebar with epoxy to reinforce if necessary
Install other approved anti-entrapment products ONLY if necessary
Meet with inspector and receive a written approval of retrofit
Install approved VGB compliant main drain covers with frames and waterproof
Patch pool finish

Another primary concern for pool owners is their insurance company's requirements. Many insurance providers are stating that they will not renew insurance unless the pools are up to code. This would cause immediate closure of the pool until it is in compliance.

We are trying to prevent two things from occurring. One would be the closing of your pool by a surprised inspection during the owner's busy season, but most importantly, we hope that every retro fit is completed to the national required standards to prevent future accidents from occurring. Many businesses simply do not know about the Act's comprehensive mandates. Accurate compliance is an absolute essential to keeping our public users safe.

For additional information regarding Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act: Please feel free to contact Swimcraft Pools at 904-272-7946 for a free onsite inspection and consultation.