A. C. Swimming Pools: Safety

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Safety

Virginia Graeme Baker Pool And Spa Safety Act
What is the Baker Safety Act?
Federal law regulating pool and spa drain and suction systems.

What does the Baker Safety Act take effect?
Midnight, December 19, 2008

What does the Baker Safety Act regulate?
1. All Pool And Spa Drain Covers
    All drain covers manufactured, sold, or installed after midnight
   December 19,2008 must be certified ASME A112.19.8-2007. Certification
   must be by a Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory. This applies to public
   and residential drains.
2.All public pools and spas suction system
HOW THE BAKER SAFETY ACT APPLIES TO PUBLIC POOLS AND SPAS:
> All public pool and spa drain covers must be replaced with new covers
    that are certified to the ASME standard.
> In addition to the new drain covers, all public pool and spa suction system
    must be inspected and when necessary, updated according to the following:

SINGLE DRAIN SYSTEMS - REQUIRE ADDITIONAL PROTECTION
Drain disablement by reversing the flow through the drain, filling the drain with concrete, or otherwise permanently disabling the single main drain.
    * Add a secind drain at least 3-feet away
    * Install a Safety Vacuum Release System (SVRS)
    * Unstall a gravity drainage system
    * Install a vent Pipe
    * Install an automatic pump shut-off system that meets the performance
       requirements of an SVRS

Dual-drain system with drains less than 3 feet center to center also require the same additional protection as a single drain system

HOW THE BAKER SAFETY ACT APPLIES TO RESIDENTIAL POOLS AND SPAS:
> After December 19, 2008, new residential pools and spas must have drain
    covers that are certified to the ASME standard.
> Existing residential pools and spas DO NOT have to be updated.

Safety Act May Mandate Shut-Off Devices  Drain Cover Compliance Prompts Confusion, Concern