Virginia Graeme Baker Pool & Spa Safety Act Information
Water safety is one of the most important considerations when owning or maintaining a pool, spa, hot tub, or water feature. Protecting children, family members, guests, and bathers should always be a top priority.
The Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act, commonly referred to within the pool and spa industry as VGB compliance, addresses suction outlet covers, drain fittings, and entrapment avoidance requirements for public pools and spas.
Background of the VGB Act
The Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act was introduced by U.S. Representative Debbie Wasserman Schultz of Florida after Virginia Graeme Baker, a seven-year-old child, drowned in a hot tub after becoming trapped underwater by the powerful suction of a hot tub drain.
Virginia Graeme Baker, known as Graeme, was a member of her community swim team and a proficient swimmer from the age of three. She was also the granddaughter of former Secretary of State James Baker III.
The Act was included in the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 as Title XIV. It was enacted by Congress and signed by President George W. Bush on December 19, 2007.
Important Dates
December 19, 2007
The Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act was signed into law.
December 19, 2008
The law became effective for applicable public pools and spas.
Industry Term
The Act is commonly referred to as VGB compliance within the pool and spa industry.
What the VGB Act Addresses
The VGB Act was designed to help reduce suction entrapment and drain-related drowning risks in public pools, spas, and waterparks.
The Act primarily addresses two major areas:
- The manufacturing, import, and sale of suction outlet fittings and drain covers.
- Entrapment avoidance systems in public pools and public spas.
General VGB Requirements
Suction Outlet Fittings and Covers
On or after December 19, 2008, suction outlet fittings and covers made, imported, or sold in the United States were required to be certified to comply with ASME/ANSI A112.19.8, 2007 version.
Public Pool and Spa Drain Covers
As of December 19, 2008, new and existing public pools and spas were required to be equipped with certified covers on every suction outlet.
Single Outlet Public Pools and Spas
Public pools and spas with a single outlet, other than an unblockable outlet, were required to use one or more additional entrapment avoidance options.
Additional Entrapment Avoidance Options
For applicable public pools and spas with a single suction outlet, the Act identifies additional options such as:
- Safety Vacuum Release System, also known as SVRS, that complies with ANSI/ASME A112.19.17 or ASTM F2387.
- Suction limiting vent system.
- Gravity drainage system.
- Automatic pump shut-off.
- Drain disablement.
- Equivalent system that may be approved by the CPSC.