What are Safety Vacuum Release Systems (SVRS)?
Safety Vacuum Release Systems are anti-entrapment devices for swimming pools. They are
typically part of your pump or attached to your pool pump, but can be installed inline as well. SVRS are one of the
many ways to create a safer pool for your family or commercial pool guests to
enjoy.
Swimming pool SVRS work by monitoring your pool pump pressure,
detecting any changes in pressure that could be caused by blockages. In the
event of a detected blockage, these pool vacuum release systems can prevent
injury and even save a life by shutting the motor down and releasing the blockage. Safety Vacuum Release Systems are required by law on all public or
commercial pools and spas with a single, blockable drain. While they are not
required by law for home pools, they are highly recommended.
The VGB Safety Act
In an effort to reduce the number of fatal drownings caused by
swimming pools, the
Virginia
Graeme Baker (VGB) Pool & Spa Safety Act of 2007 was passed, requiring all spa and swimming pool
drain
covers sold in the United States to conform to
ASME/ANSI A112.19.8 entrapment protection standards.
To this end, the pool industry has worked tirelessly to make pools
as safe as possible, leading to the introduction of anti-entrapment pool vacuum
release systems, and requiring they be installed with VGB-compliant drain
covers.