The Importance of Pool Drain Safety

 

 

Pool drain safety is an issue that has gained significant attention over the years. The unfortunate reality is that it often takes a serious incident to bring about necessary changes. This was the case with the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act in 2008, which was enacted following a tragic accident involving a young girl. This act brought about crucial changes in the standards for swimming pool drains and drain covers.

 

The Genesis of the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act

The safety concerns surrounding the swimming pool and spa suction entrapment, and by extension, swimming pool drains and drain covers, have been under investigation since the 1970s. However, the tipping point came in June 2002 when seven-year-old Virginia Graeme Baker, the granddaughter of former Secretary of State James Baker III, tragically drowned after being trapped underwater by the powerful suction from a hot tub drain.

 

While the implications of drains and drain covers for swimmer safety were known, their importance was often overlooked during pool installations. However, since December 19, 2008, federal law now mandates that every pool and spa drain manufactured or sold must meet specific standards. Currently, every public pool and spa must be retrofitted with drain covers that meet these standards.

 

In addition to the drain cover standards, every public pool and spa with a single drain, other than an unblockable drain, must employ one or more Safety Vacuum Release System (SVRS) devices. There are three main types of SVRS: mechanical devices, electro-mechanical devices, and motors or pumps that utilize built-in software.

 

Mechanical Devices

Mechanical SVRS devices are designed to respond to changes in vacuum pressure. When the system detects a significant increase in vacuum pressure, indicating a blockage, the device mechanically opens a valve to release the suction.

 

Electro-Mechanical Devices 

Electro-mechanical SVRS devices use a combination of electronic sensors and mechanical action. The electronic sensor monitors the vacuum level in the pump. When the sensor detects a blockage, it triggers a mechanical response, such as opening a valve or shutting off the pump, to release the suction.

 

Pumps / Motors

Some pumps and motors come with built-in SVRS software. This software monitors the vacuum level and automatically shuts off the pump when it detects a blockage. This type of SVRS is particularly useful as it doesn't require any additional devices to be installed.

 

An SVRS works by disrupting the flow of water to the pump when it detects a blockage in the drain. This prevents the powerful suction of the pool or spa drain from forming a complete seal, which could trap a swimmer against the drain or entangle hair, both of which could result in drowning.

 

For pools and spas, the covers of drains need to be inspected regularly to ensure they’re not missing or loose. If they are found to be missing or loose, immediate steps should be taken to correct this, adhering to the guidelines of the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act.

 

It's also advisable to employ a certified pool professional when installing new pool and spa drain covers. This ensures that the covers are installed correctly and meet the necessary safety standards.

 

Additional safety measures include having children with long hair wear a swim cap in the pool or spa to prevent their hair from getting entangled in the drain. Of course, children should always be supervised when in pools or spas.

 

The importance of pool drain safety cannot be overstated. The measures put in place by the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act have undoubtedly saved lives. However, it's crucial for pool owners to continue to prioritize safety by regularly inspecting and maintaining their pool drains and safety covers.

 

For a wide range of pool safety equipment, including pool drain safety covers, shop Pool Supply Unlimited.