Loss Prevention Hot Topics: The Baker Pool & Spa Safety Act

As of December 19, 2008, a new Federal law requiring anti-entrapment drain covers for public and private pools and spas goes into effect. Public and private pools and spas cannot be used until the new requirements have been implemented. Please refer to the short list below containing the new requirements. More details are located in this power point slideshow - Baker Pool & Spa Safety Act.

If your district is currently using a pool or spa, you must ensure that the district is in compliance with the law before continuing any pool/spa programs to avoid non-compliant charges. Districts with pools and spas not currently being used must meet the new requirements before allowing use of these facilities. Pools and spas that have a gravity drainage system are in compliance with the new requirements; however installing drain covers as required for suction drain systems will provide an additional safety measure in reducing the risk of an accidental drowning.    

All pool/spa drain covers manufactured, distributed or entered into commerce on or after December 19, 2008 must meet ASME/ANSI A112.19.8 – 2007 standards. All public pools/spas must be equipped with new, ASME/ANSI compliant, anti-entrapment drain covers.

Pools/spas operating off of a single main drain (other than an unblockable drain) must add one or more of the following options:

• Safety Vacuum Release System (SVRS)
• Suction-limiting vent system
• Gravity drainage system
• Automatic pump shut-off system
• Disabled drain
• Any other system determined by the Commission to be equally effective as or better than the others listed above.

Questions? Comments?

Please contact your loss prevention consultant for questions concerning the Baker Act.