ALEXANDRIA, Va., Dec 08, 2008 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- The compliance deadline for all public pools and spas to conform to the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act (VGB Act) regarding suction entrapment is December 19, 2008. The VGB Act was signed into federal law on December 19, 2007, with the support of the Association of Pool & Spa Professionals (APSP).

 

"Members of the APSP have supported and worked hard to develop and implement the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act. We believe it provides excellent, effective guidance for consumers in pool and spa safety regulation, to prevent injury and save lives," said Carvin DiGiovanni, senior director, technical and standards at APSP. "It is mandatory that all public pools and spas adhere to these guidelines by December 19, or by the date that they open in 2009."

 

Public pools and spas built before December 19, 2007, are not compliant unless they were built without submerged suction outlets, or the suction system has since been modified to comply. To help determine whether they are in compliance, all pool owners, operators, builders, and service professionals must:

 

-- Determine if drain covers comply with the VBG Act.

-- Determine if the pool has a multiple main-drain system or a single-main drain. If the pool has a single-main drain that is not unblockable, then one or more backup options are required.

 

Pool operators and professionals may visit www.APSP.org/VGB to download a comprehensive checklist to help determine compliance, and learn about corrective action.

 

Local regulations may require additional safeguards. Any pool operator or pool industry professional who is subject to the requirements of the VGB act should also check local ordinances to make sure they are in compliance.

 

Visit www.APSP.org/VGB for up-to-date news and information on the VGB Act, or to participate in a free Webinar to learn what your organization needs to do to meet the December 19 federal mandates, visit http://www.apsp.org/career_institute/play.html.

 

About APSP

 

The Association of Pool & Spa Professionals (APSP) is the world's largest international trade association representing the swimming pool, spa and hot tub industry. APSP's mission is promoting consumer safety and enhancing the business success of its members. Members adhere to a code of business ethics and share a commitment to public health and safety in the use of pools, spas and hot tubs. APSP member companies include manufacturers, distributors, manufacturers' agents, designers, builders, installers, retailers, and service professionals. For more information, visit www.APSP.org.

 

SOURCE: Association of Pool & Spa Professionals

 

Additional Compliance Information: HorizonPoolSupply.com