Thursday, June 26, 2008
CPSC publishes guidelines on new pool safety law
The Consumer Product Safety Commission has released a guidance document (.pdf file) outlining the technical requirements for public pools and spas to comply with new safety laws.
The Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act – signed into law in December 2007 – requires all public pools and spas to be equipped with anti-entrapment covers that limit suction to prevent entanglement. Pools and spas must be compliant with these new regulations by Dec. 18 of this year.
According to the guidance, most pools or spas can be retrofitted with a safety vacuum release system that provides a release of suction when drain blockage is detected. Viable options for new or rebuilt pools include a suction-limiting vent system or gravity draining system, CPSC said.
Distribution or importation of a drain cover that does not meet the requirements will be punishable with a $1.8 million penalty and possible jail time, CPSC said. Congress is considering legislation that would raise the fine to $10 million.