Take Action on Pool and Spa Safety Act!

The Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act (VGB Act) goes into effect on December 19, 2008. All pools that are open on that day must be equipped with certified drain covers or grates that meet the required ASME/ANSI A112.19.8-2007 standards and safety measures. Pools that are closed on December 19, 2008 must be compliant when they next open.

There is no off-the-shelf product available for large, unblockable drains (larger than 18" X 23") or field-fabricated drain systems. The product that is available for smaller, traditional drains is domed and therefore presents a potential tripping hazard when used in shallow water.

IAAPA and WWA have been working with CPSC and Congress to clarify the VGB Acts application to water attractions in the waterpark industry. As of today, we still do not have clarification.

States and localities have begun announcing their enforcement strategies. These vary greatly from state to state and range from asking operators to certify they have replaced drain covers to sending investigators to inspect pools to confirm drain covers have been replaced.

Stories are beginning to appear in the media concerning the impending deadline. The National Swimming Pool Foundation has issued a press release stating 300,000 pools in the U.S. will be unavailable to comply with the Act and will be forced to close.

We have assembled the following resources to help IAAPA and WWA members during this time:

Due Diligence Plan
Members should review the linked document immediately and take appropriate steps to address their individual situations in light of the unavailability of product to fit large, field-fabricated drains. This document has not been approved by CPSC. It does not provide legal advice, but highlights some best practice steps that could be taken. Members are urged to consult counsel as necessary.

Talking Points for Press Calls
We have prepared the linked talking points to assist you in handling press calls. Should you need assistance, please contact the IAAPA Press Office at (703) 836-1949, or via e-mail at pressoffice@iaapa.org or the WWA Press Office at (913) 599-0300, or via email at bakeract@waterparks.org

Take Action!
Tell your member of Congress about the challenges you are facing as a result of the VGB Act. Our grassroots action center makes it easy for you to contact your elected officials. Just fill in your contact information and click “send”.

As we move towards December 19, please keep us informed of media coverage in your area and enforcement action by state or local authorities.

For more information, please contact us at gr@iaapa.org/ bakeract@waterparks.org.