Eliminating suction entrapment
The first mandate from the U.S. government came in the form of the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act (VGBA), which was signed into law in 2007, with mandatory compliance by December 2008. Also referred to as the VGB or P&SS Act, the law was written to protect pool and spa bathers from the danger of entrapment.
Most agree the law’s intent is good; yet the implementation was flawed, and has unfortunately caused much confusion. The good news is, however, since the law was enacted, no entrapment fatalities or serious injuries have been reported in the U.S.
The pundits continue to debate the particulars of the law and seek to change its scope; however, it remains important for pool/spa professionals to keep up to date on any changes that may develop. Vigilance and attention is the industry’s best protection from any liability in the future. The current compliance requirements should continue to be followed, whereby pools/spas are retrofitted and installed with approved anti-entrapment main drains and other additional layers of protection.
In 2009, the PHTCC released its recommended guidelines for Suction Entrapment Avoidance Provisions (G-0109). These guidelines were provided as reference documents for use by pool and spa builders, contractors and local regulatory authorities across the country. According to the PHTCC, they are based on practical experiences in the field, fundamental research into cause and effect, and an extensive review of existing bylaws and legislation that specifically address this subject matter. Key elements of the recommended procedures were derived from the VGBA.
Take responsibility
It is the industry’s responsibility to keep abreast of new and ongoing initiatives. The more knowledge industry professionals have, the more prepared they are to meet changes, enhance their credibility in the marketplace and avoid liability. Consumers look to pool/spa professionals as experts in the field. It is time to look to the future in order to build strong, safe and healthy aquatic environments.
Tell me what you think about the new initiatives; what you have done to improve your business by incorporating these new codes and mandates into your business strategies; and what should we do as an industry to raise the professionalism in the eyes of the consumer. Please send your comments to ccentrella@keiseruniversity.edu.
Connie Gibson Centrella, MBA, is professor and program director for the online Aquatic Engineering Degree Program at Keiser University eCampus, as well as director of education for Team Horner and a member of the National Swimming Pool Foundation (NSPF) Education Committee. She is also a sustainability officer, having been certified in the principles of green and sustainable business practices. Centrella, five-time recipient of the Evelyn C. Keiser Teaching Excellence Award, is celebrating more than 40 years in the pool and spa industry.
