VGBA 2017

WHAT IS THE VIRGINIA GRAEME BAKER ACT?

The goal of the Virgina Graeme Baker Pool & Spa Safety Act (VGBA) is to eliminate the hazard of swimming pool & spa entrapment.

The VGBA is a federal law enacted by Congress and signed by the President on December 19, 2007. The effective date was December 19, 2008. Congress directed the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) to protect the public “against unreasonable risks of injuries associated with consumer products.” Drain covers are classified as “consumer products” that are regulated by the U.S. Consumer Safety Product Standard ANSI/APSP/ICC-16 2017.

Commercial Pool Remodeling & Resurfacing Contractor in Arizona
Commercial Pool Remodeling & Resurfacing Contractor in Arizona

IMPORTANT UPDATES TO VGBA

On May 24, 2021, ANSI/APSP/ICC-16 2017 became the successor drain cover standard to all previous versions of the ASME/ANSI A112.19.8-2007, VGB 2008, and ANSI/APSP-16 2011 standards (collectively known as the VGB 2008 standards). Manufactured product certified to the newest version will be will be marked with VGBA 2017.

VIRGINIA GRAEME BAKER POOL & SPA SAFETY ACT

Public facilities must replace their pool and spa drain covers when expired.

IT'S THE LAW

The Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act (VGBA) law that took effect in 2008 requires that all public pools and spas have drain covers that comply with the ASME/ ANSI Al 12.19.8 performance standard, or any successor standard, currently ANSI/APSP/ICC 16- 2017. This standard requires that manufacturers determine a life expectancy and place a permanent mark with “Life: X Years” on components of suction outlet fitting assemblies (SOFAs) to indicate service lifespan.

REDUCE LIABILITY

The law requires that compliant drain covers be installed in all public pools and spas, in accordance with manufacturer instructions. Failure to comply with manufacturer instructions can result in pool closings and stiff civil penalties, as well as liability in the event of a tragedy. To ensure structural integrity and avoid accidents with broken covers, the drain covers that are installed in public pools and spas need to be replaced at the end of their life expectancy, or sooner if damage has occurred.

DON'T WAIT UNTIL IT'S TOO LATE

While replacing drain covers is the legal thing to do, it's also the safe thing to do. We can assist our customers to make the right decision - at the right time.