Which federal agency enforces the Virginia Graeme Baker Act?
- Environmental Protection Agency
- Centers for Disease Control
- Occupational Safety and Health Admin.
- Consumer Product Safety Commission
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D. Consumer Product Safety Commission
The CPSC administers and enforces the Act for public pools and spas. The EPA registers disinfectants and OSHA covers worker safety, but neither enforces drain requirements.
Reference: Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act (15 U.S.C. 8001 et seq.)
A public pool has one blockable main drain connected directly to the pump. Besides a compliant drain cover, what does the Act require?
- A secondary anti-entrapment system or device
- A second pump kept on standby for emergencies
- A lifeguard posted at the drain when open
- A larger hair and lint strainer at the pump
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A. A secondary anti-entrapment system or device
A single blockable drain needs a backup layer of protection, such as a safety vacuum release system, in addition to the cover. Staffing or spare equipment does not satisfy the Act.
Reference: Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act (15 U.S.C. 8001 et seq.)
Which of these qualifies as a secondary anti-entrapment system under the Act?
- Pressure relief valve on the filter
- Safety vacuum release system
- Check valve on the return line
- Flow meter with a low-flow alarm
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B. Safety vacuum release system
A safety vacuum release system senses a blockage and stops or vents the suction; other accepted options include gravity drainage, vent systems and automatic pump shutoff. Filter relief valves and check valves do nothing for suction entrapment.
Reference: Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act (15 U.S.C. 8001 et seq.)