Virginia Graeme Baker Act (VGBA) Pool

The Virginia Graeme Baker Act is a U.S. law that mandates anti-entrapment drain covers for pools and spas to prevent accidents.

Purpose of VGBA

  • Protects swimmers from suction entrapment in pool drains.
  • Requires pools to have compliant drain covers.
  • Improves overall pool and spa safety standards.

Compliance Requirements

  • Ensure all drains have anti-entrapment covers.
  • Install a secondary safety system, such as an SVRS (Safety Vacuum Release System).
  • Regularly inspect and replace worn or broken drain covers.

Related Terms

  • Main Drain – The drain at the bottom of a pool used for circulation and water removal.
  • Turnover Rate – The time required for all the water in a pool to pass through the filtration system once.
  • Pool Skimmer Basket – A mesh basket inside the skimmer that catches debris before it reaches the pump.

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