Texas Public Pool and Spa Compliance
Each state governs commercial pools and spas. These pools are usually defined as Class "C" pools or public pools. A Class "C" pool is a commercial pool such as a hotel, condominium, resort, water park, or other privately owned or public pool. These pools must be maintained and operated according to the rules of each state such as The Texas Department of Health and Safety Standards for Pools and Spas.
A pool that does not follow Department of Health standards is in violation of state codes and regulations and must cease operation immediately until the pool has rectified the violation and given authority from the local government agency to reopen the pool. Pool drownings resulting in catastrophic injury or death can be avoided if pool safety guidelines are followed.
Water clarity is one of the most important guidelines. For a pool to be in compliance, you MUST be able to clearly see the drain of the pool in the deepest part. Water clarity is essential for rescue efforts of children submerged and in need of help. Shepard's hooks and safety equipment like throw ropes and buoys are essential life saving equipment that may be used to rescue swimmers who need help.
Often life guards that are on duty are too busy or occupied to adequately monitor every swimmer. This lack of attention can lead to children in need of help going unnoticed. A lifeguard must maintain visibility of each section of the pool and respond within seconds to an emergency situation. Pools can easily become overcrowded with swimmers if lifeguards and pool staff are not being completely attentive. Every pool has a bather or user load that must be strictly enforced. Again, if the rules are followed, accidents can be prevented.
Question: What are public pool and spa owners/operators obligated to do to comply with the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act(Act)?
Answer: As of December 19, 2008, all operating public pools and spas must have drain covers that meet the ANSI/ASME A112.19.8-2007 standard on every drain/grate. A list of drain cover manufacturers can be found at http://www.cpsc.gov/businfo/vgb/draincman.html. In addition, if the pool has a single main drain (other than an unblockable drain), the operator must either disable the drain or install a second anti-entrapment device or system. This can take the form of an automatic shut-off system, gravity drainage system, Safety Vacuum Release System (SVRS) or suction-limiting vent system. A pool may have more than one single main drain. If a pool has dual or multiple main drains more than 3 feet apart, it may be exempt from this second requirement. Pools and spas with single main drains that are unblockable are also exempt from this requirement.
A list of SVRS manufacturers can be found at: http://www.cpsc.gov/businfo/vgb/draincman.html. (Jan. 30,2009)
