HomeMy WebLinkAboutPools Correspondence 0000 00 STATE OF CONNECTICUT
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH SECTION
-A{4S lt_.
Circular Letter#2008-26
Directors of Health/Districts
Chief Sanitarians
Building Officials
(OM: Pamela E. Scully
Sanitary Engineer III
Recreation Program
Environmental Health Section
RE; EXISTING PUBLIC POOLS—MAIN DRAIN ISSUES
DATE: April 14,2008
Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act Of 2007 requires existing public pools(swimming,wading,whirlpool
The Virginia uresbyq g our assistance in the
spa,etc.)to comply with new safety
own officials/ials//stakeholders who have oversight of public pools in your town/district.
dissemination of this information
The new requirements are as follows:
ly with
All public pools must either be equipped with anti-entrapment retrofitting ng all main drains,ces or systems that pwith hetexcept on he /of an I
Al12.19.8 performance standard.This can be accomplished y
unblockable drain,in public pools with a drain cover that conforms to the entrapment protection standard of the current
ASME/ANSI Al 12.19.8 performance standard.
An unblockable drain is defined as a drain of any size and shape that a human body cannot sufficiently block to create a
suction entrapment hazard) of
An public pool with a single main drain,with the exception
designed t n un revent entrapment by lockable drain, alpubl c be equipped,at minimum,
Y pool drain:
with one or more of the following devices or systems es g ps the
1. A safety vacuum release system which ceases operation
a blockage is detected,that has been l tested by an independent
provides a vacuum release at a suction outlet when
third party and found to conform to ASME/ANSI Al 12.19.17 or ASTM standard F2387;
2. A suction—limiting vent system with a tamper—resistant atmospheric opening;
3. A gravity drainage system that utilizes a collector tank(balancing or surge tank);
4. An automatic pump shut-off system.
listed above1
As an alternative to installing one of the devices or systemsecond main�must be in to complya second main drain could
with the
be installed.In the
case where the public pool in question is a wading pool,a (the existing
Connecticut Public Swimming Pool Design Guide.The two me da1C nnect cut Public1Swimm swimming Pool Design
second drain)must comply with the requirements of the most
Guide.
conduct our inspections of the existing public pools,we would appreciate
pw till any questions.Thank you.it if you would please distribute a copy of
As you Y
this letter to the appropriate party.Please call this office at 860 509 72 Y
cc: Suzanne Blancaflor,Chief,Environmental Health Section,DPH
Pamela Kilbey-Fox,Branch Chief,Local Health Administration Branch,DPH
410 CAPITOL AVENUE, MS#51REC
po BOX 340308, HARTFORD, CT 06134
Bus: 860.509.7296
Fax: 860.509.7295
Affirmative Action/Equal Employment opportunity Employer
12/2-/2008 13:16 C860) 610-0857 To: South Windsor HD p 2/3
EHS Circular Letter 2008-91
Page 2
EXISTING-PUBLIC POOLS:
Public Health Code(PHC) Section 19-13-B33b(g)states that the Director of Health,if there exists a condition that
constitutes a"safety hazard", ` nay order such public pool closed until the correction is made". The Act is a federal
law,which the State of Connecticut has not adopted it into regulation,however it is the expectation of the DPH
that the Directors of Health, under the authority of PHC Section 19-13-B33b(g),will take action to ensure
that the public pools are safe with regards to the entrapment issues addressed in the Act. Therefore the DPH-
Recreation Program recommends and will support local health directors on the following course of action
pertaining to recognizing the issues that arise from the Act:
1. All public pools,as defined in PHC Section 19-13-B33b,with the exception of gravity drain pools,that
have not complied with the requirements of the Act by December 19,2008 for pools that are open,or by
the date they re-open for seasonal pools,where products for compliance are commercially currently
available or not,should be ordered closed until such time as they are in compliance. These pools present a
safety hazard since they are not in compliance with the Act. Pools used by children pose the greatest risk.
Therefore the local health directors should exercise their own judgment and enforce the PHC by closing the
pool under PHC Section 19-13-B33b(g).
2. Gravity drain public pools,as defined in PHC Section 19-13-B33b,that have not complied with the
requirements of the Act by December 19,2008 for pools that are open,or by the date they re-open for
seasonal pools,where products for compliance are NOT commercially available,may file a letter with the
local health officials and the DPH Recreation Program that documents their efforts to comply with the Act
and stating their intent to fully comply once the products needed for compliance are commercially available
to them.These pools should be allowed to remain open for use up to three months after products are
commercially available. Gravity drains,due to their design,pose a much lower risk for entrapment.
(Gravity drain pools are pools with a gutter system,having a surge tank or balancing tank For these types
of pools the main drains are not directly connected to a circulating pump.) DPH will offer training;
including recognition of gravity drain pools,in the first quarter of 2009.
3. All public pools,as defined in PHC Section 19-13-B33b,that have complied with the requirements of the
Act may send a written statement to the local health officials stating that they are or will be incompliance
I either b De in which the re- on for use.Please note that this letter is no a
le al r uirement,but a au ested method to hel tra
4. Splash pads/Spray par ,with no standing water,by defmition are exempted from the Act. They do not
need to make any changes to their main drains and can remain open and continue tooperate as usual.
[7um
ensed professional(Consumer Protection License SP-1 for contractors and S -2 for
eymen/workers)should do all the work necessary for compliance to ensure that correct flows are
tained across the drain and that the correct connection of the main drain cover to the sump is achieved.
6. n the past,any pub is Poo at 1s m g a main ram cover or as a ro en main rain cover s ou
be ordered closed until a repair is made. These pools present a high safety hazard and should be closed
immediately under PHC Section 19-13-B33b(g).
NEW PUBLIC POOLS:
PHC Section 19-13-B33b(1)requires that new pools be built in compliance with the Connecticut Public Swimming
Pool Design Guide as it is amended from time to time. The Design Guide was amended to require drain covers as
set forth in the Act. Therefore no plans will be approved of er December 19, 2008 without the necessary covers.
Public Pools that have already received approval from the DPH on their plans and specifications and are presently
under construction will be treated as "existing"public pools for compliance with the Act at the time when they seek
approval to open for use.
•- 21=008 13:16 (860) 610-0857 To: South Windsor HD D 1/3
STATE OF CONNECTICUT
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH
ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH SECTION
r
EHS Circular Letter#2008-91
DATE: December 1,2008
TO: Directors of Health/Districts
7 10
Chief Sanitarians l 2
Building Officials '
Pool Contractors
FROM: Pamela E. Scully,Sanitary Engineer 3
Recreation Program,Environmental Health Section
RE: Guidance on the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool& Spa Safety Act for All Public Pools
The Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act(Act)was signed into federal law in December 2007. The Act
is being administered by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission(CPSC)and goes into effect December 19.
'2008. The Act imposes mandatory requirements for suction entrapment avoidance,to promote the safety of pools,
spas and hot tubs.The Act requires:
• Safety Drain Covers.Each swimming pool or spa drain cover manufactured,distributed,or entered
into commerce in the United States shall conform to the American National Standard ASME Al 12.19.8
-2007 Suction Fittings for Use in Swimming Pools,Wading Pools,Spas,and Hot Tubs published by
the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME). Compliance with this Standard will be
enforced by the CPSC as a consumer product safety rule.
• Public Pool Drain Covers.Every public pool and spa,both new and existing must change out the
existing main drain covers and install main drain covers that conform to the ASME/ANSI Al 12.19.8-
2007 Standard. ("Main Drain"as defined in the Act is"a submersible suction outlet typically located at
the bottom of a pool or spa to conduct water to a circulating pump')
• Public Pool Drain Systems.Every public pool and spa,both new and existing with a single main
drain,other than an unblockable drain, or with multiple main drains that are less than three(3)feet
apart, shall be equipped with one or more additional devices or systems designed to prevent suction
entrapment that meet the requirements of any applicable ASME/ANSI Standard. Such additional
devices or systems include a safety vacuum release system(SVRS), or suction limiting vent system,or
gravity drainage system,or automatic pump shutoff system.
SUMMARY TABLE:
TYPE OF POOL Chan a Drain Covers Install Auxiliary Drain System
One(1)Main Drain Yes Yes -if blockable
No—if unblockable(larger than 18"x23"
Two(2)or More Drains -drains Yes No
more than 3 feet apart
Two(2)or More Drains—drains Yes Yes—if blockable
less than 3 feet apart No—if unblockable(larger than 18"x23"
® 410 CAPITOL AVENUE, MG#51REC
PO BOX 340309, HARTFORD, CT 06134
Bus: 860.509,7296 Fax: 860.509.7295
Affirmative Aotlon/Equal Employment Opportunity Employer
12/2/2008 13:16 (860) 610-0857 To: South Windsor HD D 3/3
EHS Circular Letter 2008-91
Page 3
Backeround/Issues With Reeards This Act:
The Act was passed prior to the availability of products,specifically main drain covers,necessary for existing pools
to become in compliance with the requirements of the Act. Since passage,some main drain covers have become
available allowing some pool owners to come into compliance with the Act.Note that the Act requires that all main
drain covers be certified by specific agencies such as the NSF. We are advised the certification process,and then
the manufacturing,distribution and installation process takes time,more time than the Act allotted for. The majority
of pools,like hotel and condominium pools should be able to comply with the Act since this type of main drain is
very common and products exist for these type pools. Seasonal pools have until when they re-open next season to
comply. The CPSC is supposedly maintaining a web site with a list of cover manufacturers at
www.et)sc.gov/wb.atsnew.html#t)ool
The larger indoor pools(municipal pools,school pools, YMCAs,etc.)are at risk for being out of compliance come
December 19,2008. Drains for these type pools can be of a unique design or so large that products have not been
designed,manufactured or certified as being in compliance with the requirements of the Act.Fortunately most of
these pools are gutter pools with gravity drains that are,due to their design, an extremely low risk for entrapment.
Any of these larger pools with drains other than gravity drains,would a safety hazard and should be closed until
they are in compliance with the Act.
Many of the additional devices or systems(i.e. SVRS,automatic pump shut of systems)necessary for compliance
with the Act,for the pools with single main drains,other than an unblockable drain,or with multiple main drains
less than three(3)feet apart,are available on the market.
Resources:
CPSC has indicated that they will be maintaining a list of approved products. This list and other information
distributed by CPSC on this Act can be found at:www.ct)sc.aov/whatsnew.html#pool
To check out what these covers look like just visit any of the manufacture's websites and search for main drain
covers. They all proudly display their covers and the ASME/ANSI eerffieation they have received.
cc: Suzanne Blancaflor,M.S.,Chief,Environmental Health Section
Ellen Blaschinski,RS.,M.B.A.,Chief,Regulatory Services Branch
(12/2/2008)
Town of • • •
Health Department
Memo
To: Supervisory Personnel/Current Pool Operator
From: Robert De Vito, Environmental Health Officer
Date: 1/8/2009
Re: Virginia Graeme Baker Pool&Spa Safety Act
Enclosed for your convenience is Circular Letter #2008-91from the Department of Public Health,
Environmental Health Section, explaining the mandatory requirement for the installation of suction
entrapment avoidance equipment and the time frame for installation.
As you can see, all public pools must change out the existing main drain covers and install main drain
covers that conform to the ASME?ANSI Al 12.19.8-2007 Standard.A licensed professional(Consumer
Protection License SP-1 for contractors and SP-2 for journeymen/workers)should do all the work.
If at any time you require assistance or have questions, please contact the health department at 860-
234-2601.
1
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH
RECREATION PROGRAM
Guidance on the :
VIRGINIA GRAEME BAKER
POOL & SPA SAFETY ACT
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The Virginia Graeme Baker
Pool & Spa Safety Act
■ Federal Bill signed into Law on December 19,
2007
■ Compliance date December 19,, 2008
■ US Consumer Product Safety Commission
(CPSC) agency administering the Act
■ Promotes safety in pools, layers of protection
■ Affects New Residential Pools
■ Affects Existing and New Public Pools
■ Not adopted into CT State Regulations
■ Changes made to the CT Public Swimming
Pool Design Guide for new construction
Mandatory Provisions
-1
■ Manufacture, distribution and sale of drain
covers must be certified to comply with
ASME/ANSI A 112. 19.8-2007 standard .
■ All public pools and spas, both existing and
new, be equipped with certified anti-
entrapment drain covers
■ Single main drains, other than an unblockable
drain, or multiple drain systems less than 3
feet apart, must install an additional device.
Additional Devices
■ For single outlets, other than
unblockable, OR multiple .drain systems
less than 3 feet apart.
■ Safety Vacuum Release System —SVRS
(must comply with ASME/ANSI A 112. 19. 17 or
ASTM F2387)
■ Suction Limiting Vent System - atmospheric vent
■ Gravity Drain System (surge tank)
■ Automatic Pump Shut-off System
Unblockable Drain
■ CPSC def in ition — a drain of any
AW
size anal shape that a human body
cannot suffIciently block to create a
suction entrapment hazard.
■ Square Drains - 18"" x 23"
. Channel Drains - min .open area
3 " wide x 3 1 " long
New Covers
■ CPSC maintaining list of approved covers
(cpsc.gov/whatsnew. html # pool)
■ Most will be marked :
■ ASME/ANSI 2007
■ VGB 2008
■ BIG Problem - not all size/style covers
available on the market
! ! ! !
According to CSPC . . . . . . . .
■ Round Covers and 9""x9" are available
■ 12""x12" and 18""x18"" are coming soon
■ As are some large, square unblockable
covers
Drain Covers and Sumps
■ Always a new sticky-pointHH !
■ Must be a safe and secure fit between
new cover and sump.
■ If flow rates too high, poor
connection/fit, or other problem then
may need to repair/replace sump
ENFOR CEMENT New
POO/S
After December 19, 2008 new pools
seeking plan approval by DPH must
comply with the following :
■ Minimum 2 main drains - min . 3 feet apart
■ Main drain covers meet the standards of
the current ASME/ANSI A 112. 19.8
ENFORCEMENT-Existing
Poo/5
■ DPH expects and will support the local
Directors of Health to take action
■ Public Health Code Section 19- 13-b33b(g) —
gives the local Directors of Health the
authority to close a public pool if there is a
""safety hazard".
■ Pools can opt to close themselves.
Compl iance Dates
■ Year- Round Pools —Dec . 19,,
2008
■ Seasonal Pools — when they
re-open for use .
DPH Guidance on Enforcement
■ DPH recommends and will support the
local Directors of Health on the
following action :
■ Close the Public Pool — if the pool is not
in compliance and products are
commercially available.
■ Public Pool Remains Open or can Re-
open- if the pool has documented, they
are in compliance with the Act.
DPH Guidance on Enforcement —
continued :
■ FOR GRAVITY DRAIN POOLS
Public Pool Remain Open - - if the pool
is not in compliance because currently
there are NO products commercially
available. Howeverlthey must:
■ File a letter with the local health officials and the
DPH — Recreation Program demonstrating their
willingness and efforts made to comply and
stating their intent to fully comply once the
products are available to them.
■ Be allowed to remain open for up to three (3)
months after products are available to them.
Documentation for Compliance
--------------
■ Standard Form/Letter filed with local
Health Department and DPH
■ Engineer/Pool Contractor's sign-off
■ During inspections confirm :
■ Not all drain covers will be marked, but
most will
■ Invoices of products brought and installed
Local Health Departments
■ Update lists of public pools in
town/region
■ Track compliance
■ Confirm compliance through inspections
■ Close public pools with any
missing/broken main drain covers.
Public Pools not covered by
this Act
■ Spray Parks/Splash Pads with NO
standing water
■ The Act does not address these types of
pools since the definition in the Act
defines Swimming Pool; Spa as a
structure intended for "swimming or
recreational bathing
".
THANK YOU
Pamela E. Scully
Sanitary Engineer 3
Recreation Program
Department of Public Health
860-509-7296
Pamela . Scully@ct. gov
AquaStar Pool Products Page 2 of 3
32"Channel Drain Anti-Vortex 32"Channel Drain Flat Grate 32`°Channel Drain Anti-Vortex
Anti-Entrapment Suction Outlet Cover Anti-Entrapment Suction Outlet Cover Anti-Entrapment Suction Outlet Cover
and Frame and 3-Port Fabricated Sump and 3-Port Fabricated Sump
Anti-Entrapment Flow Rates Anti-Entrapment Flow Rates Anti-Entrapment Flow Rates
Single: y= Single: Single
Floor:236 GPM at 3.4 fps �� Floor:316 GPM at 3.9 fps Floor.236 GPM at 3.4 fps
Wall:136 GPM at 1.9 fps Wall:208 GPM at 2.6 fps je Wall:136 GPM at 1.9 fps R
Dual: Dual Dual
Floor:472 GPM at 3.4 fps Floor:632 GPM at 3.9 fps Floor:472 GPM at 3.4 fps
Wall:272 GPM at 1.9 fps Wall:416 GPM at 2.6 fps Wall:272 GPM at 1.9 fps
FloorlWall:211 GPM at 1.5 fps Floor/Wall:242 GPM at 1.5 fps FlooriWail:211 GPM at 1.5 fps
part#32CDAVFRxxx 3 Ports:Bottom 2.5"OD,2.0"ID S/S;Inside 2.0" 3 Ports:Bottom 2.5"OD,2.0"ID S/S;Inside 2.0"
(xxx=color code,SEE COLOR CODE>) Threaded FPT;Two 2"Threaded Plugs Included Threaded FPT;Two 2"Threaded Plugs Included
part#32CDFLxxx part#32CDAVxxx
(xxx=color code,SEE COLOR CODE>) (xxx=color code,SEE COLOR CODE>)
VIEW PRODUCT SHEET PDF> VIEW PRODUCT SHEET PDF> VIEW PRODUCT SHEET PDF>
VIEW INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS PDF> VIEW INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS PDF> VIEW INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS PDF>
8"Anti-Entrapment Suction Outlet Cover 10"Anti-Entrapment Suction Outlet Cover Retrofit 9"Square to S"Anti-Entrapment
and Frame and Frame Suction Outlet Cover
Anti-Entrapment Flow Rates Anti-Entrapment Flow Rates Anti-Entrapment Flow Rates
Single Single Single
Floor:88 GPM at 3.2 fps Floor:206 GPM at 5.8 fps Floor:88 GPM at 3.2 fps
Wall:70 GPM at 2.6 fps Wall:96 GPM at 2.8 fps Wail:70 GPM at 2.6 fps
Dual Dual Dual 'u
Floor:88 GPM at 1.6 fps Floor:206 GPM at 2.9 fps Floor:88 GPM at 1.6 fps
Wail:70 GPM at 1.3 fps Wall:96 GPM at 1.4 fps Wall:70 GPM at 1.3 fps
Triple Triple Triple
Floor:176 GPM at 2.1 fps Floor:412 GPM at 3.9 fps Floor:176 GPM at 2.1 fps
Wail:140 GPM at 1.7 fps Wall:288 GPM at 2.7 fps Wall:140 GPM at 1.7 fps
http://www.aquastarpoolproducts.com/featuredproducts.html 12/2/2008
STATE OF CONNECTICUT
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH
ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH SECTION
r24 Is
r
EHS Circular Letter#2008-91
DATE: December 1,2008
TO: Directors of Health/Districts
Chief Sanitarians
Building Officials
Pool Contractors
FROM: Pamela E. Scully, Sanitary Engineer 3
Recreation Program,Environmental Health Section
RE: Guidance on the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool&Spa Safety Act for All Public Pools
The Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act(Act)was signed into federal law in December 2007.The Act
is being administered by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission(CPSC)and goes into effect December 19,
2008.The Act imposes mandatory requirements for suction.entrapment avoidance,to promote the safety of pools,
spas and hot tubs.The Act requires:
• Safety Drain Covers.Each swimming pool or spa drain cover manufactured,distributed,or entered
into commerce in the United States shall conform to the American National Standard ASME Al 12.19.8
-2007 Suction Fittings for Use in Swimming Pools,Wading Pools, Spas,and Hot Tubs published by
the American Society of Mechanical Engineers(ASME). Compliance with this Standard will be
enforced by the CPSC as a consumer product safety rule.
• Public Pool Drain Covers.Every public pool and spa,both new and existing,must change out the
existing main drain covers and install main drain covers that conform to the ASME/ANSI Al 12.19.8-
2007 Standard. ("Main Drain"as defined in the Act is"a submersible suction outlet typically located at
the bottom of a pool or spa to conduct water to a circulating pump")
• Public Pool Drain Systems.Every public pool and spa,both new and existing,with a single main
drain,other than an unblockable drain,or with multiple main drains that are less than three(3)feet
apart,shall be equipped with one or more additional devices or systems designed to prevent suction
entrapment that meet the requirements of any applicable ASME/ANSI Standard. Such additional
devices or systems include a safety vacuum release system(SVRS),or suction limiting vent system,or
gravity drainage system,or automatic pump shutoff system.
SUMMARY TABLE:
TYPE OF POOL Change Drain Covers Install Auxiliary Drain System
One(1)Main Drain Yes Yes-if blockable
No—if unblockable(larger than 18"x23"
Two(2)or More Drains -drains Yes No
more than 3 feet apart
Two(2)or More Drains—drains Yes Yes—if blockable
less than 3 feet apart No—if unblockable(larger than 18"x23"
410 CAPITOL AVENUE, MS#51REC
" PO BOX 340308, HARTFORD, CT 06134
Bus: 860.509.7296 Fax: 860.509.7295
Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity Employer
EHS Circular Letter 2008-91
Page 2
EXISTING PUBLIC POOLS:
Public Health Code(PHC) Section 19-13-B33b(g) states that the Director of Health,if there exists a condition that
constitutes a"safety hazard","may order such public pool closed until the correction is made".The Act is a federal
law,which the State of Connecticut has not adopted it into regulation,however it is the expectation of the DPH
that the Directors of Health,under the authority of PHC Section 19-13-B33b(g),will take action to ensure
that the public pools are safe with regards to the entrapment issues addressed in the Act.Therefore the DPH-
Recreation Program recommends and will support local health directors on the following course of action
pertaining to recognizing the issues that arise from the Act:
1. All public pools,as defined in PHC Section 19-13-1333b,with the exception of gravity drain pools,that
have not complied with the requirements of the Act by December 19,2008 for pools that are open,or by
the date they re-open for seasonal pools,where products for compliance are commercially currently
available or not, should be ordered closed until such time as they are in compliance.These pools present a
safety hazard since they are not in compliance with the Act.Pools used by children pose the greatest risk.
Therefore the local health directors should exercise their own judgment and enforce the PHC by closing the
pool under PHC Section 19-13-B33b(g).
2. Gravity drain public pools,as defined in PHC Section 19-13-1333b,that have not complied with the
requirements of the Act by December 19,2008 for pools that are open,or by the date they re-open for
seasonal pools,where products for compliance are NOT commercially available,may file a letter with the
local health officials and the DPH Recreation Program that documents their efforts to comply with the Act
and stating their intent to fully comply once the products needed for compliance are commercially available
to them.These pools should be allowed to remain open for use up to.three months after products are
commercially available. Gravity drains,due to their design,pose a much lower risk for entrapment.
(Gravity drain pools are pools with a gutter system,having a surge tank or balancing tank. For these types
of pools the main drains are not directly connected to a circulating pump.) DPH will offer training;
including recognition of gravity drain pools,in the first quarter of 2009.
3. All public pools,as defined in PHC Section 19-13-1333b,that have complied with the requirements of the
Act may send a written statement to the local health officials stating that they are or will be incompliance
either by December 19,2008 or the date in which they re-open for use.Please note that this letter is not a
legal requirement,but a suggested method to help track compliance.
4. Splash pads/Spray parks,with no standing water,by definition are exempted from the Act.They do not
need to make any changes to their main drains and can remain open and continue to operate as usual.
5. A licensed professional(Consumer Protection License SP-1 for contractors and SP-2 for
journeymen/workers)should do all the work necessary for compliance to ensure that correct flows are
maintained across the drain and that the correct connection of the main drain cover to the sump is achieved.
6. As in the past,any public pool that is missing a main drain cover or has a broken main drain cover should
be ordered closed until a repair is made. These pools present a high safety hazard and should be closed
immediately under PHC Section 19-13-B33b(g).
NEW PUBLIC POOLS:
PHC Section 19-13-B33b(1)requires that new pools be built in compliance with the Connecticut Public Swimming
Pool Design Guide as it is amended from time to time. The Design Guide was amended to require drain covers as
set forth in the Act.Therefore no plans will be approved after December 19,2008 without the necessary covers.
Public Pools that have already received approval from the DPH on their plans and specifications and are presently
under construction will be treated as"existing"public pools for compliance with the Act at the time when they seek
approval to open for use.
. a
EHS Circular Letter 2008-91
Page 3
Backaround/Issues With Regards This Act:
The Act was passed prior to the availability of products, specifically main drain covers,necessary for existing pools
to become in compliance with the requirements of the Act. Since passage,some main drain covers have become
available allowing some pool owners to come into compliance with the Act.Note that the Act requires that all main
drain covers be certified by specific agencies such as the NSF. We are advised the certification process,and then
the manufacturing,distribution and installation process takes time,more time than the Act allotted for.The majority
of pools,like hotel and condominium pools should be able to comply with the Act since this type of main drain is
very common and products exist for these type pools. Seasonal pools have until when they re-open next season to
comply.The CPSC is supposedly maintaining a web site with a list of cover manufacturers at
www.cpsc.gov/whatsnew.htinl pool
The larger indoor pools(municipal pools,school pools,YMCAs,etc.)are at risk for being out of compliance come
December 19,2008. Drains for these type pools can be of a unique design or so large that products have not been
designed,manufactured or certified as being in compliance with the requirements of the Act.Fortunately most of
these pools are gutter pools with gravity drains that are,due to their design,an extremely low risk for entrapment.
Any of these larger pools with drains other than gravity drains,would a safety hazard and should be closed until
they are in compliance with the Act.
Many of the additional devices or systems(i.e. SVRS,automatic pump shut of systems)necessary for compliance
with the Act,for the pools with single main drains,other than an unblockable drain,or with multiple main drains
less than three(3)feet apart,are available on the market.
Resources:
CPSC has indicated that they will be maintaining a list of approved products.This list and other information
distributed by CPSC on this Act can be found at: www.ppsc.govhvhatsnew.html#pool
To check out what these covers look like just visit any of the manufacture's websites and search for main drain
covers. They all proudly display their covers and the ASME/ANSI certification they have received.
cc: Suzanne Blancaflor,M.S.,Chief,Environmental Health Section
Ellen Blaschinski,R.S.,M.B.A.,Chief,Regulatory Services Branch
(12/2/2008)
Town of r • •
DepartmentHealth
Me o
To: Supervisory Personnel/Current Pool Operator
From: Robert De Vito, Environmental Health Officer
Date: 1/8/2009
Re: Virginia Graeme Baker Pool&Spa Safety Act
Enclosed for your convenience is Circular Letter #2008-91from the Department of Public Health,
Environmental Health Section, explaining the mandatory requirement for the installation of suction
entrapment avoidance equipment and the time frame for installation.
As you can see, all public pools must change out the existing main drain covers and install main drain
covers that conform to the ASME?ANSI Al 12.19.8-2007 Standard.A licensed professional(Consumer
Protection License SP-1 for contractors and SP-2 for journeymen/workers)should do all the work.
If at any time you require assistance or have questions, please contact the health department at 860-
234-2601.
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1
2/2 2008 13:16 (660) 610-0857 To: South Windsor HD D 1/3
IN STATE OF CONNECTICUT
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH
ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH SECTION
EHS Circular Letter#2008-91
DATE: December 1,2008
TO: Directors of Health/Districts
Chief Sanitarians
Building Officials
Pool Contractors
FROM: Pamela E. Scully,Sanitary Engineer 3
Recreation Program,Environmental Health Section
RE: Guidance on the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool& Spa Safety Act for All Public Pools
The Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act(Act)was signed into federal law in December 2007.The Act
is being administered by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission(CPSC)and goes into effect December 19,
'2008. The Act imposes mandatory requirements for suction entrapment avoidance,to promote the safety of pools,
spas and hot tubs.The Act requires:
• Safety Drain Covers.Each swimming pool or spa drain cover manufactured,distributed,or entered
into commerce in the United States shall conform to the American National Standard ASME Al 12.19.8
-2007 Suction Fittings for Use in Swimming Pools,Wading Pools, Spas,and Hot Tubs published by
the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME). Compliance with this Standard will be
enforced by the CPSC as a consumer product safety rule.
• Public Pool Drain Covers.Every public pool and spa,both new and existing,must change out the
existing main drain covers and install main drain covers that conform to the ASME/ANSI Al 12.19.8-
2007 Standard. ("Main Drain"as defined in the Act is"a submersible suction outlet typically located at
the bottom of a pool or spa to conduct water to a circulating pump')
• Public Pool Drain Systems.Every public pool and spa,both new and existing,with a single main
drain,other than an unblockable drain, or with multiple main drains that are less than three(3)feet
apart,shall be equipped with one or more additional devices or systems designed to prevent suction
entrapment that meet the requirements of any applicable ASME/ANSI Standard. Such additional
devices or systems include a safety vacuum release system(SVRS), or suction limiting vent system,or
gravity drainage system, or automatic pump shutoff system.
SUMMARY TABLE:
TYPE OF POOL Change Drain Covers Install Auxiliary Drain System
One(1)Main Drain Yes Yes-if blockable
No—if unblockable(larger than 18"x23'
Two(2)or More Drains -drains Yes No
more than 3 feet apart
Two(2)or More Drains—drains Yes Yes—if blockable
less than 3 feet apart No—if unblockable(larger than 18"x23'jj
410 CAPITOL AVENUE, M8#JIREC
PO BOX 340309, HARTFORD, CT 06134
Bus; 860.509.7296 Fax; 860.509.7295
Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity Employer
12/2/2008 13:16 (860) 610-0857 To: South Windsor HD D 2/3
EHS Circular Letter 2008-91
Page 2
EXISTING PUBLIC POOLS:
Public Health Code(PHC) Section 19-13-B33b(g)states that the Director of Health,if there exists a condition that
constitutes a'Safety hazard!,`Ynay order such public pool closed until the correction is made". The Act is a federal
law, which the State of Connecticut has not adopted it into regulation,however it is the exn_ecta ion of the DPH
that the Directors of Health,under the authority of PHC Section 19-13-1333b(g),will take action to ensure
that the public pools are safe with regards to the entrapment issues addressed in the Act. Therefore the DPH-
Recreation Program recommends and will support local health directors on the following course of action
pertaining to recognizing the issues that arise from the Act:
1. All public pools,as defined in PHC Section 19-13-B33b,with the exception of gravity drain pools,that
have not complied with the requirements of the Act by December 19,2008 for pools that are open,or by
the date they re-open for seasonal pools,where products for compliance are commercially currently
available or not,should be ordered closed until such time as they are in compliance. These pools present a
safety hazard since they are not in compliance with the Act Pools used by children pose the greatest risk
Therefore the local health directors should exercise their own judgment and enforce the PHC by closing the
pool under PHC Section 19-13-B33b(g).
2. Gravity drain public pools,as defined in PHC Section 19-13-B33b,that have not complied with the
requirements of the Act by December 19,2008 for pools that are open, or by the date they re-open for
seasonal pools,where products for compliance are NOT commercially available,may file a letter with the
local health officials and the DPH Recreation Program that documents their efforts to comply with the Act
and stating their intent to fully comply once the products needed for compliance are commercially available
to them. These pools should be allowed to remain open for use up to three months after products are
commercially available. Gravity drains,due to their design,pose a much lower risk for entrapment.
(Gravity drain pools are pools with a gutter system,having a surge tank or balancing tank. For these types
of pools the main drains are not directly connected to a circulating pump.) DPH will offer training;
including recognition of gravity drain pools,in the first quarter of 2009.
3. All public pools,as defined in PHC Section 19-13-B33b,that have complied with the requirements of the
Act may send a written statement to the local health officials stating that they are or will be incompliance
either by December 19,2008 or the date in which they re-open for use.Please note that this letter is not a
legal requirement,but a suggested method to help track compliance.
4. Splash pads/Spray parks,with no standing water,by definition are exempted from the Act. They do not
need to make any changes to their main drains and can remain open and continue to operate as usual.
5. A licensed professional(Consumer Protection License SP-1 for contractors and SP-2 for
jouriieymen/workers)should do all the work necessary for compliance to ensure that correct flows are
maintained across the drain and that the correct connection of the main drain cover to the sump is achieved.
6. As in the past,any public pool that is missing a main drain cover or has a broken main drain cover should
be ordered closed until a repair is made. These pools present a high safety hazard and should be closed
immediately under PHC Section 19-13-B33b(g).
NEW PUBLIC POOLS:
PHC Section 19-13-B33b(1)requires that new pools be built in compliance with the Connecticut Public Swimming
Pool Design Guide as'it is amended from time to time. The Design Guide was amended to require drain covers as
set forth in the Act Therefore no plans will be approved after December 19, 2008 without the necessary covers.
Public Pools that have already received approval from the DPH on their plans and specifications and are presently
under construction will be treated as "existing"public pools for compliance with the Act at the time when they seek
approval to open for use.
12/2-/2008 13:16 C860) 610-0857 `fo: South Windsor HD ❑ 3/3
EHS Circular Letter 2008-91
Page 3
BackQround/Issues With Reeards This Act:
The Act was passed prior to the availability of products, specifically main drain covers,necessary for existing pools
to become in compliance with the requirements of the Act Since passage,some main drain covers have become
available allowing some pool owners to come into compliance with the Act.Note that the Act requires that all main"
drain covers be.certified by specific agencies such as the NSF. We are advised the certification process,and then
the manufacturing,distribution and installation process takes time,more time than the Act allotted for. The majority
of pools,like hotel and-condominium pools should be able to comply with the Act since this type of main drain is
very common and products exist for these type pools. Seasonal pools have until when they re-open next season to
comply. The CPSC is supposedly maintaining a web site with a list of cover manufacturers at
www.cnsc.gov/whatsnew.html#pool
The larger indoor pools(municipal pools,school pools, YMCAs, etc.)are at risk for being out of compliance come
December 19,2008. Drains for these type pools can be of a unique design or so large that products have not been
designed,manufactured or certified as being in compliance with the requirements of the Act.Fortunately most of
these pools are gutter pools with gravity drains that are,due to their design,an extremely low risk for entrapment.
Any of these larger pools with drains other than gravity drains,would a safety hazard and should be closed until
they are in compliance with the Act
Many of the additional devices or systems(i.e. SVRS,automatic pump shut of systems)necessary for compliance
with the Act,for the pools with single main drains,other than an unblockable drain,or with multiple main drains
less than three(3)feet apart,are available on the market.
Resources:
CPSC has indicated that they will be maintaining a list of approved products.This list and other information
distributed by CPSC on this Act can be found at:www.cnsc.gov/whatsnew.html#pool
To check out what these covers look like just visit any of the manufacture's websites and search for main drain
covers. They all proudly display their covers and the ASNM/ANSI certification they have received.
cc: Sum=Blancaflor,MS.,Chief,Environmental Health Section
Ellen Blaschinski,R.S.,M,B,A.,Chief,Regulatory Services Branch
(12/2/2008)
South Windsor Health Department
Pool Inspection Report
Name of Facility Inspector
Address Date
S=Satisfactory U=Unsatisfactory N/A=Not applicable
Water Ouality Si ns
1• Free available chlorine* 25• No Lifeguard on Duty
2• Total chlorine* 26. Pool Use Regulations
3. pH* 27. No Diving Shallow Areas
4. Cyanuric acid level 28. Emergency Phone Numbers
5. Total Alkalinity 29• Whirlpool Precautions
.6• Calcium Hardness 7• Test kit available,adequate 30• Directions to Phone/First Aid
Equipment
8• Testing records, frequency 31. Make up water fill
9• Water clarity*, cleanliness 32• Gutters/skimmers
io. Automatic disinfectant 33. Filter Operational*
11. Water temperature(whirlpool/spas)* 34. Flow Meter Reading
12. Safety. 35. Hours for Turnover
13. Fencing/gates(operational) 36. Backwash discharge
14. Depth markers 37. Free of cross connections
15. Life-Guard stands
16. Life-saving equipment . Maintenance/Cleanliness
17. Ladders/handrails/platforms 38. Showering Facilities
18. Diving board 39. Restrooms
19. Telephone/number displayed 40• Deck/walkways
20• Drain covers secure/intact*
21. First Aid kit
22. Chemical storage
23. Pool deck intact
24• Break point color bands
*=Critical Items To Be Corrected Immediately
Pool: Open Closed
Comments
Signature of Person in charge Signature of Inspector