What is required for VGB compliance in pools?

VGB compliance, as mandated by the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act, focuses on preventing entrapment and drowning incidents associated with pool drains. To meet this critical safety standard, pools need to be equipped with an anti-entrapment drain grate and a safety device. This helps to ensure that the design and installation of the pool's drainage systems prevent users, especially children, from becoming trapped in or near the drains, which can lead to serious injuries or fatalities.

Using an anti-entrapment drain grate helps reduce the risk of body entrapment, while additional safety features, such as a safety vacuum release system, can deactivate the pump in the event of an entrapment, enhancing the overall safety of the swimming facility. Such compliance is essential for pool operators to ensure the protection of guests and to avoid legal repercussions associated with non-compliance.

Other options like automatic pool covers, safety alarm systems, and manual cleaning systems can contribute to general pool safety and maintenance, but they do not specifically address the entrapment risks emphasized by VGB compliance. Hence, they do not fulfill the regulatory requirements aimed at ensuring safe drain systems in pools and spas.