Pool Fence Laws in Connecticut
Residential Swimming Pools
According to the state building code, a residential pool is a swimming pool settled at a one or two-family homes and useable only to residents and guests. The Connecticut state building code commands that all in-ground swimming pools in Connecticut be supplied with an atmospheric vacuum relief system (VRS). This system allows to prevent people from being entrapped in the pool by the suction outlets force of pool drains. If the permit for the pool was delivered on or after September 1, 2004, the residential in-ground swimming facilities must be compliant with the law.
Agreeing to the Connecticut building inspector's office, there are 3 manners to meet the building code's requirements to avoid pool entrapment:
- #1 : Electrical switch, which immediately stops the pool pump when it detects a blockage of the pool drain ( i e: caused by a swimmer's body). The device shut off the suction effect.
- #2: Mechanical vacuum reliever in the suction line. If the drain is obstructed for example, the vaccum detects it , the opening of a valve introduce an air-flow into the suction outlets. It breaks the emptiness, and lets go whatever is obstructing the drain.
- #3 : Gravity drainage system which is authorized.
According to the State Poiice Department of Public Safety, follow this tips can help you to prevent tragedies:
- Never go to the pool alone. Use the buddy system and keep eye to eye contact.
- Never let children (even if they can swim) alone in, around or near swimming pools not even for a couple of minutes.
- Maintain the pool safety fence and be careful when you don't use it.
- Have emergency rescue equipment like flotation devices and a phone close by.
- Sign all children up for swimming lessons.
- Apply pool safety rules. No running, messing around or diving.
- Take emergencies situations seriously, don't fake being in trouble when you are not.
- Remove all floating toys out of the pool when not in use so that kids will not be attracted to go after them.
- Learn CPR and water saving techniques.
- Get a professional to inspect all pool enclosure devices and gates around the pool as well as the pump and drain.
Public Swimming Pools
The Public swimming pools in Connecticut must be VGB Federal Pool and Spa Safety Act compliant.
Signed by the U.S. President Bush on December 2007, the VGB Pool and Spa Safety Act (P&SSAct) has been in effect since December 19, 2008. This code is designed to prevent swimming pool accidents.
The VGB Act established U.S. CPSC standards for pool and spa insurance. Under the law, every drain cover must meet ASME/ANSI A112.19.8-2007 in all public pools and spas. The water facilities which have only one main drain different than an unblockable drain must establish a 2nd device to contend for entrapments.
The fabrication, the trade or retail of drain covers which are not in conformity with the safety measures required by the CPSC is prohibited in USA to ensure that all drain covers accessible in the marketplace are compliant with safety specifications.
Each public pool must set up anti-entrapment drain covers and implement other levels of security such as SVRS or barriers.
A pool contractor should verify that the pool and/or spa is compliant with the federal Virginia Graeme Baker Pool & Spa Safety Act.
For supplementary info about local safety requirements for private swimming pools, please call your city's building department. Or to get free swimming pool fence quote please call us at 1-888-919-2229 or search for a local installer near you.
