LEONARDTOWN, Md. (Dec. 22, 2008)—New suction outlet covers have been installed at the Great Mills community swimming pool. This is in response to the Virginia Graeme Baker (VGB) Pool and Spa Safety Act which took effect on December 19, 2008.
The Act requires that all public swimming pools and spas have suction outlet covers compliant with ASME/ANSI A112.19.8 - 2007. This safety measure addresses the accidental drownings that occurred across the country when young children were trapped to heavy suction outlets below the water surface.
The VGB Act was featured on the NBC Today Show on December 16. The segment highlighted challenges for owners of the many public swimming pools that need to come in to compliance. It was noted that there may not be enough covers available to meet the vast need.
The Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene has oversight of the public swimming pool industry. Great Mills Pool staff works with the local Health Department to insure compliance.