The Virginia Graeme Baker Pool & Spa Safety Act
At only seven years old, Virginia Graeme was an accomplished swimmer because she was a longtime member of the community swim team. However, in 2002, Graeme was in a low-depth hot tub and became stuck to a drain cover at the bottom of the tub. Due to the extreme suction, her mother could not release her and it took two men to free her, but by then it was too late as she had drowned. After Virginia’s tragic death, her parents lobbied Congress and were able to pass the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool & Spa Safety Act, which in 2007 was signed into law by the president. The Act mandated new safety standards for all hot tub and pool drains, specifically requiring that all drains must be equipped with one of the following:
- gravity drainage system
- safety vacuum release system
- suction-limiting vent system
- drain disablement
- automatic pump shut off system
- or another device or system approved by the safety commission.
The Act also includes other requirements for hot tub covers and barriers around pools to keep unoccupied children out. Many municipalities who run public pools with hot tubs, or owners who have hot tubs in apartment complexes or hotels, may not know of the new standards mandated by the Act. However, hot tub owners and municipalities have a duty to stay educated on the latest safety laws. If they fail to comply, even if they did not know about the Act, they could be held liable for resulting injuries.
For a free legal consultation, call 980-246-2656
If you or a loved one has been injured or died because of unsafe hot tub conditions that did not meet regulatory standards, call a Peachtree City accident lawyer to inquire about a wrongful death or personal injury claim. Call Shane Smith Law today at (770) 487-8999 for a free consultation.
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