Excitingspas

The approach taken in the guidelines is to present various options to attain "layers of protection"against entrapment in all pools and spas. The options available depend on whether entrapment hazards are being addressed in new construction or an existing facility. Entrapment hazards can be addressed in new construction by several options, including alternative gutter or overflow circulation systems that eliminate the main drain altogether, or the use of multiple main drains to prevent sole source suction in combination with appropriate drain (pool outlet) covers. Options for existing pools include reconfiguring the circulation system to include multiple main drains with proper drain covers, installing SVRS that respond to an increase in pump suction associated with entrapment and remove the suction forces, or other technology capable of recognizing a potentially hazardous situation such as a sudden increase in pump suction or missing drain cover(s) and responding to remove or prevent the hazard(hereafter referred to as "other technology")

Due to the "human element" involved in the care and maintenance of pools and spas, it is strongly recommended that consideration be given to including an additional and final layer of protection in all pools and spas that use submerged suction outlets, to relieve an entrapping suction force should outlets become blocked or if covers are broken or removed. Options for new construction include, but are not limited to, a properly designed atmospheric vent system, SVRS, or other technology. For existing facilities, options include the installation of an SVRS or other technology. This is especially important in wading pools and older pools with single main drains.