Notice of Building Code revisions for Pool Industry Professionals

The Residential Code adopted specific Standards for Entrapment Avoidance in 2003.

Here is an excerpt from the IRC 2003 section AG 106 on entrapment avoidance and also the IBC 2003 entrapment avoidance requirements that were added to Section 3109 of the International Building Code.  The new requirements can be summarized as follows:

• General. Suction outlets shall be designed to produce circulation throughout the pool or spa. Single outlet systems, such as automatic vacuum cleaner systems, or other such multiple suction outlets whether isolated by valves or otherwise shall be protected against user entrapment.

• Suction Fittings. All Pool and Spa suction outlets shall be provided with a cover that conforms with ANSI/ASME A112.19.8M, or a 12"X 12" drain grate or larger, or an approved channel drain systems.

  Exception: Surface Skimmers

• Atmospheric Vacuum System Required. All pool and spa single or multiple outlet circulation systems shall be equipped atmospheric vacuum relief should grate covers located therein become missing or broken. Such vacuum relief systems shall include at least one approved or engineered method of the type specified herein, as follows:
  

1. Safety vacuum release systems (SVRS) conforming to ANSI/ASME A112.19.17, or
2. Approved gravity drainage system.

• Dual Drain Separation. Single or multiple pump circulation systems shall be provided with a minimum of two (2) suction outlets of the approved type. A minimum horizontal or vertical distance of three feet (3') shall separate such outlets. These suction outlets shall be piped so that water is drawn though them simultaneously through a vacuum relief-protected line to the pump or pumps.

• Pool Cleaner Fittings. Where provided, vacuum or pressure cleaner fitting(s) shall be located in an accessible position(s) at least six (6) inches and not greater than twelve (12) inches below the minimum operational water level or as an attachment to the skimmer(s).”

The International Residential Code revision for 2006 is similar to the 2003 Code revision as pertaining to Entrapment Avoidance, except refers to different size drain covers. Please see text of the code link below.

The International Building Code revision for 2006 is also similar to the 2003 IRC code revision but section AG106.2 was revised to include the following text as pertaining to drain grate size.

• AG106.2 Suction fittings. Pool and spa suction outlets shall have a cover that conforms to ANSI/ASME A112.19.8M, or an 18 inch X 23 inch (457 mm by 584 mm) drain grate or larger, or an approved channel drain system.
  • Exception: Surface skimmers

Suction Vacuum Release Systems.  Models that meet the (SVRS) ASME A112.19.17 standard for entrapment avoidance.
Other code compliant SVRS models may be available, please contact our customer service department for more information.

Vac-Alert: A totally mechanical, non-electric safety system unit that reacts in less than a second to quickly release dangerous pump suction vacuum.  Easy to install, adjust and test. Meets ASME A112.19.17.

SR500: Works on all new and existing single speed residential and commercial pool & spa pumps. Larger then 3HP requires external contactor.  Replaces existing Intermatic time switch. Meets ASME A112.19.17

VA2000L – (Suction Lift) used where circulating pump is either at or above the level of pool surface water.

Turns off pump in milliseconds upon detecting a change in vacuum (without cavitation the pump or losing prime).  Easy to install (no pipes to cut or glue).

SR500PS: Pool Spa Combo Model for single pump pool spa combination with 2 sensors . Meets ASME A112.19.17

VA2000S – (Submerged Suction) used where circulating pump is below the level of pool water surface.

Vac-Alert Product Information

Features: Turns off power to the pump and vents the suction line to atmosphere. Automatic restart after certain activations. Capable of monitoring suction lines for single speed or two speed pumps, with or without a booster pump, that share a common suction line. Complete internal system test during every start-up prior to the monitoring phase. During each start-up, Stratum VRS adjusts to current operational parameters of the system. Designed for use with single phase pumps up to 3HP. Larger or 3-phase pumps require additional motor control equipment, for use with VR1000. For use in suction lift or in flooded suction. Seven-day programmable timer.
Complies with ASTM F23887-04 and ASME 112.19.17

Both the IRC and IBC 2003 and 2006 codes are designed to add an additional layer of protection against entrapment. Both codes also require the use of pool and spa suction outlets that have a cover that conforms to ANSI/ASME A112.19.8M. Many of the drain covers that exist on the market today that do conform to A112.19.8M are considered Anti-Vortex and not Anti-Entrapment. Please check with your local jurisdiction if an Anti-entrapment Drain Cover is required for use.

The DS 360 has a Safe Flow Rate not to exceed 123 gallons per minute. Retrofits up to 2-1/2" pipe. Manufactured of high quality Ridged Vinyl Compound (PVC): meets the NSF 50/ASME/ANSI A112.19.8, Standard, 27 sq. inches open surface area., includes Uni-Screw (316 grade) stainless steel screws and security tool included. Comes in a sealed container to insure all parts intact.
Meets ASME A112.19.8M

Triodyne Inc. Anti-Hair Snare Drain Cover

The Triodyne Anti-Hair Snare Drain cover is available as a replacement cover only or complete with a mud ring. Can adapt to new and existing man made main drain sumps. Available in White, Grey and Black. Comes with Drain Cover Screws.

Meets ASME A112.19.8M

Triodyne Anti-Entrapmen Safety Brief