Are You Checking Your Customers' Drain Covers?

As you head into the pool and spa season, APSP wants to make sure that you replace your customers' expired drain covers or suction outlet fitting assemblies (SOFA's). It's been many years since the Federal mandates in the Virginia Graeme Baker have been in effect, including the requirement that
    1.    All suction outlet fitting assemblies (SOFAs) or drain covers manufactured or sold comply with the referenced ANSI/APSP-16 Standard; and â€¨â€¨
    2.    All commercial pool and spa drains have new VGB certified covers.

The standard also requires that manufacturers determine a life expectancy and place a permanent mark on each unit with "Life: X Years" to indicate lifespan. Many manufacturers have designated a life span of 5 years. Others have designated longer or shorter periods. Since numerous fittings have been already installed, many have or are about to reach their expiration date and need to be replaced before the start of the season. 



Ensure Compliance 


To ensure compliance, it is extremely important for installers (including plasterers and service professionals) and pool operators to maintain accurate records confirming the date of installation and provide these to their customers or inspectors.ʉ۬

    •    As with the original fittings, each replacement unit must be compatible with the existing frame and sump, and have a flow rating equal or greater than the maximum system flow.  All units should be installed by an industry professional, in accordance with manufacturer instructions. 

Reconnect with Customers


Builders and installers are strongly encouraged to contact their public and residential customers.  This presents an excellent opportunity to reconnect with original customers, review the pool/spa circulation system, as well as the integrity of the existing drain cover frames. Safety is our core value. â€¨


For your reference, we've developed a FAQ document available here and at APSP.org/Check.

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