The P&SS Act and You
Find out whether the P&SS Act applies to your public pool or spa.
The Virginia Graeme Baker Pool & Spa Safety Act (P&SS Act) defines what pools and spas are considered “public” in the United States and covered by the law’s public pool and spa regulations.
The public provisions of the P&SS Act apply to:
- All pools and spas generally open to the public
- Pools open only to residents of apartment buildings, condominium complexes or multifamily residential areas
- Pools and spas open to guests of a hotel or resort
- Government pool facilities
The public requirements of the P&SS Act do not apply to:
- Therapy pools– A therapy pool at a rehabilitation center limited at all times to the center’s patients and not open to the public generally would not be subject to the requirements of the Act. However, a therapy pool in a salon/spa would meet the definition of a “public pool” and would be subject to the Act.
- Baptismals– Pools intended for use only for baptisms do not fall under the definition of swimming pool or spa under the Act, as they are not intended for swimming or recreational bathing.
- Fountains– Fountains are not covered under the law unless they are intended for swimming and recreational bathing.
To assist industry professionals in complying with the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool & Spa Safety Act, CPSC staff has addressed key issues surrounding the implementation of the statute in its staff interpretation.
Read the full text of the P&SS Act.
