Entrapment Avoidance Requirements

Notice of Building Code revisions for Pool Industry Professionals

Please check with your local jurisdiction to find out what is the latest adopted code level you must comply with.

IRC 2003

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).”