Overview

State and Federal Legislation

Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH) Code 19-13-B33b. Public pools. Current with materials published in Connecticut Law Journal through 09/21/2004. Includes requirements that apply to any public pool.

Public Act 13-161: An Act Concerning Pool Safety at Public Schools (2013). 
Public Act 13-161: (1) requires all public schools to have at least two qualified staff members on duty for all classes at a swimming pool and (2) establishes minimum qualifications for pool staff. 

It requires all local and regional boards of education to develop swimming pool safety plans.  also, by July 1, 2014, the public health commissioner must adopt regulations to include swimming pools and natatoriums in schools in the existing regulations regarding public schools.

Federal Public Law 110-140: Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act (January 2012 Version). The Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Safety Spa Act (P&SS Act) was enacted by Congress and signed by President George W. Bush on December 19, 2007.  Designed to prevent the tragic and hidden hazard of drain entrapments and eviscerations in pools and spas, the law became effective on December 19, 2008.

Under the law, all public pools and spas must have code-compliant drain covers installed and a second anti-entrapment system installed when there is a single main drain other than an unblockable drain.

Sample Plans

Waterbury Board of Education - Aquatic Safety Policy
Connecticut Interscholastic Athletics Conference (CIAC) and Connecticut Association of Athletic Directors (CAAD) - Sample Pool Safety Plan

Resources, Codes, Requirements and Sample Policies

Recommended Swimming Pool Safety Policy Criteria
An Act Concerning Pool Safety at Public Schools. Public Act No. 13-161 
San Diego Swimming Pool Operator's Guide

Additional Resources

American Red Cross
YMCA of the USA
U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) Pool Safety Web Site