CPSC Unblockable Drain Interpretation

The US Consumer Product Safety Commission interpretation of an unblockable pool or spa drain opening.

To the pool and spa safety community:

On September 28, 2011, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) voted 3-2 to interpret an unblockable pool or spa drain based on the size of the drain opening and not the size of the drain cover used over the sump. This is an important decision for the pool safety community to be aware of, as CPSC continues to implement the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act.

The Commissioners heard from some members of Congress and families who have lost their children in drain entrapment incidents, and…