News

BTEA Makes Pool Safety Compliance Mandatory

by BTM

Mon, 22 October 2018

 bahrain tourism and exhibition authority

Given the average of average of 16 drowning related deaths each year, Bahrain Tourism and Exhibition Authority (BTEA) has made compliance with the Guidelines for Safe Pool Operation (GSPO) mandatory for all hotel and furnished apartment pool operators. The GSPO was developed in partnership with Royal Life Saving Bahrain (RLSB) which is committed to prevent drowning related death and injury and raise awareness on water safety across the Kingdom of Bahrain.

Produced by Royal Life Saving Bahrain (RLSB) in partnership with BTEA, representatives from Civil Defense and the Ministry of Health (BTEA), the GSPO covers various aspects of swimming pool safety, and aims to ensure that all pools in Bahrain are operated in line with international best practice, providing a safe swimming environment.

Establishments who wish to renew their license will now be required to produce an original Pool Safety Certificate from RLSB, which will be issued upon successful completion of an annual safety compliance audit. In order to assist pool operators in understanding their pool category, the GSPO identifies six types of swimming pools with RLSB providing further support in case of uncertainty.

Director of Facilities and Tourism Services at the BTEA, Mr. Hesham Al Saken said the partnership with RLSB was aimed at providing a safe experience for all visitors. “The implementation and enforcement of GSPO at all licensed swimming pools will aid us in strengthening the current safety measures in place and ensuring a safe and recreational water environment, further developing the Kingdom’s tourism sector and promoting it as an ideal tourist destination”, he added.

Safety Services Executive at RLSB, Sam Rahman noted that as an island nation, water safety should be promoted and practiced. RLSB ensures that lifeguards are trained to international standards, and are equipped with the skills and equipment to effectively respond in an emergency. He added that people of all ages will be able to learn basic swimming and safety skills at their swim academy, in order to equip them with the skills required to save lives.

Royal Life Saving Bahrain is a charity registered under the Ministry of Social Development which aims to promote enjoyment and safe recreation of water. RLSB is also a member of the International Life Saving Federation, the world authority for drowning prevention, lifesaving and lifesaving sport.

#BAHRAIN TOURISM AND EXHIBITION AUTHORITY