Italian Chamber approves bipartisan amendment tightening pool safety standards

The Italian Chamber of Deputies voted unanimously (244 votes) to approve a bipartisan amendment to the Sport Decree that introduces stricter safety rules for swimming pools. The measure targets suction devices—bocchettoni, bottom grates and water‑recirculation systems—requiring them to be designed to prevent the “ventosa” suction effect that can trap swimmers, especially children. It applies to public pools, private facilities open to the public and other collective‑use installations. Facilities that fail to meet the new standards must close immediately and may reopen only after compliance.

The amendment also creates a €4.7 million fund for 2026 to support public pools in carrying out the required upgrades. The rules become operative on 1 August. The previously proposed mandatory swim‑cap for swimmers under 16 was removed from the final text. Ministers Matteo Salvini, Andrea Abodi and Nello Musumeci highlighted the urgency after recent tragic incidents, including the death of 11‑year‑old Alice Ferrari in Sestri Levante.

The legislation is expected to improve pool safety nationwide, though opposition parties have criticised the amendment as insufficient and overly generic.