Turkey introduces new safety regulations for accommodation facilities

New regulations are being implemented for simple accommodation facilities in Turkey to raise service and safety standards. Under the new rules, facilities with 25 or more rooms must provide a reception area. Additionally, businesses must ensure proper temperature controls for food and beverage storage and employ staff with first aid certification.

Safety measures for swimming pools are also being tightened. Facilities with pools must employ at least two certified lifeguards, regardless of the pool's size. Mandatory requirements include filtration and disinfection systems, non-slip flooring, safety steps, and depth indicators. Pool rules must be provided in Turkish and at least two foreign languages. Furthermore, facilities must provide separate children's pools with a maximum depth of 50 centimeters, unless the facility explicitly states it only accepts guests aged 12 and older.

These regulatory shifts follow concerns regarding safety in bungalow tourism, particularly in regions like Sapanca. Recent incidents involving the deaths of several children in private bungalow pools have highlighted the need for layered security, such as physical barriers to prevent uncontrolled access and improved lighting, as current laws do not mandate individual lifeguards for every private bungalow pool.