Sandeep Kasalkar
TGI Wellness and the Spa Association have pledged to take stringent actions against spa and massage centers that violate the established guidelines. The association has announced that any spa centers failing to adhere to the rules will be monitored, and their details will be forwarded to the relevant government authorities.
Association’s Stand
The association emphasizes the need for the spa industry to gain respect and for any tarnishing of its reputation to stop. For this, strict adherence to government regulations is necessary. When spa centers violate these rules, it damages the entire spa industry. Therefore, TGI Wellness and the Spa Association are working in coordination with the government to enforce discipline and take action against non-compliant centers.
Important Rules and Regulations for Spa Centers
In 2021, the Delhi Government issued the Health Trade License and Regulations for spa/massage centers. The key rules include:
- No Sexual Activity Allowed: Any form of sexual activity is strictly prohibited in spa and massage centers.
- Gender-Specific Therapists: Male massage therapists are required for male clients, and female therapists must attend to female clients.
- Separate Facilities for Men and Women: There must be separate sections for male and female clients with separate entry points.
- No Services Behind Closed Doors: No services are allowed behind closed doors; doors must remain unlatched.
- Open Exterior Doors: The exterior doors of the spa should remain open during operating hours.
- Client Identification: Spa centers are required to record valid identification and contact details of their clients.
- Operating Hours: The center can operate only from 9 AM to 9 PM.
- Adequate Lighting: Proper lighting must be maintained in every room or area.
- Separate Restrooms and Toilets: Separate restrooms and toilets for men and women with proper drainage facilities.
- Changing Rooms: There must be separate changing rooms for men and women.
- No Residential Use: Spa centers must not be located in residential areas or used for residential purposes.
- Hygiene and Cleanliness: Cleanliness staff should be employed for regular cleaning and housekeeping.
- Certified Massage Therapists: All therapists must be professionally certified in therapy, physiotherapy, or acupressure.
- Staff Details: Up-to-date details of cleaning and other staff members must be maintained.
- Identification Cards for Staff: All staff must wear their identification badges issued by their employer.
- Minimum Age Requirement: All employees must be at least 18 years old.
- Police Verification: Before receiving a health trade license, the owner/manager must undergo police verification.
- No Criminal Background: The spa center must not be involved in any criminal activities, especially related to immoral trade or sexual offenses.
- Compliance with All Laws: The spa center must comply with the Immoral Traffic Prevention Act (ITPA) and other applicable laws.
- Display of License Details: The license number, name, and operational hours must be prominently displayed at the center.
- Site Plan and Declaration: A site plan, number of beds, staff details, helpline number, and anti-prostitution declaration must be displayed in English and Hindi.
- CCTV Cameras: CCTV cameras must be installed at the entrance, reception, and public areas, with recordings stored for three months.
- Internal Committee Against Sexual Harassment: For centers with more than 10 employees, a sexual harassment prevention committee must be established.
- Compliance with COVID-19 Guidelines: Centers must adhere to government guidelines and court directives regarding COVID-19 protocols.
- Declaration Submission: A declaration confirming adherence to all rules must be submitted with the license application.
Inspection and Enforcement Regulations
- License Granted Only After Inspection: A health trade license will only be issued after an inspection.
- Right to Inspect: Health officials, police officers, and other relevant authorities have the right to inspect the center’s premises and records.
- Legal Action for Violations: In case of violations, legal and penal action will be taken against the spa center as per applicable laws.
- Police Action for Criminal Activities: Police action will be initiated if the spa center is involved in illegal activities.
Association’s Message
The message to spa centers is clear: “Follow the rules or face strict action!” Through these efforts by TGI Wellness and the Spa Association, the industry aims to become more transparent and secure.