Standards framework to be developed

In an effort to develop and monitor the standards used by spa operators in the Caribbean, the University of the West Indies (UWI), Cave Hill Campus has recommended a strategy which they hope would lead to national and regional frameworks.

This is according to Dr. Damien Cohall, Chief Consultant of the UWI Health and Wellness Standards Consultancy Team, who delivered remarks at the Caribbean Spa and Wellness Launch recently at the Radisson Aquatica Resort.

He explained that the framework would include the necessary steps involved in instituting standards in this industry, including training and mentorship programmes for those who are already involved in this industry, but whose businesses do not quite meet the standards required.

“Standard implementation, inclusive of the adoption of the standard as industry standard; the establishment of Train the Trainer Programmes; the establishment of mentorship programmes; the creation of public relations channels and the establishment of a gazette/legislative/regulatory framework,” will be some of the elements in this regard, according to Dr. Cohall.

It would also involve the development of a framework that would ensure that these standards are being implemented.

“Developing a National Regulatory Framework, inclusive of the establishment of allied health councils/ professional councils; the establishment of certification bodies; more regularised inspections from the ministries of health, public health inspectorate and ministries of tourism product development and quality departments; and the development of standardised curriculum by the technical and vocational education and training (TVET) Council and programme delivery from accredited training institutions, will be imperative,” it was further noted.

Regional standard

They would also work on the development of a framework aimed at co-ordinating the various training initiatives across the different groups and islands. This move would be facilitated by regional organisations, such as by the Caribbean Association of National Training Associations (CANTA).

“Developing a Regional Regulatory Framework, inclusive of the development of a regional standard; the establishment of a regional regulatory policy and framework, inclusive of a regional council similar to regional medical and dental councils; harmonisation of standardised training through CVQ offerings facilitated by the Caribbean Association of National Training Associations (CANTA) and the establishment of regional efforts in product development and support testing facilities.” (PJT)