Sixteen additional refugees in Veneto have earned the prestigious “Safe and Healthy Refuge” certification, recognising their adherence to sanitary safety and their capacity to promote health. These refuges join the eleven that received the certification in June. The initiative aims to enhance refuge standards in preparation for the upcoming Olympic events in the UNESCO World Heritage Dolomites, which are expected to significantly increase their tourist activity.

Criteria for “Safe and Healthy” refugees

To be certified as “safe and healthy,” refuges must comply with sector-specific sanitary safety regulations and demonstrate possession of at least five of the following requirements:

  • Having an automated external defibrillator (AED) and accessories with proper maintenance.
  • Training for staff in first aid procedures and/or using the AED (BLSD course).
  • Availability of a sphygmomanometer for measuring blood pressure.
  • Menu with indications of allergens and substances that can cause intolerances.
  • Availability of gluten-free meals.
  • Controlled water supply.
  • Procedure for flushing running water for at least two minutes for rooms unoccupied for more than five days (legionella prevention).
  • Availability of high-protection sunscreen and caps with visors/bandanas, visibly displayed and available for purchase upon request (melanoma prevention).

A day focused on the anti-melanoma campaign

The event on July 29th also served as an opportunity to promote “Vivo bene Veneto,” a communication campaign supporting the regional prevention plan promoting healthy lifestyles. The day focused on the anti-melanoma campaign, emphasising the importance of correctly and consistently protecting the skin from solar rays, which are the primary cause of skin cancer. The Prevention Department team assisted the refuges in obtaining the “quality mark,” which serves as a “seal of quality” for hikers.

Photo credits: CAI