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 Spa operators around the world have opted for self-regulation. Other
than the presence of the International Spa Association or ISPA, there
is not a global organisation, agency or legal entity responsible for
setting global standards for spas per se.
Thailand has set an extraordinary precedent. The state has been working jointly with Thai spa associations and private sector operators to develop specific standards for the Thai spa industry and has taken a step beyond current practice – the regulation and the enforcement of industry standards via legislation.
Under the Ministerial Announcement dated 21 April 2004 issued by the Ministry of Public Health (MOPH), the ministry assumes the role of custodian overseeing the growth and development of the spa sector with one of its duties being to assist in the development of guidelines and specific standards for the Thai spa industry.
Local industry standards are being developed in accordance with existing benchmarks for quality adopted by the global spa industry – a move which lifts the bar for health spas, traditional Thai massage, and long-stay healthcare products and services – the three leading products in this category.
Two sets of standards are applicable to Thai spas and spa operators– Standards dictated by legislative provisions as reflected in the certification standards stipulated in the MOPH Ministerial Announcement dated 21 April 2004 and
World-class standards as defined by internationally-recognised convention and ‘best practices’
A joint state-private sector working committee has been established to identify, define and develop appropriate criteria.
There are five sets of standards that make up the overall standard governing Thai spas as required by Thai law. These articles of law are currently in force. Standards related to the establishment/facility
Standards related the spa operator including duties and responsibilities
Standards for the provision of spa services
Standards related to the spa service provider
Standards pertaining to security
Participation in the MOPH certification programme is voluntary with operators submitting a request. The spa associations have welcomed the active interest and involvement of the Ministry of Public Health as government recognition is deemed to be an important seal of quality, credibility and recognition accorded to an establishment.
Under the abovementioned April 2004 MOPH Ministerial Announcement, operators offering spa, health and beauty and Thai massage services are issued with certificates that are valid for one year and must be extended annually. Operators are required to submit an application for inspection and re-certification 30 days before the existing certificate expires.
NUMBER OF SPA OPERATORS
According to MOPH certification reports, as of July 2005, 238 spa operators had been certified. As participation in the MOPH certification programme is voluntary, the total universe of certified spa operators and certified health and beauty operators offering reputable spa-related services is approximately in the 350 to 450 range.
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 Certification standards for Thai Spas
 Beginning of Thailand's Spa
Aqua Culture
Massage
Thai Spa Cuisine
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