The COVID-19 pandemic has urged many countries to issue new regulations to assure safety in pool environments. Greece enforced stricter requirements in 2020 and 2021 for hotel pools. However, even though regulations are important, they can only be effective when accepted by the pool managers and users. The aim of this study was to (a) assess the acceptability of the regulations by hotel managers; (b) assess compliance during the summer touristic periods in 2020 and 2021; and (c) identify challenges during the implementation of the regulations that need to be addressed. Several non-compliances from the regulations were identified. Continuous chlorination with an automatic chlorinator was not a regular practice and suggested water circulation rates were poorly met. The microbiological and chemical testing frequency of the pool water and keeping the number of bathers allowed per surface area in the pool were reported as the most difficult requirements to meet. Most pool managers agreed that new measures contribute to the pool users’ safety; however, they reported increased cost as the main impediment for their implementation. The modernization of regulations governing swimming pools’ function, in terms of risk assessment orientation, will contribute to the adoption of an integrated compliance strategy on emerging health issues, such as COVID-19.

Guaranteeing the safety of swimming pools is a paramount concern worldwide. Robust risk assessment and management practices are crucial for ensuring public safety. A comprehensive understanding of the chemical equilibrium required in pool water and a thorough assessment of the associated physicochemical, microbiological, operational, and maintenance risks have become prerequisites for effective swimming pool management. The aim of the present study was to identify, for the first time in Greece, all the possible hazards at different swimming pools as a first step of the scientific-based risk assessment procedure. Six distinct swimming pools, comprising two open sports pools, two indoor pools, and two children’s pools designed for baby swimming, were included. Water samples were collected for physicochemical and microbiological analyses, and on-site inspections were conducted across the swimming pools. A detailed evaluation of potential identified hazards categorized risks based on their level of impact and likelihood of occurrence; mitigation measures were proposed. Comprehensive risk assessments are essential for swimming pools, as they need to address the specific hazards and vulnerabilities of each facility.