The Kansspelautoriteit (KSA), the Dutch gaming authority, has announced plans to improve the duty of care at gaming halls across the Netherlands. Following a series of inspections conducted in December 2023 and January 2024, KSA inspectors visited 20 gaming facilities to assess how effectively duty of care measures are being implemented.
Key Findings from Inspections
The findings revealed that while most gaming halls have taken steps to meet the duty of care requirements stipulated by the Remote Gambling Act (KOA Act), there are areas where implementation needs improvement. The KOA Act mandates that gaming halls must take measures to prevent and limit gambling addiction as much as possible. Despite the good intentions and policies in place, the practical application of these measures often needs to be revised.
One significant observation was that gaming halls generally know the personal circumstances and gambling behaviors of regular players. However, more proactive intervention is often needed. This includes addressing players directly, registering warning signs, and implementing necessary interventions.
Areas for Improvement
All inspected gaming halls recognized long playing times as a concerning signal, but the methods for monitoring this were only sometimes well-defined. Furthermore, the venues have yet to implement a maximum playing time, which is particularly important for arcades that are open 24 hours a day and have no natural stopping point for players.
Additionally, all the arcades that were visited allowed playing on multiple machines and the reservation of gaming machines. While not prohibited, these practices can contribute to excessive gambling behavior. Other indicators of excessive gambling, such as frequent and lengthy visits and a high number of debit card transactions, were not adequately monitored by several gaming halls.
Following the inspections, the KSA sent letters to each visited arcade detailing specific areas for improvement. The KSA has also announced that it will issue more detailed guidance for all license holders later this year, elaborating on the findings and providing specific attention to the duty of care in gaming halls. This guidance will be followed by stricter monitoring to ensure compliance.
KSA’s Commitment to Enhanced Oversight
The KSA’s initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance the regulation of the Dutch gaming industry. With the market set to undergo significant revisions from October 1, these improvements aim to ensure that gaming halls adhere to high standards of care and contribute to safer gambling environments.
The KSA’s findings highlight the need for ongoing vigilance and proactive measures in the gaming industry. By addressing the identified gaps and enhancing duty of care practices, the KSA aims to protect players and ensure responsible gaming. The upcoming guidance and stricter monitoring will be crucial in achieving these objectives.
Source:
Kansspelautoriteit stuurt aan op verbetering zorgplicht speelhallen, kansspelautoriteit.nl, July 4, 2024.