The International Nightlife Association (INA) extends its deepest condolences to the victims, their families, and all those affected by the tragic roof collapse that occurred at the Jet Set nightclub in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, in the early hours of Tuesday. This devastating event has claimed 98 lives and left more than 150 individuals injured, sending shockwaves throughout the global nightlife community.
According to preliminary reports, the incident occurred during a live concert when a large section of the nightclub’s roof collapsed without warning, trapping many attendees beneath the debris. Authorities are currently investigating the structural integrity of the venue, and early findings point to serious building code violations, including overcrowding, poor maintenance, and the absence of regular structural safety inspections. Several individuals, including the venue’s owners and operators, have been detained for questioning as investigations continue.
Joaquim Boadas, Secretary General of the International Nightlife Association, expressed his profound sorrow, stating, “We are devastated by this senseless tragedy and extend our heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of those who lost their lives. We also stand with the injured and wish them a full and swift recovery. From the INA, we demand a thorough investigation and that all parties responsible or complicit through negligence be held accountable. We believe this incident was avoidable and should never have happened.”
INA Reinforces the Need for Stricter Safety Measures in Nightlife Venues Worldwide
This latest tragedy further emphasizes the urgent need to implement and enforce strict safety protocols in nightlife venues worldwide. From the roof collapse in the Dominican Republic to recent incidents elsewhere, such as the nightclub fire atPulse Club in North Macedonia last month, which claimed the lives of 59 people, these events serve as a wake-up call for authorities and venue operators alike.
The INA urges governments, local authorities, and venue managers to ensure all nightlife establishments comply with mandatory licensing, regular structural and fire safety inspections, adequate emergency response training, and the prohibition of hazardous materials and effects in enclosed venues.
The International Nightlife Association was created in response to the urgent need to prevent tragedies like these, which have sadly marked the history of our industry. Such incidents were a driving force behind the establishment of the INA and the development of safety standards like the International Nightlife Safety Checked (INSC) Seal, a global distinction aimed at promoting safety, quality, and prevention in nightlife venues by standardizing safety protocols worldwide. Notably, one of the key requirements of the INSC Seal is obtaining a structural integrity certificationsigned by a licensed architect.
Since 2012, the INA and its affiliated associations in Spain, the United States, the United Kingdom, Colombia, Italy, Mexico, and Argentina have worked relentlessly to promote stricter safety protocols, ensure compliance with international best practices, and foster a culture of responsibility and accountability in the nightlife sector.
The INA reiterates the importance of:
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Mandatory structural safety assessments and certifications
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Enforcement of building codes and licensing regulations
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Regular maintenance and inspection of infrastructure
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Accountability for non-compliance
The International Nightlife Association will continue to work with international institutions like the United Nations, governments, educational institutions like the Appleton Private University, and venue operators to create a safer, more responsible nightlife culture through education, certification, and global cooperation.
