The Primary and Secondary Healthcare Department (PSHD) has granted conditional permission to reopen gymnasiums, health clubs, salons and barbershops under a set of standard operating procedures (SOPs) and guidelines during the lockdown.
In this regard, PSHD Secretary Captain (R) Muhammad Usman has issued notifications to all concerned authorities. He said that the health department on the recommendations of Technical Working Group (TWG) has issued SOPs for concerned businesses to prevent Covid-19 spread.
He said that coronavirus is a highly transmissible disease which spreads through respiratory droplets produced during coughing, sneezing and talking of the infected persons but we can minimise the risk of disease by taking precautionary measures.
According to the notification, gymnasium and health clubs will make sure hand hygiene and provide facility for handwashing with soap or sanitizer at premises. Both gymnasium staff and its members will wear face mask. Gymnasiums will allow only 50 per cent of the total members’ capacity at the one time to avoid crowding and maintain social distancing. The administration will also display suitable message and guidelines on the entrance as a reminder for staff and employees.
The secretary health said that members will also encourage to keep 2-meter distance from each other even if that involves leaving one machine empty. He further said that furniture, doors, chairs and other high touch surfaces should be disinfected with 0.05 per cent chlorine solution prepared on a daily basis.
He said that it is compulsory for members to bring their own towels which would not be shared with other members. Health club management will ensure the cleanliness of the exercise machines by use of detergent frequently.
It is pertinent to mention here that gymnasium should have cross ventilation system while air-conditioned gymnasium is not allowed. Sanuas, Swimming Pools and Steam Rooms will remain closed. Gym members cannot stay at the gym more than 45 minutes.
