The Dubai Sports Council (DSC) has issued regulations and procedures for the reopening of sports establishments in the emirate.
In accordance with the guidelines set by the Supreme Committee of Crisis and Disaster Management, as well as the consultations conducted with relevant authorities, the Council has announced the precautionary measures developed to protect those who practice sports from coronavirus disease (COVID-19).
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Sanitation
According to DSC, sports facilities and all tools, equipment, and means of transportation shall be sanitized through a certificated sterilization company approved by the Dubai Municipality.
“A permanents sanitization program shall be put in place, and sanitizers shall be provided in the necessary areas in the establishment,” it said in its guidelines.
Bathrooms, toilets, floors, and frequently used equipment that are used or touched by members must be cleaned at all times as well.
Physical distancing
The Council requires social distancing of at least two meters, as well as installation of separators or partitions (like acrylic dividers) between sports equipment if nature of sports activity requires it.
50 percent maximum capacity
DCS noted that each facility is allowed to accept only 50 percent of its normal capacity. Establishments are also required to specify working hours in line with the National Sterilization Program times.
Common areas to remain closed
Common areas like locker rooms, changing rooms, shower booths (shower, sauna, jacuzzi), and waiting areas must remain closed. In addition, trainers are not allowed to gather in any area of the sports facility.
Wearing of face masks
Visitors who are doing light to moderate exercises must wear face masks at all times. For strenuous workouts, however, they can lower or remove the masks.
Thermal Screening
Sports facilities must have an equipment that can measure the temperature of everyone before entering the premises. Anyone with a temperature above 37.5 will not be allowed
Prohibiting entry for children, elderly
Just like in other establishments, DSC states that children below 12 and elderly above 60 are not allowed inside fitness centers and sports facilities.
Prohibiting entry for those with symptoms
Aside from high temperature, those with cough, breathing difficulties, respiratory disease, and immunodeficiency, will not allowed inside.
No water sports allowed
Currently, the Council said that the return of sports activities does not include swimming and other water sports practiced indoors. They are still subject to evaluation.
Strict observance of guidelines
Fitness and sports centers must strictly abide by the guidelines and instructions issued by health authorities, such as the Supreme Committee of Crisis and Disaster management in Dubai.
For more information, register at dubaisc.ae/sportspermitundercovid19
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