Centre issues fresh SOP for gyms reopening from 5 Aug

Giving a huge relief to gym owners across the country by allowing reopening of gyms from 5 August, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on Monday issued fresh guidelines for gym owners which have to be strictly followed to prevent spread of the Covid-19. The guidelines include mandatory social distancing (minimum 6 ft), masks, contactless payment, safe distance between equipment, Aarogya Setu app, among others.

With Unlock 3.0, the Central government eased many restrictions to bring back life to normalcy. Now as per the new guidelines, people above the age of 65 years or below 10 years are strictly prohibited from entering the gym. In addition, the guidelines have asked owners to ensure safe distancing between gym equipment and have made masks mandatory for all. However, giving some relief, the government has allowed people to avoid masks while doing exercises or practising yoga. Also, individuals whose oxygen levels are below 95 percent will not be allowed to enter the gym.

Before opening the fitness centres, the owners have been directed to redesign and replan the premises including proper placement of equipment. People have been asked to maintain a habit of washing their hands with soap for 40-60 seconds and also to keep using an alcohol-based sanitizer. If there is space outside the premises, arrangements should be made to keep equipment there as well. There should be separate entry and exit routes. The guidelines have asked to maintain proper fresh air and ventilation with minimal staff working on the floor of the gym. Locker facility should be used with proper social distancing. Spas, saunas, steam baths and swimming pools remain closed and spitting is strictly prohibited.

It also includes ensuring queue management, promoting contactless payment, setting the airconditioning devices in the range of 24-30 degree Celsius, and relative humidity at 40-70 per cent, and ensuring adequate cross ventilation. All areas should be regularly disinfected as well and the owners can allow only a set number of clients into the premises at all times. All the dustbins have to be properly covered also.

Gyms have to ensure proper queue management and contactless management all the time with mandatory Aarogya Setu app for all and if any person develops symptoms, the nearest health centre needs to be notified immediately. All guidelines set by the Centre and the state have to be followed.