Need to start working on that COVID 15 (pounds)?
Here are the new rules for when you go to your gym or fitness centre, during this Phase 3 of re-opening.
Some restrictions are eased, but others continue.
What you need to know today about working out at your gym or other fitness facility.
Precautions still required
The new changes still require:
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two metres distance be maintained between those in the gym;
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any equipment that is provided for the use by users of the facility must be cleaned and disinfected between each use;
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Activities where fixed structures cannot be cleaned and disinfected between each users cannot take place;
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All facilities must follow applicable worker health and safety requirements as outlined in the Occupational Health and Safety Act in addition to any applicable municipal bylaws.
Best practices
A new guide has been launched by the province for sports and recreational fitness facilities. It recommends, amongst other precautions:
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Proper signage to remind the users of proper hand hygiene and health etiquette;
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Providing alcohol-based hand rub;
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Removing all equipment that cannot easily be cleaned or disinfected;
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Encouraging patrons to bring their own equipment, and limiting the sharing of equipment;
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Increasing cleaning frequency;
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Cleaning equipment between each users;
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Decreasing touch points (such as keys, lockers, etc…)
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Ensuring physical distancing; Consider putting signs and cues up or on the floor, and consider increasing distance for high intensity exercise with rapid inhalation and deep exhalation (such as … AGM and board meetings?);
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Implementing staggered schedules, considering online booking, blocking time to clean the facilities;
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Improving ventilation systems and avoiding air recirculation.
Screen your users!
Screening your users is still key:
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Implement active screening of your users;
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Consider using Ontario’s Covid Self-assessment tool;
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Consider online screening prior to the user’s arrival on site;
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Those who present symptoms or risks should not be allowed to use the gym;
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Keep record of all individuals (including names, contact information, dates and times) who enter your facility.
Consider implementing an online screening and booking process for your users ahead of their arrival and keep track of your users!
Corporations can continue to apply their own protocols
With these changes, the Ontario government also reminds everyone that:
businesses, not-for-profits, and municipalities may need or choose to take more time before implementing this change in capacity limits; and
any facility may also adopt their own protocols that are more restrictive than the guidance.
