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B.C.'s Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry during a COVID-19 update (photo courtesy of the Government of B.C. / Flickr)
By Liam Verster
COVID Restrictions

Restrictions on bars and events extended, gyms can reopen under new guidelines

Jan 18, 2022 | 2:31 PM

The Provincial Health Officer’s orders on bars, restaurants and events have been extended to February 16.

“This will apply to the closures we have right now at bars and nightclubs; limitations that we have at restaurants to make sure that we are minimizing the risk of transmission in those settings; and the capacity limits, the 50 per cent capacity limits for theatres, stadiums, et cetera,” said Dr. Bonnie Henry.

This order will be reassessed at the end of its extended time line to determine what steps should be taken next.

While those restrictions will remain in place, Henry said the province is taking a ‘cautious step’ and reopening gyms and exercise facilities starting on January 20.

Those facilities will need to follow capacity limits and check the vaccination status of patrons. Patrons will also need to maintain a seven metre squared physical distancing bubble, which equates to staying about 2.5 metres away from other people in each direction.

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“The spacing requirement applies to people working out on their own, whether it’s doing weights or on a treadmill, but also applies to group fitness classes to have that unencumbered space around people,” said Henry.

The guidelines also require enhanced ventilation in gyms and fitness centres with no fans or heaters being used; pre-bookings and allowing times between classes; and enhanced cleaning measures. Masks must also be worn at all times by everyone inside the facilities except when exercising, though Henry does recommend wearing a mask if possible while exercising.

Henry said the province has been working with the Fitness Industry Council of Canada, who have helped put together these new guidelines.

Henry added that all businesses must have a COVID-19 safety plan in place, saying this will help reduce the risk of transmission and the impacts staff member infections will have on the business.

by Liam Verster
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