SIST-TS CEN/TS 17676:2023
(Main)Guidelines for the safe operation of fitness centres during an infectious outbreak
Guidelines for the safe operation of fitness centres during an infectious outbreak
This document specifies guidelines and recommendations for the safe operation of fitness centres during an infectious outbreak. This document sets out guidelines relative to the wide range of operating models for fitness centres with a framework of good practices for operators to use.
This includes the operational and managerial procedures for offering and delivering the service covering users, staff, and contractors whilst on the premises. These guidelines will cover, but are not limited to:
- overall risk reduction
- the practise of social distancing and control of users
- air treatment and ventilation
- cleaning, hygiene and health protocols
- management and training of staff and use of personal protective equipment
This document is applicable to all publicly accessible fitness centres where physical activity for groups and/or individuals is delivered to all of its users in order to provide a safe and controlled environment. This document does not cover fitness centres where physical activity is exclusively secondary business.
Note: A fitness centre is a publicly accessible place where diverse physical fitness activities for groups and/or individuals is delivered. Note: A fitness centre can comprise of an exercising area with equipment-based strength training, free weights, portable/fixed equipment and/or most often also cardiovascular training equipment/machines and/or frequently also group fitness training in specific rooms or in a studio.
Leitlinien für den sicheren Betrieb von Fitness-Studios während des Ausbruchs von Infektionskrankheiten
Dieses Dokument legt Leitlinien und Empfehlungen für den sicheren Betrieb und die Leitung von Fitness-Studios während eines Ausbruchs von Infektionskrankheiten fest. Dieses Dokument legt Leitlinien in Bezug auf die breite Palette von Betriebsmodellen für Fitness-Studios mit einem Rahmen von bewährten Verfahren fest, die die Betreiber anwenden können. Dies umfasst die betrieblichen und verwaltungstechnischen Verfahren für das Anbieten und Erbringen der Dienstleistung, die Benutzer, Mitarbeiter und Auftragnehmer während des Aufenthalts in der Einrichtung betreffen.
Die Leitlinien dieses Dokuments umfassen, sind aber nicht beschränkt auf:
a) Verringerung des Gesamtrisikos;
b) die Praxis der physischen Distanzierung und Kontrolle der Benutzer;
c) Luftaufbereitung und Belüftung;
d) Reinigungs-, Hygiene- und Gesundheitsprotokolle;
e) Leitung und Schulung des Personals und Einsatz von persönlicher Schutzausrüstung.
Dieses Dokument ist anwendbar für alle öffentlich zugänglichen Fitness-Studios, in denen allen Nutzern körperliche Aktivität für Gruppen und/oder Einzelpersonen angeboten wird, um eine sichere und kontrollierte Umgebung zu schaffen.
Dieses Dokument ist nicht anwendbar für Fitness-Studios, in denen körperliche Aktivität ausschließlich ein Nebengeschäft ist.
Anforderungen an Betrieb und Aufsicht wie beschrieben in
EN 17229 Fitness-Studios — Anforderungen an Studioausstattung und -betrieb — Operative und betriebliche Anforderungen, und
prEN 17229 2 Fitness-Studios — Anforderungen an Studioausstattung und -betrieb — Teil 2: Anforderungen an das Aufsichts- und Betriebspersonal
gelten vollständig für dieses Dokument.
WARNUNG — Fitnesstrainer bleiben innerhalb ihres Kompetenzbereichs. Benutzer von Fitnesseinrichtungen, die sich von einer Infektion erholt haben oder unter deren geistigen oder psychischen Folgen leiden, benötigen möglicherweise höher qualifizierte Fitnesstrainer, die sie beim Training beaufsichtigen. EN 17229 definiert die Anforderungen an höher qualifizierte Fitnesstrainer wie z. B. Fortgeschrittener Fitnesstrainer (en: Advanced Fitness Instructor) oder Spezialisten für Gesundheitsübungen (en: Exercise for Health Specialists), die sich auf Niveau 5 oder höher des Europäischen Qualifikationsrahmens (EQR) (en: European Qualification Framework, EQF) [1] befinden. Möglicherweise besteht auch die Notwendigkeit, dass Fitnesstrainer den Rat und die Anleitung anderer medizinischer Fachkräfte einholen.
Directives pour le fonctionnement sécurisé des centres de remise en forme pendant une épidémie infectieuse
Smernice za varno delovanje fitnes centrov med izbruhom nalezljivih bolezni
Ta dokument podaja smernice in priporočila za varno delovanje fitnes centrov med izbruhom nalezljivih bolezni. Ta dokument določa smernice v zvezi s širokim naborom modelov delovanja za fitnes centre z okvirom dobrih praks, ki jih lahko uvedejo upravljavci.
To vključuje operativne in vodstvene postopke za ponujanje oziroma zagotavljanje storitev, ki zajemajo uporabnike, osebje in izvajalce, medtem ko se zadržujejo v tamkajšnjih prostorih. Te smernice med drugim vključujejo:
– splošno zmanjšanje tveganja;
– omejevanje socialnih stikov in nadzor uporabnikov;
– obdelavo zraka in prezračevanje;
– protokole čiščenja ter higienske in zdravstvene protokole;
– vodenje in usposabljanje osebja ter uporabo osebne varovalne opreme.
Ta dokument se uporablja za vse javno dostopne fitnes centre, v katerih so telesne aktivnosti za skupine in/ali posameznike na voljo vsem uporabnikom, da se zagotovi varno in nadzorovano okolje. Ta dokument ne zajema fitnes centrov, v katerih so telesne aktivnosti izključno sekundarna dejavnost.
Opomba: Fitnes center je javno dostopen prostor, kjer se izvajajo različne telesne in vadbene dejavnosti za skupine in/ali posameznike. Opomba: Fitnes center lahko obsega vadbeni prostor z opremo za pridobivanje moči, prostimi utežmi, prenosno/fiksno opremo in/ali najpogosteje tudi opremo/napravami za kardiovaskularno vadbo ter/ali pogosto tudi poseben prostor ali studio za skupinsko vadbo.
General Information
Standards Content (Sample)
SLOVENSKI STANDARD
01-januar-2023
Smernice za varno delovanje fitnes centrov med izbruhom nalezljivih bolezni
Guidelines for the safe operation of fitness centres during an infectious outbreak
Leitlinien für den sicheren Betrieb von Fitness-Studios während des Ausbruchs von
Infektionskrankheiten
Directives pour le fonctionnement sécurisé des centres de remise en forme pendant une
épidémie infectieuse
Ta slovenski standard je istoveten z: CEN/TS 17676:2022
ICS:
03.080.30 Storitve za potrošnike Services for consumers
97.220.01 Športna oprema in Sports equipment and
pripomočki na splošno facilities in general
2003-01.Slovenski inštitut za standardizacijo. Razmnoževanje celote ali delov tega standarda ni dovoljeno.
CEN/TS 17676
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION
SPÉCIFICATION TECHNIQUE
October 2022
TECHNISCHE SPEZIFIKATION
ICS 03.080.30; 97.220.01
English Version
Guidelines for the safe operation of fitness centres during
an infectious outbreak
Directives pour le fonctionnement sécurisé des centres Leitlinien für den sicheren Betrieb von Fitness-Studios
de remise en forme pendant une épidémie infectieuse während des Ausbruchs von Infektionskrankheiten
This Technical Specification (CEN/TS) was approved by CEN on 20 June 2022 for provisional application.
The period of validity of this CEN/TS is limited initially to three years. After two years the members of CEN will be requested to
submit their comments, particularly on the question whether the CEN/TS can be converted into a European Standard.
CEN members are required to announce the existence of this CEN/TS in the same way as for an EN and to make the CEN/TS
available promptly at national level in an appropriate form. It is permissible to keep conflicting national standards in force (in
parallel to the CEN/TS) until the final decision about the possible conversion of the CEN/TS into an EN is reached.
CEN members are the national standards bodies of Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia,
Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway,
Poland, Portugal, Republic of North Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Türkiye and
United Kingdom.
EUROPEAN COMMITTEE FOR STANDARDIZATION
COMITÉ EUROPÉEN DE NORMALISATION
EUROPÄISCHES KOMITEE FÜR NORMUNG
CEN-CENELEC Management Centre: Rue de la Science 23, B-1040 Brussels
© 2022 CEN All rights of exploitation in any form and by any means reserved Ref. No. CEN/TS 17676:2022 E
worldwide for CEN national Members.
Contents Page
European foreword . 3
Introduction . 4
1 Scope . 5
2 Normative references . 5
3 Terms and definitions . 6
4 Risk assessment of the fitness centre’s facilities . 9
5 Users, staff and contractors using the fitness facility . 10
6 Cleaning and hygiene control . 21
7 Ventilation . 23
8 Protocols in the facility . 25
Annex A (informative) Guidance on undertaking a risk assessment . 26
A.1 General. 26
A.2 Occupational risk assessment in the context of operating during an infectious
outbreak . 26
A.3 The start and conduct of a risk assessment study . 28
A.4 Risk overarching principles . 29
A.5 Risk assessment study . 29
Bibliography . 31
European foreword
This document (CEN/TS 17676:2022) has been prepared by Technical Committee CEN/TC 136 “Sports,
playground and other recreational facilities and equipment”, the secretariat of which is held by DIN.
Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this document may be the subject of
patent rights. CEN shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.
Any feedback and questions on this document should be directed to the users’ national standards body.
A complete listing of these bodies can be found on the CEN website.
According to the CEN/CENELEC Internal Regulations, the national standards organisations of the
following countries are bound to announce this Technical Specification: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria,
Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland,
Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Republic of
North Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey and the United
Kingdom.
Introduction
The COVID-19 pandemic experience of 2020-21 showed a mixed picture of how fitness facilities were
able to open and operate under varied national and sometimes legal restrictions. A review of the guidance
offered by European governments, health officials and experts from the fitness and sport sectors showed
variation in their application of approaches. With the benefit of the practical experience from the COVID-
19 pandemic, it has been possible to draft this document containing European guidelines and
recommendations that help implement the safest possible health and hygiene measures at fitness centres,
so that they are potentially able to operate in the event of future infectious outbreaks.
These guidelines can be used as a tool to:
— minimize the spread of a pandemic virus;
— keep users, staff and contractors as risk free as possible, and,
— bring clarity and to establish user confidence.
When deemed appropriate by health authorities, keeping fitness facilities open during an infectious
outbreak will help to:
— maintain levels of health-enhancing physical activity, which will also mitigate longer-term healthcare
costs and the effects of mental welfare and social isolation;
— underpin the financial security of the business;
— keep fitness facility staff in employment;
— keep a community resource operating.
Allowing people to exercise safely and effectively considerably adds to their social, mental and physical
wellbeing.
This document can be used to reduce the risk of infectious transmission so that if possible, and within
national government requirements, fitness facilities could remain open during an outbreak. The expertise
of independent external experts from the following fields of work has been considered in the
development of this document:
— Virology
— Public health
— Membership systems (incl. data protection issues)
— Control of aerosol transmission
Additionally, national guidance documents published during the COVID-19 pandemic from across Europe
have been widely consulted in the preparation of this document.
1 Scope
This document specifies guidelines and recommendations for the safe operation and management of
fitness centres during an infectious outbreak. This document sets out guidelines relative to the wide
range of operating models for fitness centres with a framework of good practices for operators to use.
This includes the operational and managerial procedures for offering and delivering the service covering
users, staff, and contractors whilst on the premises.
The guidelines of this document cover, but are not limited to:
a) overall risk reduction;
b) the practise of physical distancing and control of users;
c) air treatment and ventilation;
d) cleaning, hygiene and health protocols;
e) management and training of staff and use of personal protective equipment.
This document is applicable to all publicly accessible fitness centres where physical activity for groups
and/or individuals is delivered to all its users in order to provide a safe and controlled environment.
This document does not cover fitness centres where physical activity is exclusively secondary business.
Requirements of operations and supervision as described in
— EN 17229 Fitness centres - Requirements for centre amenities and operation - Operational and
managerial requirements, and
— prEN 17229-2 Fitness centres - Requirements for centre amenities and operation - Part 2: Requirements
for supervision and staff
fully apply to this document.
WARNING Fitness instructors stay within the scope of their professional practice. Users of fitness
facilities who have recovered from or have suffered mental or psychological implications from an
infection may need higher skilled fitness instructors to supervise them exercising. EN 17229 defines the
requirements for higher skilled fitness instructors such advanced fitness instructor or exercise for health
specialists which are referenced to Level 5 or above of the European Qualification Framework (EQF) [1].
Possibly, there may also be the need for fitness instructors to seek the advice and guidance of other
healthcare professionals.
2 Normative references
There are no normative references in this document.
3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document, the following terms and definitions apply.
ISO and IEC maintain terminological databases for use in standardization at the following addresses:
• IEC Electropedia: available at https://www.electropedia.org/
• ISO Online browsing platform: available at https://www.iso.org/obp
3.1
fitness centre
publicly accessible place where diverse physical fitness activities for groups and/or individuals are
delivered
Note 1 to entry: A fitness centre can comprise of an exercising area with equipment-based strength training, free
weights, portable/fixed equipment and/or most often also cardiovascular training equipment/machines and/or
frequently also group fitness training in specific rooms or in a studio.
3.2
infectious diseases
diseases caused by pathogenic microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, parasites or fungi
3.3
disinfection
removal, destruction or de-activation of microorganisms on objects or surfaces
[SOURCE: ISO 14644-5:2004; definition 3.1.4 [2]]
3.4
physical distancing
practice of maintaining a greater than usual physical space between oneself and other people or of
avoiding direct contact with people or objects in public places during the outbreak of a contagious disease
in order to minimize exposure and reduce the transmission of infection
[SOURCE: Merriam-Webster [3]]
3.5
face mask
tight-fitting respiratory interface covering the mouth, nose, eyes and chin, worn
specially to reduce the spread of infectious agents, such as viruses or bacteria
3.6
face mask
CE marked medical device intended to limit the transmissions of infective agents from
the user
3.7
face covering
facepiece covering the mouth, nose and chin fitted with the head harness which can be head or ears
attachment
Note 1 to entry: The covering can be made of materials such as polypropylene fibre or cotton fabric
Note 2 to entry: Face coverings are not classified as PPE according to Regulation EU/2016/425
Note 3 to entry: Face coverings are mainly intended to protect others and not the wearer. When used correctly, they
cover the nose and mouth. A face covering minimizes the projection of user's respiratory droplets saliva, sputum or
respiratory secretions when talking, coughing or sneezing. This face covering may also limit penetration in the
user’s area of nose and mouth of the respiratory droplets from external origin without claiming the user protection.
It also prevents this user’s area from any contact with the hands
[SOURCE: CWA 17553:2020, definition 2.3 [4] – modified – The preferred term has been changed from
the term ‘community face covering’ to the term ‘face covering’]
3.8
biocidal product
any substance or mixture, in the form in which it is supplied to the user, consisting of, containing or
generating one or more active substances, with the intention of destroying, deterring, rendering
harmless, preventing the action of, or otherwise exerting a controlling effect on, any harmful organism
by any means other than mere physical or mechanical action
Note 1 to entry: This also includes any substance or mixture, generated from substances or mixtures which do not
themselves fall under the first indent, to be used with the intention of destroying, deterring, rendering harmless,
preventing the action of, or otherwise exerting a controlling effect on, any harmful organism by any means other
than mere physical or mechanical action.
[SOURCE: Regulation (EU) No 528/2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 22 May 2012
[5]]
3.9
aerosol particle
small infectious particle that can remain in the air for a long period of time
Note 1 to entry: A long period of time can range from at least 5 min to, in many cases, hours
Note 2 to entry: The size of aerosol particles should be below 100 micrometres in i.e. their aerodynamic diameter
3.10
droplet
larger respiratory particle that carries virus, typically deposited on people or surfaces less than 2 m from
the source and will normally settle out of the air in less than 5 minutes.
Note 1 to entry: Most respiratory droplets are between 10 and 100 µm in diameter, but a small number can be up
to 1,500 µm
3.11
ventilation
designed supply and removal of air to and from a treated space, replacing, supplying or removing air by
either natural or mechanical means to or from a space
3.12
air conditioning
control of the temperature in a space
3.13
personal protective equipment
PPE
device or appliance designed to be worn or held by an individual for protection against one or more health
and safety hazards and designed to provide adequate protection against the risks against which it is
intended to protect
Note 2 to entry: According to Regulation (EU) 2016/425 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 9 March
2016 on Personal Protective Equipment [6], PPE must be designed and manufactured so that, in the foreseeable
expectations of its usage, the end-user will be able to perform the risk-related activity normally whilst experiencing
the highest level of protection possible
3.14
competent person
individual who has acquired through instruction, qualifications or experience, or a combination of these,
the essential skills enabling that person to perform specified tasks
3.15
special needs
any of various difficulties, such as a physical, emotional, behavioural, or learning disability or impairment,
that causes an individual to require additional or specialised services or accommodations
[SOURCE: Merriam-Webster [7] – modified – The definition has been expanded by removing the brackets
between ‘such physical, emotional, behavioral, or learning disability or impairment’ and by removing the
part ‘(such as in education or recreation)’
3.16
vulnerable person
individual who is at higher risk of severe illness from infection, or a greater risk of harm from products,
services or systems, due to age, level of literacy, physical or mental condition or limitations, or inability
to access fitness facility
3.17
at risk group
certain groups of people at greater risk of severe illness if contracting an infection of a virus or bacteria
3.18
perturbation
disturbance of motion, course, arrangement, or state of equilibrium
[SOURCE: Merriam-Webster [8]]
4 Risk assessment of the fitness centre’s facilities
4.1 General
An infectious outbreak is a public health emergency. It is the responsibility of the fitness facility operator
to assess and to manage the risks in the event of an infectious outbreak, especially in terms of minimizing
the risk to the health of its users, staff and contractors.
This requires a risk assessment of the relevant operational procedures of the facility. The risk assessment
shall be properly documented and held available for inspection. Any revisions or updates, e.g. changing
of national public health guidance or requirements, are to be properly documented as well.
4.2 Purpose of risk assessment
The risk assessment shall focus on identifying appropriate and considered measures to control the risks
of the spread of an infectious outbreak in the fitness facility.
The risk assessment shall help the operator to decide on what precautions and procedures are necessary
to apply when considering public health guidance and any requirements or restrictions of the use of the
facility
Operators of the fitness facility shall comply with any specific documentation or auditing (e.g. by public
health/environmental control officer) that is in force.
NOTE The failure to complete a full risk assessment, or the failure to put in place sufficient measures to manage
the risk of an infectious outbreak and its consequences after completing a risk assessment, can heighten the risk to
the health of users, staff and contractors of a fitness facility. Such failure might, potentially, constitute a breach of
other national health and safety law.
The risk assessment shall allow for expected additional advice and guidance to be issued by other
authorities, together with any advice or notices issued by other enforcing authorities.
4.3 Execution of risk assessment
The risk assessment shall be completed by a competent person who shall record the findings and actions,
to include:
— identification of hazards or conditions which need to change in the event of an infectious outbreak;
— covering the risks posed by the layout of the fitness facility and the directions in which users move
through the facility;
— audit of touch points before the fitness facility (re)opens after a period of closure, to reduce all
contacts to the minimum;
— assessment of how the health of the users, staff and contractors need to be further protected and
controlled to reduce potential harm during an infectious outbreak;
— assessment of what needs to be undertaken to control the increased risks.
Each operator shall make its own assessment and implement the measures that they believe are
necessary, based on:
— the layout of the premises;
— the size of the centre;
— the type of users;
— on practical considerations.
After the identification of the hazards and conditions in the fitness facility which may heighten the risk of
infection to the users, staff and contractors, the assessment shall help decide on how likely it is that harm
(infection) will occur. This is the level of risk which determines what needs to be done about reducing it.
It is unlikely to fully eliminate all risk, but everything reasonably practicable shall be done to protect the
users, staff, and contractors in the fitness facility from contracting an infection.
The results of the risk assessment relevant for staff shall be shared with all staff.
Guidance on undertaking a risk assessment is given in Annex A.
Operators shall undertake a thorough inspection of all systems and services as part of an initial check of
operational readiness following a period of shutdown or prolonged closure.
NOTE 1 In the event of an infectious outbreak, fitness facilities can be instructed by national governments or
public health officials to close at short notice and without the possibility of fully de-commissioning the services and
systems within the fitness facility.
NOTE 2 A pre-reopening check can include the ventilation systems, water systems, especially in the control of
water-borne infections such as legionella, and electrical installations before staff and users return to the facility.
4.4 Follow up on risk assessment
Regular reviews and evaluations of operational practice, whilst the infectious outbreak exists, may be
necessary.
Each fitness centre shall ensure that management measures are understood and strictly adhered to.
5 Users, staff and contractors using the fitness facility
5.1 General
Users, staff, and contractors shall feel comfortable and confident that they are safe to be in the fitness
facility, with their health and wellbeing being of paramount importance. Consideration and planning for
the delivery of safe operations in the event of an infectious outbreak shall include the guidance given in
the following paragraphs.
Hand wipes/sanitisers and cleaning towels will be on offer to all users, staff and contractors upon arrival
and exit at the fitness facility. Alternatively, users, staff and contractors shall be directed to where they
can thoroughly clean their hands.
5.2 Communication
5.2.1 Goal of communication
Clear communication to users, staff and contractors is critical to ensure that they take all reasonable
measures to comply with physical distancing and hygiene measures (e.g., wiping-down, waste disposal)
etc. before after and during their visit to the fitness facility.
5.2.2 Basic messages of communication
Advice for and guidance to users, staff and contractors shall be given to reinforce basic messages. These
basic messages can include the following:
— Stay home if they have any symptoms or if they are considered to be a ‘vulnerable’ or ‘at risk’ group
as defined by prevailing national public health guidelines;
— Follow national public health guidance to stay home if they have been in contact with persons that
were infected or were later shown to be infected;
— Wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 s, or to use alcohol/disinfectant hand sanitisers:
— when entering the building;
— at regular intervals;
— after using equipment and plant machines, etc.
— Be respectful of all other people in the facility and to keep minimal physical distance as defined by
prevailing national public health guidelines;
— Where possible, cough or sneeze into a clean tissue which is safely discarded;
— Follow guidance on cleaning machines, equipment and ancillary services before and after use, and to
consider using protective gloves on equipment;
— Respect and follow written or verbal instructions, notices and guidance on the use of the fitness
facility, including covering any temporary closures, restrictions or use of space and/or equipment;
— Respect physical distancing when talking to another user, member of staff or contractor;
— Follow current local and national guidelines on the use of face coverings and/or face masks when
using the facility;
— Conduct personal interviews, training reviews etc. virtually where possible to reduce unnecessary
close contact between staff and users.
Users, staff, and contractors shall be encouraged to bring their own pre-filled drinks.
5.3 Preventive safety measures and their implementation
5.3.1 General safety measures
It is the responsibility of the operational management of the fitness facility to prevent users, staff, or
contractors who have symptoms of the infection from entering with the intention to use it, or to be in it
for work reasons.
All users, staff, and contractors entering the facility shall adequately clean their hands by washing with
soap and water, drying them with single use tissues/cleaning towels and/or using a hand sanitiser
(70 %–85 % alcohol).
NOTE 1 Physical barriers, such as stretch/retractable belts and stanchions, queue guard screens, portable
partitions and barriers, can need to be installed together with clear markings to ensure that contact between users,
staff, and contractors is kept to a minimum. These barriers are meant to ensure that queues or bottlenecks do not
form between people as they move through or wait to use facilities.
Physical distancing is set at the minimal physical distance between people, as defined by prevailing
national public health guidelines. National guidance may vary on this requirement.
NOTE 2 Floor markings can be used to ensure the minimal physical distance as defined by prevailing national
public health guidelines.
5.3.2 People flow management
Operators shall consider people flow systems to reduce congregation in any area of the facility where
possible.
Operators shall ensure that physical distancing is maintained at all times, including transition time,
before or after classes/activities. The operator shall design internal flows to reflect this.
NOTE 1 In case the facility has more than one entry point, a one-way system can be implemented to have one
door as the entrance and another as the exit only.
NOTE 2 Ensuring any changes to entries, exit and queue management, operators could consider reasonable
adjustments for those who need these, including disabled users (e.g., maintaining pedestrian and parking access for
disabled users and ramped access).
5.3.3 In-place communication of preventive safety measures
To ensure that users are well-informed and reminded on what is required, advice on the safety measures
to be observed shall be displayed in visible locations. An example is the use of posters on display at
regular spacing throughout the fitness facility, informing users about basic requirements such as physical
distancing and cleanliness/hygiene protocols.
The issuing of guidance and requirements for use of the facility by users, staff, and contractors shall be
repeated at regular intervals during the time the infectious outbreak exists, and before the public health
emergency is ended.
Operators shall pay especial attention to anyone who may require additional assistance and support in
reading and understanding instructions
Operators shall put a response plan in place outlining details of how they will deal with a suspected case
of a user, staff, or contractor becoming infected whilst in the fitness facility
5.3.4 Use of face masks
If national guidelines require face masks, these shall be worn throughout the facility by users, but not
when exercising.
The face masks used shall be compliant with prevailing national government guidance. The operator shall
inform users on correct protocols for the wearing and removing of face masks and coverings. The
following protocol shall be recommended:
— Clean hands properly before putting on a mask;
— Practise putting it on and taking it off;
— Cover mouth and nose making sure there are no gaps between the mask and face;
— Ensure it stays in place, adjust straps, ties as necessary;
— Carry unused masks in a sealable clean waterproof bag;
— Dispose of used masks in a hygienic way;
— Do not touch a mask or face covering while wearing it, but if this happens to clean and sanitise hands
properly,
— Do not use a damp or wet medical mask or reuse a medical mask;
— Do not share masks;
— Do not lower a mask to speak;
— Do not discard masks in public places;
— Take off the face covering by:
— Removing it from behind without touching the front of the mask;
— Not touching the eyes, nose or mouth;
— Cleaning and sanitising hands properly;
— Putting disposable masks in a bin straight away.
Where ‘spotting in weights’ is being undertaken, face coverings shall be worn.
5.3.5 Accessibility
Operators shall maintain a commitment to equality, inclusiveness and legal obligations to ensure that the
decisions made in response to the infectious outbreak restrictions on operations do not discriminate
against users or staff with protected characteristics.
Instructions shall be accessible to people with special needs.
Special consideration shall be given to those who are vulnerable or less abled, particularly regarding in
their use the lifts or stairs.
The operator shall consider dedicating additional training times only for people who may be considered
at higher risk or from a vulnerable group, or with special needs as well as for those working in critical
professions.
5.4 Guidance to users
5.4.1 Declaring personal responsibility
The individual user shall take reasonable personal responsibility when taking part in physical activity.
Users shall be required to fill in a self-declaration questionnaire covering:
— Full awareness and understanding of the protocols for using the facility;
— Full understanding of the risks involved and their role in minimizing that risk;
— Full understanding and acknowledgement of the risks involved;
— Statement of not showing symptoms of the infection;
— Statement of no contact with anyone who has been diagnosed with the infection.
5.4.2 Hygienic use of fitness facility by users
Users shall keep personal items such as bags with them. These items shall not be left out in the public
areas of the fitness facility.
Users shall be reminded to:
— avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth with hands to reduce the risk of infection;
— clean and sanitise hands frequently especially following contact with respiratory secretions, and
after using the toilet;
— cover their mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing, and then to throw used tissues
immediately in a designated bin.
Personal fabric towels shall not be used for the cleaning of equipment.
The fitness facility shall provide adequate quantities of cleaning towels, which can be properly disposed
of, or washed and/or recycled.
5.5 Users in fitness training and exercise areas
5.5.1 General
Operators are advised to avoid the need for users or staff to raise their voices to each other to reduce
exhalation of aerosol particles.
Volume levels of music or broadcasts shall be moderated so that it is unnecessary to use raised voices or
shout to be heard.
Vulnerable and high-risk users shall be encouraged follow government and public health advice on the
appropriateness of them attending a fitness facility. The facility may wish to employ specific dedicated
hours for these users.
Paper-based personal exercise record/programme cards shall be avoided.
5.5.2 Physical distancing in exercise areas and use of screens
Staff and users shall maintain physical distancing whilst exercise is being undertaken.
During training triggering no significant increase of respiration, such as strength training and stretching,
staff and users shall keep a distance of at least the minimal physical distance as defined by prevailing
national public health guidelines.
For training triggering a significant increase of respiration, such as spinning or cardio training in the gym,
the distance requirement shall be increased if possible, or additional screening made of e.g. acrylic glass,
may be put into place which will have to be disinfected before and after every use.
NOTE Respiratory volume depends on the need of oxygen in the active muscle tissue and is controlled by the
partial pressure of carbon dioxide in the blood. Different types of training are based on different pathways of energy
supply. For strength training the energy is supplied on anaerobic-alactic pathways where cardiovascular training is
relying on aerobic pathways.
When used, the screening shall be so high that it covers the person when standing on the machine and
the entire width of the field where the user occupies during the session. For treadmills, this means that
the partition shall cover the entire length of the machine.
When using screens, it is important to ensure that the room meets the requirements for adequate
ventilation (see chapter 7).
There shall be no ‘hands-on’ adjustments or physical contact during group fitness classes or personal
training sessions.
The maximum capacity of users in the gym area (e.g. stationary and fixed machines, equipment, free-
weights, etc.) shall be based on the minimal number of square metres per person, as defined by prevailing
national public health guidelines. This includes both staff and fitness instructors.
5.5.3 Positioning and use of equipment
Users shall be advised to bring their own equipment where their training requires it.
Any demonstration of equipment shall ensure that the minimal physical distance as defined by prevailing
national public health guidelines is maintained and with a thorough cleaning in between sessions.
Users shall be asked to avoid using the equipment jointly or alternately.
The operator is responsible to ensure that touch points of equipment shall be cleaned before and after
use. This can be done either by the user or staff using spray and cloths provided. This is in addition to the
regular cleaning schedule of gym equipment, floors and walls.
All exercise machines/equipment (including bars, discuses, barbells, pulleys, etc.) shall be cleaned down
before and after use with appropriate cleaning agent available next to each machine, and throughout the
facility.
Loose equipment, such as dumbbells, kettlebells and free weights, shall be used by one exerciser at a time
and cleaned before and after each use.
Where possible, reduce the need to open other objects, for example cupboards, storage compartments,
trunks, and drawers by making equipment that is permitted for use readily accessible.
5.5.4 Arrangement of exercise areas
A suitable margin for adequate circulation or one-way routes shall be created around exercise equipment
to avoid congestion, or to compromise physical distancing requirements.
Operators shall consider the need to reconfigure the spaces for practicing physical exercise by
repositioning, sealing-off, or removing fitness training equipment.
Operators shall consider the below when setting out exercise areas:
— Avoid equipment facing each other, in particular at places where respiratory volume is increased.
— Avoid small tight spaces for higher-intensity and cardio training and to ensure adequate ventilation
is maintained (see chapter 7).
— Group class markings on the floor shall be placed inside the group exercise area, as well as necessary
outside the entrance to the group exercise area for ‘queue management’.
— Where group classes are allowed, the appropriate markers to designate the place of each user and
instructor shall observe national guidelines for overall physical spacing and occupancy levels.
Movement around designated spaces shall not be allowed.
— When designating space for group classes consideration shall be given to the physical movements of
them throughout the session.
— The operator shall consider giving preference to group exercise classes where users and the
instructor remain in their place as much as possible.
— Spin bikes shall be staggered and spaced at minimal physical distance as defined by prevailing
national public health guidelines apart to avoid ‘spray back’ of exhaled aerosol particles.
— Between group exercise sessions the space (studio) shall be fully ventilated for at least full air change.
This can be achieved by opening windows or doors or by mechanical air handling (see chapter 7).
All equipment and touch points shall be thoroughly cleaned and sanitised between group exercise
sessions.
Instructors of group exercise classes shall have their own protected microphones to use.
5.6 Ancillary areas
5.6.1 General
Lobbies, changing rooms and shower facilities are potentially more unsafe during pandemic outbreaks
than other parts of the fitness centre, as these spaces are often unsupervised.
The safe use of ancillary areas depends on national public health guidelines and/or the outcome of the
risk assessment (see chapter 4).
5.6.2 Use of ancillary areas
It is important that arrangements are made for at least the minimal physical distance as defined by
prevailing national public health guidelines in the changing rooms and showers, if open. Lockers can
remain in use, if physical distancing can be maintained.
The operator shall inform users that extra care shall be taken to maintain physical distancing when in
changing and shower areas.
To observe correct distancing, the operator shall consider e.g. closing-off every other closet or shower.
Toilet capacity and the possibility of hand washing shall be adequate for the number of people who may
be using the facility at any one time whilst observing the minimal physical distance as defined by
prevailing national public health guidelines. Shared amenities shall be avoided to ensure adequate
hygiene practices are in place.
Hand-held hair dryers can be used but only if hand washing/disinfection is performed before and after
use.
Soap and cleaning towels shall be available in all toilets changing rooms and washrooms.
Appropriate facilities shall be available for participants with disabilities or special needs.
5.6.3 Maintenance of ancillary areas
Toilets shall be naturally or artificially ventilated at all times.
The use of toilets shall be on the basis that the user cleans the toilet with sanitising and cleaning materials
provided by the facility.
The operator shall pay particular attention to the regular cleaning and sanitising of floors and walls in
changing rooms, washrooms and showers and the specific cleaning of touch points using biocidal
products or other approved cleaning methods, depending on the infection.
Staff shall complete increased and regular checks for cleaning and sanitising, and sign-off on a schedule
which is on display to users.
5.7 Other spaces than ancillary areas
5.7.1 Reception area
It is important to avoid the gathering of users in unventilated spaces.
Reception staff shall work in such a way that sufficient physical distance can be kept and/or behind a
protective screen.
If staff carry out financial transactions, the pin terminal shall be cleaned after each use.
It is recommended that contactless payments are used in preference to cash.
NOTE 1 To combat the infectious transmission, the hygiene of card payments can be further improved with
separately installed antibacterial shields.
Use disposable cleaning wipes to disinfect electronic equipment and especially card payment terminal.
NOTE 2 Use alcoholic cleaning solutions only if payment terminals are not damaged by them.
At least the minimal physical distance as defined by prevailing national public health guidelines shall be
kept between chairs, tables, and users in waiting areas.
Where catering, restaurant or cafés are closed, a vending or takeaway service can be provided.
NOTE 3 Vending machines can be cleaned after each use.
Any sales of food and drinks can only be operated relevant guidance issued by relevant national public
health authorities.
Mouth-to-water drinking fountains shall be turned off and shall have signage which prohibits their use.
Taps providing potable water shall only be used to refill personal bottles or containers.
5.7.2 Retail sales
Any retail sales can only be operated under relevant guidance issued by national public health authorities.
5.8 Membership and contact tracing management
All users of the fitness facility shall check-in at arrival and check-out at departure by using their correct
membership details including full name, address, and telephone contact number.
The operator shall keep a temporary record of all users for 21 days, to assist in any necessary contact
tracing. The operator shall collect sufficient data as specified above and in line with guidance issued by
national public health authorities, so that each user can potentially be contacted in case of an infection
connected to the fitness facility. This could help contain clusters or outbreaks.
The collecting and holding of personal data is fully compliant with relevant national data protection
requirements, guidance issued by national public health authorities. If applicable, see Regulation (EU)
2016/679 of the European Parliament and of the Council [GDPR] [9] for further information.
NOTE The European Data Protection Board can provide guidance on the use of personal data in the event of
national track and trace schemes operating.
Details of any personal training sessions shall be maintained to assist with any possible contact tracing.
In order to avoid overcrowding of the fitness facility, a solution is for the operator to set reserved time
blocks with the intention that every user ensures that they arrive, exercise and depart the facility within
the agreed time block of e.g. 1 or 2 h. If making use of reserved time blocks, users shall not be allowed to
enter the fitness facility earlier than the agreed starting time, and users shall leave the facility
immediately after their reservation time expires.
5.9 Managing occupancy levels and physical distancing
The number of people in fitness facility shall be limited to comply with general distancing rules and to be
compliant with national guidance requirements.
NOTE 1 National recommendations covering numbers permitted into a fitness facility may vary at any one time
during an infectious outbreak. This number will include users and staff.
Pre-booking ideally completed online to use facilities shall be introduced to help manage overall numbers
and to help avoid congestion, or the need for queuing.
Restrictions (limitations) on overall numbers may apply to the whole facility, or in part, such as for group
exercise studios only.
A system for the scheduling and pre-booking of group exercise slots shall be implemented to facilitate
pre-booking, cleaning and setting up equipment in advance of the next session beginning, to avoid
queuing by users.
NOTE 2 The operator can schedule training groups in a way to avoid gatherings in waiting areas.
When managing occupancy levels, it especially impo
...
Questions, Comments and Discussion
Ask us and Technical Secretary will try to provide an answer. You can facilitate discussion about the standard in here.
Loading comments...