Washington — Two new fact sheets from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are intended to help fitness center employers and workers reduce the spread of the COVID-19.
Fitness center employers and workers may be exposed by being within 6 feet of infected patrons, co-workers or service personnel, and by touching their own mouth, nose, face or eyes after making contact with frequently touched surfaces or equipment.
CDC encourages employers to consider developing a COVID-19 workplace safety and health plan that includes establishing an onsite workplace coordinator responsible for COVID-19 assessments, implementing flexible sick leave policies, and conducting daily in-person or virtual health checks.
Other recommendations for employers:
- Immediately separate employees who report or develop COVID-19 symptoms at work. Thoroughly clean and disinfect workplaces if anyone has a suspected or confirmed case of COVID-19.
- Modify or adjust cardio and weight equipment to maintain physical distancing of at least 6 feet between patrons and workers. Establish physical barriers such as cleanable, transparent shields when distancing isn’t possible.
- Place handwashing stations or hand sanitizers in multiple locations.
- Ensure the gym is well-ventilated.
- Provide worker training.
- Encourage the use of cloth facial coverings or masks as appropriate.
CDC advises workers to:
- Stay home if you’re experiencing symptoms of COVID-19.
- Remain at least 6 feet away from patrons, co-workers and service personnel when possible.
- Wear a cloth facial covering or mask in public or at work when physical distancing is difficult to maintain.
- Frequently wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
- Avoid touching your face, mouth, nose or eyes.
- Cover coughs and sneezes.
