EPSB COVID-19 Guidance Update (July 2021)

The government has confirmed that England will move to Step 4 of the roadmap on Monday 19 July, so we wanted to update you on what this means for Covid-19 protocols in snooker clubs.

While cases are high and rising, everybody needs to continue to act carefully and remain cautious.  As such, the government is keeping in place some key protections around testing and isolating, while recommending that people minimise the number, proximity and duration of social contacts, and wear face coverings in crowded areas.

Lifting restrictions

The key changes from the 19 July are as follows:

• No requirement to stay 2 metres apart from people you do not live with
• No limits on group numbers
• All capacity limits at sporting, entertainment, or business events lifted
• Face coverings no longer required by law but advised in crowded public spaces

What remains in place

• Clubs should continue to keep track of who is attending their venue while self-isolation requirements remain in place
• Anyone developing Covid-19 symptoms should self-isolate immediately and get a PCR test.
• The NHS QR code and hand-sanitisation remain recommended as good practice.

Snooker Clubs

The government has issued guidance to businesses and venues on managing risks.

In addition, the EPSB recommends that clubs consider continuing the following good practices, particularly while case rates remain high…

• Regular cleaning – especially shared surfaces, ‘touch points’ and equipment
• Sanitising stations available
• Table service where particular members request it
• Booking system to manage numbers
• Good signage to remind members to allow space for others, especially around entrances/exits, snooker tables, bar areas and toilets
• Crowd management planning for any indoor functions or competitions

We will continue to work on recommendations to support clubs and venues to operate safely in line with any further guidance released by the government in the coming weeks.