EPSB Guidance Update on Face Coverings

The English Partnership for Snooker and Billiards has today provided updated guidance on the wearing of face coverings at snooker facilities.

This follows the decision of the UK government to move to ‘Plan B’ in response to the risks of the Omicron variant of COVID-19 and subsequent changes to the published guidance updated 10 December 2021.

In addition, during a Statement on Covid-19 on the House of Lords on 8 December 2021, Health Minister Lord Kamall stated:

“From Friday, the settings requiring face coverings will be attractions and recreation venues—concert halls, exhibition halls et cetera—cinemas, theatres, museums and galleries. I have a longer list and I am happy to share that as appropriate with noble Lords. Other settings include bingo halls and casinos, snooker and pool halls, skating rinks, circuses, other business ventures such as public areas in hotels and hostels, play and soft play areas, sports stadia, other indoor public venues, places of worship, crematoria, chapels, community centres, public libraries and polling stations.”

As has been the case throughout the coronavirus pandemic and during previous restrictions, it is for each facility to review the guidance and make their own judgement based on the layout of their venue and advice from their local authority.

In view of the latest government position, however, the EPSB has updated its guidance to snooker clubs as follows:

“Players must wear face coverings upon entry to the premises. Once at a designated snooker table or hospitality area this face covering may be removed, at the players’ discretion, to eat, drink or participate in snooker or billiards. Face coverings must be put on again whenever leaving the designated area. Exemptions apply.”

The EPSB will continue to monitor the position and provide further guidance as and when required.

Additional government guidance on coronavirus (COVID-19) measures for grassroots sport participants, providers and facility operators is also available online.