Keep in mind these safety guidelines to avoid the spread of Covid-19.
It might have felt like an eternity but can you believe we’ve made it to July and now we’re in the midst of Phase 2? As the government eases the circuit breaker measures, it’s vital that we stay on guard and follow all safety measures and protocol. In case you need a breather, the virus can transfer via close contact with an infected person when they cough or sneeze. The infected water droplets can also spread when you touch your mouth, nose or eyes after touching infected surfaces or objects.
Yes, most establishments have enforced the SafeEntry check in system, strict safety measures and SG Clean certifications, but remember that we can all do our part to avoid the risk of transmission. To help you, we’ve compiled a list of safety guidelines to note. The key is to practise safe distancing, avoid crowded areas and minimise time spent outside.
Safety guidelines for Covid-19
We don’t want to sound like a broken recorder but…
WASH. YOUR. HANDS. Get rid of potential germs by scrubbing your hands clean every time you touch common areas like lift buttons, escalators, railings, and whatnot. Use a hand sanitiser if you can’t find a washroom.
Wear a mask when you’re heading out. ‘Nuff said. FYI, another round of free masks will be given out to the public until 12 July.
Do not leave home if you’re feeling unwell. Opt for delivery, virtual gatherings or a little stay home pampering sesh instead.
If you’re going to work
If telecommuting is not on the cards, staggered working hours and split team arrangements should be enforced. Physical meetings should be kept to a minimum. And avoid socialising during and after work hours. You know the drill – wear a mask whenever possible, even indoors, and keep a one metre distance.
If you’re dining out
Itching to get your social life on track? Just make sure to keep social gatherings to five people and below. Most restaurants have gone above and beyond to heighten safety measures. However, it’s your job to stay safe. Make a reservation to avoid queuing. Use the SafeEntry check in system whenever necessary. Do not mingle with other groups and maintain a distance of one metre. Say no to sharing food and cutlery. Use sharing spoons instead – or bring your own reusable ones! Refrain from touching physical menus and only remove your mask when you’re eating or drinking. That means it stays on while waiting for your dish to arrive or chatting with friends after you’ve finished your meal.
If you’re using public transport
Masks are mandatory on buses, trains, taxis and private hire cars. Steer clear of touching handrails or grab poles as much as you can. Wash and sanitise your hands after if you need to hold on to them.
If you’re going to an enclosed space or crowded location
This includes malls, grocery stores, indoor and outdoor attractions, museums, libraries and integrated resorts. Most places have reduced the capacity of patrons and implemented timed entry to make sure you follow the rules. There are a number of useful links to track crowds, so plan your day around them.
Keep your phones or ICs ready to check in via the SafeEntry system. We’ve noticed snaking lines outside some retail outlets and restaurants. Skip the queues (it’s not worth it) and find an alternative. Stay away from fitting rooms, testing or sampling products (this is prohibited anyway) and use contactless payment.
If you’re going to the gym or fitness studio
Many gyms and fitness facilities have amped up safety measures with SafeEntry check in, temperature taking, limited capacity, and time allocation per session. Other precautions include installing shields between machines or cordoning off some to maintain the one metre distance rule and providing disinfectant sprays (which you can use to clean the equipment before and after your workout). This is totally up to you, but you could also wear disposable gloves and a face shield on top of your mask for extra protection.
If you’re going anywhere else
We know how much you miss your spa days, facials, mani-pedis and hair treatments. We hear that many have already enforced the usual safety measures such as disinfecting all surfaces and equipment after each session and implementing online booking with limited slots. Nonetheless, make sure you’re in a private room and only remove your mask during the treatment.
Never take anything for granted. These measures and safety guidelines are there for a reason so there’s no point flouting them. Stay safe, errbody. We’ve come so far during these unprecedented and – quite honestly – WTF moments. We can get through this together!
