eThekwini Municipality issues safety guide for Covid-19 this festive season
While the majority of establishments have implemented strict health and safety measures, holiday makers have been urged to play their part.
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THE eThekwini Municipality has released safety guidelines for the upcoming festive season to ensure Covid-19 protocols are observed.
In a statement, eThekwini Mayor, Councillor Mxolisi Kaunda said local and domestic citizens have the power to reignite the tourism sector but must do so safely and responsibly.
“Despite restrictions on major events, Durbanites and other visitors can take in an array of safe, authentic, affordable and Covid-19 compliant tourism options, including many hidden gems in and around our award-winning city,” said Kaunda. While the majority of establishments have implemented strict health and safety measures, holiday makers have been urged to play their part.
Also read: BREAKING: Beaches in KZN remain open despite spike in Covid-19 infections
“It is the responsibility of individual operators and patrons to play their part in complying with Covid-19 safety protocols. EThekwini Municipality has, however, partnered with other authorities and law enforcement bodies to provide support in upholding compliance. This will help to ensure that we can keep this important sector open, while enabling residents and visitors to continue to enjoy happy and healthy city experiences,” said Kaunda.
Health and safety measures have been aligned with guidelines from the Department of Health, the National Institute for Communicable Disease (NICD), the Tourism Business Council of South Africa (TBCSA), World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) and World Health Organization (WHO), as well as health and safety regulations.
Also read: KZN Premier warns against holding super-spreader events
These include stringent cleaning, reconfiguring facilities to comply with social distancing requirements, temperature checks, complimentary hand washing and sanitising at strategic high-touch points. Also available are contactless payment methods, helpful signage and health screening procedures for patrons, employees, suppliers and more. Durban Tourism has the following safety tips for holiday makers:
1. Stay Covid-19 compliant.
2. Enquire about an establishment’s Covid-19 protocols ahead of time.
3. Respect your establishment’s guidelines.
4. Support local tourism and hospitality enterprises wherever possible.
5. Most importantly, assess what you are comfortable with, while taking care not to endanger others.
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