UK nightclubs propose reopening with ID scans and bouncer patrols
Compulsory face mask wearing and temperature checks are also in the industry's proposal
UK nightclubs have put forward a series of proposals that they hope will allow them to reopen, including compulsory wearing of face masks, bouncers patrolling dancefloors to ensure social distancing is in place, and temperature checks at the door.
ID scans for clubbers to aid test and trace systems have also been proposed.
The plans have been written for the nightclub, late-night bars and music venues industry by the Institute of Occupational Medicine. They aim to reduce the risk of coronavirus infections spreading in nightclubs to the “lowest practicable level”.
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Some venues in the industry have noted they are larger than pubs and restaurants that have been allowed to reopen, and also often have ventilation systems that recycle air more frequently. More rigorous and frequent cleaning of venues has also been pledged.
The Night Time Industries Association (NTIA) has warned of “financial armageddon” and 754,000 jobs being at risk if nightclubs are not given government support or a clearer idea of when they can reopen.
The report, which was coordinated by the NTIA, claims that legally monitored nightclub reopenings would be safer than illegal events that have been taking place without proper safety measures in place.
It states: “Bearing in mind the behaviour we are witnessing in unregulated environments such as beaches, parks and raves, there is a strong argument to permit clubs to reopen, albeit under strict controls flowing from government guidance and individual risk assessments informed by other sectors.”
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Peter Marks, the chief executive of Deltic Group, the UK’s largest operator of late-night bars and clubs, said: “The late-night leisure sector, a sector which employs tens of thousands across the UK, is at risk of collapse if the government does not act now – it is that simple.
“We need a clear reopening plan, or at the very least fit-for-purpose financial assistance.”
[Via: Guardian]
Patrick Hinton is Mixmag's Digital Features Editor, follow him on Twitter
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