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Gymnastics NSW - Return to Gymnastics

Physical Distancing Plan

Physical distancing (also known as social distancing) is one of the most effective methods of reducing the spread of viruses. 

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The more space between you and others the harder it is for the virus to spread.

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If a person is found to be positive for COVID-19, the risk of transmission to the rest of the workforce is minimised if the workplace has been practicing social distancing.

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 Good practice physical distancing principles are to:

 

  • maintain 1.5 metre separation between people who are not from the same household; and 

 

  • maintain a minimum of 4sqm per person. 

 

  • discourage onlookers/audience unless required.

 

As at 23 January 2022, clubs can begin operations under the following protocols:​

  • Masks are recommended if social distancing can not occur

  • A NSW Government COVID Safety Plan is in place and upheld that addresses the above. 

 

Parents viewing training sessions

  • where it can be safely accommodated, in line with the above physical distancing and venue capacity requirements, clubs should provide a viewing area for spectator. 

 

How to measure your space

 

The maximum occupancy can be calculated by following these steps: 

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  1. Measure the area accessible to the public or members.
     

  2. To find the square meterage for a rectangular area, multiply the length times the width. If there are adjoining areas or alcoves, measure them and calculate the square meterage. 
     

  3. Add the results of each measurement together to find the total area in square metres.
     

  4. Staff only areas, toilets and areas occupied by fixed furniture such as counters and bars must not be included in this calculation. 
     

  5. Divide the total square metre area by 4 to give the maximum permissible number of patrons. 

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How to limit people in the general gymnastics area

 

Gymnastics clubs should limit the number of people within the general gym area by:

 

Registration

 

  • Ensuring pre-registration for classes.
     

  • Promoting the increased use of online registration rather than face to face administration. 

 

Physical layout

 

  • Providing training and direct staff and members to keep 1.5 metres of distance between people.
     

  • Restricting the number of people allowed in specified areas.
     

  • Put signs around the gym floor on walls and the floor to promote physical distancing measures and 1.5m distance. 
     

  • Removing access to some areas through a physical barrier and signage. 
     

  • Reviewing the equipment layout to facilitate physical distancing requirements.
     

  • Marking equipment not permitted for use.
     

  • Establishing specific pathways, preferably in one direction, between equipment through the use of wall and floor markings.
     

  • Place markings on the floor at each piece of equipment to indicate where participants should sit/stand while waiting for their turn.
     

  • Ensuring a clear path for entry and exit in an emergency without risks.
     

  • Ensure adequate ventilation if held indoors

 

Classes
 

  • Coordinating classes to ensure sufficient changeover times, with no mixing between classes. 
     

  • Limiting exposure to a group on a piece of equipment prior to cleaning.
     

  • Asking members to leave the premises once they have completed their class - "get in, train, get out." 
     

  • Tailor sessions to ensure the minimal need for spotting athletes.
     

Additional employee considerations
 

  • Postpone or cancel non-essential gatherings and meetings.
     

  • Reduce the number of employees using common areas. This may require staggered break times. 
     

  • Provide training and support to ensure staff are familiar with the requirements. For employees where English is not their first language this may require translation assistance.
     

  • Non-essential visits to the workplace should be cancelled or postponed. 

 

Deliveries

  • Delegate an employee the responsibility of collecting deliveries and provide them with training on COVID 19 safe practices. 
     

  • Delivery drivers and other contractors who need to attend the workplace, to provide maintenance or repair services or perform other essential activities, must check in with the Service NSW app and should be given clear instructions of physical distancing requirements while on site.
     

  • Ensure handwashing facilities, or if not possible, alcohol-based hand sanitiser is readily available for staff after physically handling deliveries.
     

  • Direct visiting delivery drivers and contractors to remain in vehicles and use contactless methods such as mobile phones to communicate with staff wherever possible.
     

  • Direct visiting delivery drivers and contractors to use alcohol-based hand sanitiser before handling products being delivered.
     

  • Use, and ask delivery drivers and contractors to use, electronic paperwork where possible, to minimise physical interaction. If a pen or other utensil is required for signature, ideally use your own pen or ask that the pen or utensil is cleaned or sanitised before use.

 

Ongoing review and monitoring

 

If physical distancing measures introduce new health and safety risks these risks also need to be managed. Put processes in place to regularly monitor and review the implementation of physical distancing measures to ensure they are being followed and remain effective.

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