According to the latest roadmap from the government, indoor entertainment venues could be allowed to open as early as 17^th May. While social distancing rule will remain in place on this date, it’s looking promising for venues including cinemas and theatres, as well as museums, hotels, and sporting venues.

With two months to go until this earliest possible date for reopening these venues, what measures will need to be introduced to take us through to the country fully reopening and beyond?

What are the rules?

At the moment, most restrictions in place for indoor events could be lifted by 21^st June. But the prime minister has suggested that some events may be allowed to go ahead from 17^th May as long as capacities are restricted to up to 1,000 people or 50% capacity. These are the current restrictions for England.

This is significant news for those working in the hospitality and events industries. Since the announcement of these plans on 22^nd February, venues have reported a 294% increase in event enquiries and preparations are already underway ahead of the easing of the restrictions.

The measures being introduced

The government has set out conditions for event organisers to meet in order to open for select events from 17^th May.

This means that venues must comply with COVID-secure guidance, including ‘taking reasonable steps to limit the risk of transmission, complete a related risk assessment; and ensure that those attending do not mix beyond what is permitted by the social contact limits (unless another exemption exists, such as for organised sport or exercise, supervised activities for children or a significant life event).’

There are risks associated with hosting events indoors again, so following the guidance set out by the government will be key. For instance, if a venue has the capacity to host 1,000 people but it’s impossible to include distancing measures, the total capacity for events will need to be reduced in order to avoid close contact among attendees.

Similarly, ventilation will need to become a priority. How best to keep air circulating safely is something that event organisers will need to consider.

Sticking to the rules

Social distancing measures are set to be in place until 21^st June. Therefore, both attendees and staff at any indoor events from the date in May will need to continue to wear masks, maintain good hygiene, and distance from others not in their household. The use of custom floor graphics could be beneficial in nudging the attendees towards maintaining social distancing protocols with the relevant signage. Risk assessments will also need to be carried out before events can go ahead.

To keep to the rules, organisers may wish to provide masks for those who don’t have any upon entering the building, along with hand sanitiser. Likewise, cleaning facilities such as toilets and communal areas will need to be more rigorous. Everything from floors to seating will require a clean with anti-bacterial solutions, and even toilet roll dispensers will need to be more hygienic than ever before.

Rapid testing a possibility

A negative test could also go a long way towards helping the events industry to reopen. Rapid testing might be an option that allows venues to welcome visitors once more. The logistics of this may require some ironing out, but it may also become a normal part of attending events for the foreseeable.