Updated reopening plan includes rules for malls, clothing stores

SASKATOON The provincial government has revised its plan to reopen the Saskatchewan economy after many stores and services were forced to close in March to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

TRY THIS ON FOR SIZE

Probably the biggest change in the province’s revised plan to allow some retail businesses to reopen starting May 19 relates to clothing stores.

Under the original plan released on April 23, changing rooms were required to remain closed and no exchanges or returns were allowed. Under the revised plan released Friday, the use of change rooms and returns are discouraged, but allowed.

Change rooms can operate at half capacity to allow for social distancing, but must be cleaned and disinfected after each use.

Returned items must also be cleaned and disinfected and removed from shelves for three days. People trying on watches or handling items they want to purchase must wash their hands with soap and water or an approved sanitizer first. Customers are discouraged from touching merchandise.

MALLS MAKE RETURN

The original plan specified 16 types of businesses and services that will be allowed to reopen on May 19 as part of the second phase of the plan, ranging from toy stores to acupuncturists.

What about the malls that house many of these businesses? Malls are specifically allowed to open in two weeks under the revised plan, but must ensure two metres of separation between people waiting in lines, on escalators and in elevators. Washrooms can be open to the public, but cleaning and disinfecting must be ramped up.

Outlets in food courts will be allowed to stay open for pickup and delivery, but the seating areas in food courts must stay closed.

HITTING THE BULL’S-EYE

The original plan included more than a page of information on golf courses, which are allowed to reopen on May 15 as part of the first phase.

The revised plan includes a section on outdoor recreation that specifies that archery and gun ranges will also be allowed to reopen on May 15. The regulations for these types of facilities are similar for those at golf courses, with clubhouses and locker-rooms to stay closed.

As per the ongoing restrictions on gatherings, no more than 10 people are allowed at one time and must stay two metres apart. Cleaning of facilities, including washrooms, must be increased and rented equipment must be cleaned and disinfected after each use.

At golf courses, club rentals will be allowed, provided they are cleaned and disinfected. Pro shops can open May 19.

DRIVE-IN WORSHIP

The revised reopening plan includes a section on worship services that specifies the conditions for drive-in ceremonies.

Under these rules, drive-in worship must take place in designated lots. Event organizers must ensure that people do not leave their vehicles and that vehicles are parked two metres apart. Washrooms are discouraged, but allowed, provided they are cleaned and disinfected and social distancing is maintained. Those organizing such events must run their proposals past local Saskatchewan Health Authority officials.