HANDY GUIDE TO ‘ESSENTIAL’ OUTLETS

THE National Public Health Emergency Team has recommended that all nonessential retail outlets should close to members of the public. Here is a list of what are considered essential outlets:

Retail and wholesale sale of food, beverages and newspapers in non-specialised and specialised stores

Retail sale of household consumer products necessary to maintain the safety and sanitation of residences and businesses Pharmacies/chemists and retailers providing pharmaceuticals and pharmaceutical or dispensing services Opticians/optometrists

Medical and orthopaedic goods in specialised stores

Fuel stations and heating fuel providers

Vehicle, motorcycles, bicycle repair

Retail sale of essential items for the health and welfare of animals, including animal feed and medicines, pet food and supplies including bedding

Laundries and dry cleaners Banks, post offices and credit unions

Retail sale of safety supply (eg, work clothes, personal protective equipment)

Hardware stores, builders’ merchants and stores that provide hardware products necessary for home and business maintenance, sanitation and farm equipment, supplies and tools essential for gardening/ farming/agriculture

Office supplies (for home offices) ÷Electrical, IT and phone sales, repair and maintenance services for homes

Social distancing measures within these essential outlets:

Ensure adequate distancing between customers and retail assistants in line with public health guidelines ÷Only let people into store in small groups and ensure spaces are not crowded

Manage queues inside and outside the door

Consider designating certain times of the day to facilitate vulnerable groups

Provide online services where possible and appropriate