The IHRSA Active & Safe Commitment
Operational Checklist for Clubs
I commit my health club to operating industry best practices and verify that the club has taken the following COVID-19 mitigation steps, while recognizing that some specific aspects may change as new research and science emerges, we will adapt accordingly.
1. Physical distancing/mitigation measures
Facilitating and supporting appropriate physical distancing. The club employs measures including but not limited to signage, floor markings, physical distancing of at least 2 metres/6 feet (or a distance as stipulated by local guidelines) and is enforced. Longer distances will be considered for certain situations, including group exercise, during periods of high community spread, or high intensity exercise.
Occupancy management systems/policies. The health club is aware of and following all capacity limitations/restrictions in accordance with the key considerations guidelines and has systems and policies in place to enforce these limitations. Occupancy is reduced in key areas including locker rooms, group exercise studios, and other typically high-use areas.
Plans in place to reduce cross contamination. The club has measures in place to prohibit the sharing of equipment, water bottles, towels, etc. in all areas of the club. These plans are always available to members.
Mask policy in place and enforced. At a minimum, all local mask ordinances/guidelines are enforced in the facility. Members are required to wear a mask or cloth face covering upon entering and exiting the club, and while moving between areas within the club, and anytime physical distancing can’t be maintained. Members may or may not be allowed to remove the mask during exercise. Staff are always required to wear a mask or face covering in the facility.
2. Employee/Member Safety Protocols
Comprehensive staff training. Employees of the club are informed about the latest available evidence and guidance regarding the COVID-19 outbreak, including transmission risk, current community spread, risk mitigation protocols, personal hygiene training and best practices. Management and staff are committed to following local, regional, and national guidelines.
Employee and Member Health Monitoring. The club has implemented daily health screening protocols for both employees and members. Screening options could include self-screen prior arriving to the facility, and/or temperatures and symptoms screening prior to entering the facility.
Regular member communication. All policies and protocols are clearly communicated with members across a variety of mediums so they understand and actively participate in appropriate COVID-19 mitigation measures.
Contingency planning. The club has safety and communication plans in place for situations including a member displaying symptoms while at the club or a member who has tested positive for COVID-19 and potentially exposed other members.
Employee feedback mechanism. The club provides a safe and appropriate mechanism to highlight any suggestions or issues, such as a suggestion box or email.
3. Cleaning, sanitizing, and disinfecting
Extensive hygiene and sanitizing protocols. Personal cleaning products including hand sanitizer and alcohol-based rubs/gels, soap canisters, and closed bins for safe disposal of hygienic materials (e.g., tissues, paper towels, sanitary products) are readily available to members and staff.
The club has a cleaning schedule to ensure the facility is clean and hygienic–wiping surfaces and any equipment regularly with disinfectant, ensure cleaning procedures include disinfection of door handles, toilet handles, bathroom faucet handles, gym, sports equipment, all touch points, etc., in all areas several times per day.
Enhanced measures to optimize ventilation and filtration. The club has ensured that HVAC systems meet all local requirements and standards, and the club has taken additional measures to maintain safe humidity levels (40-60%), regular air exchange, ventilation, and purification. Monitoring records to show evidence of implementation of these measures.
4. Contact tracing
Utilize member management software to aid contact tracing efforts. The club has the capacity and willingness to use member management software to aid health authorities in contact tracing, and has a plan in place to notify any affected members and staff in the event of an exposure.
Contract tracing oversight and protocols are established. The club has a minimum of one designated COVID-19 response coordinator/manager to oversee all contact tracing protocols and procedures, and has a plan in place to notify any affected members and staff in the event of an exposure.