Revised health guidelines issued until 15 December

Wednesday, 1 December 2021 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Revisions have been made to health guidelines, expanding the capacity limit for several activities including weddings, dining in at restaurants, and cinemas.

The guidelines will be revised further on 15 December, the circular signed by Health Services Director General Dr. Asela Gunawardena states, adding that persons must avoid unnecessary travel to minimise risk of COVID-19 transmission.

While it is strongly encouraged that official, corporate, and professional meetings and events are held virtually, one-third capacity of the venue, not exceeding 150 persons, is permitted.

Exhibitions and conventions are permitted with strict adherence to health guidelines. A capacity limit of 150 persons at a given time applies.

Indoor private gatherings must be held at one-third capacity of the venue, not exceeding 100 persons, but the 10-person capacity limit will continue to apply to gatherings at a private house. Outdoor private gatherings are not permitted.

Economic centres are open for wholesale trade under strict supervision of local authorities and the area MOH. Weekend markets, open markets, and mobile vendors can operate under strict supervision of local authorities and the area MOH as well.

Industries are permitted to operate according to guidelines given. Financial institutions can only permit up to 15 persons at a given time.

The dining-in capacity for restaurants is one-third of the venue, not exceeding 100 persons indoors and 150 persons outdoors.

A one-third capacity limit applies to shops, groceries, pharmacies and supermarkets.

Barbers, salons and tailors can only operate on an appointment basis.

Schools can reopen as decided by the Education Ministry and the University Grants Commission will decide on the reopening of higher education institutions. Day-care centres and preschools are permitted to open. A 50% capacity limit applies to vocational training centres.

Physical attendance at exams is permitted with strict adherence to health guidelines. A 50% capacity applies to O/L and A/L tuition classes.

Courts can function under the guidance of the Judicial Services Commission.

Cinemas and theatres can operate with a 75% capacity limit.

Gyms are permitted to operate and sports activities can be held without spectators.

Open spaces are encouraged for weddings and the capacity limit for indoor weddings is one-third of the venue, not exceeding 200 persons. A maximum of 250 persons are allowed at outdoor weddings. Liquor cannot be served, however.

A maximum of 20 persons are allowed at a funeral at any given time.

Individual worshiping is permitted at religious places.