In recent weeks as we enter the later stages of the season and the temperatures drop there has been a number of queries about what guidance has been issued by government regarding changing and shower facilities . . .

Guidance for the public on the phased return of outdoor sport and recreation in England

The 1 October 2020 guidance for the public on the phased return of outdoor sport and recreation in England included the following guidance on Changing rooms:

“Changing rooms are an area of increased risk of transmission. It is important that social distancing is maintained in changing rooms and showers and that they are only used if essential. All venues should encourage attendees to arrive at the facility in sports kit and where possible to travel home to change/shower. Use of changing rooms and showering facilities should in general be avoided where possible, although these must be available for participants with disabilities or special needs and are likely to be needed after swimming. If changing rooms are to be used, users should use the facilities as quickly as possible.
For more information see the Providers of grassroots sport and gym/leisure facilities guidance.”

Providers of grassroots sport and gym/leisure facilities

“6.4. Changing rooms and showers

Objective: To minimise the risk of transmission in changing rooms and showers.

Changing rooms are an area of increased risk of transmission. It is important that social distancing is maintained in changing rooms and showers and that they are only use if essential. All venues should encourage attendees to arrive at the facility in sports kit and where possible to travel home to change/shower. Use of changing rooms and showering facilities should in general be avoided where possible, although these must be available for participants with disabilities or special needs and are likely to be needed after swimming. If changing rooms are to be used, users should use the facilities as quickly as possible.

Steps that will usually be needed:
1. Taking steps to ensure that all water systems, for example showers and sinks, are safe to use after a prolonged facility shutdown to minimise the risk of legionella and other diseases associated with water.
2. Where shower and changing facilities are required, setting clear use and cleaning guidance for showers, lockers and changing rooms to ensure they are kept clean and clear of personal items and that social distancing is achieved as much as possible. Consider closing communal showers if possible.
3. Introducing enhanced cleaning of all facilities regularly during the day and at the end of the day.
4. Encouraging participants and staff to change and shower at home rather than in changing rooms where possible (though changing rooms are likely to still be needed after swimming).
5. In establishments where guests use shared showers, consider cleaning more frequently.
6. For additional reassurance, providing cleaning materials and hand sanitiser for customer use at touch points.
7. Providing additional signposting in these areas to maintain social distancing.
8. Considering changes in policies to ensure limited time is taken in changing areas, especially during the changeover of group activity to maintain social distancing.
9. Maintaining use of lockers use where social distancing can be maintained.”

The guidance is clear that “all venues should encourage attendees to arrive at the facility in sports kit and where possible to travel home to change/shower. Use of changing rooms and showering facilities should in general be avoided where possible”

Conclusion:
The government guidance on safely opening changing and shower facilities represents a high bar and highlights the risk of transmission associated with them. Every club / operator should ensure that they consider very carefully how they address the government guidance.

Clubs and operators should consider their response to the guidance on a site-specific basis. If the decision is taken to make changing rooms and showers available clubs/operators need to ensure that operational protocols are put in place that comply with this guidance.

Links to the government guidance:
Guidance for the public on the phased return of outdoor sport and recreation in England

Guidance on changing rooms and showers

Conclusion (England only and subject to any relevant local restrictions)