Guidance for the safe return of golf in Scotland during Phase 2 of the route map through the COVID-19 crisis
Guidance for the safe return of golf in Scotland
The Scottish Government has announced that phase two of the route map through the COVID-19 crisis would be implemented in some areas from Friday 19th June.
On the 18th June the Scottish Government announced that phase two of the route map through the COVID-19 crisis would be implemented in some areas from Friday 19th June. The PGA welcomes this news and as a result would like to make Members aware of the important changes to previously issued guidance.
The Scottish Government route map is available for your reference by CLICKING HERE.
The PGA and other industry partners have contributed to the document – 'Guidance for golf clubs and golfers in Scotland’ issued by Scottish Golf and this document now reflects the updated guidance pertaining to phase two.
The PGA has been seeking advice from Scottish Government in relation to the interpretation of the guidance specifically regarding PGA Professional services including coaching, club fitting, retailing and driving ranges. Based on this work, The PGA has developed the following advice in relation to Phase 2 of the route map and will provide further information as we progress through the phases:
Coaching and Club Fitting – Phase 2 Update
CLICK HERE for Government guidelines in regard to coaching / club fitting
The relevant excerpt is:
Personal training/coaching
One on one personal training or coaching is permitted if it is outdoors, physical distancing can be maintained, and is with members of your household and/or members of up to TWO other households.
A coach or personal trainer should not deliver training to more than two households at any one time or provide training to more than two households per day.
When participating in training or coaching, where possible, avoid touching surfaces and sharing equipment and touching your mouth and face.
If you are considering coaching or club fitting under these restrictions it should be delivered outside and within the specified guidance in relation to social distancing and infection control. PGA Professionals considering any coaching/club fitting should complete a comprehensive risk assessment and refer to the coaching/club fitting guidelines on the PGA Covid-19-resource hub to ensure maximum compliance.
Retail and Pro Shops – Phase 2 update
In reference to phase two of the route map, previously closed small retail outlets can open from the 29th June subject to adhering to the physical distancing, infection control and employee safeguarding measures.
Driving Ranges – Phase 2 Update
No change to existing arrangements.
Risk assessments would need to be completed to ensure all areas are safe i.e. surfaces cleaned between use, ball vending machines restricted, sanitisation measures active. Facilities should also check with their own insurers that they are covered to restart operations.
Professional Sport
We are currently assessing the practicalities of resuming a reduced calendar of tournament golf for the remainder of 2020 and this will be communicated as we work through the schedule and how it is impacted by the next phases of the Route Map.
Communication:
Ensure that you tell your customers about the measures that you are taking to provide a safer environment. This will generate confidence not just in the present but also benefit the future when guidance changes.
Scottish Government guidelines may change into the future, however regardless of whether you are able to continue delivering a service to your golfing cohort it is essential that you maintain communication. Regular communication with your customers, who may themselves be experiencing extremes of isolation will assist in developing a community spirit that will serve you and the golf club well in the months to follow.
Further Clarification for PGA members in Scotland
All activity should be consistent with Scottish Government guidance regarding health, travel, social distancing and hygiene at all times.
CLICK HERE for further advice for golf clubs and golfers in Scotland.
IMPORTANT: Do not leave your home to play golf if Scottish Government advice means you should stay at home because you or someone you live with has or has had symptoms of COVID-19, or you are in the most vulnerable category and have been advised to shield from the coronavirus.
Guidance has been constructed in line with Health Protection Scotland
