Arkansas Lays Out Guidelines For Athletic Events

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Governor Asa Hutchinson and the Arkansas Department of Health have issued the guidelines to allow sporting events this fall in the state.

Here is the Press Release from the Department of Health:

TO: Public and Private K-12 School Superintendents/Athletic Directors
FROM: J. Terry Paul, R.S., Environmental Health Branch Chief—Arkansas Department of Health

RE: Large Outdoor Venue and Large Indoor Venue Plans for School Sponsored Team Sports
Private and public school athletic events will not be required to submit COVID 19 compliance plans to the Arkansas Department of Health provided the following requirements are met:

• Venue capacity should be determined by having all spectators maintain 6-feet physical distance from other spectators at all times. Single-household family groups may sit together but 6-feet physical distance must be maintained from all other groups or individuals.

o Bleacher seating should be restricted such that every other row is unoccupied.

o Standing room only/ additional chair seating should be marked on the ground to provide 6-feet
physical distance between spectators or groups.

o NOTE: Though the Large Outdoor and Indoor Venue directives allow up to 66%, the above
requirements for physical distancing may put actual capacity between 25-50%.

• Face coverings are required for all persons present, except for children under the age of 10 years old.

o Due to increased production of respiratory droplets during yelling and cheering, face coverings
should remain in place even when attendees are seated and maintaining required physical
distancing. NOTE: Face coverings may be removed in order to consume food or beverage but
should be in place immediately afterwards.

• Areas where lines may form (entrances, exits, concessions, restrooms, etc.) shall be marked with cones, “X’s”, or other visual cues to promote physical distance of 6-feet. These lines should also be monitored to ensure physical distancing is maintained.

• Concessions shall comply with the current Directive Regarding Resuming Restaurant Dine-In Operations

o Customer self-service condiment bars and buffets are prohibited

o Consider reducing/adjusting menu offerings to promote expedient flow through concessions and
reduce congestion in concession stand lines.

• Signs must be posted at all entrances advising the public not to enter if

o They have fever, cough, shortness of breath, sore throat, or loss of taste or smell.

o They have had known exposure to someone with Covid-19 in the past 14 days.

• Signs must be posted at all entrances advising the public that they may wish to refrain from entering if

o They are 65 years of age or older.

o They have underlying health conditions including high blood pressure, chronic lung disease,
diabetes, severe obesity, asthma, or weakened immunity.

• The facility, including restrooms, shall be cleaned and disinfected as needed during the event. Frequently
touched surfaces shall be cleaned periodically during the course of the event. Products with an EPAapproved emerging viral pathogen claims are expected to be effective against COVID-19. Follow the
manufacturer’s instructions for these products.

• The use of live-streaming or radio/television broadcasting should be used and promoted when possible.

The Arkansas Department of Health and The Arkansas Department of Education may visit any of these events to ensure compliance.

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