Shopping malls step up in fight against COVID-19
Sensible preventative measures are being put in place.
Shopping outlets on the South Coast have taken extra precautions and adopted stricter cleaning protocols amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
Although at the time of writing the effects of the virus had not reached the South Coast, local shopping centres are being proactive to protect staff and shoppers.
ALSO READ : COVID-19 infection toll rises – but no cases on South Coast
Alice Brandsma, marketing manager of Hibiscus Mall said they would install spray dispensers at each entrance.
“The main toilet door will be kept open so it does not have to be touched all the time and we have encouraged all tenants to provide hand sanitisers in their shops. The mall is also having its air conditioners sanitised.”
Beaudene Steyn, marketing manager of Shelly Centre said they had briefed their cleaning staff and implemented increased routine cleaning of frequently used surfaces, objects and areas to help to prevent the transmission of COVID-19.
“They will provide information on good hygiene practices displayed within the mall and ablution facilities at Shelly Centre. We will be rolling out sanitizing stations within the mall for shoppers to make use of if they so wish,” she said.
Scott Thorburn, general manager, inland for Redefine Properties, management agent for Southcoast Mall said Redefine was following strict procedures for routine cleaning and disinfecting.
“Extra cleaners with specific job descriptions have been added to support regular staff in the intensive cleaning of surface areas that are subject to continuous human contact, including but not limited to stair and escalator handrails, lift buttons, biometric security, door handles, guest relation areas, parking machine equipment and common pause area furniture.”
As part of its plan, Redefine has increased the frequency with which it cleans its facilities in all common areas and will provide hand sanitisers at strategic positions within the common areas in malls and the reception areas of office buildings where practical.
Hand sanitisers are recommended by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the Centre for Disease Control (CDC) and endorsed by the local health authorities as part of preventative protocols.
“Our efforts are guided by the local health authorities and best practices. The health and safety of our customers, tenants and employees remains our highest priority,” said Mr Thorburn.
The CDC prioritises the use of soap as a front line defence against the spread of the virus and recommends washing hands with soap and water as the best way to clean hands. If soap and water are not available, using a hand sanitiser with at least 60 percent alcohol can help, according to the CDC.
“We have been monitoring the developments surrounding COVID-19 and communicating with the centre managers across our retail portfolio. All our managers are empowered to make decisions necessary to best ensure the safety of everyone in the community,” added Mr Thorburn.
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