Re-Opening Plans (Update on June 3)

June 3, 2020

AMENDMENT to May 29, 2020 Notice

NOTIFICATION RE: Submission of Facility Re-Opening Plans and Protocols

To all Ontario-based Badminton Clubs:

The amendment to the Emergency Order allows for the opening and controlled use of sporting facilities, with the exception of pools. As the provincial sport or multi-sport organization recognized by the Ministry of Heritage, Sport, Tourism and Culture Industries, Badminton Ontario is permitting all Affiliated Clubs of the 2019-2020 season to resume operations under strict modified conditions which includes only permitting singles play; no doubles play regardless of same residency.

Again, If your club/facility believes it is well equipped with return to play protocols, please remember to exercise caution in all operations.  Some practices to consider are:

– Educating your staff and members about the return to play protocols and precautions

– Providing instructions indicating that if visitors are experiencing flu-like symptoms to leave immediately before entering the facilities

– Visible signage with general instructions, information, updates

– Keeping all common elements closed

– Providing sanitization stations

– Only permitting training in groups with two or less students, maintaining physical distancing

– Handling shuttles with caution, sanitization before and after going onto court

– All facilities should conduct a thorough cleaning after each day of operations

The amendment to the Emergency Order outlines specific regulations that must be followed by every person, facility and organization that chooses to return to sport before their club resumes.  Badminton Ontario also requires that all Club and Facility operators are required to put in place health and safety protocols that comply with the Chief Medical Officer of Health’s recommendations. We encourage you to work with your local public health offices to develop these protocols. These plans and protocols should be submitted to Badminton Ontario for review at jean.wong@badmintonontario.ca.

Ultimately, it is up to each club to determine whether they can reopen under the required conditions as set out by the Emergency Order. As Ontario gradually reopens, it is more important than ever to follow public health advice of the Chief Medical Officer of Health.

Badminton Ontario also reminds all member clubs and registered individuals, that all activities must adhere to the Quarantine Act (Canada), Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act (Ontario), as well as any municipal bylaws and facility rules in place related to COVID-19 physical distancing and public or private gatherings.  Failure to abide by these federal, provincial, or municipal requirements may result in legal prosecution by government as well as denial of insurance coverage by Badminton Ontario and possible Badminton Ontario disciplinary measures.

Ontario is committed to ensuring our athletes play safe when it is safe to play.

Respectfully,

Jean Wong

Technical Director

Appendix A – List of Affiliated Clubs of Badminton Ontario

 ** End of list