Amended rules on restrictions come into force on 14 August

According to a new announcement by the Minister of Health on restrictions on gatherings due to the pandemic, which comes into effect on 14 August, the rules on social distancing will be relaxed in further and higher education colleges, as well as in sport. Otherwise, the general rule of a 2-metre distance will continue to apply. In situations where the nature of the activity requires individuals to be closer than two metres, and on public transport where a journey lasts for 30 minutes or longer, a face covering must be worn. Nursing homes, other healthcare institutions and similar establishments are required to establish rules for their operations, such as regarding visits from external parties. Gathering limits will continue to be set at a maximum of 100 people. As stated in the minister's announcement, strong emphasis is placed on personal and general infection control through frequent and regular cleaning in places where people gather. 

The changes in the new order restricting gatherings are in line with the recommendations of the Director of Public Health, as set out in his memorandum to the minister of 11 August. The new order will come into effect on 27 August.

Proximity restrictions in further and higher education

In further and higher education institutions, individuals will be permitted to be 1 metre apart without wearing face masks. Shared equipment and high-touch surfaces must be disinfected at least once a day, with an emphasis on personal hygiene.

Proximity restriction in sports

Despite the general rule of a 2-metre social distancing, physical contact will be permitted between athletes during training and competitions. However, the 2-metre rule must be observed in changing rooms and in other areas outside of competition and training. Others, including coaches, staff and volunteers, must always observe the 2-metre rule. The Icelandic Olympic and Sports Association shall set out further rules for its member associations in consultation with the Director of Public Health, including on personal hygiene, the disinfection of equipment, and the conduct of training sessions and competitions.

Face masks

In situations where the use of face masks is mandatory, as defined in the announcement, only masks that meet the requirements of the European Committee for Standardisation (CEN) should be used. Furthermore, the Chief Medical Officer has issued further guidance in this regard.

Children

Children born in 2005 or later remain exempt from the provisions of Article 3 of the announcement concerning numerical restrictions and Article 4 on general proximity restrictions.

The changes in question relate solely to restrictions on gatherings due to the domestic pandemic, as the current regulation expires on 14 August. A memo from the Director of Public Health to the Minister of Health also discusses possible changes to the border screening arrangements. The current regulation in this regard is valid until 15 September.

See the announcement from the Ministry of Health on the website of the Icelandic Government. 

Photo: Golli