Coronavirus: Mask compulsory for entry to shops in Muscat

Muscat: People entering shopping establishments will be obligated to wear a mask and will have to undertake thermal screening to be allowed inside, Muscat Municipality has announced.

If the person's body temperature is more than 37.5 degrees Celsius, they will not be allowed entry to malls and shopping centres. Additionally, children will not be allowed entry into shops. These decisions were part of several measures announced by the municipality in decision number 199/2020, which lists out 15 safety measures to be observed by commercial establishments.

Malls and shopping centres must also sanitise all carts and trolleys before and after each use, ensure adequate ventilation and promote social distancing with a minimum of 2 metres distance between people. Workers must be given protective equipment and no business, not approved by the Supreme Committee, will be carried out. Shop owners will also ensure sterilisation of surfaces and stop transfer of employees between branches. Those showing symptoms of illness need to be isolated.

In case these decisions are not followed, a fine of OMR 500 will be applicable, in addition to a shutdown of the premises for three days. Further infractions will attract a fine of OMR 2,000 followed by a shutdown of ten days.