Operators must implement measures to prevent the transmission of COVID-19. Note: this guideline is not intended to be used for animal competitions. For competitive and show events involving animals, please refer to the Racing and Rodeo Guidelines.
COVID-19 droplet transmission is much more likely when individuals are in close contact. The likelihood of transmission between individuals participating in sport, physical activity and recreation in an indoor setting is significantly higher. Transmission is less likely in an outdoor setting, where air flow is greater and there is more space for individuals to keep physically distanced.
COVID-19 can also be transmitted if someone touches a contaminated surface and then touches their face without washing their hands. Many activities involve shared equipment among participants, coaches/staff, instructors, officials or volunteers. The virus does not enter the body through skin; it enters through the eyes, nose or mouth when an individual touches their face. This is why regular hand hygiene and cleaning of high-touch surfaces are so important.
Each sports organization and/or facility must establish a plan for how to avoid physical contact and the risk of COVID-19 transmission between participants. The guidance should align with provincial and national sporting bodies for each activity and be at least as restrictive as provincial guidelines.