COVID-19: Preventive measures to be followed at places of religious worship issued

• Maximum number of persons who would be allowed to enter places of worship should not exceed 50

By Sheain Fernandopulle

The Health Ministry has issued the preventive measures to be followed at places of religious worship during the pandemic.

Director General of Health Services Dr Asela Gunawardane said inside and outside of places of worship, entrance, lobbies, waiting areas, preaching halls and prayer halls should not be crowded.

According to the guidelines, the maximum number of persons who would be allowed to enter places of worship should not exceed 50.

In addition, the floor markings should have at least one metre apart at the entrance, lobbies, waiting areas, preaching halls and prayer halls to ensure the physical distancing of persons in all directions.

Benches should also be marked at least one metre apart to ensure the physical distancing of persons.
Also, all facilities should be available to wash hands with soap and water while all who enter the religious places including priests should wear face masks.