Covid-19 restrictions eased for businesses.

August 28, 2021 Tanyaporn R.

The Centre for Covid-19 Situation Administration will be easing safety restrictions for businesses. This includes allowing malls, beauty salons, massage shops, sport fields, public parks, and businesses that operate outside to re-open. Doctor Apisamai Srirangsan from the Center reported on 27 August 2021 that the colors for each province regarding the Covid-19 situation will remain the same. This is to categorize how serious Covid-19 is in each province. The doctor also stated that the Health Ministry can handle the current situation in Thailand.

Officials reported there will be 6 changes to safety precautions in the 29 provinces categorized as the red zones and the dark red zones. The new changes will take effect on 1 September 2021.

1. Traveling across provinces can only be for essential travel reasons. Those who test positive or those who have had Covid-19 are advised to follow the Travel Back Home Project to help limit the spread of the virus. The public transportation system is setting the capacity at 75%. Passengers must wear a mask at all times and dining while inside the vehicle is not allowed.

2. Restaurants that are open air or those with no air conditioner can allow dine in at a capacity of 75%. Restaurants inside with air conditioning can allow dine in with a capacity of 50%. Businesses are expected to follow the safety precautions strictly.

3. Regulations for malls and community malls can reopen as usual with exceptions to some businesses. Movie cinemas, spas, fun parks, fitness centers, swimming pools, tutor centers, and conference centers are still required to remain closed.

4. Businesses that must follow safety measures such as massage shops, beauty salons, and beauty clinics. Beauty salons are allowed to cut hair only, massage shops are allowed to provide foot massages only, and beauty clinics are allowed to sell products only.

5. Educational buildings can operate with permission from the responsible government sector.

6. Sport stadiums and public parks can reopen if the activities are done outside. Activities are allowed without an audience. These locations can open until 20.00 everyday.