As theaters begin to re-open slowly across the country, concerns have naturally turned towards the question of how to keep things safe and sanitary for those interested in visiting. In response to these concerns, the National Association of Theater Owners has issued a brand new nationwide set of health and safety protocols intended to reduce the spread of Coronavirus, and keep patrons safe.
The rules, dubbed “CinemaSafe” by the organization, include a wide host of safety measures that theaters will be expected to adhere to. Most crucially, the rules as written require everyone on location to wear masks at all times, and to practice strict social distancing, with exceptions made for those with disabilities or other conditions that make mask wearing difficult.
This is obviously good news for those attending cinemas, as it will encourage those who participate to enforce safety protocols meant to reduce the spread of the virus. However, it is worth noting that the protocols are voluntary, and there is no official method of enforcement being implemented for the time being. As of now, over 300 companies, comprising around 2,600 locations nationwide, have signed onto the agreement, with more expected to follow as the rules are distributed and implemented.
AMC has agreed to the rules as well, suggesting that it will remove anyone who refuses to follow the protocols. Similarly, Megan Colligan, President of Imax Entertainment argued that an agreement such as this was vital to re-opening: “It was super clear that a nationalized program that brought the industry together was really the thing that consumers were looking for more than anything else in feeling like it was safe to return to the movies….”
The rules are based on a combination of guidance from the CDC, WHO, and OSHA guidelines, and comprise some of the most common and important aspects of Coronavirus protection. It remains to be seen how effective CinemaSafe is, but Colligan seemed hopeful, remarking, “Some people need to go to the gym. Some people need to surf. And some people need to go to the movies…. Moviegoing is beloved around the world and I think as we start to serve new content, audiences will be very responsible.”
Source: The Hollywood Reporter
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