Museums and other cultural sites will finally be able to open their doors this coming Friday. Now, the government has released a list of mitigation measures that must be in place when patrons start visiting.

With social distancing measures and other restrictions covered in a 12-page document, here’s what you need to know if you’re planning a trip to one of Malta’s museums or many cultural sites.

Are there limits on the number of people and will social distancing measures need to be followed?

Yes, these establishments need to ensure that every person keeps a two-metre distance from others, including staff. There will be a one-person per four square metres limit on the number of people museum, and cultural sites can have at a time.

Visible signs will need to be affixed at the entrance with two-metre markings to indicate where to queue.

The number of visitors should be limited, so even museums which have a free entrance will be required to issue tickets. They will also need to keep a record of the names, contact details and date and time of visit for all visitors to facilitate contact tracing.

A rigorous cleaning schedule must be followed.

Can a museum or cultural site refuse your entry?

Yes. The management at these premises can exercise the right of refusal of entry into the museum/cultural site of visitors if they are visibly unwell or have respiratory symptoms including coughing, fever, shortness of breath, runny nose or sore throat.

Museums and cultural sites will take your temperature before entering.

Do you need to wear a mask?

Yes. Museums and cultural sites must ensure that visitors and staff always wear a face mask (covering mouth, nose and chin) or face visor.

What about hand sanitisers?

Hand sanitisers must be made available at the entrance of the museum and ensure that all persons sanitise their hands before entering. They also need to be made available in other strategic areas, like bathrooms.

And what about all the electronic guides?

Establishments need to ensure that devices like audio guides are systematically disinfected before and after each use. Disposable headphones are not recommended.

The distribution of 3-D glasses that are reused by multiple visitors is not allowed.

Can I still hold an exhibition?

Yes. The same rules applied to museums and cultural sites also apply to exhibitions.

Do you agree with the new measures? Comment below