LOUISVILLE, Ky. (LEX 18) — The Kentucky Derby released a statement stating it will be instituting new practices at Churchill Downs Racetrack ahead of the 146th Kentucky Derby, which is currently scheduled for May 2.
A Message to our Guests, Fans, and Family ➡️https://t.co/9dfrjeMQOD pic.twitter.com/zCbtS66N2t
— Kentucky Derby (@KentuckyDerby) March 14, 2020
The new practices found in the statement are listed below.
- Doubling all housekeeping staff at the track and on backside to increase frequency of cleaning disinfecting high-touch surfaces including gate turnstiles, doors, door knobs, handles, restrooms, tables, chairs, light, switches, elevator buttons security card readers, etc.
- Educating all employees on CDC guidance, including proper handwashing techniques, and the avoidance of touching eyes, nose, and mouth
- Requesting all vendors to thoroughly communicate hygiene protocol to their staff and employees.
- Instructing all employees feeling unwell to refrain from coming to work.
- Utilizing cleaning chemicals that meet the latest Environmental Protection Agency Emerging Viral Pathogen Policy and CDC requirements for registered disinfectants
- Implementing the use of electrostatic spraying systems after hours to supplement routine surface cleaning
- Increasing public hand-sanitizing stations in high-traffic areas, containing gel that meets or exceeds the CDC standard for alcohol content
- Enforcing a renewed focus on our ongoing maintenance efforts, including:
- Regular thorough cleaning of all restrooms on the track and backside, with pre-cleanings daily as well as routine cleanings during normal operation - Continuously wiping down all betting stations with 60% alcohol cleaning solution
- Using disposable gloves during food preparation in all kitchens and sanitizing all food prep surfaces at the track and on the backside, including cutting boards, counter tops and cutting utensils while also washing hands before, during and after food preparation
-Routinely changing out air filters with a high grade minimum efficiency reporting value rating and cleaning HVAC equipment while monitoring CO2, humidity, and ventilation and using air economization and filtration to help dilute any airborne particulate matter.
The statement also included that it will be waiving liquid restrictions to allow guests to bring their own hand sanitizer onsite. (All other liquids still prohibited.)
