Both in the video, which simulates the operation of a games room in a possible reopening, and in the document of intention, the association clarifies that it would be very easy for operators to reopen games rooms while maintaining the requirements of more distance and hygiene required in a reopening phase.
DAV is campaigning for the reopening of around 9,000 gambling halls in Germany, which is why it has approached politicians and authorities with concrete proposals for strict protection against possible infections. "From the point of view of infection prevention, commercial rooms have the great advantage that the legal provisions to operate a game room already include the principle of social distancing," said board spokesman Georg Stecker.
In North Rhine-Westphalia gambling halls, a maximum of 12 slots can be installed in an area of approximately 150 m² per room. In addition, the minimum distance between individual devices is regulated, as well as the use of screens, which can serve as separation protection in the current situation and a limitation on the number of users (no more than machines in the game room). Consequently, there is no risk of infection from crowds of people or close contacts.
Experts say other precautionary measures, such as cleaning machines with disinfectant every time the player leaves them, distance lines on the floor in front of them and in the entrance area, and the condition that money can only be paid change at the ATM and not through service personnel, would be necessary. It is particularly important to ensure the distance between service personnel and customers and the distance between customers themselves, emphasizes DAV.
DAV also proposes specific precautionary measures that can be implemented in the short term and that can further increase protection against contagion: limitation of the number of guests, provision of disinfectant or sanitizing products for users, reduction of services, special cleaning of devices, recommendation to use masks.
With this initiative to reopen gambling halls as soon as possible, DAV wants to help ensure that consumers do not switch to illegal offers without the protection of players and youth, as the association points out. Reopening legal and licensed gambling halls is the best way to protect youth and consumers.
In recent days, at a press conference, Chancellor Merkel announced on May 4 the end of the blockade and the gradual reopening of all activities, if conditions allow to do so.
Source: GMB
