How the Olympics 2021 Will Be Managed In The COVID Era

Today we’ll discuss crisis management 101. In the context of the unparalleled challenges of COVID-19, it is always better to avoid doing anything that is likely to extend the crisis. That is why we should probably remember Murphy’s Law – anything that can go wrong will go wrong – and be sure to take all precautions. After all, it’s better to be safe than sorry.

We can all agree that the pandemic has been a rollercoaster of crisis, with multiple spin balls, like the ones thrown by the Indian Cricket Team in their winning Test matches! That being said, let’s take a look at how the authorities plan to manage the Olympic that are finally set to take place in 2021, after having been postponed for a year.

Read on to learn about crisis management in the Olympics 2021, and how this year’s Games will be managed in the COVID era.

COVID-19 Countermeasures

Protecting the athletes, spectators, torchbearers, volunteers, staff, residents, and others involved in the Olympic and Paralympic Games is of course paramount. Therefore, the Tokyo Organising Committee will implement certain COVID-19 countermeasures based on the “Guidelines Covering COVID-19 Countermeasures“.

As you’ve probably already guessed, the committee will implement these countermeasures to ensure a safe and secure environment at the Olympics for everyone involved. Let’s take a closer look at these measures!

Avoiding the 3Cs

Wondering what the 3 C’s are? Here you go: closed spaces, crowded places, and close contact – these are the 3C’s to that will be avoided at the Olympics in the COVID-19 era. So, how are the 3C’s going to be achieved?

Avoiding crowds can be an arduous task, especially at a massive international event. Therefore, to ensure that safety measures are followed, an appropriate distance will be set and maintained between all spectators. Additionally, all the closed spaces will also be properly ventilated.

Prevention of Droplet Transmission and Contact Infection

All people involved in the Tokyo Olympics, including those in the Torch Relay, are now required to wear face masks. Not only that, but people are also asked to refrain from talking loudly. Moreover, the same protocols have to be followed by the spectators in addition to athletes and officials.

This year, instead of cheering for their favourite players, spectators will have to make do with giving a round of applause to show their support. In addition, all torch bearers must wear masks when they are not running. However, running without a mask is allowed if an appropriate distance is maintained from other people.

Thorough Disinfection and Sterilisation

An event as monumental as the Olympics certainly calls for a perfectly-safe environment, given the number of lives at stake. Therefore, an appropriate place to wash and disinfect hands will be provided at the games this year.

Additionally, all high-traffic spots will be sterilised and cleaned regularly. These places include key event venues and vehicles transporting athletes and torchbearers, among others.

Restricting Spectator Participation

That might come as a shock to many, but for most spectators, the Tokyo Olympics will be a live-streamed rather than a live event. Spectators have been advised to watch live streams of the event from the comfort of their homes to avoid community transmission.

The athletes may miss the crowds, but at least the world will be able to watch these spectacular events one way or another! Additionally, the live stream may not show all the torchbearers making the torch relay symbolic this time around.

Thorough Management and Monitoring of Health Conditions

COVID-19 has truly highlighted that health comes before everything else. To ensure good health and safety at the Olympics, authorities will carry out regular checks to monitor and manage health conditions.

If any participant feels unwell or thinks that they may be infected, they must report this to the authorities, and they will be tested as soon as possible. Additionally, all operational staff and officials will be required to undergo testing regularly. A daily health checklist will also be implemented to ensure high health standards.

Through and Effective Communication

Communication is key – it always has been, and always will be. All the important information will be made available on the official Olympics site. Furthermore, all protocols will also be communicated via social media, public relations materials, and public information boards. Furthermore, an immediate response plan has been put in place to the rescue when someone tests positive for COVID-19 or feels unwell.

Final Words

These are just a few of the policies and processes that organisers will use to prevent COVID-19 from spreading during the 2021 Olympics. If you are interested in learning more about the guidelines laid down for the Olympics, you can head on to the official webpage.

It is safe to say that much thought has gone into ensuring the highest standards of health and safety at the Olympics this year. So, stay home and stay safe. And obviously, do not forget to watch the much-awaited live stream of the Tokyo games!