Alert Level 3 – back in business but not as we know it

open1aAlthough many New Zealanders will soon be able to return to work, under Alert Level 3 it will not be a case of ‘business as usual’, Brett O’Riley from the EMA (Employers’ and Manufacturers’ Association) confirms.

“[The Government’s timeline] seems to strike a good balance between our country’s health and the economy, but people must be vigilant and stick strictly to Health and Safety (H&S) guidelines,” he says.

New Zealand will move from COVID-19 Alert Level 4 to Alert Level 3 at 11.59pm on Monday April 27; with a decision regarding further changes to the Alert Level expected on May 11.

“Companies with international connections got an early start on some of their crisis management and business continuity, so they’re all ready to go. For others, it’s now a matter of nailing down their process to be most profitable with what they can do, and ensuring their plan to keep their people safe is watertight.”

With regards to the retail sector, Mr O’Riley is hopeful that ‘one in, one out’ restrictions could be permitted soon.

“Many [in retail] are confident they can manage with ‘one in, one out’ policies and other management measures such as registration, and we hope the Government is open to considering this,” he adds.

“It may be that the review of Level 3 two weeks after it begins next Tuesday, April 28, may provide the relief the retail and hospitality sectors are seeking. It’s not a trade-off between public health and the economy, it’s about everyone sticking stringently to the rules, which businesses certainly will for the sake of their survival.”

For detailed explanations of restrictions under Alert Level 3, visit covid19.govt.nz.