Some businesses to resume operations when lockdown level 4 is activated - Ramaphosa
President Cyril Ramaphosa says some businesses will be allowed to resume operations next week Friday when South Africa's lockdown regulations will be slightly relaxed.
On Thursday night, President Cyril Ramaphosa announced government's plan on how it will gradually phase the country out of the lockdown and resume economic activity.
He explained the easing of regulations was part of a five-step approach implemented by the National Coronavirus Command Council.
The country is currently at level five - which consists of the most drastic measures of government's actions to contain COVID-19.
Ramaphosa says following a meeting on Thursday with the National Coronavirus Command Council - they've decided to lower the lockdown to level four with effect from next week Friday.
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"This means that some activity will be allowed to resume subject to extreme precautions to limit community transmission and outbreaks. Some businesses will be allowed to resume operations under specific conditions."
"Every business will have to adhere to detailed health and safety protocols to protect their employees, and workplace plans will be put in place to enable disease surveillance and prevent the spread of infection."
"All businesses that are permitted to resume operations will be required to do so in a phased manner, first preparing the workplace for a return to operations, followed by the return of the workforce in batches of no more than one-third."
"In some cases, a sector will not be able to return to full production during Level 4, while the risk of infection remains high. These will be spelt out next week following a final round of consultations."
"Businesses will be encouraged to adopt a work-from-home strategy where possible. All staff who can work remotely must be allowed to do so."
Ramaphosa says there'll also be separate levels for each province and municipality in the country.
Ministers who serve in the National Coronavirus Command Council will through the various Cabinet clusters, further elaborate on the implementation of the directives as outlined by President today.
The Ministers will among others unpack socio-economic relief and the strengthening of the performance of the economy under the current conditions.
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