Recognising the need to address the increase in Covid-19 cases ahead of the holiday period, Cyril Ramaphosa called a ‘family meeting’ to put in place further restrictions. The following key changes (as per the amended Disaster Management Regulations) could potentially impact the healthcare industry.

  1. The curfew listed in regulation 82 is from 22:00 to 04:00, as opposed to the announced curfew from 23:00 to 04:00 (please ensure that staff have the necessary permits)
  2. Staff performing services during that time must have a permit as per Form 7 in the Regulations (see the template here). Increased enforcement (e.g. roadblocks) during this period is highly likely and so it is encouraged to have all the necessary documents available at all times
  3. Events hosted by employers or practices must comply with regulation 84 on gatherings.
  4. Initiation practices are prohibited in all provinces but the Eastern Cape (excluding Nelson Mandela Bay).