The Ho Chi Minh City Department of Tourism has moved to issue a strict set of criteria aimed at thoroughly assessing the safety of tourism companies to prevent and combat the potential spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).

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The set of recently-issued criteria aims to help travel businesses and lodging establishments manage the risk of COVID-19 transmission whilst simultaneously helping these firms resume business in the near future. 

The guide features a list of 10 criteria from 10 risk groups that relate to information about the medical declarations completed by guests, providing training courses for employees regarding prevention measures, supplying hygienic cleaning products at workplaces, wearing face masks, and checking body temperatures in line with regulations outlined by the Ministry of Health. 

Travel firms have been urged to carry out preventive measures for employees and guests, such as enforcing a two-metre safe distance while arranging backup isolation areas for guests.

When a business operating in the tourism industry is able to fully meet all of these criteria, then it will be considered safe to operate.