Following the announcement that Shanghai Disneyland will be reopening with controlled capacity on May 11, Disney Parks Chief Medical Office Dr. Pamela Hymel shared some of the plans and considerations that Disney is looking at ahead of the reopening of the domestic parks.
Dr. Hymel said that they are evaluating new and enhanced safety measures, as well as working with the US Travel Association on a set of guidelines for the industry.
Dr. Hymel stressed that safety of their guests is the top focus. To that end, she shared some the ideas that Disney is exploring.
Phased Reopening
Disney is looking at all of the locations and how best to begin the process. Some locations will see a gradual or partial reopening, with retail and dining locations open prior to theme parks.
Physical Distancing and Capacity Measures
Disney will need to implement guest capacity measures in order to comply with government guidelines on physical distancing. They are currently looking at what technology would best aid in that process, using the Play Disney Parks app or virtual queues through the My Disney Experience or Disneyland apps.
Cleanliness and Sanitization
Disney will increase their cleaning and disinfection, but they are still working on determining when that should take place, identifying high traffic areas, and choosing the proper cleaning products and processes.
Screening and Prevention Support
While hand sanitizers and hand washing stations have already been added across the resorts, Disney will follow government guidelines regarding temperature screenings and the use of masks or personal protection equipment.
Cast Training
Disney will continue to emphasize health and safety with their Cast Members and provide updated training and reinforcement as reopening dates are identified.
Finally, I want to recognize the medical professionals working to bring care and comfort in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic. We will continue to do what we can to help support the medical community and our local communities during this time.
We’re looking forward to welcoming you back to our Disney parks, resorts and stores. Until we are together once again, we wish you and your families health, hope, and happiness.
Thank you,
Pamela Hymel, M.D.
Source: Disney Parks Blog
Tom is the host and producer of the DIS Unplugged: Disneyland Edition podcast, plus Disneyland Editor of The DIS. He enjoys traveling with his wife and teenage son. At this point, their favorite destination is Alaska, with a FIFTH cruise there planned for the Summer of 2019. In his spare time he volunteers with Boy Scouts and Cub Scouts, and help found his son's former Cub Scout Pack. His favorite Disneyland attraction is Space Mountain.
