The corona conundrum

FM operators and suppliers weigh in on tackling the COVID-19 pandemic

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We are all in the midst of a global pandemic. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), a pandemic is declared when a new disease for which people do not have immunity spreads around the world beyond expectations.

Such an event is unprecedented. At the outset of the coronavirus or COVID-19 outbreak, the UAE began the process of disinfection, starting with schools.

Dr Naseem Mohammed Rafee, head of Dubai Municipality’s Public Health and Safety Department stated that a comprehensive sterilisation programme is being implemented in private schools across Dubai to ensure the health and safety of over 300,000 students as well as staff.

In addition, authorities set up a dedicated team to disinfect and sanitise Dubai’s public areas as a precautionary measure to contain the spread of COVID-19.

In the aviation sector too cleaning regimens were in place; for instance, Emirates airline confirmed that it was stepping up its aircraft cleaning. “The safety and health of our customers and employees is taken very seriously and we are continuously liaising with international and local health organizations to ensure we are following the most up-to-date medical guidelines and directives,” said Adel Al Redha, chief operating officer, Emirates Airline.

During times of the COVID-19 crises where hygiene is of paramount importance, the FM sector is quite naturally on the frontlines and should bear as custodians of tackling this predicament so as to curb the ongoing menace.

Demand