Industry News
Chamonix and its operating entity, Compagnie du Mont Blanc, are leading the way in a post-COVID-19 world as they began screening skiers and riders for coronavirus when they reopened this past weekend.
The “experimental and unprecedented” procedure involves a comprehensive screening process that uses high tech cameras, socially distanced lines, and an entire “welcome and safety protocol”. The whole process must be adhered to by all staff and visitors. The most futuristic aspect of the process is definitely the thermal imaging cameras that can detect if a person has a fever prior to loading.
CMB began testing the process in April and at the beginning of May with great success, enough that resort officials felt comfortable reopening the Aiguille du Midi tramway along with the Montenvers Mer de Glace railway line. The positive move is being watched across the world as other mountain communities that rely on tourism look to how they can reopen safely.
The famous Aiguille du Midi opened over the weekend, and freeskier Tof Henry was there, releasing this epic video to show us what we’re missing.
More details of the screening process from their website are below:
COVID-19 – Welcome & Information:
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic & in compliance with the governmental sanitary regulations, our teams have deployed an experimental “Health & Safety” welcome system up to the standards demanded by visitors & staff alike:
- Thermal camera (compliance with GDPR guidelines).
- Hydro-Alcoholic solution.
- Mask to be worn during all phases of the transport & in the confined waiting areas (Please come equipped)
- Transport specially adapted (limited numbers, distance between visitors, special circulation measures….)
- A full “Welcome & Safety” protocol for both visitors & staff
- Regular disinfection of lifts, trains & buildings
- Full information panels with instructions to be followed before & during the visit
