The Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities outlined on Sunday regulations for all archaeological missions operating at archaeological sites across Egypt, amid the ongoing coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
Secretary General of the Supreme Council for Antiquities, Moustafa Waziri, said the ministry’s preventive measures oblige all members of archaeological missions to have their temperature checked daily.
He explained that workers have to wear face masks and gloves, and ensure their digging tools are regularly disinfected. The number of workers allowed at open-air excavation sites should not exceed 30 individuals, with social distance regulations applied, he added.
However, only four people, including the antiquities inspector, would be allowed inside tombs or burial chambers at any one time, he said.
Waziri asserted that all workers should take the necessary safety and health precautions while eating or drinking during breaks.
The Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities has also discussed the plan to open museums and archaeological sites nationwide. These include such notable attractions as the Baron Empain Palace in Heliopolis, the Sharm El Sheikh Museum, the Royal Vehicle Museum, and the Fustat’s National Museum of Egyptian Civilization.
