Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) guidance for air border - red zones - Air Border - Ministry of Health
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Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) guidance for air border – red zones Air Border Version 1.2 Released 18 May 2021 Note: this document is updated regularly. Printed copies may be out-of-date. V1.2 | 18/05/2021 1
Table of Contents
IPC Cover Sheet .............................................................................................................. 4
Sign-Off Sheet ................................................................................................................... 4
1 IPC at airports ............................................................................................................ 11
General IPC principles .......................................................................................... 11
Good practice IPC measures ................................................................................ 11
Education and training .......................................................................................... 11
Border workers ..................................................................................................... 11
Hand hygiene........................................................................................................ 12
1.6 Glove use .............................................................................................................. 13
1.7 Coughing and sneezing etiquette .......................................................................... 13
1.8 Physical distancing ............................................................................................... 13
1.9 PPE ...................................................................................................................... 14
1.10 Routine testing for COVID-19 border workers ....................................................... 16
1.11 Vaccination............................................................................................................ 16
2 Table of recommended COVID-19 PPE..................................................................... 17
2.1 Red zone PPE requirements................................................................................. 17
2.2 Moving between red and green zones .................................................................. 20
3 Cleaning...................................................................................................................... 21
3.1 Basic principles of cleaning and disinfection ......................................................... 21
3.2 Cleaning products ................................................................................................. 23
3.3 Cleaning process .................................................................................................. 23
3.4 Aircraft cleaning processes ................................................................................... 23
3.5 Laundry................................................................................................................. 25
4 Waste Management, IPC signage and Miscellaneous items ................................... 27
4.1 Waste management - red zones ........................................................................... 27
V1.2 | 18/05/2021 2
4.2 Displaying IPC information in arrival and departure areas ..................................... 27
4.3 Soft goods and materials ...................................................................................... 28
5 On Boarding and at Arrival........................................................................................ 29
5.1 Offloading and escorting ....................................................................................... 29
6 Arrival pathway .......................................................................................................... 30
6.1 Passengers ........................................................................................................... 30
6.2 Waiting areas ........................................................................................................ 30
6.3 Health pre-screening/screening ............................................................................ 30
6.4 Urgent medical care required ................................................................................ 31
6.5 Passport control (including manual processing) .................................................... 31
6.6 Luggage Handling and Collection ......................................................................... 32
How to use PPE (including medical masks) and gloves safely ......... 33
How to wear a mask safely................................................................... 36
How to put on PPE safely ..................................................................... 38
V1.2 | 18/05/2021 3
IPC Cover Sheet
Sign-Off Sheet
Standard Operating Procedure Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) – Air
Border
Version number 1.2
Release Date 18/05/2021
Review Cycle Monthly
Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) Sub- Emma Hickson
TAG
Signature
Date 11/5/2021
Clinical Oversight Governance Group
Signature Noted in COG meetings dated 10 and 17 May
2021
Date 17/5/2021
GM COVID-19 Border and Managed Shona Meyrick
Isolation
Signature
Date 18/05/2021
V1.2 | 18/05/2021 4Development
The Ministry of Health (MoH) IPC sub-TAG and the COVID-19 Border Operations team has led the
development of this IPC Guidance. This document is based on existing international guidance on
infection prevention and control for COVID-19 and also follows any relevant infection prevention and
control requirements mandated in the Air Border Order.
The guidance is reviewed by the MoH IPC sub-TAG and COVID-19 Border Operations team on a
monthly cycle to ensure it reflects good practice in IPC for COVID-19 and any infection prevention and
control requirements mandated in the Air Border Order.
Version history
Version Date Author Position Description of changes
1.0 1 March MoH COVID-19 Border Operations This replaces previous advice on
2021 Border guidance on air border managed
Operations team isolation provided on the MoH
and MoH IPC website.
Sub- TAG group
1.1 31 March MOH COVID-19 Border Operations Revised use of terms ‘must’ and
2021 Border ‘should’ to differentiate between good
Operations and or best practice IPC requirements and
MoH IPC Sub- those that are mandated by New
TAG Group Zealand legislation. Updates to PPE
table to provide greater clarity of best
or good practice advice. Introduced
definition of PCBU and highlighted
where relevant the legislated
obligations that PCBUs have to
workers. Added definitions of ‘face
covering’ and ‘medical mask’.
Removed references to timeslot
separation for airports operating both
red and green flights and replaced to
reflect physical separation.
Amended requirements of green flight
passengers/aircrew to reflect face
covering to be worn only through
airside areas of airports. Added
definition of “airside/airside area(s)”
and “domestic alert level”.
Amended requirements of face
covering to include length guidance
on replacement of face covering.
Included reference to temperature
checking and secondary health
V1.2 | 18/05/2021 5checks to be limited to arriving
passengers only.
Amended definition of physical
distancing to differentiate
requirements for red and green
zone(s).
1.2 MOH COVID-19 Guidance divided into two individual
Border Operations documents for red and green zone(s).
and IPC Sub-TAG
Amendments made to include
recommendation that air conditioning
systems remain on after landing,
during disembarkation and before and
during aircraft workers entering a red
zone aircraft.
Layout of documents has been
reordered to align with importance of
IPC layout and the IPC principles.
Information for exemption and other
inaccuracies rectified.
Removal of information on the use of
non-medical masks for red zones and
flights.
Added clarification to actions that
workers need to take when moving
between red and green zones.
Feedback
This is a living document and we welcome your feedback via email at COVID-
19BorderOps@health.govt.nz. For any specific IPC issues please email IPC@health.govt.govt.nz.
Purpose
This document provides information, infection prevention and control (IPC) guidance and mandated
requirements to control the risk of infection and transmission of COVID-19 at the air border1. It is
relevant for anyone working at the air border as well as passengers and aircrew for non-quarantine free
travel (red) flights.
The use of “must” in this document indicates a mandatory legal requirement. The use of “should”
indicates that the requirement is strongly recommended by MoH and is good practice for IPC.
This guidance may be used by Persons Conducting a Business or Undertaking (PCBUs) to enable
collaboration with IPC leads from each airport region, to assist in determining what actions it is
1
This also includes inter-regional MIQF “transfer” or “airbridge” flights
V1.2 | 18/05/2021 6reasonably practicable to take, to minimise the risks to workers and other people, from exposure to COVID-19 infection. V1.2 | 18/05/2021 7
Abbreviations
ABO COVID-19 Public Health Response (Air Border) Order (No2) 2020
IPC Infection Prevention and Control
MIQF Managed Isolation or Quarantine Facility
MoH Ministry of Health
PHU Public Health Unit
PCBU Person conducting a business or undertaking under the Health and Safety
at Work Act 2015
PPE Personal Protective Equipment
QFTZ Quarantine Free Travel Zones
RIQCC Regional Isolation Quarantine Control Centre
V1.2 | 18/05/2021 8Definitions
Airside/Airside area(s) Any part of the airport that is inaccessible to the general public but is
accessible to international arriving or international transiting passengers
and border workers (for example, a civil aviation security area or a
Customs-controlled area).
Border Worker A worker who carries out work in any capacity (whether paid or unpaid)
at an airport where an aircraft arrives from a location outside New
Zealand.
Face covering Any type of covering that covers the face and mouth of the wearer. (e.g.
mask, scarf or a bandana).
Green flight(s)/zone(s) Flight(s)/zone(s) at airport(s) that are utilised for the purpose of
facilitating traveller movement for those exempt from isolation or
quarantine requirements through the COVID-19 Public Health Response
(Exemption for Quarantine-free Travel) Notice.
Medical mask A medical or procedure mask that is flat or pleated and is affixed to the
head with straps that go around the ears or head or both. Its performance
characteristics are tested according to a set of standardised test
methods (ASTM F2100 Level 1, 2 or 3, EN 14683 Type IIR, or
equivalent) that aim to balance high filtration, adequate breathability and
optionally, fluid penetration resistance. Refer to Appendix 2: How to wear
a mask safely for mask use guide. The terms medical mask and masks
are used interchangeably throughout this document.
Non-medical mask Also called a fabric mask or face covering. It is neither a medical device
nor personal protective equipment because it is not subject to regulation
or a set of standards. Fabric reusable masks should consist of three
layers and should meet thresholds for filtration, breathability and fit.
These should not have exhalation valves, as these bypass the protection
that is afforded by fabric reusable masks.
Physical Distancing For red flights/zone(s), should be maintained at two metres or more and
has the meaning given to it under the COVID-19 Public Health Response
(Air Border) Order (No 2) 20202.
Red flight(s)/zone(s) Any flight(s)/zone(s) that are not designated as green flight(s)/zone(s),
including those that are utilised for the purpose of facilitating traveller
movement for those subject to isolation or quarantine requirements
2
ABO 2020, cl 4(1) “physical distancing, from other persons, means remaining at least 2 metres away from them.”
V1.2 | 18/05/2021 9through the COVID-19 Public Health Response (Air Border) Order (No
2) 2020.
Regional Alert Level The current alert level in the region in question as specified by any order
made under the COVID-19 Public Health Response Act 2020.
V1.2 | 18/05/2021 101 IPC at airports
General IPC principles
IPC measures at airports help prevent COVID-19 infection from entering New Zealand at the border.
The IPC guiding principles and measures outlined in this document are based on current knowledge of
COVID-19 transmission risk at the border and legal requirements outlined in the Air Border Order.
There are additional precautions for people who have recently returned from overseas and who have a
greater risk of having been exposed to and/or developing COVID-19; and who also have the potential
to transmit the virus to others while they have few or no symptoms. These measures help with the
continued efforts to prevent COVID-19 infection from spreading in New Zealand.
Good practice IPC measures
When working at the air border, employers should ensure workers are familiar with the layout of the
airport, including where designated red and green zones are located and the necessary IPC measures
required to be followed in each zone. This includes the PPE requirements for each zone. In addition,
employers should:
• have clearly identifiable areas for putting on and removing PPE 3
• ensure that waste containers to dispose of used PPE are available
• there is provision of hand sanitiser where needed
• have signage to discourage workers from touching their nose, eyes and mouth area with their hands
• ensure staff areas are cleaned and disinfected regularly.
Education and training
It is the responsibility of employers to ensure that all employees working at an airport are appropriately
trained and educated in the proper use of PPE. Employers should provide regular refresher training to
employees and advise of any changes to IPC or PPE guidance at the earliest possible opportunity after
the change takes effect. This guidance document may be used to complement any current training
materials already provided by employers to employees.
Border workers
All border workers should understand and follow the basic IPC measures to reduce the risk of exposure
to COVID-19. This is especially important if the border workers:
• interact with passengers or crew who have travelled from, or through any overseas ports or
3
IPC experts will work with employers to identify appropriate areas for this activity to take place.
V1.2 | 18/05/2021 11• undertake tasks inside the passenger cabin of an international aircraft (including international
charter or private aircrafts and aeromedical transfer flights).
1.4.1 Staff Wellness
If a border worker develops any COVID-19 symptoms they should:
• stop work as soon as they are aware they are becoming unwell
• advise their manager
• put a medical mask on (if they are not already wearing one)
• leave work and self-isolate and
• arrange to be tested for COVID-19.
All border workers should contact their healthcare provider or Healthline (0800 611 116) for further
advice and inform their PCBU (if applicable). For more information refer to
https://covid19.govt.nz/health-and-wellbeing/covid-19/covid-19-symptoms/
In addition, border workers should:
• undertake hand hygiene frequently during the working day (as described under 1.3)
• use correct coughing and/or sneezing etiquette (as described under 1.4)
• maintain 2 metres physical distancing from others (as described under 1.5)
• wear appropriate PPE (as described in Section 2: Table of recommended COVID-19 PPE)
1.4.2 Provision of IPC and PPE education and training to border
workers
It is the responsibility of employers to ensure that all employees working at an airport are appropriately
trained and educated in the proper use of PPE. Employers should provide regular refresher training to
employees and advise of any changes to IPC or PPE guidance at the earliest possible opportunity after
the change takes effect. This guidance document may be used to complement any current training
materials already provided by employers to employees.
Hand hygiene
Hand hygiene is one of the most effective ways to minimise transmission of infectious diseases from
one person to another and to avoid contamination of surfaces. Hand hygiene is maintained by either
washing (with soap and water) and drying hands thoroughly or using the supplied alcohol-based
(containing 60-80% alcohol) hand sanitiser.
It is important that hand hygiene is performed in the following situations:
• before and after eating and drinking
• before and after other breaks
V1.2 | 18/05/2021 12• before and after using the toilet
• before putting on PPE
• after removal of individual items of PPE
• after disposal of PPE
• after undertaking cleaning activities
• after having any direct physical contact with a passenger, their belongings, or their environment i.e.
aircraft, passenger baggage or mobility aides (including wheelchairs, prams or other mobility
devices), touched surfaces and shared items.
1.6 Glove use
NOTE: Glove use is not a substitute for hand hygiene
Regular hand hygiene is recommended and preferable to glove use.
Inappropriate or incorrect use of gloves can increase risk of virus transmission. Staff should remove
their gloves safely and perform hand hygiene immediately (see Appendix 3: How to put on PPE safely
for more detail). In addition, the following should be noted:
• Rings, watches and jewellery should be kept at a minimum to enable good hand hygiene practices
and to prevent tears to gloves
• Workers should remove their gloves safely and perform hand hygiene immediately (see Appendix
3: How to put on PPE safely for more detail).
• Gloves, if used, should be changed between tasks to provide the most effective protection (see
Table 2: Table of recommended COVID-19 PPE).
• Alcohol hand rub should not be used on gloves and should not be used as a substitute for changing
gloves where required.
1.7 Coughing and sneezing etiquette
Border workers should remember to cough or sneeze into the crook of their elbow, or cover coughs and
sneezes with a tissue. Dispose of tissues into a general waste bin after use.
Perform hand hygiene after coughing or sneezing.
1.8 Physical distancing
1.8.1 Border workers
Border workers in red zone(s) should be aware of best practice IPC guidance for physical distancing (if
applicable).
V1.2 | 18/05/2021 131.8.2 Passengers
Passengers arriving in New Zealand on red flights/zone(s) must, where possible, maintain physical
distancing of 2 metres in accordance with the ABO4.
1.9 PPE
PPE is worn at the airport to protect border staff and passengers from potential exposure to infectious
individuals and as a means of source control if they themselves are infectious.
PPE items may include: a medical mask, P2/N95 particulate respirator, long sleeved fluid resistant
gown, plastic apron, gloves and eye protection5. The PPE a border worker wears depends on the
interaction the worker is having at the airport or the activity they are undertaking.
NOTE: PCBUs have extensive legal duties under the
Health and Safety at Work Act in relation to worker
PPE.
More information can be found on the WorkSafe website here:
https://www.worksafe.govt.nz/topic-and-industry/personal-protective-equipment-
ppe/personal-protective-equipment-a-guide-for-businesses/
1.9.1 Guidance for PPE for working in the red zone
Additional information about how to use PPE is provided in this document (see Appendix 1: How to put
on PPE (including medical masks) and gloves safely).
It is important to note that any:
• border workers required to wear a P2/N95 particulate respirator must have undergone fit testing
and, be trained in fit checking.
• PPE recommended by this guidance should be considered the minimum requirement for protection
against COVID-19 and should not replace the wearing of any other PPE that is required for usual
business activities e.g. chemical use.
1.9.2 Medical masks
A well-fitting medical mask6 should fit snugly on the face and fully cover the nose and mouth. It is
important that medical masks are put on, worn, removed and disposed of correctly as per Appendix 2:
4
COVID-19 Public Health Response (Air Border) Order (No 2) 2020
https://www.legislation.govt.nz/regulation/public/2020/0239/latest/whole.html#LMS403374
5
Prescription glasses are not classed as protective eye wear.
6
Medical masks are not reusable and must comply with EN14683 Type IIR or international equivalent.
V1.2 | 18/05/2021 14How to wear a mask safely and Appendix 3: How to put on PPE safely. Medical masks should not be
folded and placed in pockets for re-use, as these are deemed to be single use masks.
1.9.3 Non-medical /reusable fabric masks
Non-medical, reusable fabric face masks are used as protective masks. They are not subject to the
same set of standards as medical masks and are not regulated in any way.
Where is it deemed appropriate for border workers to wear non-medical masks, they should be
instructed on how and be provided with a means to store used masks until they can be laundered.
Aircrew and border workers should have an adequate number of masks to enable changes to occur
during a flight or shift as necessary. Masks should be changed every 3 hours or when damp. Hand
hygiene measures should be performed before and after touching non-medical masks.
Border workers should be provided with instruction on laundering and drying reusable masks, in line
with the manufacturer’s recommendations.
1.9.4 Passenger medical mask use
Passengers arriving in New Zealand on a red flight(s) and while they are in a red zone at the airport
must wear a medical mask unless exempted7. This applies during disembarkation from the aircraft and
for the duration of their time at the airport.
There are some situations where passengers are exempt from wearing a medical mask. This includes
(but is not limited to):
• passengers who have a medical condition preventing them from wearing a medical mask
• temporary pausing use e.g. a person who is eating or drinking, or needing to communicate with a
person who is deaf or hard of hearing
• the person is a child younger than 12 years of age (note it is recommended that face coverings not
be worn by children less than 6 years of age because of safety concerns) and parents or care givers
should be encouraged to help children to perform hand hygiene before putting on a face covering
(if they decide to use one).
Medical masks should be made available to any passenger who may require one along with the ability
for passengers to perform hand hygiene as outlined in Section 1.2: Good Practice IPC above.
Information on the correct procedures for putting on, taking off and disposing of masks or face coverings
should be displayed at appropriate locations around the airport. Instructions as well as means of
performing hand hygiene (e.g. hand sanitiser) should be provided at appropriate locations. Printouts of
these materials should be made available for passengers. (See appendices).
7
Clause 8B COVID-19 Public Health Response (Air Border) Order (No 2) 2020
V1.2 | 18/05/2021 151.9.5 P2/N95 particulate respirators In situations where there is poor ventilation or the interaction takes place at close contact in a crowded closed space, border workers may be exposed to short range infectious respiratory particles. As such, the use of a P2/N95 particulate respirator may be indicated in such situations. Please refer to Section 2: Table of recommended COVID-19 PPE. 1.10 Routine testing for COVID-19 border workers The COVID-19 Public Health Response (Required Testing) Order 2020 requires routine COVID-19 testing of specified border workers at airports. PCBUs must comply with their legal obligations under this Order. They must make sure their workers are properly advised about how to access a test and how often they must have a test done8. Border workers at airports that only receive green flights, such as Queenstown International Airport and Wellington International Airport, are not subject to regular mandatory testing requirements. 1.11 Vaccination As part of New Zealand’s ongoing work to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in New Zealand, the COVID- 19 Public Health Response (Vaccinations) Order 2021 requires that all people working in MIQ settings be vaccinated against COVID-19. The Order also requires all government officials to be vaccinated before working in other high-risk border settings. 8 COVID-19 Public Health Response (Required Testing) Order 2020 https://www.legislation.govt.nz/regulation/public/2020/0230/latest/whole.html#LMS400347 V1.2 | 18/05/2021 16
2 Table of recommended COVID-
19 PPE
Border workers should be familiar with and understand how to safely put on, take-off and dispose of
PPE. They also need to ensure that any other PPE they are instructed by their PCBU to wear to
minimise other risks arising from their work (e.g. chemicals) is worn.
2.1 Red zone PPE requirements
Setting Use of PPE and additional IPC
Who Activity (what) (where): red measures
zone(s)
Airport cleaning When cleaning Red zone/flight • Medical mask
staff airport areas used by • Appropriate gloves and any other
international arriving No protective items recommended
or transiting passengers by the manufacturer of the
passengers present cleaning products
• Perform hand hygiene before
and after removal of PPE and/or
on entry or exit from staff-only
areas
Passengers and When disembarking Red zone/flight • Medical mask
aircrew the aircraft • Hand hygiene
Arrival • Maintain physical distancing of at
pathway least 2 metres
through
airport:
Arrivals area
Border workers Routine tasks Red zone/flight • Medical mask
• Hand hygiene
Arrival • Maintain physical distancing of
pathway and at least 2 metres
throughout the
airport
Health staff When undertaking Red zone/flight • P2/N95 particulate respirator
Stage 1 health and eye protection9.
checks • Hand hygiene
• Maintain physical distancing as
much as possible
9
In situations where there is poor ventilation or the interaction takes place at close contact in a crowded closed space, border
workers may be exposed to short range infectious respiratory particles. As such, the use of a P2/N95 particulate respirator may
be indicated in such situations.
V1.2 | 18/05/2021 17Health staff When undertaking Red zone/flight • P2/N95 particulate respirator7,
Stage 2 health eye protection, long sleeved
fluid resistant gown and gloves
• Hand hygiene
• Maintain physical distancing as
much as possible
Passport control Routine tasks Red zone/flight • Medical mask, eye protection
staff • Hand Hygiene
If gloves are used, it is suggested
that these be changed between
flight cohorts and hand hygiene be
performed before putting on and
after removing gloves.
MPI, Customs, Undertaking routine Red zone/flight • Medical mask, eye protection
Police, Aviation border control • Hand hygiene
Security and other measures • Maintain physical distancing of
approved agency at least 2 metres
staff
Staff should also follow other
approved or established PCBU
COVID-19 protocols/Health and
Safety PPE appropriate to their
specific role.
Customs Routine tasks Red zone/flight • Medical mask,
/designated staff • Eye protection,
i.e. conducting Border control • Hand hygiene,
personal search (e.g. baggage • Maintain physical distancing as
pat down) or bag search area much as possible
searches (e.g. where
luggage is opened Staff should also follow other
and inspected) approved or established PCBU
COVID-19 protocols/Health and
Safety PPE appropriate to their
specific role.
Customs Routine tasks Red zone/flight • P2/N95 particulate respirator7,
officers/designated • Eye protection,
staff i.e. conducting Designated • Long sleeve fluid resistant
Personal search (e.g. room, gown,
strip search) enclosed • Gloves.
space
Staff should also follow other
approved or established PCBU
COVID-19 protocols/Health and
Safety PPE appropriate to their
specific role.
Ground staff – Routine tasks Red zone/flight No specific PPE required for
baggage/cargo COVID-19 protection.
handlers Outside
Hand hygiene.
Staff should also follow other
approved or established PCBU
COVID-19 protocols/Health and
V1.2 | 18/05/2021 18Safety PPE appropriate to their
specific role.
Ground staff: Routine tasks Red • P2/N95 particulate respirator7
Aircraft cleaning zone/flights or a medical mask,
staff i.e. food services, • Eye protection,
used linen and waste No • Gloves,
removal, cabin passengers • Protective coveralls.
engineering etc. • Hand hygiene.
Aircraft
including Risk assessment including if
galley kitchen environmental controls such as
passenger
aircraft air handling systems used
cabin
and time between passenger
disembarking to ground crew
entering aircraft will assist to
determine level of PPE required, in
addition to what the employer
PCBU expectations are.
Red • P2/N95 particulate respirator7,
Staff assisting or Routine tasks
zone/flights gloves, eye protection, long
needing to escort
i.e. in wheelchair or sleeved gown
passengers from Aircraft
buggy cart)
aircraft to airside or passenger • Hand hygiene.
landside cabin
• Maintain physical distancing as
much as possible.
Red zone/flight • Medical mask, gloves, eye
Staff escorting Routine tasks
protection,
passengers to
MIQF waiting area
• Hand hygiene.
for transport to
MIQF • Maintain physical distancing of
at least 2 metres.
V1.2 | 18/05/2021 192.2 Moving between red and green zones
Workers may move across red and green zones as long as they strictly follow the guidance below:
• PPE guidance and IPC measures as outlined within the guidance document for the zone that
they are entering/working in at that time.
• Before exiting a red or green work zone, border workers should completely change the PPE
they are wearing and dispose of this in adherence to Appendix 3: How to put on PPE safely in
bins provided at the boundary between the red/green zone.
• They should then don/put on the PPE required for the zone they are entering and perform hand
hygiene again before entering the new zone.
Ideally, border workers should not move across both zones during any one shift, however where this is
not possible, the guidance above should be followed.
Please note that employers have a broad duty to ensure the health and safety of their employees under
s36 of the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015. Accordingly, when updated guidance is provided, it is
the responsibility of the employer to ensure it is effectively communicated to employees and
implemented in the workplace.
V1.2 | 18/05/2021 203 Cleaning
Environmental cleaning is essential to reduce the risk of transmitting COVID-19. High touch areas and
hard surfaces can be contaminated with infectious respiratory droplets. Hands can become
contaminated after contact with these surfaces.
Airports should have cleaning schedules for common areas and document the date and time cleaning
was undertaken.
The COVID-19 virus is susceptible to standard cleaning and disinfection methods. Regular and
thorough cleaning with approved detergent/disinfectant that is effective against SARS-CoV-2(COVID-
19 virus) is recommended.
It is recommended that wherever practical and reasonable, equipment such as public wheelchairs,
trolleys should be dedicated to each zone. If they are moved between zones, then where the
responsibility for cleaning of the shared equipment sits should be clearly defined.
3.1 Basic principles of cleaning and disinfection
The basic principles of cleaning and disinfection should be followed, and these are outlined below:
• Cleaning is necessary to remove contamination (or ‘soil’) from surfaces before the use of
disinfectants, unless a combined detergent/disinfectant product is used. If soil is not removed first,
it can reduce the ability of disinfectants to kill pathogens (bacteria and viruses).
• Employers are responsible for ensuring workers undertaking cleaning are trained in the correct
usage of PPE and cleaning processes. Further guidance can be found on the
www.health.govt.nz/our-work/diseases-and-conditions/covid-19-novel-coronavirus/covid-19-
information-specific-audiences/covid-19-general-cleaning-and-disinfection-advice/covid-19-
cleaning-frequently-asked-questions
• Physical cleaning (i.e. brisk rubbing over a surface) using a detergent and water solution and/or
disinfectants removes soil from surfaces.
• Whilst all surfaces should be cleaned, high touch surfaces should be prioritised, regardless of when
they were last cleaned or are next scheduled to be cleaned.
• Cleaning should start with the least soiled (cleanest) to most soiled (dirtiest) areas, and from higher
to lower levels in a systematic manner to avoid missing any areas.
• Clean all ‘high-touch’ surfaces such as seats, desks, counters, cupboards, tabletops, light switches,
door handles, and telephones. See specific ‘high touch area’ information at Section 3.1.1: Cleaning
of high-touch surfaces (counter tops, handrails etc.).
• Spot-clean any marks on soft furnishings.
• Clean toilets. See specific ‘bathroom’ information at Section 3.1.2: Cleaning of toilets/bathrooms.
• Vacuum the carpet with a HEPA-filtered vacuum cleaner.
V1.2 | 18/05/2021 21• For hard floor surfaces, clean the floor starting from one end of the premises to another (from the
far side of the room working your way to the exit/door).
• At the end of cleaning, remove all PPE (see Appendix 3: How to put on PPE safely) and place in a
lined container before disposing of it with other general waste. The border worker should wash their
hands (or use hand sanitiser) immediately after handling these items.
• Follow routine airport practices for disposal of waste/ rubbish and see Section 4.1: Waste
management – red zones for information on waste management. The border worker should wash
their hands (or use hand sanitiser) immediately after handling these items.
• Border workers need to follow any workplace protocols as required during standard operations.
• Cleaning practices and cleanliness of the airport environment should be routinely monitored and
audited by employers with feedback given to workers as a means of maintaining and reinforcing
good practice.
• A cleaning schedule should be maintained that documents date and time of when cleaning
occurred, as should an auditing or assurance document that identifies any concerns that have been
raised with workers.
3.1.1 Cleaning of high-touch surfaces (counter tops, handrails etc.)
High touch surfaces can be contaminated directly by infectious respiratory particles settling on them or
indirectly by hands and other items contaminated with respiratory particles coming into contact with and
transferring the particles onto the surface High touch surfaces should be prioritised when cleaning,
ensure that:
• handles of baggage trolleys, public use wheelchairs and electric transfer vehicles are included in
the cleaning process and
• passenger processing stations and eGates (as applicable) are cleaned between red flights.
For further information on cleaning and disinfecting refer to: www.health.govt.nz/covid-19-cleaning-
faqs.
3.1.2 Cleaning of toilets/bathrooms
Dedicated red zone bathrooms should be cleaned and disinfected after each red zone/flight passenger
group, unless there is a toileting accident in the bathroom, in which case, it will need to be cleaned
immediately before the next occupant. Bathroom cleaning should include the following:
• carry out regular and thorough cleaning with approved detergent/disinfectant that is effective
against SARS-CoV-2.
• dispensers for bathroom supplies (soap, toilet paper, disposable hand towels) are cleaned regularly
and topped up as needed.
V1.2 | 18/05/2021 223.2 Cleaning products Manual cleaning is necessary to remove surface soil before the use of disinfectants unless a ‘2 in 1’ product containing detergent is used. Regular and thorough cleaning with approved detergent/disinfectant that is effective against SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19 virus) is recommended. All cleaning products should be used in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions including additional PPE requirements. If using products that can be used for both cleaning and disinfecting, make sure that the instructions on the label are followed to ensure they work effectively and ensure that the product is also approved for use on any sensitive equipment. 3.3 Cleaning process Cleaning of any red zone areas can begin immediately after the last passenger has cleared the arrival gate lounge. Any border workers needing to pass through red zone terminal areas, should wear appropriate PPE and avoid touching hard surfaces unless necessary. Refer to instructions on this in Section 2: Table of recommended COVID-19 PPE. Standard operating procedures for cleaning should be provided and followed. It should include clear instructions on cleaning responsibilities, products to be used, and systematic cleaning processes to ensure no areas are missed. When cleaning tasks are completed, staff should carefully remove PPE on exiting the area (e.g. after cleaning the aircraft and before moving on to the next area or aircraft) and immediately wash their hands with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser (Appendix 3: How to put on PPE safely). Border agencies should ensure cleaning of any agency-controlled areas and equipment not included in the standard airport cleaning process. 3.4 Aircraft cleaning processes Cleaning staff should follow the airline company policy for cleaning and disinfection of aircraft for red flights. 3.4.1 International and domestic flights – general information The aircraft is to be empty of people before cleaning starts. It is recommended that air conditioning systems remain on after landing, during disembarkation and before and during aircraft workers enter and work on a red zone aircraft. Additionally, it is recommended that that each plane has a complete air change prior to cleaning, as dependant on each aircraft ventilation system. It is also recommended that these ventilation requirements are incorporated into the standard operating procedures for every aircraft. V1.2 | 18/05/2021 23
Cleaners should perform hand hygiene before putting on the appropriate PPE according to the task.
Additionally, cleaners should wear any other protective items recommended by the manufacturer of the
cleaning products and as required by PCBU processes.
The following items should be cleaned using an approved cleaning and disinfectant product:
• all flat surfaces that the passengers were in contact with (i.e. seats)
• all touched surfaces located within the passengers seating zone:
• handles and trays
• seatbelts and seatbelt fasteners
• compartment bars, overhead lockers, bulkheads
• seats (including back of seat)
• emergency cards
• headsets should be collected and reprocessed in line with current cleaning guidance for multi-
use items.
Electronic devices should be cleaned and disinfected as per manufacturer’s recommendations for the
device.
After aircraft cleaning is complete and before moving on to the next aircraft, dispose of cleaning wipes,
medical masks and gloves in appropriate manner. Perform hand hygiene after removing gloves and
medical mask.
3.4.2 Aircraft bathrooms
Passengers should be reminded to perform hand hygiene and maintain physical distancing of 2 metres
from others where practicable on red flights, including when waiting to use bathroom facilities.
Bathrooms should be cleaned with appropriate cleaning and disinfectant products.
Cleaning and disinfection of bathrooms should be undertaken on a regular scheduled basis, observing
times when higher usage may occur i.e. after meals, and as necessary if there is a toileting accident in
the bathroom, in which case it will need to be cleaned before the next occupant.
3.4.3 Cleaning protocols
Those undertaking cleaning duties, should wear gloves, medical mask and any other protective items
recommended by the manufacturer of the cleaning products, in alignment with PCBU policies.
All touched surfaces including (but not limited to): door handles (inside and outside), taps, toilet seat lid
and any other item that is frequently touched should be wiped with approved cleaning and disinfecting
product in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions.
V1.2 | 18/05/2021 24Dispose of cleaning wipes and gloves in appropriate manner. Perform hand hygiene after removing
gloves. Don new gloves before undertaking the next task.
3.5 Laundry
Laundry transport, processing staff and service providers should be compliant with company policies
for the safe handling of linen and use of PPE based on AS/NZS 4146 Standards for Laundry Practice.
3.5.1 Principles for management of linen
Used linen should be:
• separated from clean linen in a way that minimises the risk of clean linen contamination.
• handled with care and not be shaken or handled vigorously.
• All used linen from red zone flights should be treated as potentially contaminated until washed and
processed/disposed of.
3.5.2 External laundry/linen providers collection and drop off of
airport linen
The following guidelines should be followed when external laundry/linen providers are collecting or
dropping off airport linen:
• Airlines are encouraged to have aircrew/passengers contain and bag used linen to assist ground
staff prior to arrival.
• Designated staff collecting and handling used linen within cabins and at the receiving laundry facility
should wear medical masks or P2/N95 particulate respirators, protective coveralls/gown, eye
protection, and gloves or in alignment with laundry providers’ PCBU.
• Used linen from aircraft should be collected and carefully placed in plastic bags and secured closed
in the passenger cabin prior to transport. Linen bags should be no more than ¾ full.
• PPE should be removed and placed in appropriate bins.
• Hands are cleaned using soap and water or hand sanitiser after PPE is removed.
• Any linen not in the original packaging should be considered used and laundered again before use.
• Linen that is soiled from blood and other body fluids should be separated and processed according
to laundry providers’ policies and procedures.
• Used linen is collected from aircraft into containers/cages to minimise spill and transported to
laundry services by designated staff wearing PPE.
• Trucks and cages used for used linen/waste transfer should be cleaned thoroughly prior to
transporting clean linen or supplies.
• Clean linen is bagged, or plastic wrapped for return to the aircraft. If not bagged, linen cages should
be covered while being transported and until unpacked at the destination.
V1.2 | 18/05/2021 25• Laundry workers wearing PPE as per company procedures and including medical mask or P2/N95
particulate respirator10, should transfer used linen into machines with minimal shaking or handling.
• Plastic linen bags should be placed in waste bins. Reusable bags should be washed prior to being
used for clean linen.
• PPE should be changed, and hands washed or hand sanitiser used, before staff move from the
dirty to the clean areas of the laundry.
10
MoH recommends that P2/N95 particulate respirators be used in spaces with poor ventilation, e.g. inside aircraft cabin, however
if there is sufficient airflow and air conditioning systems are functioning, a medical mask may be utilised provided it is donned
and worn in compliance with recommended procedures.
V1.2 | 18/05/2021 264 Waste Management, IPC
signage and Miscellaneous items
4.1 Waste management - red zones
Appropriate handling and management of waste at the border is a key factor in preventing the spread
of COVID-19.
Waste from international flights should be bagged, tied closed to prevent spillage and transported to an
appropriate MPI international waste disposal facility.
Workers should wear gloves and other PPE appropriate for the level of contact with waste, when
collecting and/or disposing of waste. Refer to Section 2: Table of recommended COVID-19 PPE for
PPE guidance.
A regular schedule should be in place to manage the removal of waste from areas.
General waste generated during air border operation is not classified as medical waste; however, the
following principles for waste handling and management are recommended:
• communal bins (i.e., in corridor spaces) should have hand sanitiser co-located next to the bin, to
enable good hand hygiene practices for those disposing of rubbish
• waste bins for shared use should not have lids, or if lids are present, should be of the pedal bin type
• rubbish bins should be emptied when ¾ full
• rubbish bins should be lined with a general plastic bin liner
• when handling rubbish, staff should wear disposable gloves as well as any other PPE as described
in company Standard Operating Procedures or aligned with any other health and safety requirement
• the liner should be tied/sealed before removal to general rubbish/waste collection point
• disposable gloves should be changed and disposed of after handling rubbish and hand hygiene
performed.
4.2 Displaying IPC information in arrival and departure areas
Information on COVID-19 such as posters or announcements reminding passengers of correct mask
use, frequent cleaning of hands, QR Code scanning and physical distancing should be posted
throughout the arrivals and departure areas. Approved COVID-19 signage and messaging should be
used.
Illustrations and posters should be at least A4 size and should be placed in readily visible positions.
Posters should be laminated for easy cleaning.
V1.2 | 18/05/2021 274.3 Soft goods and materials Soft materials such as leaflets and newspapers should be removed from the red zone arrival pathway; except for NZ Passenger Arrival Cards and COVID-19 health-related documentation. Agencies and airport companies often supply items that assist with border processing and the COVID- 19 response (e.g., pens and instructions for completing Arrival Cards). When selecting these items, special emphasis should be placed on their ability to be easily cleaned/disinfected – for example, posters should be laminated, printed on wipeable paper, or displayed behind glass or plastic that can be easily cleaned. V1.2 | 18/05/2021 28
5 On Boarding and at Arrival Airlines are asked to maintain an adequate supply of medical masks at check in or boarding (as appropriate) as well as onboard for all inbound international flights. Airlines are asked to make these available to passengers in the event that they are travelling without their own medical mask. 5.1 Offloading and escorting IPC should be maintained throughout the passenger offload and escorting process, including: • wearing a mask for red flight/zone(s) • maintaining 2 metre physical distancing. Ground staff escorting passengers should maintain physical distancing and refrain from carrying passenger’s personal items where possible. If pushing a wheelchair, ground staff should wear the appropriate PPE dependent on the degree of assistance required and for the duration of the escort refer to Section 2: Table of recommended COVID-19 PPE for PPE guidance. Unless it is deemed unsafe to leave the passenger alone, escorting staff should not travel in lifts with passengers. V1.2 | 18/05/2021 29
6 Arrival pathway
6.1 Passengers
Passengers arriving on a red zone/flight(s) must wear a medical mask and maintain physical distancing
wherever possible throughout their time at the airport, including during baggage collection.
6.2 Waiting areas
Waiting areas include international and domestic transit areas, departure and arrival areas. Passengers
are required to follow public health measures when in New Zealand in accordance with current alert
levels.
Airports should display visual reminders for passengers to maintain physical distancing of 2 metres from
others not in their “travel bubble” as required for red zones in accordance with the ABO.
6.3 Health pre-screening/screening
A two-stage health screening system is in place for all passengers entering New Zealand on a red zone
flight:
Stage One: Arrivals undergo temperature checks and are asked if they have COVID-19 symptoms, and
if they have had contact with a confirmed COVID case.
Stage Two: Those that have a temperature greater than 38°C and/or report COVID-19 symptoms then
undergo a second, more comprehensive assessment by the border health team.
For both stages of the health screen for all Health staff, the following PPE should be worn:
• P2/N95 particulate respirator.
• eye protection (goggles or face shield).
In addition, for Stage Two:
• Long sleeve fluid resistant gown and gloves (if used as part of normal agency procedure, e.g. when
further assessing a passenger experiencing COVID-19 symptoms and/or has a temperature
reading greater than 38°C).
Regular hand hygiene should be performed before and after passenger assessments, and before and
after donning or doffing PPE.
Please note that these requirements are not required for those who are departing from a New Zealand
airport.
V1.2 | 18/05/2021 306.4 Urgent medical care required
Passengers who present at the border who are in urgent need of medical care are to be transferred
directly to hospital following airport procedures for managing unwell travellers. The airport incident
control room will coordinate any ambulance response as requested.
The Emergency Operator should be informed of the following:
• patient condition;
• current test and symptom status; and
• potential risk of COVID-19.
The RIQCC/RIQCC Health Lead should be informed of any passenger medical emergencies (as
applicable).
If applicable, the receiving Hospital Duty Nurse Manager/Emergency Department should be informed
of the incoming passenger by the Border Health Lead.
Support persons are not to accompany any urgent medical transfers without authorisation of the RIQCC
Health Lead and a MOoH IPC lead.
6.5 Passport control (including manual processing)
At passport control, passengers must remove their medical mask to enable a face-to-passport or
biometric check to be conducted11. Passengers should be provided with a means of performing hand
hygiene prior to removal and refitting their mask. The following process should be followed:
• passenger arrives at passport control
• passenger must continue to maintain physical distancing of 2 metres physical distancing for red
zone(s) to the greatest extent practicable12
• passenger should perform hand hygiene before removing their mask for identification purposes
• when identification has concluded, passenger must refit their mask and should perform hand
hygiene9
• passenger should perform hand hygiene before and after each time they touch their face mask
• spare medical masks should be made available for any passenger that may require one. Pictorial
representation of mask removal and re-fitting procedure should be displayed at passport control
(Appendix 2: How to wear a mask safely).
11
Immigration Instructions published under section 25 of the Immigration Act 2009
https://www.immigration.govt.nz/opsmanual/#42663.htm
12
COVID-19 Public Health Response (Air Border) Order (No 2) 2020
https://www.legislation.govt.nz/regulation/public/2020/0239/latest/whole.html#LMS403375
V1.2 | 18/05/2021 316.6 Luggage Handling and Collection 6.6.1 Baggage handlers at the airport For baggage handlers working in areas that are not accessible to international arriving or transiting passengers, who are unloading baggage from an aircraft to be transferred trolley to a carousel, PPE should be worn as normal, aligned with health and safety protocols. Baggage-related workers who need to assist international arriving and transiting passengers from red zone/flights should refer to table 2 for PPE requirements. V1.2 | 18/05/2021 32
How to use PPE
(including medical masks) and
gloves safely
It is important that masks are put on, worn, removed and disposed of correctly. Masks should fit snugly
and fully cover the nose and mouth.
Pictorial representations are also provided for putting on and removing medical masks (Appendices 2
and 3).
1.1. General principles for safe use of medical masks
• Always perform hand hygiene before putting on a mask, after removing a mask and disposing of it.
• Do not touch the front of your mask, your face, or rub your eyes while wearing a mask.
• Do not re-use single-use masks. Dispose of them immediately after removing.
• Replace the mask every 4 hours or earlier if it becomes damp, damaged or soiled.
• Some people are exempt from wearing masks, including people who have medical conditions that
prevent them from doing so, children under 12 years of age or anyone unable to remove them
without assistance.13
• Please refer to The COVID-19 website at https://covid19.govt.nz/health-and-wellbeing/protect-
yourself-and-others/wear-a-face-covering/ for details on exemptions.
1.2. How to put on a mask
• Clean your hands with soap and water or use hand sanitiser (containing at least 60 percent alcohol).
Ensure your hands are dry before touching the mask.
• Check there are no obvious tears or holes in either side of the mask.
• Place the mask over your nose and mouth and secure with ties or ear loops.
• For masks with ties – bring the mask to your nose level and place the top ties over the crown of
your head and secure with a bow. Once you have made sure that the mask fits snugly, molded to
your face and around your nose, fully covering your nose mouth and chin then take the bottom ties,
one in each hand, and secure with a bow at the nape of your neck.
• For mask with loops – ensure these do not cross over as this widens the gap between the face and
the mask.
13
Although children under 12 years of age are exempt from wearing a face mask, their parent or care giver may have provided
them with a face covering to wear and they should be allowed to do so Face coverings should not be worn by children less than
2 years of age because of safety concerns. Parents or care givers should be encouraged to assist children to perform hand
hygiene.
.
V1.2 | 18/05/2021 33• Make sure the mask fits snugly, molded to your face and around your nose. Make sure the mask
fully covers your nose, mouth and chin. Your mask should be comfortable, with no gaps around the
mask and your face, and allow you to breathe easily.
• Always perform hand hygiene before putting on and after removing a mask.
• Ensure you know how to put on and remove your mask safely.
1.3. While wearing a mask
Do not touch the front of the mask. If you do, clean your hands with soap and water or use hand sanitiser
(containing at least 60 percent alcohol). Ensure your hands are dry.
Avoid touching your face, as infection can still be introduced by touching your eyes, mouth or nose, or
if you are not wearing your mask correctly.
Masks should not be moved or adjusted during use. This includes being pulled up or pulled down below
your chin. If you need to remove your mask - remove it safely (as below), dispose of it appropriately
and clean your hands.
Replace the mask every 4 hours or earlier if it becomes damp, damaged or soiled.
1.4. How to remove a mask and dispose of it safely
Use hand sanitiser (containing at least 60 percent alcohol) or clean your hands with soap and water.
Ensure your hands are dry. Any worker who is required to wear an P2/N95 respirator should have
undertaken the requisite fit testing and be trained in fit checking.
For further information on safe use of face masks, please refer to : www.health.govt.nz/our-
work/diseases-and-conditions/covid-19-novel-coronavirus/covid-19-health-advice-general-
public/covid-19-use-face-masks-community/covid-19-how-use-face-mask-safely
1.5. Glove use if required (for example when conducting personal
or baggage searches)
• Please follow normal agency procedure for use of gloves.
• Gloves if used, should be disposable (e.g. vinyl, latex and nitrile).
• Choose the right size glove, check for tears or holes.
• Always perform hand hygiene before putting on gloves. Once you have completed the task, remove
gloves using the correct technique, and dispose into designated bin, and perform hand hygiene.
• Gloves (if used) should be changed between each passenger when having direct contact with the
passenger or their luggage.
• Avoid touching your face, mouth, nose or eyes when wearing gloves.
For further information on hand hygiene and safe use of PPE refer to www.health.govt.nz/ppe-
workers#ppeinfo.
V1.2 | 18/05/2021 34You can also read
