Community Health
1:51 pm by Annie Osenbaugh
Updated January 2022
NYC + Chicago
NYC: In alignment with city mandate, we will be requiring proof of at least one vaccination dose for all children ages 5 or older while children ages 12 and order will need to show proof of full vaccination. This new mandate is in effect for any staff, guests, or members of the BKB NYC community ages 5 and up. Chicago: Effective January 3, in accordance with the City of Chicago mandate, we will require proof of full vaccination for everyone ages 5 and up. For those 16 and up, it must also accompany government issued ID. This new mandate is in effect for any staff, guests, or members of the BKB Chicago community.
Our community is the most important part of BKB. That means keeping you healthy is our top priority. Below you’ll find the Community Health Standards we’ve put in place to do just that.
If you are experiencing any flu or cold-like symptoms, please stay home and return when you are well. BKB reserves the right to change our screening processes as required by the CDC or local regulation.
Deep Cleaning
Daily
All high-touch surfaces will be cleaned every two hours with each facility fully deep-cleaned daily. We will be using hospital grade disinfectants to ensure surfaces are thoroughly disinfected. Our locations are now equipped with electrostatic sprayers as well. This touchless electrostatic technology allows disinfectant to wrap around surfaces and objects, providing more effective coverage than traditional spray bottles, buckets, and rags.
Reservations no longer required
Occupancy
Reservations are no longer required at any BKB location. You can still view the occupancy tracker at each location to plan your visit.
What to Expect
Shirts, Shoes + Masks Required
Staff + community members are required to wear a mask* at all times within the facility. Bandanas, gaiters, and neck buffs are no longer considered acceptable face coverings. Shirt and shoes are also required.
*In keeping with CDC and local recommendations, masks are currently required in all locations regardless of vaccination status
Contactless Check-In
If you’ve saved your credit card information on your account, your check-ins will be contactless. Members with BKB swipe cards can also enjoy a contactless check-in. Need a swipe card? Ask the front desk on your next visit—protective shields have also been installed at the front desk for your protection.
Hand Sanitizing Stations
To keep our hands germ-free, we have stocked our facilities with hand sanitizer and sanitizing wipes for lockers and equipment. You’ll find the first sanitizing station located at the entrance, with additional stations throughout the facility.
Increased Cleaning
Facilities will operate on limited hours to allow more time for cleaning between days of operation.
Route, Floor + Flow Markings
To make it easy for all to abide by social distancing guidelines, you’ll find route, floor, and flow markings installed to indicate the appropriate places to climb and stand while maintaining 6 feet of distance between staff, guests, and members.
Locker Rooms are open
Locker rooms have been re-opened for use. You can still find open-air storage and lockers throughout the facility as well.
Liquid Chalk
Liquid chalk, made with at least 60% alcohol, has been found to be disinfecting and will be provided at no additional cost. If you would like to purchase your own, liquid chalk with 80% alcohol can be found in the retail sections of each facility. We’re currently not allowing loose chalk to be used in facilities.
How to Prepare
BYO Water + Gear
We encourage everyone to bring their own water or purchase a water bottle at the front desk rather than using water fountains.
Members and guests are encouraged to bring their own climbing shoes and harnesses but rentals are now available at all locations.
Credit Cards Only
To avoid passing germs through cash, we will only be accepting credit card payments. If you do not already have a credit card on file, you can store your information upon your first visit for touchless transactions going forward.
In Summary
Spread Love Not Germs:
Please no handshakes, high fives, hugs, fist bumps + interpersonal physical contact with our staff and others.
And please, as always, WASH YOUR HANDS.