We answer your questions on BFI Southbank’s reopening

As BFI Southbank prepares to reopen, our head of customer experience Martin Laws answered your questions during a Q&A on our Instagram channel.

27 August 2020

Instagram Q&A on the reopening of BFI Southbank

Is it possible for couples to sit together in NFT2 and NFT3? Will groups have to socially distance from each other in seating?

Pairs of seats are only available in NFT1, all other screens are single seating. Group bookings will have to socially distance.

Does your air con have HEPA filters? How well ventilated will it be?

They are all fresh air and standard filtration (dust and larger particles). It’s uncommon to find HEPA filtration in cinemas.

How often are the seats and armrests cleaned?

All seats are cleaned between performances with an anti-viral liquid, which is also used by TfL.

How will you make sure people remain distanced in screenings? Will every other row be left empty?

We have removed seats in the auditoria in order to ensure social distancing.

Will you measure the temperature of people coming in?

We won’t require customers to take a temperature test.

Will there be any photo opportunities with safety measures?

Access to the building is limited and so there will be no photo opportunities.

Are all of the toilet facilities open?

Yes, although the capacity has been reduced in some to allow for social distancing.

Will we have to wear masks while watching a film? 

Customers are required to wear masks during screenings. Exemptions do apply, so please let us know.

Will there be receptacles for used masks?

Yes, there will be PPE bins located around the building and these will be disposed of appropriately.

Will the BFI Shop be open?

Not yet. The BFI Shop remains closed in venue, but we are still open online.

Originally published: 27 August 2020

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