Restaurants To Reopen on 5th Oct – Here are Guidelines

On September 30, long-awaited Standard Operating Protocols (SOPs) was issued for restaurants and bars across Mumbai and the state, other than in Containment Zones.

Under the programme called ‘Mission Begin Again’, the Directorate of Tourism (Maharashtra Government) announced, that from October 5 hotels, food courts, restaurants and bars would be allowed to operate with a 50 per cent capacity. On Saturday, issued Standard Operating Protocols (SOPs)

Bars and restaurants have to follow the protocols strictly under the following guidelines:

• Social distancing must be followed while waiting for or offering a service. In order to prevent interaction between customers and cashiers/front of house staff, bars and restaurants have been advised to consider using physical barriers such as plexiglass screens, especially at counters where interactions with customers frequently occur.

• Only asymptotic customers shall be allowed. People with a temperature over 38.0 C (100.4 F) and/or flu-like symptoms shall not be permitted inside the premises. However, the service provider should record their contact details and “be empathetic towards such visitors while advising to return. Guests are encouraged to make prior reservations before going to the restaurant to avoid crowding.

• The layout of bars and restaurants must allow or a minimum of one metre distance between tables.

• Disposable menus to be used, to reduce chances of transference of virus. Contactless menus via using QR code that can be scanned, recommended.

• Buffet service is not permitted. Valet service, if available, will have to be done with staff wearing face covers/masks and gloves as appropriate.

• As part of its protocol for staff, training programmes will have to be conducted by bars and restaurants to reinforce appropriate social distancing, cleaning, disinfection, and hygiene procedures.

• All glassware to be cleaned with hot water and lemon.

• As part of bar safety measures, the bar counter and stools will have to be sanitised properly and seating should be done ensuring social distancing norms.

• If a staff member reports show any health complaints relating to the respiratory issue, it shouldn’t be ignored and necessary measures to be taken immediately stop work and seek medical assistance. Staff who report from home that they are ill with respiratory symptoms should be advised to stay at home and seek medical attention. Staff who report that they have been diagnosed with COVID-19 should inform the administrative/health authorities, and if any COVID-19 positive workers are identified, the entire premises should be sanitized.

• CCTVC cameras at the accommodation unit must be fully functional.