Islamabad: Under a set of guidelines issued by the Ministry of National Health Services regarding the resumption of businesses after the government announced ease in Covid-19 lockdown restrictions, restaurants and eateries across the country have been allowed to seat visitors at 50% capacity (for compliance with the social distancing stipulation of the said regulations), according to a news source published today (August 11).
Moreover, the guidelines make the thermal scanning of visitors and employees mandatory. In addition, the restaurant surfaces will also have to be disinfected on an hourly basis, and the menus are required to be either disposable or to be sanitised after being used.
Reportedly, these guidelines have been issued in line with specific health and safety concerns to control the coronavirus spread. For the consumers’ protection, the ministry has outlined safety protocols that include maintaining a social distance of 6 ft in the entryways, hallways or waiting areas of restaurants or eateries. Also, the dining groups have to encompass 10 or less members, who are required to maintain a 3 ft distance amongst themselves and a 6 ft distance from other people. The guidelines further stress that proper ventilation should be ensured at all times, and that the tables shouldn’t block any entrances, exits, and handicapped or pedestrian access to the premises.
Furthermore, employee health is also highlighted in these guidelines. The regulations call for employees to be made aware about the various precautions to be taken during the pandemic, and for them to be encouraged to adopt healthy practices. Also, it is mandated that the working equipment should be sanitized and unsafe food should be discarded, in addition to the proper hygiene maintenance of cooking areas and dining areas at all times.
Hazafa reveres the art of writing and has been turned into a property enthusiast by profession. Her daily survival kit includes; tea, coffee, keyboard and paperbacks.
