RE-OPENING
WELCOME
BACK
Many operators in the UK’s pizza, pasta and Italian food sector have been relying on the delivery and takeaway aspects to their businesses, if they have them, to sustain them in recent times. Now, as the hospitality sector gets the green light to re-open by welcoming back its much-missed customers inside its premises for a sit-down service, we consider safe operation, consumer behaviour and confidence. RISK ASSESSMENTS AND STAFF CHECKS Before returning to work, operators will need to carry out a Covid-19 risk assessment both to ensure the safety of their staff and customers. This should also include checking that the premises are in a fit state to re-open (a templated checklist for re-opening premises can be found on the British Sandwich & Food To Go website at www.sandwich.org.uk). 22
Before allowing any staff to return to work it is essential to check that they have no symptoms of Coronavirus, and that they do not live in a household where someone has the virus. If there is any risk that they might have, or be a carrier of the virus, they should not be allowed to return. Any staff in the high-risk category – or living with others in who are similarly vulnerable - who should be shielded must not be allowed to work.
Managers should also remind staff daily of the need to report any changes in their circumstances that could affect their ability to work. IN THE KITCHEN There are already established practices operating in the delivery and takeaway sector for managing social distancing in kitchen environments. These vary according to the layout of the sites and July 2020
