Release date: 14 May 2021
West Sussex County Council is helping hospitality venues and other indoor venues to safely welcome back their customers next week when more Covid-19 restrictions will be eased.
We will move onto step three of the government’s roadmap from Monday, 17 May, when the following will be able to reopen:
- indoor entertainment venues such as cinemas
- children’s play areas
- hotels, hostels and B&Bs
- indoor adult group sports and exercise classes.
The government will also allow some larger performances and sporting events.
This is good news for businesses, which will be keen to welcome customers back indoors once more.
It is important that businesses continue to follow key guidance though to keep staff, customers and local communities safe from the ongoing risk of Covid-19.
We’ve produced this advice to help business owners and staff take the next step safely and work through the changes when they come into effect on 17 May.
Covid Risk Assessment checklist
To protect staff and customers, a Covid Risk Assessment should be completed. This allows you to consider the best ways to manage your business safely.
Checklist areas to think about include:
- managing a table service operation safely
- reducing risks such as contact points, toilet facilities and customer flows
- making the most of contactless payment methods
- ensuring customers log-in via the NHS Test & Trace App and displaying signs and the QR code on the premises
Further guidance can be found at www.hse.gov.uk/coronavirus
Hands-Face-Space remains in place
With the return of customers indoors, premises layouts will need to provide 2 metres distance between different groups of customers (rule of six remains indoors) or 1m plus (with barrier/screen). The distances apply to where customers sit, and not just the table itself.
Measures should also be taken to ensure employees and customers know where to wear a face mask.
Further guidance can be found on GOV.UK.
Ventilation
Ventilation is really important when customers return to indoor venues. Doors and windows should be kept open if possible, to allow a natural airflow through premises. If there is air conditioning, be aware of the risk of legionella.
More information on ventilation and air conditioning can be found at www.hse.gov.uk
Further guidance
QR Codes
QR codes (and a paper-based system for those that don’t have a smartphone) are a legal requirement and must be displayed. The following link provides all the guidance needed to put in place and to create coronavirus NHS QR codes for venues.
Keeping staff safe
Employers have a responsibility for their staff. Details on testing and managing outbreaks are available at www.gov.uk/coronavirus/business-support
Looking to resume entertainment in businesses
The government has issued helpful advice on this, search for ‘Performing Arts’ at https://www.gov.uk/coronavirus
You can find more information about coronavirus on our website.
Join us on social media using the hashtag #KeepWestSussexSafe
