UKH releases Covid-secure guidelines

Directional movement of customers, restricted contact with commodities and regular controls of outside spaces could all be part of hospitality’s ‘new normal’ come July.

In UK Hospitality’s draft Covid-secure guidelines and risk assessment document released yesterday (20 May), the trade body proposed a series of measures to support the reopening of businesses in a safe and secure manner.

Although businesses will be required to complete a site-by-site risk assessment, the template is intended to act as a blanket guideline for operators hoping to open in July.

For restaurants and casual dining, key protocols include individually wrapped condiments and sauces and cutlery offered to consumers by request or brought with food, not left on tables.

A planned table plan based on physical distancing guidelines will also be necessary and operators should limit customer contact with menus, trays and napkins, which should be replaced or cleaned after each use.

For pubs and bar businesses, the flow of both staff and customers are to be considered as part of the risk assessment.

For bar orders, customers are to be encouraged to keep the minimum safe distance from bar staff as well as from other customers by tape or signage, and other measures including the directional movement of customers from till to drink collection, or restrictions on customers remaining at the bar after they’ve ordered, are to be considered.

The guidance also advises that empty glasses are collected from tables by staff, whilst beer gardens and outside areas should be regularly patrolled to prevent customers forming large groups.

“UKH is working hard with our members and alongside other industry bodies to develop practical and effective guidelines to enable businesses to begin to reopen safely when the time is right,” said Kate Nicholls, UK Hospitality CEO.

“These are draft guidelines that have been shared with governments in England, Scotland and Wales, to help inform their thinking around re-opening. We hope that the guidelines will help businesses draw up their own plans based on their premises, ensuring that safety is at the forefront of operations when the right time comes to reopen.”