COVID-19 Compliance for Restaurants in Houston
Many restaurants around the Houston area have temporarily closed for reasons related to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, as of June 29, restaurants are permitted to operate at 50 percent capacity for dine-in eating, as well as offer takeout and delivery services, so long as they adhere to strict guidelines. The following are some guidelines that all restaurant owners must follow. To discuss any specific legal concerns about your restaurant, contact a business lawyer in Houston right away.
- All employees must wear masks when six feet of social distancing is not possible
- Customer groups must be distanced by six feet both while eating and while waiting
- Hand sanitizer is provided upon entering the establishment
- Use single servings of condiments, disposable or online menus, and do not leave silverware on unoccupied tables
- Tables are limited to groups of ten people
- Make the payment process as contactless as possible
- All employees receive training on sanitization, mask-wearing, hand washing, and more
- Screen employees for possible symptoms and do not allow employees to work when they have certain symptoms or have been exposed to someone who is COVID-19 positive
- Regular disinfection of tables, chairs, restrooms, and other surfaces
If a restaurant is in operation and fails to comply with all relevant guidelines, health officials might order the restaurant to close or even impose fines. It is important for all restaurant owners to understand what full compliance entails and adhere to the guidelines to keep everyone healthy and safe, as well as to avoid penalties.
Consult with a Restaurant Business Lawyer in Houston
If you need legal guidance on any restaurant-related legal matters, whether they stem from Coronavirus or not, Houston business attorney Tim Sutherland is ready to assist you. Call 713.300.1946 or contact us online to schedule an appointment to discuss a possible case.