Returning to malls, hotels and restaurants is finally set to happen.

Chennai:

Last Thursday, the Health Ministry released standard operating procedures (SOP) consisting of many generic steps, including simple public health measures that are to be adhered to

Rules to be followed

Physical distancing of at least 6 feet to be followed as far as feasible
Use of face covers/masks mandatory Practice frequent hand washing with soap (for at least 40-60 seconds) even when hands are not visibly dirty
Respiratory etiquettes to be followed. This involves covering one’s mouth and nose while coughing/sneezing with a tissue/handkerchief/flexed elbow and disposing off used tissues properly
Self-monitoring by all and reporting any illness at earliest to state/district helpline Spitting strictly prohibited
Installation and use of Aarogya Setu App advised to all

Restaurant protocols

Takeaways encouraged instead of dine-in. Delivery personnel to ensure contactless delivery, leaving packet at customer’s door
Home delivery staff to be screened thermally by restaurant authorities
Only asymptomatic staff and patrons shall be allowed
All staff and patrons to be allowed entry only if using face cover/masks, to be worn at all times inside the restaurant
Staggering of patrons to be done, if possible.
Seating arrangement to maintain adequate social distancing. In restaurants, not more than 50% of seating capacity to be permitted
Disposable menus advised for use; good quality disposable paper napkins instead of cloth napkins

People management

Number of people in elevators to be restricted, duly maintaining social distancing norms
Use of escalators with one person on alternate steps may be encouraged
Deep cleaning of all washrooms shall be ensured at regular intervals
Contactless mode of ordering and digital mode of payment (using e-wallets) to be encouraged
Tables to be sanitised each time customer leaves
In kitchen, staff to follow social distancing norms at work place. Kitchens area must be sanitised at regular intervals