DPH reminds public that COVID-19 guidelines for restaurants are still enforced

Samantha Cook,
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NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JULY 12: A waiter walks past people sitting at an outdoor restaurant seating area as the city moves into Phase 3 of re-opening following restrictions imposed to curb the coronavirus pandemic on July 12, 2020 in New York City. Phase 3 is the third of four-phased stages designated by the state. (Photo by John Lamparski/Getty Images)

ALBANY, Ga. – As efforts to abate the pandemic continue and the approval of a vaccine nears, Southwest Health District reminds restaurant owners, employees, and customers that guidelines must still be followed to ensure the highest level of safety possible.  

Clay Poole, District Environmental Health Director, Southwest Health District 8-2, says his office most frequently hears complaints about food service employees not wearing masks. 

“Food service employees are only required to wear a mask if they are in direct contact with a patron in positions such as wait staff or in the drive-through,” says Poole. “They are not required to wear a mask if they are working in the back and not around patrons.”

In addition, because food service workers are considered essential under the Executive Order, current guidelines allow food service employees to continue to work after exposure to a COVID-19 positive patient as long as they wear a mask. But they must not work if they develop symptoms, adds Poole.

Restaurants are still required to operate with six feet between tables, which may limit compacity in the facility, he says. 

For the latest guidelines on operating food service establishments and other businesses, visit dph.georgia.gov.

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