Sandwell pubs, bars and restaurants are being urged to keep their customers safe and limit the spread of Covid-19.
All Sandwell pubs and restaurants are being urged to:
• Record all customers’ details – so they can be contacted in case of an outbreak
• Ensure customers only socialise in groups of up to two households (including support bubbles) indoors and outdoors, or up to six people from different households when outdoors
• Encourage regular handwashing and good hygiene
• Notify the council’s public health team if two or more staff test positive for Covid-19.
Businesses are also being reminded that indoor performances, such as live music or comedy, are not currently permitted and that karaoke, loud recorded music and DJs should be avoided.
Any business found to be operating dangerously could be closed down under powers given to the council under the Coronavirus Act 2020.
Sandwell Council’s cabinet member for safer communities Councillor Jo Hadley said: “All Sandwell businesses need to act responsibly to limit the spread of Covid-19 and make sure their customers are safe.
“For licensed premises, there are still restrictions in place in respect to overcrowding and indoor entertainment.
“Pubs, bars and restaurant must make sure they are complying with their licensing conditions as well as the new guidance brought in to allow licensed premises to reopen safely.
“We want Sandwell businesses to ensure they are aware of the rules and to stick to them. If we find premises that aren’t operating safely, we do have powers available to close them down in conjunction with the police.”
Deputy Leader of Sandwell Council Councillor Maria Crompton said: “We operate joined up working across licensing, environmental health, trading standards, police and public health, aiming for an approach that starts with education and encouragement to secure good infection control measures and compliance.
“However, if premises do not comply we will consider formal action.
“It is the responsibility of a business or an employer to ensure all reasonable measures are taken to limit the risk of transmission of Covid-19.
“To ascertain whether all reasonable measures have been taken, any guidance issued by the government will be considered in determining compliance with Health & Safety legislation.”
More details for Sandwell pubs, bars and restaurants are available at www.sandwell.gov.uk/pubandrestaurantadvice and on the government website: www.gov.uk/coronavirus-business-reopening
Business owners can get in touch with the public health team to report two or more cases or if they need advice. Email PHCovid19_Enquiries@sandwell.gov.uk or call the Healthy Sandwell team on 0800 011 4656.