Efforts to restart the B.C. economy get underway in earnest Tuesday (May 19) as the province loosens restrictions on everything from restaurants to retailers.
As restaurants and pubs reopen to sit-down service, establishments serving food and liquor will not be permitted to allow more than 50% of their usual capacity.
Tables must be spaced two metres apart and are not allowed to exceed more than six patrons.
Government guidelines also require that “if practicable” restaurants will have to hang on to contact information of at least one diner at a table for 30 days in the event contact tracing becomes necessary.
Buffets are out of the question and typical menus will be replaced either by digital menu boards, chalkboards, online pre-ordering or one-time disposable menus.
Establishments are also being pushed to discourage cash and instead use tap payments.
The province requires all employers to develop a mandatory safety plan as they reopen their doors, including workplaces such as offices and salons.
British Columbians itching to shear their manes after two months will likely be facing backlogs.
Barriers are being set up in personal care businesses when physical distancing of two metres cannot be maintained between work stations for hairstylists, barbers, nail technicians and estheticians.
Big retailers such as Hudson’s Bay Co. (TSX:HBC) and Nordstrom also begin reopening this week throughout the province.
When shoppers step inside, they’ll likely spot physical barriers and hand sanitizer at the till.
Shoppers will also be asked to pack their own bags if they bring in a reusable bag.
Like restaurants, tap payment will be encouraged at stores.
Shelves may also appear somewhat barren at times as the province is advising retailers to only stock shelves during non-operating hours.
Stores are also being told not to hand out coupons or flyers.
For workers returning to the office after extended periods working from home will see occupancy limits posted on elevators.
Workplaces are being encouraged to stagger starting and closing times if it’s likely crowding will unfold at entrances and exits.
Offices are also being urged to create cohorts of workers who can work in the vicinity of others in their cohort but who do not interact with other cohorts.
In-person meetings are discouraged in favour of teleconferences or video meetings, while workers are being pushed to stay away from the lunchroom.
