Health Protection Agency (HPA) has stated smoking will be prohibited in cafés and restaurants upon reopening.
The guideline published by HPA on resuming services of cafés and restaurants following the COVID-19 pandemic states any type of smoking, including cigarettes, electronic cigarettes and shisha, will be prohibited inside the facility. HPA said the decision to prohibit smoking in cafés and restaurants was made to reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission in such places.
The guideline further states food outlets are required to prepare a workflow schedule upon resuming services under the new normal conditions. The schedule must ensure staff can work inside the café or restaurant while maintaining a distance of 3 feet between each other. Furthermore, safety instructions and procedures are required to be displayed in a location visible for customers.
The guideline issued by HPA also includes the procedure to be followed in storing and transporting food items, and the personal safety measures which must be practiced by employees and customers to reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission. It also includes instructions on dealing with an employee who falls sick.
Dine-in services in cafés and restaurants in the Greater Male’ Region have been suspended since March due to the COVID-19 pandemic.