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<p>We have now published (23 June) new guidance for pubs, restaurants, and bars. This
supports my Rt. Hon. Friend the Prime Minister’s announcement on 23 June for their
reopening from 4 July, provided they are COVID-secure. The guidance was developed
following consultation with representatives from the industry.</p><p> </p><p>The guidance
sets out various measures for these businesses to consider including calculating the
maximum number of customers they can provide services to in a socially distanced manner,
reconfiguring seating areas, setting up handwashing facilities, providing clear communications
about the rules indoors and outdoors, considering contactless payment methods, adjusting
working practices to minimise staff and customer contact, and using outdoor spaces
as much as possible.</p><p> </p><p>The guidance is non-statutory but does not change
existing obligations relating to health and safety, employment, or equalities. Employers
have a duty under UK law to protect the health and safety of their workers and other
people who might be affected by their business. This includes considering the risks
that COVID-19 represents.</p><p> </p><p>As is the case now, individual business owners
will be responsible for ensuring their customers adhere to social distancing guidelines
wherever possible.</p><p> </p><p>Depending on the business, the Health and Safety
Executive and local authorities enforce health and safety in these workplaces and
will monitor compliance including through inspections and following up on concerns
raised by individuals with them.</p><p><strong> </strong></p><p>They can take action
against any business who isn’t complying with their legal health and safety obligations,
including providing guidance and issuing enforcement notices to require them to take
the necessary action or taking further action, including fines, if they continue to
not comply.</p>
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