Quiet please, no loud music while punters enjoy a pint with pals
PUB-GOERS will have to socialise quietly with music and sporting events on low volume under new rules to keep them safe when lockdown eases next month.
Venues will have to follow a raft of new rules if they want to reopen on July 4, including keeping the sound down so people do not have to shout to be heard.
The Government is keen for the public to make the most of its decision to roll back lockdown next month.
But hospitality and tourism firms will have to make significant changes if they want to throw open their doors.
Pubs, bars and restaurants must keep background music and sports events turned down low so diners and drinkers do not have to raise their voices.
Experts believe talking loudly increases the chance of spreading the disease.
“All venues should ensure that steps are taken to avoid people needing to unduly raise their voices to each other,” the guidance issued to businesses says.
“This includes, but is not limited to, refraining from playing music or broadcasts that may encourage shouting, including if played at a volume that makes normal conversation difficult.”
Landlords and restaurateurs will also be expected to take the names of customers and keep them on file for 21 days to allow them to be traced if there is an outbreak.
Queueing at the bar to order drinks or food is out, replaced by table service where one waiter serves the same customer throughout their visit.
The Government also wants mobile phone apps to be used to allow orders to be placed from the table. Staff will have to wear face coverings and encourage people to use hand sanitisers as well as introduce one-way systems at venues.
Condiments must be in sachets rather than bottles unless they can be cleaned after each use. And popular venues will need to organise queues outside if too many people turn up at the same time.
Hotel guests will be urged to wear face masks in communal corridors and trays will be left outside bedroom doors.
Caravan parks and campsites have been asked to set out clear guidance about using shared showers and toilets.
Elsewhere, demand for salons and barbers is expected to be huge, with many already reporting long waiting lists for appointments. Customers will be told not to turn up early to avoid people gathering in waiting areas and doors and windows will be kept open to increase ventilation inside.
Hairdressers must wear a visor that extends below their chin but people having a haircut will not have to wear a face covering. Drinks and magazines will be dropped.