County restaurant inspections gearing up under green phase
The Allegheny County Health Department has resumed inspections of restaurant kitchens and other food facilities following the county’s move into the green phase of the state’s pandemic reopening plan.
Routine inspections had been on hold during the lockdown, when restaurants were limited to takeout and delivery service.
During that time, health inspectors spent most of their shifts on the phone going over coronavirus-related safety protocols with restaurants. The department also continued to perform on-site visits in response to any consumer complaints.
Going forward, inspectors will be following pandemic safety guidelines during their field inspections, wearing protective gear and “taking appropriate precautions,” Allegheny County spokeswoman Amie Downs said in an email.
Inspectors also will be reinforcing the use of special safety procedures for restaurants, including frequent hand-washing and masks for employees, reduced occupancy limits, and social distancing.
State guidelines for restaurants operating in the green phase are available on the state’s website at www.governor.pa.gov/covid-19/ restaurant-industry-guidance/.
Besides restaurants, the health department inspects kitchens in grocery stores, convenience stores, banquet halls, social clubs, schools and hospitals, in addition to food processors and warehouses, among others.
Inspection reports for food facilities in the county are available at achd.net/Restaurant.