A server takes an order inside of a restaurant. File photo courtesy of © Can Stock Photo / JackFA server takes an order inside of a restaurant. File photo courtesy of © Can Stock Photo / JackF
London

Health Unit amending restaurant guidelines

Now that the Province of Ontario has lifted capacity limits at restaurants, the Middlesex London Health Unit dropping some of the requirements it placed on eateries in the region.

The health unit announced Tuesday afternoon that the Section 22 Order put in place by Medical Officer of Health Dr. Chris Mackie is being amended to put it in line with provincial guidelines. Effective immediately, the health unit will no longer require physical distancing requirements of two metres or by plexiglass barriers for eating and drinking at designated tables.

However, diners will still be required to wear masks when they enter a restaurant or get up from their table.

“In addition to the proof of vaccination requirement, masking continues to play an important role in reducing COVID-19 transmission in settings where physical distancing cannot be maintained,” Associate Medical Officer of Health Dr. Alex Summers said in a news release.

The health unit added that failure to comply with the amended Section 22 Order for Food and Drink establishments can result in a fine of $750 for individuals and $1,000 for a business or organization.

519 Podcast host Craig Needles spoke to Summers about the decision. You can hear that conversation below.

[audio mp3="https://blackburnnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/Alex-Summers.mp3"][/audio]

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