We're going into our 3rd year dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic, and while things are still feeling a bit uncertain, some aspects are life are starting to get back to normal. While some restaurants are choosing to remain closed in areas where the pandemic is still wreaking havoc, other restaurants in other areas are being allowed to open on the owner's discretion. If the restaurant feels like it's safe enough to open it's doors - whether at limited or full capacity - keeping the staff and customers safe should still be a top priority.

Firstly - if you haven't already, and feel comfortable doing it - embrace non-contact takeout and online delivery services. These services may not have been convenient or even cost effective before the pandemic, but people now more than ever are turning to takeout and delivery as a safe way for them and their families to enjoy and support their favorite restaurants during these strange times. If your local government is allowing dining at restaurants again and you feel it is safe to open up and start having customers eat inside again there are a few steps you can take to keep staff and customers feel comfortable and safe. Only open back up to the capacity that you are your staff feel comfortable with. Do not feel obligated to open back to full capacity if you or your staff thinks it may put them at risk. The CDC recommends wearing face masks inside establishments unless you are eating or drinking, which is a sort of grey area when it comes to restaurants, but if your staff feels more comfortable wearing masks the whole time then they should be allowed to go that route. Most important is cleanliness - a restaurant should be cleaning tables, silverware, etc. after every meal, but consider disinfecting tables and chairs with commercial grade cleaners and sanitizers after each customer leaves. This not only makes the next customer who sits down feel more comfortable, but also ensures that your restaurant is constantly being cleaned and sanitary.

Staying safe should still be a top priority no matter how you choose to open back up your restaurant. With the pandemic going in waves you should always put you and your staff's comfort and safety first. Thankfully with no-contact take-out and delivery services it has become easier for businesses to stay profitable on just the takeout / delivery plan, at least until the pandemic finally begins to wind down and things start truly getting back to normal. HoodMart provides our customers with a wide range of exhaust hood systems - from Compensating (Short Cycle) to Perforated Supply Plenum PSP - as well as all exhaust hood accessories such as no weld Grease Duct, hood filters, canopy hood lights, and curbs. We also offer a wide range of walk-in refrigeration systems to meet your needs. If you still have questions regarding the purchase of your hood system, please feel free to contact one of our experts today by calling us at 1.866.692.5872 or by contacting us through our live chat system.