These are the coronavirus hotspots to avoid when out at restaurants, bars and pubs

Now we are back out and about, here are some potential hotspots to try and avoid.

Published 25th Sep 2020
Updated 9 th Aug 2023

With social distancing rules in place, public venues are doing their best to combat the spread of the coronavirus.

Though many are putting practices in place that ensure people don’t come into contact with each other, there are still many avenues through which the virus can infect others.

Hospitality sector experts QTAP have closely studied the state of venues post-lockdown and have come up with five ways that may lessen your chances of catching Covid-19 when out at venues.

Avoid the toilets (if possible)

It’s the most obvious one but it has to be stated. Toilets can be a breeding ground for germs and bacteria, so without proper precautions and thorough cleaning these can be a danger for catching the coronavirus.

 Stay clear of the bar

Many establishments aren’t letting people stand at the bar because of social distancing and for good reason. No matter how big, the bar area is always bustling if it's open, with most people placing their hands on it while they wait, order or pay - making this a hot spot for potential infection.

Beware of doors and entrances

Doors, and specifically their handles, may not be cleaned as often as they should be throughout the day. In the case of a busy venue where people are coming and going constantly, be aware of washing hands or using hand sanitiser after opening or closing doors.

Clean chairs and tables

Although both the tables and chairs get cleaned after every cover, the quick turnaround required for seating and eating at the moment means there’s a good chance the staff might miss a spot, so giving it a quick wipe down yourself may give you peace of mind.

Choose quiet times

No matter what kind of venue you’re heading to, it’s worth doing a quick Google search on what their peak times are. This will tell you when you’re most likely to avoid crowds and therefore unnecessary contact that can facilitate the spread of Covid-19.

Oro, Shetland and Loch Lomond distilleries join sanitiser production drive with donations to NHS and care services

New bar with Scotland's largest collection of rum to open in Edinburgh 

Tags:
Location:none
Known for cake making, experimental jam recipes, Champagne, whisky and gin drinking (and the inability to cook Gnocchi), Rosalind is the Food and Drink Editor and whisky writer for The Scotsman, as well as hosting Scran, The Scotsman's food and drink podcast.
Copyright ©2024 National World Publishing Ltd
Cookie SettingsTerms and ConditionsPrivacy Policy
crosschevron-down linkedin facebook pinterest youtube rss twitter instagram facebook-blank rss-blank linkedin-blank pinterest youtube twitter instagram