When it comes to food service, nothing is more significant than cleanliness and safety. One essential tool that helps protect your customers and staff is the sneeze guard. Sneeze guards, typically found in restaurants or buffets, promote positive hygiene practices and prevent the spread of germs. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about sneeze guards, including why they’re an important element of the hospitality industry.
What Are Sneeze Guards?
A sneeze guard is a clear barrier, usually made of plastic or acrylic, that is designed to prevent the contamination of food in serving areas. They are called sneeze guards because they physically block water droplets from coughing, talking, or sneezing from landing on food or cutlery, which could potentially spread dangerous bacteria or viruses. The US Food and Drug Administration made them mandatory in the late 1950s, and they have become a mainstay of restaurants and other dining establishments ever since.
Many dining establishments choose customizable sneeze guards to fit their space and business needs. Sneeze guards don’t have to be an eyesore – since they’re transparent and come in a variety of shapes and sizes, they can enhance aesthetics as well as contribute to a safer environment. It’s best to choose a sneeze guard with plastic that’s approximately one inch thick to provide adequate protection and prevent cracking or shattering. Next, let’s explore why sneeze guards are the right choice for your business.
Prevent the Spread of Germs
In open environments where food is on display, such as a buffet or deli counter, the use of sneeze guards is especially important. In these cases, there is a much higher risk of droplets landing on food and contaminating it. While sneeze guards can prevent contamination, staff should be trained on how to properly clean and sanitize them, especially during high-traffic meal times.
To ensure sneeze guards work properly, they need to be placed at an appropriate and accessible height. They should be high enough to block droplets but still provide diners easy access to food. Make sure you regularly check that sneeze guards are positioned effectively and haven’t been knocked loose since any gaps can render them ineffective.
Build Customer Confidence
Many consumers today are exceptionally health conscious and aware of health standards, especially when it comes to where they eat. When guests see a sneeze guard in your establishment, it reassures them that you take safety measures seriously and have invested in protecting their health. This increases their confidence and encourages customer loyalty, as most people prioritize safety when choosing a restaurant or recommending one to others.
Meet Health and Safety Regulations
Many health and safety codes require the use of sneeze guards for food service environments. If you’re in the hospitality industry, compliance with these regulations is the only way to avoid fines, a bad reputation, and even the closure of your business. The COVID-19 pandemic brought increased awareness of the importance of maintaining strict safety standards in businesses like hotels, cafes, and restaurants. As a result, sneeze guards are becoming standard in many places other than eating areas, such as front desks and cashier stations.