Council works with food businesses to reduce risk of coronavirus spread

Coronavirus is still circulating in Hertfordshire, with Dacorum seeing a recent increase in the number of new confirmed cases, particularly linked to young people and settings such as in bars and cafes. If the rise in cases continues, restrictions may need to be introduced to protect residents.

This week Dacorum Borough Council officers are contacting over 460 food businesses and licensed premises in the borough to remind them of the requirements they must meet and the need to be particularly vigilant to prevent further spread of the infection. Officers from Trading Standards, Environmental Health and Public Health are now routinely visiting premises, without prior warning to check that they are COVID secure.

The vast majority of businesses are working really hard to ensure these measures are adhered to. Their continued efforts are essential in protecting people from becoming infected and reducing the number of people who need urgent medical care.

All event promoters and licencees submitting permit applications for events of over thirty people are already required to submit COVID risk assessments. The Council wants to ensure that these events are safe, and the majority of event organisers have worked hard to ensure that this is the case.

Cllr Julie Banks, Portfolio Holder for Community and Regulatory Services said: ‘Our local businesses are working hard to ensure the safety of staff and customers and I would like to thank them for their sustained efforts. The Council will continue to offer support and advice, and where necessary take enforcement action against any operators who do not comply with the COVID secure guidelines, risking further transmission of the virus.’