Most grocery stores have remained open during the global pandemic as they offer an essential service within communities.
However, there has been some confusion about which of the Public Health Officer’s orders apply to food stores.
Although the prohibition of gatherings of more than 50 people does not directly apply to grocery stores, an official statement by the Provincial Government insists “the spirit of the order should be followed.”
Ultimately, this means that more than fifty people are allowed in grocery stores where appropriate physical distancing can be maintained.
Additionally, stores are encouraged to:
- have hand sanitizer near doors, pay stations and other high-touch locations for both customer and staff use
- ensure washrooms are stocked with liquid soap and paper towers, with warm running water available
- provide clean carry-out bags for purchased goods, as customers should not use their own containers, bags, or boxes
- no longer sell bulk items except gravity feed bins or staff-dispensed items
Additionally, universal rules continue to apply to grocery stores meaning that anyone with COVID-19-like symptoms such as a sore throat, fever, sneezing or coughing, must self-isolate for 14 days.
The BC Government has published further guidelines and expectations online.