Dubbo's food outlets can expect visits from a NSW government department checking compliance with COVID safety plans, Dubbo Regional Council reports.
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Council environmental compliance manager Michael Jarman said council staff had been going to businesses to help them understand the requirements, at the request of the government.
Now officers from the Department of Primary Industries and Environment (DPIE), the authorised regulatory authority to enforce the order, had started visiting premises and they could issue fines for non-compliance, the council reports.
"The new public health order applies to take away food outlets, service stations, supermarkets, convenience stores and mobile food vendors," Mr Jarman said.
"Emphasis has been placed on social distancing and the need for a COVID-19 safe hygiene marshal."
"What this means is that all food outlets need to appoint a staff member as the COVID-19 safe hygiene marshal to control the flow of customers through the premises and ensure they comply with the safety plan."
This marshal will need to be identifiable in either wearing a bright coloured garment or badge.
The requirement stipulates that large venues with the capacity of more than 250 people must have a marshal on duty whenever the venue is open.
"Smaller venues must also have a COVID-19 safe hygiene marshal during peak periods, and at least during lunch from 12pm to 3pm and from 5pm to 9pm," Mr Jarman said.
Council COVID-19 spokesperson Andrew Parsons, corporate image and communications manager, said the council had an ongoing commitment to ensure the community remained safe.
"It is critical that council works alongside local businesses, residents and health authorities to help people understand this pandemic and what their responsibilities are," he said.
"Council encourages residents and business owners to contact NSW Health with any questions they might have about these follow-up inspections and COVID-19 safety plan compliance."
Further information can be found on https://www.nsw.gov.au/covid-19/industry-guidelines and the plans relevant to the food industry "Restaurant and Cafes" and "Retail and Grocery".
ServiceNSW can also be contacted on 13 77 88.
