Coronavirus response team prompts investigations at 68 Allegheny Co. restaurants in first 2 days

ALLEGHENY CO., Pa. — The new COVID Field Response Team in Allegheny County has already made its mark since being announced by county executive Rich Fitzgerald on Wednesday.

According to the county’s website, the response team visited 68 restaurants and bars in Allegheny County over the first two days. That prompted investigations by the health department.

SEE THE FULL LIST OF RESTAURANTS/BARS AND REPORTS HERE

A majority of the businesses passed inspection, and most of the issued violations involved the occupancy limits and mask mandate.

Fitzgerald said Wednesday that the team will continue to investigate complaints at restaurants and bars in particular.

It will make sure tables are spaced far enough apart, and that people are wearing masks and abiding by the 25% capacity limit.

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Officials also want to make sure there’s no smoking, no bar seating and dine-in service ends at 11 p.m.

Fitzgerald said if the team finds any violations, they alert the health department’s food safety division and the health department conducts inspections.

“We are not looking to punish bars and restaurants, but we want everyone to follow the rules, and this team will be providing them with materials and resources that they need to operate safely,” Fitzgerald said.

After an inspection is complete, the name of the restaurant or bar along with a checklist will be posted to the county’s website for the public to see.

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Cox Media Group