Casino life will have to change post-coronavirus
Casino gaming is really taking a hit right now. Casinos all over the country are shut down. When they open back up is anyone’s guess, but I would advise the guests and employees not to expect the same Standard Operating Procedures that were in effect before March 14. That was the date that many casino/hotels started to shut down.
One change will involve some form of social distancing. You should see that in any lines at the cashier cage and the entrances to the casinos. Depending on the foot traffic that distancing may include the restrooms, sports books and restaurants. The employees will want to refrain from hugging, handshakes and high-fives for people they missed seeing over this period. A vigorous wave or elbow bump will suffice.
The hours of operation and the amount of floor space utilized will be monitored to access the demand. Many people will just be getting back to work so money will not be in abundance for social pleasures. While there will be a rush to socialize again, it will not be at the level pre-COVID-19.
It will be prudent to have the venue as clean as possible. Imagine being in the barbershop! After a barber does two consecutive patrons, he sweeps around the chair. During the COVID-19 period that same barber would sweep after each cut and swipe the chair down. Casinos should periodically swipe the chairs and tables down during the shift.
The premise is that the guests, employees and operators must work together to keep each other safe. Guests should not be coming to play if they have a cold, cough, sneezing or running noses. The same rules will apply to the employees. Think about how you appear to the people around you and how uncomfortable they may feel. Stay home and return when your situation is cleared up.
When this is over, and we are back together, we will be stronger and better.