for COVID-19 violationsEmployees not wearing face covering amid the COVID-19 pandemic prompted a “red placard” for The Korner Pocket Bar and Grill in Kealakekua.
for COVID-19 violationsEmployees not wearing face covering amid the COVID-19 pandemic prompted a “red placard” for The Korner Pocket Bar and Grill in Kealakekua.
The Department of Health Food Safety Branch responded to a complaint about the establishment’s violations of physical distancing and face mask use requirements in food establishments and bars last week. As a result of the complaint, the Department of Health conducted an initial investigation on Aug. 19 and documented one employee observed not wearing a face covering and a lack of 6-foot space between tables.
The department provided the restaurant the state’s Guidance for Reopening Food Services Sector and a warning letter indicating the observed violations. The owner/operator of the establishment was also informed that any further violations of the DOH Guidance would result in the issuance of a red placard and the mandatory closure of the food establishment.
During a follow-up inspection on Monday, the health department issued a red placard for two employees who were observed not wearing face coverings in the kitchen and required the establishment to immediately stop operations.
The company has 20 days to request a hearing to contest the notice.
The Korner Pocket Bar and Grill was allowed to reopen on Tuesday. A follow-up inspection that day showed the restaurant corrected the violation and it was issued a green placard and allowed to reopen.
The department did not notify the public of the issues until Friday.
