It’s almost impossible to abide by self-distancing regulations at self-checkout stands, despite retailers best efforts to ensure shoppers keep two metres apart, according to one local residence.
Chanel Strauss went to Superstore on No. 3 Road last week and found there wasn’t enough space to maintain social-distancing when staff members were assisting another customer at self-checkout.
"When a customer at self-checkout needs assistance, the staff has to walk up to the screen to make the adjustments. And while this is being done, almost all the time, the customer is standing either directly beside or behind the staff to watch the adjustments."
Strauss said she understands customers want to oversee the adjustment and standing six feet away would make that difficult, however, it's not safe for store staff.
"I know that everyone has a part to play in this. I was just really concerned about the situation for both customers and staff who we appreciate and understand that they are putting themselves at risk every day when they go to work and assist customers."
After sharing her safety concern with Superstore's parent company, Loblaw Companies Limited, Strauss received an email claiming the company is looking into the issue and will reduce its number of self-checkout counters by half to allow for more physical distancing between people.
Meanwhile, other large retail chains, including Richmond's Walmart, are "banning" couples from shopping together in a bid to help enforce social distancing rules.
An employee from Walmart, located on Alderbridge Way and near Garden City, told the News over the phone that the "one-customer-per-household" rule was intended to give customers and associates more space in the store. If possible, children should also stay home, but those who aren't able to stay home alone are welcome to shop with one adult, according to the staff member.
Meanwhile, Save On Foods said it is looking at implementing one-way arrows in narrow aisles, according to a statement it released Monday.
They have also been limiting the number of customers in each store during peak shopping hours to allow for 10 square feet per person and two meters between customers.
