Right after the COVID-19 pandemic began, movie theaters across the United States were forced to close their doors. While this was done for the protection of both employees and patrons to prevent the spread of the dangerous virus, it definitely hurt the bottom line of every theater operator. Both big and small chains, along with independent theaters alike, saw the bottom drop out of the industry. Some movie production companies rescheduled opening dates, while others took their movies straight to on-demand streaming platforms.
Now that things are starting to reopen in many parts of the country, many movie theaters are again open for business. This is great news for the patrons – who love seeing films on the big screen while indulging with a tub of yummy, buttery popcorn – and for the workers and owners as well – who need a salary and ticket sales in order to survive. While these reopenings are an extremely positive sign, it’s especially important that you still take a number of precautions in order to safely reopen your movie theater.
Separate Workers from Patrons with Plastic Barriers
Closed theaters presented the perfect opportunity for some safety upgrades. Like stores, doctor’s offices, pharmacies, and other businesses around the country, it was mandated that business needed to place thick, clear plastic barriers across the front of every opening in order to provide some protection for employees. These barriers act as germ guards, preventing COVID-19 particles from potentially traveling from one person to another and should be installed in all ticket booths, as well as around ticket takers and in the concession areas.
Sanitize Theaters After Showings
Thorough sanitation is key. It’s extremely important to fully sanitize every theater after every showing. Yes, everything was cleaned before, for the most part, but the days of sticky floors and the occasional lingering popcorn spill are over. In order to keep COVID-19 from spreading in between showings, the theaters should be closed off and cleaned thoroughly using an approved disinfectant. It’s important to schedule adequate time in between showings to ensure there is time to clean every nook and cranny to ensure your patrons’ health and safety.
Limit Theater Capacity
Clearly, the capacity of every movie should be limited. Before, it was nice to watch a single showing sell out, but those days are gone (at least for now). Everything has changed, and we are living in a “new normal.” So, you should be operating at around 50% capacity. This allows for plenty of social distancing within each theater. Plus, at the moment, many people may be wary of going to a movie theater anyway, so your capacity may need to be even lower.
Block Off Seats to Encourage Social Distancing
On top of limiting capacity, it’s important to block off a percentage of seats in every theater with caution tape. Otherwise, you’ll have to worry about people clustering together. Remember to offer at least two seats together here and there for couples or families who want to see a movie and remain in the same containment bubble.
Enforce Mask Use When Not Seated
Another CDC recommendation involves the use of masks. When patrons are buying tickets and snacks, as well as using the restroom, their masks should be on. Once they’re seated, they can remove their masks, as they should be situated 6 feet apart from other guests so they can safely enjoy their concession snacks as well.
The good news is that you can rest assured that the chances for spreading the virus at a movie theater are fairly slim, because everyone should be socially distanced and facing the same direction while watching the movie. Of course, your employees should have masks on at all times to ensure their own protection and the added safety of your patrons. In this “new normal,” diligence is the key to ensuring the safe reopening of your theater.