The LCBO is taking steps to better protect both its workers and customers from the novel coronavirus.
According to the Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU), which represents liquor store employees, plexiglass barriers and tape to ensure social distancing are going to be installed.
"OPSEU has persuaded the LCBO to install plexiglass barriers at checkout counters and the work will be proceeding as soon as possible," OPSEU President Warren 'Smokey' Thomas said in a statement on Friday. "The LCBO has also agreed to limit the number of customers in some stores at any one time and provide security to enforce that."
Other safety precautions being adopted include closing every second cash register, keeping more hand sanitizer and disinfecting supplies on hand, allowing employees a break to wash their hands every 30 minutes, and placing floor markers to enforce physical distancing at the checkout.
Thomas stated he is still waiting to hear back from LCBO officials on whether they will agree to issue masks to all employees and temporarily eliminate cash payments. He also still wants clarification on the impact going down to six days a week from seven will have on staff.
The LCBO, which has been deemed an essential service by the province, announced earlier this week that all of its retail locations will be closed on Mondays for the foreseeable furture due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Reduced hours of operation have also been put in place, with stores now open 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday.
"We respect the decision to stay open to help a vulnerable population, however we want to ensure all the necessary precautions are implemented to protect our workers and the public," said Thomas.
The union and LCBO officials have had nearly daily conference calls to discuss precautions since the outbreak began.