It’s fitting that it’s 2020 because this has been a year where we are really seeing things a lot more clearly for the first time. One of the biggest eye-openers was the COVID-19 pandemic. This widespread virus changed life as we know it – face masks became the norm, hand sanitizer was a must, and sneeze guards popped up in almost every grocery and retail store across the country.
What Are Sneeze Guards?
A portable sneeze guard is a protective barrier, typically made from either plexiglass or acrylic, that prevents bacteria or viruses from spreading. It works by blocking spittle or spray from a person’s nose or mouth before it can infect other areas.
The COVID-19 pandemic put sneeze guards in high demand. These protective shields are now popping up at cash registers, banks, and of course, doctor’s offices.
What Is A Sneeze Guard Used For?
A sneeze guard is used as a barrier between shoppers and employees. They are a great way to prevent the spread of germs from one person to the other, which ultimately helps slow down a virus like COVID-19.
Sneeze guards are used for all of the following:
• Restaurants and bakeries
The National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) and U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) require that all food on display is protected by cases or sneeze guards. This is especially true at buffets, where people can easily breathe onto the food and cause contamination.
• Cash registers
Grocery and retail stores like Walmart, Kroger, Target, and Whole Foods have installed sneeze guards at all of their cash registers in response to COVID-19. This helps cut down on the germs that spread from one person to the other.
• Reception desks
Whether it’s a bank, hotel, or hair salon, many reception desks are now equipped with sneeze guards. This helps make transactions or greeting visitors a more hygienic process.
Conclusion
Sneeze guards are effective and work the same as face masks. They stop spray and spittle from your nose and mouth from landing on other surfaces and people.