If you have a question that is not on the list, please feel free to email us so we can add it to the list.
QUESTION:
- Is the program required for all restaurants to participate?
ANSWER:
- No, the program is 100% voluntary
QUESTION:
- Is the program a new South Carolina Government regulation?
ANSWER:
- No, it is not a regulation and not enforceable by law
QUESTION:
- How much does it cost to apply and earn a sticker?
Answer:
- There is no cost to earn a Palmetto Priority certificate/sticker
Question:
- I am hearing differing statements about wearing masks/face coverings. Where can I find the most up-to-date information on wearing masks?
Answer:
- There is a lot of misinformation regarding mask/face coverings. We recommend following guidance from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/cloth-face-cover.html
QUESTION:
- Are customers also required to wear masks/face coverings?
ANSWER
- The program does not require customers to wear a mask, but it is good practice to encourage everyone including guests to wear one when entering/exiting and not eating/drinking of course.
QUESTION:
- When do I receive my sticker and certificate?
ANSWER
- Once the application has been received the SCRLA will review the application and verify requirements have been met. If everything is in order a certificate and sticker will be mailed ASAP.
QUESTION:
- How do I schedule a DHEC food Safety Check/Limited Scope Inspection?
ANSWER:
- Find your DHEC food Safety regional office using this link: https://www.scdhec.gov/ea-regional-offices
QUESTION:
- How long does the DHEC food Safety Check/Limited Scope Inspection take?
ANSWER:
- It depends on the size of your operations usually 60-90 minutes is typical.
QUESTION:
- Do I need to display my ServSafe Reopening Guidance certificate of completion?
ANSWER:
- It is not required but you may wish to post it to visually demonstrate to your customers your commitment to keeping them safe.
QUESTION:
- What happens if a person complains about a restaurant that is not part of the program?
ANSWER:
- We will notify them that that restaurant is not part of the program and encourage them to reach out to the restaurant directly to share their concerns?
QUESTION:
- Can I report a food safety violation on the survey form?
ANSWER:
No, please report food safety violations directly with DHEC using the online form at https://apps.dhec.sc.gov/FoodSafety/FileAComplaint/
QUESTION:
- What if an erroneous complaint is filed?
ANSWER:
- We will investigate all valid complaints
QUESTION:
- Can I file a survey/file a complaint anonymously?
ANSWER:
- No, name and contact information is required for follow up
QUESTION:
- Do you share the survey/file a complaint information with the restaurant?
ANSWER:
- If requested, we will provide it to them
QUESTION:
- Does this program replace the Retail Food Safety Permit?
ANSWER:
- No