The COVID-19 global pandemic has caused severe global socio-economic chaos. Millions of people got affected due to the virus outbreak in the United States. Many sports, cultural, religious, political, and activities have come to a halt. This novel disease majorly disrupts the day-to-day lives of Americans.
Many people are afraid of stepping out at public spaces like shopping malls, supermarkets, and even gas stations. We must all play our part to flatten the curve and combat the disease, and the best way to do this is by following the safety measures. Here’s a guide for maintaining gas pump sanitation for both retailers and consumers.
Retailers
Gas station owners should implement strict policies to protect their employees and customers from the COVID-19 virus. The employees should be provided with essential supplies like face masks, gloves, hand sanitizers, and PPE. Moreover, the pumps and c-store, especially the high-touch surfaces, should be regularly cleaned and disinfected.
Some chemicals can be harsh for fuel dispensers and cause damage to components. The recommended method is to clean the dispenser with soap and water. 70% isopropyl alcohol and bleach solutions are considered safe for disinfection purposes. The cleaning process must be carried out using a sponge (and not a sprayer or pressure washer).
The COVID-19 prevention SOPs should be designed and implemented through the gas station and c-store. Employees should be educated and trained to make sure they follow the regulations. Moreover, any employee with symptoms of COVID-19 should be provided leaves to prevent the spread of this deadly virus.
Consumers
Gas stations are primarily responsible for maintaining hygiene and safety to make their business safe, but consumers should also play their part. Wearing a face mask is necessary when driving to a gas station. They must also follow the social distancing laws and maintain a six-feet distance from fuel pump workers.
Moreover, cash is notoriously covered in germs, so it’s also essential to use a hand sanitizer after handling money. Ideally, they should use credit cards for payment, whenever possible, to minimize interaction. Unfortunately, it’s the new normal, at least for the next few months, and following safety guidelines is crucial for safety.
Adoption of EMV technology—A reminder for gas stations and c-store owners
Amid the coronavirus pandemic, most consumers prefer paying by credit cards. It’s important to provide them with a secure gateway to carry out transactions safely. The deadline for EMV compliance is right around the corner; therefore, it’s recommended to become compliant to avoid financial liability of fraudulent transactions and provide a safe payment option to customers.
John W. Kennedy Company is a leading supplier of petroleum equipment and supplies in the United States. You can find the best EMV Forecourt and Point of Sale technology solutions from top brands like Gilbarco Veeder-Root on our website. Browse our online store to find out more about our products.