Is There a Rule/Regulation that prohibits cleaning in front on guest in a restaurant?

Question

Me and my wife were having a conversation and she feels there is law, rule or regulation that says employees of a restaurant should not clean in front of customers (ie: mopping, sweeping or wiping off tables), because it's not ethical and is considered offensive by some guests. I halfway agree with her on the sweeping part, because dust can rise into food, but mopping is another case to me. I just want to know if there is actually a rule that states these things cannot be done in front of a customer while they are eating at a restaurant. Thanks.

Be Blessed,

Music Man Dre

Answer 1

Who do you think sets rules and regulations? Those are set by organizations and businesses. No, there are no laws against sweeping in front of customers. Ethics regard moral principals, so I think calling that action unethical is stretching things. Can it be inappropriate? It depends where you're eating and what's being swept up. Broken glass, for instance, is acceptable. Very dry, fine dirt particles close to your table is not. Acceptable at tavern on the Green- no. Acceptable at a small get some eggs or a burger and go- probably, again, depending on specifics. I bet it won't bother your wife so much that she doesn't go back. This is relatively small potatoes.

Answer 2

I don't see how it would be unethical.  Not very aesthetic, true, but not unethical.  Unsanitary?  Maybe, as you said sweeping could raise dust.

I'd say it also depends on the place.  McDonald's, with all of the children that visit, can't help it because there are spills and people to clean up after.  Ruth's Chris, on the other hand, I can't imagine doing much more than cleaning tables.  Some place like Olive Garden, I can see it going either way.

If she doesn't like it, take the complaint to the manager.  He or she is the one in a position to change the restaurant's policies regarding cleaning times and procedures.

Answer 3

If you weren't allowed to wipe tables around customer's then how would they have clean spots for new customers? Sweeping and mopping is something you aren't supposed to do but there is no law banning it. I have worked in many restaurants and it is a common courtesy not to do any extensive cleaning while there are people around however it is impossible not to wipe the tables when people are around. I forgot to mention that you aren't supposed to mop because people can slip and in turn sue the company.