Caesars unveils detailed plans to reopen in phases under enhanced safety protocols

Caesars Entertainment announced Monday that it plans to resume operations at some properties across its network in phases, in line with demand and capacity, when permitted by applicable government or tribal bodies. 

Across its network, Caesars said its properties will encourage social distancing practices following recommendations from domestic and international authorities, including federal and applicable state and local public health authorities, and implement other enhanced health and safety protocols.

"We look forward to welcoming our guests and team members back to our properties as soon as it is appropriate to do so," Caesars CEO Tony Rodio said in a statement. "We are implementing new protocols focused on the wellbeing of our team members, guests and communities to create environments with high standards of sanitization and physical distancing practices. We are working closely with public health authorities, gaming regulators and infectious disease specialists to design our plan."

In a conference call with investors Monday, Rodio said he expects Caesars Palace to be among the first properties to open. In Las Vegas, Atlantic City, Council Bluffs and Lake Tahoe, Caesars plans to reopen properties in phases and increase staff capacity as well as amenities such as restaurants and live entertainment in line with consumer demand and guidance from public health authorities.

Caesars’ health and safety plan includes enhanced cleaning and sanitization of public spaces and guest rooms using CDC-recommended disinfectants and guidelines intended to limit the spread of the virus. All property employees will be trained on the new procedures and policies. The company will instruct all team members to wash their hands for at least 20 seconds more frequently throughout their shift and signage throughout the properties will strongly encourage guests to do the same. Hand sanitizer will also be available throughout Caesars' properties.

Furthermore, the company will facilitate social distancing practices at all properties, including by limiting table game spots and slot machines. Non-gaming offerings, including entertainment, restaurants and bars, will likely be reopened on a phased basis with limited capacity. Spaces where guests or employees queue, including check-in, elevator lobbies, taxi lines, employee break rooms and cafeterias, will be clearly marked for appropriate social distancing.

All team members will be provided with a mask and they will be required to wear a mask while at work. Some team members including housekeeping and security, may receive additional PPE such as gloves based on their role and if required applicable government or tribal bodies. The company said it will also strongly encourage guests to wear masks, which will be provided by Caesars.

Moreover, Caesars will roll out a health screening program for all employees as part of the process of reopening properties and bringing team members back to its properties. In addition, through December 31, 2020, Caesars will provide team members with an additional 10 days of paid COVID Sick Days if they or someone in their household have been diagnosed with COVID-19.

All team members will be trained on COVID-19 and safety and disinfection protocols. Additional comprehensive training may be conducted for employees who work in certain areas such as housekeeping, F&B, maintenance, hotel operations, casino operations and security.