AMC Webster 12 officially reopened last week

The ‘AMC Safe & Clean’ regulations you need to know

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Webster, NY - Let’s face it: watching new movies at home is nice and all, but there’s nothing quite like a large, dark theater with a giant screen and the smell of buttered popcorn.

Gov. Andrew Cuomo recently announced that movie theaters in New York State can start reopening - just as long as they have specific safety guidelines in place to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

AMC Webster 12 was one of the local theaters to open last week, much to the excitement of those who enjoy those comfy red recliners.

“The reopening of movie theatres around the country is essential to the theatrical industry and the entire entertainment ecosystem,” AMC CEO Adam Aron states in a company news release. “It has become clear that movie studios are not willing to release blockbuster [products] until key major markets are open. Therefore, it is a monumental step in the right direction for our entire industry that theatres are starting to open across the state of New York.”

Aron goes on to say that AMC has a new “Safe & Clean” initiative “to ensure that we are reopening responsibly and with a focus on the health and safety of our guests and associates.”

“AMC Safe & Clean is the cornerstone of our efforts to woo back moviegoers to cinemas,” says Aron. “Our AMC Safe & Clean protocols feature social distancing, mandatory mask wearing, the easy availability of disinfecting wipes and hand sanitizer, along with high tech solutions like electrostatic sprayers, HEPA vacuums and enhanced air filtration through MERV 13 filters, as well as numerous other new safety and cleanliness procedures.”

AMC Safe & Clean was created under the guidance of current and former faculty of Harvard University’s School of Public Health, as well as the No. 1 U.S. cleaning brand, The Clorox Company.

So what exactly are the policies and procedures of the “Safe & Clean” initiative?

AMC says it has taken multiple measures to reduce major touch points, such as creating simplified menus for shorter lines at concessions and reduced auditorium capacities for social distancing.

Below is a list of the highlights so you have an idea of what to expect as you return to your AMC Webster moviegoing pleasure.

Masks Are Required

Both AMC staff and guests are now required to wear masks. It’s important to note that AMC emphasizes that neck gaiters, open-chin bandanas, and masks with vents or exhalation valves “are not acceptable at this time.”

Masks must fully cover both nose and mouth and “fit snugly around your face and chin.”

For those who do not have a mask handy, they are available for purchase at the theater for $1.

Food and Drink Stipulations

Masks are still required in the auditorium as you are watching the movie, but you are allowed to remove them to enjoy your food and beverages. Just remember to put your mask back on whenever you are not eating or drinking.

Social Distancing

There are directional signs and reminders throughout the theater to encourage social distancing before, during, and after the movie.

Limited Capacity

AMC auditoriums are now at 40% or less capacity. Since AMC Webster has the reclining seats, the theater’s new ticketing technology now blocks the seats on either side of your reserved seat selection, and there is space between rows to allow for social distancing.

Cashless Transactions

Credit, debit or gift card transactions are preferred - both for ticket purchases and concessions - to reduce contact with others.

Simplified Menu Selections

AMC has temporarily reduced and simplified its menu selections to keep lines moving quickly, reducing the amount of time people are standing near each other. It’s keeping the classics, of course, such as AMC Perfectly Popcorn™, Coca-Cola® Freestyle, hot dogs, candy, MovieNachos, and AMC KidsPacks®.

Hand Sanitizer and Disinfecting Wipes

Hand sanitizer and wipe stations are now located throughout the theater. Guests are strongly encouraged to use them before and after buying concessions.

Condiments, Napkins, Etc. Need to Be Requested

Normally, there would be a station where you can grab your napkins, straws, and condiments. However, AMC says you now need to request these items from the cashier.

No More Refills

To reduce the frequency of contact, AMC says you cannot request refills for popcorn or beverages at this time.

Health Screenings

For the safety of guests and fellow employees, AMC is requiring all managers and crew members to participate in health screenings, having their temperatures routinely checked before their shifts.

Auditorium Disinfection and Routine Cleaning

AMC is using electrostatic disinfectant sprayers to disinfect its auditoriums before each show. Additionally, common areas, high touch points, and hard surfaces (e.g. doors, handrails, recliner buttons, etc.) are cleaned and sanitized on a routine basis.

Upgraded MERV 13 Air Filters

AMC’s HVAC systems now have MERV 13 filters to improve air quality and help prevent contamination.

HEPA Filter Vacuums

Carpeted areas are vacuumed every night using HEPA filter vacuums, which AMC says help trap 99.97% of airborne particles.

With the current state of our country amidst this pandemic, it’s nice to get back to some of the traditional pleasures we all love - even if they look a bit different.