... none of the adapters work anywhere.
Many reasons can explain that. And many appliances - not just surge protectors or big motors. Is your restaurant three phase? Probably. But anyone who answers must know that. Completely different from the single phase that creates two phases in a house.
Start with what works. IOW plug both adapters into a same receptacle. They should work. If not, the next step is different from what follows.
Many circuits exist - not one. Identify other receptacles on the same circuit. Move one adapter there. Does it still work? Eventually communication between two receptacles on the same circuit might fail. More useful information. Now disconnect other appliances on that circuit until communication is restored. Report on all testing - pass and fail.
Identify other circuits (each on a different circuit breaker) that are also on a same phase. Repeat same test between those two circuits. Good is when each test works or fails. Since we are not yet making communication work. That comes later. Currently define what exists and what changes those results. Then others can reply with useful assistance.
How to determine same phase? That can be obvious by viewing the inside of a breaker box. Or simple tests using a meter and extension cords might be implemented.
BTW, no surges exist here. Surges occur maybe once every seven years. Surges get blamed when one must invent myths for what is otherwise not understood.
Your building cannot be on one circuit breaker. Various circuits are constructed for various amperages (ie 15, 20, 30, 50A). Some of many circuits might be multiple phases - made obvious by circuit breakers with multiple, mechanically interconnected poles.
If necessary, go to Lowes or Home Depot to see (or ask about) what exists. Or find an informed friend.
No wiring is constructed for this communication. Communication works because adapters adapt to all existing wires. Long before we can say what is not adapting, information from these simple tests are required.