THE ESSENTIAL

COVID-19

REOPENING

GUIDEBOOK

EVERYTHING THAT YOU

NEED TO KNOW ABOUT
REOPENING YOUR
BUSINESS IN A POST
PANDEMIC WORLD
 THANK YOU!
Thank you for downloading Brosnan’s Essential COVID-19 Reopening
Guidebook!

The information contained in this guide is meant to help you reopening

your business as the COVID-19 pandemic subsides. Much of the
information contained throughout these pages are from industry and
government sources including the CDC, FDA, EPA, and OSHA. Brosnan
takes no responsibility for any issues that arise by virtue of you utilizing
information that is contained in this document. We suggest that you
continue to conduct your own research and adhere as much as you can
to industry best practices for keeping your workplaces clean and your
employees and customers safe. By downloading and using this eBook,
you agree that Brosnan is in no way responsible for the decisions that you
make with your business and in your workplace.

2
In This E-Book

While we cannot possibly cover all of the requirements that exist from
state-to-state regarding the reopening of your business, we have been
able to put together a fairly comprehensive list of resources designed to
assist you in finding the information that you will need to be successful in
that endeavor.

Here are the topics that we will cover:

• Finding the best practices for employee health, cleaning and sanitizing,
and personal protective equipment (PPE) from the CDC, FDA, EPA, and
OSHA all in one place.

• Monitoring the number of people that enter your building or facility.

• Quick screening visitors for potential signs of sickness, like high

temperature.

• Controlling the flow of visitors to ensure that they maintain safe

distances.

• Developing and implementing appropriate policies, in accordance with

Federal, State, and local regulations.

• Sanitation and sterilization best practices.

• Developing an employee COVID testing and tracing policy.

3
Table of Contents

1. Should We Re-Open: Yes or No?

2. Establish a COVID-19 Prevention Plan for Your Business

3. Train Your Employees on How to Administer Your COVID-19 Prevention Plan

4. Create Access Control Measures and Symptom Screening Checkpoints

5. Adopt and Implement Physical Distancing Guidelines

6. Establish Regular Cleaning and Disinfecting Protocols

7. Chemicals and Disinfectants to Use Against COVID-19

8. Develop COVID-19 Response Procedures for Potentially Sick or At-Risk Individuals

9. Site Specific Guidance:

a. Restaurants and Retail Food Establishments

b. Malls and Shopping Centers

10. State-by-State COVID-19 Restriction Summaries and Updates

11. Additional Resources for developing a COVID-19 Prevention Plan (CPP)

4
Should We Re-Open: Yes or No?

Workplace Considerations for Reopening During the COVID-19

Pandemic

It is the burning question plaguing almost every business in the United

States today… Making the choice to reopen your business now or wait
until you can do so in safer environment is big decision facing most
business owner throughout the United States. There are many factors
to consider including state regulations, best practices, liability, safety,
training, and resources.
The CDC released a tool is to assist employers, regardless of business
type, in making (re)opening decisions during the COVID-19 pandemic,
especially to protect vulnerable workers. It is important to check with
state and local health officials and other partners to determine the
most appropriate actions while adjusting to meet the unique needs and
circumstances of the local community.

This tool can be found here:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/organizations/
workplace-decision-tool.html

5
 Step One:
Should you consider opening?

• Will reopening be consistent with applicable state and local orders?

• Are you ready to protect employees at higher risk for severe illness?

• If your response is NO to either of these questions: Do not open.

• If your response is YES to both: Proceed to the next step.

Step Two:
Are recommended health and safety
actions and safeguards in place?

• Are you able to promote healthy hygiene practices such as hand washing
and employees wearing a cloth face covering, as feasible?

• Are you prepared to intensify cleaning, disinfection, and ventilation?

• Are you willing to encourage social distancing and enhance spacing

between employees, including through physical barriers, changing layout
of workspaces, encouraging telework, closing or limiting access to
communal spaces, staggering shifts and breaks, and limiting large events,
when and where feasible?

• Will you consider modifying travel and commuting practices; and

promote telework for employees who do not live in the local area, if
feasible?

• Are you going to train all employees on health and safety protocols?

• If your response is NO to any of these questions: Meet safeguards first.

• If your response is YES to all: Proceed to the next step.

6
Step Three:
Is ongoing monitoring in place?

• Are you willing to develop and implement procedures to check for signs
and symptoms of employees daily upon arrival, as feasible?

• Will you encourage anyone who is sick to stay home?

• Do you have a plan for if an employee gets sick?

• Will you regularly communicate and monitor developments with local

authorities and employees?

• Will you monitor employee absences and have flexible leave policies and
practices?

• Are you prepared to consult with your local health authorities if there are
cases in your facility or an increase in cases in the local area?

• If your response is NO to any of these questions: Meet safeguards first.

• If your response is YES to all: Open and Monitor.

As you can see, the CDC Workplace Considerations Tool is a basic “Yes or
No” decision tool designed to help you think about the variables that must be
considered as you plan to reopen your business. If you answered NO to any of
the safeguard questions because of a lack of resources, please reach out to us.
We have experts standing by and we can help.

While it is not required, depending on your business’ size and requirements, you
might also consider having your facility’s monitoring capabilities augmented
by a security agency that can offer you real-time direct access to your business
operations via remote connection. Today’s best security agencies offer cutting
edge security command center platforms that collect, analyze and disseminate
data from numerous sources to on-site teams. These platforms are able to
instantly analyze thousands of streams of public data, including social media
and multiple sources for tracking police, fire and ambulance transmissions as
well as your own live business “feeds” to give your operations team insight to
what is happening around your business so you can operate proactively instead
of reactively.

7
 Establish a COVID-19 Prevention Plan
for Your Business
It is important to establish a written, worksite-specific COVID-19
Prevention Plan (CPP) for your business. By performing a comprehensive
risk assessment of all work areas, and designating a person or group
of people responsible for implementing the plan, you will ensure the
health and safety of your workers, vendors and customers. Your plan
should include considerations for all visitors that typically enter your
establishment.

For instance, if you operate a hair salon, you should have a plan in place
for engaging with each customer safely while they are waiting for service,
while you wash or cut their hair, exchange money with them after their
service, sanitize after each customer, take a delivery from a vendor,
protect employees by issuing proper PPE, and keeping their workspaces
far enough apart and well ventilated, etc.

8
Your COVID-19 Prevention Plan should describe how your business will
implement the following, in compliance with the general statewide
guidance or any specific industry guidance applicable to your business:

• Policies and procedures that assist in the identification of sick

workers and ensure sick workers stay home

• Implementation of engineering and administrative protocols for

social distancing

• Worker hygiene and source controls

• Workplace building and ventilation protocols

• Workplace cleaning and disinfecting procedures

• Drop-off, pick-up and delivery procedures and guidelines

• Communications and training practices and protocols

In addition to the above, your CPP should also include prevention

protocols and policies that pertain to your specific industry including
the situations where COVID-19 exposure exists for workers and/or
customers. These additional protocols may include implementing the
following types of policies:

• Rules for customers, clients, guests and visitors

• Policies for personal protective equipment (PPE)

• Policies for building access

• Procedures for sanitation and hygiene

• Policies for work clothes and worker handwashing rules

• Protocols for distancing between employees and customers

• Rules for the use of COVID-19 barriers and access control points

• Practices for managing occupancy

• Protocols to limit face-to-face interaction

• Systems for receiving or exchanging payment

9
 Failure to implement a COVID-19 Prevention Plan (CPP) could
result in workplace illnesses that may cause your business
operations to be temporarily closed or otherwise limited.

Considerations for your CPP should include:

• Be prepared to communicate information to your state and/or local

health department in the event of a COVID-19 related outbreak
among your employees.

• Train and communicate with employees, and employee

representatives on the plan and, wherever possible, engage your
tenants and vendors to help ensure that they are sufficiently
prepared.

• Depending on your facility’s size, occupancy or location, you

may want to consider hiring a top-rated security services firm
that specializes in providing the best access control systems and
COVID-19 thermal screening checkpoints.

• Regularly evaluate your facility for compliance with your COVID-19

Prevention Plan and correct deficiencies that you have identified. If
your business is large enough, consider developing a COVID Safety
Team to make sure your employees, tenants and vendors are also
abiding by your plan.

• Investigate all work-related COVID-19 illnesses and determine if

any work-related factors could have contributed to risk of infection.
Update your CPP as needed to prevent further cases.

• Enact a policy that encourages employees to identify and discourage

close contacts (within six feet) between workers and guests. Create
a system for reporting instances of non-compliance. Consider
dismissing employees and asking visitor to leave if they refuse to
comply with the policy.

Retail establishments and restaurants should also refer to state specific

guidelines for their operations. These can typically be found on your home
state’s COVID-19 resource webpages.

10
11
 Train Your Employees on How to Administer
Your COVID-19 Prevention Plan

As states continue to provide guidelines to businesses wanting to

reopen to the public, it is becoming more important to train your
employees on how to implement and administer your plan.

12
 As discussed early, having a COVID-19 Prevention Plan (CPP) in place at your
business location will go a long way to preventing COVID-19 related illnesses from
originating at your location. The following points should be considered when
training your workers, vendors and operations teams:

• Request that all employees and vendors self-screen before coming to your facility,
including temperature and/or symptom checks using CDC guidelines, to prevent
spreading the illness.

• Stress the importance of not coming to work if employees have a frequent cough,
fever, difficulty breathing, chills, muscle pain, headache, sore throat, recent loss
of taste or smell, or if they or someone they live with have been diagnosed with
COVID-19.

• Request that employees and vendors seek medical attention if their symptoms
become severe, including persistent pain or pressure in the chest, confusion, or
bluish lips or face. Details regarding COVID-19 symptoms are available on CDC’s
and WHO’s webpages.

• Require that employees practice frequent handwashing with soap and water,
including scrubbing with soap for 20 seconds (or using hand sanitizer with at
least 60% ethanol or 70% isopropanol when employees cannot get to a sink or
handwashing station) as per CDC guidelines.

• Train employees to adhere to social distancing guidelines, both at work and off
work time to reduce the potential for COVID-19 transmission.

• Regardless of whether you provide them, most states are requiring the use of
face coverings, and you may want to consider their proper use as part of your
training program. Develop a Face Covering Program at your facility. You may
decide to issue face coverings or PPE to your employees or guests. Consider your
state’s guidelines when requiring employees, vendors and guests to practice the
proper use of face coverings. PLEASE NOTE: Basic face coverings are not personal
protective equipment (PPE). According to the CDC and WHO, face coverings can
help protect people near the wearer, but do not replace the need for physical
distancing and frequent handwashing. Employees should wash or sanitize hands
before and after using or adjusting face coverings. Employees should avoid
touching the eyes, nose, and mouth. Face coverings should be washed after each
shift.

• Go beyond your staff and require that temporary or contract workers at the
facility are also properly trained in your COVID-19 prevention policies and have
necessary PPE. Discuss these responsibilities ahead of time with organizations
supplying temporary and/or contract workers.

13
 Create Access Control Measures
and Symptom Screening Checkpoints

Businesses throughout the world are embracing the idea of

access control and visitor screening.

Access controls and COVID-19 body temperature screening at the entry

to a facility can help immensely in deterring potentially symptomatic
visitors from entering your facility and possibly infecting your
employees and/or guests. In the right situation, the effort and expense
of implementing this protocol is typically far outweighed by the overall
reduction in liability associated with putting visitors/staff at risk or
hindering operations due to potential spike in COVID-19 related illness.

The following is list of actions and protocols that can be adopted to

help support the goals of your COVID-19 Prevention Plan:

• Hiring and training a Social Distancing Officer, Thermal Screening

Officer and/or Elevator Control Officer can help further reduce
instances of symptomatic carriers of COVID-19 from entering your
facility. Depending on your company’s size and location, you may
want to consider hiring a leading Security Services Provider that
specializes in thermal screening and access control systems for
COVID-19 to help fulfill this need.

• COVID-19 access control screening protocols can include providing

temperature and/or symptom screenings for all workers at the
beginning of their shift and any vendors, contractors, or other
guests entering the establishment; or could include a policy for self-
screening at home before coming to work.

• Establishing a thermal screening access control point can help

reduce the likelihood of a symptomatic person entering your
establishment. The CDC considers a person to have a fever when he
or she has a measured temperature of 100.4° F (38° C) or greater, or
feels warm to the touch, or gives a history of feeling feverish. Do not
allow anyone exhibiting these signs to enter your facility. Hiring a
Thermal Screening Officer to man this access control point (ex. The
entrance to your building) can help you to enforce your COVID-19
Protection Plan safely, so your team remains unburdened to focus on
your core business operations.

14
• It is important to train your temperature/symptom screener to avoid
close contact with employees and guest to the greatest extent
possible. Both screeners and employees should wear face coverings
for the screening.

• If requiring self-screening at home, which is an appropriate

alternative to providing it at your facility or workplace, ensure that
screening was performed prior to the worker leaving the home for
their shift and to a standard that follows CDC guidelines. (The CDC
website provides a COVID-19 self-checker widget on their website:
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/if-you-are-sick/steps-
when-sick.html)

• Encourage workers who are sick or exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19

to stay home.

• If appropriate, employers should provide and ensure workers use all

required protective equipment, including face coverings and gloves
where necessary.

• Evaluate where you team can use disposable gloves or hand sanitizer
to help alleviate or supplement frequent handwashing. This could
be especially helpful in high touch areas, like cashier and check
out stations or access control stations where workers are screening
guests for symptoms.

• Face coverings are always strongly recommended for employees;

but especially when they are in the vicinity of guest and/or each
other. Workers should have face coverings available and wear them
when interfacing with other workers or the public, including within
retail tenant facilities, in breakrooms and offices, loading docks/
delivery areas, or in a vehicle for work-related travel when traveling
with others. Face coverings must never be shared.

• Businesses like shopping centers, groceries stores, department store

and wholesale clubs should take reasonable measures, including
posting signage in strategic and highly visible locations, to remind
workers, retail tenants, vendors, and the public that face coverings
are required on premises and to maintain social distancing of no less
than 6 feet.

15
 Adopt and Implement
Physical Distancing Guidelines
Limiting face-to-face contact with others is still considered to be the
best way to reduce the spread of COVID-19. Social distancing, also called
“physical distancing,” means keeping space between yourself and other
people outside of your home.

To practice social or physical distancing, it is important to stay at least 6 feet

(about 2 arms’ length) away from other people.
In addition to everyday steps to prevent COVID-19, like frequent
handwashing and covering our mouths and noses with a face covering,
keeping space between ourselves and others is one of the most effective
tools we have to avoid being exposed to the virus and slowing its spread
locally and across the country and the world.

Since people can spread the virus before they know they are sick, it is
important to stay away from others whenever possible, even if you – or they
– have no symptoms. Social distancing is especially important for people
who are at higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19.

Wherever it is possible, it is important to limit close contact between people

in your facility’s indoor and outdoor spaces.

16
Here are some of the important things that you should consider in
adopting physical distancing guidelines as part of your COVID-19
Prevention Plan (CPP):
• Implement measures to ensure physical distancing of at least six feet
between and among workers and customers in all locations. This can
include use of physical partitions or visual cues (e.g., floor markings,
colored tape, or signs to indicate to where workers and/or employees
should stand).

• Take measures at customer service desks or other areas where

physical distancing cannot be maintained to minimize exposure
between workers and customers, such as Plexiglass or other acrylic
glass barriers. Where barriers are not feasible, employees should
wear face coverings and customers are strongly recommended to
wear face coverings as well. Many states and jurisdictions already
require face coverings outside the home. Enforcing these regulations
on your property should be a priority for your operations staff.

• On-property security staff should actively remind and encourage

customers and the public to comply with the physical distancing
standards.

• Consult with a top-rated security services company about hiring

Social Distancing Officers. These security personnel can help
enforce your COVID-19 Prevention Plan while your team focuses on
maintain your regular business operations.

• In an effort to reduce work-related stress, consider offering workers,

especially those who request modified duties, alternative work
options that minimize their contact with customers and other
employees (ex. managing inventory rather than working as a
cashier or managing administrative needs through telework or
videoconferencing).

• Display signage at entrances, customer service counters, or

other appropriate areas to remind workers and shoppers at every
opportunity of the physical distancing requirements, updated foot
traffic patterns, face covering requirements, and modified store
hours.

• Allow customers to order goods online or over the phone. Have

purchased goods available for pick up by creating a clearly marked
curbside or outside pickup point that maintains physical distance by
using visual cues and proper signage.

17
 • If possible, identify strategies to increase pickup and delivery
service options for customers to help minimize in-store contact and
maintain physical distancing, such as online ordering and returns-
processing from shoppers’ vehicles with no direct hand-off of items.
(ex. place items purchased online into a customer’s trunk when
they pull up to your curbside pickup area.)

• Develop and implement controlled foot traffic and crowd

management strategies that enable at least six feet physical
distancing between customers. This can include requiring foot
traffic be one-directional and guiding customers with visual cues,
physical props, and signage. (ex. One-way traffic through grocery
store isles can help reduce the instances of customers passing each
other at close proximity.)

• Provide clearly designated entrances and separate exits, if feasible

and appropriate for the space, to help maintain physical distancing
and support crowd control. Wherever possible, doors should be left
open if they do not open and close automatically.

• Create queue systems for customers outside individual stores while

still maintaining physical distance, if necessary.

• Develop store entry queuing systems that do not disrupt foot

traffic or violate physical distancing requirements. Consider and
encourage alternate means of entry to retail facilities, including
digital reservations for entry and pre-order guidelines.

• Adjust maximum occupancy rules based on the size of indoor

facilities and individual stores to limit the number of people in
the shopping center at one time. Capacity limits should be low
enough to ensure physical distancing but in no case more than
50% maximum occupancy of overall indoor facility capacity. Limit
parking availability, where feasible, to further enforce the revised
maximum occupancy limits.

• Maximum occupancy rules for shopping centers and groceries

should be evaluated to ensure that physical distancing
requirements can be maintained.

• Restaurants allowing outdoor dining should ensure that tables

are spaced in accordance with appropriate physical distancing
requirements or ensure other impermeable barriers are in place.

18
• Shopping center operators should collaborate with retail tenants
and vendors to identify opportunities that make use of unused
or reconfigured real estate for revenue-generating opportunities
in accordance with local regulations and that support physical
distancing requirements. This could include expanding restaurant
dining space in real estate managed by the shopping center
operator. (ex. tenting outdoor promenades or modifying parking lots
to be used for outdoor dining.)

• If appropriate, consider dedicated shopping hours for vulnerable

populations, including seniors and those medically vulnerable,
preferably at a time following a comprehensive facility cleaning.

• Children’s play areas and other amenities like carousels, rides, or

arcades should be operated as per state pandemic guidelines or you
should strongly consider temporarily closing them.

• Chairs, seating, benches and other public spaces should be

reconfigured to enable physical distancing requirements.

• Wherever possible, consider holding meetings over the phone or

via video conferencing software (ex. Zoom, Freeconferencecall.
com, uberconference.com, etc) for employees. If it is not feasible,
adjust staff meetings to ensure physical distancing and use smaller
individual meetings at facilities to maintain physical distancing
guidelines. Place additional limitations on the number of workers
in enclosed areas to ensure at least six feet of separation to limit
transmission of COVID-19.

• Close breakrooms, use barriers, or increase distance between

tables/chairs to separate workers and discourage congregating
during breaks. Where possible, create outdoor break areas with
shade covers and seating that ensures physical distancing. Stagger
employee breaks, in compliance with wage and hour regulations, to
maintain physical distancing protocols.

• Implement physical distancing requirements at loading bays and

move to contactless signatures for deliveries.

• Require vendors who are required to enter the facility have

their employees follow the guidance of local, state and federal
governments regarding wearing face coverings.

19
 Establish Regular Cleaning
and Disinfecting Protocols
Regular cleaning and disinfection of surfaces are necessary for reducing
the potential of people getting sick from bacteria and viruses, including
COVID-19, at your facility. Regular cleaning and disinfecting procedures
should be implemented, including a posted schedule for routine cleaning
and disinfecting of work surfaces, equipment, tools and machinery,
vehicles and areas throughout your facility’s work environment, including
restrooms, employees break rooms, lunch rooms, meeting rooms,
checkout stations, fitting rooms, and drop-off and pick-up locations.

The following points should be considered when establishing your

facility’s regular cleaning and disinfecting protocols during the
COVID-19 pandemic:

• Establish frequent cleaning and disinfecting regimens for high-

touch areas, including phones, keyboards, touch screens, controls,
door handles, elevator panels, railings, copy machines, credit card
readers, and delivery equipment.

• Assign a responsible person for conducting a thorough cleaning in

high traffic areas, such as restrooms, employee break rooms, and
entrances and exits, including doors and door handles, stairways,
escalator handrails, and elevator controls. If you have an elevator
security operator, add routine cleaning and disinfection to their list of
responsibilities.

• Regularly wipe down and disinfect commonly used touchable

surfaces, including benches, counters, ATM PIN pads, computers,
registers, water fountains (spout, button/lever, and nozzle), guardrails,
displays, hand-held devices, shelving, customer assistance call
buttons, handwashing and sanitation facilities, mall seating, touch
screens, facility maps, and vending machines.

• Disconnect or limit public water drinking fountains and post signage

explaining that they are not in service to promote public safety
during the pandemic.

20
• Regularly clean and sanitize shared equipment between each
use, such as time clocks, radios, and headsets for workers as well
as wheelchairs, strollers, mobilized devices, carts, baskets, or other
equipment frequently used by shoppers. Provide additional wipes
or disinfection solution in these areas for customers to access and
disinfect their carts and strollers.

• Avoid sharing audio equipment, phones, tablets, laptops, desks,

pens, and other work supplies wherever possible. Never share
personal protection equipment (PPE), like masks, gloves, ear
protection or eye protection.

• Discontinue shared use of audio headsets or telecommunication

equipment between workers unless the equipment can be
properly disinfected after use. Consult equipment manufacturers to
determine appropriate disinfection steps, particularly for soft, porous
surfaces such as foam earmuffs.

• Provide time for workers to implement cleaning practices during

their shift. Cleaning assignments should be assigned during working
hours as part of the workers’ regular job duties. Procure options for
third-party cleaning companies to assist with your facility’s increased
cleaning demand, as needed.

• Equip customer entrances and exits, promenades, and other

common spaces with proper sanitation products, including hand
sanitizer and/or chemical disinfection wipes. Display signage
indicating where the nearest hand sanitizer dispenser is located.
Check hand sanitizer and wipe dispensers periodically and refill
before they run out.

• Make sure that sanitary stations stay operational and stocked at all
times. Provide additional soap, paper towels, disinfectant wipes and
hand sanitizer when needed.

• Encourage the use of “touchless systems” including credit card only

payments at retail tenant and vendor locations. If possible, consider
installing hands-free devices, including motion sensor lights,
contactless payment systems, automatic faucets, soap, and paper
towel dispensers, and timecard systems.

• Consider installing portable high-efficiency air cleaners, air

purification and filtration systems, upgrading the building’s air filters
to the highest efficiency possible, and/or making other modifications
to increase the quantity of outside air and ventilation in otherwise
poorly ventilated offices and other common spaces.

21
 Chemicals and Disinfectants
to Use Against COVID-19

Use approved disinfection products on the EPA’s List N. The

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is constantly updating a list of
chemicals and products that they consider to be effective for fighting
the COVID-19. They refer to this list as “List N.” When choosing cleaning
chemicals, facility operations teams and employers should use products
on the Environmental Protection Agency’s approved list (List N) and
follow product instructions.

Because SARS-CoV-2 is a new virus, this pathogen is not readily

available for use in commercial laboratory testing to see if a certain
disinfectant product is effective at killing the virus. Therefore, many of
the surface disinfectant products that can be found on List N have not
been tested specifically against SARS-CoV-2, the cause of COVID-19.
However, the EPA expects them to kill the virus because they:

• Demonstrate efficacy (e.g. effectiveness) against a harder-to-kill

virus; or

• Demonstrate efficacy against another type of human coronavirus

similar to SARS-CoV-2.

All surface disinfectants on List N can be used to kill viruses on surfaces

such as counters and doorknobs.

The Environmental Protection Agency’s approved list of disinfection

products for COVID-19 (List N) can be found here:
https://www.epa.gov/pesticide-registration/list-n-disinfectants-use-
against-sars-cov-2-covid-19

Disinfectants labeled to be effective against coronavirus and other

emerging viral pathogens include diluted household bleach solutions (5
tablespoons per gallon of water) and alcohol solutions with at least 70%
alcohol that are appropriate for surfaces. Provide employees training on
manufacturer’s directions and OSHA requirements for safe use. Workers
using cleaners or disinfectants should wear gloves as required by the
product instructions.

22
23
 Develop COVID-19 Response Procedures
for Potentially Sick or At-Risk Individuals
The following recommendations were derived from the World Health
Organization’s (WHO) and CDC guidelines for what to do if someone
becomes ill with suspected COVID-19. More information can be found
here: https://www.who.int/docs/default-source/coronaviruse/advice-for-
workplace-clean-19-03-2020.pdf

Employers should identify and nominate a qualified workplace

coordinator who will be responsible for COVID-19 issues, help develop
plans for implementing infection control procedures, and help assess the
impact of COVID-19 on the workplace, including absenteeism at work.

It is important to have a plan in place in the event that someone, an

employee, visitor, vendor, or customer, becomes ill with suspected
COVID-19 at one of your facilities. This protocol should be developed with
your state and local guidelines in mind and should be added to your
overall COVID-19 Prevention Plan.

In the event of a COVID-19 emergency at your facility (ex. a person

falling sick while on premises), as per the guidance of the World Health
Organization, you should consider isolating the ill person in a room or
area where they are separated from others in the workplace, limiting the
number of people who have contact with the sick person and contacting
the local health authorities.

Consider how to identify persons who may be at risk, and support them,
without inviting stigma and discrimination into your workplace. This could
include persons who have recently travelled to an area reporting cases,
or other personnel who have conditions that put them at higher risk of
serious illness (e.g. diabetes, heart and lung disease, older age).

Your local or national public health authority may be able to offer support
and guidance in developing your plan. Reach out to your local public
health authority ad explain that you are developing your COVID-19
response plan and seek their input.
Sick workers should stay home or go home if they develop symptoms
during the workday.

Workers who have symptoms (e.g., fever, cough, or shortness of breath)

should notify their supervisor and stay home or go home.
Sick workers should follow CDC-recommended steps. Workers should not
return to work until they meet all the criteria to end home isolation, in
consultation with healthcare providers.

24
Employers should:

• Close off areas used by the person who is sick.

• Clean and disinfect a sick worker’s workspace. Wait 24 hours or,

if 24 hours is not possible, as long as practical before you clean or
disinfect.

• Open outside doors and windows to increase air circulation in the

exposed area, if reasonable given food safety regulations.

• Collect information about the worker’s contacts among co-workers,

up to 2 days prior to symptom onset, to identify other workers who
could be considered exposed.

25
 If a worker is confirmed infected, inform fellow workers of their possible
exposure to COVID-19 in the workplace but maintain confidentiality as
required by the Americans with Disabilities Act. The employer should
instruct fellow workers about how to proceed based on the CDC Public
Health Recommendations for Community-Related Exposure.

Promote regular teleworking across your organization. If there is an

outbreak of COVID-19 in your community, the health authorities may
advise people to avoid public transport and crowded places. Teleworking
will help your business keep operating while your employees stay safe.

Develop a contingency and business continuity plan for an outbreak

in the communities where your business operates. The plan will help
prepare your organization for the possibility of an outbreak of COVID-19
in your workplaces or community. It may also be valid for other health
emergencies.

The plan should address how to keep your business running even if a
significant number of employees, contractors and suppliers cannot come
to your place of business - either due to local restrictions on travel or
because they are ill.

Communicate to your employees and contractors about the plan and

make sure they are aware of what they need to do – or not do – under
the plan. Emphasize key points such as the importance of staying away
from work even if they have only mild symptoms or have had to take
simple medications (e.g. paracetamol, ibuprofen) which may mask the
symptoms.

Be sure your plan addresses the mental health and social consequences
of a case of COVID-19 in the workplace or in the community and offer
information and support.
For small and medium-sized businesses without in-house staff health and
welfare support, develop partnerships and plans with your local health
and social service providers in advance of any emergency.

26
For further information, consult the follow CDC articles:

• Interim Guidance for Implementing Safety Practices for Critical

Infrastructure Workers Who May Have Had Exposure to a Person
with Suspected or Confirmed COVID-19: https://www.cdc.gov/
coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/critical-workers/implementing-
safety-practices.html,

• What to Do If You Are Sick: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-

ncov/if-you-are-sick/steps-when-sick.html, and

• Cleaning and Disinfecting Your Facility: https://www.cdc.gov/

coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/disinfecting-building-facility.
html

Businesses are strongly encouraged to coordinate with state and local

health officials so timely and accurate information can guide appropriate
responses. Local conditions will influence the decisions that public health
officials make regarding community-level strategies. CDC has guidance
for mitigation strategies according to the level of community transmission
or impact of COVID-19.

For more information, visit:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/downloads/php/CDC-
Activities-Initiatives-for-COVID-19-Response.pdf

27
 Re-Opening Retail Food Establishments
During the COVID-19 Pandemic
The following information can be found at: https://www.fda.gov/food/
food-safety-during-emergencies/best-practices-re-opening-retail-food-
establishments-during-covid-19-pandemic

The FDA has provided a food safety re-opening checklist for previously
closed retail food establishments or those that have been open with
limited service related to the COVID-19 pandemic. This checklist addresses
key food safety practices for retail food establishments to consider when
re-opening and restarting operations.

The full checklist can be downloaded at: https://www.fda.gov/

media/137867/download

28
Facility Operations

• Are signs posted on how to stop the spread of COVID-19 and

promote everyday protective measures?

• Are the premises in good order, including fully operational utilities

and equipment? (e.g. electrical, lighting, gas services, and proper
ventilation; hood systems for fire prevention; garbage and refuse
areas; and toilet facilities)

• Are all areas of the food establishment, including restrooms and

waiting areas, properly cleaned, stocked, sanitized, or disinfected, as
appropriate?

• Are the facilities checked for pest infestation or harborage, and are
all pest control measures functioning?

• Are ventilation systems including air ducts and vents in the facility
clean, free of mold, and operating properly?

• Is there increased circulation of outdoor air (as much as possible)

by, for example, opening windows and doors or using fans? (Do not
open windows and doors if they pose a safety risk to children using
the facility.)

• Are high touch self-service containers and items requiring frequent

hand contact removed from use, or appropriately washed, cleaned
and sanitized, and changed after each customer/party is served (e.g.
seating covers, table cloths, linen napkins, throw rugs, condiments
such as ketchup bottles and salt/pepper shakers, and reusable
menus)?

Water, Plumbing, and Ice

• Is potable water available throughout the facility?

• Are the water and sewage lines working?

• Is there hot and cold water?

• Are all water lines flushed, including equipment water lines and
connections, according to the manufacturer’s instructions?

• Are ice machines and ice bins cleaned and sanitized?

29
 Food Contact and Non-food Contact Surfaces
(Clean, Disinfect, Sanitize)

• Are necessary sanitizers and disinfectants that meet EPA’s criteria for
use against SARS-CoV-2 available and used per label instructions to
clean and disinfect the facility during hours of operation?

• Are food contact surfaces and counters cleaned and sanitized?

(Wash, rinse, and sanitize food contact surfaces, food preparation
surfaces, and beverage equipment after use.)

• Are common use areas such as restrooms being cleaned and

disinfected more frequently?

• Are high-touch areas and equipment cleaned and disinfected (e.g.

door knobs, display cases, equipment handles, check-out counters,
order kiosks, and grocery cart handles)?

• Are sufficient stocks of single-service and single-use articles (e.g.

tableware, carryout utensils, bread wrappers, and plastic wrap)
available? If not, ensure all reusable food service items are handled
with gloves and washed with dish soap and hot water or in a
dishwasher. Employees should wash their hands after removing
their gloves and after directly handling used food service items.

• Are staff properly trained on cleaning procedures to ensure safe and

correct application of disinfectants?

• Has a disinfection schedule or routine plan been developed?

Ensure sufficient stocks of cleaning and disinfecting supplies to
accommodate ongoing cleaning and disinfection.

Food Temperature Control

• Are all coolers, freezers, and hot and cold holding units
functioning?

• Are all coolers, freezers, and hot and cold holding units clean,
sanitized, and protected from contamination?

• Are calibrated thermometers available and accurate to check

equipment and product temperatures to ensure food safety/HACCP
plans are executed as designed?

30
Product Inspection, Rotation

• Has all food been examined for spoilage, damage, expiration, or

evidence of tampering or pest activity? If needed, was such food
appropriately discarded?

• Is food properly labeled and organized, such that receiving date and
rotation is evident?

• Are all food, packaging, and chemicals properly stored and protected
from cross contamination?

• Has contact been made with suppliers in the supply chain to ensure
deliveries are scheduled and able to be fulfilled?

Washing Equipment

• Is your 3-compartment sink clean and equipped with detergent and

sanitizer?

• Is your dishware/barware washer clean and functioning and

equipped with detergent and sanitizer (single temperature machine,
165°F) or reaches 180°F rinse (high temperature)?

• Do you have sanitizer test strips available and are the test strips
appropriate for the sanitizer being used?

Handwashing Stations

• Have you trained and reminded employees of effective hand

hygiene practices including washing hands with soap and water for
at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom, before
eating, and after blowing their nose, coughing, or sneezing?

• Are all the handwashing sinks accessible and fully stocked (e.g. soap,
paper towels, hand wash sign, and trash bins)?

• Are paper towels and trash cans available in the bathrooms so doors
can be opened and closed without touching handles directly?

• Are all the handwashing sinks functional and able to reach 100⁰F
minimum?

• Have you considered using hand sanitizers (minimum 60% alcohol),

as appropriate, in multiple locations to encourage hand hygiene by
both customers and employees to supplement hand washing?

31
 Employee Health / Screening

• Do you have a protocol to check employee health and personal

hygiene practices within your food establishment?

• Are you following CDC guidance and practices for employee health
checks/screenings?

• Have you checked CDC and local regulatory/health authority

guidance for employees returning back to work?

• Is there a plan to monitor and respond to a higher than normal level

of absenteeism?

• Is there a plan or policy for, and an adequate supply of, personal

protective equipment (PPE) and/or cloth face coverings? Cloth face
coverings should only be used if PPE is not required, and changed as
needed if worn.

Social Distancing

• Has the facility taken measures (e.g. tape on floors/sidewalks,

partitions, and signage on walls) to minimize face-to-face contact
that allows, to the extent possible, at least a 6-foot distance between
workers, customers, and visitors?

• Have you limited offering self-serve food or drink options, such

as buffets, salad bars, and drink stations? As local regulatory/
health authorities lift levels of restrictions, limit use with additional
monitoring.

• Have you restricted the number of employees in shared spaces,

including kitchens, break rooms, and offices to maintain at least a
6-foot distance between people?

32
33
 State-by-State COVID-19 Restriction
Summaries and Updates
AARP.com has been a great resource for state-by-state updates on
coronavirus pandemic statewide regulations, guidance and restrictions.
The following state-by-state points are excerpts from the AARP
Coronavirus State Restrictions webpage updated on June 17th, 2020.

For the most updated information, please visit: https://www.aarp.org/

politics-society/government-elections/info-2020/coronavirus-state-
restrictions.html

34
Alabama: At the direction of Gov. Kay Ivey, the state health officer
has extended the safer-at-home order to include the reopening of
entertainment venues, such as theaters and bowling alleys. Athletic
activities also can resume. Social distancing and sanitation measures
must be followed. Nonwork gatherings are permitted, but individuals
from different households must maintain a 6-foot distance from one
another. Restaurants, bars and breweries can begin limited dining-
in services. Gyms and hair salons can also reopen, as long as social
distancing measures are taken. Retail stores must continue to limit
occupancy and implement sanitation and social distancing practices.
Beaches are open, but patrons must practice social distancing.

Alaska: Gov. Mike Dunleavy modified a travel mandate that requires those
arriving in Alaska to show a negative COVID-19 test, agree to be tested on
arrival or opt to self-quarantine for 14 days. Critical infrastructure workers
are exempt. Previously, Dunleavy permitted all businesses, including
restaurants, hair salons, gyms, museums and entertainment venues to
reopen at 100 percent capacity. Safeguards are recommended. In group
gatherings, individuals from separate households are encouraged to
maintain a 6-foot distance from one another.

Arizona: Gov. Doug Ducey issued a stay-healthy order outlining guidance

for Arizona’s businesses to gradually reopen. The state stay-at-home order
expired May 15. Gyms and spas could reopen May 13, and movie theaters
and casinos could reopen May 15. Health precautions and physical
distancing measures are recommended, such as having employees wear
face masks. Older adults and other high-risk individuals are encouraged to
stay at home. Previously, Ducey announced that restaurants could resume
in-dining services but should implement safeguards and shouldn’t allow
parties larger than 10.

Arkansas: Gov. Asa Hutchinson issued an order protecting businesses

from liability for damages or injury relating to coronavirus exposure. There
is an exception for “willful, malicious or intentional misconduct.” The
state moved to Phase 2 of its reopening strategy on June 15. Restaurants
can expand capacity for dine-in services. Gyms, fitness centers, hair
salons and spas can operate with safety precautions in place. State-park
visitor centers and shops can reopen, and residents can rent cabins and
lodges. Hutchinson ordered a ban on gatherings of more than 10 people
in confined indoor or outdoor spaces (except for those living in a single
household). Get-togethers in unenclosed outdoor spaces, such as trails
and golf courses, are permitted, as are those in places of worship, but
social distancing is advised.

35
 California: Continuing to modify a stay-at-home order for the state’s 40
million residents, Gov. Gavin Newsom announced that movie theaters,
bowling alleys and other family entertainment venues could reopen
June 12 under strict guidance. Previously, he reopened hair salons and
barbershops in approved counties, as well as restaurants for in-service
dining in approved counties. Retail stores and outdoor museums are also
permitted to resume operations with restrictions. Businesses providing
essential services (gas stations, pharmacies, food stores, banks and
laundry operations) remain open. Nail salons, tattoo parlors and theme
parks are among businesses that remain closed. Some beaches are open
for active recreation only. Newsom extended an order through July 28
that allows local government officials to halt evictions of renters who are
affected by the pandemic.
Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti ordered people to wear a face covering
when outside their homes.

Colorado: Gov. Jared Polis issued an order permitting workplaces to

deny service or admission to customers who aren’t wearing a face mask.
Previously, he modified a safer-at-home order, encouraging residents
65 and older and other vulnerable individuals to stay at home but no
longer requiring it. The order encourages outdoor recreation but prohibits
gatherings in groups larger than 10. Restaurants can resume dine-in
services at 50 percent capacity. Retail stores can now allow customers
inside, with limits in place. Hair salons and other personal-care businesses
can resume services, also with limits. Cannabis and liquor stores remain
open.

Connecticut: Gov. Ned Lamont announced Phase 2 of the state’s

reopening plan will begin June 17 ahead of Father’s Day. Restaurants will
be permitted to resume dining-in services with restrictions, and gyms will
also be allowed to reopen with restrictions. Previously, Lamont allowed
hair salons, barbershops and casinos to reopen with precautions in place.
Lamont has increased the number of people allowed to gather indoors
for social and recreational purposes to 10, and outdoors to 25. Religious
services that meet indoors must limit gatherings to 100 people or 25
percent capacity, whichever is less. Lamont ordered people to wear a face
mask in public when a 6-foot distance from others cannot be maintained.

Delaware: Gov. John Carney announced a rolling reopening of the state

economy. As of June 15, the state’s reopening plan moved to Phase 2.
Retail stores, restaurants and most other businesses can increase capacity
from 30 percent to 60 percent. Exercise facilities, hair salons, nail salons
and other personal care businesses must remain at 30 percent capacity.
Outdoor gatherings are capped at 250 people and health precautions
must be in place. Indoor gatherings are capped at 50 people, but those
who don’t live within the same household should social distance. Beaches

36
reopened May 22. Carney has ordered residents over age 12 to wear a face
covering when in public places, including grocery stores and on mass
transit.

District of Columbia: Mayor Muriel Bowser signed an order stating that

as of May 29, D.C. residents are no longer required to stay at home. People
must continue to practice social distancing, and gatherings of more than
10 people are still prohibited. People should wear face coverings in public
areas. Restaurants can reopen for outdoor dining, but tables must be
spaced 6 feet apart, among other restrictions. Nonessential retail stores
can offer pickup and delivery only. Hair salons and barbershops may
reopen, but customers must make appointments, and other safeguards
must be in place. Gyms, nail salons, sporting venues, yoga studios and
nightclubs are among nonessential businesses that must remain closed.
Walking, biking, tennis, golf and other outdoor activities are permitted,
but people should adhere to social distancing. Previously, Bowser and the
National Park Service closed roads in three national park sites to traffic
so that people can use them for exercise: Beach Drive in Rock Creek Park
and roads in Anacostia Park and Fort Dupont Park.

Florida: Gov. Ron DeSantis signed an order that permitted most counties
to begin Phase 2 of their reopening plan on June 5. Restaurants and
bars can offer indoor service at 50 percent capacity. Movie theaters may
also reopen at 50 percent capacity. Gatherings of up to 50 people are
permitted. DeSantis modified a travel mandate. It requires most people
who arrive in Florida from Connecticut, New Jersey, New York or Louisiana
to self-isolate for 14 days. Students traveling for academic work or activity
are exempt.
Miami-Dade County Mayor Carlos Giménez ordered visitors and
employees of grocery stores, restaurants, pharmacies and other essential
businesses to wear masks. Several other cities in Florida have a similar
requirement.

Georgia: Gov. Brian Kemp signed an order that loosens restrictions on

businesses. As of June 16, restaurants no longer have to limit the number
of customers. Hair salons and other personal-care businesses can accept
walk-ins. Gatherings of up to 50 people are allowed but individuals
must maintain a 6-foot distance from each other. Starting July 1, live
performance venues may reopen with restrictions. People 65 and older
no longer need to shelter in place, but other at-risk individuals do, such as
those with severe lung or heart disease.

Hawaii: Gov. David Ige announced that the state is under an Act With
Care phase of its reopening that allows many businesses to resume
operations with restrictions. Large venues, bars and clubs must remain
closed. A travel mandate remains in effect that requires all people
entering Hawaii from out of state to self-quarantine for 14 days except

37
 for those who perform emergency response or critical infrastructure
functions. Those traveling between islands will no longer have to self-
quarantine as of June 16. Previously, Ige issued an order requiring people
to wear a face mask while inside an essential business or while waiting in
line to enter one.
Kauai Mayor Derek Kawakami announced that he will require everyone
over age 5 to wear a mask outdoors. Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell also
issued an order that anyone on Oahu entering an essential business must
wear a mask.

Idaho: Gov. Brad Little announced that Idaho can move into Phase 4
of its reopening plan. Gatherings of any size are permitted, but people
should practice social distancing and follow sanitizing recommendations.
Businesses can continue to resume operations and should also adhere to
social distancing and sanitizing recommendations.

Illinois: Gov. J.B. Pritzker announced a five-phase plan to reopen the

economy. The state is currently in phase 3. Restaurants can now offer
outdoor seating. Hair salons, gyms and other nonessential businesses
can also reopen with safety measures and other restrictions in place.
Gatherings are limited to 10 people. Anyone over age 2 must wear a face
mask when indoors at a public space or when outdoors at a public place
where a 6-foot distance between people cannot be maintained.

Indiana: Gov. Eric Holcomb signed an order outlining Stage 4 guidelines

for the state’s reopening plan. Bars, nightclubs, movie theaters and
other entertainment venues can reopen at 50 percent capacity, among
other restrictions. Restaurants can operate at 75 percent capacity; retail
stores at full capacity. Previously, hair salons, gyms, hotels, governmental
offices and other professional businesses were permitted to reopen.
Reopened businesses are required to implement a safety plan that
addresses sanitation and social distancing. Gatherings of up to 250
people are permitted, indoors or outdoors, provided that social distancing
practices are in place. Adult day care facilities can allow outdoor visitation.
Individuals 65 or older and other vulnerable populations are encouraged
to remain cautious when at work or out in the community. Face masks are
still recommended for trips outside the home.

Iowa: Gov. Kim Reynolds signed a proclamation permitting more

businesses to reopen on a limited basis. Casinos, amusement parks and
bowling alleys were among the businesses most recently allowed to
reopen with restrictions. Previously, Reynolds permitted movie theaters,
museums, hair salons, barbershops, gyms, retail stores, massage parlors
and other nonessential businesses to resume operations if safety
precautions are taken. Reynolds also allowed restaurants to reopen with
a customer limit and a requirement to space parties 6 feet apart. Farmers
markets can also operate, but only food vendors are permitted to sell, and

38
social distancing measures must be in place. The governor has permitted
social gatherings of more than 10 people if social distancing measures are
implemented.

Kansas: Gov. Laura Kelly announced that counties should come up

with their own plans to reopen businesses. A previous statewide plan
to restart the economy in phases offers guidance, but counties aren’t
required to follow it. The state Department of Health mandated a 14-day
home quarantine for all Kansans who traveled to a state with widespread
transmission. The mandate also applies to anyone who traveled
internationally or on a cruise ship on or after March 15.

Kentucky: Gov. Andy Beshear announced that on June 29 bars will be

permitted to reopen and groups of 50 people or fewer will be permitted
to gather. Currently, fitness centers, bowling alleys, retail stores and movie
theaters can operate with restrictions. Restaurants are permitted to
resume indoor dining services with a limit on the number of customers
at any one time. Groups of 10 or fewer can also gather. Beshear has
recommended people wear masks in public places but stopped short of
requiring it.

Louisiana: Gov. John Bel Edwards announced the state will move to
Phase 2 of its reopening plan on June 5. Under this phase, hair salons,
gyms, theaters, churches, museums, restaurants, bars and breweries
are among the businesses that can increase capacity to 50 percent
occupancy. Bars and breweries without food permits will be permitted to
reopen with restrictions. Amusement parks, concert halls and children’s
indoor play centers are among businesses that must remain closed. State
buildings began to reopen May 15.

Maine: Gov. Janet Mills modified a travel mandate that requires those
visiting Maine who plan to stay in a lodging establishment to show a
negative COVID-19 test or opt to self-quarantine for 14 days. Previously,
Mills signed an executive order further loosening restrictions on
businesses and permitting gatherings of up to 50 people. Nail salons,
gyms and fitness centers can open in some counties starting June 12.
Face coverings are mandatory in public spaces where social distancing
cannot be maintained. Under a safer-at-home order, people over 60 are
encouraged to limit interactions with those outside their household but
aren’t required to stay at home. Campgrounds have been permitted to
reopen with safety precautions. Hair salons, retail stores and restaurants
can reopen with limits.

Maryland: Gov. Larry Hogan signed an order updating Phase 2 of the

state’s reopening plan. Restaurants can offer in-dining services at
50 percent capacity, among other restrictions. Outdoor amusement
businesses can also reopen with restrictions. Religious facilities can

39
 reopen, but must limit occupancy to 50 percent. Indoor gyms and other
fitness studios can reopen June 19, along with malls and arcades. Senior
centers and theaters are among businesses that remain closed. Hogan
has ordered people to wear a face covering in retail businesses and food
establishments, and on public transportation.

Massachusetts: Gov. Charlie Baker announced that as of June 8, the

state can begin Phase 2 of its reopening plan. Restaurants can resume
outdoor table service. Retail stores can reopen but must limit the
number of customers. Hotels can also begin to offer accommodations
but cannot have events in meeting rooms or ballrooms. Close-contact
businesses such as nail salons must remain closed. Previously, Baker
ordered everyone over age 2 to wear a face mask in public places,
including grocery stores and taxis. Gatherings of more than 10 people are
prohibited. Hair, pet and car-washing services could reopen as of May 25
with restrictions.

Michigan: Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed an order permitting certain

regions to move to stage five of the state’s reopening plan on June 10. Hair
salons, gyms, indoor theaters and similar establishments are permitted to
reopen with restrictions. In stage five, outdoor gatherings of up to 250 are
permitted and indoor gatherings of up to 50 are permitted. For regions
still in stage four, hair salons and other personal care businesses can
reopen June 15. Outdoor gatherings of up to 100 people are permitted and
indoor gatherings are limited to 10. Previously, Whitmer permitted retail
stores and restaurants to reopen statewide with restrictions. Individuals
must wear a face covering when inside an enclosed business or public
space.

Minnesota: Gov. Tim Walz announced gyms, theaters, concert halls

and museums are among businesses permitted to reopen June 10 with
occupancy limits. He also said restaurants could resume indoor dining
June 10, but people must make reservations and other restrictions apply.
Indoor gatherings will still be capped at 10 people, but outdoor gatherings
of up to 25 people will be permitted. Previously, he allowed personal-care
services — like hair and nail salons — to reopen with safety and sanitation
practices in place. Walz also issued an order permitting weddings, funerals
and worship services to resume, but people not in the same household
must maintain a 6-foot distance, among other restrictions. Retail stores
can allow people inside but must limit the number of customers.

Mississippi: Gov. Tate Reeves issued an order permitting all businesses

to reopen as long as restrictions are in place to prevent the spread of
COVID-19. Elderly and vulnerable individuals are encouraged to continue
to stay at home but are not required to. In places where social distancing
isn’t possible, group gatherings are capped at 50 people if outdoors and

40
20 people if indoors. If people can maintain a 6-foot distance from one
another, outdoor group gatherings are capped at 100 and indoor at 50.

Missouri: Gov. Mike Parson announced that the state will fully reopen
June 16. A press release issued by the governor’s office said, “All statewide
restrictions will be lifted, though local officials will still have the authority
to put further rules, regulations, or ordinances in place.” Parson
encouraged people to continue to practice social distancing and take
precautions, such as practicing good hygiene and avoiding large crowds.

Montana: Gov. Steve Bullock directed the state’s economy to reopen

in phases. Phase two began June 1. All businesses can operate and
should implement social distancing. Gyms, fitness centers, pools, movie
theaters and restaurants can increase capacity to 75 percent. People are
encouraged to maintain a 6-foot distance from others when in public
and avoid gathering in groups of more than 50. People over 65 and other
vulnerable populations are encouraged to stay at home. Senior centers
and assisted living facilities cannot allow visitors.

Nebraska: Gov. Pete Ricketts announced that most regions of the state
can move to Phase 3 of the reopening plan on June 22. That means that
restaurants and bars can operate at full capacity, but parties must be
limited to eight people. Gyms, hair salons and similar businesses can
operate at 75 percent capacity. Indoor gatherings of up to 50 percent
occupancy are permitted but cannot exceed 10,000 people. Outdoor
gatherings of up to 75 percent occupancy are allowed, up to 10,000
people.
For regions still under Phase 2, movies theaters and bars can reopen at 50
percent capacity, with social distancing restrictions in place. Restaurants
can resume in-person dining but must limit customers and seat parties
at least 6 feet apart. Hair salons, tattoo parlors and similar personal-care
businesses can reopen, limiting customers to 10 at a time.
Anyone who tests positive for COVID-19 or who is experiencing symptoms
must self-quarantine for 14 days. Ricketts also recently signed an order
waiving the requirement that adults 72 or older must renew a driver’s
license in person.

Nevada: Gov. Steve Sisolak signed an order directing the state to enter
Phase 2 of its reopening plan on May 29. People are encouraged to stay
at home but aren’t required to do so. Gatherings of more than 50 people
are prohibited, and people are encouraged to telework, if possible.
Restaurants were permitted to resume dine-in services with sanitation
and social distancing guidelines under Phase 1. Now bars and breweries
can also reopen with restrictions. Retail stores can allow customers on-
site but must limit capacity. Most other business can also reopen with
restrictions, such as movie theaters, bowling alleys, gyms and hair salons.

41
 Nightclubs and adult entertainment facilities remain closed. Casinos
could reopen June 4.

New Hampshire: Gov. Chris Sununu permitted the state’s stay-at-home

order to expire June 15. Restaurants can resume both indoor and outdoor
dining services, but tables should be spaced 6 feet apart, among other
guidelines. Gyms can reopen at 50 percent capacity. Previously, Sununu
permitted retail stores, hair salons, barbershops and similar businesses
to reopen with restrictions. He reopened all seacoast beaches and lifted
the restrictions on certain activities, such as sunbathing and picnicking.
Hotels could reopen June 5, but out-of-state travelers must meet self-
quarantine restrictions.

New Jersey: Gov. Phil Murphy lifted a stay-at-home order and signed
an order, effective immediately, permitting indoor gatherings of up to
50 people or 25 percent of the room’s capacity (whichever is smaller).
People must wear face coverings and practice social distancing. Outdoor
gatherings of up to 100 people are permitted, though attendees must
maintain a 6-foot distance from one another. On June 15 restaurants can
resume outdoor dining, and retail stores can have a limited number of
customers inside. On June 22 hair salons and barbershops can resume
services. Movie theaters and other entertainment venues must remain
closed. Previously, Murphy announced that as of July 6, schools can have
outdoor graduation ceremonies that incorporate social distancing and
that professional sports teams can train and compete if safety protocols
are followed. Earlier, the governor ordered all residents to wear a cloth
mask in grocery stores and in other essential retail businesses.

New Mexico: Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham announced a limited reopening

for certain businesses. Restaurants can resume indoor service at 50
percent capacity, and breweries can resume outdoor service, also at
half capacity. Gyms, hair salons and other close-contact businesses may
reopen with restrictions. Previously, the governor permitted retail stores
to reopen at limited capacity and state parks to reopen for day use.
Individuals are required to wear face masks in public except when eating,
drinking or exercising. Lujan Grisham also ordered any travelers arriving in
New Mexico by air to self-quarantine for 14 days.

New York: Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced that regions that meet
certain criteria can reopen under Phase 3 of a multiphase plan. Under this
phase, restaurants can resume indoor service at 50 percent capacity and
gatherings of up to 25 people are permitted. Under Phase 2, retail stores,
hair salons and barbershops are among business that can reopen with
restrictions. Restaurants can offer outdoor dining in addition to takeout
or delivery service. Gyms, movie theaters and bowling alleys are among
businesses that remain closed.
New York City entered Phase 1 of the reopening plan on June 8, enabling

42
construction and agricultural businesses to reopen and retail stores to offer
in-store pickup service. The governor also permitted elective surgeries to
resume in New York City. Hair salons, nail salons, barbershops and tattoo
parlors must remain closed. Gatherings of up to 10 people are allowed if
social distancing is practiced.
Previously, Cuomo permitted professional sports leagues to begin training
camps, with safeguards in place. He cleared the way for marinas, boatyards
and private golf courses to reopen if social distancing measures are
implemented. State beaches are open. Anyone over age 2 must wear a face
mask in public if social distancing cannot be maintained. The governor
also issued an order permitting businesses to deny entry to anyone who
is not wearing a face mask. He increased the fine for not following social
distancing guidelines from $500 to $1,000.

North Carolina: Gov. Roy Cooper lifted the stay-at-home order and moved
the state to a safer-at-home plan. Residents are still encouraged to stay in
and work from home as much as possible. Social distancing and face masks
are recommended when outside the home. Restaurants and retail stores
can operate but must limit the number of customers. Checkout lines and
other high-traffic areas must mark off 6-foot increments of spacing. Hair
salons and other personal-care businesses can reopen with restrictions.
Small gatherings (20 or fewer people for outdoor gatherings and 10 or fewer
for indoor gatherings) are permitted if social distancing can be maintained.
Entertainment and fitness venues, including gyms, remain closed. The order
lasts through June 26.

North Dakota: Gov. Doug Burgum signed an order encouraging people

to follow the state’s Smart Restart plan. It recommends that restaurants,
cafés and similar food establishments operate at 75 percent capacity. Hair
salons and other personal-care businesses should operate with sanitation
measures in place. Gyms and fitness centers that hold classes should follow
social distancing practices.

Ohio: Gov. Mike DeWine announced adjustments to a health advisory on

continuing the reopening of the state’s economy. Gyms and other fitness
venues can reopen if they follow safety standards. Restaurants can offer
table service indoors, with restrictions. Retail stores may reopen, but certain
sanitation and social distancing practices must be implemented. Hair
salons and other close-care businesses can reopen, provided they abide
by strict sanitation rules. Nonessential medical procedures may resume,
and nonessential offices, construction and manufacturing businesses
may restart operations. Everyone using shared outdoor space must keep a
distance of at least 6 feet except for family members. Gatherings of more
than 10 people are prohibited.

Oklahoma: Gov. Kevin Stitt signed an order allowing long-term care facilities
to accept visitors under the state’s phased reopening plan. Phase 3, which

43
 began June 1, allows summer camps to open. Workplaces no longer have
to restrict the number of staff members. Hair salons and other personal-
care businesses can take walk-in clients. Businesses should implement
sanitation and social distancing practices. Travelers from six states —
California, Connecticut, Louisiana, New Jersey, New York and Washington
— must self-quarantine for 14 days upon entering Oklahoma. Some cities
require people to wear a face covering when in public.

Oregon: Gov. Kate Brown announced that some counties may enter
phase two of the state’s reopening plan June 5. Under phase two, offices
can reopen with social distancing measures in place. The curfew for
restaurants and bars is extended to midnight. In-person gatherings of up
to 100 people are permitted if outside and up to 50 people if inside.
For counties still under phase one, restaurants and bars can resume
indoor dining, but tables must be placed 6 feet apart; parties are limited
to 10 or fewer people; and a 10 p.m. curfew applies. Salons, spas and gyms
are among businesses allowed to reopen, but with restrictions. In-person
gatherings are capped at 25 people.

Pennsylvania: Gov. Tom Wolf let a stay-at-home order expire June 4 for
counties that have remained under it during the state’s phased reopening
plan. In counties in the yellow phase, restaurants can offer outdoor dining
with limits. In counties in the green phase, eateries can provide indoor
or outdoor dining service, also with limits. Gyms, hair salons, nail salons,
tattoo parlors and other close-contact businesses can reopen in green-
phase counties, with restrictions, but such businesses remain closed in
yellow-phase counties.
Gatherings of more than 250 people – either indoors or outdoors – are
prohibited in green-phase counties, and gatherings of more than 25
are prohibited in yellow-phase counties. The governor announced that
the tollbooths along the Pennsylvania Turnpike will stop taking cash.
Previously, the state Department of Health made face masks mandatory
for customers and employees of businesses that provide in-person
services.
The governor’s office website lists which phase — green, yellow or red —
applies to each county.

Rhode Island: Gov. Gina Raimondo announced further plans to reopen

the state’s economy. Restaurants can offer limited indoor or outdoor
dining. Retail stores can resume operations with capacity limits. Houses
of worship can reopen at 25 percent capacity. Close-contact businesses,
such as gyms and hair salons, can also reopen with restrictions. Social
gatherings of more than 15 people are prohibited outside or inside.
Previously, Raimondo permitted elective medical procedures to resume
and some state parks to reopen. She ordered individuals over age 2 to
wear a face covering in public spaces, whether indoors or outdoors. Face
masks are also required when using taxis, ride-share vehicles or similar

44
transportation services. Anyone arriving in Rhode Island from an area with
a stay-at-home order still in effect must self-quarantine for 14 days.

South Carolina: Gov. Henry McMaster has issued an order allowing

entertainment venues, such as museums and bingo halls, and
recreational and athletic facilities to reopen with restrictions. Previously,
he released an order permitting restaurants to offer indoor service if
they space tables 6 to 8 feet apart and meet other social distancing
requirements. McMaster has allowed clothing, furniture and jewelry
stores, bookstores and other nonessential businesses to reopen, with
limits on the number of customers at one time. Gyms, hair salons, spas
and other close-contact businesses have also been permitted to reopen in
a limited capacity. Theaters and nightclubs remain closed. McMaster gave
the go-ahead to reopen beaches but left the decision to local authorities.

South Dakota: Gov. Kristi Noem signed an order putting the state’s “Back
to Normal” plan in effect. The plan encourages employers to sanitize
high-traffic areas and screen employees for illness. Retail businesses
should operate in a manner that promotes social distancing and should
consider limiting the number of customers inside their stores. The plan
also encourages, but doesn’t require, older adults and other vulnerable
individuals to stay at home.

Tennessee: Under the direction of Gov. Bill Lee, the state’s economic
recovery group issued updated guidelines for businesses as they
reopen. It recommends that restaurants space tables 6 feet apart and
limit parties to 10 people, among other restrictions. Retail stores should
limit customers, and gyms, hair salons, spas and similar close-contact
businesses should implement strict social distancing and sanitation
practices. Amusement parks, movie theaters and other large venues can
also reopen but should separate people from different households or
small groups by 6 feet and encourage customers to wear masks, among
other precautions. Previously, Lee issued an order permitting groups of
up to 50 to gather. People not within the same household should practice
social distancing.

Texas: Gov. Greg Abbott signed an order permitting businesses to

operate at 50 percent capacity, effective June 3. The occupancy limits
don’t apply to worship services, government operations, youth camps
or many outdoor events. Hair salons, nail salons and other personal-care
businesses don’t have an occupancy limit, but workstations must be
spaced 6 feet apart. As of June 12, restaurants could expand capacity to 75
percent.

Utah: Gov. Gary Herbert signed an order moving most counties in

the state to its yellow low-risk protocols. All businesses can reopen if
precautions are taken. Restaurants must space tables 6 feet apart.

45
 When playing sports, participants should be checked for symptoms. People
are encouraged to wear face masks when in public spaces. Private gatherings
of groups with 50 or fewer people are allowed. Previously, Herbert ordered all
people entering Utah to disclose their travel plans.

Vermont: Gov. Phil Scott announced that restaurants could resume limited
indoor seating. Previously, he permitted hair salons and barbershops to reopen,
but they must take appointments and limit occupancy. Hotels, inns, bed-and-
breakfasts and other lodging areas could also resume operations beginning May
22, but out-of-state travelers must follow a self-quarantine mandate. Previously,
Scott allowed manufacturing and construction businesses to reopen if strict
social distancing measures are enforced. Indoor or outdoor social gatherings of
25 or fewer people are permitted.

Virginia: Gov. Ralph Northam announced guidelines for phase two of the
state’s reopening plan, which began June 5 in most places (Northern Virginia
and Richmond remain in phase one). Under phase two, restaurants and fitness
centers can resume indoor services at a reduced capacity. Some entertainment
venues can reopen, such as zoos and museums. Social gatherings of up to 50
people are permitted both outside and indoors. Previously, Northam ordered
everyone age 10 and older to wear a face covering in indoor public spaces.
Under phase one, social gatherings of more than 10 people are prohibited.
Retail stores can operate at a reduced capacity. Restaurants can resume
outdoor dining but must limit the number of customers. Gyms and fitness
centers can offer outdoor classes. Hair salons can reopen by appointment only.
Entertainment venues, such as bowling alleys, theaters and racetracks, must
remain closed.

Washington: Gov. Jay Inslee established a phased reopening of the state. In

all phases, employees are required to wear a face covering except in limited
circumstances, such as when working in an office alone. Individuals 65 or older
and other high-risk populations who live in a phase one county remain under
a stay-at-home order. Under phase one, permissible outdoor activities include
golfing, hunting, fishing and day use of state parks, as long as social distancing
practices are followed. Retail businesses can offer curbside pickup. Social,
spiritual or recreational gatherings of any size are prohibited except for drive-in
worship services where one vehicle is allowed per household. Restaurants are
limited to delivery or takeout.
For counties in phase two, restaurants are permitted to resume outdoor
dining services, but must operate at 50 percent capacity. Hair and nail salons,
housecleaning services and in-store retail shopping can begin operating with
restrictions. Camping in groups of five or fewer is also allowed.

West Virginia: Gov. Jim Justice has issued guidance for businesses as they
reopen statewide. Restaurants and bars can open for indoor service with
restrictions. Social gatherings of up to 100 people are permitted. Hair salons,

46
gyms, museums and other businesses should follow safety and sanitation
protocols. Private campgrounds and state park campgrounds are due to
reopen June 10.

Wisconsin: The Wisconsin Supreme Court struck down the state

Department of Health Services’ safer-at-home order, issued under the
direction of Gov. Tony Evers. The order was set to expire May 26. People are
no longer confined to their homes, and nonessential businesses, including
restaurants, can reopen. Evers issued a statement in response to the ruling,
asking Wisconsinites to continue to do their part to stop the spread of the
coronavirus. Private businesses can enforce their own restrictions, such as
requiring patrons to follow social distancing practices.

Wyoming: Gov. Mark Gordon announced that as of June 1, outdoor

gatherings of up to 250 people will be allowed if safety and sanitation
measures are followed. Most indoor gatherings are limited to 25 or fewer
people. Previously, under Gordon’s direction, the state public health officer
allowed restaurants to resume indoor service if precautions are taken, such
as adequately spacing tables and requiring staff to wear face masks. Hair
salons and gyms have also reopened, with tight restrictions.

47
 Additional Resources for developing a
COVID-19 Prevention Plan (CPP)
General
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Coronavirus
(COVID-19) – www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-nCoV

Developing a COVID-19 Prevention Plan

CDC: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/guidance-
business-response.html

Businesses
CDC: Resources for businesses and employers – www.cdc.gov/
coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/organizations/businesses-employers.
html
CDC: General business frequently asked questions – www.cdc.gov/
coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/generalbusiness-faq.html
Federal OSHA – www.osha.gov

Handwashing
CDC: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/hand-hygiene.html

Respiratory etiquette:
CDC: www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/
prevention.html
CDC: www.cdc.gov/healthywater/hygiene/etiquette/coughing_sneezing.
html

Social distancing
CDC: www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/guidance-business-
response.html

Housekeeping
CDC: www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/disinfecting-
building-facility.html
CDC: www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/
disinfecting-your-home.html
CDC: www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/organizations/
cleaning-disinfection.html
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA): www.epa.gov/pesticide-
registration/list-n-disinfectants-use-againstsars-cov-2

48
Employees Showing Symptoms of COVID-19
CDC: www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/if-you-are-sick/steps-when-sick.
html

Training
CDC: www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/guidance-small-
business.html
Federal OSHA: www.osha.gov/Publications/OSHA3990.pdf

49