Immediate Opening For Some, Prolonged Opening For Others
Governor Baker released details on his 4-phased reopening plan this week. The plan allows for certain businesses to open immediately and others to do so in a gradual process.
Reopening Plan: https://www.mass.gov/doc/reopening-massachusetts/download.
Industries like construction and manufacturing are permitted to reopen immediately but must adhere to new safety guidelines and protocols. On May 25, businesses like salons, barbershops, pet groomers, and car washes can begin to operate under new restrictions. Office spaces are allowed to operate at 25% of their workforce in all areas of the state with the exception of the City of Boston.
Retail businesses (outside of those considered essential) are being allowed curbside pick-up starting on May 25 and still not permitted to allow customers in shops. NFIB continues to advocate for in-store, by appointment, and reduced capacity shopping for retailers.
Both retail and restaurants are expected to be granted fewer restrictions in Phase 2. NFIB is advocating for restaurants to be able to open outdoor dining alongside take-out and delivery options.
Businesses must prepare a COVID-19 Control Plan. This does not need to be submitted to the state but should be kept on-premises in the event of an outbreak. See template: https://www.mass.gov/doc/covid-19-reopening-control-plan-template/download.
To ensure customer comfort, all businesses must display a COVID-19 compliance attestation poster in their business. This is a checklist signed by the employer: https://www.mass.gov/doc/compliance-attestation/download.
Employer and worker posters must also be displayed within the business: https://www.mass.gov/doc/employer-reopening-poster/download.
Employee reopening poster: https://www.mass.gov/doc/employee-reopening-poster/download.
Additionally, the federal workplace posters that NFIB provides to members have been updated with information regarding the coronavirus. Contact Membercare for more information at [email protected] or 1-800-634-2669.
As anticipated, businesses are expected to sanitize and require masks/face coverings for workers. The state prepared a list of vendors and acceptable materials and supplies here: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/reopening-purchasing-hygienic-or-protective-supplies-for-the-workplace.
For other best practices, guidance, and information visit: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/reopening-massachusetts.
For more information feel free to contact: [email protected].
