The Multiple Phases of "Restarting Ohio"

Yesterday Governor DeWine unveiled his Responsible Restart Ohio which calls for the gradual reopening of various types of businesses starting May 1st.

Businesses That Can Reopen

Beginning May 1

• • Medical procedures that don't require an overnight hospital stay
  • Dentists and veterinarians

Beginning May 4

• Manufacturing, distribution and construction will be allowed to resume.
• General office buildings

Beginning May 12

• Consumer retail and services

New Operating Requirements

Yesterday, Governor DeWine also announced a series of mandatory and suggested practices. In addition to the new requirements, the prior Stay at Home Orders will remain in effect.

Protocols That Apply to ALL Businesses

• No mask, no work, no service, no exception. Require face coverings for employees and clients/customers at all times.
• Conduct daily health assessments by employers and employees (self-evaluation) to determine if “fit for duty.”
• Maintain good hygiene at all times – hand washing, sanitizing and social distancing.
• Clean and sanitize workplaces throughout workday and at the close of business or between shifts.
• Limit capacity to meet social distancing guidelines.
  • Establish maximum capacity at 50% of fire code.
  • And, use appointment setting where possible to limit congestion.

Actions that Must be taken when a COVID-19 Infection is Detected2

• Immediately report employee or customer infections to the local health district.
• Work with local health department to identify potentially exposed individuals to help facilitate appropriate communication/contact tracing.
• Shutdown shop/floor for deep sanitation is possible.
• Professionally clean and sanitize site/location.
• Reopen in consultation with the local health department.

Industry Specific Operating Requirements

• Manufacturing, Distribution and Construction Operating Requirements
• Consumer, Retail, and & Services Operating Requirements
• General Office Operating Requirements

Businesses That Remain Closed

Governor DeWine announced that the following businesses are to remain closed per existing Stay at Home Orders unless a variance is granted or until related orders are amended or rescinded:

• K-12 schools
• Restaurants and bars (Carry-out and delivery services are permitted)

• Personal appearance/beauty services.
• Older adult day care services and senior centers.
• Adult day support or vocational habilitation services in congregate settings.
• Rooming and boarding houses, and workers’ camps.
• Entertainment/recreation/gymnasium sites.
• Campgrounds, including recreational camps and recreational vehicle (RV) parks

While businesses are anxious to reopen and return to full operations, the new operating requirements are creating a complex set of procedures and compliance. The Graydon COVID-19 Task Force will continue to monitor COVID-19 orders and guidance so stay safe and know that Graydon is here to help you navigate the Coronavirus crisis. We can help with general advice, policies, forms or whatever your business needs. Our goal is to help you sleep a little better at night.