It’s true to say that we are now seeing signs that countries are going to start to reopen in the wake of the worst of the pandemic. This has already begun in certain places with states in the US rapidly reducing restrictions. However, it is important for business owners to ask whether their company is ready to reopen. You should be taking the downtime you have to plan how this is going to occur and what will be different when you do.
Know Your Local Rules And Regulations
In the US, it’s important to remember that the reduction of measures will not be controlled by Washington. Instead, each state has the power to decide what measures should and should not be in place. They will also decide how quickly they should leave which measures should be in place. For instance, Alabama is currently moving into its second stage. All retail stores can reopen with certain measures in place but businesses, where close proximity is essential such as tattoo parlors, will remain closed for now. If you break the local rules, then you could face severe penalties.
Keeping A Check On Regulation Changes
You do need to make sure that you are aware of changes to the law and regulations regarding both employees and the business environment as a whole. It’s likely that these are going to come through thick and fast over the next few months. That’s why it might be worth getting in touch with a legal advisor. They can advise you on your position here and ensure that you are not falling behind or forgetting about crucial developments. For instance, workplace rights have already begun to change in some areas with new developments in sick leave and what this could entail. You must make sure that your business is adhering to any and all new policies.
Protecting Workers
Regardless of who you speak to, one message remains consistent. Social distancing measures will need to remain in place until at least the end of 2020 and potentially into 2021. This will largely depend on whether there is a second wave of virus and many individuals do expect this to be the case. As such, it will be crucial that businesses are taking measures to protect their customers and their employees. Currently, McDonald’s, KFC, and Burger King are preparing to reopen in some form. However, before they do this, they are working to ensure social distancing requirements are met. This is what all businesses should be thinking about right now.
There is already guidance available as to how this could be completed including the use of PPE and screens. Furthermore, it is likely that there will need to be severe restrictions on the level of customers that can access business at any one time.
We hope this helps you understand some of the key measures that your business will need to consider before you are ready to reopen. It is vital that no company contributes to the worsening of the economy.