By Beth David, Editor
Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker announced on Monday, 5/18, that certain businesses will be allowed to reopen, but with guidelines in place to maintain social distancing and other measures to curb the spread of COVID-19.
Most businesses, including restaurants, have been closed since March 24. Under Phase 1 of the reopening plan, restaurants are still not able to open, except for take-out, and neither are gyms, nail salons, or day spas.
Construction, manufacturing, lab and office spaces, hair salons, pet groomers, car washes, and retail establishments are allowed to open with a variety of restrictions.
In all cases, wearing masks, and practicing social distancing are required. Gatherings of more than 10 people are still not allowed.
For industry specific guidelines, including workplace protocols, sample posters, and a checklist visit https://www.mass.gov/info-details/reopening-massachusetts
Starting on 5/25, hair salons, barbershops and pet groomers may open. Patrons will need to make appointments and wait outside until they are allowed to go in and be serviced immediately.
The idea is to make sure people are not congregating in a waiting area. Patrons will be required to wear masks, and hair stylists will also be required to wear masks and gloves.
Pet groomers are required to keep customers outside, with pet drop-off outside.
All businesses are required to conduct regular cleaning and disinfecting and to keep cleaning logs.
Places of worship are also allowed to open, but are limited to 40% of the building’s maximum level. Members who are not part of the same household must be seated at least six feet apart.
On May 25, beaches, parks, and most other outdoor activities will be allowed to resume with restrictions. Beaches will be restricted to the number or people who can maintain at least 12 feet of distance between toweling/blanket areas. Visitors will be required to wear masks when they cannot stay six feet away from other beachgoers. Masks are not required while swimming. Anyone with a medical condition preventing them from wearing a mask is not required to wear one.
For beach-specific guidelines, visit https://www.mass.gov/doc/beaches-guidance-for-managers-5-18-20/download
Charter boats will be able to resume work on 5//25 with limitations, such as no more than 10 people, including crew, aboard any single vessel. Passengers and crew must wear face coverings.
Campgrounds, zoos, and drive-in theaters are also allowed to open with occupancy limitations and other restrictions.
For a list of businesses allowed to open on 5/18 & 5/25 and general guidelines and other information, visit https://www.mass.gov/doc/reopening-massachusetts-may-18-2020/download
For the new “Safer-at-Home-Advisory,” visit https://www.mass.gov/news/safer-at-home-advisory
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