In the midst of the ever-changing guidelines, it can be hard to decipher which regulations apply to your business. Some businesses are reopening while others that may have been back open for some time now, are being asked to close their doors. We have the information to keep you informed and up-to-date on the protocols that apply to your unique situation whether you are reopening or closing your doors once again.
Reopening the Workplace Guidance
San Diego Human Resources Consulting’s HR Consultant, Laura Miller, explains how to safely reopen the workplace in compliance with California statewide guidelines. This informative video, “5 Minutes With an Expert: Reopening the Workplace” covers what you need to know, who the changes apply to, how SDHRC can help, and much more.
Reducing Hours or Closing the Workplace
San Diego’s Reopening Has Been Dimmed
On Thursday, July 2nd, Governor Newsom announced that 19 counties throughout California will be required to close indoor business operations to include restaurants, wineries, movie theaters, zoos, museums and card rooms with bars being required to close ALL operations if they do not serve food. In addition, it was announced that beginning July 7th, San Diego, along with 5 other counties has been added to “California’s Coronavirus Watch List ” and will join in the mandatory closures for the next 3 weeks.
With many businesses just recently being able to reopen, it can be disappointing and concerning that once again, businesses will be greatly impacted financially while also possibly having to lay-off or reduce employee hours. Although businesses will be restricted, the county will allow for continued outdoor dining, takeout, and delivery options with complete closure not being mandated. In addition, businesses will need to have all customers seated no later than 10:00 p.m. with all patrons required to leave the premises by 11:00 p.m.
The County also announced that increased enforcement will take effect throughout the state, and businesses will be expected to adhere to all state and county guidelines in order to remain compliant. What, as a business, can you do?
- Ensure required Safe Reopening Plan, Social Distancing Protocol and/ or Food Facility, Restaurant, Bar, Winery, Brewery Operating Protocol is posted and provided to all employees
- Ensure all employees are provided with the Employee Rights Notice
- Revise or introduce an Injury Illness and Prevention Plan (IIPP)
- Create an addendum to your IIPP to include COVID safety measures
- Ensure the most current Health Order is reviewed and followed (the order is updated daily/weekly as guidelines evolve)
- Train your employees on COVID symptoms and steps your business will take to ensure the safety of both employees and customers
- Create a safe reopening plan or use SDHRC’s customizable template
How Can SDHRC Help?
As California strives to slow the spread of the coronavirus and several counties are being monitored by the state, it is imperative that businesses are prepared and aware of the ever-changing regulations. We’re here for you anytime, whether it’s clarifying wage and hour laws, guidance on policy interpretation, addressing layoffs/furloughs or interpreting emergency sick leave and EFMLA under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act. SDHRC wants to bring you comfort and peace of mind through this challenging and evolving journey.
Author: Marsi Harris
