A Community Strategy for Phased Reopening:
Phase Two Amendment
Knox County & City of Knoxville
May 22, 2020

 Table of Contents
Let’s Keep Our Progress Going ............................................................................................................2
Show Compassion to Others ..................................................................................................................... 2
The Gathering Size Increase Doesn’t Change Physical Distancing Guidance: Stick with Members of
Your Household......................................................................................................................................... 2
Remember that COVID-19 Spreads Through Both the Air & Surfaces ..................................................... 4
Reminders: Support for Employers & Other Organizations...................................................................... 5
General Guidelines for Everyone Throughout all Phases ......................................................................6
Individuals (Including Employees, Customers & the General Public) ....................................................... 6
Higher-risk Individuals............................................................................................................................... 6
Employers & Other Organizations ............................................................................................................ 7
Phase Two .........................................................................................................................................9
Individuals (Including Employees, Customers & the General Public) ....................................................... 9
Higher-risk Individuals............................................................................................................................... 9
General Guidance for Employers and Other Organizations ..................................................................... 9
Guidance for Specific Types of Employers and Other Organizations ..................................................... 10
General Businesses ................................................................................................................................. 10
Schools and Childcare Facilities .............................................................................................................. 22
Outdoor Spaces & Recreation................................................................................................................. 23
Community Gathering Spaces................................................................................................................. 25
Transportation ........................................................................................................................................ 26
Gatherings ............................................................................................................................................... 27

1

 Let’s Keep Our Progress Going
In these uncertain times, one certainty is that increasing interactions and gatherings will increase the
risk of our community having more cases and clusters. This means personal responsibility will be even
more important in Phase Two. Following the Five Core Actions, presented in A Community Strategy for
Phased Reopening, remains central to reducing personal and community risk. The Five Core Actions,
introduced in greater depth in the reopening plan, include physical distancing, wearing cloth face
coverings, handwashing, cleaning surfaces and staying home if you are sick or instructed to
isolate/quarantine.
The minimum length of phases has been modified based on a better understanding of the local burden
of disease and improved capacity to respond. Phases will no longer be a minimum of 28 days. Instead,
the health department will assess the data after at least 14 days and provide an update, which may
include adjustments to the guidelines or phases. In this case, the next update will be on June 12.

Show Compassion to Others
Community surveys voiced frustration and fear about interactions where the personal choices of some
individuals have infringed on the safety of others, especially workers and business owners. We ask each
member of the community to show compassion to others, especially workers and business owners,
even when in disagreement about guidelines or safety precautions. Workers are encouraged to visit
the CDC’s Worker Safety and Support webpage for additional resources regarding safety.

The Gathering Size Increase Doesn’t Change Physical Distancing
Guidance: Stick with Members of Your Household
In Phase Two, maximum gathering sizes increase from 10 people to 50 people, but the guidance to
physically distance from people who do not live with you remains the same. This means multiple
families or individuals can get together for a gathering of up to 50 people, but each household should
stay a minimum of 6 feet from the others. When physical distancing cannot be consistently maintained,
the wearing of cloth face coverings helps to protect everyone from unknowingly spreading the virus to
each other. According to the CDC, the virus spreads easily between people when they talk, cough,
sneeze, etc.
The spirit of a gathering is an event, meeting, or other activity where closely or loosely associated
participants physically congregate. A gathering is not the number of people in a building at one time.
Gatherings are high-risk activities because of the prolonged time spent in the vicinity of the other
participants and the increased likelihood of intermittent breaking of physical distancing. Across the
nation, many clusters of cases have been traced back to weddings, funerals, house parties, concerts,
athletic activities and workplace meetings. Fulfilling both the letter and spirit of the guidance for
gatherings will be important for preventing clusters in our community.

2

   
  
  
 
  
 
  
   
 
 
 
  
 
 
  
 
  

Maximum 50
People Gathering

Example: Small Wedding Reception
Executed Improperly

- More than 50 people present

- Close proximity to people not within
their own household

- 6 feet physical distancing is not being
observed

Example: Small Wedding Reception
Executed Properly

- 50 people or fewer present

- Households staying together and
maintaining 6 feet distancing
from others

- Guests are wearing masks when 6 feet
distancing from non-household members
is not consistent

- Physical distancing guidelines to
manage guests present

Remember that COVID-19 Spreads Through Both the Air & Surfaces
Remember, the virus spreads easily from person-to-person through droplets when someone breathes,
talks, sings, coughs, sneezes, etc. People who do not feel sick or have symptoms can spread COVID-19
to others. Focusing your personal or organizational efforts on cleaning surfaces and hand washing can
help prevent some COVID-19 infections, but without an embrace of all of the Five Core Actions, people
are more vulnerable to the primary way COVID-19 is spread: through droplets in the air. Physical
distancing and wearing cloth face coverings are two of the Five Core Actions that reduce the risk of
the virus being spread through the air by people who do not know they are infected.

Physical Distancing: Six Feet is a Minimum – “Farther is Safer”
When physical distancing, remember that 6 feet of distance is a minimum. It is better to maximize the
distance between you and others not from your household. The longer you will be in close proximity
with another person not from your household, especially indoors, the more you should consider
distancing further than 6 feet from them. While new information is emerging every day, it is clear that
longer interactions increase your likelihood of catching the virus if someone near you is infectious.

Indoor and Outdoor Spaces
It is believed that indoor spaces are higher risk than outdoor spaces due to airflow. Increasing
ventilation may help to decrease indoor risk, but it is thought that incomplete ventilation (re-circulating
air without filtration or releasing exhaust into other areas of the building) may possibly be linked to
spreading the virus. With so much still unknown, the Phase Two recommendation is to open
doors/windows when practical and allowed by the organization’s regulatory body, to utilize outdoor
spaces as practical and to follow CDC guidance as it continues to emerge. Being outdoors is not a
replacement for following the Five Core Actions.

Cloth Face Coverings
Questions have emerged about the safety of wearing a cloth face covering. It is important to follow CDC
guidance on how to make, wear and care for a cloth face covering. A cloth face covering should fit
comfortably against the sides of the face and also allow for breathing without restriction. As it
becomes warmer outside, individuals are encouraged to practice consistent physical distancing
outdoors if they find wearing a cloth face covering to be uncomfortable. Wearing face coverings made
from cloth designed to stay cool during exercise or in the heat is another alternative.
When others wear cloth face coverings they are protecting you. And when you wear a cloth face
covering, you are protecting them. Cloth face coverings also help to remind you not to touch your face
with unwashed hands. When not wearing a cloth face covering (at home or when eating, for example),
it is important to cough or sneeze into your elbow or a tissue and not your hand.

Wearing Gloves
The wearing of gloves is not a recommended way for preventing the spread of COVID-19 in community
settings (non-health care settings). Proper hand washing or use of hand sanitizer (with a minimum of
60% alcohol) are the recommended methods for preventing the spread of COVID-19. You cannot get
COVID-19 through the skin on your hands. The virus infects people by entering their mouth, nose or
eyes. Improper glove wearing can increase your likelihood of infecting yourself or transferring the virus
to shared surfaces that will infect others. Glove use should be limited to instances required by this
document, FDA’s Food Code, industry guidance and CDC guidance. The use of gloves does not replace
handwashing.
4

 Reminders: Support for Employers & Other Organizations
Employers and other organizations in our community care about the safety of their employees,
volunteers, customers and congregations. In order to protect safety while in a phased reopening, this
document contains general guidance and strategies to support the business and nonprofit community.
Due to the volume of requests, the Knox County Health Department will not be available to gauge the
setup of your business operations or approve your plans. Instead, use the resources outlined on the
Employer and Organization webpage: covid.knoxcountytn.gov/reopening-businesses.html.

Resources
Use the website to identify a COVID-19 coordinator, sign up for an email distribution listserv where
your organization can provide ideas for Phase Three, print safety signs and find resources to get your
questions answered. A multi-agency group is available to provide guidance to and answer questions
from the business community about how to implement the guidelines. Visit the website or call 3-1-1 for
more information.

Recognition Program
Employers who select COVID-19 coordinators, display the safety signs mentioned above and enroll in
the email distribution listserv will be given the opportunity to display a certificate showing their
commitment to the health of their employees and customers. We know businesses in our area are
eager to show their commitment to safety. By mobilizing a COVID-19 coordinator, displaying and
operationalizing vital information, and staying up to date on the best ways to reduce transmission, our
area businesses and organizations will be proving their commitment through action.

5

 General Guidelines for Everyone Throughout all Phases
This section provides general guidelines for all phases. A good practice is for individuals to assume they
are infectious and that others are infectious as well, regardless of whether they exhibit symptoms.

Individuals (Including Employees, Customers & the General Public)
Use Physical Distancing Whenever Possible
•

In public, stay at least 6 feet away from others not from your household whenever possible.
Remember “farther is safer.”

Continue to Practice Good Hygiene
•

•
•
•
•

It is strongly recommended (and at times required per the phase guidelines) that you wear a
cloth face covering (mask) when unable to consistently maintain 6 feet of physical distancing
while in public.
Wash your hands with soap and water or use hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol),
especially after touching frequently used items or surfaces.
Avoid touching your face.
Sneeze or cough into a tissue or the inside of your elbow. Dispose of tissues after a single use.
Regularly disinfect frequently used items and surfaces using soap and water or EPA-registered
household disinfectants (including bleach and cleaners containing at least 70% alcohol).

People Who Feel Sick or Have Been Told to Isolate/Quarantine Should Stay Home
•
•

Stay home if you feel sick or have been told to isolate/quarantine due to potential exposure,
illness or while awaiting test results. Do not go to work, school, stores, etc.
If you are concerned about your health, contact and follow the advice of your medical provider.

Show Courtesy to Others, Especially Workers
•
•
•
•

When patronizing a business, stay at least 6 feet away from employees whenever possible.
Follow directions on safety signage displayed in businesses.
Be a part of keeping things clean: Use hand sanitizer stations, cloth face coverings, grocery cart
sanitizer wipes, and other means to protect yourself and others.
Remember to tip workers when appropriate. When tipping is not customary, remember a
“thank you” is always appreciated.

Higher-risk Individuals
While this document provides guidance to allow our community to continue reopening, individuals
must consider their personal risk and determine whether to increase their interactions in the
community as phases progress. Throughout all phases, higher-risk individuals are strongly encouraged to
follow the guidance specifically for them. In Phase One and Phase Two, this means to stay at home as
much as possible. In Phase Three, this means resuming public interactions with physical distancing.
Higher-risk individuals include those over the age of 65, and those with serious underlying health
conditions, such as high blood pressure, chronic lung disease, diabetes, obesity, asthma and those
whose immune system is compromised.

6

 Employers & Other Organizations
Implement strategies addressing the safety of two broad categories of people:
•
•

Customers, clients, members of the public, etc.
Employees, coworkers, contract employees, etc.

Develop and implement appropriate policies, in accordance with federal, state,
and local regulations and guidance, and informed by industry best practices,
regarding:
•

•

•

7

Physical distancing and protective equipment. These practices may include:
o Requiring employees to wear cloth face coverings (or PPE in medical settings or where
industry guidance instructs its use) when unable to consistently maintain 6 feet of
physical distancing.
o For as long as possible, allowing telecommuting, especially for higher-risk individuals.
Allowing flexible hours and staggered shifts to increase physical distancing for
employees as they enter and leave the workplace.
o Creating signs and barriers that reinforce 6 feet of physical distancing for the protection
of your employees and the public.
o Marking the floors where necessary to provide customers clear direction when waiting
in line. Implementing one-way aisles.
o Considering making stickers for employees to wear that remind customers to maintain
6 feet of distance.
o Creating plexiglass protective barriers for employees working registers or providing
close proximity services.
o If the business has overhead announcements, regularly playing announcements
encouraging the maintenance of 6 feet of distancing.
o Encouraging customers to come during non-peak hours. Implementing special hours for
seniors and other higher-risk individuals. Offering or continuing to offer delivery or
curbside pickup options.
General Sanitation. These practices may include:
o Encouraging employees to engage in hand washing (or the use of hand sanitizer if hands
are not visibly soiled) after each customer interaction.
o Having hand sanitizer available at the entrance of the business for customers.
o Discouraging workers from using other employees’ equipment, including phones,
desks, offices or other work tools, when possible. When not possible, hand sanitizer
should be used both prior to use of communal items and immediately after.
o Routinely sanitizing shared surfaces and equipment throughout the day and between
users.
o Offering customers single-use grocery bags.
o Considering placing limitations on returns or extending the window in which returns
can be made to the place of business.
Use and disinfection of common and high-traffic areas. Follow guidance from the CDC for
Cleaning and Disinfecting Your Facility, Cleaning and Disinfection for Community Facilities, and
Cleaning and Disinfecting Non-emergency Transport Vehicles. These practices may include:

 Having a clear plan for enhanced cleaning protocols, including who is responsible for
each task. Modify business hours if necessary to allow for deep cleaning.
o Dedicating an employee to working at the entrance sanitizing carts and baskets and
encouraging the use of hand sanitizer.
o Cleaning the credit card touch screen and/or keypad after each customer use. Regularly
cleaning checkout lanes or counters.
o Cleaning pens, menus and other communal items after each use.
Business travel. These practices include:
o Following guidance outlined in each phase. Look up the state and local laws for the area
where your employee will travel and if CDC has guidelines for quarantining after travel.
o Remaining aware of the COVID-19 activity in the area where your employee will travel.
o

•

Monitor workforce for COVID-19 symptoms and take action.
•

•

•

•

•
•

Screen all employees daily by asking the following questions: Have you been told to
quarantine/isolate by a medical provider or the health department?; Have you had face-to-face
contact for 10 or more minutes with someone who has COVID-19?; Are you feeling ill and/or
experiencing any of the symptoms of COVID-19 (regularly check the CDC website for an
updated list)? If yes, they should not enter the worksite and should contact their doctor.
While it is preferred that employers conduct daily employee temperature checks with a
no-touch thermometer before they enter the workplace, employee daily temperature selfchecks are appropriate when a thermal thermometer is not available or daily employer checks
are not practical. Communicate the policy with employees. Daily temperature checks are a tool
in your toolbox; they do not replace the need to follow the other recommendations.
Require any employee to quarantine/isolate according to the guidance of their medical
provider or the Knox County Health Department when the employee is:
o A positive case for COVID-19; OR
o Waiting for their results of a COVID-19 test; OR
o A close contact of someone with COVID-19.
Do not allow symptomatic people to physically return to the workplace until they are
symptom-free and fever free for 72 hours without the use of fever-reducing medication or have
been released from quarantine/isolation. Employees should not be required to have a negative
test to return to work.
Consider implementing generous sick leave policies to encourage employees to report their
illnesses and stay home.
Maintain employee privacy by not unnecessarily sharing information with others about their
illness. Health information is protected by federal law.

Develop and implement ways to track close contact interactions.
•

Employers should prepare and implement strategies for determining and tracking close contact
interactions between staff and between staff and customers (for example, keeping detailed
appointment records and worker shift pairings so you can easily help public health determine
close contacts, if needed). This will allow potential cases to be isolated quickly should an
employee or customer test positive for COVID-19, preventing future transmissions which
protects health and the employer’s ability to continue to serve the community.

8

 Phase Two
Individuals (Including Employees, Customers & the General Public)
All individuals should engage in the following phase-specific practices when in public and regularly
sanitize frequently touched surfaces in their homes:
• Continue following the Five Core Actions (more information on pages 5 and 6 of A Community
Strategy for Phased Reopening):
o Physical distancing of at least 6 feet when in public, except with members of your
household – “Farther is Safer.”
o Wearing cloth face coverings when physical distancing cannot be consistently
maintained.
o Handwashing with soap and water or hand sanitizer if hands are not visibly soiled.
o Cleaning surfaces with soap and water or disinfectant.
o Staying home if you are sick or instructed to isolate/quarantine.
• Continue following the General Guidelines for Everyone Throughout all Phases (pages 6-8).
• Social settings and gatherings are limited to 50 people maximum. Avoid social settings of more
than 50 people that do not readily allow for maximizing physical distancing.
• Non-essential travel can be cautiously resumed. Follow CDC guidelines regarding travel.

Higher-risk Individuals
•
•
•

Stay at home as much as possible.
Continue following the General Guidelines for Everyone Throughout all Phases (pages 6-8).
Members of households with higher-risk residents should be aware that by returning to work or
other environments where distancing is not practical, they could carry the virus back home.

General Guidance for Employers and Other Organizations
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•

9

Continue following the General Guidelines for Everyone Throughout all Phases (pages 6-8).
Follow the Guidance for Specific Types of Employers and Other Organizations (beginning on
page 10).
Continue to encourage telework, whenever possible and feasible with business operations.
Implement strict physical distancing protocols when possible.
When reopening or expanding services, employers individually must consider risk to patrons
and employees.
If possible, slowly transition to increasing services in order to give your organization time to
build and test safety protocols.
Limit use of common areas where employees are likely to congregate and interact.
Non-essential travel can be cautiously resumed. Follow CDC guidelines regarding travel.
Strongly consider special accommodations for higher-risk individuals.

 Guidance for Specific Types of Employers and Other Organizations
The following tables provide industry- and setting-specific guidance for Phase Two reopening. It is not possible for this document to contain an
exhaustive list of all the employers, organizations and settings in our community. Many businesses have service models that fall under the
guidance of several categories. For instance, an apartment management company may be an office setting, have a fitness center and a pool.
Any establishment serving food or beverage for onsite consumption must follow the food service category guidelines. For questions, please see
the support opportunities outlined on page 5. The purpose of this section is to outline specific sectors that may reopen with modification or
are not allowed to reopen at this time. Based on community input, several categories have been added or combined for simplicity of
guidance.
This plan provides guidance on how to slowly expand services beyond what was allowed during Phase One. Therefore, if certain services or
alternative business models were permitted under Phase One, they are still permitted under this plan. The tables below are modified for our
community based on the categories outlined in the Public Health Principles for a Phased Reopening During COVID-19: Guidance for Governors.

General Businesses
If certain services or alternative business models were permitted under Phase One, they are still permitted under this plan.

Phase Two Category
Office settings

Phase Two Guidance

Additional
Resources

• Continue to follow the “General Guidelines for Everyone Throughout all Phases” (pages • CDC
6-8) and the Phase Two “General Guidance for Employers and Other Organizations”
Subcategories include:
(page 9) except as modified below.
• General office workers • When at least 6 feet of physical distancing cannot be consistently maintained,
for many types of
employees and patrons must wear face coverings.
organizations
• Sanitize surfaces and items between users.
• Finance and insurance
• Open doors/windows when practical and allowed by regulatory body, utilize outdoor
• IT, logistics and media
spaces as practical and follow CDC guidance regarding airflow/ventilation as it continues
to emerge.
• Photographers
• Real-estate, leasing and • As practical, designate an entrance and a separate clearly designated exit to support
physical distancing. This may also mean creating entrance and exit “lanes” if a doorway
housing rentals
has two doors and no separate entrance/exit can be practically utilized.
• Some non-profits
• Treat every patron and employee as if they are potentially infectious.
• Continue to encourage telework as much as possible.
• Limit meeting room capacity to facilitate at least 6 feet of physical distancing between
attendees and encourage as many attendees as possible to join via teleconference.

10

 Food service (all business
models that include food
or beverage for onsite
consumption)
Subcategories include:
• Restaurants and similar
food establishments
• Bars and breweries for
seated consumption
• Bakeries
• Coffee shops
• Events
• Food trucks and food
truck parks
• All other establishments
with food or beverage
for onsite consumption
NOT Open in Phase Two:
• The bar/counter section
of seating within an
establishment
• Self-service food,
beverage, etc.
• Non-seated on premise
consumption of food or
beverage

11

• Gatherings are high-risk activities. According to the CDC the virus spreads easily between • National
people, especially when they gather.
Restaurant
Association
• Continue to follow the “General Guidelines for Everyone Throughout all Phases” (pages
6-8) and the Phase Two “General Guidance for Employers and Other Organizations”
• FDA
(page 9) except as modified below.
• When at least 6 feet of physical distancing cannot be consistently maintained,
employees and patrons must wear face coverings (employees and patrons must wear
cloth face coverings when physical distancing is broken for the delivery of food and
beverage).
• Sanitize surfaces and items between users.
• Open doors/windows when practical and allowed by regulatory body, utilize outdoor
spaces as practical and follow CDC guidance regarding airflow/ventilation as it continues
to emerge.
• As practical, designate an entrance and a separate clearly designated exit to support
physical distancing. This may also mean creating entrance and exit “lanes” if a doorway
has two doors and no separate entrance/exit can be practically utilized.
• Treat every patron and employee as if they are potentially infectious.
• Curbside pickup and delivery options should still be offered, when possible.
• Establishments can open only with tables spaced to allow for at least 6 feet of physical
distancing between groups of patrons. Physical distancing between groups of patrons
applies to both indoor and outdoor seating.
• A maximum of 10 people per table, with the understanding that face coverings cannot be
worn while eating and physical distancing is intermittently broken during the delivery of
food and beverage items by servers (employees and patrons must wear cloth face
coverings when physical distancing is broken for the delivery of food and beverage).
• Physical distancing of at least 6 feet must be maintained in both the kitchen and dining
room. Use floor markers to reinforce physical distancing while waiting to place an
order/pay, pick up an order or when approaching the host/hostess station. If groups are
not seated immediately, consider implementing a test/call or intercom system to alert
patrons of available seating. Groups of diners cannot wait inside or congregate while
waiting.
• The bar/counter section within an establishment is not open for seating or standing due
to the tendency to congregate and because of the danger of respiratory droplets landing
on the service area. Alcohol can be served from the bar and taken to patrons in seated
areas of the establishment.

 Food service, continued

• Self-service is not permitted (for example, salad bars, buffets, beverage service except
touch-free fountain drinks, and shared condiments) due to the use of communal serving
instruments and surfaces. Plated buffet orders and cafeteria style (with a no-gap barrier
between diner and buffet) models are encouraged as alternatives to self-service. (It is not
anticipated that self-service will be permitted even in Phase Three due to the high risk
presented by communal instruments and surfaces in an eating environment.)
• Condiments must be single-serve, provided by request only (not tabletop) and cannot be
reused.
• Menu boards, single use menus or sanitizing of menus between each use is required.
• Hand sanitizer should be available at the entrance of the establishment and/or where
customers pick up their order, if applicable.
• Employees should wear gloves only as required by this document, FDA’s Food Code and
according to CDC guidance. The use of gloves does not replace handwashing.
• Use rolled silverware/napkins stored in sealed bins (cloth face covering and gloves should
be worn by staff while rolling silverware in a designated sanitary area).
• Establishments with leisure activities (pool, darts, bowling, etc.) must follow the guidance
for these activities (see guidance for leisure spaces starting on page 16-18). Additionally,
patrons must wash their hands or use hand sanitizer before and after engaging in these
activities. Food and beverage cannot be consumed while participating in the leisure
activities.
• Follow the music and entertainment guidelines (see page 20) regarding live
performances in these settings. No dancing by patrons.

12

 Personal care/services
industries

• Continue to follow the “General Guidelines for Everyone Throughout all Phases” (pages • TN Cosmetology &
6-8) and the Phase Two “General Guidance for Employers and Other Organizations”
Barber Guidelines
(page 9) except as modified below.
• Professional
Subcategories include:
• When at least 6 feet of physical distancing cannot be consistently maintained,
Beauty
• Body piercing facilities
employees and patrons must wear face coverings.
Association
• Massage facilities
• Sanitize surfaces and items between users.
• Salons
• Open doors/windows when practical and allowed by regulatory body, utilize outdoor
spaces as practical and follow CDC guidance regarding airflow/ventilation as it continues
• Spas
to emerge.
• Tanning salons
• As practical, designate an entrance and a separate clearly designated exit to support
• Tattoo parlors
physical distancing. This may also mean creating entrance and exit “lanes” if a doorway
• Educational situations
has two doors and no separate entrance/exit can be practically utilized.
where these services
are proctored or taught • Treat every patron and employee as if they are potentially infectious.
• Open by appointment only. Seating for patrons must be at least 6 feet apart in service
NOT permitted in Phase
areas. Patrons cannot wait inside.
Two:
• Patrons and employees/service providers must be screened for exposure and illness
• Food and beverage
prior to the service (Use the screening questions from the employee entrance safety sign
cannot be consumed by
available on the website).
the client in these
• Client and employee/service provider must wear a cloth face covering if service provided
settings when the
requires the worker to be within 6 feet of the client.
employee is within 6
• Employees can provide services to more than one client at a time (one active and one in
feet of the client,
process) with handwashing in between clients and the two clients are physically distanced
regardless of barriers.
at least 6 feet apart.
• Services that would
• Services that would require the removal of the client’s face covering cannot be
require the removal of
performed. Having the employee/service provider wear both a face shield and cloth face
the client’s face
covering is NOT a substitute for the client wearing a cloth face covering during services
covering cannot be
within 6 feet of the client. The employee’s cloth face covering is not intended to protect
performed. Client and
the employee in these very close proximity situations (the client’s cloth face covering
employee/service
reduces risk for the employee) and face shields are intended to protect the eyes/face only
provider must wear a
from direct large droplet exposure.
cloth face covering if
• When practical, add plexiglass protective barriers to stations to reduce contact between
service provided
patron and service providers. Required for nail and pedicure stations to separate the
requires worker to be
patron and service provider.
within 6 feet of the
client.
13

 Personal care/services
industries, continued.

• Noting the potential discomfort clients may have wearing a mask in prone (face-down)
position during a massage, consider using side-lying positioning to address the lateral and
posterior aspects of the body.

Retailers

• Continue to follow the “General Guidelines for Everyone Throughout all Phases” (pages • OSHA
6-8) and the Phase Two “General Guidance for Employers and Other Organizations”
• NY state guidance
(page 9) except as modified below.
• NC state guidance
• When at least 6 feet of physical distancing cannot be consistently maintained,
employees and patrons must wear face coverings.
• Sanitize surfaces and items between users.
• Open doors/windows when practical and allowed by regulatory body, utilize outdoor
spaces as practical and follow CDC guidance regarding airflow/ventilation as it continues
to emerge.
• As practical, designate an entrance and a separate clearly designated exit to support
physical distancing. This may also mean creating entrance and exit “lanes” if a doorway
has two doors and no separate entrance/exit can be practically utilized.
• Treat every patron and employee as if they are potentially infectious.
• Provide curbside, pickup and delivery service options, as practical, and encourage their
use.
• Limit the number of customers inside a store at any given time to allow for the free
movement of and maximizing of physical distancing between patrons from different
households.
• Distancing floor markers must be used to encourage physical distancing of at least 6 feet
throughout the store. Consider one-way aisle markers, as well.
• Add plexiglass protective barriers for employees working registers.
• Sampling of food or products is prohibited.
• Rental equipment, including vehicles, must be disinfected by the retailer or be left unused
for at least 72 hours before being rented to another user. Follow CDC guidance for
cleaning and disinfecting different types of surfaces.
• Services that would require the removal of the client’s face covering cannot be
performed.

Subcategories include:
• General retail stores
• Auto sales
• Clothing stores
• Consignment/thrift
• Equipment rental
companies
• Furniture sales
• Grocery stores
• Office supply stores
• Printing/mailing
services
NOT Open in Phase Two:
• Sampling of food or
products is prohibited.
• Services that would
require the removal of
the client’s face
covering cannot be
performed.

14

 Gyms, fitness studios and
similar facilities
Subcategories include:
• Gyms and fitness
studios and similar
facilities
• Physically distanced
personal training,
karate, dance,
cheerleading,
gymnastics and similar
NOT Open in Phase Two:
• Close interaction
personal training,
karate, dance,
cheerleading,
gymnastics and similar

15

• Continue to follow the “General Guidelines for Everyone Throughout all Phases” (pages • CDC small
6-8) and the Phase Two “General Guidance for Employers and Other Organizations”
business guidance
(page 9) except as modified below.
• When at least 12 feet of physical distancing cannot be consistently maintained,
employees and patrons must wear face coverings.
• Sanitize surfaces and items between users.
• Open doors/windows when practical and allowed by regulatory body, utilize outdoor
spaces as practical and follow CDC guidance regarding airflow/ventilation as it continues
to emerge.
• As practical, designate an entrance and a separate clearly designated exit to support
physical distancing. This may also mean creating entrance and exit “lanes” if a doorway
has two doors and no separate entrance/exit can be practically utilized.
• Treat every patron and employee as if they are potentially infectious.
• Limit occupancy and workout times as needed to allow for the free movement of and
maximizing of physical distancing between patrons. This must comfortably allow for the
maintenance of a minimum of 6 feet of physical distancing at all times between patrons
from different households who are wearing cloth face coverings. This is because heavier
breathing while exercising is an activity that expels the virus further and in greater
quantities than talking. If patrons choose not to wear cloth face coverings, facilities must
maximize space between these patrons to a minimum of 12 feet in all directions (as a
precaution, 12 feet serves as a doubling of the minimum for non-exercise distancing).
Facilities may also choose to require patrons to wear cloth face coverings with a
minimum of 6 feet of physical distancing between patrons. Facilities must individually
consider the risk to patrons and employees when deciding whether to maximize space
between patrons to 12 feet or require patrons to wear cloth face coverings. The facility
can also designate separate areas to accommodate patrons who want to wear masks (6
feet of distancing minimum) and those who do not (12 feet of distancing minimum).
• Signage must be visible at the entrance, front desk and throughout the facility instructing
patrons of the distancing/mask requirements and stating that sanitizing stations must be
used before and after the use of each piece of equipment.
• Patrons and employees must be screened for exposure and illness prior to the service
(Use the screening questions from the employee entrance safety sign available on the
website).
• Members must wash or sanitize their hands upon entering and leaving the facility.

 Gyms, fitness studios and
similar facilities

Theaters, museums,
galleries, dinner theaters
and other misc. passive
leisure spaces/activities

• Require patrons to clean equipment they come in contact with using disinfecting wipes
before and after each use. This prohibits circuits performed by multiple users unless
disinfecting occurs during the transition between users.
• Operate with staffed hours only. Guest use is not allowed.
• Equipment must be moved, restricted or marked off so clients can only use machines
that are a minimum 6 feet apart, based on the physical distancing/face covering strategy
for that area.
• When possible, it is highly encouraged to offer classes via tele-instruction. Classes where
a minimum of 6 feet of physical distancing can be consistently maintained can be offered.
Floor space for each participant should be marked off to be at least 6 feet apart while
wearing a cloth face covering or 12 feet apart if participants are not wearing a cloth face
covering. Equipment and floor space must be sanitized between classes. Parents must
maintain physical distancing when waiting during instruction for minors.
• Continue to follow the “General Guidelines for Everyone Throughout all Phases” (pages • Americans for the
6-8) and the Phase Two “General Guidance for Employers and Other Organizations”
Arts
(page 9) except as modified below.
• American Alliance
• When at least 6 feet of physical distancing cannot be consistently maintained,
of Museums
employees and patrons must wear face coverings.
• Sanitize surfaces and items between users.
• Open doors/windows when practical and allowed by regulatory body, utilize outdoor
spaces as practical and follow CDC guidance regarding airflow/ventilation as it continues
to emerge.
• As practical, designate an entrance and a separate clearly designated exit to support
physical distancing. This may also mean creating entrance and exit “lanes” if a doorway
has two doors and no separate entrance/exit can be practically utilized.
• Treat every patron and employee as if they are potentially infectious.
• Theaters and dinner theaters may only operate with limited seating for groups of up to
10 people together. Seating between groups must be at least 6 feet in all directions.
• Floor markers must be placed to encourage physical distancing of 6 feet throughout the
facility. Activity areas for children and interactive displays remain closed. Engage in
enhanced sanitation practices.
• Classes and other types of gatherings must follow the guidance for gatherings.

16

 Non-passive leisure
spaces/activities

• Offer tele-participation options and other alternative participation models as much as
• CA entertainment
possible. Gatherings are high-risk activities. According to the CDC the virus spreads easily venue guidance
between people, especially when they gather.
Subcategories include:
• Continue to follow the “General Guidelines for Everyone Throughout all Phases” (pages
• Arcades/arcade
6-8) and the Phase Two “General Guidance for Employers and Other Organizations”
machines
(page 9) except as modified below.
• Bowling alleys
• When at least 6 feet of physical distancing cannot be consistently maintained,
• Climbing gyms and rock
employees and patrons must wear face coverings. If participation in the leisure activity
walls within facilities
is a form of exercise, patrons should wear masks throughout the duration of the activity
• Go kart facilities
due to the varied surfaces and likelihood of breaking of physical distancing in these
• Golf course driving
settings.
ranges and mini-golf
• Sanitize surfaces and items between users.
• Laser tag
• Open doors/windows when practical and allowed by regulatory body, utilize outdoor
• Night clubs/adult
spaces as practical and follow CDC guidance regarding airflow/ventilation as it continues
entertainment
to emerge.
• Pool tables
• As practical, designate an entrance and a separate clearly designated exit to support
• Shooting ranges
physical distancing. This may also mean creating entrance and exit “lanes” if a doorway
• Skating rinks
has two doors and no separate entrance/exit can be practically utilized.
• Trampoline parks and
• Treat every patron and employee as if they are potentially infectious.
trampolines within
• Patrons must be screened for exposure and illness prior to any non-passive indoor
facilities
activities (Use the screening questions from the employee entrance safety sign available
on the website).
NOT Open in Phase Two
• Equipment must be sanitized between users. High-traffic areas and high-touch surfaces
• Indoor children’s play
(such as counters, check-out areas, keypads, restrooms) should be sanitized every hour.
areas unable to be
• Equipment must be moved, restricted or marked off so patrons can only use
sanitized between
equipment/machines that are at least 6 feet apart.
users, including but not • Patrons must wash or sanitize their hands upon entering and leaving the facility. Hand
limited to ball and foam sanitizer stations should be readily available throughout the facility. Hand sanitizer must
pits
be used before and after utilizing shared equipment BUT is not a substitute for hourly
sanitizing of this equipment.
• Signs must be visible at the entrance, front desk and throughout the facility stating that
sanitizing stations must be used before and after the use of each piece of equipment.
• Communal items (bowling balls, pool balls and cues, putters, etc.) must be provided by
employees to patrons and cannot be available for patrons to self-serve. Employees must
sanitize each communal item between users. Patrons can bring their own equipment.
17

 Non-passive leisure
spaces/activities,
continued

• Food can be served at these establishments (follow guidelines for food service starting on
page 11) but not during use of leisure activities. Signage should encourage hand washing
prior to eating.
• Parents/guardians must follow physical distancing and cloth face covering guidelines
while supervising children participating in recreational activities and ensure that children
are able to comply with applicable guidelines (for example, physical distancing, wearing a
cloth face covering). Teach and reinforce the use of cloth face coverings. Cloth face
coverings should not be placed on babies or children younger than 2 years old.
• Arcades/arcade machines can only operate if there is a sanitizing wipe station set up next
to each piece of arcade equipment available for use.
• Climbers must use hand sanitizer immediately before and after utilizing a rock wall. If
chalk is used on hands, hand washing with soap and water should performed after
climbing. Climbers must wear cloth face coverings while on the wall due to the proximity
of a climber’s face and the wall. Climbing walls must be sanitized each hour they are in
use.
• Trampoline parks and trampolines within facilities can open with a minimum of 15
minutes wait time between users from different households or clean between users from
different households. Participants must use hand sanitizer immediately after utilizing the
trampoline. These facilities must be deep cleaned daily.
• Roller and ice skating rink skate sessions are limited to 2 hours with a maximum of 50
people per session AND skaters must be able to comfortably maximize physical distancing
between different households. Cloth face coverings must be worn by all patrons and
employees while skating.
• Night clubs/adult entertainment can operate if all patrons are seated according to the
food service guidelines (regardless of whether they order food or beverage) and can
provide food service if they follow the food service guidelines (starting on page 11).
Facilities may only operate with limited seating for groups of up to 10 people together.
Seating between groups must be at least 6 feet in all directions. Dancing by entertainers is
allowed on stage only and must follow the music and live entertainment guidelines (page
20). Close-contact dancing by entertainers is not allowed. No dancing by patrons.
Employees (including adult entertainers) and patrons must wear cloth face coverings
when physical distancing of at least 6 feet of physical distancing cannot be consistently
maintained.

18

 Workers who enter the
homes or facilities of
others, including:
• Cleaning services
• Contractors
• Electricians
• Plumbers
• Real-estate
• Sales

• Continue to follow the “General Guidelines for Everyone Throughout all Phases” (pages
6-8) and the Phase Two “General Guidance for Employers and Other Organizations”
(page 9) except as modified below.
• When at least 6 feet of physical distancing cannot be consistently maintained,
employees and patrons must wear face coverings (or PPE where industry guidance
instructs its use).
• Sanitize surfaces and items between users.
• Treat every client and worker as if they are potentially infectious.
• Workers must self-screen for exposure and illness daily and ask whether anyone in the
home or facility has been exposed or ill prior to entering (Use the screening questions
from the employee entrance safety sign available on the website).
• All services that can be conducted remotely should continue to be remote or physically
distanced from outside the entrance of the home or business (for example, door-to-door
sales).

Pet grooming, daycare
programs and veterinary
clinics

• Continue to follow the “General Guidelines for Everyone Throughout all Phases” (pages
6-8) and the Phase Two “General Guidance for Employers and Other Organizations”
(page 9) except as modified below.
• When at least 6 feet of physical distancing cannot be consistently maintained,
employees and patrons must wear face coverings.
• Sanitize surfaces and items between users.
• Open doors/windows when practical and allowed by regulatory body, utilize outdoor
spaces as practical and follow CDC guidance regarding airflow/ventilation as it continues
to emerge.
• As practical, designate an entrance and a separate clearly designated exit to support
physical distancing. This may also mean creating entrance and exit “lanes” if a doorway
has two doors and no separate entrance/exit can be practically utilized.
• Treat every patron and employee as if they are potentially infectious.
• The risk of COVID-19 spreading from people to animals is thought to be low.
• The owner and employee must wear cloth face coverings if at least 6 feet of physical
distancing cannot be maintained between owner and employee during the service (for
example, the owner assisting in calming the animal).
• These establishments should not use the owner’s leash.
• Veterinary clinics should consult industry and CDC guidance.

19

 Music and live
entertainment

Lodging and
accommodations

• Rehearsals, instruction and performance of vocals and breath-propelled instruments are
encouraged to be offered by tele-participation/service.
• Singing, projection of voice for spoken performance and breath-propelled instruments are
higher-risk activities that expel the virus further and in greater quantities than talking (as a
precaution, physical distancing of these types of performers must be doubled to at least
12 feet in all directions from the audience, other performers and instructors). Adopt
seating and spacing modifications to facilitate the increased physical distancing.
• In-person rehearsals, instruction and performance of non-vocal and non-breath-propelled
instruments and other types of performances may occur if physical distancing of at least 6
feet is maintained or cloth face coverings are worn when unable to consistently maintain
physical distancing. Performers should avoid touching each other.
• Instruments, microphones and any other shared objects must be properly sanitized
between users.
• Performances must follow the guidelines for theaters (when applicable) and gatherings.
• Continue to follow the “General Guidelines for Everyone Throughout all Phases” (pages
6-8) and the Phase Two “General Guidance for Employers and Other Organizations”
(page 9) except as modified below.
• When at least 6 feet of physical distancing cannot be consistently maintained,
employees and patrons must wear face coverings.
• Sanitize surfaces and items between users.
• Open doors/windows when practical and allowed by regulatory body, utilize outdoor
spaces as practical and follow CDC guidance regarding airflow/ventilation as it continues
to emerge.
• As practical, designate an entrance and a separate clearly designated exit to support
physical distancing. This may also mean creating entrance and exit “lanes” if a doorway
has two doors and no separate entrance/exit can be practically utilized.
• Treat every patron and employee as if they are potentially infectious.
• Follow additional State Lodging & Accommodations Guidelines

20

 Manufacturing and
warehouses

Construction

21

• Continue to follow the “General Guidelines for Everyone Throughout all Phases” (pages
6-8) and the Phase Two “General Guidance for Employers and Other Organizations”
(page 9) except as modified below.
• When at least 6 feet of physical distancing cannot be consistently maintained,
employees and patrons must wear face coverings (or PPE where industry guidance
instructs its use).
• Sanitize surfaces and items between users.
• Open doors/windows when practical and allowed by regulatory body, utilize outdoor
spaces as practical and follow CDC guidance regarding airflow/ventilation as it continues
to emerge.
• As practical, designate an entrance and a separate clearly designated exit to support
physical distancing. This may also mean creating entrance and exit “lanes” if a doorway
has two doors and no separate entrance/exit can be practically utilized.
• Treat every client and employee as if they are potentially infectious.
• Follow CDC Guidance for Manufacturing Workers and Employers.
• Continue to follow the “General Guidelines for Everyone Throughout all Phases” (pages
6-8) and the Phase Two “General Guidance for Employers and Other Organizations”
(page 9) except as modified below.
• When at least 6 feet of physical distancing cannot be consistently maintained,
employees and patrons must wear face coverings (or PPE where industry guidance
instructs its use).
• Sanitize surfaces and items between users.
• Open doors/windows when practical and allowed by regulatory body, utilize outdoor
spaces as practical and follow CDC guidance regarding airflow/ventilation as it continues
to emerge.
• As practical, designate an entrance and a separate clearly designated exit to support
physical distancing. This may also mean creating entrance and exit “lanes” if a doorway
has two doors and no separate entrance/exit can be practically utilized.
• Treat every client and employee as if they are potentially infectious.
• Follow additional State Construction Worksite Guidelines.

 Schools and Childcare Facilities
Phase Two Category
Childcare facilities and
summer camps

Schools and school sports

Phase Two Guidance

Additional Resources

• Overnight programs/camps are not open.
• Teach and reinforce the use of cloth face coverings.
• Cloth face coverings should not be placed on babies or children younger than 2
years old
• Childcare programs must follow the CDC’s Child Care Programs Reopening
Decision Tool when making decisions regarding reopening.
• Reopening of camps can occur for the purpose of providing childcare. Youth
programs and camps must follow the CDC’s Youth Programs and Camps
Reopening Decision Tool when making decisions regarding reopening.
• Youth and summer camps should follow CDC guidance for youth and summer
camps.
• Sports camps and camps with sports activities should also follow CDC guidance
on youth sports. Additionally, during Phase Two, only skill-building drills or
team-based practice are allowed. These activities are defined as lower risk
activities by the CDC.
• In addition to the lower risk activities as described above, individual (noncontact) sporting competitions such as running or cycling can occur as long as
they follow physical distancing, cloth face covering and limit of 50 people
maximum as outlined in this section.
• Schools should consider CDC guidance, state recommendations and local district
guidance.
• Schools are encouraged to follow the CDC’s Schools Reopening Decision Tool
when making decisions regarding reopening.
• Schools should follow all of the CDC guidance on youth sports. Additionally,
during Phase Two, only skill-building drills or conditioning at home, alone or
with family members, and team-based practice are allowed. These activities are
defined as lower risk activities by the CDC.
• In addition to the lower risk activities as described above, individual (noncontact) sporting competitions such as running or cycling can occur as long as
they follow physical distancing, cloth face covering and limit of 50 people
maximum as outlined in this section.

• CDC Child Care, Schools,
and Youth Sports
• WHO
• American Camp Association
Association of Camp
Nursing

•
•
•
•

CDC schools
WHO
NCAA
CDC parks

22

 Institutions of higher
education (including their
residence halls)

• Follow state and federal guidance.

• CDC
• American College Health
Association

Outdoor Spaces & Recreation
Phase Two Category

Phase Two Guidance

Parks, playgrounds, walking • Public playgrounds remain closed in Phase Two.
paths/trails, dog parks
• When at least 6 feet of physical distancing cannot be consistently maintained,
wear face coverings.
NOT open in Phase Two:
• Open with physical distancing of 6 feet from anyone not in someone’s
• Public playgrounds
household. No congregating.
• Communal spaces such as bathrooms will be evaluated by operators on a parkby-park basis to determine appropriateness of opening.
Athletic fields, skateparks • When at least 6 feet of physical distancing cannot be consistently maintained,
and other outdoor
wear face coverings.
congregate/recreation
• Pavilions and shelters are open with physical distancing of 6 feet from anyone
settings
not in someone’s household.
• Athletic fields, courts and other athletic venues are available for single
Sports-related gatherings
household use and for skill-building drills, conditioning and team-based practice.
These activities are defined as lower risk activities by the CDC. As of the
publication of this document, we recommend athletic programs and activities
for all ages follow the CDC guidance on youth sports.
• In addition to the lower risk activities as described above, individual (noncontact) sporting competitions such as running or cycling can occur as long as
they follow physical distancing, cloth face covering and limit of 50 people
maximum as outlined in this section.
• Tennis and similar courts for singles and doubles use only, skateparks, golf
courses, and other low-interaction/low-touch outdoor recreation spaces are
open. Physical distancing of 6 feet must be maintained.
• Communal items must be sanitized between users.
• Maximum of 50 people for a gathering at one time (including athletes, coaches,
and spectators), observing physical distancing and mask wearing guidelines.
23

Additional Resources
• Guidance from MD
• Guidance from RI
• Guidance from Los Angeles,
CA

• Guidance from the National
Mall Trust in Washington,
DC
• Guidance from MD
• Guidance from CA
• CDC parks
• WHO guidance for mass
gatherings-Sports
Addendum
• WHO Interim guidance for
all mass gatherings
• WHO generic mass
gathering decision tree
• CDC guidance

 Zoo

• Continue to follow the “General Guidelines for Everyone Throughout all
Phases” (pages 6-8) and the Phase Two “General Guidance for Employers and
Other Organizations” (page 9) except as modified below.
• When at least 6 feet of physical distancing cannot be consistently maintained,
employees and patrons must wear face coverings.
• Sanitize surfaces and items between users.
• Treat every patron and worker as if they are potentially infectious.
• Limit the number of patrons at any given time to allow for the free movement
of and maximizing of physical distancing between patrons from different
households.
• Markers must be placed to encourage physical distancing of 6 feet.
• Engage in enhanced sanitation practices.
• Indoor and interactive exhibits can reopen and must follow the leisure space
guidance (pages 16-18).
• Classes and camps can be offered consistent with guidance for gatherings and
childcare/camps, as applicable.
• Children’s play areas and interactive displays remain closed.
Pools, splashpads, beaches • The risks related to pools, splashpads, beaches and other water venues are
• CDC Water
and other water venues
due to the tendency to congregate with others at these venues. When at least • CDC Aquatic Venues
6 feet of physical distancing cannot be consistently maintained outside of the • AHA Interim FAQ for
Communities: COVID-19
water, employees (if staffed) and patrons must wear face coverings.
and CPR Training
Swimming or playing in a splashpad with a cloth face covering is prohibited as
it is a potential hazard. Employees and patrons should make all efforts to
maintain physical distancing between members of different households while
swimming, playing, etc., except in emergency situations.
• Parents/guardians must follow physical distancing and cloth face covering
guidelines while supervising children participating in recreational activities and
ensure that children are able to comply with applicable guidelines (for example,
physical distancing, wearing a cloth face covering). Teach and reinforce the use
of cloth face coverings. Cloth face coverings should not be placed on babies or
children younger than 2 years old.
• Patrons should bring their own towels.
• When pools, splashpads, beaches and other water venues are required by their
regulatory body to have a lifeguard, they must be staffed by an individual other
24

 Pools, splashpads, beaches
than the lifeguard who shall be responsible for maintaining safety protocols
and other water venues,
and cleaning.
continued
• Facility owners are responsible for displaying signage about physical distancing
and cleaning shared surfaces.
• Limit occupancy as needed to allow for the free movement of and maximizing
of physical distancing between patrons. This must comfortably allow for the
maintenance of a minimum of 6 feet of physical distancing at all times between
patrons from different households.
• Modify layouts of deck chairs and tables to be spaced to allow for at least 6 feet
of physical distancing between groups of patrons from different households.
• Individual swim lessons and practice are permitted when following the other
guidelines. Also follow the athletic guidelines (page 23).
• Encourage lap swimming and consider other ways to reinforce physical
distancing in the water and around the pool area.
• Facility owners are responsible for having cleaning products available for
patrons to self-clean shared surfaces (chairs, railings, etc.) before and after each
use. Use cleaning products appropriate for aquatic venues to clean frequently
touched surfaces, chairs and locker rooms.
• Public whirlpools, hot tubs and other pools of similar type and usage are not
open except for use by one household at a time.

Community Gathering Spaces
Phase Two Category
Places of worship

25

Phase Two Guidance

Additional Resources

• See the Governor’s Office of Faith-Based and Community Initiatives Guidance
for Gathering Together in Houses of Worship.

• CDC
• FAQ for Faith Leaders from
NYC
• Guidance from NY state
• Risk Assessment from
WHO
• Decision Tree from WHO
• WHO considerations for
religious mass gatherings

 Community centers and
libraries

• Offer tele-participation options and other alternative participation models as • CDC
much as possible. Gatherings are high-risk activities. According to the CDC the
virus spreads easily between people, especially when they gather.
• Continue to follow the “General Guidelines for Everyone Throughout all
Phases” (pages 6-8) and the Phase Two “General Guidance for Employers and
Senior centers are not open
in Phase Two.
Other Organizations” (page 9) except as modified below.
• When at least 6 feet of physical distancing cannot be consistently maintained,
employees and patrons must wear face coverings.
• Sanitize surfaces and items between users.
• Open doors/windows when practical and allowed by regulatory body, utilize
outdoor spaces as practical and follow CDC guidance regarding
airflow/ventilation as it continues to emerge.
• As practical, designate an entrance and a separate clearly designated exit to
support physical distancing. This may also mean creating entrance and exit
“lanes” if a doorway has two doors and no separate entrance/exit can be
practically utilized.
• Treat every patron and employee as if they are potentially infectious.
• Libraries should use alternative service models for the request of books and
other materials due to the tendency of patrons to touch and reshelf materials.
Books and other materials must be quarantined for 72 hours before being
made available for recirculation after being checked out to patrons.

Transportation
Phase Two Category

Phase Two Guidance

Additional Resources

Public transit

• Buses are encouraged to operate following CDC guidance.

CDC, NY state guidance for
public transportation

Airplanes

• Continue to operate within guidance from CDC.

CDC

Rideshare and taxis

• Drivers and passengers must wear cloth face coverings. Passengers should ride CDC guidance,
Washington State Guidance
in the back to create physical distance.
for Rideshare/Taxis, Toronto
• Have tissues and hand sanitizer available for passengers.
• Disinfect vehicle often, especially after dropping off a passenger who appears to Guidance
be sick or who has come from or is taken to a medical facility.
26

 Gatherings
Phase Two Category

Phase Two Guidance

Additional Resources

Indoor and outdoor
• Offer tele-participation options and other alternative participation models as • CDC Mass Gathering
gatherings and venues
guidance
much as possible. Gatherings are high-risk activities. According to the CDC the
(birthday parties,
•
CDC guidance
virus spreads easily between people, especially when they gather. Gatherings
classes/onsite instruction,
are high-risk activities because of the prolonged time spent in the vicinity of the • National Funeral Directors
meetings, events, concerts,
Association guidance
other participants and the increased likelihood of intermittent breaking of
etc.)
physical distancing. Across the nation, many clusters of cases have been traced
back to weddings, funerals, house parties, concerts, athletic activities and
workplace meetings. Fulfilling both the letter and spirit of the guidance for
gatherings will be important for preventing clusters in our community. Out of
respect for the safety of others, tele-participation options should be offered to
all participants invited to social and professional gatherings, especially
individuals who are higher-risk, who live with higher-risk individuals or who
provide support to higher-risk individuals.
• Continue to follow the “General Guidelines for Everyone Throughout all
Phases” (pages 6-8) and the Phase Two “General Guidance for Employers and
Other Organizations” (page 9) except as modified below.
• When at least 6 feet of physical distancing cannot be consistently maintained,
employees and patrons must wear face coverings.
• Gatherings have a maximum of 50 people for the entire duration of the event
(including open house type gatherings). Large event venues can split apart their
event spaces into more than one event space. Simultaneous events must be
unrelated and guests at each event cannot attend the other events.
• Agendas and event spaces should be arranged to discourage congregating
between individuals of different households. Professional event venues and
organizers must provide a copy of the guidelines to clients. Develop flexible
refund policies for organizers and attendees.
• Maintain physical distancing of at least 6 feet between attendees from
different households. Wear a cloth face covering when unable to consistently
maintain physical distancing.

27

 Indoor and outdoor
gatherings and venues,
continued

• Table and chairs must be set to accommodate physical distancing. It is highly
encouraged to maximize the space between households in attendance at a
gathering for a prolonged period of time.
• Follow the food service guidelines earlier in this document for any provision of
food or beverage. No self-service. Beverages must be served only to seated
guests.
• Dancing is not allowed.
• When possible, limit car services (for example, valets). If necessary to continue
offering car services, ensure employees and patrons are wearing cloth face
coverings and wipe down all surfaces touched before and after use (e.g., keys,
wheel, door handle).
• It is anticipated that Phase Three guidance will include separate indoor and
outdoor guidelines.

28