Businesses Are Starting to Open – Here’s How to Do It Safely

The Governor’s office has released guidelines for how businesses in certain counties can begin to reopen. Among the resources available to the public through the Governor’s website are updated statewide guidance, industry-specific reopening checklists, and a complete overview of California’s reopening plans.

While tax preparation has all along been treated as an essential service, many of our Members have shut down their physical offices and have worked remotely. For counties that have moved further into Stage 2 of modifying the stay-at-home order, office-based businesses are now allowed to reopen, but telework still remains strongly encouraged.

For more information on where each county is in the process of reopening, visit the Governor’s county variance information page. If you are planning to reopen your office space, the Governor requires that each business:

  • Perform a detailed risk assessment and implement a site-specific protection plan;
  • Implement individual control measures and screenings;
  • Implement disinfecting protocols; and
  • Implement physical distancing guidelines.

Additionally, key prevention practices from the COVID-19 guidance for offices spaces include:

  • Physical distancing to the maximum extent possible;
  • Use of face coverings by employees (where respiratory protection is not required) and customers/clients;
  • Frequent handwashing and regular cleaning and disinfection; and
  • Training employees on these and other elements of COVID-19 prevention.

If you have any questions, please email Advocacy and Governance Manager Brian Pedersen, and he will connect you with the appropriate resources.