There are a lot of questions and concerns from our businesses regarding stage one reopening. We have put together a lists of frequently asked questions.
Do I need to purchase expensive cleaning supplies/disinfectants for my store?
Unexpired household bleach will be effective against coronaviruses when properly diluted. Prepare a bleach solution by mixing 5 tablespoons (1/3 cup) bleach per gallon of water. CDC Guidance: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/cleaning-disinfection.html?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Fprepare%2Fcleaning-disinfection.html
Do my employees need to wear N-95 or surgical masks when working in my store?
A cloth face covering is an acceptable, affordable and reusable option. A washing machine should suffice in properly washing a face covering. Individuals should be careful not to touch their eyes, nose, and mouth when removing their face covering and wash hands immediately after removing. On average, a cloth face covering may be washed between 15 and 20 times before needing to be replaced. CDC Guidance: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/diy-cloth-face-coverings.html
Are face coverings still required inside stores by the employees and customers?
Yes; ages 9 and older for most retail establishments—and ages 2 and older for personal services like hair salons and barber shops.
What do I do if a customer refuses to wear a mask in my store and they cite a health reason for doing so? May I refuse entry?
Based on state guidance, you should make every reasonable effort to accommodate a customer’s potential, legitimate medical condition or disability. Encourage them to practice social distancing while on your premises.
Are face coverings required in the park and on trails?
They are recommended but not required outside.
Are face coverings required when purchasing food from food trucks?
As long as social distancing is possible face coverings are recommended but not required. Food may not be consumed on site.
Are nail salons, tanning salons and tattoo shops allowed to open?
No not at this time.
Are restaurants and bars allowed to open outdoor sitting?
Not at this time. Carry out, pickup and delivery is allowed.
Is daycare open?
Daycare is still only available for essential workers as was established in March.
When will day care facilities open?
Daycares are listed in the businesses that can resume in Phase 2. Roadmap to Recovery https://governor.maryland.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/MD_Strong.pdf page 28
Can churches open up for services?
Yes they can open to 50% capacity for indoor services. Outdoor services are encouraged.
When we will begin Phase 2?
Unfortunately we don’t know the answer to that; however, the Governor’s Roadmap to Recovery suggests a period of at least 2-3 weeks between phases
What will open in Phase 2?
In the Governor’s Roadmap to Recovery he states some general things that may open in the three phases. It does not state specifics. That guidance will come out when we are ready to move into that phase. You can find the Roadmap to Recovery here: https://governor.maryland.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/MD_Strong.pdf page 28
Are gyms allowed to have fitness classes outside?
Yes, outdoor fitness is allowed but the group must remain at 10 and under. Multiple classes can be run at one time—but should be appropriately spaced from the other groups.
When will we be allowed to have a wedding?
Large gatherings are still prohibited by the current executive orders. Large gatherings may not resume until Phase 3 but we are not positive at this point. Roadmap to Recovery https://governor.maryland.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/MD_Strong.pdf page 29
How long should my employees telework?
In the state’s Roadmap to Recovery, it states that Marylanders should be prepared to continue teleworking, wearing masks or face coverings and practicing physical distancing for the foreseeable future.
You can read this in the Roadmap to Recovery https://governor.maryland.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/MD_Strong.pdf page 21