On October 7, 2011, Washington, D.C. Mayor, Muriel Bower extended the city’s coronavirus state of emergency to last until the end of the year. At the same time, she urged businesses to develop safety plans to get employees back into the office. The only way to return to normal life safely is for businesses and residents to follow the safety guidelines.
What Is Washington, D.C.’s Reopening Plan?
Washington, D.C. has been in phase 2 of reopening since June 2020. The city has new criteria for moving into phase 3, and, according to the mayor, they are meeting some of the goals to move to phase 3, but until all of the goals have been reached, the reopening plans have stalled.
Is It Mandatory To Wear a Mask In Washington, D.C. During COVID-19 Pandemic?
Yes, it is mandatory to wear masks in Washington, D.C. They must be worn in all businesses, office buildings and any other establishments open to the public. Business owners are required to post signs on exterior doors stating that masks must be worn to enter.
Masks are also required in common areas of apartment buildings, condominiums and cooperatives.
Are Restaurants Open In Washington, D.C.?
Yes, restaurants are open; however, owners are required to follow guidelines.
Restaurants are open for takeout, delivery and curbside pickup.
Indoor and outdoor dining is allowed up to 50 percent capacity.
If there is a bartender working, patrons cannot sit at the bar. If there isn’t one present, patrons may sit at the bar, but must follow social distancing guidelines.
Tables must be placed six feet apart.
There is a limit of six people per table, preferably from the same household.
Reservations are encouraged to reduce the amount of foot traffic in the establishment.
Restaurants are required to keep all dining records for at least 30 days.
Are Gyms Open In Washington, D.C.?
Yes, gyms are open, but owners must follow the strict guidelines set by the city.
All machines should have at least 10 feet between them in all directions. If social distancing isn’t possible, transparent barriers or physical shields need to be added.
Common areas should have enough space so patrons and staff can remain six feet apart.
Class sizes should be limited so that there will be at least 10 feet of space between each person.
Any equipment that requires two people should not be used unless the two people using it are from the same household.
Machines should be cleaned by a staff member after each use.
The entire gym should be cleaned and sanitized regularly.
What Businesses and Services Are Open In Washington, D.C.?
With Washington, D.C. currently in phase 2, most businesses and services have been allowed to open. However, all businesses are required to follow the guidelines set by the city. These include:
Business owners must require customers to wear masks.
Social distancing is a must.
Business owners must not allow more customers in the building than are allowed under the current guidelines.
What Does Washington, D.C. Define As “Essential Business” During COVID?
During phase 1 of the pandemic, only essential businesses were allowed to remain open. These include:
Grocery stores
Farmer’s markets
Liquor stores
Hospitals and medical facilities
Pharmacies
Utility companies
Banks
Laundromats
Auto repair shops
Gas stations
Child care facilities with restrictions
Restaurants for takeout, delivery and drive-thru service.
Are Large Gatherings Allowed In Washington, D.C.?
According to the mayor, large gatherings are not a good idea. If a large gathering is planned, residents are expected to follow the set guidelines:
Mass gatherings are limited to 50 people.
Attendees must stay six feet apart.
Attendees must wear a face mask at all times.
How To Keep Business Going During COVID?
If businesses are going to keep their doors open, they need to follow the guidelines set by the city. These include:
Keep the maximum capacity down to what the city has ordered.
Require all patrons to wear face masks.
Require all patron to social distance.
Post signs to remind patrons to social distance.
Place stickers on the floor to help patrons social distance properly.
Have the business cleaned and sanitized regularly.
How Can Commercial Cleaning Services Help?
Enviro-Master Services can help businesses in the Washington, D.C. area reopen safely. We know and understand the current guidelines that businesses must follow to safely conduct business during the current pandemic. Our COVID cleaning service is a great option for businesses looking for a thorough germ killing clean. We use our Virus Vaporizer, an electrostatic sprayer that utilizes an EPA-approved cleaning product that is proven to kill 99.99% of virus causing germs and bacteria.
