NYS has created a Safety Plan template for small businesses to fill out. It’s a requirement although owners do not have to submit the form anywhere just keep it in the business for any audits of inspections. Please do this before fully opening to the public. Here’s the link to the template HERE
Questions to ask yourself & Tips:
1. What’s the policy if an employee gets sick?
2. What’s the policies for the common areas in your space? Entranceways, stairs, lifts, bathrooms etc.
3. Post up info in your window on how you are going to keep your customers safe (this will help them choose to come into your store too). Cleaning protocols, employment protocols etc.
4. Make one of your employees the Wellness Ambassador. Come up with creative ideas to keep everyone safe and well and be trained on dealing with difficult situations.
5. Have spare masks in store for customers, have a hand sanitizer station at the entrance and gloves if customers want those.
6. You aren’t responsible for customers masking up and socially distancing in front of your store but you can ask them to abide by these guidelines. Put some posters up to remind them.
7. If you sell alcohol to go, then remind customers to not drink in front of your store, to take their drinks home with a poster.
As always head to the Merchant Assistance Page for more information and support.
