As we continue to recover from the insidious COVID-19 pandemic, New York has instituted a phasing-in process for us all to return gradually and sensibly to our normal activities, as the medical and scientific information may dictate. As described by the Governor of the State of New York, the process embraces guidance for all industries and social activities, and applies in many specific ways to all businesses engaged in real estate and commercial building activities.
It is strongly recommended that each Board of Directors should consult carefully with its building manager and building attorney to review every detail of this guidance in order to ensure the health and safety of all residents, employees and visitors to each building. ALSO, IT IS IMPORTANT TO UNDERSTAND AS YOU READ THE (unabridged) GUIDELINES THAT THEY ARE WRITTEN FOR THE ENTIRE INDUSTRY AND PORTIONS MAY CERTAINLY NOT APPLY TO ALL BUILDINGS.
On June 8, 2020, New York City entered into Phase One of New York State’s four-phase reopening plan, known as “NY Forward”, which has published industry-specific guidance for businesses explaining the mandatory requirements related to COVID-19 that businesses must implement as well as its recommendations for safe operations.
On June 22, 2020 New York City entered Phase Two of NY Forward. The Phase Two guidelines provide requirements and recommendations in a variety of areas, which include: physical distancing, personal protective equipment, hygiene and cleaning, employee communication, screening and testing, tracing and tracking, and safety plans. Knowing the specifics of the guidance, and appreciating the vital importance of each of its many aspects is crucial to the preservation of health and safety, and should be taken very seriously by every Board of Directors.
We are grateful to attorney Robert Sparer, Esq. of the law firm Clifton Barr Demaria, LLP for providing GUIDANCE FOR RE-OPENING IN PHASE TWO which can be found in its entirety here.