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Health commissioner: Businesses reopening in HamCo should follow these guidelines

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Posted at 11:23 AM, May 01, 2020
and last updated 2020-05-01 19:55:53-04

HAMILTON COUNTY, Ohio — Interim Health Commissioner Greg Kesterman spelled out five guidelines businesses must follow as the state starts to reopen on Friday.

Starting Friday, some medical procedures can resume, and dentist offices and veterinary services can reopen.

On Monday, manufacturing, distribution and construction businesses that had closed can reopen, and on May 12, retail and service businesses (photography, dog groomers, etc.) can reopen.

Kesterman said businesses that reopen must comply with the following:

  1. Face masks are required for employees and highly recommended for clients/customers
  2. Employers should conduct daily health assessments to ensure employees are fit to work
  3. Businesses must maintain good hygiene/hand washing
  4. Workplaces must be cleaned and sanitized throughout the day and at close or between shifts
  5. Businesses must limit capacity to meet social distancing guidelines

Click here for industry-specific guidelines from the state.

Kesterman said it is imperative that businesses follow the protocol so cases of COVID-19 do not spike.

Anyone who feels a business is not complying with guidelines can file a public nuisance complaint on Hamilton County Public Health’s website.

Kesterman said his team is more prepared to handle complaints because a database has been established to streamline complaints.

While Hamilton County Public Health covers four health jurisdictions, Kesterman said if the business complaint does not fall under that umbrella, employees will forward the complaint to the proper jurisdiction for evaluation.

Late Thursday night, Dr. Amy Acton extended the stay-at-home order for Ohioans until at least May 29, calling the order the "Stay Safe Ohio Order."

The order lists businesses which are to stay closed for the time being. That list includes restaurants, bars, gyms, schools and child care services.