All Washingtonians are anxious to “Re-start” our lives. Businesses small and large will be on the forefront of re-opening Washington subject to certain requirements imposed by the SafeStart order.   

SafeStart Washington Phase 1 begins on May 5, 2020 and allows the following businesses to operate: essential businesses already open, existing construction that meets agreedupon criteria, landscaping, auto/RV/boat/ORV sales, retail (curb-side pick-up orders only), car washes, and pet walkers.  

Phase 2 is anticipated to start sometime between May 25 and June 1, subject to change. Phase 2 re-opening is projected to include the following:  

  • Additional construction, likely including new construction 
  • Remaining manufacturing 
  • Retail, with some restrictions 
  • Professional Service/Office based businesses 
  • Real Estate 
  • Restaurants/Taverns, with <50% capacity, tables seating no more than 5, and no bar areas 
  • Hair and nail salons and barbers 

A checklist is a good starting point for businesses as they begin to prepare to resume operations. We recommend that businesses adopt and implement a “Safe Work Restart Plan” to document that their re-opening, and re-start is consistent with the Governor’s Orders and other applicable requirements of state and local agencies.  

To assist our clients, we have prepared a checklist that incorporates the recommendations from the State Department of Health and others.  

All businesses should regularly monitor the State of Washington guidance for rules that may be specific to your business, such as construction, medical fields, and others. 

We are regularly updating our website with additional information to assist you during this COVID-19 pandemic. A .pdf of our checklist can be found here.  

Please contact the team at Chmelik Sitkin & Davis P.S. at 360.671.1796 if you have any questions or need assistance developing a Safe Work Restart Plan.