Posted on May 4, 2020 at 9:36 pm by Clay Curtin
Effective Monday, May 4, gardeners and landscapers resumed work according to the updated shelter-in-place
San Mateo County health order. The order was extended to May 31, and has some protocols to ensure the safety of the workers as well as the public in adhering to
social distancing protocols. As a condition of operating outdoor businesses in the updated order, workers must adhere to social distancing protocols and requirements.
Social distancing requirements for gardeners and landscapers include:
- Maintaining at least six-foot social distancing from other workers and individuals who are not part of the same household or living unit;
- Frequently washing hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or using hand sanitizer;
- Covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue or fabric or, if not possible, into the sleeve or elbow (but not into hands);
- Wearing a face covering when required; and
- Avoiding all social interaction outside the household when sick with a fever, cough, or other COVID-19 symptoms.
The collective efforts taken to date regarding this public health emergency have slowed the virus’ spread, but the emergency and the attendant risk to public health remain significant. Evidence suggests that the restrictions on mobility and social distancing requirements imposed by the prior health orders are slowing the rate of increase in community transmission and confirmed cases by limiting interactions among people.
In light of progress on these indicators, and subject to continued monitoring and potential public health-based responses, it is appropriate at this time to allow outdoor businesses to operate in Menlo Park as long as adherence continues with the social distancing requirements.
