LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — Changes are coming to businesses near you, as Nevada's economy moves towards reopening, and keeping workers and customers safe is at the top of the discussion.
Empty parking lots have been a usual sight, with many nonessential businesses remained closed. However, when they do reopen, there's guidance being shared for business owners to consider available from the Southern Nevada Health District.
"We've tried to provide guidance, checklists, for any of the businesses on how they can deal with COVID-19," said Chris Saxton, SNHD Environmental Health Director, while speaking at a Vegas Chamber webinar.
Continuing coverage of the coronavirus pandemic
SNHD stresses it's still waiting on direct order from Gov. Sisolak on when nonessential businesses can reopen, but it has made some suggestions. These include a questionnaire for employees to keep track of their health before opening and an illness log when business resumes.
The health district says health logs are meant for internal business use and aren't needed for review at this time.
"It's just mostly to assist the businesses to help them with their checklist, and, of course, we link it to the CDC for any guidance," Saxton said.
Social distancing measures are strongly encouraged in places like break rooms to prevent the spread of infection.
"When I take lunch, when I come into the office, we make sure that we stay six feet apart, and that's probably what America's going to look like for the foreseeable future," said Larry Rogers, SNHD Environmental Health Manager of Food Operations.
With specifics on Nevada's reopening still being work out, Las Vegas city leaders say any guidance will continue to evolve for business owners.
"We're learning and growing at the same time, and everybody wants to open up safely and responsibly," Las Vegas councilman Brian Knudsen said.
"I'm sure businesses are kind of eagerly waiting if they land in that phase one or whatever phase it is," Knudsen said.
Eric Prato, the owner of Garagiste Wine Room in the Arts District, says he listened to Tuesday's webinar and says he'll be taking social distancing measures.
"Whether it be occupancy removal or removal of seats, or anything like that, anything we can do to make people feel comfortable because that's part of it as well," Prato said.
List of resources for Nevadans during coronavirus pandemic
Prato says his business has been conducting curbside pickup with delivery and plans to continue following any direction health officials suggest.
"We just want everyone to do things the right way. We know we're going to do things the right way with whatever guidelines are recommended," he said.
Ultimately, everyone says it's about keeping workers and customers safe.
Currently, Gov. Sisolak's stay-at-home order runs until May 15
