Dance Studio Managers

Last Updated: 8.19.2022 at 3:00 p.m.

A Note on Equity

As you think through safety for you, your space, co-workers, and audiences while you practice, teach, manage spaces and even perform again, consider that these practices and regulations do not affect everyone equally, and that efforts should also be made to create equity among peers as well as the people attending events and lessons. Building regulatory measures for safety from the spread of COVID-19 has required the implementation of tracing protocols, data gathering, health screenings and behavioral guidelines, and these measures are being deployed in contexts where there already exist other systems of surveillance and security that disproportionately affect people along lines of disability, race, immigration status, and gender. Furthermore, during a health care crisis just as the one we are living through, access to vaccination, stable housing, testing, employment, reliable information, and even personal protective equipment has been more challenging in working class communities of color.  What this could mean to your organization is that while COVID-19 safety is a priority, you and your coworkers should manage to navigate how each regulation affects people from various social backgrounds differently. 

Protocols around whether a person is vaccinated, on what type of documentation they carry, or how their employment networks are informed during tracing processes, while addressing efforts to control the spread of a virus, carry a variety of biases that fall on racial and class lines, potentially making your spaces more difficult and indeed less safe for disabled people, working class folk, people of color, and non-citizens. Sharing disability status, or it becoming known due to surveillance, can be quite punitive. For this reason, providing accessibility accommodations, even if not requested, supports disabled folks who do not feel safe openly identifying. What you can do to address this systemic bias is to adapt regulations to make space for the needs and requests of the people you work with and your audiences. For example, valid and important concerns about data gathering might arise from immigrant folk in your working community, and you’ll need to adapt those regulations in ways that honor those concerns. You might need to speak with directly affected folk about what other systems of care, tracing and travel safety you can set up that are informed by their needs and concerns. Before thinking about security or law enforcement support for de-escalation needs that might arise, you should look into other alternative ways of upholding your space regulations and meeting de-escalation needs. Directly affected communities can perhaps point to wants that you should consider when training staff and co-workers. 

A safer space is not made through a proclamation of safety or welcoming, but through listening and adaptation processes that involve the wellbeing of people that are affected by an issue. As you review these guidelines and different scenarios, consider their implementation as opportunities to create listening space for directly affected communities and to adapt to their needs and concerns. You’ll have a stronger sense of unity, and ultimately, safety, this way.

Table of Contents

For a condensed version of these Standard Recommendations, including all Mandates and a consolidated list of Best Practices, please visit our General Summary page. 

  1. Cultural Sector Response to lifting of Vaccine and Mask Mandates
  2. Previous Government Mandates
  3. Classifications
  4. Masking
  5. Vaccines
  6. Testing, Screening, Tracking
  7. Physical Distancing
  8. Visitor Management 
  9. Communication and Signage
  10. Hygiene, Cleaning & Disinfection
  11. Return-to-Office Guidance
  12. Commerce
  13. Touring Companies and Travel Information
  14. Make a Plan

1. Cultural Sector Response to Lifiting of Vaccine and Mask Mandates (March 2022)

NYC continues to navigate the ongoing pandemic with its variants, surges, and over time, its receding levels. The cultural economy, and in particular the live performing arts, are at the front lines of this struggle. Just as Key to NYC required an implementation period, moving away from Key to NYC is a process as well. This document is an attempt to provide guidance and additional references for various parts of the cultural sector. 

GENERAL SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS ACROSS GENRES

Government recommendations

With Governor Hochul’s lifting of mask mandates, and Mayor Adams’ suspension of the Key to NYC vaccine rules, the sector is moving forward with safe and considered protocols scaffolded as appropriate to the activity in each part of the sector. It should be noted that “New York State’s Department of Health continues to strongly recommend mask-wearing in all public indoor settings as an added layer of protection, even when not required. And children 2 – 5 years old who remain ineligible for vaccination must wear a proper-fitting mask.” The cultural community considers itself a partner to the city’s efforts to steer the city toward a safe, healthy and vibrant future.  

Unions 

Much of the sector employs union workers, and those unions safety requirements will continue to take precedence. In the absence of union protections, arts and culture workers need crucial baseline safety protocols–particularly if their work involves close and sustained physical proximity, as in dance and many performing arts. The safety of public-facing staff, many of whom returned to work with the assurance of safety measures, must also be considered. 

Equity Concerns

COVID safety is also an equity issue as it has had a disproportionate impact on communities of color, disabled people, immigrants, and other historically under-resourced communities, and the cultural sector’s response to continuing safety protocols must reflect the needs and interests of these key members of the sector. For more on equity and mandates, review equity guidance from Dance/NYC and Gibney’s Reopening Dance in NYC Digital Toolkit below. 

Flexibility

We will continue to communicate with our partners in government and ask both the administration and the cultural sector to remember the need for flexibility. The public health crisis continues to morph, and both the virus and our tools to combat it are continually shifting. Safety measures cannot be turned on and off overnight. Plans for safe reopening must be continually updated. So we ask that all parties stay in communication and work together to keep everyone safe so we can all enjoy culture together! 

GENRE SPECIFIC GUIDANCE

Theater

For theater, the Broadway League announced that it would adopt a “mask optional” policy for the month of July. Audience members are still encouraged to wear masks in theaters. Audience masking protocols for August and beyond will be evaluated on a monthly basis and will be announced in mid-July. Most theaters are no longer checking vaccination status.

In the off and off off Broadway world, the Alliance of Resident Theaters of NY (A.R.T./NY) has released a statement providing the guidance that all shows currently in production and rehearsal will maintain mask and vaccine requirements. Dance/NYC and Gibney offer their continually updated guidance in its toolkit for Reopening Dance in NYC. Performing arts unions are continuing with their current protocols, requiring these safety measures be provided to their working members. 

Dance

Dance/NYC and Gibney have collaborated on a Reopening Toolkit for the dance sector which continues to be updated as conditions change. 

ACCESSIBILITY: For a comprehensive guide to making events more accessible for those who are able to attend in-person, check out “Access Suggestions for Public Events,” created by disability justice based performance project Sins Invalid.

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2. Previous Government Mandates

KEY TO NYC:

Businesses including indoor dining, indoor fitness (includes dance and other fitness studios), and indoor entertainment (includes theaters and performance venues) are no longer required by the City to check for proof of vaccination for entry. The city has designated that cultural institutions can determine their own policies regarding masking and vaccination. 

Key to NYC Workplace Vaccination Requirement: All private-sector employers in NYC must see proof of vaccination from their employees.  . Those employers are required to sign and publicly post an affirmation that they’re complying with the mandate. Also included are rideshare drivers, people who rent space in a coworking office, and therapists who visit clients in their home. The City may fine employers $1,000+ for violations. Visit this City Vaccine Workplace Requirement webpage to learn more about complying with the mandate. Learn more about what employers need to know about the NYC Vaccine Mandate. 

For reference – Key to NYC requirements that were in effect August 2021 through March 2022:

ll people over the age of 5 are required to show proof of two doses of a COVID-19 vaccine approved by or authorized for emergency use by the FDA or WHO (except for those 18 years and older who received the single dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine) for indoor dining, indoor fitness (includes dance and other fitness studios), and indoor entertainment (includes theaters and performance venues). The mayor also announced 5-11-year-old children are required to get vaccinated to participate in high-risk extracurricular activities. These activities include sports, band, orchestra, and dance. These requirements also mean that employees working at these locations must be fully vaccinated. People 18 and older are also required to show identification along with their proof of vaccination.

Resources on vaccines and the Key to NYC program can be found on the Vaccines page of this website. Responsible Parties should be prepared to, at any time, adjust and adapt between various levels of danger zones in the event of positive cases within the organization, an increase in COVID cases in the area, and/or the emergence of new COVID variants of concern.

NY HERO Act:

The New York HERO Act, which designated COVID-19 as an airborne infectious disease that presents a serious risk of harm to public health, is no longer in effect. Private sector employers are still required to have an Infectious Disease Exposure Prevention Plan (the “Plan”), but are no longer required to implement the Plan at this time. Employers can adopt a model safety plan as crafted by the New York State Department of Labor, or develop their own safety plan in compliance with the previous HERO Act standards. 

MASK REQUIREMENTS AND UPDATES

CDC:

Check your COVID-19 Community Level on the CDC website to find whether your area is considered low-, medium-, or high-risk for COVID-19, and recommendations for masking. Health officials emphasized that people should still wear face coverings if they wish or if they are personally at high risk, and spaces/venues/organizations may choose to require masks at their own discretion. 

NEW YORK STATE AND CITY:

While state- and city-wide masking mandates have largely been lifted, businesses, local governments, and counties can choose to implement mask mandates. Mandates or recommendations on the local level supersede state mandates. 

Masks are still required in hospitals, nursing homes, shelters, public transportation, and related entities.

New York State and the State’s Department of Health continue to strongly recommend mask-wearing in all public indoor settings as an added layer of protection, even when not required. Unvaccinated individuals continue to be responsible for wearing masks, in accordance with federal CDC guidance. Learn about the best KN95 masks for COVID protection.

INDUSTRY UNION GUIDANCE:

For up-to-date requirements and recommendations for those working within a unionized sector; or to be referenced as Best Practices:

Please note:

Due to changes to NYS COVID-19 Restrictions and New York Forward Industry Guidance, some of the below recommendations have been archived or labeled as a best practice for general maintenance of public health within the workplace. The archived sections are still included within the content of these Standard Recommendations for reference and as a resource should a business wish to continue to abide by archived guidance.

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3. Classifications

Dance studio managers, note that your activities are likely considered moderate or high risk unless you are only allowing soloist work and/or a solo teacher for live streamed classes. The “type of dance risk” will vary based on the range of actual activities that you allow to occur in your studio and when, such as the following: individual or distanced group activities; organized no/low-contact group activities for specific, consistent groups; organized no/low-contact group activities for public groups; local performances and/or showings; and/or touring engagements of multiple performances and/or showings, requiring travel. 

Dance studio managers, consider establishing a pod, bubble, or cohort system:

  • Invest in a “bubbling” model for internal groups, like your dance company or staff, which allows a group of select individuals to interact mask-free due to established rules (e.g., living together, no interaction with anyone outside of your bubble, etc.), medical protocols, tests and vigilance. A presiding authority is required to decide what the rules, protocols, and vigilance measures should be for your bubble.
  • Implement a cohort model for internal groups, like your dance company or staff:
    • Use a survey to transparently explain the working cohort approach, expected participation, and any implications of opting out, as well as requesting comfort level ratings, questions, and concerns.
    • With members’ feedback, collectively finalize and agree on your cohort approach, with options to revisit it at any time or for members to opt out without financial repercussion at any time.
    • A working cohort approach may look like:
      • Requiring a COVID test prior to returning to work.
      • Requiring 100% participation in self-quarantine for the 14 days of quarantine, prior to returning to work.
      • Confirming COVID test results, when available, with all cohort members.
  • Privacy note: Due to the HIPAA Privacy Rule, your HR department or other internal point of contact cannot legally save or track detailed personal test information; they can merely track the date and “pass/fail.” If individuals are not comfortable sharing a screenshot or paper trail of test results, they may provide this information over an unrecorded, password protected zoom meeting (visually, without paper trail, or verbally).
  • An agreement to not increase each cohort member’s social bubble throughout rehearsals/performances and/or an agreement to get additional testing or quarantine in the instance that social interaction increases.
  • An agreement around travel to and from rehearsals/performances that could be in the form of intentional studio and venue selection based on proximity, investing in a stipend for (and encouraging) non-public transit, and/or a training around how to use public transportation in the safest manner possible, coupled with travel slated in during non-peak hours.
  • Requiring testing every two (2) weeks to ensure continued safety among the cohort.
  • Adjust your business model to create a cohort model for external groups, like dance classes and client rental bookings:
    • Note that when the individuals are not your employees, the cohort model will need to be more lenient and focused on your internal management and on-site health screenings as opposed to the individual testing, quarantining, and travel decisions of external parties.
    • Internally, you could lead with the goal to reduce exposure by doing the following:
      • Instead of drop-in classes offered to the public at large, make multiple dance class sessions available for sign up over a specific time period on different days or staggered within the same day.
      • Instead of ad hoc rentals offered to the public at large, prioritize larger-scale rental commitments like lockouts, space partnerships, those with clients who have consistent space needs over a specific time period, and/or one (1) rental client per day.

Understand that unionized visitors/renters may have further classified their work and may have additional protocols, regulations, and requests of you in order to utilize your space. Be sure to review and familiarize yourself with available union guidelines and integrate them into your reopening plans accordingly: 

  • Reference the most updated version of the American Guild of Musical Artists (AGMA) and Stage Directors and Choreographers Society’s (SDC) guidelines.
  • Reference SAG-AFTRA’s “Safety First” resources and The COVID-19 Return to Work Agreement, which is the outcome of unprecedented coordination and solidarity between the Directors Guild of America (DGA), International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE), International Brotherhood of Teamsters (IBT) and the Basic Crafts, and Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA), created in collaboration with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) to develop science-based protocols to minimize the risk of transmission, designed with the unique work environments of film and television production in mind. 

Bubble Performers: This is applied when all members of a company, including and not limited to the performers and production team, interact indoors without social distancing of at least 10 feet AND without the use of face coverings. 

  • Performers in a bubble must interact EXCLUSIVELY with the members of their bubble.
  • They must be tested for COVID-19 on a regular basis. 
  • They must cohabitate or live within a bubble or closed environment. 
  •  They should travel only to and from the rehearsal/performance space and other areas which they can use exclusively without other persons sharing the enclosed space (e.g. designated rehearsal space).
  • They must provide daily proof to the studio that the members of the production are maintaining their bubble. They can do this via activity logs, COVID-19 test results, social media monitoring, and check in/out procedures.  
  • Bubble Performers may perform, without masks or social distancing measures, at a studio provided there is at least 12 feet of space between the outer limits of the stage (defined as the space where the performers perform) and any audience member. 

North American Industry Classification System (NAICS)

In 2020-2021, businesses were able to use their NAICS number (a 2-6 digit number) to identify their industry’s open/closed/restricted status based on statewide COVID-19 closures and protocol. As of July 2022 there are no longer restrictions on businesses In New York State, but it is recommended that businesses know their NAICS number for both general use and in the event of potential industry-wide closures or restrictions in the future.

  • If you do not know your industry number (NAICS number), which is anywhere from two (2) to six (6) digits long, you can determine it here. Search a keyword related to your business in the top search bar on the left side of the page.
  • Please note that if your organization aligns with multiple industries, there may be more than one industry classification that is relevant.

Relevant NAICS codes:

  • NAICS 711120 – Dance Company
  • NAICS 561110 – Office Administrative Services
  • NAICS 711510 – Independent Artists, Writers, and Performers
  • NAICS 711310 – Promoters of Performing Arts, Sports, and Similar Events with Facilities
  • NAICS 711320 – Promoters of Performing Arts, Sports, and Similar Events without Facilities 
  • NAICS 711219 – Other Spectator Sports

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4. Masking

While state- and city-wide masking mandates have largely been lifted (including in public schools and most public spaces), businesses, local governments, and counties can choose to implement mask mandates. NYC allows cultural venues to determine their own policies regarding masks and vaccination. Venues and studios must clearly communicate these policies and may post signs alerting visitors as to masking and vaccination requirements.

Masks are still required in hospitals, nursing homes, shelters, public transportation, and related entities in New York City.

New York State and the State’s Department of Health continue to strongly recommend mask-wearing (and six feet of physical distancing) in all public indoor settings as an added layer of protection, even when not required and regardless of vaccination status. 

Any mask requirements that businesses choose to implement must adhere to all applicable federal and state laws and regulations (e.g., Americans with Disabilities Act).

The CDC recommends wearing a mask with the best fit, protection, and comfort for the individual. Loosely woven cloth products provide the least protection, layered finely-woven products offer more protection, well-fitting disposable surgical masks and KN95s offer even more protection, and well-fitting NIOSH-approved respirators (including N95s) offer the highest level of protection.

Acceptable face coverings for COVID-19 include, but are not limited to, cloth-based face coverings and disposable masks appropriate for exercise that cover both the mouth and nose. Learn about the CDC’s Guide to Masks.

  • Bandanas, buffs, masks with vents, or gaiters are not acceptable face coverings for dancers’ use in studios, theaters, or performing arts centers.
  • However, cloth, disposable, or other homemade face coverings are not acceptable face coverings for workplace activities that typically require a higher degree of protection for personal protective equipment (PPE) due to the nature of the work. For those activities, N95 respirators or other PPE used under existing industry standards should continue to be used, in accordance with OSHA guidelines. Learn about the best KN95 masks for COVID protection.
  • The CDC offers additional ways you can improve how your mask protects you.
  • For individuals who are unable to medically tolerate an acceptable face covering, Responsible Parties must ensure that such individuals wear a face shield at all times. However, the CDC “does not currently recommend use of face shields as a [sufficient] substitute for masks.”
  • Unvaccinated individuals continue to be responsible for wearing masks, in accordance with federal CDC guidance. 

Face coverings must be cleaned or replaced after use and may not be shared. Please consult the CDC guidance for additional information on cloth face coverings and other types of PPE, as well as instructions on use and cleaning.

  • Responsible Parties must advise employees and patrons/dancers/teachers/audience to regularly clean or replace their face coverings if they become wet or soiled.

Individuals may choose or be required to wear their face coverings during dance activity of any kind—performances (inclusive of any group activity with an audience like fully produced shows, informal shows, open rehearsals, practice sessions, dance battles, dance jams, etc.) classes, and rehearsals. When wearing such coverings interferes with necessary aspects such as hair, makeup, or wardrobe, performers may temporarily remove their face coverings and should don them as soon as possible. 

The following exceptions are permitted for all employees and patrons/dancers/teachers/audience members:

  • Individuals may be temporarily permitted to remove face coverings while eating or drinking, so long as they maintain six (6) feet of distance from other individuals.
  • Individuals may be temporarily permitted to remove face coverings in aquatic settings (e.g. pool, individual shower).
  • Individuals may be temporarily permitted to remove face coverings if they are working solo in a designated space (so long as there is adequate ventilation and room turnover time before the next individual enters the studio) or if the individuals in the space are cohabitating. 

Responsible Parties may further ensure individuals not participating in dance activities (e.g. teachers, audience members) wear acceptable face coverings when they are less than six (6) feet from other individuals, unless a physical barrier is present. Additionally, employees may be asked to wear face coverings anytime they interact with patrons/dancers/teachers/audience members, regardless of physical distance.

Responsible Parties should always have masks available for the public. If you are a dance studio that accommodates children, consider having a stock of child-size masks on site for distribution in addition to adult-size masks.

In addition to the necessary PPE as required for certain workplace activities, Responsible Parties must procure, fashion, or otherwise obtain acceptable face coverings, and provide such coverings to their employees while at work at no cost to the employee. Responsible Parties should have an adequate supply of face coverings, masks, and other required PPE on hand should an employee need a replacement, or should a patron/dancer/teacher/audience member be in need. 

Responsible Parties must train workers on how to adequately don, doff, clean (as applicable), and discard PPE, including, but not limited to, acceptable face coverings.

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5. Vaccines

For more information, please check out our VACCINES specific page.

Though no longer mandated by the city (except for the still-mandated private sector Workplace Vaccination Requirement), Responsible Parties may choose to continue following the vaccination policies outlined in the former Key to NYC Pass Program to maximize health and safety in their spaces. This program required that all people over the age of 5 show proof of two doses of a COVID-19 vaccine approved by or authorized for emergency use by the FDA or WHO (except for those 18 years and older who received the single dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine) for indoor dining, indoor fitness (includes dance and other fitness studios), and indoor entertainment (includes theaters and performance venues). 5-11-year-old children were also required to get vaccinated to participate in high-risk extracurricular activities, including sports, band, orchestra, and dance. These requirements also meant that employees working at these locations must be fully vaccinated. People 18 and older were required to show identification along with their proof of vaccination.

Key to NYC Workplace Vaccination Requirement: All private-sector employers in NYC must see proof of full vaccination from their employees. Those employers are required to sign and publicly post an affirmation that they’re complying with the mandate. Also included are rideshare drivers, people who rent space in a coworking office, and therapists who visit clients in their home. The City may fine employers $1,000+ for violations. Visit this City Vaccine Workplace Requirement webpage to learn more about complying with the mandate. Learn more about what employers need to know about the NYC Vaccine Mandate. 

Proof of vaccination

Proof of vaccination may include:

Excelsior Pass is a digital ecosystem that enables individuals to store digital proof of test results and/or vaccine status and businesses and venues to verify these items without accessing personal health data. Learn more and download the app on the New York Forward website. In considering the use of Excelsior Pass, account for the many data privacy and legitimate concerns from immigrant communities all over New York.

NYC COVID Safe App is part of the “Key to NYC Pass” initiative to provide proof of vaccination. Many New York City employers, businesses, and venues are requiring verification of immunization or weekly proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test for their workforce and patrons. Use this app to store and present the necessary documentation to verify that you have met these requirements. The documentation you upload into this app is not shared with anyone and stays on your phone only.

More information on COVID-19 Vaccines can be found here:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/index.html

https://covid19vaccine.health.ny.gov/

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6. Testing, Screening, Tracking

6a. Testing

For a comprehensive list of testing resources, please refer to our Vaccines and Testing page.

Responsible Parties may require proof of a negative Rapid (antigen) or PCR (molecular) test to enter a facility, studio, venue, performance space, etc. (may be in addition to or instead of requiring proof of vaccination).

  • While more accurate, PCR tests often take longer to give a result. Responsible Parties may request a negative PCR test from anywhere between the previous 24-72 hours, knowing that the more recent, the more accurate the test will be.
  • While generally less accurate, antigen (also called “rapid”) tests give results more quickly, usually within 15 minutes of taking the test. Responsible Parties may request a negative antigen test anywhere from immediately (testing done on-side) up to 24 hours prior to an event, knowing that the more recent, the more accurate the test will be. 

Responsible Parties may offer to perform FDA-authorized antigen (rapid) testing for individuals on the premises prior to a performance/event.

The following are recommendations for dance studio managers who are setting up a regular testing protocol:

  • Require COVID-19 tests for any office-based workers, staff, and/or faculty every two (2) to four (4) weeks.
  • Reiterate that COVID-19 testing is free, confidential, and available at various locations. 
  • Create an accountability plan for test monitoring, which may look like sending a screenshot of confirmed test results to your point of contact or HR department, sending an email confirming test results, reporting on test results verbally, showing test results in person, showing test results while on a video conference, or a combination of any of these methods based on individual comfort level.

CDC Recommendations for People with COVID-19 and COVID-19 Close Contacts (updated as of August 2022):

If you tested positive for COVID-19 or have mild symptoms and are waiting for test results:

  • Isolate. Stay at home for at least 5 days.
  • Wear a mask, stay in a separate room from other people, and use a separate bathroom if you can.
  • Do not travel for 10 days.
  • If you can’t wear a mask, stay home and away from other people for 10 days.
  • Contact your healthcare provider to discuss your test results and available treatment options.

At day 6 if symptoms are improving and you have no fever without fever-reducing medication for 24 hours:

  • You can leave isolation.
  • Keep wearing a mask around other people for 5 more days.

If your symptoms are not improving and/or you still have fever:

  • Continue to stay home until 24 hours after your fever stops without using fever-reducing medication and your symptoms have improved.

After you feel completely better, keep wearing a mask around other people at home and in public through day 10.

If you have you been in close contact with someone who has COVID-19:

  • Quarantine: If you are not up to date with COVID-19 vaccines or haven’t had COVID-19 in the past 90 days, stay home and away from other people for at least 5 days. Avoid travel through day 10. If you are up to date or had COVID-19 in the past 90 days you do not have to quarantine.
  • Wear a mask around other people for 10 days.
  • Watch for symptoms of COVID-19 for 10 days.
  • Get tested on or after day 5 or if you have symptoms. People who had COVID-19 in the past 90 days should only get tested if they develop symptoms.

Consider maintaining a frequently updated resource list for testing and healthcare, including a list of free or low-cost testing services. Should a person screen positive for COVID-19, they should be provided with this resource list. 

For those still seeking health insurance, consider directing them to:

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6b. Screening

Communicate in advance what members are required to disclose in daily health screenings and temperature checks and what happens if someone contracts COVID-19.

Dance studio managers, encourage all to self-monitor their symptoms. This may include but is not limited to:

  • Checking for fever > 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit, cough, shortness of breath twice a day 
  • Daily review of other symptoms that could be related, e.g. sore throat, congestion, headache, muscle and joint pain, chills, nausea or vomiting, diarrhea, loss of sense of smell, pink eye 

Anyone who develops symptoms should leave immediately, seek care from their physician, and isolate.

Clearly communicate who the central point of contact is for all patrons/dancers/teacher/audience members. This point of contact may vary by activity, location, shift, or day; they are responsible for receiving and attesting to having reviewed all health screening questionnaires, and for receiving information from patrons/dancers/teachers/audience members who later experience COVID-19-related symptoms.

  • Further consider creating a separate, universal email address for the point of contact and/or site safety monitor.

Consider conducting your health screenings in a flexible, equitable, and highly confidential manner:

  • Follow guidance from the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission regarding confidentiality of medical records from health checks.
  • Keep the HIPAA Privacy Rule in mind and use only pass/fail to denote results on health screening questionnaires and/or temperature checks, and do not save or share personal health information.
  • Prevent stigma and discrimination by making health screenings as private as possible.
    • Do not make determinations of risk based on race or country of origin, and be sure to maintain the confidentiality of each individual’s medical status and history.
  • Understand that the ADA permits employers to exclude employees with a medical condition that would pose a direct threat to health or safety, which is to be determined based on the best available objective medical evidence. 
    • Guidance from CDC or other public health authorities is such evidence. Therefore, employers will be acting consistent with the ADA as long as any screening implemented is consistent with advice from the CDC and public health authorities for that type of workplace at that time. 
  • Offer the choice to complete a daily health screening (questionnaire and/or temperature screening) either in person or virtually.
  • If implementing in-person health checks:
    • Conduct them safely and respectfully.
    • Use social distancing, barrier or partition controls, or personal protective equipment (PPE) to protect the screener. However, reliance on PPE alone is a less effective control and is more difficult to implement, given PPE shortages and training requirements.
    • Complete the health checks in a way that helps maintain social distancing guidelines, such as providing multiple screening entries into the building.

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6c. Tracking

Explain contact tracing procedures that come into place when someone from the group is infected, which can include where data is stored, how it is used, how long it is maintained. If possible, propose ways to notify other employers or other spaces in ways that are anonymous, or that don’t require personal data about a member’s families, addresses, etc.

Understand your insurance and potential liability issues should a member of your company or someone working with your company contract COVID-19:

  • Consult with your insurance broker to determine if your general liability policy covers COVID-19.
  • Know that it would be difficult, but not impossible, for the contraction of COVID-19 to be traced to your venue or company.
  • Let those employees covered by Worker’s Compensation Insurance know whether or not it covers them in the instance of COVID-19.
  • Regardless, in any instance of exposure to a confirmed case of COVID-19, you need to be ready to prove that all proper health and safety protocols were planned, clearly communicated, and implemented.

If you are a dance studio manager conducting performances, consider your ability to foster a safe environment with screening and tracing and tracking capability for all dancers and audiences by using the following:

  • Tickets and RSVPs, with all necessary contact information, required for attendance
  • On-site staff to manually collect necessary information to the best of their ability
  • A “sign-in” for the public when performing in a public space to capture necessary information to the best of your ability

Proceed with all of the above with the full understanding and transparency that you are not going to be able to enforce full public participation and/or cannot 100% ensure the safety of your dancers and the public this way.

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7. Physical Distancing

7a. General Best Practices

Take accessibility into account when modifying space layouts for social-distancing purposes:

  • Ensure wheelchair-accessible entrances to the studio, in addition to accessible bathroom facilities. 
  • Ensure the space remains in the same configuration for vision-impaired or blind people.
  • If you operate out of an older building not up to ADA codes, have explicit facility info (e.g. note any steps to doorways, restroom details such as railing positions, etc.) available on both your website and in your studio, as well as contact information for accessibility needs and/or questions.

Clarify and specify (in contracts, etc.) your facility’s right to monitor the activity and space during any on-site activities, to ensure adherence to safety protocols.

Consider providing a separate, designated holding space whenever necessary for non-dance activity (e.g. media shoots, equipment storage, auditions, green room, dancers office space) to promote increased social distancing and designated spaces for dance and non-dance activity.

If you are a dance studio that offers performances, create clear ingress and egress plans specific to your space in order to maintain physical distance. For instance, the studio could manage ingress/egress the same way flights do so as to clear space for patrons to enter and exit safely. 

  • Further train staff to manage crowds during emergency situations to mitigate the potential risk of COVID-19 contagion while individuals exit the studio. An emergency egress plan must be devised in coordination with the studio’s Fire Safety Official. You must have a plan posted at entry and exit points with instructions on how to exit during an emergency situation while maintaining at least six (6) feet of physical distance.

Be sure to maintain social distancing and wear an acceptable face covering when conducting any media or press interviews, as is expected as part of the NYS DOH’s “Media Production Guidance.”

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7b. Dance Activity Best Practices

Consider these physical-distancing scenarios as dependent on the type of dance activity, and modify the use of, reorganize, and/or restrict the capacity per studio and theater, along with access to related equipment, including dance floors (e.g. barres, mats, chairs, etc.), as needed:

  • General minimum six (6) feet of distance as much as possible. Greater distance = lower risk of transmission
  • At least eight (8) feet (10 feet is preferable) of distance between dancers who are side by side and at least ten (10) feet (12 feet is preferable) of distance between those dancers who are in front and/or behind when taping off dance areas in a studio, a theater, and/or performing arts centers. 
  • At least twelve (12) feet of distance between any dance teacher/instructor/faculty and the closest individual.
  • At least twelve (12) feet of distance between the perimeter of any dance activity area and the closest audience member.
  • At least six (6) feet of distance in all directions between all audience members.
  • At least six (6) feet of distance in all directions between musicians who do not require their breath to play instruments or perform.
  • In an instance where musicians’ performance space is not sectioned off or partitioned, musicians should maintain at least twelve (12) feet of physical distance between them and the closest audience member.
  • At least twenty-five (25) feet of distance between any live singer and the closest audience member.

Encourage all visitors/renters to arrive with dance clothes or costumes on or under street clothes to avoid communal gathering in dressing rooms, locker rooms, and bathrooms.

Discourage lingering on site. Encourage the “get in, dance, get out” approach, as coined by Ausdance NSW, for all on-site dance activity.

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7c. Enclosed Spaces

“Enclosed Spaces” are meant to encompass spaces without external ventilation such as windows and may include restrooms, elevators, locker rooms, dressing rooms, and some studio spaces.

If you are a dance studio with a consistent group like staff, faculty or a performance group, consider designating a specific restroom stall or facility for the staff’s, faculty’s, and/or performing group(s)’s exclusive use.

Be aware of and communicate the increased risk of exposure that comes with regularly using shared and/or enclosed spaces like elevators and restrooms. Encourage visitors to avoid them when possible, and when this is not possible, be sure to encourage wearing PPE and practicing thorough hand hygiene.

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8. Visitor Management

Responsible Parties must still maintain at minimum ADA compliance within their space modifications and must publicly communicate any changes or adjustments to accessibility measures within the space. 

Dance studio managers, consider these steps to accommodate a comfortable transition back into the indoor or outdoor studio/theater:

  • Establish clear communication, safety agreements, and protocols with all individuals, groups, and companies who engage with your space.
  • Offer collective and anonymous methods of gathering feedback and comfort level from all individuals, groups, and companies who engage with your space both prior to reopening and on an ongoing basis.
  • Be flexible as you schedule dance activity (keeping travel safety in mind) and projects, residencies, rental bookings, performances, and tours (keeping multiple ad hoc, public commitments to a minimum).
  • Explore and integrate virtual/digital processes into your venue’s workflow, and offer digital equipment access and streaming services, as requested. This is a backup measure in the instance of: 1) another lockdown and/or 2) some dancers opting out of indoor dance activity due to safety concerns.

The following are recommended BEST PRACTICES for additional safety and accessibility.

Responsible Parties should monitor and control the flow of traffic into the studio, theater, or performing arts center to ensure:

  • adherence to fire code and safety regulations
  • adherence to maximum capacity and physical distancing requirements, and
  • all individuals, including employees and patrons/dancers/teachers/audience members, sign in and complete a health screening.

Responsible Parties should put in place measures to reduce bi-directional foot traffic using tape or signs with arrows in narrow aisles, hallways, or spaces, or between equipment (including, but not limited to, barres, sound systems, dance floor, mats, media/live-stream equipment, poles, chairs, tables, props, musical instruments, microphones, etc.), and post signage and distance markers denoting spaces of six (6) feet in all commonly used areas and any areas in which lines are commonly formed or people may congregate (e.g. clock in/out stations, health-screening stations, break rooms, equipment checkout areas, cash register areas, locker rooms).

Responsible Parties should clearly designate separate entrances and exits, to the extent possible.

Responsible Parties must be prepared to queue patrons outside while still maintaining physical distance, including through the use of visual cues and/or queueing control devices (e.g. stanchions, line distance markers, arrows). 

 Responsible Parties should rearrange patron waiting areas (e.g. lines, parking areas) to maximize physical distance among other people and minimize interaction with others in the area. 

 Responsible Parties should limit on-site interactions (e.g. designate an egress(es) for individuals leaving the studio, theater, or performing arts center, and a separate ingress(es) for individuals entering) and movements (e.g. employees should remain near their workstations as often as possible).

When possible, Responsible Parties should limit the numbers of entrances in order to (1) manage the flow of traffic into the studio, theater, or performing arts center, and monitor occupancy/capacity limits and (2) facilitate sign-in and health screenings, while remaining in compliance with fire safety and other applicable regulations.

Responsible Parties should implement and encourage the use of appointments, reservations, and/or remote check-ins, particularly for rental, training, and performance operations, as a method for ensuring compliance with occupancy restrictions. 

Responsible Parties should implement specific visit times when issuing reservation confirmations (e.g. timed entrances and exits) for patrons, dancers, teachers, and/or audience members to stagger arrivals and departures and to avoid crowding. 

Responsible Parties may choose to implement “shifts” in which individuals sign up for designated times to train or rehearse, so as to create cohorts that remain consistent (i.e., the same set of people train or rehearse together each time). See Glossary for definitions of Cohort, Pod, and Bubble.

Responsible Parties must monitor and control the flow of traffic into the facility or area to ensure adherence to maximum capacity requirements.

As much as possible, Responsible Parties should consider staggering schedules for employees and patrons, dancers, teachers, and/or audience members to encourage physical distancing for any gathering (e.g. coffee breaks, meals, booking starts/stops, performances, rehearsal, etc.).

The following are recommendations for dance studio managers whose space typically welcomes on-site audiences:

  • Be sure to enforce all recommendations that apply to anyone entering the studio, theater, or performing arts center (e.g. mask wearing, health screening, social distance, etc.).
  • Consider limiting on-site audiences for informal gatherings like showings, open rehearsals, and classes.
  • Consider using virtual streaming as an alternative to reach these audiences.

The following are recommendations for dance studio managers when considering participants’ travel to and from rehearsals, class, and/or performances:

  • Strategically schedule classes, rehearsals, and other dance activity so that dancers can avoid public transit during rush hours.
  • Offer on-site digital streaming services and equipment to encourage continued digital class and performance streaming for those who do not feel safe traveling to or participating in in-person dance activities.

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9. Communication and Signage

Dance studio managers, consider digital and, if relevant, on-site signage related to your specific public reopening protocols, disclaimers, and/or codes of conduct to ensure transparency among everyone who engages with your company.

  • Further ensure that dancers or dance students with lived experience of disability fully understand the health risks and COVID safety measures and consent to participating in rehearsal, class, and/or performance with the knowledge they can withdraw, as desired, at any point.

Dance studio managers, communicate a “whistleblowing” method for dancers/renters/visitors/patrons to share when they feel unsafe or uncomfortable, or when they see someone not complying with health and safety measures. This method should allow for real-time reports and ongoing, anonymous reports/surveys.

The following is a cheat sheet of the top items to communicate with the public, in addition to anything mandated by state guidance:

  • Your reopening plan and safety protocols
  • Contact information for your reopening point of contact, site safety manager, and accessibility needs contact
  • A disclaimer providing a basic health risk reminder and liability release
  • The Code of Conduct for everyone participating in on-site activity
  • The plan or policy for addressing those (employees or public) who refuse to comply with NYS guidance and/or the facility safety protocols, and the whistleblower procedure for directing such concerns and instances
  • The specific cleaning and disinfectant products you are using throughout your studio, theater, and/or performing arts center to avoid any allergic or anaphylactic reactions

Craft an “Exposure to COVID-19 disclaimer” and an associated “Code of Conduct” to accompany any and all communications around your reopening plans and dance activities of any kind.

When communicating about your reopening publicly, consider streamlining your messages, such as:

  • What you are doing to keep performers and audience members safe
  • What you are doing to keep yourselves safe
  • What your specific policies and procedures are for [PARTICULAR AUDIENCE]:
    • Resident Dance Company
    • Visitors/Renters
    • Staff
    • Faculty
    • Audiences
    • Etc.
  • Further, tailor all digital communication whenever possible to provide the recipient as much clarity on what exactly is expected of them, as well as when and why such expectations apply.

If you don’t already have one, create a “Plan Your Visit/COVID” webpage that is updated in real time with your reopening plans, protocols and procedures, disclaimers, and code of conduct. 

Be sure to communicate how and if your limited on-site staffing affects your capacity to offer tailored on-site support for classes, rehearsals, and production as usual. 

Ensure all COVID-19 information and reopening protocols are communicated clearly and accessibly, whether written or spoken:

  • For all digital communication to your dance community (e.g. via Facebook or in your e-newsletters), ensure images are verbally described in the image’s caption and ensure that information can be read via screen readers (e.g. avoid screenshots of Twitter posts).
  • Review Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) to further your digital accessibility measures.
  • Depending on student/staff/parent cohorts, consider providing ASL interpretation of health updates, Braille versions of key signage and a COVID safe badge, and Easy Read versions of all or select COVID-related communications to support those who are deaf/hard of hearing, those who are blind/vision-impaired, or those with intellectual disability.
  • For spoken communication to people with companions, ensure communication is directed squarely to the person and not their companion.
Consider communicating (e.g. on your website, in rental agreements, in class and space confirmation emails) what cleaning and disinfectant products you are using to avoid any allergic or anaphylactic reactions.

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10. Hygiene, Cleaning & Disinfection

Consider the following recommendations for sanitizing dance and theater flooring:

Most vinyl dance flooring cannot be cleaned with bleach solutions. Ammonia-based or pH-neutral cleaners that are generally used do not disinfect properly for COVID-19. 

  • At least once a day, the floors should be cleaned as usual, followed by a cleaning with 90+ alcohol in a sprayer and spread by a mop. The mop pad should be washed with soap and hot water in the washing machine between uses. 
  • Disinfecting the floors with this alcohol solution should ideally happen prior to every class or rehearsal.

Reduce the number of surface areas whenever possible (e.g., put away folding tables and chairs, remove unnecessary equipment, close off cubby holes, put away shelving units). Restrict access to surfaces that individuals may touch. 

Communicate with your landlord to accurately develop your own safety and ventilation measures in relation to building standards.

Consider hosting advance, digital training on COVID-19 safety, including hand and respiratory hygiene, PPE protocols and access, and cleaning and disinfection protocols and procedures. Promote ongoing, regular training sessions for your staff and presented artists. Example resources include: 

Maintain a cleaning and disinfection log that complies with NYS requirements on the regular cleaning and disinfection of facilities, equipment, and high-touch surfaces.

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10a. Air Handling Systems

Please note that running an indoor (in most cases) location has the following airflow implications:

  • Exercising indoors can pose a greater risk of transmission than exercising outdoors for multiple reasons, including air flow and being in an enclosed space.
  • Sharing the same air for longer than 10 minutes increases the chances of exposure and infection. 
  • Additional measures you can take include:
    • Maximizing fresh air intake:
      • Open windows when possible.
      • Keep doors open when possible.
      • Consider adding fans in windows for increased fresh air flow.
      • Position fans to direct air in a single direction.
      • When possible, air flow should be directed above head level to prevent air blowing directly from one person into another.
      • Change all HVAC filters to at least MERV – 13 filters. 
  • Consider changing HVAC filters on a more regular and/or frequent basis.
  • Change HVAC settings to a higher percentage of fresh air intake where applicable.
  • Clean HVAC systems regularly.
  • Change settings on AC units to fresh air intake when possible.
  • Leave adequate time between studio users to have the air completely recirculate (i.e., staggered scheduling).
  • When possible, split up groups so there are fewer people sharing space at any given time. Always follow CDC and state capacity requirements. 
  • Consider air purifiers and filters for rooms that do not have any windows, though they have not been tested and proven to filter out COVID-19.
  • If fans are being used, make sure they are being cleaned regularly with products registered by the EPA as effective to kill COVID-19.
  • Confirm exhaust fans in bathrooms are running all the time and at a minimum 1.0 cfm/sf.
  • For additional advice, consult with an Industrial Hygienist for your specific space.

Consider in-theater airflow signage that denotes:

  • the location and direction of air-conditioning and/or fans,
  • confirmation of an HVAC filtration rating that aligns with state guidelines and/or an outline of additional filtration measures taken, and
  • a reminder that occupants should limit the patrons/dancers/teachers/audience members within these airflow paths.

Consider strategically configuring audience seating in studios and/or theaters to minimize the number of individuals within direct airflow paths.

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11. Return-to-Office Guidance

Consider equitable options for those staff who may not feel safe returning to the studio:

  • Have a conversation about the following options: 1) to be furloughed so that they may collect unemployment compensation and not have the obligation of work for the time being, or 2) to be kept on payroll and temporarily reassigned.
  • Have a conversation about how their role can temporarily shift until they feel comfortable to safely return.
  • Temporarily assign them to remotely support reopening planning with you.
  • Temporarily assign them to remote administrative duties or a team in need of additional support.
  • Encourage remote professional development activity, mentoring, or shadowing of colleagues working in other areas of interest.
  • Deploy them remotely as a representative and information gatherer across field-wide calls, meetings, conversations, panels, webinars, etc.

If you are a dance studio with a Human Resources staff or department, consider empowering these staff in your reopening efforts, especially when it comes to:

  • managing health screenings, logs, testing data, tracing communications, and other confidential information, etc., and
  • assisting with clear inter-studio/staff communication and updates. 

If you are a dance studio without a Human Resources staff or department:

  • Nominate a leader within the staff to manage health screenings, logs, testing data, tracing communications, and other confidential information, as well as to assist with clear inter-studio/staff communication and updates.
  • Take on and prioritize managing health screenings, logs, testing data, tracing communications, and other confidential information, as well clear inter-studio/staff communication and updates yourself.

Review, edit, and implement safe workforce policies and procedures around workday schedules, remote time, lunch breaks, sick leave policy, and benefits. In addition to general cleaning and training, consider placing your on-site “essential” workers in customer service training, de-escalation training, and COVID-19 management training.

Consider reviewing and providing de-escalation training for your frontline, on-site staff. As you consider de-escalation training, look to training that offers an anti-oppressive lens, which could mean that they don’t rely on calling police or other law enforcement agencies. Some resources include:

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12. Commerce

The following are recommendations for dance studios that sell merchandise on site:

  • Move merchandise sales to digital only.
  • Designate an area for merchandise sales that adheres to all social distancing protocols. 
  • Limit point of sale to no-touch methods, including payment.
  • Ensure all merchandise staff members follow the NYS DOH retail guidelines applicable to their region for any retail service activities.

The following are recommendations for dance studios that offer food and/or beverage on site:

  • Close dining and/or beverage service whenever possible, as these activities require the temporary removal of face coverings.
  • Designate an area for food and/or beverage, separate from any areas in which dance activity takes place, that adheres to all social distancing protocols.
  • Limit point of sale to no-touch methods, including payment.
  • Remove or modify table and chair layouts according to social distancing protocols.
  • Ensure all food servers and/or bartenders follow the NYS DOH food service guidelines applicable to their region for any food service activities.
    • This includes a more limited capacity of at most 25% in any areas where food and/or beverage are/is being served and consumed.
  • When hiring third-party vendors, acknowledge that you are responsible for the safety of all patrons within your facility. 
    • All third-party vendors must conduct their activity within the Responsible Party’s regulations AND within the regulation of the specific industry of the third-party vendor. If the third-party vendor cannot meet BOTH regulatory requirements, they must not be permitted to operate within the studio.. 
    • The third-party vendor and the studio may combine their efforts to meet the regulatory requirements (e.g., contact tracing, temperature checks, etc.). 
    • The terms of their engagement, along with a specific listing of their duties and responsibilities, must be agreed upon prior to the event. 
    • Certifications, Affirmations, and Certificate of Authorization of the third-party vendor, and any other documents required by the state or city, must be visible to all patrons. These and any other documents must be provided to the studio upon request. 

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13. Touring Companies and Travel Information

If you are a dance studio manager who welcomes touring engagements, note state, national, and international travel restrictions and updates. The following are recommendations as you plan future touring engagements:

  • Share your full reopening plans and protocols with the touring party. They will be expected to comply with them, and may negotiate any additional safety concerns prior to moving to contract.
  • Ensure your contract includes a contact-tracing clause that requires both parties to update one another on confirmed COVID cases or symptoms for at least two (2) weeks after the final date of on-site engagement.
  • Confirm if any additional studio, storage, tech, and/or performance space is needed by the touring parties and what level of exclusive use your studio can provide them during their time on site.
  • Confirm the safety measures of any travel or housing arrangements that you make or recommend for the touring party.
  • During the month prior to the engagement, notify the touring party of any updates on the virus, state guidance, and quarantine restrictions.
  • Prior to departure, confirm any audience protocols and any expected pre- or post-show activity, intensives, classes, publicity calls, etc. 
    • Wherever possible, opt for non-performance activity to be virtual.
  • Determine your “last-minute” plan of action (back-up faculty, intensive straightforward cancellation with refunds, etc.), should travel restrictions change, or should the touring party need to opt out, have a confirmed case of COVID-19, have a member with COVID-related symptoms, and/or have a member who has been exposed to someone with COVID-19.

Be aware of and communicate these current requirements for international travel (as of August 2022):

The following rules apply, as per the CDC’s International Travel Requirements:

  • U.S Citizens, U.S. Nationals, U.S. Lawful Permanent Residents, and Immigrants traveling internationally to the USA
    • no vaccine requirement to re-enter the U.S.
  • Non-U.S. Citizens, Non-U.S. Immigrants:
    • You must be fully vaccinated to travel to the United States by plane if you are a non-U.S. citizen, non-U.S. immigrant (not a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, lawful permanent resident, or traveling to the United States on an immigrant visa). Only limited exceptions apply.

The CDC strongly recommends that you do not travel internationally until you are fully vaccinated. Getting vaccinated is still the best way to protect yourself from severe disease, slow the spread of COVID-19, and reduce the number of new variants. People who are not fully vaccinated should follow additional recommendations before, during, and after travel.

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14. Make a Plan

Dance studio managers, a suggested step-by-step process to craft your reopening plans is as follows:

  • Confirm how your business is classified (see Section 3: Classifications: NAICS) and keep this in mind when crafting your plans and proceeding with reopening.
  • Reminder: If you don’t know your industry number (NAICS), you can find it here
  • Read the Standard Recommendations for Dance for an understanding of reasonable fieldwide expectations at this time.
  • Copy and paste the Standard Recommendations for Dance onto your branded letterhead.
    • Leave as is and/or remove only the items that are not relevant to your business model.
  • Copy and paste all applicable Dance Field Scenarios for your business model onto your branded letterhead.
  • Review all suggestions within the Dance Field Scenarios and remove, add to, edit, and/or tailor them based on your specific dance studio and business model.
  • Copy and paste all of your edited, tailored Dance Field Scenarios into the respective Sections and Subsections of the Standard Recommendations for Dance to create one (1) tailored plan.
  • Rename your tailored document or the Standard Recommendations for Dance + relevant Dance Field Scenario(s) to create your reopening plan.
    • Example: Movement Research Reopening Plan, as of [DATE]
  • Complete a safety plan template based on your reopening plan. Reminder: The New York HERO Act, which designated COVID-19 as an airborne infectious disease that presents a serious risk of harm to public health, is no longer in effect. Private sector employers are still required to have an Infectious Disease Exposure Prevention Plan (the “Plan”), but are no longer required to implement the Plan at this time. Employers can adopt a model safety plan as crafted by the New York State Department of Labor during the HERO Act, or the New York State Department of Health (DOH) NY Forward Safety Plan Template.
  • Compile your package of reopening plans:
    • Your Completed Safety Plan (see above; either the NYS DOL HERO Act Safety Plan, or the NYS DOH NY Forward Safety Plan).
    • Your Reopening Plan based on the Standard Recommendations and Dance Field Scenarios.
    • Any resources, supplementary materials, or articles that are particularly relevant.
  • Disseminate your package of reopening plans, noting that they are subject to change:
    • Digitally share with all dancers, dance workers, dance faculty/teachers, staff, collaborators, renters, Board, etc.
    • Post the package of reopening materials throughout your space.
    • Consider posting on your website for greater transparency across the field.
    • Keep a printed copy on hand for use in the instance of an inspection.
  • Implement your plan and lean on our other resource pages:
    • Posters and Templates for samples and templates
    • News Archive for an archive of news and updates
    • FAQ for answers to common questions
    • Glossary for definitions and acronyms
    • Resources for more detailed information
  • Update your plan periodically based on the:
  • Re-disseminate, re-post, and re-implement each new iteration of your plans.

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