Arizona joined numerous states around the country yesterday when Governor Doug Doucey issued his “Stay Home, Stay Healthy, Stay Connected” order, requiring individuals to stay home except to engage in limited activities deemed essential. The order was issued on March 30, 2020, and takes effect at 5:00 p.m. on March 31, 2020 (Executive Order 2020-18).
The governor’s order allows “Essential Infrastructure Operations” and “Essential Businesses” to continue operating, which includes companies engaged in manufacturing, distributing, and supplying critical products and industries. The governor had previously issued an order prohibiting the closure of businesses and services deemed essential (Executive Order 2020-12); his stay-at-home order incorporates the same definitions used in this previous order, allowing such businesses to continue operations.
Businesses that are allowed to continue operating must implement rules and procedures that facilitate physical distancing and spacing of individuals at least six feet apart. Businesses that must close are allowed to continue operating activities that don’t require in-person, on-site transactions, and are encouraged to maintain at least minimum basic operations to preserve the condition of the business.
Tips For Employers: Review Arizona’s order to evaluate whether your business qualifies as part of the Essential Infrastructure or an Essential Business; there are many categories that could apply to your business, particularly those in manufacturing and agriculture. If you’re allowed to continue operating, you must implement rules and procedures that ensure social distancing. Review Vigilant’s new Social Distancing Policy for help getting started. You should also evaluate if any of your employees can perform work remotely; if feasible, you should provide them with the necessary tools to do so. Review our Telecommuting Agreement for ideas on how to successfully set up your employees for remote work.
Correction: April 24, 2020
The links to the two executive orders were corrected.
