Masks? Gloves? What to expect when Washington retail stores start to re-open

Retail stores across Washington are preparing for the first stage of reopening their stores and allowing contact-less pickup and delivery following the coronavirus shutdown.

The Washington Retail Association provided retailers with guidelines and checklists for conducting business, including taking employees’ temperatures before work, limiting interactions between employees and sending home anybody who falls ill during their shift.

In the first phase of reopening, many stores will still be closed to the public, but will have a limited number of employees working to service online shopping, contact-less curbside pickup and home delivery. Employees will be wearing masks and gloves and will be practicing social distancing when delivering products.

After an undetermined period of time, phase two will see retailers opening their doors to the public, but with strict safety and distancing measures implemented. Shoppers can expect stores let in 20% to 50% of normal capacity, stay at least six feet apart from other shoppers, wear protective equipment such as masks and gloves and maintain contact-less service wherever possible.

Phase three will see the end of COVID-19 related restrictions, but will still encourage stores to be diligent in sanitizing and cleaning high-risk areas including bathrooms, keypads and door handles, as well as maintaining good hygiene.

Gov. Jay Inslee’s stay-at-home order remains in effect until May 31 and only essential businesses such as grocery stores, gas stations and takeout restaurants are open to the public.

This story was originally published May 7, 2020 at 10:26 AM with the headline "Masks? Gloves? What to expect when Washington retail stores start to re-open."