Resources for Businesses and Community Organizations

Page updated July 9, 2020 at 1:00 pm

I am looking for:

Safe Start reopening guidance
Sector-specific guidance
What to do if a worker tests positive or is sick
Economic support for COVID-19

On May 4, Governor Inlsee signed an order to re-open Washington State’s economy under the state’s “Safe Start” plan.

Safe Start Reopening Guidance

A lot of information exists to help businesses reopen, so we’ve created a single place to connect you to the best resources we’ve found to guide you through reopening.

Check back soon for more tips and tools from the COVID Employer Support Task Force.

Whatcom County Businesses Safe Start Guide (PDF).
COVID-19 Reopening Guidance for Businesses and Workers: find current guidelines and requirements for each business sector from the state’s coronavirus website.
Rebound and Recovery Toolkit: From the Association of Washington Businesses, find Safe Start Plan templates, signage, and other resources.
Washington State Safe Start Work Plan Template for Phase 3.
Masks and Face Covering Guidance from Washington State Department of Health.
Overview of COVID-19 Statewide Face Covering Requirements.

Additional Resources

Washington State Resources

Safe Start Webpage: general information about Washington’s Safe Start phased approach
Resources and Recommendations (Washington State Department of Health (DOH)): safety and health guidance and resources.
Washington State Department of Labor and Industries (L&I) COVID-19 outbreak resources, General COVID-19 work place requirements, and their COVID-19 prevention summary.

National Resources

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: updated strategies and recommendations for employers responding to COVID-19, including cleaning and disinfection, a Resuming Business Toolkit and interim guidance for businesses and employers responding to COVID-19.
U.S. Department of Labor (OSHA): information on how to protect workers from potential exposures, according to their exposure risk. Information on interim guidance and other resources for preventing exposure to and infection with COVID-19.

Sector-specific Guidance

Child Care and Schools	Checklist for child care administrators Guidelines for Childcare Providers & Early Learning
Faith Community	Engaging Safely with Your Religious Community during the COVID-19 outbreak FAQs for Faith-Based Communities Guidance for Drive-In Religious Services

What to do if a worker is sick or tests positive for COVID-19

Our FAQ document outlines what to do when a worker shows signs of COVID-19 or tests positive.

Our staff are here to help guide you and answer questions. You can contact us:

By email: health-BRT@co.whatcom.wa.us
During business hours: (360) 778-6100
After hours: (360) 715-2588

Remember that employees or volunteers who are sick should immediately be sent home and should not come to work while they are sick.