Boston has recently released its Best Practices Worksheet for essential projects and projects approved as exempt. Other Massachusetts communities, at the invitation of the governor, are enforcing the COVID-19 Guidelines and Procedures that the state is using for its projects.
To run a safe and compliant project, there should be site-specific plans and postings on such things as:
limiting site access
daily wellness certification and appropriate temperature screening
social distancing
regular hand washing, including upon arrival, before eating and before leaving
PPE (gloves/masks/eyewear)
cleaning common areas and touchpoints, and any equipment that must be shared
protocol in the event of a suspected or confirmed COVID-19 infection
Additionally, an individual should be assigned as a safety officer to coordinate site safety efforts and to do appropriate daily reporting.
Responsibility for safety plans is usually contractually flowed down to the contractor, however project owners must stay involved. If you are a project owner or a contractor with any questions about your role, we would be happy to help. Contact our Construction Practice Group Chair, Jed Ruccio, at jruccio@msullc.com or 774-539-7341.