The choice to reopen businesses to attempt to rescue the economy has been a point of contention for many in recent weeks on local and state governments. South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster ordered that businesses are allowed to open up again on April 20th, but the city of Charleston has added a few more rules to keep residents safe.
Charleston’s regulations are the toughest of any of the other cities around the state, making it more of a challenge for business owners to open their doors. For example, the governor’s order stated that there can only be five customers per 1,000 square feet or 20% of the space, whichever is smaller.
Charleston is requiring that this number be posted at the entrances of the stores and that an employee be tasked with keeping track of the occupants. They must also add markers around the store designating 6-foot distances and allocate aisles to only allow one-way movement so that traffic does not overlap.
Additionally, high traffic parts of the store where things are touched more often must be identified and sanitized frequently, and a log of the cleanings must be kept. Employees also have to be monitored for any symptoms, such as fever, in order to be allowed to work. Business owners must offer non-punitive sick leave policies, so employees do not report to work when ill.
These regulations are the most stringent of all the South Carolina cities. Businesses must follow said regulations or face possible fines of $100 and up to 30 days of jail time. There are many parts to keep track of while reopening, per the city’s requirements. If mistakes are made and your business receives a citation or comes into more trouble, it is best to contact an experienced defense attorney who could help represent you in court. The legal team at Adams & Bischoff has courtroom experience that could aid you in fighting for the rights of your business. Contact our firm today for a consultation.
