Business Reopening and Recovery
Get guidance and clarity around reopening your business and resuming operations safely.
Resources to Operate Safely
The Province of Nova Scotia announced that non-essential retailers are required to close in-person services. This includes restaurants, personal and wellness services, and more. Find the latest information on their website.
COVID-19 Prevention Plan Template
Developing a plan to reopen your business and don’t know where to start? We’ve created an easy-to-use template to you safely resume operations. We are also sharing our own COVID-19 Return to Office Safety and Operational Plan.
Frequently asked questions
What public health protocols do I need to follow in order to reopen?
Your business must follow the rule for physical distancing (2 metres/6 feet) with the exception of select exempt employers. If you can’t maintain social distancing because of the physical size of your business, then the 10-person gathering limit applies. There are other industry-specific requirements identified in the Health Protection Act Order that you should check.
For additional information on safe practice and operating guidelines see the Province’s Workplace COVID-19 Prevention Plan Checklist.
Do I need a workplace COVID-19 prevention plan?
Every business should develop a plan to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and comply with the Health Protection Act Order and public health directives to ensure the safety of employees and customers. See the Province’s Workplace COVID-19 Prevention Plan Checklist for more information on safe practice guidelines to help you develop a plan for your business.
Do I need to provide personal protection equipment (PPE) for employees?
This depends on the industry and nature of business you operate. Although most businesses are not required to provide PPE for employees, it is highly encouraged especially if your business deals with the public.
Where can I find sector plans?
For the latest list of sector-specific plans to help protect workers and customers from COVID-19 visit the Province of Nova Scotia website.
Should I put up signs saying masks are mandatory?
Businesses, organizations and workplaces where masks are required under the public health order (or under their own policies) are encouraged to post a sign to let customers and clients know that masks are mandatory. Download a Face Mask Required sign here.
What spaces can a retail business consider private?
The mask requirement applies to the spaces the public has ready access to, not the private spaces. Business owners/employers can choose to set their own policies for private spaces.
Do office workers need to wear a mask?
In an office building, masks are required in the common areas such as the lobby, elevators and hallways. Once you enter a private business’s space, masks are not mandatory under the public health order. A private business may set its own policies for mask use.
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Minder Singh
Senior Account Executive, Commercialization, SmartBusiness Program
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