Reopening Guidance for Workplaces, Businesses, Etc.

Greater Houston Partnership Guidance

As the Houston region moves to reopen our economy, it is important that we do so safely, sustainability and successfully. To aid companies planning to reopen or expand their operations, the Greater Houston Partnership developed these principles to help businesses develop plans to protect the health of their employees and customers by reducing the risk of transmission of the COVID-19 virus.

Learn more on the GHP website.

State of Texas Guidance

The Governor’s Report to Open Texas provides a full explanation of the State plan to reopen businesses and services. This includes who can open, when, and what restrictions may still be in place. It also provides safety and hygiene recommendations and checklists for residents, employers, and employees designed to help contain COVID-19. Below is a partial list of the key points. Residents should consult the full order for additional details. Business owners unsure of their status should seek legal counsel.

Per Texas Governor Greg Abbott’s order, as of Friday, May 8:

• Hair salons, barbershops, nail salons, and tanning salons can reopen if they choose. Workstations at hair salons, barbershops, nail salons and tanning salons must be at least 6 feet apart and must be fully sanitized after each customer visit. All beauty services should use disposable supplies when possible. Any non-disposable supplies must be fully sanitized between customers.
• Indoor and outdoor swimming pools can operate at 25% capacity. Interactive water venues, like water parks and splash pads, are still closed.
• On May 18, gyms and other exercise facilities can reopen at 25% occupancy (this percentage excludes workers). Workout equipment should be spaced out to allow at least 6 feet between patrons, and cleaning supplies should be placed throughout the facility to clean off equipment after use. Locker and shower facilities must remain closed.

Per Texas Governor Greg Abbott’s order, as of Friday, May 1:

• Essential businesses may continue operations as usual
• Restaurants, retail stores, and movie theaters can reopen if they choose. Occupancy is limited to 25% of their capacity.
• All museums and libraries may open at 25% capacity but interactive areas – where multiple people touch things – must remain closed
• Sole proprietors and practitioners may return to work
• Places of worship can be open with appropriate distancing practices
• Outdoor sporting activities with less than 4 participants playing at any one time
• Licensed healthcare professionals may return to work but hospitals must continue to reserve 15% of their capacity for COVID-19 patients
• Barbershops, hair and nail salons, and gyms are NOT to open yet – a further decision on these businesses is expected in mid-May