ARTICLE
Due to the increased rate of COVID-19 infections across the state, the Governor has brought more emphasis on his "Cluster Action Initiative." The initiative divides COVID clusters and the areas around them into three categories with successively higher restrictions within each one: Yellow Zone; Orange Zone; and Red Zone. At this time, the good news for our industry is that construction in general continues to be deemed essential. So, as of now, if the infection rate in our area moves to where we are to "yellow" to "orange" or the highest category, "red", construction projects would be able to continue At this time, the good news for our industry is that construction in general continues to be deemed essential. So, as of now, if the infection rate in our area moves to where we are to "yellow" to "orange" or the highest category, "red", construction projects would be able to continue. WHAT DO THE ZONES MEAN? Yellow Zone "Precautionary Zone" Activity restrictions only Orange Zone "Warning Zone" Certain non-essential business shall reduce in-person workforce by 100%. Red Zone "Cluster" All non-essential businesses shall reduce in-person workforce by 100%. New York's micro-cluster strategy detects small outbreaks and takes action to eliminate them. "Cluster zone" focus areas are designated based on geographic case prevalence and restrictions are implemented accordingly based on the severity of spread. Buffer zones with fewer restrictions are implemented in the areas outside the most impacted areas to help prevent further spread. After 14 days, data will be reviewed to determine whether a focus area has successfully reduced viral spread to the level where restrictions can be eased. If you have active worksites in designated Yellow, Orange or Red Zones, be aware of the possible impacts. Relevant Links: • Cluster Action Initiative • Initiative Guidance from ESD • Micro Cluster Metrics • New York Micro Cluster Strategy Explained