Below is a summary of what was discussed at the BOMA/Chicago Preparedness Committee Meeting on March 17, 2020. The meeting was held by conference call to discuss the current COVID-19 pandemic and included a wide range of attendees, including members of the Chicago Police Department, Department of Homeland Security, and other government agencies.

The Chicago Police Department (CPD) Update:

• There is full staffing in place for the CPD.
  • All large special events are cancelled.
  • Protests are still a possibility.
  • The response times are shorter due to decreased call volume in CBD.

Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Update:

• The DHS is monitoring the supply chain and strategic logistical issues.

BOMA/Chicago Update:

• BOMA/Chicago is reviewing its active union contracts, including janitorial and security; more information available shortly.
  • BOMA website at bomachicago.org has links to multiple resources.

Other Information

• All bars and restaurants in the state are now either closed or only doing carry-out.
• Establishing rumor control and promoting accurate information are highly valued during a crisis such as the current pandemic.
• The committee reviewed the experience of having a confirmed COVID-19 case at a commercial building downtown.
• A copy of the city of San Francisco’s shelter-in-place order was sent to the committee for reference.

Resources

BOMA International has released a COVID 19 Preparedness Checklist, to help property professionals navigate this public health concern.

Business and Workplace Resources

Interim Guidance for Business and Employers (US CDC)

Guidance for Preparing Workplaces on COVID-19 (OSHA) Environmental Cleaning and Disinfection Recommendations (US CDC)

The City of Chicago issued Guidance and Support for Covid-19 Restrictions on Restaurant Dining and Taverns.

Restaurant Dining and Tavern Closure Q&A from the City of Chicago Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection

Employment Laws and COVID-19 Health Emergencies

COVID-19 or Other Public Health Emergencies and the Fair Labor Standards Act Questions and Answers) – US Department of Labor

COVID-19 or Other Public Health Emergencies and the Family and Medical Leave Act Questions and Answers – US Department of Labor

Pandemic Preparedness in the Workplace and the Americans with Disabilities Act – US Equal Employment Opportunity Commission

COVID-19 – Occupational Health and Safety Administration

Interim Guidance for Business and Employers – US CDC

As always, if you “See Something, Say Something”. For life-threatening emergencies, call 911. To report suspicious activity, call 855-RPRT-2-S4 (855-777-8274).