On July 30 DSS sent a memo to all licensed entities, including ALFs noting the applicability of the emergency temporary standard (ETS) issued by the Virginia Department of Labor and Industry (DOLI). Of note, the ETS training requirements take effect on August 26, 2020.

DSS also issued a document on July 22 outlining recommended COVID-19 Mitigation Plans for Assisted Living Facilities (ALFs), numerous tips and best practices for reopening certain services. 

DOLI Emergency Temporary Standard

DSS’s memo explains the ETS became effective on July 27, 2020 and apply to every employer, employee, and place of employment in Virginia. The ETS establish requirements for employers to control, prevent, and mitigate the spread of the coronavirus. Of note, the ETS training requirements take effect on August 26, 2020.

Resources related to the ETS are available on this DOLI webpage. 

COVID-19 Mitigation Plans for ALFS and Tips and Best Practices

DSS recommends that any plan for mitigating the impact of COVID-19 address the following components:

• Testing/screening
• Infection prevention and control
• Personal protective equipment
• Staffing
• Cohorting and designation of space
• Communication

Additionally, DSS issued Tips and Best Practices for:

• Tips and Best Practices for Reopening Barber and Cosmetology Services (July 23, 2020)
• Tips and Best Practices for Reopening Communal Activities (July 23, 2020)
• Tips and Best Practices for Reopening Communal Dining (July 23, 2020)
• Tips and Best Practices for Reopening to Visitors (July 23, 2020)
• Tips and Best Practices for Transportation (July 23, 2020)

Additional Resources 

• VHCA-VCAL Timeline for COVID-19 Regulations and Guidance (August 17, 2020 Revision)
• VDH Long Term Care Task Force webpage
• DSS ALF Recommendations for Reopening (July 23, 2020)
• CDC Considerations for Preventing Spread of COVID-19 in Assisted Living Facilities