Some restrictions lifted on construction work
Building permits in Moses Lake have increased considerably the last couple of years, which suggests an uptick in construction as well.
Emry Dinman/Columbia Basin Herald
OLYMPIA — Some construction activities in Washington can begin immediately following the partial lifting of a statewide order banning private construction. Governor Jay Inslee announced the lifting of some restrictions in a press conference Friday morning.
Inslee said the procedure used to restart construction projects could be used to plan reopening of other industries and businesses that have been shut down during the COVID-19 outbreak.
Inslee said state officials should have announcements shortly about allowing some elective surgeries in hospitals, although he did not provide a time frame. Announcements also are pending on allowing some outdoor activities, Inslee said. He declined to provide a time frame for those either.
In the case of other industries that are still shut down, Inslee said he couldn’t give time frames to start reopening. The planning for other industries will follow the procedure established for construction, starting with groups of industry leaders.
Construction jobs must be what Inslee called “low risk” to qualify for reopening. Workers must be able to work at least six feet apart, and protective equipment like face masks and gloves will be required, along with frequent and extensive cleaning of equipment.
- Cheryl Schweizer