Exhibit 5
DALLAS COUNTY

1

AMENDED ORDER OF COUNTY JUDGE CLAY JENKINS

Safer At Home Order

DATE AMENDED ORDER ISSUED: April 3, 2020

WHEREAS, pursuant to Texas Government Code Section 418.108, Dallas County Judge Clay 

Jenkins issued a Declaration of Local Disaster for Public Health Emergency on March 12, 2020,

due to a novel coronavirus now designated SARS-CoV2 which causes the disease COVID-19;

WHEREAS, on March 12, 2020, Judge Jenkins issued an Order in furtherance of his authority to 

protect the safety and welfare of the public by slowing the spread of the virus;

WHEREAS, the on-going evaluation of circumstances related to the virus and the updated 

recommendations of the Centers for Disease Control and the Texas Department of State Health

Services warrant the March 12, 2020 Order of County Judge Clay Jenkins be amended;

WHEREAS, on March 16, 2020, President Trump acknowledged the gravity of the COVID-19 

pandemic, releasing strict new guidelines to limit people’s interactions, including that Americans 

should avoid groups of more than 10 people; 

WHEREAS, on March 19, 2020, the Dallas County Commissioners Court issued an Order of 

Continuance of Declaration of Local Disaster for Public Health Emergency that affirmed the 

activation of the Dallas County Emergency Management Plan and extends the Declaration of Local 

Disaster until 11:59 p.m. on April 3, 2020, unless rescinded by order of the Commissioners Court.

WHEREAS, on March 24, 2020, the World Health Organization indicated that the United States 

has the potential to become the center of the COVID-19 pandemic;

WHEREAS, this Emergency Order is necessary because of the propensity of the virus to spread 

person to person and also because the virus is physically causing property damage due to its 

proclivity to attach to surfaces for prolonged periods of time;

WHEREAS, this Emergency Order is necessary to protect the lives, health, welfare, and safety of 

the County’s residents from the devastating impacts of this pandemic;

THEREFORE, the March 12, 2020, Order of County Judge Clay Jenkins is hereby AMENDED 

as follows:

Summary: The virus that causes 2019 Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) is easily transmitted

through person to person contact, especially in group settings, and it is essential that the spread of 

the virus be slowed to protect the ability of public and private health care providers to handle the 

influx of new patients and safeguard public health and safety. Because of the risk of the rapid 

spread of the virus, and the need to protect the most vulnerable members of the community, this 

Order requires all individuals anywhere in Dallas County to shelter in place – that is, stay at home 

– except for certain essential activities and work to provide essential business and government 

services or perform essential public infrastructure construction, including housing. This Order 
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takes effect at 11:10 a.m. on April 3, 2020 and will continue through 11:59 p.m. on April 30, 2020, 

subject to the limited exceptions and under the terms and conditions more particularly set forth 

below. 

UNDER THE AUTHORITY OF TEXAS GOVERNMENT CODE

SECTION 418.108, DALLAS COUNTY JUDGE CLAY JENKINS ORDERS:

1. Effective as of 11:10 a.m. on April 3, 2020, and continuing until 11:59 p.m. on April 30, 

2020:

(a) All individuals currently living within Dallas County are ordered to shelter at 

their place of residence. For the purposes of this Order, residences include 

hotels, motels, shared rentals, and similar facilities. To the extent individuals 

are using shared or outdoor spaces, they must at all times as reasonably as 

possible maintain social distancing of at least six feet from any other person 

when they are outside their residence. All persons may leave their residences 

only for Essential Activities, or to provide or perform Essential Governmental 

Functions, or to operate Essential Businesses, all as defined in Section 2.

(b) All businesses operating within Dallas County, except Essential Businesses as 

defined in below in Section 2, are required to cease all activities at facilities 

located within the County except Minimum Basic Operations as defined in 

Section 2. For clarity, businesses may continue operations consisting 

exclusively of employees or contractors performing activities at their own 

residences (i.e. working from home). To the greatest extent possible, all 

Essential Businesses shall comply with the Social Distancing Rules attached, 

including maintaining six feet social distancing for both employees and the 

general public. 

(c) Employees of Essential Businesses, whose physical presence at the workplace 

is not essential to operations, are directed to use telecommuting to the fullest 

extent possible.

(d) All public or private gatherings of any number of people occurring outside a 

single household or living unit are prohibited, except as otherwise provided 

herein. Nothing in this Order prohibits the gathering of members of a household 

or living unit.

(e) All elective medical, surgical, and dental procedures are prohibited anywhere 

in Dallas County. Hospitals, ambulatory surgery centers, dental offices, and 

other medical facilities are directed to identify procedures that are deemed 

"elective" by assessing which procedures can be postponed or cancelled based 

on patient risk considering the emergency need for redirection of resources to 

COVID-19 response. 

2. Definitions:

a. For purposes of this Order, individuals may leave their residence only to perform 

any of the following “Essential Activities”:

i. To engage in activities or perform tasks essential to their health and safety, 

or to the health and safety of their family or household members (for 
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example, obtaining medical supplies or medication, visiting a health care 

professional, or obtaining supplies need to work from home).

ii. To obtain necessary services or supplies for themselves and their family or 

household members, or to deliver those services or supplies to others (for 

example, food, pet supply, and any other household consumer products, and 

products necessary to maintain the safety, sanitation, and essential operation 

of residences.

iii. To engage in outdoor activity, provided the individuals comply with social 

distancing requirements of six feet (for example, walking, biking, hiking, 

running, golfing, and tennis).

iv. To perform work providing essential products and services at an Essential 

Business or to otherwise carry out activities specifically permitted in this 

Order.

v. To care for a family member or pet in another household.

vi. To move to another residence either in or outside Dallas County.

vii. To engage in “Essential Travel,” which includes travel for any of the 

following purposes: (1) travel related to the provision of or access to 

Essential Activities, Essential Governmental Functions, Essential 

Businesses Essential Critical Infrastructure, and Minimum Basic Operation;

(2) travel to care for elderly, minors, dependents, persons with disabilities, 

or other vulnerable persons; (3) travel to or from educational institutions for 

purposes of receiving materials for distance learning, for receiving meals, 

and any other related services; (4) travel to return to a place of residence 

from outside the jurisdiction; (5) travel required by law enforcement or 

court order; (6) travel by church staff or clergy for the purpose of production 

of remote delivery of religious services and other ministries requiring travel;

(7) travel related to attending a funeral service; or (8) travel required for 

non-residents to return to their place of residence outside the County. 

b. For purposes of this Order, “Essential Businesses” means:

i. Essential Healthcare Operations. Healthcare Operations includes but is 

not limited to hospitals, clinics, dentists, chiropractors, physical therapy, 

optometry offices, pharmacies, pharmaceutical and biotechnology 

companies, other healthcare facilities, healthcare suppliers, mental health 

providers, substance abuse service providers, blood banks, medical 

research, laboratory services, certified doulas, or any related and/or 

ancillary healthcare services. Home-based and residential-based care for 

seniors, adults, or children are also considered healthcare operations. 

Healthcare operations also includes veterinary care and all health and 

welfare services provided to animals. This exemption shall be viewed 

broadly to avoid any impacts to the delivery of healthcare. Healthcare 

operations do not include fitness and exercise gyms, personal training, 

gymnastics studios, and similar facilities. Healthcare operations do not 

include elective medical, surgical, and dental procedures as established in 

accordance with Subsection 1(f) of this Order.
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ii. Essential Governmental Functions. All services provided by local 

governments needed to ensure the continuing operation of the government 

agencies to provide for the health, safety and welfare of the public. Each 

governmental body will determine its Essential Governmental Functions 

and identify the employees and/or contractors necessary to the performance 

of those functions. Further, nothing in this order shall prohibit any 

individual from performing or accessing “Essential Governmental

Functions.” All Essential Governmental Functions shall be performed in 

compliance with social distancing requirements of six feet, to the extent 

possible. This Order does not apply to Federal or State Government. 

iii. Essential Critical Infrastructure. All public and private facilities and 

assets, including both physical and cyber systems, and other functions and 

sectors vital to the security, governance, and public health, safety of Dallas 

County. Critical infrastructure includes, but is not limited to, utilities such 

as electricity, gas, water and wastewater, roads and highways, public 

transportation, solid waste and recycle collection and removal, oil refining, 

roads and highways, public transportation, defense and national securityrelated operations, and manufacturing operations suppling essential items 

to Essential Businesses, Essential Governmental Functions, and Critical 

Infrastructure. All manufacturers and distributors shall comply with the 

Rules for Manufacturers and Distributors set out in Exhibit C. Critical 

Infrastructure employers should implement screening precautions to protect 

employees and all activity shall be performed in compliance with social 

distancing guidelines attached. For reference, the U.S. Department of

Homeland Security in its Guidance on the Essential Critical Infrastructure 

Workforce, Version 2.0, can be found here: 

https://www.cisa.gov/publication/guidance-essential-criticalinfrastructure-workforce

iv. Stores that Sell Groceries and Other Essential Supplies. Grocery stores, 

supermarkets, warehouse stores, big-box stores, bodegas, liquor stores, 

convenience stores, and farmers’ markets that sell food products and 

household consumer products (such as cleaning and personal care 

products). This includes stores that sell groceries and also sell other nongrocery products. The sale of self-service food items is prohibited. Stores 

that sell groceries and other essential supplies shall comply with the Rules 

for Essential Retail Establishments set out in Exhibit A.

v. Restaurants. Restaurants with or without drive-in or drive-through services 

and microbreweries, micro-distilleries, or wineries may only provide take 

out, delivery, or drive-through services as allowed by law. In-person service 

is prohibited. Customers may order and pay inside, but are prohibited from 

waiting inside the restaurant for their food. All food must be brought outside 

to customers. To allow for increased access to restaurants, this Order hereby 

suspends all laws and regulations prohibiting people from walking in a 

drive-through. 
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vi. Food Cultivation. Food cultivation, including farming, fishing, and 

livestock. 

vii. Delivery of Groceries and Essential Supplies. Businesses that ship or 

deliver groceries, food, hygiene products, and essential supplies directly to 

residences or essential businesses.

viii. Transportation. Operation, maintenance, and repair of airlines, taxis, and 

other private transportation providers (such as Uber and Lyft) that provide 

transportation services necessary for the performance of essential activities 

and essential travel.

ix. Gas Stations and Businesses Needed for Transportation. Gas stations, 

auto-supply stores, auto-repair, and bicycle repair. Auto-dealerships, for inperson mechanical services or to complete an online transaction on an 

appointment basis only. Gas stations and convenience stores are prohibited 

from selling self-service food items. Gas stations and businesses needed for 

transportation shall comply with the Rules for Essential Retail 

Establishments set out in Exhibit A.

x. Critical Trades. Plumbers, electricians, exterminators, janitors, lawn care 

services, pool cleaners, maintenance and security, and other service 

providers who provide services that are necessary to maintaining the safety, 

sanitation, and essential operations of residences, Essential Businesses, 

Essential Government Functions, and Critical Infrastructure. Critical Trade 

does not include discretionary maintenance or improvements. Union 

representatives and their staff for the purpose of performing critical labor 

union functions, including the maintenance of health and welfare funds and 

checking on the well-being and safety of members.

Construction. Construction for public works, residential, commercial, and 

schools. Elective additions and maintenance are prohibited. Protecting 

construction worker from the spread of COVID19 is extremely important 

for their safety and for public health, all construction sites must follow the 

COVID-19 Safety Recommendations issued by the Construction Industry 

Safety Coalition, including, but not limited to, the Rules for Construction 

Industry set out in Exhibit B. Failure to strictly comply with this Order can 

result in penalties described below. Additionally, the general contractor and 

non-compliant subcontractor can be removed from the essential business 

list.

xi. Professional Services. Professional services, such as legal or accounting 

services, when necessary to assist in compliance with legally mandated 

activities or services necessary to avoid imminent harm to a client. Real 

estate and inspection services, but only for the purpose of title work and 

closing; in-person open houses and showings are prohibited.

xii. Financial Institutions. Banks and related depository financial institutions, 

credit unions, insurance companies, title companies, payroll and accounting 

services. Non-depository institutions (such as payday lenders) are 

prohibited. 
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xiii. Information Technology Services/Telecommunications Services. IT and 

IT services and their essential service vendors, including the provision of 

essential global, national, and local infrastructure for computing services, 

business infrastructure, communications, and web-based services, and 

critical manufacturing, as well as telecommunications services, internet 

access and broadband/communications services. 

xiv. Essential Retail. Laundromats, dry cleaners, and laundry service 

providers., hardware stores, and related facilities. Firearm and ammunition 

suppliers and retailers for purposes of safety and security. Hardware stores 

and business that sell electrical, plumbing, and other materials necessary to 

support Essential Businesses, and Essential Government Functions, and 

Critical Infrastructure. Essential retail establishments shall comply with the 

Rules for Essential Retail Establishments set out in Exhibit A.

xv. Hotels and Motels. Hotels and motels, to the extent used for lodging or 

delivery or carry-out food services. 

xvi. Providers of Basic Necessities to Economically Disadvantaged 

Populations. Businesses or organizations that provide food, shelter, and 

social services, and other necessities of life for economically disadvantaged 

or otherwise needy individuals. 

xvii. Essential Services Necessary to Maintain Essential Operations of 

Residences or Other Essential Businesses. . Businesses or services that 

supply other Essential Businesses, Essential Government Services, and 

Critical Infrastructure with the support or supplies needed to operate; 

including but not limited to mail, shipping and delivery services, 

warehouse/distribution and fulfillment, storage, moving services, janitorial 

services, laundry services, computer, audio or video electronics, sanitary 

equipment, and medical equipment.. To the extent possible, services shall 

be provided in compliance with Social Distancing Rules attached, 

including distancing of six feet and routine use of hand sanitizer.

xviii. Supplies to Work From Home. Businesses that supply products needed 

for people to work from home.

xix. Public and Private Education. Public and private educational institutions,

only for the purposes of facilitating distance learning or performing 

essential functions, provided compliance with the Social Distancing Rules

is maintained

xx. News Media. Newspapers, television, radio, and other media services.

xxi. Childcare Services. Childcare facilities providing services or community 

service providers offering childcare services under the following 

mandatory conditions:

1. Childcare services shall only be provided to employees of Essential 

Businesses;

2. Childcare must be carried out in stable groups of 12 or fewer 

(“stable” means that the same 12 or fewer children are in the same 

group each day);
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3. Children shall not change from one group to another;

4. If more than one group of children is cared for at one facility, each 

group shall be in a separate room. Groups shall not mix with each 

other;

5. Childcare providers shall remain solely with one group of children.

xxii. Animal Care Services. Animal shelters, veterinary care, and pet food and 

supply stores. Grooming, if necessary for the health and wellbeing of the 

animal. Pet daycare, but only for employees of Essential Businesses. To the 

greatest extent possible, all services must be performed in compliance with 

social distancing requirements of six feet. Pet food and supply stores shall 

comply with the Rules for Essential Retail Establishments set out in Exhibit 

A.

xxiii. Religious and Worship Services. Religious and worship services may 

only be provided by audio, video, and teleconference. Religious 

institutions must limit in-person staff to ten (10) people or less at one time, 

and twenty-five (25) people total per day, when preparing for or 

conducting video or teleconference services, and all individuals must 

follow the Social Distancing Rules including the six feet social distancing.

xxiv. Funeral Services. Funeral, mortuary, cremation, burial, cemetery, and 

related services, provided that social distancing of six feet per person is 

maintained to the greatest extent possible.

c. For purposes of this Order, Minimum Basic Operations means the following, 

provided that employees comply with the Social Distancing Rules:

i. The minimum necessary activities to maintain the value of the business's 

inventory, ensure security, process payroll and employee benefits, or for 

related functions.

ii. The minimum necessary activities to facilitate employees of the business 

being able to continue to work remotely from their residences.

3. The Dallas County Sheriff’s Office, the Dallas County Fire Marshal’s Office, and other 

peace officers, are hereby authorized to enforce this Order. A violation of this order may 

be punishable through criminal or civil enforcement. A violation of this Order is a 

misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed $1,000 and/or confinement in jail for a 

term not to exceed 180 days.

4. Any manufacturer who retools their business for the purpose of manufacturing and 

producing ventilators, masks, personal protective equipment, or any supply necessary for 

Essential Healthcare Operations may apply for an “essential business” exemption under 

this Order. Submit requests for an exemption to BusinessCOVID19@dallascounty.org. 

5. All public, private, and commercial laboratories operating within Dallas County and 

performing COVID-19 testing shall report by 5:00 p.m. each day for the prior 24-hour 

period:

a. The number of COVID-19 tests performed; and

b. The number of positive COVID-19 tests.
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Reports shall be made to Dallas County Judge Clay Jenkins at 

Clay.Jenkins@dallascounty.org and Dallas County Health and Human Services Director 

Dr. Philip Huang at Philip.Huang@dallascounty.org. Reporting laboratories shall not 

provide names or any other identifiable health information that could be used to identify 

an individual patient. 

6. Employers shall not implement any rules making a negative COVID-19 test or a note 

from a healthcare provider a requirement before a COVID-19 recovered employee can 

return to work. 

7. Under this Order, no person shall sell any of the following goods or services for more 

than the regular retail price the person charged for the goods or services on March 16, 

2020, except where an increased retail price is the result of increased supplier or other 

costs (including the loss of supplier supporting funds):

a. groceries, beverages, toilet articles, and ice;

b. restaurant, cafeteria, and boarding-house meals; and

c. medicine, pharmaceutical and medical equipment, and supplies.

8. Grocery stores, supermarkets, warehouse stores, hospitals, and medical facilities are 

experiencing high levels of demand for a large number of products, requiring more 

deliveries from manufacturers and distribution centers to serve their customers. A number 

of Texas cities and local associations have implemented restrictions on delivery hours to 

stores to mitigate truck noise and traffic. Due to the need to deliver products as quickly and 

efficiently as possible during this critical timeframe, this Order hereby suspends all 

delivery hour restrictions for transport to or from any entity involved in the selling or 

distribution of food products, medicine, or medical supplies in Dallas County for the next 

60 days.

9. Due to increased demand for bath or toilet tissue resulting from stock up buying and 

individuals who purchase for resale, a mandatory limit on toilet paper sales is instituted 

until the supply chain meets the demand or two weeks, whichever comes first. All sales of 

bath or toilet tissue occurring in Dallas County are limited to the greater of: (a) twelve (12) 

rolls per purchase or (b) one (1) package per purchase. This provision does not apply to the 

sale of bath or tissue paper to a government organization or essential business. 

10. Due to the public health emergency, the Office of the Dallas County Judge hereby 

advises the Dallas County Justices of the Peace to suspend eviction hearings and writs of 

possession for at least the next 60 days to prevent renters from being displaced. Nothing 

in the moratorium relieves tenants of liability for unpaid rent. Landlords should cap late 

fees for delayed payment of rent at fifteen dollars ($15) per month.

11. If someone in a household has tested positive for coronavirus, the household is ordered to 

isolate at home. Members of the household cannot go to work, school, or any other 

community function, except for workers included in Essential Healthcare Operations who 

may continue to work in accordance with CDC guidance.

12. Nursing homes, retirement, and long-term care facilities are instructed by this Order to 

prohibit non-essential visitors from accessing their facilities unless to provide critical 

assistance or for end-of-life visitation.
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13. Public and private schools and institutions of higher education are instructed by this Order 

to provide a safety plan to Dallas County Office of Homeland Security and Emergency 

Management 72 hours before students return to a classroom setting.

14. Additionally, the Office of the Dallas County Judge and the Health Authority instructs all 

employees to remain at home if sick. Employees of private businesses and nonprofits with 

six (6) or more employees in the City of Dallas can use their paid sick leave when they are 

sick or to care for sick family members.

15. This Order shall be in effect until 11:59 p.m. on April 3, 2020, or until it is either rescinded, 

superseded, or amended pursuant to applicable law.

16. The County of Dallas must promptly provide copies of this Order by posting on the Dallas 

County Health and Human Services website. In addition, the owner, manager, or operator 

of any facility that is likely to be impacted by this Order is strongly encouraged to post a 

copy of this Order onsite and to provide a copy to any member of the public asking for a 

copy. If any subsection, sentence, clause, phrase, or word of this Order or any application 

of it to any person, structure, gathering, or circumstance is held to be invalid or 

unconstitutional by a decision of a court of competent jurisdiction, then such decision will 

not affect the validity of the remaining portions or applications of this Order.

IT IS SO ORDERED

CLAY JENKINS

DALLAS COUNTY JUDGE
DALLAS COUNTY

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EXIBIT A

Rules for Essential Retailers

Reason for Rules. The purpose of these rules is to outline the steps that every employer and 

employee must take to reduce the risk of exposure to COVID-19. The rules describe how to prevent 

worker exposure to coronavirus and protective measures to be taken in all establishments.

Definition of Essential Retailers.

1. Stores that Sell Groceries and Other Essential Supplies. Grocery stores, supermarkets, 

warehouse stores, big-box stores, bodegas, liquor stores, convenience stores, and farmers’ 

markets that sell food products and household consumer products (such as cleaning and 

personal care products). This includes stores that sell groceries and also sell other non-grocery 

products. 

2. Gas Stations and Businesses Needed for Transportation. Gas stations, auto-supply stores, autorepair, and bicycle repair. Auto-dealerships, for in-person mechanical services or to complete 

an online transaction on an appointment basis only. 

3. Other Essential Retailers. Pet food and supply stores. Laundromats, dry cleaners, and laundry 

service providers, hardware stores, and related facilities. Firearm and ammunition suppliers 

and retailers for purposes of safety and security. Hardware stores and business that sell 

electrical, plumbing, and other materials necessary to support Essential Businesses, and 

Essential Government Functions, and Critical Infrastructure.

Safety Rules for All Essential Retailers. All employers involved in essential retail activity must 

follow the requirements set forth in the rules below: 

1. All employees must take their temperature at their residence before going to an Essential 

Retailer. If an employee has a temperature above 99.6 degrees Fahrenheit, then they are 

prohibited from going to work and must remain at their residence;

2. To the greatest extent possible and as equipment becomes available, an Essential Retailer must 

implement a system whereby supervisors must check the temperature of all employees with a 

forehead thermometer before the employee begins work. If an employee has a temperature 

above 99.6 degrees Fahrenheit, then they are not permitted to work and must be sent home 

immediately;

3. Gatherings during meals or breaks are prohibited;

4. Employees must keep a 6 foot distance between people at all times, unless the work being 

performed requires multiple individuals for the safety of the employees;

5. Employers must allow non-essential personnel to work from home when possible;

6. Employers must provide soap and water, or hand sanitizer if no soap or water is available, in 

the workplace, including all restrooms and food preparation areas. Ensure that adequate 

supplies are maintained; 
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7. Employees must wash their hands for at least twenty (20) seconds before beginning work, 

before any food preparation, before and after the use of shared items, after any meal or restroom 

breaks, and immediately prior to the end of the work shift. 

8. Rest breaks of at least fifteen (15) minutes for every four (4) hours worked must be provided 

so employees may follow hygiene guidelines;

9. There shall be no adverse action taken against an employee who has, due to possible exposure 

to coronavirus, (1) been quarantined or advised to self-quarantine; (2) have not reported to 

work because the employee has a temperature of 99.6 degrees or higher; and (3) requested to 

use paid sick leave under the employer’s policy; and

10. Employers must designate both a member of management as the COVID-19 Safety Monitor

and a senior hourly worker (that is not a member of management) as the COVID-19 Vice 

Safety Monitor at each store to have the authority to work together to enforce these rules. 

Employers in unionized workplaces should consult with the employee’s representatives on this 

designation.

General Rules for Essential Retailers. 

1. Employers shall implement an organized line system where employees, customers, and 

other persons are not less than six feet apart at all times;

2. To the greatest extent practicable, designate shopping times for at risk populations (seniors, 

pregnant people, and people with underlying health conditions);

3. To the greatest extent possible, implement a system to restrict the number of customers 

who are physically present at an Essential Retailer so that six foot spacing may be 

maintained;

4. Employers shall implement purchase limits on high-demand items (toilet paper, soap, hand 

sanitizer). These purchase limits do not apply to a government organization or essential 

business; 

5. To the greatest extent possible, employers shall offer pick up services or delivery services 

of grocery items and other essential supplies; and

6. Self-service food stations are prohibited. Self-service stations are defined as items that 

customers use common serving utensils to serve themselves, including but not limited to, 

salad bars, hot dog stands, self-service bulk food items, and other related food items. This 

section does not apply to self-checkout stations, so long as the checkout stations are cleaned 

at least every 30 minutes. 

Enforcement. A violation of this Order is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed 

$1,000 and/or confinement in jail for a term not to exceed 180 days. Additionally, any essential 

retailer who fails to strictly comply with these rules can be removed from the essential business 

list and prohibited from operating in Dallas County.
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EXHIBIT B

Rules for the Construction Industry

Reason for Construction Rules. The purpose of these rules is to outline the steps that every 

employer and employee must take to reduce the risk of exposure to COVID-19. The rules 

describe how to prevent worker exposure to coronavirus, protective measures to be taken on the 

jobsite, and cleaning and disinfecting procedures.

Construction as Critical Infrastructure. The Order classified construction for public works, 

residential, commercial, and schools as critical infrastructure. Elective additions and 

maintenance are prohibited.

Requirements for Construction. All employers involved in construction activity must follow 

the requirements set forth in the COVID-19 Safety Recommendations issued by the Construction 

Industry Safety Coalition, including the rules below: 

1. All workers and contractors (hereafter referred to as “workers”) must take their temperature 

at their residence. If a worker has a temperature above 99.6 degrees Fahrenheit, then they 

are prohibited from going to work and must remain at their residence;

2. To the greatest extent possible, implement a system whereby supervisors must check the 

temperature of all workers and contractors with a forehead thermometer before the worker 

begins work. If n worker or contractor has a temperature above 99.6 degrees Fahrenheit, 

then they are to be sent home immediately;

3. To the greatest extent possible, shift work must be implemented such that each shift shall 

have no more than fifty percent (50%) of the workers who were on shift on March 16, 

2020. Once assigned to a shift, workers shall not change from one shift to another;

4. To the greatest extent possible, limit crossover of subcontractors;

5. Gatherings during meals or breaks are prohibited;

6. Workers must keep a 6 foot distance between people at all times, unless the work being 

performed requires multiple individuals for the safety of the workers;

7. Workers must not use a common water cooler. Employers shall provide individual water 

bottles or instruct workers to bring their own;

8. Employers must allow non-essential personnel to work from home when possible;

9. Employers must provide soap and water and hand sanitizer in the workplace, including all 

restrooms. Ensure that adequate supplies are maintained; 

10. If running water is available at the site, workers must wash their hands for at least twenty 

(20) seconds before beginning work, when they remove gloves, and before and after the 

use of shared items such as tools or multi-user devices, before and after any meal or 

restroom breaks, and when their shift or work time ends. 

11. Rest breaks of at least fifteen (15) minutes for every four (4) hours worked must be 

provided so workers may follow hygiene guidelines;

12. Employers must provide one (1) working flushing toilet for every fifteen (15) workers on 

site or one (1) outdoor portable toilet for every 10 workers on site; 

13. There shall be no adverse action taken against a worker who has, due to possible 

exposure to coronavirus, (1) been quarantined or advised to self-quarantine; (2) have not 
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reported to work because the worker has a temperature of 99.6 degrees or higher; and (3) 

requested to use paid sick leave under the employer’s policy; and

14. Employers must designate a COVID-19 safety monitor on each site who has the authority 

to enforce these rules; 

Enforcement. A violation of this Order is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed 

$1,000 and/or confinement in jail for a term not to exceed 180 days. Additionally, any general 

contractor or subcontractor who fails to strictly comply with these rules can be removed from the 

essential business list and prohibited from operating in Dallas County.
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EXHIBIT C

Rules for Manufacturers and Distributors

Reason for Rules. The purpose of these rules is to outline the steps that every employer and 

employee must take to reduce the risk of exposure to COVID-19. The rules describe how to prevent 

worker exposure to coronavirus, protective measures to be taken on the jobsite, and cleaning and 

disinfecting procedures.

Definition of Critical Manufacturers and Distributors. This Order defines Critical 

Manufacturing and Distribution as the industries listed in the U.S. Department of Homeland 

Security in its Guidance on the Essential Critical Infrastructure Workforce, Version 2.0.

Rules for Manufacturers and Distributors. All employers involved in critical manufacturing 

and distribution activity must follow the requirements set forth in the rules below: 

1. All employees must take their temperature at their residence before going to work at a 

manufacturing or distribution center. If a worker has a temperature above 99.6 degrees 

Fahrenheit, then they are prohibited from going to work and must remain at their residence;

2. To the greatest extent possible and as equipment becomes available, employers must 

implement a system whereby supervisors check the temperature of all employees before the 

employee begins work. If an employee has a temperature above 99.6 degrees Fahrenheit, then 

they are not permitted to work and must be sent home immediately;

3. Gatherings during meals or breaks are prohibited;

4. Employees must keep a six (6) foot distance between people at all times, unless the work being 

performed requires multiple individuals for the safety of the employees;

5. To the extent practicable, employers shall adjust shift timing to allow for greater physical 

distance between employees;

6. Employers must allow non-essential personnel to work from home when possible;

7. Employers must provide soap and water, or hand sanitizer if no soap or water is available, in 

the workplace, including all restrooms. Employers shall ensure that adequate supplies of soap 

and hand sanitizer are maintained; 

8. Employees must wash their hands for at least twenty (20) seconds before beginning work, 

before any food preparation, before and after the use of shared items, after any meal or restroom 

breaks, and immediately prior to departing the work site. 

9. Employers shall discourage employees from sharing work tools when possible.

10. Rest breaks of at least fifteen (15) minutes for every four (4) hours worked must be provided 

so employees may follow hygiene guidelines;

11. There shall be no adverse action taken against an employee who has, due to possible exposure 

to coronavirus, (1) been quarantined or advised to self-quarantine; (2) have not reported to 

work because the worker has a temperature of 99.6 degrees or higher; and (3) requested to use 

paid sick leave under the employer’s policy; and

12. Employers must designate both a member of management as the COVID-19 Safety Monitor 

and a senior hourly employee (that is not a member of management), or a non-management 
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employee if an hourly employee is not available, as the COVID-19 Vice Safety Monitor at 

each site to have the authority to work together to enforce these rules. Employers in unionized 

workplaces should consult with the employee’s representatives on this designation.

Enforcement. A violation of this Order is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed 

$1,000 and/or confinement in jail for a term not to exceed 180 days. Additionally, any 

manufacturer and distributor who fails to strictly comply with these rules can be removed from 

the essential business list and prohibited from operating in Dallas County.
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DCHHS Social Distancing Rules

1) Vulnerable Populations: Limit Outings

 Vulnerable populations include people who are:

o 60 years old and older.

o People with certain health conditions such as heart disease, lung disease, diabetes, 

kidney disease and weakened immune systems.

 For vulnerable populations, don’t go to gatherings unless it is essential. Stay home. Avoid 

people who are sick.

2) Workplace and Businesses: Minimize Exposure

 Suspend nonessential employee travel.

 Ensure employees practice social distancing and do not work within six feet of one 

another.

 Urge essential employees to stay home when they are sick and maximize flexibility in 

sick leave benefits.

 Do not require a doctor’s note for employees who are sick.

 Maximize telecommuting options.

 Persons who need to be at work to provide essential services of great benefit to the 

community must take steps in their workplace to minimize risk.

3) Cancel Non-essential Events

 Cancel non-essential events.

 Do not attend any events or gatherings if sick.

 For events that aren’t cancelled, we recommend:

o Having hand washing capabilities, hand sanitizers and tissues available.

o Frequently cleaning high touch surface areas like counter tops and hand rails.

o Finding ways to implement social distancing..

4) Schools: Safety First

 Do not have your child attend school if sick.

 If you have a child with chronic health conditions, consult the child’s doctor about school 

attendance.

 Schools should equip all classrooms with hand sanitizers and tissues.

 Recommend rescheduling or cancelling events that are not essential.

 Explore remote teaching and online options to continue learning.

 Schools should develop a plan for citywide school closures, and families should prepare 

for further closures.

5) Transit: Cleaning and Protection

 Increase cleaning of vehicles and high touch surface areas.

 Provide hand washing/hand sanitizers and tissues in stations and on vehicles.

 Ensure social distancing practices are implemented to the full extent possible.
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6) Health Care Settings: Avoid as possible, protect the vulnerable

 Long-term care facilities should have a COVID-19 plan in accordance with CDC or state 

guidelines.

 Long-term care facilities should restrict all visitation except for certain compassionate 

care situations, such as end of life situations.

 The general public should avoid going to medical settings such as hospitals, nursing 

homes and long-term care facilities, even if you are not ill.

 If you are ill, call your health care provider ahead of time, and you may be able to be 

served by phone.

 Do not visit emergency rooms unless it is essential.

 Follow guidance and directions of all facilities.

7) Everyone: Do your part

The best way for all Dallas County residents to reduce their risk of getting sick, as with seasonal 

colds or the flu, still applies to prevent COVID-19:

 Wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.

 Cough or sneeze into your elbow or a tissue. Throw the tissue in the trash. 

 Stay home if you are sick.

 Avoid touching your face.

 Try alternatives to shaking hands, like an elbow bump or wave.

 If you have recently returned from a country, state or region with ongoing COVID-19 

infections, monitor your health and follow the instructions of public health officials and 

CDC guidance. 

 There is no recommendation to wear masks at this time to prevent yourself from getting 

sick.

You can also prepare for the disruption caused by an outbreak. Preparedness actions include:

 Prepare to work from home if that is possible for your job, and your employer.

 Make sure you have a supply of all essential medications for your family.

 Prepare a child care plan if you or a caregiver are sick.

 Make arrangements about how your family will manage school closures.

 Plan for how you can care for a sick family member without getting sick yourself.

 Take care of each other and check in by phone with friends, family and neighbors that are 

vulnerable to serious illness or death if they get COVID-19.

 Keep common spaces clean to help maintain a healthy environment for you and others. 

Frequently touched surfaces should be cleaned regularly with disinfecting sprays, wipes 

or common household cleaning products.