As we continue to share pertinent information and periodic updates on the Covid-19 outbreak, please feel free to reach out to me personally if you have any questions, comments or need direction concerning a specific issue. My cell is as follows: Julie (714) 889-9472.
Update as of March 19, 2020:
Jobsite / Labor Update:
Most jobs are operating business as usual. However, we have received notice of a few temporary shutdowns as a result of a presumed positive. These sites have been shut down for cleaning and then reopened.
We have also been notified that some GC’s intend to shut down certain jobsites. If you are aware of a shutdown, please reach out to me.
Many of you have asked questions about the workforce performing duties remotely (i.e. detailing) in the wake of the Covid-19 outbreak. Most companies that I have spoken with are making business decisions based on the best interest of the employees and company. Please do not hesitate to call me at (714) 889-9472 for further information.
Shelter in Place:
We continue to hear rumors about a possible order re: “Puget Sound Region Shelter in Place” and/or a “Seattle Shelter In Place”. SMACNA, Kathleen and other trade associations are working with our Labor Partners to lobby for a construction exemption for any such Order. However, we have not been able to confirm these rumors to date.
If a Shelter in Place is ordered, it is likely that restrictions will be placed on the type of work that can be performed. This order could require all persons in these impacted counties to stay home except for essential needs. Police, fire departments, hospitals, grocery stores, gas stations, banks, pharmacies and restaurants serving takeout and delivery will all be allowed to remain open under the shelter in place order.
If such an order is issued, it will be important for employers to determine what is essential/non-essential work based upon the wording of any such ordinance.
Employees would be able to sign up for Unemployment Benefits immediately. The governor has already waived the 1 week wait.
Yesterday, we sent out numerous emails outlining different Federal and State relief measures. It is important to have your game plan ready to go in case there is a total shutdown.
You can find those resources here:
https://www.sba.gov/funding-programs/disaster-assistance
https://www.governor.wa.gov/issues/issues/covid-19-resources/covid-19-resources-businesses-and-workers
Apprentices:
Rotations will now be cancelled until further notice.
Class has been postponed until April 6th.
The JATC will start using online classes for both service and TAB on April 6th.
JATC will resume classroom training for all apprenticeships on April 27th.
SMART Heroes has also been cancelled and will regroup after April 6th.
Drug Testing:
We have temporarily halted random drug testing through May 31, 2020. Post-accident and reasonable cause testing are still permitted. You will be receiving more information concerning same from Drug Free Business (Third Party Administrator) shortly.
Contract Administration:
Employer Trust Fund payments are expected to be made in a timely fashion including payments through the employer contribution reporting website for all current employees who are working.
COVID-19 FAQs for Employers:
A list of resources we have shared with you already can be found here:
https://esd.wa.gov/newsroom/covid-19
International Foundation of Employee Benefits Plan has valuable information found here.
Due to the fluid nature of the unprecedented situation, we will do our best to provide updated information as needed. Once again, thank you for your patience and understanding during this challenging time and please feel free to reach out to me personally if you have any questions, comments or need direction concerning a specific issue. My cell is as follows: Julie (714) 889-9472.
Julie Muller, Esq.
Executive Vice President
SMACNA - Western Washington