RI Issues COVID-19 Protocols For Marinas

The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (RIDOH) has provided guidance to marinas, boatyards and yacht clubs to clarify the protocols that must be in place in order to allow patrons access to their vessels during the COVID-19 crisis. The general guidelines are as follows:

All marinas and boatyards must prepare and implement a COVID-19 Control Plan in accordance with the RIDOH emergency regulations, which can be found here. The state prepared a guidance document to assist businesses in meeting the requirements outlined in these RIDOH regulations.

Marinas and boatyards must comply with RIDOH regulations and active executive orders.

• Security: Marinas, boatyards and yacht clubs should remain secure so that admittance can be monitored by owners/operators.
• Screening:All employees and patrons should be screened prior to entry to the facility for any symptoms of COVID-19. A screening tool is available, in English and Spanish, to aid with proper screening at https://health.ri.gov/covid/for/business/.
• Physical distancing:Patrons and staff, whenever possible, should maintain six feet of physical distance between themselves and others who are not part of their household, in accordance with current RIDOH and com guidance.
• Group Size: Group size should be limited in accordance with the most current executive orders. Patrons should not congregate on the docks, parking lots, common areas or near other customer boats on land. Customers should go from vehicle directly to boat and back.
• Face Covering: All persons (employees, patrons or visitors) are required to wear face coverings when in areas where congregating is common in accordance with RIDOH regulations and Executive Order 20-30 or when unable to easily, continuously and measurably maintain at least six feet of distance from others. Face coverings are not required in outdoor settings for people who can easily and continuously maintain at least six feet of distance from other people. Signs are available at https://commerceri.com/masks/
• Cleaning Procedures: A cleaning schedule must be implemented addressing the frequent cleaning of high touch areas or equipment and regular cleaning in accordance with RIDOH regulations and CDC guidelines. Signage must be provided to alert users of last official cleaning and encourage users to clean surfaces before and after use.
• Hand cleaning: All persons must have access to soap and water and/or hand sanitizer containing at least 60 percent alcohol at all times.
• Food & Beverage Sales: All food and beverage sales should follow the most recent executive orders, regulations, and/or guidance related to restaurants.
• Retail Sales: All retail sales should follow the most recent executive orders, regulations, and/or guidance related to retail stores.
• Communication: Signage regarding physical distancing, the use of face coverings, and other COVID-19 guidance should be posted advising employees and patrons of the same including postings on boat ramps.