Weekly COVID-19 Update: Guidance for a Safer Thanksgiving and Winterizing Outdoor Public Spaces

The ANSI Federation and standardization community are stepping up with guidance, resources, and initiatives to support public health, safety, and infrastructure during the COVID-19 outbreak. Suggestions for news items may be submitted to [email protected]. All submissions are published at ANSI's discretion.

CDC Issues Guidance for a Safe Thanksgiving Holiday

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has just released guidance in light of the Thanksgiving holiday, as COVID-19 cases surge throughout the United States.

"Traditional Thanksgiving gatherings with family and friends are fun but can increase the chances of getting or spreading COVID-19 or the flu," the CDC reports. "The safest way to celebrate Thanksgiving this year is to celebrate with people in your household."

For those who are intent on a group gathering, the CDC has released safety guidelines, advising:

• Bring your own food, drinks, plates, cups, and utensils
• Wear a mask, and safely store your mask while eating and drinking
• Avoid going in and out of the areas where food is being prepared or handled, such as in the kitchen
• Use single-use options, like salad dressing and condiment packets, and disposable items like food containers, plates, and utensils

Visit the CDC website for additional guidelines and information for a safe Thanksgiving holiday.

ICC Offers Guidelines for Winterizing Outdoor Public Spaces

The International Code Council (ICC) has published guidelines for business owners and designers looking to add outdoor seating in light of COVID-19 considerations.

“Considerations for Converting Outdoor Spaces into Temporary Seating Spaces” highlights key considerations when creating these spaces, which must comply with building and safety standards. Permits, fire safety, adequate plumbing, accessible routes, and other factors are also highlighted in the document.

“Throughout the pandemic, outdoor spaces have played a large role in sustaining our economy, especially as many businesses have had to reduce capacity for their indoor locations, and simply because the weather is turning colder does not mean this should stop,” said Stephen Jones, senior regional manager, government relations, for ICC. “However, structures need to continue to be safe and structurally sound, which is where this guide comes into play.”

See the ICC news item to learn more and access the guide.

See more ANSI member efforts in the ANSI COVID-19 Resource Webpage Highlighting Standardization Community Response.