Office Break Rooms Must Close For 90 Days: Coronavirus In RI

PROVIDENCE, RI — As Rhode Island grapples with a spike in coronavirus cases and hospitalizations, state leaders are taking steps to help slow the spread of the virus in more casual settings, including offices. Starting Thursday, break rooms must be closed for the next 90 days, Gov. Gina Raimondo announced.

"I'm asking you to find alternative, safe ways for employees to take a break," the governor said to Rhode Island business owners. More information is available on the Reopening RI website.

The Rhode Island Department of Health said small, casual gatherings are the most likely culprit for the latest increase, which includes in communal areas such as break rooms. When people, even a few at a time, gather to chat, eat lunch or maker a cup of coffee without social distancing or mask-wearing, virus transmission can easily occur, especially if there are no windows to allow for airflow.

The governor said the closure "is not meant to be punitive," and that alternatives are available for facilities that cannot close their break rooms for contract or union reasons, such as creating a sign-up sheet to avoid crowding.

While break rooms are closed, it's important for employers to find alternative ways for employees to step away and take a break, Raimondo said, such as creating an outdoor space or tent or encouraging employees to take a walk.

Along with closing break rooms, the governor reiterated the importance of wearing a mask at all times when in the office, even with close coworkers.

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