SAUGUS — Following Gov. Charlie Baker’s orders, the Saugus Board of Health has announced additional precautions to help mitigate the spread of COVID-19.
As of Saturday, all employees and residents are required to wear a face mask when entering an essential business, restaurant, or drive-thru, and all employees, including delivery personnel, are required to wear gloves. Essential businesses have also been asked to post signage at public and employee entrances requiring facial coverings and social and physical distancing of six feet from one another.
Gov. Baker’s state-wide mandate will officially begin May 6, but enforcement has been left up to individual municipalities. Saugus residents found not in compliance with the state’s orders may be fined up to $1,000 — much higher than Gov. Baker’s recommended $300.
“These declarations of a State of Emergency in Saugus and approved orders will help the Town to continue to take the necessary measures and to secure the necessary resources to continue to protect the health, safety, and security of the residents and employees of the community,” said Town Manager Scott Crabtree.
Town officials will spend the coming weeks visiting, educating, and assisting establishments with implementing the new orders.
The emergency order will remain in effect until the Public Health Emergency declaration by the Board of Health has been lifted.
“These important orders will ensure that the necessary protective health steps are taken and that emergency resources are available to continue to assist the public during this uncertain time,” a statement from the Town read. “In addition, it will ensure that the community is able to apply or be eligible for additional resources and funding now or that may become available in the future through the Commonwealth or federal government.”
