2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Environmental Health Services during COVID-19

Program Information and Operations Guidance
 Main EH homepage

Children’s Camps, Food Program, Cleaning & Disinfecting, Mass Gatherings, OWTS, Rabies, Swimming, Water

EH Administration

Update 3/26/20:

Due to the COVID-19 State of Emergency, certain non-essential services provided by the Tompkins County Health Department will be suspended. In general, permits for new operations are not being issued. Permit renewals for existing facilities and for failed onsite wastewater treatment systems are still being processed.

Children's Camps

Updated 4/28/20

We encourage you to please continue to submit your applications as in previous years if you think you might operate. Changes to permit applications for 2020 camps will be conveyed as we receive guidance. Please contact our office if you have questions; call 607-274-6688 or email.

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Food Program:

Updated 4/28/20

• Restaurants and other food services are deemed essential during the COVID-19 emergency. Food can only be provided as take-out and delivery. No food or drink may be consumed on the premises.
• All seating areas in restaurants and hotels are to be closed for the duration of the emergency. Food trucks should avoid setting up next to picnic tables to reduce formation of groups.
• Delivery services should avoid entering a home and maintain social distances.

The NYS Ag and Markets COVID page is updated regularly.
  

Cleaning and Disinfecting

As part of standard infection control practices, routine cleaning should be rigorous and ongoing. Time should be allocated daily for individuals to routinely clean. Frequently  touched  surfaces must be prioritized for routine cleaning because these surfaces can be reservoirs for germs and an exposure pathway for transmission of COVID- 19.

Cleaning and Disinfection:

• Cleaning removes germs, dirt and impurities from surfaces or objects. Disinfecting kills germs on surfaces or objects.
• Individuals should use protective equipment (e.g. gloves) as recommended on product labels. Carefully read and follow all label instructions for safe and effective use.
• Open NYS DOH and AgM guidance for important details. Click here for these and other Resources.

High-risk priority areas for cleaning and disinfecting:

• High contact surfaces that are touched by many different people, such as light switches, handrails, cart handles, equipment buttons, shared equipment, point of sale devices, and door knobs & handles.
• Floors and walls.
• Trash containers.
• Restrooms.
• Break rooms and dining areas.
• Lockers and locker rooms.
• First aid station or health office
• Heat and air conditioner vents.
• Horizontal surfaces and light fixtures.
• Frequently used equipment.
• Uniform, protective equipment, and/or linens.

Frequently touched surfaces:

• Shared equipment.
• Counters, tables and chairs.
• Door handles and push plates.
• Handrails.
• Kitchen and bathroom faucets.
• Equipment surfaces.
• Equipment buttons.
• Light switches.
• Remote controls.
• Shared telephones.
• Shared computers, keyboards and mice.
• Shared electronics and phones.

Resources:

• Guidance issued by the NYS Departments of Health and of Ag & Markets
• Fact sheets from Tompkins County Environmental Health
  • Guidelines for Food Service Operators and Staff 
  • Make your own disinfecting wipes 
  • Wiping Cloths and Chemical Sanitizing in Food Service

IMPORTANT: If a laboratory confirmed case of COVID-19 works in your facility or was known to be present in your facility, promptly notify Environmental Health (607-274-6688 anytime) for instructions on how to proceed.

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Mass Gatherings

The maximum number allowded at a gathering depends on what phase the region is in. Please click here for the up-to-date information.

Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems (OWTS):

Updated 3/26/20

• *Effective immediately, applications for Onsite Wastewater Treatment System (OWTS) Construction Permits for new construction or conversions will not be processed until further notice.
• The Department will continue to process applications and issue permits for replacement OWTS when sewage systems are in failure.
• The Department will also continue to provide inspections for OWTS of any type constructed under existing permits, however, greater than average delays should be expected when scheduling inspections. 

Lastly, through the duration of the State of Emergency, in an effort to maximize social distancing, the Department is encouraging the submittal of applications through our online service (https://permits.tompkins-co.org/CitizenAccess/Default.aspx) or by mail (downloads found at https://tompkinscountyny.gov/health/eh/owts/index).*

Rabies Control

AVMA Guidelines for essential veterinary services during the COVID-19 emergency

2020 Rabies Clinics for Pets:
Due to the fluid nature of “stay at home” orders, the Tompkins County Spring rabies clinics may be cancelled or postponed. In the event of a postponement or cancellation, we will notify pre-registrations of the change in schedule. Please continue to check this page for updates.”

Swimming Facilities

Updated 3/26/20

During the current COVID-19 emergency, all gyms, fitness centers, and water parks must be closed.

Changes to lifeguard certification and opening of pools with be updated as we receive guidance. Please continue to check this page for updated information for COVID-19 and preparing to open pools for the summer season.

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