New York State Defines Essential Businesses 

Washington, D.C. (March 20, 2020) – The International Door Association (IDA) has reviewed Governor Cuomo’s Executive Orders 202.6 and 202.7 on workforce reduction in response to the COVID-19 Pandemic, and guidance from New York State regarding businesses designated as essential. The review focused on how the designation of essential services businesses relates to the workforce reduction policy enacted by the Executive Order.

The Governor has directed all businesses in New York State to initiate whatever telecommuting or work from home options that can be safely implemented. Additionally, the governor instituted workforce reductions by 75% from a pre-state of emergency declaration employment levels. Businesses included in the listing of essential businesses or entities are exempt from the workforce reduction, but are directed to comply with guidance from the New York State Department of Health for maintaining a clean and safe working environment, including maintaining appropriate social distancing guidelines.

The guidance from New York State on Executive Order 202.6, which also applies to EO 202.7, defines the following activities and occupations as part of “essential business”:

• Skilled construction trades such as electricians, plumbers, and other related construction firms and professionals for essential infrastructure or for emergency repair and safety purposes
• Essential services necessary to maintain the safety, sanitation and essential operations of residences or other essential businesses including security and general maintenance

IDA members provide a wide range of products and services which fall under the guidance from New York State. “It is important that access systems and security operations of buildings, homes, and facilities in New York State and elsewhere be properly maintained and kept fully operational, said IDA Executive Director, Mike Fischer, adding “service, repairs, and replacements of garage doors, electric openers, gates, gate openers, and other access systems and their components are critical to ensure that necessary movement of people and vehicles is not compromised.”

IDA President, Kevin Pettiette applauded Governor Cuomo’s action. “New York State understands the need to keep essential services fully operational, and understands the role that private businesses play in helping ensure safe and secure buildings housing our residents and essential services.”

IDA will continue to provide updates on essential businesses more information comes available.