Download a printable PDF version of this guidance.
The PA Department of Agriculture has developed the following guidance and recommendations for farms to limit exposure and risk related to COVID-19 (novel coronavirus). As always, it is critical to practice biosecurity for the safety of animals and the public. It is now critical to also consider ways to limit person-to-person contact and congregate in settings of no more than 10 people while maintaining social distance.
In addition to adhering to the following guidance, businesses should also follow the department's guidance for Sanitization and Diagnosed Employees and Secretary Levine's Worker Safety Order. The Department of Health has prepared answers to Frequently Asked Questions for the Worker Safety Order. Employees at all places of business, and customers who patronize these businesses, should wear a mask.
It is recommended that all farms have Continuity of Business (COB) plans, to keep operations running smoothly in case of any disruption. PDA recommends all farms review and update or write a continuity of business plan in case of disruption due to COVID-19. COB plans are critical for all operations, however small farms may be at greater risk if a disruption occurs because the owner may be the sole caretaker.
It is important to have written documentation of your business operations in case of illness, so that another family member or neighbor can assist if you need to be isolated or treated due to COVID-19. Regardless of operation size, production practices, or type of operations, PDA strongly encourages all farms to develop COB plans in case of illness or injury and communicate the plan to family or another person who can step in, just as you would a will and associated directives.
Crop-based COB based on enterprise
Animal based COB based on enterprise
Please recall that COB plans for illness of animals on the farm should be referred to the Secured Food Supply program outline and incident action plan for the state.
On-Farm Delivery guidance should be followed by all essential businesses that provide deliveries throughout the supply chain.
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