Small-business owners who reopen their doors following coronavirus-related shutdowns face many uncertainties.

Will their customers come back? Will their employees come back? Can they even stay in business?

But the most pressing uncertainty is probably safety. How can owners and operators of small businesses keep everyone safe?

We've learned that one of the best ways to keep people safe from the coronavirus is to keep them separated by at least six feet, for instance. While it may not be hard for people to maintain those separations when they are out in public, will it be harder to do that over the course of eight or more hours within the confines of a workplace?

Make Thorough Plans Now

A good first step in mapping out a return to work in the age of COVID-19 is to develop a comprehensive safety plan that can be articulated to every employee. Most employers are (or should be) aware of federal  workplace safety regulations  of the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA). But in recent weeks and months, states and localities have issued new regulations geared specifically to the coronavirus, and small-business owners and managers should know what they are.

With those laws and guidelines in mind, owners and manager should consider plans that address a number of issues, including the following:

  • How will employees' health be monitored?
  • How is social distancing between employees to be maintained? Will physical barriers be required?
  • What procedures can you implement to reduce the spread of coronavirus through cleaning and sanitizing?
  • What kind of messaging will you use to inform employees of washing hands, proper face mask use, etc.?
  • What sanctions or penalties will you have for employees who don't follow the rules?
  • What will you do if somebody gets sick?

Advice From OSHA

Other good suggestions come from the U.S. Labor Department, which has issued an industry-by-industry  series of recommendations for small businesses  that can be a useful guide when planning to reopen doors.

Here a few of them:

  • Increase ventilation and install high-efficiency air filters.
  • If possible, stagger shifts or alternate work days to reduce the number of workers in the facility at one time.
  • Replace doorknobs with hooks that can be opened by using forearms.
  • Discourage workers from using others' tools and equipment.
  • Train workers in how to put on, wear, and remove protective clothing and equipment.

Being an entrepreneur and operating a small business is always a challenge, but perhaps now more ever. It's important to pay close attention to the steps that are needed to make this transition as safe as possible for everyone.

Related Resources:

By 7074279023 August 9, 2025
Merging, Buying or Selling a Business? Peak Law reviews and renegotiates vendor and supplier contracts during merger and acquisition transactions to maintain operational continuity. They ensure all contractual obligations are transferred or updated appropriately. Peak Law helps businesses retain strong partnerships during the merger and acquisition process.
By 7074279023 August 8, 2025
Merging, Buying or Selling a Business? Peak Law supports succession planning in merger and acquisition transactions to ensure continuity in leadership and vision. They assist in structuring agreements that address leadership transition and protect shareholder interests. With Peak Law, merger and acquisition strategies are designed with the future in mind.
By 7074279023 August 7, 2025
Merging, Buying or Selling a Business? Peak Law creates custom legal frameworks for each merger and acquisition to match your company’s structure and future plans. They don’t apply generic templates; instead, they build agreements and procedures that reflect your unique needs. This personalized approach ensures every Peak Law merger and acquisition is legally sound and strategically aligned.
corporate law
August 7, 2025
In the complex world of corporate law, misconceptions abound. These myths can often lead to confusion and misinformed decisions. In this article, we'll debunk common myths and set the record straight, providing clarity on various aspects of corporate law. Myth 1: Corporate Law Only Involves Big Businesses Understanding the scope of corporate law Corporate law is widely misconceived as solely the domain of large corporations. In reality, it is a legal specialty that applies to entities of all sizes. From giant multinational corporations to small local businesses, corporate law governs a wide range of business activities. Legal structures such as limited liability companies (LLCs), partnerships, and sole proprietorships all require attention to corporate law. Understanding its scope helps demystify the notion that only big businesses need concern themselves with legal intricacies. The role of corporate law in small and medium enterprises (SMEs) Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) form the backbone of many economies, and corporate law plays a pivotal role in their functioning. SMEs must navigate issues like employment law, contracts, and consumer protection, all underpinned by corporate legislation. Contrary to popular belief, corporate law offers structures and protections that are essential for SME sustainability and growth. Legal frameworks designed to protect smaller businesses ensure fair practices and competition. Effective legal guidance can make the difference between thriving and failing in competitive markets. Legal implications for start-ups Start-ups, characterized by rapid growth and innovation, also fall under the umbrella of corporate law. Early-stage companies need to address everything from incorporation to intellectual property protection. Engaging with corporate law early on provides startups with solid legal foundations, increasing investor confidence and long-term viability. Many start-ups fail to recognize the importance of corporate lawyers until faced with a legal dispute or compliance issue. Start-ups must integrate corporate legal insight into their strategic planning from day one. Case studies of small businesses affected by corporate law Case studies reveal the practical implications of corporate law on small businesses. For instance, a small bakery that was able to expand by effectively navigating contractual agreements with suppliers. Another example is a boutique tech startup that secured venture capital funding due to its well-structured shareholder agreements and understanding of equity laws. These cases highlight the versatile applications of corporate law beyond the realms of large corporations. By examining such scenarios, it becomes evident that corporate law impacts business dynamics at every level. The importance of corporate legal guidance for all enterprise sizes Legal guidance is critical for enterprises of all sizes to avoid potential pitfalls. Experienced corporate lawyers provide expertise that safeguards businesses, ensures compliance, and supports strategic decision-making. According to GoRemotely, only 14.4% of all US lawyers are certified members of the ABA, emphasizing the value of specialized legal counsel. Businesses, regardless of size, benefit significantly from corporate lawyers who can anticipate and mitigate risks. The importance of this guidance continues to rise as businesses navigate increasingly complex regulatory environments. Myth 2: Corporate Lawyers Are Only Needed in Legal Disputes Beyond litigation: advisory and compliance roles Corporate lawyers do much more than handle litigation; they are vital advisors in numerous contexts. They play a crucial role in ensuring compliance with laws and regulations, thus preventing legal issues from arising. Rather than simply reacting to legal conflicts, corporate lawyers provide proactive counsel that helps businesses operate smoothly. From ensuring accurate financial disclosures to guiding ethical decision-making, their expertise extends far beyond the courtroom. Failing to utilize a corporate lawyer's advisory skills can result in missed opportunities and increased vulnerability to unforeseen challenges. Corporate lawyers in mergers and acquisitions In the fast-paced world of mergers and acquisitions (M&A), corporate lawyers are indispensable. They perform due diligence, draft purchase agreements, and negotiate intricate terms between parties. Their involvement ensures transactions are legally sound and aligned with business strategies. By facilitating seamless integrations and managing legal risks, they contribute to the success of M&A activities. Without their intervention, companies could face legal pitfalls that jeopardize deals or result in costly litigation. Prevention is better than cure: proactive legal strategies The adage "prevention is better than cure" is particularly relevant in the realm of corporate law. Proactive legal strategies help businesses identify potential risks before they manifest into legal challenges. Corporate lawyers craft risk management frameworks that mitigate exposures and enhance compliance. By addressing issues early, companies can avoid costly disputes and protect their reputation. Adopting a preventive approach in corporate law not only saves money but also fosters a robust organizational culture. Contract review and negotiations Contracts form the backbone of business operations, and corporate lawyers excel in their review and negotiation. They ensure agreements align with business objectives while safeguarding against vulnerabilities. A legal expert's ability to identify critical clauses and mitigate risks is invaluable for negotiation success. Contractual disputes can often be traced back to vague or conflicting terms, underscoring the need for meticulous legal scrutiny. By engaging a corporate lawyer in this capacity, businesses guard against unfavourable legal outcomes. Corporate governance and regulatory compliance Corporate governance and regulatory compliance are key areas where corporate lawyers provide essential support. Ensuring adherence to ever-evolving laws and standards can be daunting for businesses. Legal experts help craft governance frameworks that empower companies to fulfill their duties and uphold transparency. By addressing compliance proactively, companies foster stakeholder trust and mitigate legal repercussions. Corporate lawyers serve as valuable guides in navigating the intricate web of governance and compliance obligations. Myth 3: Corporate Law Stifles Business Innovation Balancing legal frameworks with innovation Contrary to the belief that corporate law suppresses innovation, it acts as a safeguard for creative endeavors. Legal frameworks provide a balanced environment where new ideas can flourish while establishing clear norms and protections. Companies that understand the synergy between innovation and the legal landscape are better positioned to succeed. Rather than stifling creativity, corporate law encourages a structured approach to innovation. This balance enables businesses to pursue groundbreaking projects with confidence. Intellectual property protection as a catalyst Intellectual property protection is a central element where corporate law boosts innovation. By securing patents, trademarks, and copyright, companies can protect their innovations from unauthorized exploitation. Legal safeguards incentivize investment in research and development, as they assure businesses of exclusive rights to their creations. The absence of such protections would deter innovation, as firms face the risk of others capitalizing on their efforts. Corporate law, by defending intellectual property, catalyzes progress and creative advancements. Legal structures that promote innovation Corporate law offers a range of legal structures designed to foster innovation and growth. For instance, flexible business entities such as limited liability companies (LLCs) provide entrepreneurs with agility and protection. These structures shield personal assets while enabling risk-taking and experimentation. By understanding available legal structures, innovators can pursue ventures that push boundaries and disrupt markets. The coordinated relationship between law and business innovation underscores the importance of strategic legal choices. By dispelling these myths about corporate law, businesses and stakeholders can engage more effectively with legal processes and optimize their operations. A clear understanding of corporate law fosters better decisions, thereby driving growth and innovation within legal boundaries. In this evolving landscape, corporate law is not a mere procedural requirement but a vital tool that shapes business success. As legal frameworks advance alongside technological and economic developments, their influence will only grow. Engaging with corporate law as a strategic partner provides an enduring competitive edge in dynamic environments. If you need an attorney specializing in corporate law , contact Peak Law today!
By 7074279023 August 5, 2025
Merging, Buying or Selling a Business? Peak Law examines technology assets and cybersecurity compliance during merger and acquisition due diligence. They identify risks and help clients maintain data integrity and legal compliance. Technology is a key consideration in modern merger and acquisition, and Peak Law is equipped to handle it.
By 7074279023 July 31, 2025
Merging, Buying or Selling a Business? Peak Law evaluates and manages real estate aspects in merger and acquisition transactions, including lease transfers and property valuations. They ensure legal compliance and help clients avoid costly oversights. Real estate obligations are fully addressed in every Peak Law merger and acquisition.
By 7074279023 July 30, 2025
Merging, Buying or Selling a Business? Peak Law helps businesses prepare for cultural integration following a merger and acquisition. They offer legal guidance on harmonizing policies, codes of conduct, and employment practices. With Peak Law’s help, businesses manage the human side of merger and acquisition transitions.
By 7074279023 July 22, 2025
Merging, Buying or Selling a Business? Peak Law reviews potential merger and acquisition opportunities to ensure alignment with strategic objectives. They help clients determine whether a target fits their vision, mission, and long-term goals. This ensures that every Peak Law-guided merger and acquisition is built on strategic purpose.
By 7074279023 July 18, 2025
The body content of your post goes here. To edit this text, click on it and delete this default text and start typing your own or paste your own from a different source.
By 7074279023 July 17, 2025
In the event of disputes arising from a merger and acquisition, Peak Law offers expert dispute resolution. They represent clients in negotiations, mediations, and litigation when necessary. Peak Law protects client interests long after a merger and acquisition is complete.