Must Do
- Plan and execute a phased return of employees to no more than 30% of the workforce at a time, staggering phases every 2–4 weeks up to for full return. Depending on the size and needs of the workforce, the percentage may vary.
- Encourage those with increased risk of severe illness or those over age 65 to continue working remotely, when possible. If remote work is not possible, vulnerable employees should be given duties that minimize their contact with visitors and other employees. Provide accommodations to enhance the protection of vulnerable employees. Examples include providing additional or enhanced personal protective equipment (PPE); placing physical barriers to separate the vulnerable employee from coworkers or the public; eliminating, reducing, or substituting less critical, non-essential job functions that create more risk of exposure; modifying work schedules; or, moving employee workstations. Work with Human Resources to determine additional options, if needed.
- Review and discuss department-specific policies and protocols, including resources available the person to contact for any questions or concerns.
- Communicate often keeping in mind employee’s well-being/state of mind and being flexible within reason.
- Provide PPE, as called for by the work, to support increased environmental cleaning, and promote employee health care.
- Instruct employees not to use other employees’ workspaces or equipment.
- Post and promote University provided prevention posters and literature.
- Use provided checklist should an employee or student disclose they either tested positive for COVID-19, resides with someone who tested positive, or has been within six feet or less of someone who tested positive for longer than 15 minutes.
Where Feasible
- Gauge employee willingness to volunteer to be the first to return and prioritize those with the greatest ability/desire to return. Allow those who may be vulnerable and/or are experiencing childcare difficulties to be the last to return and/or delay their return to the campus.
- Supervisors may continue to encourage their staff to work remotely if that has proven productive and effective.
- The beginning and end of the workday typically bring many people together at common entry/exit points of buildings. Staggering reporting and departure times will reduce traffic in common areas to meet social distancing requirements to reduce the number of people in the workplace at the same time.
- Conduct meetings electronically, even when working on campus. If meetings cannot be conducted virtually, individuals should wear face mask/coverings and follow current guidance from the Governor, which is:
- Group Gatherings (Social Distancing IS NOT Possible): Public and private social gatherings and recreational activities shall be limited to groups of no more than 10 people in a single indoor space or groups of no more than 50 people in an outdoor space where individuals are in close proximity (less than 6 feet) to each other.
- Group Gatherings (Social Distancing IS Possible): Except as otherwise provided, public and private social gatherings and recreational activities shall be limited to groups of no more than 20 people in a single indoor space or groups of no more than 100 people in an outdoor space where individuals are able to maintain a minimum of 6 feet separation.
- Encourage single occupancy in work rooms.