May 1, 2023

To all members of the ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ community,

It has been over three years since our community, and the world, had to take extraordinary measures in an effort to mitigate the risks posed by the global COVID-19 pandemic. We have come a long way in that time, navigating challenges with flexibility and compassion, and although COVID-19 is not quite fully gone from our lives, we have adapted and learned to coexist with it.

As we finish the 2022/2023 academic year and move into a new season, please see below an update on the remaining COVID-19 measures at ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´.

No Symptom Reporting: Stay Home if Unwell

You are no longer required to submit a Symptom Reporting Form through cuScreen when you are unwell. Environmental Health and Safety or Health and Wellness Services will no longer be assessing circumstances and advising on appropriate isolation timelines. Previous guidance requiring individuals to self-isolate for five days after the onset of an illness is no longer necessary.

Remaining vigilant and not coming to campus when sick is still important. If you are feeling unwell, protect your colleagues, classmates and the ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ community by staying home until you are feeling better.

Vaccination

Although vaccinations are still recommended as a way to reduce your risks, reporting proof of vaccination is not required. cuScreen will no longer be available to upload vaccination documentation.

Masks

Masks are not required on campus. However, in line with other health care facilities, Health Services and the Sports Medicine Clinic may continue to require masks. Personal preferences regarding optional mask use will vary, and we ask that everyone show respect for the choices of others.

Campus Infrastructure

Facilities Management and Planning will continue to monitor ventilation systems throughout all buildings and the tunnels, which have been fitted with high-efficiency (MERV 13) filters. Hand sanitizer will also continue to be available at all building entrances.

Physical barriers and mitigation methods, such as plexiglass and signage, are no longer required. If you would like assistance with removal, please contact .

Digital Tools

With changes to processes around reporting and assessment, we will no longer need cuScreen to support our efforts. All QR code location check-in posters will be removed. The COVID-19 website and covidinfo@carleton.ca email account will also be retired.

As we transition into this new phase, we continue to be grateful for the flexibility, compassion and respect for one another that we have demonstrated since the beginning of the pandemic.

Sincerely,

Suzanne Blanchard
COVID-19 Lead
On behalf of the COVID-19 Steering Committee

The post Update on the Remaining COVID-19 Measures appeared first on ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ News.

August 30, 2022

To all members of the ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ community,

September is just around the corner and soon we will be returning to campus for the Fall 2022 term. As COVID-19 is still present in the community, it is important that we continue to follow public health guidelines and that we take precautions to reduce our risks. Community is a core value at ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´, and as we start the new academic year, we all have the opportunity to demonstrate the care and compassion that our community is known for.

This email summarizes the COVID-19 measures that will be in place for the fall 2022 term.

Masks Strongly Recommended

In line with current , masking is strongly recommended as a way to protect yourself from COVID-19 – particularly in indoor settings where physical distancing cannot be maintained. In line with other health care facilities, Health Services and the Sports Medicine Clinic will continue to require masks. Masks are available to all faculty and staff and can be obtained from departmental administrators through eShop. Three-layer cloth masks have also been included in our student orientation kits.

Individual preferences regarding mask use will vary. Everyone is empowered to make their own decisions to help reduce personal risk, and we ask everyone to be understanding and respectful of people’s personal choices. Outside of our health care facilities, individuals cannot require colleagues or students to wear masks in classrooms or offices, except in very specific situations such as labs where masks were required prior to the pandemic. Please note that the university’s mandatory mask mandate may be reinstated at a future time, should public health indicators and guidelines change.

Staying Up to Date with Vaccination

Vaccination remains the best protection against serious illness, hospitalization, long-term impacts from COVID-19 and associated potential disruptions to learning or work. As such, we strongly recommend that all members of the ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ community get a full course of vaccination and stay up to date with their vaccinations, including receiving any additional doses as soon as they are eligible to do so.

Although proof of vaccination is not required to access campus or participate in in-person ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ activities, it may become necessary to bring back proof of vaccination requirements on short notice if the situation and public health advice changes. All ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ students, faculty and staff continue to be required to attest to their vaccination status and, if vaccinated, upload proof of vaccination and subsequent booster doses in as soon as possible.

Please note that vary based on your vaccination status, with unvaccinated individuals required to isolate longer. In collaboration with Ottawa Public Health, a COVID-19 vaccination clinic will be held on Thursday, September 15, 2022 from 1:00 to 7:00 p.m. in the Fenn Lounge, Residence Commons. Vaccination appointments are also readily available at community clinics and local pharmacies.

Staying Home if Unwell

Remaining vigilant and not coming to campus when sick or with symptoms is important to contain any spread. If you are feeling unwell, protect your colleagues and classmates by staying home and following the online symptom reporting process.

Ventilation and Hand Sanitizer Stations

Facilities Management and Planning continues to monitor ventilation systems throughout all buildings and the tunnels, which have been fitted with high-efficiency (MERV 13) filters. Additionally, all main air handling systems are running pre- and post-occupancy flushes of ventilation air at least two hours before occupancy and two hours after occupancy. Hand sanitizing stations will continue to be available at building entrances.

Monkeypox

We are continuing to monitor monkeypox and are working with Ottawa Public Health. A monkeypox vaccination clinic will be held for eligible individuals on Wednesday, September 7, 2022, from 1:00 to 7:00 p.m. in the ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ Technology and Training Centre (CTTC) building. More information on monkeypox, the common signs and symptoms, preventing the spread and eligibility for who can receive the vaccine can be found on the .

The well-being of our community remains our highest priority and, as has been the case throughout the pandemic, we will continue to adjust our plans as required to ensure everyone’s health and safety. As always, we will follow public health guidelines and any applicable regulations.

Any questions you may have that are not answered by ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´’s COVID-19 information website and its FAQ section should be forwarded to covidinfo@carleton.ca.

The university will continue to monitor the situation and to communicate any changes. We ask that everyone remains vigilant and continues to show patience and compassion as we navigate our collective return to campus.

Wishing everyone a safe and successful fall term,

Suzanne Blanchard
COVID-19 Lead
On behalf of the COVID-19 Steering Committee

The post Update on Fall 2022 COVID-19 Measures appeared first on ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ News.

May 2, 2022

To all members of the ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ community,

This email aims to summarize the COVID-19 measures that will be in place for the summer 2022 term.

Masks

On the recommendation of Ottawa Public Health, ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ will be maintaining the mandatory COVID-19 Mask Policy until further notice. Masks must be worn in all indoor university facilities including shared offices, meeting spaces, athletics facilities, classrooms and labs. Departments and units can order masks for faculty, staff, contract instructors, teaching assistants, etc. from Procurement Services in eShop.

Vaccination Requirements

Proof of vaccination is no longer required to access campus or participate in in-person ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ activities. However, it may become necessary to bring back proof of vaccination requirements on short notice if the situation and public health advice changes. Everyone must attest to their vaccination status and if vaccinated, upload proof of vaccination and subsequent booster doses in cuScreen.

We strongly recommend that all members of the ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ community get a full course of vaccination, including booster doses as soon as they are eligible, and submit their booster dose information in cuScreen as soon as possible.

Screening Self-Assessments

Remaining vigilant and not coming to campus when sick or with symptoms is critically important. Although no longer required, it is recommended that individuals continue to complete the COVID-19 screening self-assessment in cuScreen each time they come to campus.

Symptom Reporting

The symptom reporting protocols for employees and students have been updated on the COVID-19 website. All individuals who have been on campus in the 5 days before the onset of symptoms potentially linked to COVID-19 or who have received a positive COVID-19 test result must still submit a COVID-19 Symptom Reporting Form through cuScreen.

The completion of this form provides all of the necessary information for Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) and Health and Counselling Services (HCS) to do a proper assessment and follow-up. After completing this form, the individual will be provided with more information from EHS and HCS including next steps and when they are eligible to return to campus.

QR Location Codes

Scanning campus QR location codes with your smartphone camera is no longer required. Please leave all signage regarding QR codes in place should we be required to re-implement this in the future.

cuScreen Ambassadors

The cuScreen Ambassador program has ended and the Ambassadors will no longer be monitoring building entrances.

Physical Distancing and Capacity Limits

Although not required, we strongly encourage all members of our community to practice physical distancing where possible. Capacity limits for on-campus events and activities are no longer adjusted for physical distancing.

Events and Catering

Visit the for up-to-date information regarding event and catering guidelines.

Tunnel Access

Pending the installation of new ventilation equipment, access to the tunnels remains restricted to authorized individuals only and those with approval for accessibility purposes. Please visit the COVID-19 website for information on how to request tunnel access. Access to the tunnels is planned to resume once new ventilation equipment is installed.

Travel

While caution is still recommended when considering any university-related travel, university-related (including research and fieldwork) travel may resume as per our normal (pre-COVID19) travel approval processes.

Research Lab Capacity Limits

Capacity limits for research labs have returned to normal (pre-COVID-19) capacities. Physical distancing is encouraged and masks must be worn until further notice as per ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´â€™s mask policy.

Other Health and Safety Measures

We will continue to maintain our enhanced ventilation measures. Hand sanitizer stations will continue to be placed at building entrances.

It is important to remember that the pandemic is not over. The situation can change at any time and, as we have seen several times, the risk of new variants and outbreaks is very real. We ask that you remain vigilant and supportive and continue to take a number of actions to reduce your risks. We will continue to adjust our plans as required to ensure everyone’s health and safety and to comply with public health advice or any applicable legal requirements.

Any questions you may have that are not answered by ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´’s COVID-19 information website and its FAQ section should be forwarded to covidinfo@carleton.ca.

We know the last two years have been difficult as the pandemic has evolved. We appreciate your flexibility and understanding as we move forward together safely.

Sincerely,

Suzanne Blanchard
COVID-19 Lead

The post Summer 2022 COVID-19 Measures Update appeared first on ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ News.

Key Messages:

• ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ will maintain its mask policy until further notice.
• ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ will be suspending vaccination requirements starting May 1, 2022.
• We strongly recommend all individuals are fully vaccinated against COVID-19, including receiving booster doses as soon as eligible.

To all members of the ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ community,

Several weeks ago, ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ announced that if the pandemic continued to recede, our mask mandate would be suspended as of May 1. Unfortunately, a sixth wave is now driving up the monitoring indicators of COVID-19 in Ottawa. Accordingly, on the recommendation of Ottawa Public Health, ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ will be maintaining the mandatory COVID-19 Mask Policy until further notice. 

The policy requires masks to be worn in all university buildings, including offices, classrooms and labs. Members of the ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ community must continue to wear a three-layer mask that completely and comfortably covers the nose, mouth and chin without gaps and does not allow air to escape from the edges. Masks are available to faculty and staff through their departments/units in eShop.

As previously announced, ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ will be suspending its vaccination requirements for participation in in-person ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ activities beginning May 1, 2022. In line with Public Health advice, we continue to strongly recommend that all members of the ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ community get a full course of vaccination, including booster doses as soon as they are eligible, and submit their booster dose information in cuScreen as soon as possible.  

As has been the case throughout the pandemic, the evolution of the virus and public health conditions are difficult to predict. We will continue to adjust our plans as required by these evolving conditions to ensure everyone’s health and safety and to comply with public health advice or any applicable legal requirements.

Any questions you may have that are not answered by  and its FAQ section should be forwarded to covidinfo@carleton.ca.

Thank you for your patience and understanding as we continue to respond to changing conditions in real-time.

Sincerely,

Suzanne Blanchard
COVID-19 Lead

The post COVID-19 Mask Policy Remains in Place Until Further Notice appeared first on ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ News.

March 29, 2022

Key Messages:

• Like other universities in Ontario, ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ will suspend vaccination and mask requirements starting May 1, 2022.
• As we may have to reinstate vaccine mandates at a later time, faculty and staff are still required to attest to their vaccination status in cuScreen.
• All individuals are strongly recommended to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19, including receiving booster doses.
• Everyone expected to respect personal choices regarding mask-wearing.

To all members of the ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ community,

We write to provide an update on changes to campus public health measures that will be in place on campus for the summer 2022 term and beyond.

Following discussions with other Ontario universities and in light of the recent relaxation of public health restrictions as part of the  and , ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ will suspend its vaccination and masking requirements for participation in in-person ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ activities beginning May 1, 2022.

As has been the case throughout the pandemic, the evolution of the virus and public health conditions are difficult to predict, so this decision is contingent on current conditions and directions continuing. We will adjust our plans as required by these evolving conditions to ensure everyone’s health and safety and to comply with public health advice or any applicable legal requirements.

Vaccination attestation

Although proof of vaccination will no longer be required starting May 1, it may become necessary to bring back proof of vaccination requirements on short notice if the situation and public health advice changes. To ensure we can minimize any disruption to our learning and work environment, ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ will maintain a requirement for faculty and staff, to  and if vaccinated, to upload proof of vaccination and subsequent booster doses in .

We strongly recommend that all members of the ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ community get a full course of vaccination, including booster doses as soon as they are eligible, and submit their booster dose information in  as soon as possible.

Masks

Although individuals will no longer be required to wear a mask on campus after May 1, we recommend doing so when indoors and when physical distancing cannot be maintained. Further, we support all members of our community who choose to either wear or not wear a mask, and we expect everyone to respect each other’s personal choices. Many individuals will have personal or family reasons for continuing to wear masks in public places. Please show consideration and care for each other during this transition. Masks are available to faculty and staff through their departments/units in .

What this means for students

Starting May 1, proof of vaccination is not required to participate in in-person ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ activities including in-person classes. However, please be aware that if ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ were required to reinstate the vaccination requirement at a future time, students who did not keep their vaccination status up to date in  could find their in-person studies interrupted and may not be able to get necessary vaccinations in time to be able to return to campus to finish their term.

We strongly recommend that students who have not yet attested to their vaccination status in  do so as soon as possible even if they are not vaccinated. Being vaccinated and maintaining your  will reduce the risk of interruption to your studies.

What this means for faculty and staff

Faculty and staff are required to . We strongly encourage everyone to be up to date with their vaccinations. If ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ were required to reinstate our vaccination requirement at a future time, unvaccinated or not fully vaccinated faculty and staff will be subject to the University’s policy and appropriate action could be taken. Staff should consult with their manager or supervisor regarding their unit’s return to campus plans.

Screening requirements and symptom reporting

Remaining vigilant and not attending work or school when sick or with symptoms is critically important. The  will no longer be mandatory after May 1 but will remain active for those who wish to complete the screening self-assessment before coming to campus.

All individuals who have been on campus in the 10 days before the onset of symptoms potentially linked to COVID-19 or who have received a positive COVID-19 test result must still submit a .

Additional measures

While we will be suspending vaccination and mask requirements on May 1, we will maintain our  and  will continue to be placed at building entrances. At this time,  remains restricted to authorized individuals and those with approval for accessibility purposes. Regular access to the tunnels will be reinstated once the tunnel ventilation project is completed.

Looking ahead

As always, the health and safety of all members of the ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ community is our top priority. We continue to strongly recommend full vaccination and booster doses against COVID-19 as advised by public health authorities. If you are eligible for COVID-19 vaccination or booster doses, . Vaccination remains the best protection against the worst effects of COVID-19 and its variants and is the most important way to protect public health.

While we see encouraging conditions, it is important to remember that the pandemic is not over. We know that the situation can change at any time, and the risks of new variants and outbreaks are very real. We also ask that you remain vigilant and supportive. Further, we encourage you to review .

Any questions you may have that are not answered by  and its  should be forwarded to covidinfo@carleton.ca.

We are immensely proud of the way that the University community has come together to keep one another safe since this pandemic started more than two years ago. This has been an extraordinarily challenging time for all of us, and we remain grateful to our community’s ability to adjust to changing circumstances in real-time and continue showing flexibility and compassion.

As always, we thank you for continuing to work together to facilitate a safe and successful return to campus.

Sincerely,

Benoit-Antoine Bacon
President and Vice-Chancellor

Suzanne Blanchard
COVID-19 Lead

The post Vaccine and Mask Requirements Suspended Starting May 1 appeared first on ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ News.

February 24, 2022

To all members of the ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ community,

On , the provincial government started to ease public health measures in Ontario. This announcement included increasing social gathering limits; increasing organized public event limits; removing capacity limits within restaurants and athletic facilities as well as indoor areas that choose to opt-in to proof of vaccination requirements. The province has also announced that if indicators continue to improve, Ontario will continue to progressively lift public health measures.

At this time, following discussions with public health and other universities in Ontario, ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ is not planning significant changes to . This message summarizes these protocols and outlines the safe and gradual easing of measures for international travel, research labs, events and meeting protocols.

Vaccination Requirements
As confirmed by the , in order to minimize uncertainty and disruption to our students, staff, faculty and university communities, Ontario’s universities will maintain their COVID-19 vaccination policies until at least the end of the current term. As a result, the ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´  will remain in place for everyone eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine (ages 5 and up) for at least the remainder of the winter 2022 term. The Ontario university sector is reviewing plans for future terms and more information will be provided as it becomes available. We strongly recommend that all members of the ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ community  when eligible.

Masks
The Government of Ontario has not changed the provincial mask requirements at this time. Masks continue to be required and worn on campus including in classrooms and labs, in line with public health requirements and . Members of the ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ community can continue to wear a three-layer non-medical mask that completely and comfortably covers the nose, mouth and chin without gaps and does not allow air to escape from edges. Departments and units can order masks for faculty and staff from Procurement Services in .

cuScreen
Individuals are required to continue completing the  in  each day they come to campus. Individuals must also check in to their final destination using QR location codes in  and follow the .

cuScreen Ambassadors
cuScreen Ambassadors will continue to be on campus to encourage everyone to follow public health guidelines and regulations, help with directions, check screening results and answer any questions about COVID-19 procedures you have.

Class Schedules
Classes will continue as per the winter 2022 schedule for the remainder of the term.

Tunnel Access
Access to the tunnels remains restricted to authorized individuals only and those with approval for accessibility purposes. Please visit the COVID-19 website for information on how to . We anticipate that access to the tunnels will resume at the beginning of the summer 2022 term once new ventilation equipment is installed.

Phase 4 Units
We are continuing to implement our safe and gradual return to campus plans.  will return to campus as previously planned unless otherwise communicated. Questions regarding your unit’s return can be directed to your manager or supervisor.

International Travel – New
In light of the recent Global Affairs Canada changes to international travel advisories, university-related (including research and fieldwork) incoming and outgoing international travel, may be permitted where it is preferable for work purposes and career development. Individuals travelling abroad should follow the  as well as all government travel requirements including those at their destination and for return to Canada.

Research Labs Capacity Limits – New
Following a review of research lab usage, research labs can be considered instructional spaces. As a consequence, capacity in research labs will be increased to 50 per cent for instructional purposes. While there is no longer a requirement to maintain two metres of physical distancing in research labs when used as an instructional space, it is still recommended that individuals maintain physical distancing wherever possible. All individuals in the lab must continue to follow all .

Events Capacity Limits and Safe Meeting Protocols – New
We will be gradually increasing the capacity limits for activities and events on campus in line with Provincial regulations. All events are required to follow health and safety measures including vaccination requirements, screening via , wearing of masks and physical distancing where possible. Limited catering services will also resume. Requests to host events can be submitted through the . Additionally, the  have been updated.

We are continuing to monitor Ontario’s reopening plans and will adjust our plans as required by evolving regulations and public health advice. We are also continuing to work collaboratively with the Ontario university sector to develop a scenario plan for health and safety measures for the spring and fall terms and more information will be communicated as it becomes available.

These are challenging times, and we continue to adjust to changing circumstances in real-time. As always, we are grateful for our community’s flexibility and compassion in this context. Thank you for continuing to work together to facilitate a safe and successful return to campus.

Sincerely,

Suzanne Blanchard
COVID-19 Lead
On behalf of the COVID-19 Steering Committee

The post Winter 2022 COVID-19 Measures Update appeared first on ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ News.

To all Members of the ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ Community,

We write to provide a summary of measures in place on campus as we prepare to resume our safe and gradual return to campus on Monday, February 7. As always, the health and safety of all members of the ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ community is our top priority. All protocols previously established for the fall term will remain in place throughout the rest of the winter term. We summarize this information below and provide additional information regarding mask requirements, third dose booster vaccinations and self-isolation guidelines.

As we write this, we are acutely aware of the disruptions created by the protests downtown and around the city. Unfortunately, it is possible that they will still be unfolding when we resume our on-campus activities next Monday. Events of this type and on this scale, in our own city, can be very disturbing or even traumatizing to members of our community. It has been especially troubling to see symbols of hate, and we reiterate that antisemitism, anti-Black racism and indeed any form of discrimination or racism is absolutely unacceptable. We encourage everyone to take care of themselves and each other, and to remember that support is available for students through Health and Counselling Services and and for faculty and staff through the Employee and Family Assistance Program.

This message attempts to capture the most useful information about the return to campus in a concise and easily accessible way, but further details are also available on the COVID-19 website.

Vaccine Requirements
Pursuant to public health recommendations, ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ requires proof of full vaccination (two doses) to attend campus. Individuals are required to submit their attestation of vaccination status (and, if vaccinated, their proof of vaccination) in cuScreen.

Third Dose Booster Vaccine and Clinics
In alignment with recommendations from Ottawa Public Health, we strongly recommend that all members of the ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ community get their third dose booster of the COVID-19 vaccine when eligible. Although not mandated to access campus at this time, individuals will be able to submit their proof of their third-dose booster in cuScreen as of tomorrow.

Health and Counselling Services will be offering booster vaccination clinics on campus from Monday, February 7 to Friday, February 11, 2022. Advanced registration is required. Additional clinics may be held on campus based on overall demand and more information will be available on the Health and Counselling Services website.

Arriving on Campus
Before arriving on campus, you are required to complete the COVID-19 screening self-assessment in cuScreen. This screening must be completed each day you come to campus. You are also required to wear a mask while indoors, use hand sanitizer upon building entry and check in to your final destination using QR location codes in cuScreen. Signage has been posted for designated entrances and exits, directional flow and physical distancing markers.

ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ cuScreen
As previously communicated, cuScreen is ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´â€™s COVID-19 screening tool. cuScreen is an easy-to-use web-based application that can be used on any device with a web browser, including your phone, tablet or computer, and allows users to:

• complete their daily COVID-19 screening self-assessment prior to arriving on campus,
• check in to designated locations by scanning QR location codes posted in buildings across campus, and
• report symptoms potentially linked to COVID-19.

You can log in to cuScreen using your MyÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´One (MC1) credentials. Additional information is available through the FAQs on the website.

cuScreen Ambassadors
cuScreen Ambassadors, identified by their red cuScreen Ambassador t-shirts, will be on campus to encourage everyone to follow public health guidelines and regulations, help with directions, check screening results and answer any questions about COVID-19 procedures you have.

Mask Requirements
Masks are required to be worn on campus including in classrooms and labs, in line with public health requirements and ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´â€™s Mask Policy. Members of the ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ community can continue to wear a three-layer non-medical mask that completely and comfortably covers the nose, mouth and chin without gaps and does not allow air to escape from edges.

A limited supply of KN95 masks are available from Procurement Services in eShop and we are working on acquiring an additional supply. A limit of five KN95 masks are available to each individual and can be reused with proper care. Level 3 Rated Medical Masks are also available from Procurement Services in eShop. Level 3 medical masks are acceptable alternatives, having achieved filtration efficiency comparable to the KN95. We ask that you be responsible in your approach to ordering masks and ensure your unit/department is coordinated in its requests.

Symptom Reporting
All individuals who have been on campus in the 10 days prior to the onset of symptoms potentially linked to COVID-19 or who have received a positive COVID-19 test result must submit a COVID-19 Symptom Reporting Form through cuScreen. A series of protocols have been developed by Environmental Health and Safety and Health and Counselling Services that are in line with public health guidelines to provide step-by-step instruction to managers, directors, supervisors and course instructors when a member of our community discloses symptoms of COVID-19 or receives a positive test result. The Employee COVID-19 Protocol and Student COVID-19 Protocol are available on the COVID-19 website.

Self-Isolation Guidelines
If you are experiencing symptoms potentially linked to COVID-19, please submit a COVID-19 Symptom Reporting Form through cuScreen. To minimize confusion regarding self-isolation guidelines, Environmental Health and Safety or Health and Counselling Services will be in touch following the report to advise on appropriate self-isolation procedures and timelines.

Building Ventilation
The main air handling systems in all buildings have been fitted with high-efficiency (MERV 13) filters. All main air handling systems are providing pre- and post-occupancy flushes of ventilation air at least 2 hours before occupancy and 2 hours after occupancy. The systems are continuously monitored throughout the day by FMP Building Operations staff and FMP has engaged a third-party consultant to verify and recommission ventilation systems. More information is available on the ventilation strategy for the return to campus website.

Capacity Limits and Physical Distancing
Each unit has been given capacity limits as part of its return to campus plan in line with physical distancing requirements and signage has been posted to direct appropriate traffic flow within buildings to assist in this regard. As previously communicated, capacity limits in classrooms have been incrementally increased to provide more in-person learning opportunities for students while ensuring appropriate physical distancing in line with public health guidelines for instructional spaces.

Classroom Guidelines
Guidelines have been developed for in-class teaching and labs and are available on the COVID-19 website. In addition, language has been provided for course instructors to include in course outlines to keep students informed of expectations surrounding safety protocols. This information is available on the .

Supplies
To facilitate the safe and gradual return to campus, departments can order critical items through eShop. Departments will be able to order supplies directly from vendors or from Procurement Services, as outlined in the Return To Campus Purchasing Guide. You are asked to be responsible in your approach to acquiring items and ensure your unit/department is coordinated in its requests.

Cleaning Protocols
Facilities Management and Planning (FMP) has implemented cleaning protocols for buildings, classrooms, common spaces and study spaces in compliance with public health cleaning guidelines. Custodial staff will clean internal departmental spaces (e.g. departmental, administration, graduate and teaching assistant offices) weekly, and employees are responsible for wiping down their personal workstation (e.g. desk surface, chair, keyboard, computer, etc.) at any frequency they require for their personal safety.

Hand Sanitizer Stations
Hand sanitizer stations have been deployed at building entrances and are monitored regularly to determine the frequency of use. Depending on the traffic volume, additional stations will be deployed as needed. Should a hand sanitizer station require servicing, individuals are encouraged to notify the FMP Service Desk. Additional hand sanitizing mitigation measures are outlined in each unit’s approved return to campus plan. Units looking to acquire full-service hand sanitizer stations in their space may engage with the university’s preferred supplier by completing the Hand Sanitizer Dispenser Service Form in the Return to Campus Purchasing catalogue in eShop.

Water Treatment and Legionella Testing
ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ has been flushing the water in our buildings as well as testing for the presence of any Legionella bacteria regularly since March 2020. The university has also been following the testing protocols as outlined in the Public Works and Government Services Canada Standard, MD15161 -2013 Control of Legionella in Mechanical Systems. In addition to Legionella testing, ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ conducts regular testing of our cold-water systems to ensure our drinking water remains healthy and safe. More information is available on the water treatment program and legionella testing website.

Tunnel Access
Access to the tunnels remains restricted to authorized individuals only and those with approval for accessibility purposes. Tunnel access requests should be directed by email to your manager, supervisor, Dean or relevant approver. They will submit your tunnel access approval to covidinfo@carleton.ca.

Dining Services
The Food Court will reopen on Monday, February 7 and will remain open Monday to Friday from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Additionally, the Starbucks in Residence commons, the Tim Hortons in Richcraft Hall and Bridgehead in the Nicol Building will remain open. For up-to-date information on what is open, please visit the .

Winter Term Events
To assist with maintaining capacity limits and physical distancing, departments and individuals are encouraged to host in-person events only when they cannot be hosted remotely and are critical to the core mission of the university. Capacity for any in-person events is limited and will be restricted in line with provincial requirements. Requests to host events can be made by submitting the .

Phased Return of Units
Beginning Monday, February 7, 2022, units in Phases 2 and 3 will resume in-person operations on campus similar to Fall 2021. Units in Phase 4 will return to campus as previously planned unless otherwise communicated. Questions regarding your unit’s return can be directed to your manager or supervisor.

For additional information on protocols and mitigation measures in place for the health and safety of the ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ community, please visit the COVID-19 website for more details. Staff who have further questions relating to their unit should speak to their supervisor/manager.

As always, we are grateful for our community’s flexibility and compassion in this challenging context. Thank you for continuing to work together to facilitate a safe and successful return to campus.

Sincerely,

Benoit-Antoine Bacon
President and Vice-Chancellor

Suzanne Blanchard
COVID-19 Lead

The post Message from the President and COVID-19 Lead: Important Return to Campus Information appeared first on ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ News.

January 18, 2022

Good morning everyone,

I hope that you were able to enjoy restful holidays and that your winter semester is off to a good start under the circumstances. Let me start by wishing everyone all the best for 2022, in the hope that we will see, over the course of the year, a significant decrease in the disruptions brought about by the ongoing pandemic.

As you know, prior to the holidays, the Omicron variant was accelerating at an unprecedented rate and along with all other universities in Ontario, we  plans and to hold the first few weeks of the winter term remotely. As always, I am grateful for the flexibility and compassion our community demonstrated on such a tight timeline to start the term successfully.

Looking ahead, recent modelling confirms that the Omicron spike will be narrow, with cases likely having peaked or being about to peak, and expected to decrease rapidly thereafter. Accordingly, in consultation with public health authorities, the Ontario university sector is moving towards a resumption of in-person activities from January 31 onwards.

In discussion with the ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ University Scenario Planning (CUSP) working group and the Faculty Deans, it was deemed preferable to delay our return to campus by one more week, so as to give everyone additional time to prepare. This additional delay will also allow for a better assessment of the impact of schools reopening on January 17. As such, barring another dramatic change in the trajectory of the pandemic, we will re-open our facilities (following public health regulations) and resume our in-person courses (as per the winter 2022 schedule) and activities on Monday, February 7, 2022. 

I am grateful that our in-person activities for winter 2022 were carefully established with the health and safety of our community as our primary concern. Especially given that we have maintained physical distancing in all classrooms in designing the winter 2022 schedule, we are confident that these activities can be delivered safely in the present context. The health and safety protocols previously established will remain in place including mandatory vaccination,  and reduced capacity limits, as well as completion of cuScreen prior to coming to campus and symptom reporting.

Students who wish to make changes to their course schedule need to do so by Monday, January 24, 2022. Questions regarding course selections or registration can be directed to the Registrar’s Office or to the appropriate department.

Beginning Monday, February 7, 2022, units in Phases 2 and 3 will resume in-person operations on campus similar to Fall 2021. Units in Phase 4 will be contacted regarding the scheduling of their return to campus.

We strongly recommend that all members of the ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ community get their third dose booster of the COVID-19 vaccine as soon as possible. Public health officials have advised that individuals should receive their third dose as soon as 84 days after their prior dose. Vaccines are readily available and 

I want to take a moment and acknowledge some of the challenges and stressors of the pandemic upon our community. Some of you with young children have been facing the challenges of virtual schooling and now, of the return back to school. Others may be concerned with elder care, or worrying about a loved one who is more at risk. The impacts of the pandemic continue to affect us all. I want to remind everyone that no one has to suffer in silence and that when in need, reaching out to your network or to professional services is a well-advised and courageous act. An array of services are always available to support our students as well as staff and faculty.

As always, any questions you may have that are not answered by ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´â€™s COVID-19 information website and its FAQ section should be forwarded to covidinfo@carleton.ca.

In closing, let me thank you again for your flexibility and compassion. We are all in this together, and I am sure that you can think of many colleagues who have epitomized the ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ spirit in these challenging times. Please consider showing your appreciation by nominating them for a Service Excellence Award before the deadline of January 21. The annual Service Excellence Awards celebration is a truly special annual event that brings us all together and I look forward to seeing you there, virtually, on February 24.

Take care everyone,

Benoit

Benoit-Antoine Bacon
President and Vice-Chancellor

The post Message from the President: Resuming Our Safe and Gradual Return to Campus appeared first on ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ News.

Key Messages:

• Buildings will remain open until December 23, 2021
• ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ University will be closed from December 24, 2021, to January 4, 2022
• Building access will be restricted from January 5 to 31, 2022
• Updates on campus services and events throughout January 2022
• Isolate for 10 days if you or a member of your household has COVID-19 symptoms

December 22, 2021

To all Members of the ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ Community,

As noted in the President’s message of December 16, 2021, due to the rise of Omicron, employees are to only come to campus to perform necessary work that cannot be conducted remotely. These restrictions will remain in place until January 31, 2022. This message aims to provide a detailed update on building access protocols and campus services for January.

Please note that in line with our protocols throughout the fall, faculty and staff must complete a COVID-19 Self-Assessment in cuScreen and must be fully vaccinated to temporarily access their office during this period.

Holiday Closure

As previously communicated, ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ University will be closed from Friday, December 24, 2021, through Tuesday, January 4, 2022, inclusively, and will re-open on Wednesday, January 5, 2022. Buildings will remain open until December 23, 2021, to allow faculty and staff to retrieve items they may need to operate remotely in January. Buildings will remain closed December 24, 2021, to January 4, 2022.

Restricted Building Access

Beginning January 5, 2022, access to the majority of university buildings will remain limited to authorized individuals only and public access will remain restricted. To access these buildings for necessary work that cannot be done remotely, please use your Campus Card or call Campus Safety Services (613-520-3612). Unlike previous protocols, faculty and staff do not require approval from their supervisor, manager or Dean for temporary access to their office. Faculty and staff must complete a COVID-19 Self-Assessment in cuScreen and must be fully vaccinated to temporarily access their office.

and the will be closed from December 20, 2021 to January 9, 2022.

For up-to-date information on the status of buildings and other services, please visit the Building Updates webpage.

Dining Locations on Campus

As a result of the reduced activity on campus in January 2022, most dining locations on campus will be closed. However, and subject to public health requirements, the Tim Hortons in Richcraft Hall will re-open on January 5, 2022, and the Starbucks in Residence Commons will re-open on January 10, 2022. The first meal served in the caf for the winter term will be dinner on January 9, 2022, with take-out options only, set meal periods and a streamlined menu. The Oasis will also resume late-night take out only service for students on January 10, 2022. More details will be available on the .

Updates on Campus Services and Events

Mail delivery by Mail Services is currently on hold until further notice and individuals can schedule an appointment for pick-up. Please note that couriers will not make deliveries to individual campus locations (other than those regularly delivered to Science Stores). For all courier deliveries, please ensure that you specify the delivery location as your home or make alternate arrangements with your courier.

will remain open for in-person and online shopping, subject to public health guidelines. The Print Shop will continue to accept orders by email and through eShop with delivery or curbside pickup by appointment only. Campus Card and U-Pass services will be available by appointment only beginning January 5, 2022.

All in-person ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ conferences and events have been cancelled until January 31, 2022.

Isolation Requirements

Due to more people testing positive for COVID-19 and the emergence of the Omicron variant, Ottawa Public Health is . Individuals who have symptoms of COVID-19 and who are unable to access a timely COVID-19 test should assume that they are infected with Omicron and self-isolate immediately for 10 days from symptom onset. All members of the individual’s household, regardless of vaccination status, are also directed to self-isolate. For more information, please visit the and follow their directions.

The unprecedented spread of the Omicron variant is a reminder that we need to continue following public health guidelines to reduce transmission and prevent our health system from becoming overwhelmed. We encourage you to reassess your holiday plans, specifically any international travel and attendance at large gatherings, and we strongly encourage you to as soon as you are eligible.

These are challenging times, and we continue to adjust to changing circumstances in real time. We wish you all the best for a safe and restful holiday season.

Sincerely,

Suzanne Blanchard
COVID-19 Lead

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December 16, 2021

Hello everyone,

As we prepare to head into the winter holidays, we are seeing the Omicron variant spread at an unprecedented rate. Projections by the Ontario Science Advisory Table indicate that new cases in the province could reach .

In this context, following discussions with public health authorities, the Council of Ontario Universities, and , we will hold the first three weeks of the winter 2022 courses fully online. As part of our commitment to the health and wellbeing of our community, we are making this decision proactively to provide as much certainty as possible to students, faculty and staff in advance of the holiday break.

All winter term classes will begin online from January 10, 2022. Subject to public health guidance, we anticipate in-person instruction to start Monday January 31 for courses currently scheduled to be delivered in-person. We are continuing to monitor the rapidly evolving situation and will provide further updates in January.

As we complete the fall 2021 semester, the small number of in person exams scheduled from Monday, December 20 and onwards will be moved online or rescheduled.

From December 20 until January 31, employees should only come to campus to perform necessary work that cannot be conducted remotely. Research that cannot be performed from home can continue to proceed on campus following public health guidelines and indoor capacity limits. Detailed plans for the library, residences and athletics will soon be communicated by these units.

We strongly recommend that all members of the ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ community get their third dose of the COVID-19 vaccine as soon as possible. Everyone in our community should be eligible as of Monday, December 20, as .

We understand that this pause in our safe and gradual return to campus is disappointing. However, in the face of such an aggressive variant, these measures are necessary to protect the health and safety of our community.

As always, any questions you may have that are not answered by ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´’s COVID-19 information website and its FAQ section should be forwarded to covidinfo@carleton.ca.

Wishing everyone a safe and restful holiday season,

Benoit

Benoit-Antoine Bacon
President and Vice-Chancellor

The post Message from the President: Important Update – Responding to Omicron appeared first on ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ News.