Plans have been completed for next week’s first wave of volunteers to return to the Vermont campus.
Although fewer than 200 people are likely to be in the building at any one time, we’re sharing some of the preparations with everyone to give you a flavor of the precautions that are being taken.
Everyone who is returning must attest that they are symptom free, have not had Covid-19, or have tested negative for the virus, among other specific stipulations.
They’ll enter through the main lobby only, where swiping their CASI card attests to the questions about Covid. Their temperatures will be taken and they’ll get masks and hand sanitizer.
Masks will have to be worn throughout the building, except when working at one’s own desk with no one closer than six feet.
Elevators will be limited to two passengers at a time. There are also limits in the kitchenettes and elsewhere in the building.
Many more details are being shared with all of the volunteers who are returning, such as limits on offerings in the cafeteria.
This volunteer phase will serve as a pilot for future phases while the bulk of the work force continues to work from home. Future timing will depend on the course of the pandemic.
For now, as the infection rate remains high, the Texas campus will remain closed.