COVID-19 Field Protocol: Worksite Planning Checklist
Institutional Review:
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Submit a Field Research Continuity Request form (available here); the VCRO must review and approve exception requests to continue critical field research as well as critical on-campus lab research during the COVID-19 pandemic and Statewide Shelter-in-Place order.
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On March 19 the State Department issued a Global Level 4 Health Advisory -- DO NOT TRAVEL. Updated international travel protocols and approval process are posted on the UC Berkeley Global Engagement website: https://globalengagement.berkeley.edu/faculty-staff/international-travel-resources.
Precautions and considerations if approval is granted:
- Stay home if sick with a fever or cough or recent travel to higher risk regions/close contact with suspect cases within the last 14 days
- Remind all participants to register travel via UC Away: https://ehs.ucop.edu/away/#/
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Modify activities to maintain 6 foot social distancing
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Ensure adequate water and soap for handwashing
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Promote hygiene: wash hands for 20 seconds and wipe down surfaces often, cough into sleeve, dispose of tissues
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Develop an enhanced cleaning/disinfection protocol for any shared bathrooms, kitchen facilities, or shared equipment
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Bring extra hand soap, hand sanitizer, and disinfectant wipes
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Carry a thermometer in your first aid kit
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Maintain robust communication to receive updates or get assistance; maintain a frequent check in schedule
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Carry a written emergency plan; consider distance to medical care and limited medical services/support for other injuries or illness
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For overnight trips, ensure extra lodging is available to maintain social distancing, i.e. single rooms, single tents
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Even for small groups, discuss transportation options to maintain social distancing; avoid public transportation
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Continue to monitor precautions and maintain flexibility to alter plans at any time, self-isolate, or return home
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Keep a lookout for updated campus guidance on the COVID-19 pandemic: https://news.berkeley.edu/coronavirus/
For additional questions or concerns, please contact EH&S Field Safety - fieldsafety@berkeley.edu.