COVID-19 Transition to Work (FAQ)
FAQ for Phase 1 of the Southern University Ag Center's Reopening
Is the coronavirus and COVID-19 the same disease?
Yes, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on February 11, 2020 the World Health Organization announced an official name for the disease that caused the 2019 novel coronavirus outbreak, first identified in Wuhan China. The new name of this disease is coronavirus disease 2019, abbreviated as COVID-19. In COVID-19, ‘CO’ stands for ‘corona,’ ‘VI’ for ‘virus,’ and ‘D’ for the disease. Formerly, this disease was referred to as “2019 novel coronavirus” or “2019-nCoV”.
Can all SU Ag Center employees return to work?
No, the Campus’ hybrid/telecommuter and telecommuter work structure will remain in place and continue through the summer, or until further notice from the Chancellor-Dean.
What does a phased approach mean for the Southern University Ag Center?
For the Southern University Ag Center, a phased approach for employees to return to work will include three phases. During Phase 1, 25% or less of the SU Ag Center’s staff will return to work. Additional staff will report to work during Phases 2 and 3 or until further notice from the Chancellor-Dean. The Center is currently developing plans for Phase 1.
How will the campus provide its employees with a safe working environment during Phase 1?
All buildings occupied by the Southern University Ag Center and the College of Agricultural, Family and Consumer Sciences have been professionally cleaned/sanitized. The Campus is in the process of purchasing materials and supplies to ensure a safe working environment. The Campus is also following CDC Guidance.
Will face coverings or masks be required while at work or on campus?
Per CDC guidelines and COVID-19 Task Force Guidance, face coverings (over the nose and mouth) should be used when social distancing is not feasible.
Will the campus provide masks and cleaning supplies to employees?
Yes, the Campus will provide employees with best practices for safety materials. These supplies are to be used only at the employee’s worksite and program sites.
Can employees return to campus whenever they want?
No, employees should continue working in their assigned hybrid and/or telecommuter work mode unless notified by their supervisor.
Can employees participate in university-sponsored travel?
All university-sponsored travel for the faculty, staff, and students of the Southern University Ag Center and the College of Agricultural, Family and Consumer Sciences will remain suspended until August 1, 2020 or until further notice from the Chancellor-Dean.
Will any events or programming be held during the summer?
Programming and activities for the Southern University Ag Center will be evaluated on a case by case bases until further notice.
Are there any confirmed cases of coronavirus at the Southern University Ag Center and the College of Agricultural, Family and Consumer Sciences?
Yes, there have been three reported cases on our campus. Visit http://www.sus.edu/page/coronavirus-updates-information for the total number of coronavirus cases per campus on the Southern University System. For up-to-date information about the coronavirus within the state of Louisiana visit, http://ldh.la.gov/coronavirus/. To received text alerts on the coronavirus from the Governor’s Office, text LACOVID to 67283.
What to do if I receive notification that I have been exposed to the coronavirus?
Notify your supervisor, follow CDC guidance and the Southern University System Coronavirus Notification Protocol.
What should I do if I am diagnosed with the coronavirus?
If an employee tests positive for the coronavirus, follow CDC guidance, notify your supervisor and follow the Southern University System Coronavirus Protocol.
