Dear Colleagues:
Out of an abundance of caution, the PEC and I have decided to extend the remote work operation for faculty, administrators and staff for another two weeks until Monday, April 13, 2020.
At this time, administrators should have already created a work plan with their supervisor and have become familiar with remote work guidelines. I realize that working remotely is a new experience for most of us and I appreciate your flexibility as we do our best to maintain operations for our students and community members.
As part of these new measures, we are making some changes to campus security. Please be aware that additional measures are being put in place and exterior doors will be locked as of tomorrow at noon. Exceptions to this rule are spaces that students are using such as residence halls and the Marsh Dining Commons. Below is an important message from Mark Quigley about reporting absences at this time.
John Keenan
President
Many of you have questions about your use of leave during this state of emergency regardless of whether you are telecommuting or reporting to work. Please be advised that your unions have been consulted.
Reporting sick with COVID-19 or influenza-like symptoms
If you are sick, whether working remotely or on campus, please contact your supervisor per your department’s regular protocol. If you are experiencing symptoms related to COVID-19 or flu-like symptoms such as fever, a cough, shortness of breath, or some combination of these symptoms, please contact Ezekiel Holt, ADA and leave coordinator, at eholt@salemstate.edu or by telephone at 978.542.7229. Supervisors will also be asked to communicate your status with human resources. Please note that you will need to use accrued sick leave to be compensated.
If you are expected to report to work and you present with COVID-19 or influenza-like symptoms as described above, you will be required to stay out of the workplace for at least 14 days or until medically cleared by your physician. You will use accrued sick leave to be compensated. Please contact Ezekiel Holt, ADA and leave coordinator, at eholt@salemstate.edu or by telephone at 978.542.7229 to discuss options if you do not have available accrued sick time.
Please note that if you are tested or you have COVID-19, the university may be required to notify other employees.
Diagnosed with COVID-19 or exposed to COVID-19
For employees who are expected to report to work, if you have been diagnosed with COVID-19, you will be required to stay out of the workplace for at least 14 days and medically cleared before you may return to work. You will use accrued sick leave to be compensated. Please contact Ezekiel Holt, ADA and leave coordinator, at eholt@salemstate.edu or by telephone at 978.542.7229 to discuss options if you do not have available accrued sick time.
Similarly, if you have been exposed to a confirmed diagnosis of COVID-19 but are not displaying any symptoms, you will be required to remain out of the workplace for 14 days. Please contact Ezekiel Holt, ADA and leave coordinator, at eholt@salemstate.edu or by telephone at 978.542.7229 to discuss leave options.
Contractors and Non-benefitted employees
Contractors and non-benefitted employees, including student employees, will be paid their normal rates through March 27, 2020, based on their regular work schedule.
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
EAP is a resource program available to help employees through stressful situations and events. Those who are concerned about the coronavirus outbreak or who may worry about interacting with people who may have been recently exposed may find this service helpful. To access Mass4You EAP benefits:
- Call 1.844.263.1982 (available 24/7)
- TTY Support for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing: 711.1.844.263.1983
- Visit liveandworkwell.com
- If you need help with a substance use issue for you or a family member, call the toll-free Substance Use Treatment Helpline at 1.855.780.5955 to speak with a licensed clinician 24/7.
Thank you for your attention to these very important matters.
Mark Quigley
Assistant Vice President for Human Resources and Equal Opportunity