Message from Human Resources

Dear Auburn University faculty and staff,

In response to the coronavirus pandemic, Auburn University has made a number of important decisions about university operations, with the health and safety of our students, faculty and staff paramount to each. As we transition back to campus, it is essential that we continue to take reasonable measures to protect our own health as well as the health of the entire campus community, especially those most vulnerable to complications from COVID-19.

In accordance with CDC guidelines, individuals on-campus are expected to take the following reasonable measures to safeguard the health of the campus community:

1. Self-screen before coming to campus.All persons are expected to monitor their own health to limit the spread of the virus. Before coming back to campus, individuals should self-screen for COVID-19 and consult a doctor if showing symptoms or answering “yes” to any of the screening questions.
2. Continue physical distancing: All persons on campus are expected to maintain a distance of at least 6 feet from others whenever possible while on campus.
3. Wear face coverings: All persons on campus are expected to wear a cloth or disposable face covering when the individual is within 6 feet of other people or in an enclosed space with others­ for more than 10 minutes, even if 6 feet of physical distancing is possible. Individuals may wear face coverings of their choice that meet the standards set by the CDC.
4. Practice good hygiene: All persons on campus are expected to:
   • Wash their hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after using the restroom or touching their face;
   • Wipe down commonly touched surfaces in their work areas periodically.

This policy will be in effect from May 10–June 30, 2020, unless otherwise modified based on new information and guidance from public health officials, and it applies to all people on campus. If you have questions or concerns about this policy, please reach out to your supervisor.

Face coverings decrease risk of virus transmission

Maintaining a distance of 6 feet from others may not be feasible in common areas such as hallways, stairwells, elevators and other enclosed or high-traffic spaces. For this reason, face coverings are expected to be worn in these areas unless at least 6 feet can be maintained between persons at all times. If there are to be multiple people in the room for more than ten minutes, wearing cloth or disposable face coverings will be expected of people in these areas, regardless of spacing between individuals. Face coverings are not required when individuals are the sole occupant of a room, such as a personal office.

Individuals are expected to provide their own face coverings that meet or exceed CDC guidelines. Some work areas may have more stringent requirements, which will be addressed by supervisors, department heads and deans.

Keep in mind that a face covering is not a replacement for vigilant physical distancing. Continue to maintain at least 6 feet of distance from and minimize the amount of contact time with others. Recent studies have suggested that it is possible to transmit the virus to others before showing symptoms and wearing a cloth face covering decreases the chances of unknowingly transmitting the virus.

Enhanced cleaning measures in place to keep campus healthy

To further ensure the safety of the campus community, Facilities Management has implemented modified custodial services to allow more time for sanitation and disinfection in campus buildings. To allow for a heightened focus on sanitizing and disinfecting high-touch surfaces, some routine tasks have been deferred from their normal schedules. Read more information about custodial services changes here.

We are grateful for your continued commitment to Auburn and for the patience and flexibility you have shown as we navigate these challenges together. The past few months have affirmed what we’ve always known: Auburn is more than its campus, history and traditions—it is our community. 

Thank you.