Return to Work Update
Posted June 15, 2020
June 15, 2020
Common or Personal Work Space: This came in the form of a statement rather than a question but it’s a good one. As more people return to work on ground, this seems like a good time to remind everyone of a simple, yet effective, way of reducing the spread of germs. In many areas, office support staff work in areas that are sometimes treated as “common space” by others when it’s really not. Unless someone is working in a shared space, their work space – common as it may appear – is their space. While using another person’s desk and equipment without permission is not very respectful anyway, in this time of a pandemic, it is not an acceptable practice. So, please, stop and think before making free use of someone else’s phone, stapler, computer, etc.
Access to Offices: A few questions were asked about getting into buildings and offices. Beginning this week, all buildings are open. Most are on the Monday – Friday, 7 a.m. – 6 p.m. schedule. If anyone needs access outside of those hours, they can still use their swipe card or call University Police at ext. 3324. Be sure to have your University I.D. with you.
Remote Work: Some questions were asked related to the end date of the Remote Work Agreements. While all remote-work arrangements should be made for a set time period, that time period can be determined by the managing director. The remote work can also be discontinued at any time if it’s not working. So, yes, there is flexibility. The full guidelines are here Work-Remotely Guidelines and Agreement. ITS and HR have developed an on-line Remote Work Request form that can be accessed here. The University will only make on-site visits to the off-site workplace to determine if the work site is safe and free from hazards, to assess special accommodation requests, or to maintain, inspect or retrieve University-owned equipment, software, and supplies. These visits will be rare and likely not at all. And in most cases can probably be accomplished with photos or video remotely.
I’ll have more answers to questions later in the week.
Thank you for all you do. Keep supporting one another and stay well.
Rich Walker
Vice Chancellor for Administration
