The updates include new weather closure procedures and vaccination policies for visitors on campus
On Nov. 25, the University of Guelph released an online update regarding policy changes that it had recently made to account for the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
Included in this update was information about the university’s new inclement weather and emergency closure policies.
The new policy states that, if hazardous weather conditions develop, most face-to-face operations on campus will be cancelled and rescheduled to a later date. This includes lectures, labs, tutorials, and exams.
Classes and exams held online will continue to operate as usual. Similarly, U of G employees who work remotely will not be affected by the closures.
However, employees who perform essential duties will still be required to travel to campus and report to their workplaces. This includes, but is not limited to, those who work in hospitality services, student housing services, student health services, physical resources, and the campus safety office.
Campus closures will be announced over social media and through the U of G Alert notification system. Students are encouraged to register for alerts at uoguelph.ca/beprepared/u-of-g-alert.
Additionally, the university announced changes to its events framework to ensure proper compliance with COVID-19 regulations. For those looking to host an event, the updated framework provides information about the event approval process as well as important health and safety guidelines.
The Nov. 25 update also included information about vaccination requirements for visitors, volunteers, and contractors on campus. Anyone who does not attend the U of G but will be present on campus is required to provide proof that they have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19.
Visitors older than 12 years of age must disclose their vaccination status using the U of G COVID-19 screening form.
Volunteers and independent contractors, however, must upload vaccination documents directly to the University of Guelph Vaccination Proof and Exemption System.
Any contractors paid directly by the U of G, but who do not have central log-in credentials, are considered to be independent contractors. Corporate contractors, on the other hand, are responsible for ensuring that their employees are fully vaccinated as per the terms of the university’s Contractor COVID-19 Agreement.
The university also used the update to remind students that proof of vaccination will still be required for in-person learning on campus during the winter semester. Moreover, as we move into flu season, the university encourages students who are feeling unwell to stay home in order to keep the campus community healthy and safe.
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