Covid-19—Masks and Social Distance are Still Necessary
It has been 47 weeks since we had to start to wear masks and stay at least 6 feet apart from each other. It has been tough, but we have been mostly successful.
However, there is still community transmission and some of our colleagues have still gotten infected. We still need to wear masks in all spaces at UW, whether you are in the halls, procedure rooms, break rooms, and yes, even bathrooms.
Follow your unit’s COVID-19 Prevention Plan for the Workplace. If you have not already done so, watch the lesson Covid-19 Requirements within DCM. If you suspect you have any symptoms stay home and contact your supervisor.
Be Safe in Breakrooms and Eating Spaces
Eating and drinking, as unmasked activities, present a higher risk for exposure to COVID-19. EH&S has published new guidance to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in eating spaces (PDF) managed by University units.
Request Your Help with IACUC Semi-Annual Inspections in Vivarium Locations
For those who have research/experiment locations in the vivariums, it would be beneficial if someone from the lab is present to help answer questions and have logs accessible for controlled drugs, space and equipment.
EH&S Sharps Safety Web Page
Injuries involving sharps are among the most commonly reported injuries at the University. EH&S has developed an online resource to assist researchers and support staff to reduce the risk of accidents and injuries before, during and after procedures involving needles and other sharps. The Sharps Safety page lists recommendations for eliminating sharps from procedures and substituting for safer sharps devices.
EH&S Sharps Safety Best Practices.
Work Safety with Sharps Handout (PDF).
Virtual BRAD Event on April 15th
Americans for Medical Progress (AMP) will host a virtual Biomedical Research Awareness Day (BRAD) event this spring on April 15th. They are collecting personal stories about diseases or medical conditions that have directly impacted your life or that of a loved one, human or animal. We encourage those who want to participate to submit a photo along with their story. Prizes are involved for institutions and individuals.
Visit the BRAD Global Website for more information.