EHRS COVID-19 Guidance for FRES, Housekeeping, New Bolton Center and Morris Arboretum & Gardens

Last Revised: January 25, 2024

This document provides guidance for protection against the SARS-CoV-2 virus exposure.

The virus is primarily spread:

  • Between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet).
  • Through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs.

Infection Prevention

Basic infection prevention measures should be followed, including:

  • Always wash your hands after removing gloves.
  • Maintain frequent and thorough handwashing, with soap and water when not wearing gloves.  If soap and water is not available, hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol can be used until there is access to soap and water.
  • Avoid touching your face.
  • Stay home if showing any symptoms (fever, cough, difficulty breathing). 

Specific Guidance

Penn personnel may have contact with high-touch surfaces in buildings, such as elevator buttons and door handles.  They enter a variety of spaces on campus.  These additional precautions should be implemented:

  • Stay 6 feet away from individuals in the buildings and co-workers.  Social distancing includes not riding in the same vehicle as co-workers and keeping 6 feet away in areas of congregation, such as at the time clocks, in shops and in breakrooms.    
  • Wear work-related personal protective equipment (PPE) as usual for tasks, including gloves and eye protection in labs. Follow attached guidelines for correct glove removal.
  • With direct contact with a high-touch surface, follow attached CDC guidelines for washing hands.
  • Wipe the following surfaces with EPA approved disinfectants as needed:
    • Shared vehicle surfaces, before and after use- steering wheel, seat buckle, door handle, gear shift and wiper knob, radio controls
    • Tools that may have been contaminated during use
    • Shop areas- non-porous table and chair surfaces, shared equipment (table saw, gas meters), toolboxes.

If you have any questions, please contact EHRS at 215-898-4453

 

References: