Dear UFV colleague,
As we head into the final week of September, I hope you’re enjoying being back on campus and seeing friends, students, and colleagues. It’s been wonderful and energizing to have the University come back to life with your return.
I want to reassure you that UFV’s main focus and our continued priority is your health and safety.
Health measures taken:
The UFV vaccination survey completed on September 10 indicates 90% of those who responded (5604 people) are fully or partially vaccinated. On top of this high vaccination rate, and alongside all Provincial Health Orders, UFV has implemented these additional measures:
- Mask safety zones established – two-meter zones at the front of classrooms where faculty can temporarily remove masks while teaching have been established. Clear barriers are installed if two meters of distance is not possible. See details here.
- Mandatory mask requirement upheld – masks are mandatory in all indoor public spaces – including classrooms at UFV. Please remember to wear your mask so it covers both your mouth and your nose. See the details of when and where you need to have your mask on here.
- Mandatory mask requirement extended – as above, masks will be required in all indoor public spaces and, as an added layer of protection, UFV will extend this measure until the end of the academic semester.
- Voice amplification technology available – A process has been established for faculty members to obtain a voice amplification system. Learn more about the various ways to obtain a device here.
- Air quality audit performed – continuous air quality monitoring by UFV and baseline testing by an independent third party contractor both indicate the air in our buildings far out-performs the quality levels demanded by WorkSafe BC and ASHRAE. In addition, systems recirculating air in buildings are equipped with MERV13 filters – the standard recommended by WorkSafe BC and others to reduce bacteria and virus particles in the air. Read more about these systems here.
- Checklist for COVID cases – A quick reference guide on what to do if someone (student or colleague) in your area has tested positive for COVID. Please remember medical information must be kept confidential. Checklist available here.
As we continue the fall term, please know UFV is in constant dialogue with Fraser Health, the Province, and the Provincial Health Office and we will keep you informed of measures the University is taking to help keep you and our community safe.
We strongly encourage those who have not yet been vaccinated to register today. There are many clinics in our region.
Thank you for all you are doing to deliver education in these unusual and ever-changing circumstances.
Sincerely,
Dr. Joanne MacLean
President and Vice-Chancellor