Research procedures and safety guidelines
Lab density
Consistent with New York State phasing, research activities have been reactivated in a phased approach with careful considerations. All approved research activities must abide by strict physical-distancing guidelines to reduce any possibility of spreading COVID-19 within the research community. There are also new guidelines for conducting research with human subjects, which include physical distancing and masking, to promote the safety of study subjects and researchers. Any research that can be done remotely must continue to be done remotely in order to keep building and office occupancy to a minimum.
Physical distancing guidelines
Physical distancing guidelines recommend separation distances of six feet or more. No more than one person per 250 square feet of lab space will be allowed in a lab at any one time. This corresponds to one person per bay for laboratories with a modern bay structure, or for a 600 square foot laboratory, only a maximum of two people should occupy the lab at a time. These limitations are essential to avoid over-crowding of public spaces in research buildings, and limit potential cross contamination in research spaces with individuals with COVID-19 who are asymptomatic. Lab procedures requiring more than one person in close proximity should be minimized as much as possible, and when necessary, additional PPE, including gloves and eye protection, should be worn. Shift schedules are used to maintain lab occupancy at acceptable levels to ensure physical distancing. Those working with hazardous chemicals or materials are encouraged not to work alone and not to work at off hours when fewer people are present.
Required PPE
Face masks and cleaning protocols
Surgical procedural face masks are required in all common areas (hallways, restrooms, break and eating areas) and while working in laboratories. Face masks must be worn in public and any time there is more than one person in a given space, including times of brief interaction between coworkers or friends, and anytime another person is within six feet. Personal and shared workspaces (desktop, keyboards, chairs, etc.) should be cleaned and disinfected before and after use. Office occupancy is limited to one person, and office work should be completed at home whenever possible. (Rare exceptions for higher occupancy of larger offices may be granted after review and approval by departmental administration to ensure that physical distancing can be maintained.)