OHIO asks employees to check temperature, consider health before coming to work

In accordance with recommendations from Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, Ohio University is asking employees to perform daily temperature monitoring prior to arriving at work until further notice in response to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

Routine monitoring of body temperature can aid in early detection of infectious disease and is an effective measure to prevent community spread. Additionally, we ask that employees reflect on their current health and well-being prior to coming to work.

If an employee has an elevated temperature or is not feeling well and exhibiting symptoms of illness, the employee should immediately notify their supervisor and stay home.

If the employee is eligible for and is able to perform meaningful work from home, the employee should continue this work and receive pay at the regular rate.

If the employee is unable to perform meaningful work while remaining home with illness and fever, they must utilize sick leave and/or other leave options. Employees should comply with reporting rules and maintain daily contact with supervisors to provide health updates and to inform of reporting status.

It is important to note that this is not a change in procedure. Ohio University recommends all employees who have an elevated temperature or are feeling ill, whether it is related to coronavirus or not, should stay home, for their own well-being and the well-being of their colleagues.

Recognizing that there may be a shortage in thermometers available, the University has ordered a small supply of thermometers to be made available to staff upon request. We will share additional details when we have received the thermometer supply.

We appreciate your cooperation related to this guidance, which can help stop the spread of COVID-19 and keep our community safe from infection.