University emergency closure policy reminder
With winter weather approaching, Ohio University Human Resources has announced the University's policy on emergency closings.
University Policy 40.051 provides that only the president or his designee has the authority to officially close the University.
Questions regarding regional campus operations should be referred to the appropriate regional campus dean.
Compensation for employees will follow the guidelines established in the policy listed above in the event of an “official closing.” Employees covered by a collective bargaining agreement should refer to their agreement. There are specific instructions about the process for paying employees during a weather emergency [PDF].
In all other bad weather conditions short of an emergency closing, including weather that causes cancellation of classes, the expectation is that employees report for duty as assigned. However, supervisors should develop departmental guidelines to excuse individuals’ attendance if circumstances warrant and are supported by operational needs.
In such situations, time missed can be replaced through the use of the following:
- Personal time (see Policy 40.027 or Policy 40.028)
- Compensatory time (see Policy 40.049)
- Vacation time (see Policy 41.001)
At least yearly, departments must determine which positions are essential and then notify the staff in these positions that they are considered essential and, as such, are required to report to work during an emergency closure of the University.
Essential employees are permitted to drive directly between work and home only. The privilege to drive on a closed road only pertains to Level 3 snow emergencies. The privilege does not permit essential employees to drive on roads closed due to flooding, downed power lines, accidents, etc.
Employees should ask their supervisors if they have any questions about these procedures.
If you are uncertain about the status of an event planned on your campus, please contact the event organizer(s) directly.
The University will post important information about weather emergencies on the OHIO Alert page. Sign up to receive University emergency notifications.