Physical Distancing
Maintaining a distance of no fewer than six feet between you and others is key to minimizing the potential spread of the coronavirus and your exposure to it. People can spread the virus before they know they are sick, so it’s important to stay away from others.
The University has reduced room capacities in all university buildings. Maximum room capacities are posted on all classroom doors and common areas.
Masks/Cloth Facial Coverings
Masks/facial coverings are required in the following situations regardless of physical distance from others:
- While in all Clemson University buildings.
- When participating in all University programs held in non-University buildings or outdoor spaces on campus.
- When using University mass transit.
Masks/facial coverings are not required in the following situations:
- Alone in a private faculty/staff office space.
- When in a residential room. (Housing Policies)
- When outdoors but not within six feet of any others.
- While eating or drinking. (Dining Policies)
- Consuming food/beverage inside classrooms is not permitted.(Flexibility will be afforded depending upon medical needs.)
- Face coverings may be momentarily removed and quickly repositioned when eating or drinking in other university spaces permitting food and beverages.
Face Shields
In very limited circumstances, face shields may be used as a safe alternative to face coverings. In addition to specialized jobs (such as medical care providers or emergency responders), the use of a face shield may replace the use of a face mask in the following situations:
- Those seeking to communicate with the deaf or hard of hearing and for which the mouth needs to be visible. If available, a cloth face covering with a clear panel should be worn while communicating in this manner.
- Faculty and instructors who can maintain at least 6 feet of physical distancing. Before and after instruction, the face shield must be replaced by a cloth face covering. Professors working near podiums, desks, or other work surfaces should disinfect those areas after the class.
- Those with documented disabilities who cannot wear cloth face coverings may request accommodations. Students can contact Student Accessibility Services, and employees should contact the Office of Access and Equity.
Note: A mask or face shield is not a substitute for physical distancing.
Vaccine Update
Clemson continues its work with medical partners to facilitate the deployment of vaccines for students, faculty, and staff. The University has senior leadership representation on statewide vaccine task force groups at DHEC and state government. Clemson’s leadership is advocating for vaccine access for our faculty and staff, following the guidelines issued by DHEC.
Clemson has not yet received vaccines for distribution. When the University’s partners have determined logistics, information will be provided through official University channels.
Vaccines are strongly encouraged, and it is recommended you sign up whenever you have the opportunity to be vaccinated. Vaccine information changes quickly, so rely on official and verified sources to make decisions about your personal health and safety. SCEMD developed tips for verifying COVID-19 vaccine information.
Shared Vehicles
Follow these instructions while driving or riding in shared vehicles.
Handwashing
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after time in a public place, after blowing your nose, coughing, sneezing, or touching your face. If soap and water are not readily available, a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60 percent alcohol should be used. See the CDC’s When and How to Wash Your Hands.
Gloves
Depending on your work duties, gloves may be part of your Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Most team members do not use gloves for their assigned work duties, and gloves are not recommended in the prevention of coronavirus. According to the CDC, gloves are not necessary for general use and do not replace good hand hygiene. Washing your hands often is considered the best practice for everyday tasks.
For more information about work-related safety requirements during COVID-19, refer to the COVID-19 Guidance for Employees and Supervisors.
Cleaning and Disinfecting Protocols
Rigorous cleaning and disinfecting protocols will continue.
- All University classrooms and shared spaces will continue to be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized overnight.
- Disinfecting wipes are available to all students, staff, and faculty, with an additional supply of wipes located in every classroom.
- Instructors and students should continue to wipe down their personal work areas when entering a classroom or other space and should wipe the area down again before leaving.
COVID-19 Testing
A rigorous COVID-19 testing strategy will also continue. Details here.
Around the City and Surrounding Area
The City of Clemson has published its Amended Emergency Ordinance – Mandatory Face Coverings.