Frequently Asked Questions
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Is it safe to return to work?
We are taking every precaution to ensure our workplace is safe. We are following federal health and safety guidelines as well as guidance from our state and local governments. We are implementing practices such as employee health screenings and social distancing practices to keep our workplace healthy. We are requiring all employees to wear face coverings when in the presence of others (Regulation GBGB-R) and maintain at least 6 feet of social distancing when interacting in person with others.
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If I do not have childcare available, am I able to work from home?
Unfortunately, appropriate childcare plans must be made when you are asked to report back to work in person (March 15, 2021). The Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) expired in December 2020. Although our Governing Board extended coverage to include childcare through March 5, 2021, beyond that date, if you cannot secure childcare for your own children, you will need to use your own personal leave, and/or qualify for FMLA through the Talent Division.
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If I have a spouse or other person in our household who has a medical condition, would I be able to work from home?
At this time, employees must report to work on March 15, 2021. Unless you qualify for a telecommuting accommodation under ADA or unless you qualify for leave (based on the leave guidelines) you may not continue to telecommute. You should not only discuss your situation with your supervisor but also contact the Talent Division to determine your accommodations or leave options. Please note: Both will require medical documentation.
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If I have a person in our household who is in the critical category and I could infect them bringing home the virus, would I be able to work from home?
Same answer as the previous question.
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Do I have to answer medical questions when reporting to work?
All employees and visitors will be required to answer questions regarding COVID-19 symptoms before entering our sites. Individuals who refuse to answer health screening questions will not be permitted entry. Employees will be considered ‘absent’ in these circumstances and may be subject to disciplinary action. Please see your employee handbook/policies regarding the use of paid and unpaid leave for unexcused absences.
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Will there be daily temperature checks when reporting to work?
Yes, temperature checks are part of the daily health screening and required for everyone, prior to entering any of our campuses or sites.
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What should I do if I feel sick?
Employees who feel ill should notify their supervisor per reporting guidelines and not report to work. If you are already at work and begin feeling sick, you should notify your supervisor and go home immediately. Employees can utilize accrued paid-time-off hours and/or other paid leave that may be available. Contact the Talent Division for more information on available leave time.
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What if I can’t get to work?
It is likely that some employees will have to change their normal commuting practice. Using mass transit may not be an option or may be considered too risky for some. You should take steps now to identify all potential options for a safe commute, such as using a personal vehicle or ride-share services.
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Will I have to wear PPE all day? My concern is it isn’t very comfortable; and some have concerns regarding wearing glasses because they fog up.
Yes, a face covering will be required along with at least a distance of 6 feet between yourself and others. We strongly recommend wearing double masks as per the CDC.
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Will Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) be mandatory? Will it be enforced? Example: I wear PPE, but my co-workers don’t and expose me?
A face covering is mandatory along with maintaining at least 6 feet to appropriately social distance from another person (Regulation GBGB-R). An employee who refuses to wear a face covering may be subject to discipline. Gloves must be worn when using shared equipment or when an exchange of materials is taking place (i.e., laptop distribution, meal distribution, etc.).
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Will wipes, hand sanitizer and PPE be available for our daily use and made available to others in the building?
Yes.
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Are safety precautions being considered for TimeClock Plus (TCP) stations/biometrics?
Yes. Biometrics will temporarily not be required to clock in or out of TCP. You may continue to use your Employee ID number to clock in and out. However, we recommend that hourly employees use their District-issued TCP card. Employees are to clock in and out only for themselves. Any employee who is identified clocking in and out for someone else is subject to disciplinary action, including dismissal.
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Will social/physical distancing be required and enforced?
Yes, all staff should maintain the CDC recommended 6 feet distance between themselves and others. Signage will be posted, as well as the use of digital displays to remind employees to maintain appropriate distance (6 feet) and practice health and safety precautions.
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Will we continue to have in-person meetings?
We are encouraging meetings to be held in groups small enough to adhere to appropriate social distancing. When this is impossible due to space constrictions, we encourage utilizing the Microsoft TEAMS platform in order for employees to participate from their personal workspace.
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Will I be expected to work with others in close proximity or members of the community?
As in previous answers, the District will require social distancing and the use of PPE for all employees and visitors until CDC Guidelines change.
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Please visit our website, www.PXU.org for future updates.
Please continue to visit www.PXU.org/ReturnToWork for information and FAQs. If you have any questions, please contact Talent@PhoenixUnion.org.
For more knowledge about the coronavirus / COVID-19, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).