COVID-19 Update: Everything you need to know about Phase 1 Reopening

We are grateful to everyone who has been working diligently to help reopen the Smithsonian. All units have submitted Phase 1 reopening plans, which were reviewed and approved. The Secretary has now determined that, with the important exception of our operations in Panama, units may begin to implement these plans.

Remember, each unit will enter Phase 1 based on its specific needs and situation. When your unit enters Phase 1, your unit director and/or supervisor will communicate that to you. For most staff, your day-to-day work experience will not change significantly. For those who are reporting to the workplace, take a moment to review the commonly asked questions and important reminders below.

Thank you for rising to the challenge as we navigate our new circumstances. Please continue to share questions, suggestions, and ideas with the COVID-19 Response Team and Reopening Task Force by emailing si-coronavirusinfo@si.edu. Please also engage your supervisors and your unit’s Emergency Operations Group (EOG) representatives with questions specific to your unit and team.

Should I report to the workplace in Phase 1?

Follow guidance from your unit. Do not change your work status until you hear directly from your supervisor and/or unit director. Supervisors and unit leadership will be able to help you understand how your role and job requirements may change throughout the phases of reopening.

What if I do not feel well, but am not sure if I am sick?

Last week, Secretary Bunch called on us to embrace a culture shift and protect the Smithsonian community by staying home if are sick or feel ill. Please take this to heart. The CDC has developed guidance to help you care for yourself and others in your home. Below are additional health resources:

Daily health screening

The Secretary has asked all of us to thoughtfully answer four health screening questions every day before coming to work. Make answering the questionnaire part of your daily routine. If you answer “yes” to any of the questions, reach out to your supervisor and do not come into the workplace.

COVID-19 Testing

Each state has different criteria for who can be tested. Follow this link for testing locations in most states where Smithsonian operates. Your healthcare provider can help you navigate testing requirements and procedures in your locality.

Reporting a positive case

Upon receiving a positive diagnosis or learning that one of your direct reports has been diagnosed, contact the COVID-19 Response Team at si-coronavirusinfo@si.edu. The Response Team will follow up and provide advice. Detailed instructions on reporting a positive diagnosis are provided here.

What is the Smithsonian doing to protect my health in the workplace?

Throughout reopening, additional risk mitigation measures will be implemented on-site. Some measures have already been put in place, while others are still being determined and tested. Central support offices, units, and individuals share responsibility for mitigating the risk of COVID-19. Here are specific measures you should practice:

Face coverings

All staff are currently required to wear cloth face coverings on Smithsonian owned and leased property, when entering and exiting a facility, and while in common spaces and shared workspaces. Remember, you might need a face covering to get to the office, and Metro requires all customers to wear face coverings on buses and trains.

Protecting yourself and others at work

This video explains how to social distance and take precautions in the workplace. The required training on workplace best practices, which has been assigned to all staff, provides guidance on proper hygiene, hand-washing, and social distancing techniques.

Cleaning strategies

Everyone accessing a common area must take personal responsibility to ensure workspaces are clean and properly disinfected. This video offers cleaning recommendations that will help promote a safe and healthy workplace. Additional guidelines are provided here. Requests for cleaning supplies and CPE, including face coverings, should be made through your unit’s EOG representative or safety coordinator.

Can I conduct business travel?

Please familiarize yourself with the Phase 1 and 2 travel guidance for mission-critical travel. Phase 1 will allow mission-critical travel only for the limited purposes and only with the approval of both your unit director and the COVID-19 Response Team Coordinating Officer.

What if I need to be quarantined or my unit changes course?

Be agile. As we have seen, circumstances can change quickly. If you are transitioning from telework to on-site work, consider how you might need to adapt if required to telework again. During Phases 1 and 2, keep in mind, there are a variety of workplace flexibility options available that management can consider based upon an employee’s specific circumstances and the needs of the unit.

Thank you for help in keeping yourself, your colleagues and our community safe.

The COVID-19 Response Team
si-coronavirusinfo@si.edu

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