COVID-19 Team Update: Face covering requirements at the Smithsonian

As newly-diagnosed COVID-19 cases continue to fall around the country, you may have noticed many states and localities, including Washington, D.C. and New York City, are beginning to drop their indoor mask mandates. These changes in local rules are not changing the Smithsonian’s current safety guidelines.

All staff and visitors, regardless of vaccination status, must continue to wear well-fitting, multi-layer face coverings inside of Smithsonian owned or leased properties. This requirement, along with practicing social distancing, taking the daily health screening, and staying home when sick, will remain in effect for the time being.

Following these safety guidelines, especially when combined with being fully vaccinated, offers the best protection from becoming ill with or spreading COVID-19. Additionally, we recommend all staff receive booster shots when eligible. To aid Occupational Health Services (OHS) in their contact tracing procedures, you may now report that you have received a booster shot by emailing a picture of your updated vaccination card to OHS at ohs-medicalreview@si.edu.

Extension of COVID-19 Administrative Leave

We are extending the Temporary COVID-19 Administrative Leave program that affords employees up to 8 hours (or one shift) per pay period of administrative leave to help employees manage dependent care and/or who are unable to work due to complications from COVID-19. This benefit will now be available through September 30, 2022.

Thank you for continuing to adhere to all of Smithsonian’s health and safety measures.

Stay safe, be well, and get vaccinated,
COVID-19 Response Team

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