Recovery FAQ

All Ames Laboratory staff must:

• complete COVID-19 safety training
• complete an initial health screening
• complete daily health checks, and 
• receive authorization from their supervisor to be on-site.

The return-to-work process is complicated, and depends on multiple factors, including:

• Approval/authorization by DOE
• Ensuring a safe work environment by requiring employees to complete training and health screenings, providing sufficient PPE and cleaning supplies, and having plans in place to provide physical distancing
• Controlling the rate of return of people by scheduling staggered staff return to help prevent virus spread and case uptick

The Laboratory never completely shut down; a few staff were required to maintain an on-site presence to ensure basic facility, research, and safety operations. To reduce the virus spread to the greatest extent possible, all other staff were directed to work-from-home (WFH), or if unable to WFH, were able to utilize paid administrative leave.

To be determined. The exterior building doors will remain locked until the Laboratory returns to normal operations.

Yes, the Laboratory will provide cloth face coverings to staff.

• N95s will only be provided to medical staff for viral protection
• N95s will be used for research and operations if required as part of AN APPROVED READINESS REVIEW ACTIVITY

The wearing of face coverings is mandatory in the following locations or situations while at Ames Laboratory:

• Any public or communal space (hallways and stairwells, restrooms, and vending areas)
• Shared offices when another person is present
• Open office spaces, including cubicles, break areas, and copy/supply areas
• When conducting a task where physical distance of six feet cannot be maintained

Face coverings will not be required in the following locations or situations:

• Individual offices with four enclosed walls.  Visitors and the office occupant must wear face coverings if physical distance cannot be maintained
• Conference rooms where physical distancing may be maintained during the meeting. Face covering use is required when moving to, from, and around the conference room. 
• A physical or mental condition that is exacerbated by wearing a face covering. Discuss options with your supervisor, and Occupational Medicine if needed.

Yes, as long as it is consistent with recommendations from Occupational Medicine or other official sources such as CDC, WHO, IDPH, etc.

Yes. 

Notify your supervisor via email or phone. Self-reporting COVID-19 to Ames Laboratory