Brock University will implement a masking requirement in all instructional spaces this September as it prepares to welcome students back to campus for in-person learning.
Beginning Tuesday, Sept. 6, masks will be required in all instructional spaces, including classrooms, lecture halls, seminars, teaching labs and other spaces when instruction is taking place.
All masks worn must be medical grade, a decision reached in consultation with the Brock University Faculty Association and other stakeholders. Fabric face coverings such as buffs, gaiters and bandanas do not satisfy the masking policy requirement at Brock.
Medical masks are also required in shared research space, as outlined in the relevant section of the Brock University Coronavirus FAQ.
The University will provide medical masks, including KN95s, to all staff and faculty who want them.
The use of masks is strongly recommended everywhere on campus, especially when maintaining distance from others is not possible.
“The health and well-being of our community remains our top priority as we prepare for a full return to campus this fall,” says interim President and Vice-Chancellor Lynn Wells. “After years of pandemic-related restrictions, we know that students are looking forward to a meaningful on-campus experience. By taking these extra measures, we can help protect both public health and the exceptional Brock experience for our incoming and returning students.”
Vaccination
Brock’s vaccination requirement remains paused; however, the community is strongly encouraged to stay up to date with their COVID-19 vaccinations. Vaccination is the best defence against COVID-19.
The GO-VAXX mobile COVID-19 vaccination clinic will be located in Brock’s East Academic parking lot from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 3 and Monday, Oct. 3 for those who wish to obtain vaccines on campus.
Students, faculty, staff and anyone from the wider community wishing to get vaccinated can book an appointment beginning four days in advance of the clinic date at 8 a.m. This can be done on the provincial booking website or by calling the Provincial Vaccine Contact centre at 1-833-943-3900.
Walk-in appointments will also be welcomed while supplies last.
Ventilation
Brock has taken a number of steps to enhance the air quality in all University buildings, including:
- Installing high-performance, surgical-grade filters in areas across campus, changed on a schedule to exceed performance standards for classrooms and other non-surgical spaces.
- Investing in industrial air purifiers for classrooms and teaching labs.
- Monitoring air changes (how many times the volume of air is changed in a space in an hour) with the goal of maintaining six per hour.
- Implementing overrides in various areas and systems to maintain increased fresh air volumes to indoor spaces.
Daily screening
All those visiting campus – including students, faculty, staff and guests – should complete a COVID-19 self-assessment prior to arrival.
If you feel unwell, do not come to campus
Members of the Brock community and visitors are asked to be vigilant and to self-monitor closely for COVID-19 symptoms. If you are feeling unwell, experiencing symptoms or have tested positive for COVID-19, do not come to campus. Please follow the self-isolation guidance provided by Niagara Region Public Health.