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OPWDD Emergency/Mandatory Face Coverings
EMPLOYEE NOTIFICATION
September 16, 2021
Good afternoon,

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced a series of universal mask requirements designed to protect New Yorkers against the highly contagious Delta variant and the recent surge in COVID-19 infections statewide. In conjunction, OPWDD has filed a new emergency rule that requires face coverings for all staff, volunteers, contractors, vendors, visitors, and individuals receiving services when in facilities or providing services that are certified or operated by OPWDD. The rule takes effect immediately. These requirements apply to anyone medically able to tolerate wearing a mask, regardless of vaccination status. Please click the button below to read the OPWDD emergency rule and minor exceptions.

Please contact clinical@springbrookny.org if you have any questions or concerns regarding the new mandate.

We appreciate your continued commitment and cooperation as we move forward together!
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
  • All employees, regardless of vaccination status or work location, are required to wear a mask while indoors & OUTDOORS, per OPWDD
  • All employees must wear masks while transporting students/residents in a Springbrook vehicle
  • Badges must be worn at all times by all staff while on-site at ANY Springbrook location (including homes, office buildings, and campuses)
  • You may be asked to show your badge while on the clock
  • You may ask to see badges of other staff to verify vaccination status
  • Unvaccinated employees began a required weekly COVID-19 testing protocol beginning on Tuesday, Sept 14
FULLY VACCINATED EMPLOYEES

  • May wear a mask of their choosing (cloth, surgical, or KN95)
  • May NOT remove masks when providing services outdoors
  • May remove masks indoors when working alone in an office
  • May take breaks and mealtimes outdoors with other fully vaccinated employees
  • Must maintain 6 ft distance from other employees during mealtimes/breaks when no outdoor option is available, and no private space is available
  • Remember, outdoor tents are available for use!
UNVACCINATED EMPLOYEES

  • Must wear KN95 masks on any Springbrook property (indoors and outdoors), office location, or Springbrook-operated home (on or off campus)
  • Must remain masked while outdoors
  • Must take breaks and mealtimes alone
  • May remove masks indoors when working alone in an office
  • Are required to complete weekly COVID-19 testing that began on Tues, Sept 14
PLEASE NOTE

  • People are fully vaccinated 2-weeks after their final dose of the COVID-19 vaccine
  • We are still providing a financial incentive for employees who receive their COVID-19 vaccination. Vaccination is the best way to protect yourself and the people you support from contracting the virus
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