After more than a year of public health restrictions required by the COVID-19 pandemic, the University of Utah is actively planning for a phased return to in-person learning and services for fall semester. When the coronavirus spread throughout Utah and the rest of the U.S. in spring 2020, campus leaders put in place several policies that will return to pre-pandemic status in the coming weeks.
Masks and physical distancing
Last week the CDC updated its guidelines for individuals who have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19. In accordance with those guidelines and recent state legislation, masks and face coverings will no longer be required at University of Utah facilities beginning Monday, May 24. Please note that masks will continue to be required inside University of Utah Health facilities. In addition, all job-related personal protective equipment (PPE) safety requirements will continue to be required consistent with best practices for worker safety.
Travel restrictions
The university’s restrictions on domestic business travel and required administration approval will lift on June 30. International travel will still require a senior vice president’s approval.
Departmental Travel Arrangers are encouraged to take refresher training on the UTravel Concur travel system prior to booking travel arrangements. More information is available via the Travel Tidbits news blog.
Hiring freeze
The temporary hiring freeze announced last spring will lift on June 30. For more information, please contact your department’s Human Resources representative.
Restrictions on large purchases (over $100,000)
Beginning July 1, vice presidential approval will no longer be required for purchases over $100,000. For more information, contact the Purchasing Office.
Telecommuting and accommodations
University leaders will host a town hall on Monday, May 17 to discuss telecommuting and other HR-related issues. All units, departments and colleges are asked to complete assessments of employee work requirements by June 4. For additional guidance, visit the university’s Human Resources Work Reimagined website.
Event planning and facility rental
University facilities—including the Eccles Alumni House, Rice Eccles Stadium, and Red Butte Garden—reopened for weddings, retreats and other gatherings beginning in May. New guidance, effective May 21, for in-person gatherings in university facilities (including time limits, participant numbers, spacing and face masks) is posted online.
Continued COVID-19 testing and vaccination
The university will continue providing free, weekly asymptomatic COVID-19 testing and a vaccination clinic on campus throughout the summer. Vaccinations are available for all members of the community (including friends and family of university faculty, staff and students) and can be scheduled online.