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Chapter 46 – COVID-19 Prevention Program

Published on by Heather Madison.

NOTE: Please refer to covid.lbl.gov for the most current COVID-19 requirements and information. Specific safety protocols are found at https://ehs.lbl.gov/coronavirus/.

Contents

Approved by Laurel Davis
Revised May, 2023

46.1 Policy Overview, Scope and Applicability
46.2 Roles and Responsibilities
46.3 Definitions
46.4 Onsite COVID-19 Prevention
46.5 COVID-19 Requirements for Vehicle Use
46.6 Business Travel-related COVID-19 Requirements for LBNL Workers
46.7 COVID-19-related Requirements for Affiliates, Users, Vendors, Subcontractors, and Visitors Coming to LBNL
46.8 Response to Onsite COVID-19 Infection or Outbreaks
46.9 COVID-19 Prevention on LBNL Shuttles
46.10 Source Documents
46.11 References

Note:
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đźš©    Denotes the beginning of changed text within a section

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NOTE: Please refer to covid.lbl.gov for the most current COVID-19 requiremets and information. Specific safety protocols are found at https://ehs.lbl.gov/coronavirus/.

46.1 Policy Overview, Scope, and Applicability

Consistent with LBNL policy, two principles guide behavior during the COVID-19 response:

  • Make personal safety and the safety of members of the LBNL community the highest priorities through demonstrated COVID-19 prevention behaviors, and
  • Practice upstander behaviors by engaging in respectful intervention, dialogue, and understanding when holding others accountable to health and safety guidelines.

This document serves as LBNL policy and guidance regarding COVID-19 prevention. It applies to the following activities:

  • Employees, affiliates, and users (“LBNL workers”) performing onsite work at LBNL
  • LBNL workers performing work during the course and scope of conducting official business travel, and
  • Affiliates, users, vendors, subcontractors (construction and nonconstruction), and visitors.

This policy does not apply to teleworking, commuting, or personal travel. COVID-19 prevention in these cases is a personal responsibility, as is isolation or quarantining when close contact to a COVID-19 case has or may have occurred under such circumstances. LBNL workers returning from personal travel are expected to follow the State of California travel recommendations and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) travel guidelines for testing, use of face coverings or masks, and quarantine.

The LBNL Work Planning & Control (WPC) program will serve as the primary means for identifying hazards and applying associated COVID-19 controls, as applicable, to protect LBNL workers; line management may opt to include certain affiliates and users in WPC, unless covered by a user facility’s work planning/control process (e.g., ESAF, BASE JHA). The Subcontractor Job Hazards Analysis (SJHA) system will typically be used to communicate LBNL COVID-19 policy, and other hazards and controls to nonconstruction subcontractor and vendor personnel who are performing onsite, hands-on work. Construction subcontractors use the Site Specific Safety Plan (SSSP) and associated Job Hazard Analysis documents to address COVID-19, and other hazards and controls. See section 46.7 for more information.

Additional information about COVID-19 is available at several LBNL COVID-19 websites. See Section 46.4.

This Policy includes COVID-19 prevention measures developed by LBNL in consideration of requirements set forth by local, state, and Federal government agency requirements or guidance. It is subject to change as pandemic status and government agency guidance or requirements change. For the most up-to-date information, check the LBNL COVID-19 website and the EHS Division COVID-19 website.

NOTE: Please refer to covid.lbl.gov for the most current COVID-19 requirements and information. Specific safety protocols are found at https://ehs.lbl.gov/coronavirus/.

46.2 Roles and Responsibilities

The following roles and responsibilities are specific to the COVID-19 response. Broader descriptions of LBNL institutional roles and responsibilities can be reviewed in Chapter 1 of the LBNL ES&H Manual.

RoleResponsibilities
Activity LeadReviews onsite and travel-related COVID-19 hazards and controls for LBNL staff, affiliates, users, and subcontractors and vendors (as applicable). Identifies potential COVID-19 hazards and specific controls in their work and includes them in the work Activities in WPC.
Chief Operating Officer and designeeReviews and approves qualifying levels of travel.
Division ManagementEnsures that work conducted during the course and scope of LBNL business is conducted in accordance with LBNL COVID-19 prevention requirements. Conducts periodic inspections to identify unsafe conditions and work practices related to COVID-19 and correct the hazards when identified.
Division Safety Coordinator (DSC)
Reviews or develops COVID-related Work Planning & Control Activities. DSCs are the principal health and safety consultants within each LBNL division or area.
Environment, Health and Safety Division (EHS)
The Environment, Health and Safety Division helps LBNL line management and its workers perform their work safely during the COVID-19 pandemic. EHS subject matter experts provide COVID-related guidance to line operations regarding environment, health and safety issues, practices, and program implementation. Reviews applicable orders and guidance from the State of California, DOE, CDC, and the local health departments related to COVID-19 hazards and prevention. Manages legally-required reporting, and updates this policy as applicable.
Health Services
Conducts contact tracing, COVID-19 case investigation and response, and provides instructions for COVID testing for LBNL workers with potential close contact to a COVID-19 case. Health Services is also responsible for reporting COVID cases to the appropriate entity and keeping records of these cases.
WorkersUnderstand COVID-19 prevention precautions and comply with LBNL policy.

46.3 Definitions

Terms used in this policy are defined in Appendix A.

NOTE: Please refer to covid.lbl.gov for the most current COVID-19 requirements and information. Specific safety protocols are found at https://ehs.lbl.gov/coronavirus/.

46.4 Onsite COVID-19 Prevention

A. General

LBNL’s COVID-19 prevention program implements a combination of administrative controls, personal protection, and engineering controls. Additional guidance is available on the LBNL COVID-19 website and the EHS Division COVID-19 website.

COVID-19 is an infectious disease that has killed hundreds of thousands of people in the United States and tens of thousands in California. It can be spread through the air when an infectious person talks or vocalizes, sneezes, coughs, or exhales. An infectious person may have no symptoms. Particles containing the virus can travel more than six feet, especially indoors, so physical distancing, face coverings, increased ventilation indoors, and respiratory protection decrease the spread of COVID-19, but are most effective when used in combination. COVID-19 may be transmitted when a person touches a contaminated object and then touches their eyes, nose, or mouth, although that is less common.

Vaccination is the best protection against the SARS CoV-2 virus, which causes COVID-19. The Lab’s vaccination policy has changed and now requires all Lab employees, regardless of work location, and all affiliates accessing Lab facilities to receive a full COVID-19 vaccine series, including booster when eligible, or to decline vaccination based on limited exceptions. To complete this requirement, visit https://clinic.lbl.gov to complete the COVID Booster Declaration questionnaire.

Berkeley Labs top priority is the health and safety of our people, and the Lab has been very successful in minimizing the risk of COVID transmission on site. Maintaining this very low transmission risk depends on every employee and affiliate following the Lab’s COVID safety protocols and requirements. All LBNL workers are responsible for helping ensure a safe workplace during the COVID-19 pandemic. Observing conditions in working environments and common areas by all workers is encouraged, and a means of providing feedback has been established. LBNL workers may, without fear of reprisal, use the LBNL Return to Work Feedback form to advise management of issues (and/or provide suggestions for COVID-19 prevention improvements) when local COVID-19 related issues cannot be immediately resolved.

B. Summary of COVID-19 Prevention Controls

In alignment with Integrated Safety Management principles, LBNL conducts workplace evaluations to identify tasks or activities that may potentially expose workers to COVID-19 hazards due to proximity to others, use of shared equipment, or other factors. The controls outlined in the COVID-19 Safety Protocols have been developed to minimize risk and are in alignment with local, state, and federal requirements and guidelines. LBNL management will conduct ongoing inspections of workplace conditions and work practices. Controls, work practices, and workplace conditions will be modified or corrected as needed to ensure continued safety of personnel and compliance with this policy.

COVID-19 prevention controls are mandatory for LBNL workers while working on site (including satellite locations) or when conducting business-related travel. These controls are also found in Work Planning & Control (WPC) associated with relevant COVID-19 hazards, which are selected when creating work activities. When requirements change, the WPC system is updated and the changes will be automatically reflected on affected work activities. COVID-19 prevention controls are summarized in the COVID-19 Safety Protocols found on the EHS COVID-19 website. Details on the controls, including possible exceptions, are outlined below.

C. Detailed Information on COVID-19 Prevention Controls

  1. Access to LBNL and its Satellite Locations
    1. Only approved visits to LBNL worksites are permitted. You must obtain approval from your supervisor and/or Division to come onto the LBNL site or any of the satellite locations.
    2. Only enter buildings and spaces that you are authorized to enter.
  2. Symptom Check
    1. Complete the LBNL COVID-19 Symptom Check weekly and monitor for symptoms daily.
    2. Report to your supervisor, without fear of reprisal, if you have COVID-19 symptoms, possible close contact to a COVID-19 case, or possible COVID-19 hazards at the workplace.
    3. Do not come to LBNL if you are displaying any symptoms of COVID-19, including fever (greater than or equal to 100 degrees Fahrenheit), chills, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fatigue, muscle or body ache, headache, new loss of taste or smell, sore throat, congestion or runny nose, and/or nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
      1. Contact Health Services at 510-486-6266 for guidance and contact your supervisor.
      2. Health Services will advise on requirements related to staying away from work (isolation or quarantine) and when – and under what conditions – workers may return to work. More information is in section 46.8.
  3. Face Coverings/Face Masks
    1. Effective March 9, 2022, face coverings or masks are no longer required to be worn in most situations at the Lab. Per guidance from the Department of Energy, the requirement to wear face coverings or masks is driven by the CDC COVID-19 Community Level in the local area.
    2. Even when Community Levels are LOW or MEDIUM, face coverings remain required in the following situations:
      1. Inside health care facilities, such as Building 26 Health Services.
      2. On public transit (such as the Lab Shuttle) and in transportation hubs.
      3. For any on-site employee who has not received the influenza vaccination, face coverings are required – for the duration of the flu season – when indoors. Face coverings are also required for these individuals when outdoors and less than 6 feet from others. This is irrespective of COVID-19 vaccination status and applies even if COVID-19 face covering requirements are loosened.

        Details related to face covering requirements are outlined in the COVID-19 Safety Protocols and in the Face Covering Guidance document. All of these documents may be found on the EHS COVID-19 website.
    3. Even when not required, use of face coverings or masks is encouraged for those who want to wear them.
    4. When face coverings are required, one of the following options must be worn:
      1. N95 respirator without exhalation valves (request one following this process)
      2. KN95 or KF94 mask
      3. Surgical-type mask
      4. Cloth face covering worn over a surgical-type mask (double-masking)
      5. Filtered cloth face covering (tightly woven)
    5. When wearing a face covering, ensure that it covers both mouth and nose. A face covering has no visible holes or openings, such as exhalation valves. A face covering does not include a scarf, ski mask, balaclava, bandana, turtleneck, collar, or any unfiltered single or double layer of fabric. More details on face coverings, including when and how to wear them is found in the Face Covering Guidance document located on the EHS COVID-19 website.
    6. When face coverings are required, the following exceptions apply:
      1. Face coverings may be removed when alone in a room and the door is closed.
      2. Face coverings may be removed to actively eat and drink as long as other people are at least 6 feet away.
      3. Workers who may be hearing-impaired or need to communicate with the hearing-impaired and use facial and mouth movements as part of communication may remove face coverings for the purposes of this communication.
      4. Exemptions from face covering requirements may be granted by EHS with proper evaluation and documentation.
    7. All individuals may request face coverings from their supervisor or Building Manager. In addition to the Lab-provided disposable surgical-type masks, supervisors and Building Managers may purchase other types of face coverings to best meet the needs of their staff.
    8. All individuals may wear a face covering if they choose to do so, without fear of retaliation, even in situations where it may not be required.
      1. Workers who are fully vaccinated should wear a Lab-issued lanyard that indicates they have been fully vaccinated. This will make it easier to recognize when physical distancing and face covering requirements need to be implemented by others.
  4. Physical Distancing
    1. To the extent possible, workers should optimize telework.
    2. Physical distancing requirements are based on vaccination status and are outlined in the COVID-19 Safety Protocols found on the EHS COVID-19 website.
  5. Respirators
    1. Respirators – such as N95 and half-mask elastomeric respirators – provide more protection than face coverings and will be provided, upon request, to LBNL workers to wear instead of face coverings. The Lab encourages not fully vaccinated workers to consider this additional protection.
    2. Respirators are required if not fully vaccinated individuals must work within 6 feet of other people for more than 15 minutes in a 24 hour period. Fully vaccinated workers may also request respirators to wear in these circumstances, but it is no longer required.
      1. This does not include those situations where people are momentarily less than 6 feet from each other such as passing in the hall or on a stairway or handing something to another person. Examples include:
        1. Transferring materials to another worker
        2. Pointing out an object or process point
        3. Viewing a result or indicator
        4. Confirming proper set-up prior to implementing work.
    3. For the most current information, refer to the Protocol A and Protocol B Face Covering and Respirator Policy messages, found on the EHS COVID-19 website.
  6. Handwashing and Hand Sanitizing
    1. LBNL provides handwashing facilities throughout its buildings. For situations where handwashing facilities may not be readily accessible, LBNL provides hand sanitizer to onsite workers in various locations throughout the buildings. Contact your Building Manager if you need hand sanitizer. Click here for more information about hand sanitizer products.
      1. Hand sanitizer containing methanol (i.e., methyl alcohol) is prohibited due to significant safety concerns.
    2. Hand sanitizer must be provided inside government vehicles and LBNL shuttle buses. All workers must sanitize hands before entering and after exiting the vehicle.
    3. Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for 20 seconds. Click here for a short how-to video. If soap and water are not available, use hand sanitizer. The use of powered air hand dryers is not permitted.
    4. Avoid touching your face.
    5. Avoid touching commonly touched surfaces if possible. If you touch these surfaces, wash your hands or use sanitizer afterwards.
  7. Cleaning and Disinfecting
    1. LBNL provides spray cleaner, paper towels, and wipes throughout its buildings. Contact your Building Manager if you need cleaning products.
    2. Regularly clean commonly touched surfaces in your immediate work area (desktop, keyboard, mouse, phone, etc.). Click here for more information on cleaning, including suggested products.
    3. Clean commonly touched surfaces in government vehicles and shuttle buses. Clean surfaces touched by drivers between users.
    4. Facilities Division Custodial Services provides additional cleaning of restrooms, kitchens, and high touch surfaces. Details are found here.
    5. The Facilities Division will use enhanced disinfecting procedures for areas, materials, and equipment (including government vehicles) used by COVID-19 cases (or suspected cases) when it has been determined to be warranted. Typically, this is within 24 hours of when a COVID-19 case was present during the high-risk exposure period.
  8. Shared Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
    1. Standard practice recommends that individuals avoid sharing PPE that comes into contact with skin (e.g., face shields). If you must do so, clean the PPE before and after use. Click here for more information on cleaning PPE, including suggested products.
  9. Shared Spaces
    1. COVID-19 related capacity limits and occupancy requirements are no longer applicable.
    2. When not fully vaccinated workers need to share spaces with other people, they must consider their ability to maintain 6 foot physical distancing from all other individuals. If distancing cannot be maintained, they must either (1) avoid entering the space or (2) wear an approved respirator as required in section 4 above.
    3. It is a good practice for all workers who may share a space to communicate with each other about COVID-19 prevention controls and to be mindful of maintaining distancing between not fully vaccinated workers and others in the area.
  10. Engineering Controls
    1. LBNL continues to operate and maintain building HVAC systems as designed and in accordance with code requirements for the minimum percentage of outside air. Where feasible, the amount of outside air will be maximized. The percentage of outside air may be temporarily reduced under conditions where wildfire smoke is a concern.
    2. LBNL will employ additional measures such as opening windows or doors or providing portable air purifiers to increase the effectiveness of ventilation within a space, if warranted.
    3. Request a Space Evaluation if there are concerns about the ventilation in a given space.
  11. Training
    1. All teleworkers must take EHS 0054 Ergonomics Telework Training.
    2. All LBNL workers coming on site must take:
      1. LBL 0012 Working Safely at LBNL During the COVID-19 Pandemic.
      2. Employee training status can be reviewed by Activity in the LBNL Work Planning & Control system. See the LBNL Training website for additional information.
  12. COVID-19 Surveillance
    1. Weekly COVID-19 testing is required for not fully vaccinated workers.
      1. Once a worker declares they are not fully vaccinated in the Occupational Health Record portal, they will be enrolled in weekly testing.
      2. Testing is free of charge and provided by LBNL. Only COVID testing provided through the Laboratory is acceptable for those in Protocol B who are required to get weekly testing. More information on COVID testing here.
    2. When a not fully vaccinated worker is overdue for weekly testing, an email reminder will be sent to them. In addition, supervisors can obtain a report that shows when Protocol B workers are due for COVID testing. This report is available at clinic.lbl.gov under Supervisors Reports.
    3. COVID-19 testing will also be provided at no cost and during paid time as follows:
      1. Symptomatic not fully vaccinated employees, regardless of whether there is a known exposure. Do not come onsite; contact Health Services at 510-486-6266.
      2. All employees who had a close contact in the workplace.
      3. All employees within an exposed group in an outbreak. See section 46.8 for more information.

D. Additional Information
Additional COVID-19 prevention resources have been developed for LBNL workers and managers. These include:

  1. Human Resources COVID-19 information
  2. Information Technology COVID-19 Telework information
  3. Facilities COVID-19 information
  4. Travel Services COVID-19 information

NOTE: Please refer to covid.lbl.gov for the most current COVID-19 requirements and information. Specific safety protocols are found at https://ehs.lbl.gov/coronavirus/.

46.5 COVID-19 Requirements for Vehicle Use

A. Introduction

LBNL workers may have occasion to share vehicles during the course and scope of conducting business. This can include sharing government vehicles for travel between LBNL buildings and sites, as well as to off-site locations. Business travel may also involve sharing of vehicles at various points throughout a trip; this may include taxis, ride-shares (e.g., Uber, Lyft, etc.) and other forms of public transportation. During the COVID-19 response, approval to share vehicles is based on vaccination status.

This section does not apply to:

  • Riding the LBNL shuttle. Refer to section 46.9 for information about the LBNL shuttle.
  • Commuting between home and a Lab site. How individuals commute is a personal choice, but the Lab encourages not fully vaccinated individuals to minimize risk by commuting alone or only with members of one’s household. See the Commuter Guidance document on the EHS COVID-19 website for tips on minimizing exposure while commuting.

B. Fully Vaccinated Individuals

  1. Always monitor for symptoms prior to sharing vehicles.
  2. Fully vaccinated individuals may share vehicles with other fully vaccinated individuals. This includes private vehicles, rental vehicles, and government vehicles.
    1. Face coverings are not required when others are present.
    2. Cleaning commonly touched surfaces between riders and drivers is recommended.
    3. Use hand sanitizer, which must be provided inside government vehicles.
    4. Increasing ventilation by opening windows or using the non-recirculation mode is recommended.
  3. Fully vaccinated individuals may also ride in taxis, ride-shares, and other forms of public transportation, either alone or with other fully vaccinated individuals.
    1. Face coverings are required when riding in public transportation.
    2. Use of hand sanitizer is recommended before and after riding.
    3. Increase ventilation by opening windows or using the non-recirculation mode, especially when using taxis, ride-shares, or other vehicles since the driver’s vaccination status may not be known.
  4. While expected to be rare, if sharing vehicles with not fully vaccinated individuals is approved, the fully vaccinated individuals must follow the requirements for not fully vaccinated individuals below, with the exception of requesting respirators to wear in place of face coverings.

C. Not Fully Vaccinated Individuals

  1. In general, not fully vaccinated individuals may not share vehicles with other individuals, unless they are members of the same household.
    1. Exceptions to vehicle sharing may be approved by the Division Director when no other transportation alternatives are feasible.
  2. If approval to share vehicles is granted, the following requirements apply:
    1. Always monitor for symptoms prior to sharing vehicles.
    2. Not fully vaccinated workers must wear face coverings and are encouraged to request respirators to wear instead of face coverings, since respirators provide better protection.
    3. Use hand sanitizer, which must be provided inside government vehicles.
    4. Cleaning commonly touched surfaces in between riders and drivers is required.
    5. Vehicle windows must be kept open, and the ventilation system set to maximize outdoor air and not set to recirculate air. Windows do not have to be kept open if one or more of the following conditions exist:
      1. The vehicle has functioning air conditioning in use and excessive outdoor heat would create a hazard to occupants.
      2. The vehicle has functioning heating in use and excessive outdoor cold would create a hazard to occupants.
      3. Protection is needed from weather conditions.
      4. The vehicle has a cabin air filter in use and the U.S. EPA Air Quality Index for any pollutant is greater than 100.

NOTE: Please refer to covid.lbl.gov for the most current COVID-19 requirements and information. Specific safety protocols are found at https://ehs.lbl.gov/coronavirus/.

46.6 Business Travel-related COVID-19 Requirements for LBNL Workers

NOTE: Travel requirements can frequently change. LBNL’s requirements are based on the CDC, but additional LBNL and DOE requirements apply. For the most current requirements, please review the online version of the Lab’s COVID-19 Protocols for LBNL Travel.

A. Introduction

LBNL workers may have occasion to conduct business-related travel during the course and scope of conducting business. Business travel may include travel from LBNL, to LBNL, between two non-LBNL locations, or some other origin/destination combination. During the COVID-19 response, individuals are expected to practice established COVID-19 prevention practices throughout the business travel period, which typically involves personal contacts, vehicle/aircraft transportation, dining, and lodging.

In general, LBNL is following CDC travel guidance for all business-related travel, regardless of origin or destination. LBNL workers who are not fully vaccinated are strongly discouraged from traveling to or from domestic or international destinations and travel is limited to mission-critical needs.  The decision to authorize an LBNL worker who is not fully vaccinated to conduct business-related domestic or international travel rests with line management.

B. Travel Authorization

For Protocol B individuals, business travel authorization during COVID-19 requires a WPC activity, approval from the Chief Operating Officer’s office, and — in some cases — approval from DOE. The WPC Process for Traveling During COVID-19 has specific expectations, firm deadlines, and is subject to change. For Protocol A individuals, these approvals and the WPC requirement no longer apply.

In addition, all travel (both Protocol A and Protocol B travelers) must be planned, approved, and conducted in accordance with LBNL’s RPM Travel Policy and Reference Guide. Refer to the LBNL Travel Services requirements found at Know Before You Go for current information on travel requirements and travel authorization.

C. Risk Determination

The decision to initiate business travel should take into consideration

(a) the necessity to travel (versus teleconferencing or deferring to a later date),
(b) the nature of interactions with other people at the destination(s),
(c) the vaccination status of the traveler, and
(d) the COVID-19 infection rate(s) and COVID-19 community levels at the destination(s) since infection rates vary and may rise during outbreaks.

To assist in decision-making, management must review CDC’s travel guidance, which includes advice on when NOT to travel, COVID-19 risk at domestic and international travel destinations, safe travel tips, quarantine requirements, and more. Additional information on COVID-19 infection rates at domestic and international destinations can be found on the STAT news COVID-19 Tracker website.

D. Controls Applicable to All Travelers for All Destinations

  1. All LBNL workers are required to do the following:
    1. Follow the Lab’s COVID-19 Protocols while traveling and at the destination and/or host location. When local requirements differ, the more stringent requirements will apply. This includes any face covering or masking requirements in effect at LBNL.
    2. Follow CDC masking (face covering) requirements when on public transit and in transportation hubs. These are outlined on the CDC Travel website. Note that N95 respirators are available for those who wish to wear them.
    3. If sharing vehicles or accommodations during travel, follow requirements outlined in section H.
    4. Self-monitor for symptoms before, during, and after travel. If experiencing any symptoms, isolate and contact Health Services at 510-486-6266 for guidance.
    5. Do NOT travel if you are sick, have tested positive for COVID-19, are awaiting results of a COVID-19 test, or have had close contact with a person with COVID-19 and have been advised to quarantine.
  2. Pre-travel briefings are strongly recommended as a means to confirm that travelers understand the risks and local requirements at the travel destination.
  3. LBNL workers returning from personal travel are expected to follow the business travel quarantine requirements depending on their vaccination status.

E. Controls for Travel within the San Francisco Bay Area

  1. Travel within the nine Bay Area counties – irrespective of vaccination status– does not require testing or quarantine, nor does it require WPC activities or COO approval.
    The nine Bay Area counties are: Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, Napa, San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Solano, and Sonoma Counties. This includes travel between LBNL and UC Berkeley campus or the Richmond Field Station.
  2. All travelers must follow requirements outlined in section D above.

NOTE: Please refer to covid.lbl.gov for the most current COVID-19 requirements and information. Specific safety protocols are found at https://ehs.lbl.gov/coronavirus/.

F. Controls for Domestic Travel (within the United States)

  1. Protocol B travelers must follow the WPC Process for Traveling During COVID-19.
  2. All travelers must follow requirements outlined in section D above.
  3. Check state and local COVID-19 requirements at the destination and, if applicable, along the route.
  4. The table below outlines testing and quarantine requirements for domestic travel. If a person has had COVID-19 in the last 90 days, contact Health Services at 510-486-6266 for guidance on whether or not testing should be performed.
Testing and Quarantine Requirements for Domestic Travel
Travel within the United States, but outside of the 9 Bay Area countiesFully Vaccinated “Protocol A”Not Fully Vaccinated “Protocol B”
Get a COVID-19 test no more than 3 days before departureNot requiredRequired
Get a COVID-19 test 3-5 days after travel*This is an LBNL expectationRequired
Self-quarantine for 5 full days after travel*Not requiredRequired

* The day that a person returns from travel is considered to be “Day Zero”.

  1. Note that CDC guidelines can frequently change. When planning travel, be sure to review the CDC website for the most current guidance for Domestic Travel During COVID-19. If traveling by air, review any air carrier travel requirements.

NOTE: Please refer to covid.lbl.gov for the most current COVID-19 requirements and information. Specific safety protocols are found at https://ehs.lbl.gov/coronavirus/.

G. Controls for International Travel (INTO and OUT OF the United States)

  1. Protocol B travelers must follow the WPC Process for Traveling During COVID-19.
  2. All travelers must follow requirements outlined in section D above.
  3. Check COVID-19 requirements at the international destination and check the U.S. State Department website for country-specific COVID-19 information.
  4. The table below outlines testing and quarantine requirements for international travel. If a person has had COVID-19 in the last 90 days, contact Health Services at 510-486-6266 for guidance on whether or not testing should be performed.
Quarantine and Testing Requirements for International Travel
Travel OUT OF the United StatesFully Vaccinated “Protocol A”Not Fully Vaccinated “Protocol B”
Get a COVID-19 test no more than 3 days before traveling OUT OF the U.S.Not requiredRequired
Follow entry requirements at the international destinationRequiredRequired
Travel INTO the United StatesFully Vaccinated “Protocol A”Not Fully Vaccinated “Protocol B”
Get a COVID-19 test no more than 1 day before traveling INTO the U.S.RequiredRequired
Provide contact information to air carrierRequiredRequired
Get a COVID-19 test 3-5 days after arrival in the U.S.RequiredRequired
Self-quarantine for a full 5 days after arrival in the U.S.Not requiredRequired
If entering the U.S. at land ports of entry or ferry terminals, follow the requirements outlined in this Department of Homeland Security Fact Sheet.

* The day that a person returns from travel is considered to be “Day Zero”.

  1. Note that CDC guidelines can frequently change. When planning travel, be sure to review the CDC website for the most current guidance for Travel to and from the United States. If traveling by air, review any air carrier travel requirements.
  2. CDC has more stringent requirements for travel into the United States for those who are non-U.S. citizens or non-U.S. immigrants.

NOTE: Please refer to covid.lbl.gov for the most current COVID-19 requirements and information. Specific safety protocols are found at https://ehs.lbl.gov/coronavirus/.

H. Sharing Vehicles and Accommodations During Travel

LBNL workers may have occasion to share vehicles and/or accommodations during the course and scope of conducting approved business travel. During the COVID-19 response, approval to share vehicles and accommodations is based on vaccination status. Refer to section 46.5 for requirements related to vehicle sharing, including possible exceptions for not fully vaccinated individuals.

In general, Protocol A individuals may share accommodations with other Protocol A individuals or non-LBNL fully vaccinated individuals. Protocol B individuals may not share accommodations with other workers or individuals. Exceptions may apply.

46.7 COVID-19-related Requirements for Affiliates, Users, Vendors, Subcontractors, and Visitors Coming to LBNL

A. Introduction

This section outlines how the current LBNL COVID-19 policy applies to affiliates, users, vendors, subcontractors (both construction and nonconstruction), and visitors. It includes updated requirements and guidance from Cal/OSHA, California Department of Public Health, and the CDC.

B. Affiliates and Users

  1. Affiliates and users are required to comply with LBNL COVID-19 policy as outlined in sections 46.4 above, as a minimum. Refer to the “COVID-19 Safety Protocols for LBNL Staff, Affiliates, and Users” for the most current onsite requirements at LBNL. These protocols are found on the EHS COVID-19 website.
  2. All visits by affiliates and users must be authorized in advance via an existing LBNL work authorization mechanism (e.g., SJHA, ESAF, BASE JHA, and/or WPC Activity).
  3. Affiliates and users must monitor themselves for symptoms of COVID-19 every time they visit LBNL even though a health pledge may only be required one time. An example health pledge may be used for this purpose.
  4. When affiliates and users travel to LBNL from locations outside of the nine Bay Area Counties, they are expected to follow CDC travel guidance, including any testing and quarantine requirements, based on vaccination status; this is also outlined in section 46.6. These travel and quarantine requirements also apply if the affiliate or user is traveling for the purpose of conducting LBNL business, regardless of origin or destination.

Contact the EHS Division Liaison or the Division Safety Coordinator for assistance in determining proper COVID-19 prevention controls.

C. Vendors and Subcontractors

  1. Vendors and subcontractors are required to comply with the Cal/OSHA COVID-19 Emergency Temporary Standard, at a minimum. This requirement is communicated by Procurement. Refer to the “COVID-19 Safety Protocols for Subcontractors and Vendors” for the most current onsite requirements at LBNL. These protocols are found on the EHS COVID-19 website.
  2. All visits by vendors and subcontractors must be authorized in advance via an existing LBNL work authorization mechanism (e.g., SJHA, SSSP/JHA, ESAF, BASE JHA, and/or WPC Activity).
  3. Vendors and subcontractors must monitor themselves for symptoms of COVID-19 every time they visit LBNL even though a health pledge may not be required by Cal/OSHA. As an option, an example health pledge may be used for this purpose for construction subcontractors. For SJHAs, a copy is already embedded into the SJHA when workers sign it.
  4. When vendors and subcontractors travel to LBNL from locations outside of the nine Bay Area Counties, they are expected to follow CDC travel guidance, based on vaccination status, including any testing and quarantine.
  5. Effective March 9, 2022, face coverings are no longer required to be worn in most situations at the Lab. Even when not required, use of face coverings is encouraged for those who want to wear them. Details related to face covering requirements, including accepted types at the Lab, are outlined in the COVID-19 Safety Protocols for Subcontractors and Vendors.

Contact the EHS Division Liaison or the Division Safety Coordinator for assistance in determining proper COVID-19 prevention controls.

D. Visitors

  1. Visitor access to all of Berkeley Lab sites must follow LBNL Site Access requirements.
  2. All visits by visitors must be authorized by senior Division or Laboratory management.
  3. Where authorization is granted, the host is responsible and accountable for ensuring that LBNL COVID-19 prevention precautions are fully explained to and acknowledged by the visitors in advance of or at the beginning of the visit.
  4. During the visit, hosts are responsible for ensuring that LBNL’s COVID-19 precautions are followed by all visitors, particularly with respect to face covering and distancing requirements for unvaccinated individuals, when applicable. If necessary, disposable face coverings will be provided to visitors prior to entering any building.
  5. Visitors must monitor themselves for symptoms of COVID-19 every time they visit LBNL even though a health pledge is not required. An example health pledge may be used, if desired.
  6. When visitors travel to LBNL from locations outside of the nine Bay Area Counties, they are expected to follow CDC travel guidance, based on vaccination status, including any testing and quarantine.

Contact the EHS Division Liaison or the Division Safety Coordinator for assistance in determining proper COVID-19 prevention controls.

NOTE: Please refer to covid.lbl.gov for the most current COVID-19 requirements and information. Specific safety protocols are found at https://ehs.lbl.gov/coronavirus/.

46.8 Response to Onsite COVID-19 Infection or Outbreaks

A. Reporting to Health Services

All persons including employees, affiliates, users, subcontractors, vendors, and visitors are expected to perform daily COVID-symptom self monitoring checks and are required to contact LBNL Health Services at 510-486-6266 to report any of the following situations:

  1. You have COVID-19 Symptoms.
  2. You have a positive test for COVID-19.
  3. You have had close contact with a known COVID-19 positive person or a person with COVID-19 symptoms. Close contact means less than 6 feet from another person for more than 15 minutes in a 24 hour period. This applies regardless of use of face coverings. DO NOT COME TO THE LAB.

Please direct all other COVID questions to the LBNL COVID Info Line at 510-486-5000 (M-Th 8 am – 4 pm, F 8 am – 1 pm) or covidinfo@lbl.gov. All COVID questions to Health Services that are not related to reporting will be directed to the COVID Info Line.

Health Services will conduct contact tracing to determine whether a COVID-19 case or close contact is work-related. Subject matter experts and/or division representatives will be contacted for assistance, as deemed appropriate.

B. Investigation

LBNL will investigate and respond to COVID-19 cases occurring onsite. This includes determination of an exposed group (if applicable), identification of COVID-19 cases and close contacts, written notification to onsite workers (as applicable), making COVID-19 testing available, and implementing enhanced cleaning and disinfection procedures.

LBNL must perform a review of potentially relevant COVID-19 policies, procedures, and controls and implement changes as needed to prevent further spread of COVID-19. LBNL’s investigation will also address whether workplace conditions could have contributed to the risk of COVID-19 and what could be done to reduce exposure.

Findings will be documented and recommendations will be used to improve existing COVID-19 prevention practices and procedures. This may include one or more of the following:

  1. Relocating indoor tasks outdoors or having them performed remotely.
  2. Increasing outdoor air supply when work is done indoors.
  3. Improving air filtration.
  4. Increasing physical distancing as much as possible.
  5. Providing respiratory protection and other personal protective equipment.

C. COVID-19 Surveillance

Refer to section 46.4 subsection 12 for more detail about COVID-19 surveillance that is provided at no charge for LBNL workers. For further information, click here or refer to the LBNL COVID-19 website.

D. Contact Tracing

When indicated, contact tracing will be conducted or coordinated by Health Services to determine whether a COVID-19 case or close contact is work-related. Subject matter experts and/or division representatives will be contacted for assistance, as deemed appropriate.

E. Exclusion from Work

As part of the investigation process into a COVID-19 case or possible case (e.g., reported symptoms), Health Services will advise on the requirement to stay away from work and provide information on what testing may be required, the timing of such testing, and what requirements must be followed upon returning to work. The following will inform that determination.

Until the Return to Work criteria in Section F are met:

  • All COVID-19 cases must isolate and stay away from any LBNL location.
  • All LBNL workers who had a close contact to a COVID-19 case must stay away from any LBNL location, with the following exceptions:
    1. Workers who were fully vaccinated before the close contact occurred and who do not develop COVID-19 symptoms do not have to stay away from LBNL. Be sure to contact Health Services to confirm these requirements.
      1. These workers must get a COVID-19 test 3-5 days after exposure, and must wear a face covering indoors and maintain six feet distancing for 14 days.
    2. Certain COVID-19 cases who previously met the Return to Work criteria (see section F) may not have to stay away from LBNL. Health Services will make the appropriate determination depending on the specific circumstances.

At the time that a worker is required to stay away from LBNL locations, they will be provided with information on applicable benefits.

F. Return to Work

Health Services will advise on the approval for LBNL workers to return to work after being excluded due to being a COVID-19 case or having close contact with a COVID-19 case. The following conditions will inform that determination, but additional factors related to local or state public health orders or to critical staffing shortages may apply.

  1. COVID-19 Cases
    Return to work criteria depends on whether or not the COVID-19 case has symptoms. In either situation, a negative COVID-19 test is not required to return to work.
    1. COVID-19 cases with COVID-19 symptoms shall not return to work until all three of the following conditions are met:
      1. At least 24 hours have passed since a fever of 100.4 or higher has resolved without the use of fever-reducing medications; and
      2. COVID-19 symptoms have improved; and
      3. At least 10 days have passed since COVID-19 symptoms first appeared.
    2. COVID-19 cases who tested positive, but never developed symptoms, shall not return to work until at least 10 days have passed since the date that the first positive COVID-19 test was collected. A negative COVID-19 test is not required to return to work.
  2. Close Contacts
    Return to work criteria depends on whether or not the person who had the close contact has symptoms. Be sure to contact Health Services to confirm these requirements. Distancing and face covering requirements may apply upon return to work.
    1. Close contacts who never developed COVID-19 symptoms may return to work after 10 days have passed since the last known close contact.
    2. Close contacts who developed COVID-19 symptoms shall not return to work until the conditions in 1.a. above have been met.

G. COVID-19 Outbreaks

Outbreaks are described in terms of scope:

  1. A outbreak occurs when 3 or more employee COVID-19 cases within an exposed group visited the workplace during their high-risk exposure period at any time during a 14 day period.An outbreak is considered to be over when there are no more new COVID-19 cases detected in the exposed group for a 14-day period.
  2. A major outbreak occurs if 20 or more COVID-19 cases in an exposed group visited the workplace during their high-risk exposure period within a 30-day period. A major outbreak is considered to be over when there are fewer than 3 new COVID-19 cases detected in the exposed group for a 14-day period.

LBNL’s response to outbreaks includes making COVID-19 testing available to the exposed group, requiring the use of face coverings, evaluating whether physical distancing must be implemented, and determination of additional controls to reduce the transmission of COVID-19, including making respirators available.

H. Reporting and Recordkeeping

LBNL will implement all required recordkeeping and reporting requirements for COVID-19 cases and outbreaks. Reporting, recording, and tracking will be performed in accordance with Centers for Disease Control and local and state health department requirements.

Serious illness (hospitalization) or death of an employee occurring at the workplace or in connection with employment will be reported in accordance with existing requirements.

Personally identifiable information associated with COVID-19 cases or persons with close contact will be kept confidential. All COVID-19 testing or related medical services will be provided in a manner that ensures the confidentiality of LBNL workers. Unredacted information on COVID-19 cases will, upon request, be provided to the local health department, California Department of Public Health, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, or as otherwise required by law.

The most recent LBNL OSHA 300 Log is available online for review. If requested, it will be provided to LBNL workers or their representatives.

I. Notifications

In the event of COVID-19 cases or outbreaks, notifications will be made in accordance with state or local health department requirements.

NOTE: Please refer to covid.lbl.gov for the most current COVID-19 requirements and information. Specific safety protocols are found at https://ehs.lbl.gov/coronavirus/.

46.9 COVID-19 Prevention on LBNL Shuttles

LBNL shuttles are treated as a form of public transit and operated in accordance with applicable requirements. Those requirements include:

  • Face coverings must be worn by all individuals while riding or driving in the shuttle. Face coverings will be provided. Not fully vaccinated individuals must maximize distance from others when riding the shuttle.
  • Not fully vaccinated individuals are recommended to maintain 6 foot physical distancing while waiting for the shuttle, but are not required to wear face coverings when 6 foot distancing outdoors cannot be maintained.
  • Screening and, as warranted, exclusion of drivers and riders with COVID-19 symptoms prior to boarding the shuttle.
  • Cleaning all high-contact surfaces (door handles, seat belt buckles, armrests, etc.) used by passengers at least once per day.
  • Cleaning all high-contact surfaces used by drivers, such as the steering wheel, armrests, seat belt buckles, door handles and shifter between different drivers.
  • Enhanced disinfecting procedures will be implemented for surfaces used by COVID-19 cases (or suspected cases) when it has been determined to be warranted. Typically, this is within 24 hours of when a COVID-19 case was present during the high-risk exposure period.
  • Ensuring that vehicle windows are kept open, and the ventilation system set to maximize outdoor air and not set to recirculate air. Windows do not have to be kept open if one or more of the following conditions exist:
    • The vehicle has functioning air conditioning in use and excessive outdoor heat would create a hazard to occupants.
    • The vehicle has functioning heating in use and excessive outdoor cold would create a hazard to occupants.
    • Protection is needed from weather conditions.
    • The vehicle has a cabin air filter in use and the U.S. EPA Air Quality Index for any pollutant is greater than 100.
  • Providing hand sanitizer in each vehicle and ensuring that all drivers and riders sanitize their hands before entering and exiting the vehicle. Hand sanitizers with methyl alcohol are prohibited.

46.10 Source Documents

46.11 References

Appendix A: Definitions

Term

Definition

Administrative Controls

Training, procedures, policies, and/or shift designs that lessen the threat of a hazard to an individual.   Administrative controls address behavior rather than removing the actual hazard or providing personal protective equipment (PPE).

Affiliate

Affiliates are non-employee contributors engaged in LBNL activities. Affiliates are subject to applicable training in safety and other subjects, and must abide by all applicable policies and requirements including but not limited to Intellectual Property, Site Access and Security policies.  Affiliates are issued an LBNL identification badge and may receive access rights to system accounts. They also receive access to certain buildings/facilities (depending on the nature of their position) and a possible per diem allowance for housing and living expenses in accordance with LBNL policy.  Affiliates perform work at User Facilities, and as scientific collaborators, students, subcontractors and independent consultants, etc.

BASE JHA

Berkeley Accelerator Space Effects Facility Job Hazard Analysis, a work authorization for external 88-Inch Cyclotron users.

Bay Area Counties

Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, Napa, San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Solano, and Sonoma counties.

Business Travel

Travel during the course and scope of conducting LBNL business.  Transit to, between, or from LBNL and its satellite locations or UC Berkeley campus does not constitute business travel.  Business travel typically involves reimbursement and is subject to prior approval by division management and/or the Chief Operation Officer (or designee).  

California Labor Code

Comprising multiple regulations, the California Labor Code regulates, among other things, COVID-19 (Title 8, Section 3205 “COVID-19 Prevention”).

CDC

United States Centers for Disease Control

Cleaning

Cleaning is a process using soap or detergent to reduce germs on surfaces by removing contaminants and decreases risk of infection from surfaces. Per CDC guidelines, when no people with confirmed or suspected COVID-19 are known to have been in a space, cleaning once a day is usually enough to sufficiently remove virus that may be on surfaces and help maintain a healthy facility. Compare to “disinfecting”.

Close contact

Close contact is defined as being within six feet of a COVID-19 case for a cumulative total of 15 minutes or greater in any 24-hour period within or overlapping with the “high-risk exposure period”. This applies regardless of use of face coverings.

Commonly Touched Surfaces (also referred to as “high touch surfaces”)

Surfaces (e.g., keyboards, control panels, handrails, door hardware, etc.) that may be touched by multiple people.

Commuting

Transit between an employee residence and a routinely assigned LBNL work location.  Contrast with approved  business travel.

Construction Subcontractor

A firm that has sole contractual responsibility for execution of the construction work related to a project, and for compliance with all safety, health, and environmental codes, standards, and regulations. For more on construction subcontractors, see ES&H Manual Chapter 10, “Construction Safety”. Work authorization is through the SSSP/JHA process.

Contact Tracing

Per the CDC, contact tracing is used by Health Services to prevent the spread of infectious disease. In general, contact tracing involves identifying people who have an infectious disease (cases) and people who they came in contact with (contacts) and working with them to interrupt disease spread.  Contact tracing is conducted by the health providers in Health Services.  Results of contact tracing trigger isolation, quarantine, and testing requirements.

Course and Scope

An activity of any kind or character that has to do with work performed by an LBNL worker while engaged in or about the furtherance of the affairs or business of the LBNL.

COVID-19

COVID-19 or Coronavirus Disease 2019 means the disease caused by SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2).

COVID-19 Case

A person who has a positive COVID-19 test or has a positive COVID-19 diagnosis from a licensed health care provider. been determined to be positive for COVID-19.  A “case” can also be a person who is subject to an order to isolate issued by a local or state health official or who has died due to COVID-19 as determined by a local health department or per inclusion in the COVID-19 statistics of a county. 

COVID-19 Hazard

Potentially infectious material that may contain SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. Potentially infectious materials include airborne droplets, small particle aerosols, and airborne droplet nuclei, which most commonly result from a person or persons exhaling, talking or vocalizing, coughing, or sneezing, or from procedures performed on persons which may aerosolize saliva or respiratory tract fluids. This also includes objects or surfaces that may be contaminated with COVID-19.

COVID-19 Symptoms

Fever of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit or higher, chills, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fatigue, muscle or body aches, headache, new loss of taste or smell, sore throat, congestion or runny nose, nausea or vomiting, or diarrhea, unless a licensed health care professional determines the person’s symptoms were caused by a known condition other than COVID-19.

COVID-19 Test

A viral test for SARS-CoV-2. When administered in the United States, such tests must be approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or have an Emergency Use Authorization from the FDA. When administered outside of the United States, the test used must be authorized for use by the relevant national authority for the detection of SARS-CoV-2 in the country where the test is administered.

Disinfecting

Disinfecting kills germs on the surface. Disinfectants effective against COVID-19 must be on the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)’s List N disinfectants.) Per CDC guidelines, disinfecting is typically not necessary when no people with confirmed or suspected COVID-19 are known to have been in a space. Compare to “cleaning”.

Division Management

Line management leaders.  This may include Associate LBNL Directors, division directors, division deputies, or other individuals designated by line management. 

Engineering Controls

Engineering controls are physical changes to the workplace that isolate workers from hazards. A key objective with engineering controls is to permit continuance of operations without interfering with productivity or access to points of operation.   Engineering controls relevant to COVID-19 prevention include but are not limited to ventilation, barriers, and containment of hazards.

ESAF

Experimental Safety Assessment Form, a work authorization for ALS users.

Exposed Group

All LBNL workers at a work location, working area, or common area at work, where an employee COVID-19 case was present at any time during the high-risk period.  A common area at work includes  bathrooms, walkways, hallways, aisles, break or eating areas, and waiting areas. Exceptions apply and are further described in the outbreak section of this document.

Face Covering

Effective January 25, 2022, an acceptable face covering includes one of the following types:

  • N95 respirator without exhalation valves (request one following this process)
  • KN95 or KF94 mask
  • Surgical-type mask
  • Cloth face covering worn over a surgical-type mask (double-masking)
  • Filtered cloth face covering (tightly woven fabric)

A face covering must cover both mouth and nose. A face covering has no visible holes or openings, such as exhalation valves. A face covering does not include a scarf, ski mask, balaclava, bandana, turtleneck, collar, or any unfiltered single or double layer of fabric. More details on face coverings, including when and how to wear them is found in the Face Covering Guidance documenthere located on the EHS COVID-19 website. Refer to the face covering definition for acceptable types.

FDA

United States Food and Drug Administration

Fully Vaccinated

The employer has documented that at least two weeks have passed since a person completed a COVID-19 Vaccine series (for example, 1 dose of the Janssen/J&J vaccine, or 2 doses within no more than 12 weeks of the Moderna or Pfizer vaccine) AND any boosters consistent with manufacturer instructions and applicable agency approval, authorization, or listing. In this document the term “fully vaccinated” means that a person has received a full vaccine series AND a booster shot, when eligible.

Vaccines must be FDA approved; have an emergency use authorization from the FDA; or, for persons fully vaccinated outside the United States, be listed for emergency use or approved by the World Health Organization (WHO).

Health Symptom Checks

A weekly declaration by LBNL workers acknowledging that, to the best of their knowledge, they are free of COVID-19 infection symptoms.

High Risk Exposure Period

For COVID-19 cases who develop COVID-19 symptoms, from two days before they first develop symptoms until all of the following are true: it has been 10 days since symptoms first appeared, 24 hours have passed with no fever, without the use of fever-reducing medications, and symptoms have improved.

For COVID-19 cases who never develop COVID-19 symptoms, from two days before until ten days after the specimen for their first positive test for COVID-19 was collected.

High Touch Surfaces

See “Commonly Touched Surfaces”.

Host

The individual(s) or organization sponsoring a visitor, which may be a casual visitor or one who is performing essential work or services.

Infectious Period

The time during which a COVID-19-positive individual is infectious, as defined by the State Department of Public Health. See the definition for High Risk Exposure Period.

Isolate/Isolation 

Isolate/isolation (sometimes referred to as “self-isolation”) is used to separate people who are infected with COVID-19 from people who are not infected.  People who are in isolation must remain at their home until it’s safe for them to be around others.  An isolation period continues until the infected individual is cleared to return to work, which will require a release for return to work from a healthcare provider in accordance with LBNL policy (5 days or more off work).    

LBNL

The Hill, Emeryville, Potter, OCFO, and Donner Lab locations.  See “Satellite Locations”.

LBNL worker

The term “LBNL worker” is used to denote employees, affiliates, and others who are working under a WPC activity or other work authorization document. It does not include vendors or subcontractors.

Major Outbreak

A major outbreak occurs when 20 or more employee COVID-19 cases in an exposed group visited the workplace during their high-risk exposure period within a 30-day period.

NIOSH

National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health

Nonconstruction Subcontractor

A firm that has sole contractual responsibility for execution of defined work related to a project (i.e., nonconstruction work), and for compliance with all safety, health, and environmental codes, standards, and regulations. For more on nonconstruction subcontractors, see ES&H Manual Chapter 31, “sJHA Process – Subcontractor Job Hazards Analysis”. Work authorization is through the SJHA process.

Not Fully Vaccinated

The employer has NOT documented that at least two weeks have passed since a person completed a COVID-19 Vaccine series (for example, 1 dose of the Janssen/J&J vaccine, or 2 doses within no more than 12 weeks of the Moderna or Pfizer vaccine) AND any boosters consistent with manufacturer instructions and applicable agency approval, authorization, or listing. In this document, “not fully vaccinated” means that a person has NOT received a full vaccine series AND a booster shot, when eligible, or that the employer has not documented the vaccination status.

Vaccines must be FDA approved; have an emergency use authorization from the FDA; or, for persons fully vaccinated outside the United States, be listed for emergency use or approved by the World Health Organization (WHO).

Outbreak

An outbreak occurs when three or more employee COVID-19 cases within an exposed group visited the workplace during their high-risk exposure period at any time during a 14 day period.

Personally Identifiable Information

Any representation of information that permits the identity of an individual to whom the information applies to be reasonably inferred by either direct or indirect means. 

Personal Protection Equipment 

Often referred to as PPE, personal protective controls provide protection of the wearer from injury or infection.  Typical PPE measures include, but are not limited to, respiratory protection (i.e., elastomeric respirators), protective clothing, goggles, and garments designed to protect the wearer’s body from injury or infection. Face coverings are not considered to be PPE.

Physical Distancing

Maintaining space between people.  Also referred to as “social distancing”.  Six feet is generally considered the minimum level of distancing, but it is neither absolute nor does it guarantee that COVID-19 virus will not spread from one person to another.

Public Transportation or public transit

Public transit includes airplanes, ships, ferries, trains, subways (e.g., BART), buses, taxis, and ride-shares (e.g., Uber, Lyft, etc).

Quarantine

Quarantines are used to keep someone who had a close contact with COVID-19 away from others. A quarantine helps prevent spread of disease that can occur before a person knows they are sick or if they are infected with the virus without feeling symptoms. People in quarantine should stay home, separate themselves from others, monitor their health, and follow directions from their state or local health department. Sometimes referred to as “self-quarantine”. Self- quarantine also applies to unvaccinated individuals upon arrival at a destination after travel.

Quarantine periods are typically 7-10 days, but may be as long as 14 days, subject to revision by the Centers for Disease Control or local public health authorities.  A quarantine period remains in effect until complete; there is no option to “test out” of quarantine.

Respirator

A respirator is a NIOSH-approved personal protective device that is worn on the face, covers at least the nose and mouth, and is used to reduce the wearer’s risk of inhaling hazardous airborne particles (including dust particles and infectious agents), gases, or vapors. Respirators are restricted items at LBNL and can only be obtained through EHS.

Ride-Share

A form of public transit involving a car service that allows a person to use a smartphone app to arrange a ride in a usually privately owned vehicle. Examples include, but are not limited to Uber and Lyft.

Satellite Location

An LBNL location outside the Hill site.  This includes Emeryville, Potter, OCFO, and Donner Lab locations.  

SJHA

Subcontractor Job Hazards Analysis, a work authorization document for vendors and nonconstruction subcontractors.

SSSP/JHA

Site-Specific Safety Plan, a safety document submitted by construction subcontractors in conjunction with Job Hazard Analysis documents.

Subcontractor

A firm that has sole contractual responsibility for execution of the work related to a project, and for compliance with all safety, health, and environmental codes, standards, and regulations. Subcontractors provide either construction work or nonconstruction work, each with a different work authorization mechanism.

Transportation hubs

Airport, bus terminal, marina, train station, seaport or other port, subway station, or any other area that provides transportation.

User

A subset of LBNL employees or affiliates who come to LBNL as users at one or more of its various user facilities. They work under the auspices of an LBNL host.

Vendor

An entity that sells a product for which installation or warranty service may be provided. A vendor is a type of subcontractor. Work authorization is typically through the SJHA process.

Visitor

A person who is not a worker, vendor, affiliate, user, or subcontractor.

Worksite

For the purposes of investigating COVID-19 cases in the workplace, the term “worksite” means the building, store, facility, agricultural field, or other location where a COVID-19 case was present during the high-risk exposure period. It does not apply to buildings, floors, or other locations of the employer that a COVID-19 case did not enter.

Worker

Broadly defined as anyone who performs work at or for LBNL.

____________________

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