Face Coverings

Effective August 4, 2021, based on guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, all campus members are required to wear face coverings indoors. This requirement applies regardless of COVID-19 vaccination status, and it includes the use of face coverings during shared transportation in Salem buses and vehicles. Vaccinated employees have the option to remove their face coverings when alone in their private offices. Residential students have the option to remove their face coverings inside their residence hall room while in their “family unit” (with roommate only).

For large campus events in Hanes Auditorium, Shirley Auditorium, or Huber Theater involving speakers at podiums who are significantly distanced (at least 12 feet apart) from others, speakers may remove their mask at the podium while speaking.  This exception only applies for special events. It does not apply to classes, classrooms, or theatrical and music performances.

Use of face coverings outdoors is required by campus members who are not fully vaccinated against COVID-19 when unable to physically distance at least six feet apart from others. Face covering usage outdoors is optional for campus members who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19.

These face covering requirements apply to guests and visitors on campus.

Face coverings may be cloth or disposable. Gaiter style face coverings are not permitted. Students and employees are expected to maintain their own supply of face coverings that fit appropriately and can be cleaned regularly and changed daily.

Individuals who enter campus facilities or participate in campus activities without following these face covering guidelines will be asked to leave. Campus members should maintain a face covering with them at all times whenever they are on campus for use as required or needed.

CDC Guidance for of Use of Face Coverings

Physical Distancing

Students, employees, and visitors should continue to practice safe physical distancing whenever possible. With the availability of the COVID-19 vaccine, Salem classrooms and other campus spaces will operate with reduced physical distancing requirements and higher occupancy limits for Fall 2021 than previously possible during the pandemic.

Healthy Hygiene

Healthy hand hygiene and frequent hand washing are required. Students, employees, and guests are expected to wash their hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after visiting a public space and blowing their nose, coughing, sneezing, or touching their face. If soap and water are not readily available, individuals should use appropriate hand sanitizer. For COVID-19 prevention, avoid shaking hands and touching your eyes, nose, mouth, and face. Salem will provide hand-sanitizer in building lobbies and common spaces to encourage and facilitate campus keeping their hands clean.

Campus members are expected to exhibit coughing and sneezing hygiene by covering their mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing or using the inside of their elbow. Individuals must throw used tissues in a trash receptacle and immediately wash their hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or clean their hands with an appropriate hand sanitizer.