Post COVID-19 Employee Handbook June 2021 - Goodwill ...
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Post COVID-19 Employee Handbook
June 2021COVID-19 | General Information & FAQ’s
With the current environment in the State of California, as we necessarily make rapid changes to our
operations in order to minimize the spread of COVID-19, we understand the significant impact to our
employees.
At this time, we are proud to announce that we have not had to furlough or layoff any employee as a
result of the current pandemic. However this will be an ongoing event and as we prepare to return to work
we offer the following information to provide general guidance to all employees.
For the purpose of this document all accrued Paid Leave Benefits will be listed as PLB, to include sick,
vacation, floating holiday, and administrative leaves.
In the event of changes we will update this document and redistribute it to all current GIRE employees.
This document and all related policies, charts, tables will be available from Human Resources and online
through the GIRE intranet.
GIRE will adhere to all Federal, State and local legal requirements.
Return to Work
In preparation of returning employees to worksites, GIRE has created Risk Assessment Plans with
checklists for establishing safe and healthy workplaces. A Plan has been created for each unique
worksite and/or service performed wherein a building may house dissimilar work functions. All plans are
available on-site and on the intranet.
Employees will be recalled to work as Public Health Orders allow.
Employees called back from Shelter in Place will cease to receive GIRE Emergency Pay.
Employees will be required to adhere to all current Public Health Orders including worksite
modification and directives resulting from those Orders.
All employees are required to perform a Self-Assessment of their health status prior to reporting
to work. Employees that are ill are not to report to the worksite, and call their supervisor.
As of June 17, 2021 unvaccinated individuals are required to wear a facial covering on public
transit, indoors in K-12, childcare, and other youth settings, healthcare settings, state and local
correctional facilities and detention centers, homeless shelters, emergency shelters, and cooling
stations. GIRE employees are required to wear a facial covering if they are not fully vaccinated.
Employees who are fully vaccinated are not required to wear a facial covering once they have
signed the Self-Certification of Vaccination Status form available from Human Resources.
As of June 17, 2021, social distancing protocols have been discontinued.
All meeting rooms, computer labs and large open spaces have been reopened to maximum
capacity.
Safety and health trainings will be presented in a variety of modalities and training materials will
be made available in both hard copy and electronically through the GIRE intranet.
Remote Work – Specific to the COVID – 19 Pandemic, positions that allow for remote work may
work remotely two half days per week, through September 30, 2021, with the approval of the
Department Manager and the Division Head. GIRE reserves the right to make any necessary
changes to remote work due to Public Health Order or for Business Needs.
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Post COVID-19 Employee Handbook Effective June 2021Time off Requests
The State of California has recently enacted Supplement Paid Sick Leave (SPSL) which provides
employees two weeks of paid time off for reasons related to COVID-19, from January 1, 2021 through
September 30, 2021. Employees requesting leave related to COVID-19 must still follow procedures in
place for requesting time off.
School Closures and Childcare
Most school districts are open again however, there may be some that remain closed. Our goal is to work
with each employee to find a solution that is best for both the employee and the company. As multiple
employees may be impacted within a single office or department, we will need to evaluate each situation
as it develops to balance the needs of the business with the needs of individual employees.
Q: I am unable to find childcare, and/or I don’t know where else to look for childcare?
The following childcare resources are available for the areas impacted by school closures.
● Call 2-1-1 or visit 211sonoma.org
● Visit the virtual Local Assistance Center at socoemergency.org/home/recover/virtual-local-
assistance-center/
Q: I am able to find childcare, but they cannot take my child(ren) until July so I don’t have care
today.
We are glad you were able to find childcare coverage! Contact your Manager and/or HR to discuss
options for the days on which you are unable to find childcare.
Q: If I can’t find childcare, will I lose my job if I must take time off or if I don’t have enough PLB?
We don’t want or anticipate anyone losing their job due to childcare during these unprecedented times
where childcare is not readily available as an option as it typically has been pre-COVID-19 outbreak. We
value our employees and will work with all teammates who are unable to secure childcare to explore all
options during any school/childcare closure periods. This may include PLB and government assistance. If
you do not have adequate PLB to cover any time off needed for childcare, contact your manager and/or
HR to discuss other options.
Q: If my job allows me to work remotely, can I work from home if I can’t find childcare?
We appreciate our teams’ commitment to getting the job done regardless of what is happening and
wherever may be happening. We have developed and launched our plans to allow some roles to work
remotely on a case-by-case basis. Please inquire with your manager if this is an option for your role.
Employee’s Choice to Stay Home
Q: I want to reduce my schedule partially or fully for my own reasons even though I am being
offered work hours (in-office or remote work options). How do I do this?
We respect your decision to stay home during this coronavirus outbreak. Please notify your Manager
immediately of your decision and follow the below instructions:
Complete a "Time Off Request Form"
Select "Other" for type of leave.
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Post COVID-19 Employee Handbook Effective June 2021 In the "Comments" section, indicate the reason for your request. Notes should be detailed and
specific.
Example: I want to stay home until the shelter in place is lifted due to coronavirus, and I can secure
childcare.
Submit the form through the AskHR@gire.org or to your manager.
Q: If I choose to reduce my schedule partially or fully, due to my own reasons, will I qualify for
unemployment benefits?
You are welcome to file a claim, but ultimately this decision will be up to the CA Employment
Development Department (EDD) based on your reason. EDD benefits are not guaranteed and you must
qualify for them. There are several factors the EDD will review.
See the attached table “Benefits for Workers Impacted by COVID-19”, and click on the link for: “Learn
more about your eligibility for Unemployment Insurance”.
Q: I do not feel comfortable coming to work due to the coronavirus outbreak. Can I work from
home?
We appreciate our teams’ commitment to getting the job done regardless of what is happening and
wherever it may be happening. We have developed and launched our plans to allow some roles to work
remotely on a case-by-case basis. Please inquire with your manager if this is an option for your role.
Employee Illness (or Household Illness)
Important Note: During the COVID-19 outbreak, if you are seeking non-emergency medical attention, you
may not be able to get an immediate appointment with your medical provider’s office due to the impact on
the healthcare system. You may be able to take advantage of any tele-health options available.
Q: What if I have symptoms of COVID-19?
Your health is top priority. Do not come in to work if you have symptoms associated with COVID-19.
Symptoms include fever, cough, shortness of breath, and sudden loss of taste or sense of smell. You
may notice fatigue and/or body aches. Symptoms may be mild. Please contact your medical provider
should you have concerns regarding any flu-like symptoms.
If you are at work and display any symptoms, you will be sent home. In any case, you should monitor
symptoms and contact your medical provider for further instructions. Report this to your manager and
AskHR@gire.org. Keep your manager informed of your time away from the office.
Q: When can I come back to work after my symptoms of COVID-19 have disappeared?
In order to return to work you must meet the following criteria: 10 days have passed since your symptoms
first appeared or the date you took your test, 24 hours without a fever (without using any fever reducing
medications), and your symptoms should be improving. .
Q: What if I am suspected or confirmed to have COVID-19?
Your health is top priority. Do not come in to work and contact your medical provider for further
instructions. Report this illness immediately to your manager and AskHR@gire.org. Keep your manager
informed of your time away from the office and upload any doctor’s notes received to AskHR@gire.org.
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Post COVID-19 Employee Handbook Effective June 2021Q: When can I come back to work after my infection with COVID-19 has been eliminated?
In order to return to work you must meet the following criteria: 10 days have passed since your symptoms
first appeared or the date you took your test, 24 hours without a fever (without using any fever reducing
medications), and your symptoms should be improving.
Q: What if I have been directly exposed to a confirmed case of COVID-19?
If you have been exposed to or if you are living in the same household as a person with laboratory-
confirmed COVID-19 infection, you will be required to stay home for at least 14 days after the date of your
last exposure. You should monitor yourself and contact your medical provider should any symptoms
appear. Report this to your manager and Human Resources at AskHR@gire.org. Keep your manager
informed of your time away from work. If no symptoms develop, get tested 8 days after exposure. You will
be required to present a letter of release from quarantine to GIRE before you can return to the work
environment. If you develop symptoms you should get tested immediately. If you are fully vaccinated you
do not need to quarantine as long as you are not exhibiting symptoms. If you develop symptoms, follow
the protocol above.
Q: What if I have been directly exposed to someone with symptoms of COVID-19?
If you have been exposed to or if you are living in the same household as a person with symptoms of
COVID-19 infection, you will be required to stay home for at least 14 days after the date of your last
exposure. You should monitor yourself and contact your medical provider should any symptoms appear.
Report this to your manager and Human Resources at AskHR@gire.org. Keep your manager informed of
your time away from work. If no symptoms develop, get tested 8 days after exposure. You will be
required to present a letter of release from quarantine to GIRE before you can return to the work
environment. If you develop symptoms you should get tested immediately.
If you are fully vaccinated you do not need to quarantine as long as you are not exhibiting symptoms. If
you develop symptoms, follow the protocol above.
Q: I am sick with an illness other than COVID-19 (such as a common cold or flu). Should I stay
home?
Yes. Your health is top priority. Do not come in to work. Rest, take care of yourself, and follow your
medical provider’s instructions as applicable. Report this illness immediately to your manager and
AskHR@gire.org so that they can offer guidance on possible benefit options. Keep your manager
informed of your time away from the office and upload any doctor’s notes received to AskHR@gire.org.
Q: When can I come back to work after my illness other than COVID-19 (such as a common cold
or flu)?
Please don’t report back to work until at least 24 hours after your fever* (temperature of 100 degrees
Fahrenheit or 37.8 degrees Celsius or higher) is gone. You should measure your temperature without the
use of fever-reducing medicines (medicines that contains ibuprofen or acetaminophen).
Note: Not everyone with flu will have a fever. Individuals with suspected or confirmed flu, who do not have
a fever, should stay home from work at least 4-5 days after their symptoms first appeared. Persons with
the flu are most contagious during the first 3 days of their illness.
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Post COVID-19 Employee Handbook Effective June 2021Q: I received the COVID-19 vaccine and am now experiencing side-effects. If I need to take time off
work to recover, will I get paid?
Yes, the new CA Supplemental Paid Sick leave covers time off work due to illness related to getting
vaccinated.
Q: I already took time off for COVID last year. Do I have more time available?
Yes, the new CA Supplemental Paid Sick leave provides a new bank of paid time off as of January 1,
2021.
Employee Furlough and/or Lay-off Notice
At this writing, no GIRE employees have been furloughed nor laid-off. However, we must be prepared for
future events that may result in such action becoming necessary. Employees who are furloughed or laid-
off will be notified by Management as to their impacted schedule as well as benefit options available to
them during this time. Furloughed employees will continue to have access to the GIRE Intranet, 216 line,
AskHR@gire.org email, and Ascentis self-service portal.
We’ve prepared the following Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s) and informational links to assist you in
understanding your options and resources. Contact Management or HR if you have any questions: 707-
523-0550, AskHR@gire.org
Below is a link to the GIRE intranet for documents and requests that may come up:
https://gire.org/user.html
Employee Temporary Furlough (Reduced Hours)
Q: I have been temporarily furloughed (my hours have been partially or fully reduced). What are
my options to supplement my pay for lost income?
There are various ways to supplement your income such as PLB (Paid Leave Benefits), Unemployment
Insurance, additional government help such as Emergency Paid Sick Leave, Extended FMLA, etc. See
available resources in the attached table “Benefits for Workers Impacted by COVID-19”.
Q: I have been temporarily furloughed. If I use available PLB (Paid Leave Benefits), can I still
apply for Unemployment Insurance?
Yes, you use can use PLB and apply for Unemployment through the EDD.
When furloughed, you may request to use PLB (through Ascentis). Additionally, you may apply for
Unemployment Insurance. Keep in mind, you must report your wages earned (this includes hours/pay for
PLB) to the EDD so they can coordinate your benefits. There is no “double-dipping”. For example, if you
get paid 40 hours of PLB for the week of April 6 through April 10, 2020, you would report those hours as
earned wages to EDD, and they will determine your eligibility for the following week to receive benefits
th
(week starting April 13 ). For more detail, see attached table “Benefits for Workers Impacted by COVID-
19”.
Q: I have been temporarily furloughed. Am I still an employee of the Company?
Yes, you are still an employee of the Goodwill ~ Redwood Empire! The anticipated return to work date
would be provided in a furlough or layoff notice, and Management would confirm your exact return to work
date when more information is available.
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Post COVID-19 Employee Handbook Effective June 2021Q: I have been temporarily furloughed. Do I still have my employee health benefits?
Yes, your health benefits will remain during a temporary furlough period.
Should a furlough become necessary it is our anticipation that, in an effort to ensure our covered
employees retain health care during the furlough, Goodwill would fully cover the employee’s portion of
benefits cost. However a decision on whether or not this is financially feasible will be made at the time of
furlough.
NOTE: Employees who work their full regular schedule will continue to be responsible for their benefits
premiums through normal payroll deductions. Please contact HR if you have any questions by emailing
AskHR@gire.org or 707-523-0550.
Employee Lay-offs
Q: I have been laid-off. How is this different from a Furlough?
Furloughs are temporary, often announced with a stated period of time such as January 1 through
February 1, and generally allow for employees to remain in active employment status. Active status
creates the opportunity to use accrued benefits in order to continue to receive a paycheck if the
employers’ policies allow. Further, the employer may choose to continue or cease benefit coverage, such
as medical insurance.
Layoffs can be temporary or permanent. Both require the employer to fully pay out all accrued benefits at
the time of the layoff. At layoff the employer will cease all contributions to benefits including medical
coverage.
At this writing there is no determination about how GIRE will handle the benefit component should further
Shelter in Place orders be issued. The Board of Directors will consider all future events at the time they
arise.
General Employment Questions & Information
Q: Where do I find the most up-to-date information regarding our Company and associated
Coronavirus updates?
Please visit the GIRE intranet gire.org/user for Company updates. Periodically we will make updates to
the 216 line and make an announcement through a texting service. If you are furloughed, Management
will communicate any pertinent updates with you by phone and/or text.
Q: What other resources or protections are available to help me and my family during this time?
California has been actively and extensively planning with our local public health and health care delivery
1
systems. Here are some of the actions California is taking to combat COVID-19 :
The Governor issued an executive order authorizing local governments to halt evictions for renters
and homeowners, slows foreclosures, and protects against utility shut offs for Californians affected by
COVID-19.
The Governor removed the waiting period for unemployment and disability insurance for Californians
who lose work as a result of the COVID-19 outbreak.
Many banks are offering various types of mortgage relief.
Click here to see a recent Forbes article listing several banks.
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Post COVID-19 Employee Handbook Effective June 2021 Public Resources
o Office of Governor Gavin Newsom – COVID-19 Updates
https://www.gov.ca.gov/
o California Department of Public Health
https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CID/DCDC/Pages/Immunization/ncov2019.aspx
Q: Where do I go to file an unemployment claim?
You can read about coronavirus-related options offered through CA EDD and file an unemployment claim
here: https://edd.ca.gov/about_edd/coronavirus-2019.htm. Links are also included in the attached table
“Benefits for Workers Impacted by COVID-19”.
Q: Is my job protected for things caused by Coronavirus?
We understand you may have concerns, fears, and questions about this outbreak and how it affects your
employment. As much as we would want to promise every employee that their job is guaranteed, it is not
feasible in this unprecedented time, given that there is a great deal unknown as to what may happen
next. Our goal is to get employees back to work as quickly as possible. Our employees and clients are
the heart of our company and we wouldn’t exist without either.
We are closely monitoring the coronavirus impact on our business. We’ve outlined a Business Continuity
Plan to take into consideration local and federal guidelines and mandates. We’ve made every effort
possible to lessen the impact of our business decisions upon our teams and clients. After shelter-in-place
orders are lifted and per healthcare guidelines, we will launch our next plan phase to return our
employees back to work and resume full business operations as quickly as possible. Please be patient as
we monitor the situation – our organization offers a variety of services in many locations so our recovery
plan may be different across our programs and locations depending on local circumstances.
Q: Will I be disciplined if I am in violation of the company’s attendance policy due to COVID-19
related absences?
No. We will not be disciplining employees who are in violation of attendance policies because of COVID-
19, as the health and safety of all employees is the most important factor in the face of a pandemic. We
respect your choice to stay home and are not forcing anyone to work.
Q: What are my options for time off and pay during the coronavirus outbreak?
There are various ways to supplement your income such as use of Paid Leave Benefits (PLB),
Unemployment Insurance, additional government help, etc. See available resources in the attached table
“Benefits for Workers Impacted by COVID-19”.
Q: Do I need to wear a mask when I am at work?
If you are fully vaccinated (at least two weeks has passed since your second dose of the Pfizer or
Moderna vaccine or single dose of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine) then you may sign the Self-
Certification of Vaccination Status form and submit it to HR. If you choose not to sign the form, you will be
considered unvaccinated for the purposes of rules and requirements in the workplace that are different
depending on vaccination status.
Q: I am fully vaccinated but would like to continue wearing a mask. Is that allowed?
Yes, you can continue to wear a mask, regardless of vaccination status, without fear of retaliation.
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Post COVID-19 Employee Handbook Effective June 2021Q: I am choosing to wear a mask and my coworkers are asking me if I am vaccinated. Do I need to
tell them my status?
No. You should not be disclosing your vaccination status to anyone unless you choose to sign the Self-
Certification of Vaccination Status form. The form should only be seen by your manager and HR. Asking
others about their vaccination status is prohibited.
Q: I am not vaccinated and would like to wear an N95 mask. Do you provide them?
Yes. Any unvaccinated employee may request an N95 respirator at no cost to them and without fear of
retaliation. If an employee wears a respirator, they must receive training on how to properly fit and wear
the respirator. Contact the Safety Coordinator or Human Resources for more information.
Q: I work outside but am not vaccinated. Do I need to wear a mask?
No. All employees may choose to remove their mask outdoors, regardless of vaccination status.
Q: How do we handle Court Referrals/Court Ordered Volunteers?
Court Referrals/Court Ordered Volunteers or any other person in our work environments working are to
be handled just as any GIRE employee as they are in the work environment. They will need to fill out the
Self-Attestation Form, they the Manager or Shift Leader will need to make a copy of it to send to the GIRE
HR Department. The original is to be stapled to the time sheet of the Referral/Volunteer.
Q: What trainings do we do?
There are four trainings on Ascentis Self-Serve. 1. How to Safely put on an N95 Respirator (mask), 2.
How to Safety put on a KN95 mask, 3. COVID – 19 Training General, 4. Handwashing.
Q: Can the stores get a paper copy of the trainings?
Yes- request from the safety coordinator.
Q: What happens if someone refuses to wear their mask and we know they are unvaccinated?
We expect honesty from our co-workers and must trust that people are following the guidance from the
experts. This means we trust all those who self-certify that they are vaccinated and therefore are not
required to wear a mask.
Q: Employees at the Donation Door, how do they handle the mask and social distance
requirements?
Most DD attendants go in and out of the building; if they are unvaccinated they will need to wear their
masks. Outside if an unvaccinated employee cannot maintain social distancing then they will need to
wear their masks.
Q: Can we take down the sneeze guard barriers?
We are slowly rolling out changes. Currently, we are focused on following the new guidance on mask
requirements and social distancing. We’ve also removed tape and signage that is no longer applicable.
As for sneeze guards and other barriers, we will leave them in place for now. They provide a layer of
security for those who are unvaccinated. Additionally, should the situation change and we need to revisit
precautions, we will not have to go through installation of these barriers again.
A reminder that if you have a fever do NOT report to work, call your manager and let them know
you will be missing your shift.
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Post COVID-19 Employee Handbook Effective June 2021Benefits for Workers Impacted by COVID-19
Links with more info are underlined. Not all time off listed is job-protected. Please contact HR if you have questions.
Program Why What Benefits More Info How to File
California If you are unable to work Paid time if you need All employees are Learn more Contact HR
Supplemental due to reasons related to time off for self/family eligible for up to 80 about your for
Paid Sick Leave COVID-19 care related to COVID- hour (or prorated for eligibility assistance
(SPSL) 19 from January 1 – PT at 2 weeks
September 30, 2021 average)
State policy
Paid Leave If you’re unable to work Paid time off, to include Employee benefit for No waiting Submit
Benefits (PLB) (or tele-work) for any vacation, floating full-time eligible period to use through
reason: furloughed/ holiday and employees and accrued PLB. Ascentis Self-
GIRE policy
reduced hours due to administrative leave, eligible Associates. Service
No doctor’s
COVID-19, sick, upon request
note required
childcare, vacation,
to use
personal, etc.
Paid Sick Leave If you need time off for Paid sick leave is paid Employee benefit for No waiting Submit
(PSL) illness for self/family, out for eligible reasons CA part-time period to use through
medical appointments, or upon request based on employees only PSL Ascentis Self-
GIRE policy
other reasons approved your regular rate of service
No doctor’s
by CA guidelines pay, up to the
note required
maximum amount
allowable by the State
of CA
Family and If you are unable to work Unpaid job-protected All employees eligible Learn more Contact HR
Medical Leave (or tele-work) due to your leave for specified that have worked at about your for assistance
(FMLA) own medical situation or family and medical least 1250 hours in eligibility
because you are caring reasons the 12 months
Federal policy
for an ill family member, preceding the leave
California non-COVID-19
Family Rights
Act (CFRA)
State Policy
Unpaid Time You can request unpaid Unpaid time off All employees eligible No waiting Submit
time off for any reason. to request period through HR
GIRE policy
by manual
form
Unemployment If you have been Partial wage Range from $40-$450 Learn more File an
Insurance furloughed/had your replacement benefit per week for up to 26 about your Unemployme
hours partially or fully payments to workers weeks eligibility nt Insurance
State of CA
reduced for reasons who have their hours claim
policy
related to COVID-19 reduced, through no
fault of their own
10
Post COVID-19 Employee Handbook Effective June 2021Program Why What Benefits More Info How to File
Disability If you're unable to work Short-term benefit Approximately 60-70 Learn more File a
Insurance (or tele-work) due to payments to eligible percent of wages about your Disability
medical quarantine or workers who have a full (depending on eligibility Insurance
State of CA
illness related to COVID- or partial loss of wages income); ranges from claim
policy
19 (certified by a medical due to a non-work- $50-$1,300 a week for
professional) related illness, injury, up to 52 weeks
or pregnancy
Paid Family If you're unable to work Up to 8 weeks of Approximately 60-70 Learn more File a Paid
Leave (PFL) (or tele-work) because payments to eligible percent of wages about your Family Leave
you are caring for an ill or workers who have a full (depending on eligibility claim
State of CA
quarantined family or partial loss of wages income); ranges from
policy
member with COVID-19 because they need $50-$1,300 a week for
(certified by a medical time off work to care for up to 8 weeks
professional) a seriously ill family
member
11
Post COVID-19 Employee Handbook Effective June 2021Communications and Media
As a reminder, only authorized persons designated by the CEO and the Board of Directors are authorized
to issue statements about or on behalf of the company. All communications and media inquiries should
be directed to the CEO or Board of Directors.
Our Mission, Vision, and Values
Our mission is Changing Lives and Strengthening Communities through the Dignity and Power of Work.
We are a diverse and inclusive company with a focus on providing all of our team members with a chance
to invest in themselves for a better future.
We envision a future:
● Where everyone enjoys the benefits of earning a paycheck.
● Where every family member learns the promise of the power of work.
● Where every team member excels in their own professional, and personal, development.
At Goodwill ~ Redwood Empire, we embrace Compassion, Hard Work, Openness, Integrity,
Continuous Improvement, and Engagement.
Thank you for being a part of the Goodwill team. We are all in this together and together, we will get
through this unprecedented crisis and come out even stronger.
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Post COVID-19 Employee Handbook Effective June 2021General Education
How to reduce the spread of COVID-19:
You as an employee can take steps to protect yourself at work and at home. Older
people and people with serious chronic medical conditions are at higher risk of
complications. Higher risk individuals include:
o Asthma
o Chronic kidney disease being treated with dialysis
o Chronic lung disease
o Diabetes
o Hemoglobin disorders
o Immunocompromised
o Liver disease
o People age 65 or older
o People in nursing homes or long-term care facilities
o Serious heart conditions
o Severe obesity
Follow the safety guidelines related to illness, cleaning and disinfecting, work
meetings and travel.
Stay home if you are sick, except to get medical care.
Inform Human Resources if you have a sick family member at home with COVID-
19.
Know how it spreads:
The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus.
o Some recent studies have suggested that COVID-19 may be spread by
people who are not showing symptoms.
The virus is thought to spread mainly from person to person.
o Between people who are in close contact with one another (closer than 6
feet).
o Through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs,
sneezes or talks. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of
people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs.
Everyone should wash hands often:
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds especially
after you have been in a public place or after blowing your nose, coughing, or
sneezing.
If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains
70% or more alcohol. Cover all surfaces of your hands and rub them together for
a full 30 seconds.
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Post COVID-19 Employee Handbook Effective June 2021 Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
Cover coughs and sneezes:
Remember to always cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough
or sneeze or use the inside of your elbow.
Throw used tissues in the trash.
Immediately wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If
soap and water are not readily available, clean your hands with a hand sanitizer
that contains 70% or more alcohol for a full 30 seconds.
Clean and disinfect:
Clean AND disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily. This includes tables,
doorknobs, light switches, countertops, handles, desks, phones, keyboards,
toilets, faucets, and sinks.
If surfaces are dirty, clean them. Use detergent or soap and water prior to
disinfection.
Then, use a household disinfectant. Most common EPA-registered household
disinfectants will work such as:
o Ultra Clorox Brand Regular Bleach – 5Tbsp (1/3 cup) bleach per gallon or
4 Tsp bleach per quart
o Lysol Disinfectant Spray and Lysol Brand All Purpose Cleaner
These revised regulations dated 6/17/21 reflect the state’s latest COVID-19 public
health guidance. The updates include changes to face coverings and physical
distance requirements.
1. Fully vaccinated employees without symptoms do not need to be tested or
quarantined after close contacts with COVID-19 cases unless they have
symptoms.
2. No face covering requirements outdoors (except during outbreaks), regardless of
vaccination status, though workers must be trained on CDPH recommendations
for outdoor use of face coverings.
3. Employers may allow fully vaccinated employees not to wear face coverings
indoors, but must document their vaccination status. There are some settings
where CDPH requires face coverings regardless of vaccination status. In
outbreaks, all employees must wear face coverings indoors and outdoors when
six-feet physical distancing cannot be maintained, regardless of vaccination
status.
4. Employers must provide unvaccinated employees with approved respirators for
voluntary use when working indoors or in a vehicle with others, upon request.
5. Employers may not retaliate against employees for wearing face coverings.
6. No physical distancing or barrier requirements regardless of employee
vaccination status with the following exceptions:
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Post COVID-19 Employee Handbook Effective June 2021a. Employers must evaluate whether it is necessary to implement physical
distancing and barriers during an outbreak (3 or more cases in an
exposed group of employees)
b. Employers must implement physical distancing and barriers during a
major outbreak (20 or more cases in an exposed group of employees)
Current Information:
As of 5/13/21 - Masks are required on planes, buses, trains, and other forms of
public transportation traveling into, within, or out of the United States and in U.S.
transportation hubs such as airports and stations. Travelers are not required to
wear a mask in outdoor areas of a conveyance (like on a ferry or the top deck of
a bus). CDC recommends that travelers who are not fully vaccinated continue to
wear a mask and maintain physical distance when traveling.
COVID-19 vaccines are effective at preventing COVID-19 disease, especially
severe illness and death. COVID-19 vaccines reduce the risk of people
spreading COVID-19.The Center for Disease Control maintains a helpful tool at
https://www.vaccines.gov/. Clinics are listed by vaccine type, availability, and
distance from your location. You can also use the CDPH
https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CID/DCDC/Pages/COVID-
19/Covid19Vaccines.aspx
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Post COVID-19 Employee Handbook Effective June 2021Self-Assessment Prior to Starting Work Procedure
GIRE employees are required to perform a self-assessment each day prior to starting
work.
1. Prior to reporting to designated work site, all employees should conduct a self-
assessment of their health and call in sick to work if they have symptoms
consistent with COVID-19:
Fever of 100.0 degrees Fahrenheit or greater
Dry cough
Sore Throat
Shortness of breath
Chills
Muscle pain
Sudden loss of taste or smell
Fatigue
Congestion or runny nose
2. If the employee has had direct contact with a confirmed, presumptive
individual(s) in the past 14 days the employee should call in sick, stay home, and
contact their primary health care physician for further instructions.
Fully vaccinated employees do not need to quarantine
3. If at any time during the course of a work shift an employee begins experiencing
any of the symptoms listed above, they should notify their supervisor immediately
and go home.
4. All employees should be vigilant about all hygiene practices in order to limit
community spread of COVID-19, including:
Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
Stay home when you are sick, except to get medical care.
Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue.
Clean frequently touched surfaces and objects daily (e.g., tables,
countertops, light switches, doorknobs, and cabinet handles) using a
regular household detergent and water.
Wash your hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds, especially
after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose,
coughing, or sneezing. If soap and water are not readily available, use a
hand sanitizer that contains 70% or more alcohol. And always wash your
hands with soap and water if your hands are visibly dirty.
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Post COVID-19 Employee Handbook Effective June 2021What to Expect When Reporting to Work
Conduct a self-assessment before work each day.
Wash your hands upon arrival to work, after touching your face or facial
covering and when leaving work.
Make sure to have your PPE on and ready to start work before entering the
building, (Facial covering, gloves, glasses etc.) unless you have signed the
Self -Certification of Vaccination Status form.
Frequently disinfect your area.
If you are wearing a mask, bring a straw to drink your water as you will need
to place the straw under your facial covering.
Point to remember – if you are feeling ill, tell your Supervisor.
What to Do If You Are Sick
Each GIRE employee is required to follow these CDC guidelines.
If you have a fever of 100.0 degrees Fahrenheit or greater, cough, chills, muscle
pain, sore throat, shortness of breath, a sudden loss of taste or smell, fatigue,
congestion or runny nose you may have been exposed to COVID-19. Most people
that have mild illnesses are able to recover at home. If you think you may have been
exposed to COVID-19, keep track of your symptoms and contact your healthcare
provider immediately. Do not report to work if you have the above mentioned
symptoms or if someone in your home has been diagnosed with COVID-19.
Steps to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 if you are sick
Follow the steps below: If you are sick with COVID-19 or think you might have
COVID-19, follow the steps below to care for yourself and to help protect other
people in your home and community.
Stay home except to get medical care
Stay home. Most people with COVID-19 have mild illness and can recover at
home without medical care. Do not leave your home, except to get medical care.
Do not visit public areas.
Take care of yourself. Get rest and stay hydrated. Take over-the-counter
medicines, such as acetaminophen, to help you feel better.
Call before you get medical care and stay in touch with your doctor.
Be sure to get care as soon as possible if you think it is an emergency.
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Post COVID-19 Employee Handbook Effective June 2021 Avoid public transportation, ridesharing, or taxis.
Separate yourself from other people
As much as possible, stay in a specific room and away from other people and
pets in your home. If possible, you should use a separate bathroom. If you need
to be around other people or animals in or outside of the home, wear a facial
covering.
Monitor your symptoms
Symptoms of COVID-19 include, but are not limited to, fever, cough, sore throat,
shortness of breath, chills, muscle pain, a sudden loss of taste or smell, fatigue
and congestion/runny nose.
Follow care instructions from your healthcare provider and local health
department. Your local health authorities may give instructions on checking your
symptoms and reporting information.
When to Seek Emergency Medical Attention
Look for emergency warning signs* for COVID-19. If someone is showing any of
these signs, seek emergency medical care immediately
Trouble breathing
Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
New confusion
Inability to wake or stay awake
Bluish lips or face
*This list is not all possible symptoms. Please call your medical provider for any
other symptoms that are severe or concerning to you.
Call 911 or call ahead to your local emergency facility: Notify the operator that
you are seeking care for yourself or someone who has or may have COVID-19.
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Post COVID-19 Employee Handbook Effective June 2021Return to Work Criteria
Based on the updated recommendations, mandate and protocols from the Counties
of Sonoma, Napa and Mendocino, the CDC and Cal-OSHA, effective immediately,
our COVID-19 Exposure Plan has changed to the following:
COVID-19 cases with COVID-19 symptoms will not return to work until all the
following have occurred:
o An employee that tests positive for COVID-19 will be required to isolate for
10 days from the date of their first symptom or positive test result.
o Upon completion of isolation, an employee will be allowed back into the
work environment as long as at least 24 hours have passed since the
resolution of a fever without the use of fever-reducing medications and
their other symptoms have improved.
o A negative test result will not be needed to return to the work environment.
Asymptomatic COVID-19 case:
o COVID-19 cases that tested positive but never developed COVID-19
symptoms will not return to work until a minimum of 10 days have passed
since the date of specimen collection of their first positive COVID-19 test.
A negative test result will not be needed to return to the work
environment.
Exposure to a confirmed case:
o Employees who are fully vaccinated do not need to quarantine if they
have been exposed to a confirmed case.
o Unvaccinated employees who are exposed to a confirmed case should
quarantine for up to 14 days from the date they last had contact with a
confirmed case. (Quarantine means they must stay home for 14 days,
except to go to medical appointments, hospital, and they must wear a
mask when they leave their home).
o They should then follow this protocol:
Let their healthcare provider know when their exposure was.
If they don’t have a health care provider, call Public Health at (707)
565-4566.
If they develop symptoms, they should get tested immediately.
If positive refer to Return to Work Criteria COVID-19 cases with
symptoms and contact HR.
If no symptoms develop, get tested 8 days after exposure to
receive a Quarantine Release Letter from the County to present to
the GIRE HR Department.
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Post COVID-19 Employee Handbook Effective June 2021Self-Isolation vs. Quarantine
Self-isolation: A positive COVID-19 case would require a 10 day self-isolation period
from the date of the positive test or the date of the first symptom.
Quarantine: A Close Contact case requires up to a 14-day quarantine unless the
person is fully vaccinated. If the individual does not test, then they would be
required to fulfill the 14 day requirement. If the individual does test and it is a
negative result the individual may still be required to fulfill up to a 14 day requirement
and return to work on the 15th day. If the individual does test and it is a positive
result they would be required to self-isolate for 10 days from the date of the test or
their first symptom.
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Post COVID-19 Employee Handbook Effective June 2021How to Put on and Remove a Facial Covering
If you are wearing a mask, regardless of vaccination status, the following types of
facial coverings do not comply with the Health Order:
Halloween or plastic masks;
Ski masks with holes for the nose or mouth;
Masks that have a one-way valve designed for easier breathing (the valves are
often a raised plastic disk about the size of a quarter, on the front or side of the
mask).
The following guidelines show the type of material for your facial coverings:
Thicker, more densely woven cotton fabrics are best, such as quilting cotton
or cotton sheets.
Stretchy knits aren’t ideal.
Hold the fabric up to the light: The fewer tiny holes you can see, the better it
will work to filter droplets.
Overall, you want fabric that doesn’t allow droplets to pass through while
ensuring you can still breathe properly with your mask in place.
How to put on a facial covering:
1. Clean your hands with soap and water or hand sanitizer before touching the
facial covering.
2. Determine which side of the facial covering is the top. The side that has a stiff
bendable edge is the top and is meant to mold to the shape of your nose.
3. Determine which side of the facial covering is the front.
4. Follow the instructions below for the type of facial covering you are using.
o Facial Covering with Ear loops: Hold by the ear loops. Place a loop
around each ear.
o Facial Covering with Ties: Bring the facial covering to your nose level and
place the ties over the crown of your head and secure with a bow.
o Facial Covering with Bands: Hold the facial covering in your hand with the
nosepiece or top of the covering at fingertips, allowing the headbands to
hang freely below hands. Bring the facial covering to your nose level and
pull the top strap over your head so that it rests over the crown of your
head. Pull the bottom strap over your head so that it rests at the nape of
your neck.
5. Mold or pinch the stiff edge to the shape of your nose.
6. If using a facial covering with ties: Then take the bottom ties, one in each hand,
and secure with a bow at the nape of your neck.
7. Pull the bottom of the facial covering over your mouth and chin.
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Post COVID-19 Employee Handbook Effective June 2021How to remove a facial covering:
1. Clean your hands with soap and water or hand sanitizer before touching the
facial covering. Avoid touching the front of the covering. The front of the covering
is contaminated. Only touch the ear loops/ties/band. Follow the instructions
below for the type of facial covering you are using.
2. Facial Covering with Ear loops: Hold both of the ear loops and gently lift and
remove the covering.
3. Facial Covering with Ties: Untie the bottom bow first then untie the top bow and
pull the covering away from you as the ties are loosened.
4. Facial Covering with Bands: Lift the bottom strap over your head first then pull
the top strap over your head.
5. Throw the covering in the trash or if fabric, wash after use. Clean your hands with
soap and water or hand sanitizer.
Note. Disposable facial coverings should be used once and then thrown in the trash.
You should also remove and replace when they become moist. Wash fabric facial
coverings after use.
These instructions do not apply to N95 or other types of respirators. If you are
using a respirator, contact the Safety Coordinator for training on proper use
and fit.
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Post COVID-19 Employee Handbook Effective June 2021Proper Hand Washing Procedure
GIRE employees are required to follow these guidelines while at work. You can help
yourself and your loved ones stay healthy by washing your hands often, especially
during these key times when you are likely to get and spread germs:
Before, during, and after preparing food
Before eating food
Before and after treating a cut or wound
After using the toilet
After blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing
After touching garbage
The best way to prevent transmission of the novel coronavirus is washing your
hands -- thoroughly -- with soap and water, according to the Centers for Disease
Control and Prevention.
Step 1
Wet your hands with clean, running water. Soap up your hands. Soap is more
effective at removing germs than water alone.
Step 2
Work the soap into a lather by rubbing your hands together. Lather soap onto the
backs of your hands, in between your fingers and under your nails. Lathering causes
friction, which strips germs and dirt from the skin. Be sure to get into the nooks and
crannies, too -- germs lurk there.
Step 3
Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds. Sing or hum "Happy Birthday" twice
through to keep time. There is no magic number but washing your hands for at least
20 seconds has been shown to remove more microbes than washing for shorter
periods does.
Step 4
Rinse your hands well under clean, running water. You have lifted the germs from
your hands. Clean water flushes them off.
Step 5
Dry your hands using a clean towel or air-dry them (or a bit of both). Wet hands
easily transfer viruses. Drying them off lessens that risk.
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Post COVID-19 Employee Handbook Effective June 2021Cleaning and Disinfecting Protocols
GIRE requires that you follow these guidelines when performing your normal office
duties:
Cleaning with products containing soap or detergent reduces germs on surfaces
by removing contaminants and decreases risk of infection from surfaces.
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.
Disinfecting (using U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)’s List N
disinfectantsexternal icon) kills any remaining germs on surfaces, which further
reduces any risk of spreading infection.
You may want to either clean more frequently or choose to disinfect (in addition
to cleaning) in shared spaces if the space is a high traffic area or if certain
conditions apply that can increase the risk of infection from touching surfaces:
High transmission of COVID-19 in your community;
Low vaccination rates in your community;
Infrequent use of other prevention measures, such as mask wearing (among
unvaccinated people) and hand hygiene; or
The space is occupied by people at increased risk for severe illness from COVID-
19
If there has been a sick person or someone who tested positive for COVID-19 in
your facility within the last 24 hours, you should clean AND disinfect the space.
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Post COVID-19 Employee Handbook Effective June 2021Bloodborne Pathogens and Universal Precautions
You may have heard the term "universal precautions" in connection with preventing the
spread of serious illnesses.
What does that mean? In short, it means you should protect yourself from coming into
contact with blood and other bodily fluids because of the chance you could catch a
serious illness.
In some industries such as health care, specific procedures must be followed to prevent
the spread of infection. For the rest of us, we need to know and follow universal
precautions in certain situations for our own safety.
For instance, if you ever have to assist an accident victim who is bleeding from an
injury, you must protect yourself to avoid the chance of becoming infected by potentially
deadly viruses like HBV which causes hepatitis B, hepatitis C and HIV, which causes
AIDS, or any other bloodborne illnesses. Do not touch blood or any bodily fluids, which
may contain blood. Do not give mouth to mouth rescue breathing without proper
protection. Do not clean up blood or bodily fluids unless you are trained and completely
equipped to do this.
Here are some reminders about preventing the spread of bloodborne illnesses by
observing universal precautions:
Always treat blood and bodily fluids as potentially infectious.
Wash your hands well after an exposure, even if you have been wearing gloves.
Wear approved gloves made of latex, vinyl or rubber to handle blood or bodily
fluids or when cleaning wounds.
Carry one or more pair of gloves in your vehicle and your first aid kit, in case you
need to help someone injured in a vehicle accident.
Properly dispose of these gloves after helping an injured person - do not reuse
them.
Don't share personal care items such as razors or toothbrushes.
Don't touch needles, syringes or condoms you may find. Handle potentially
infectious items with gloves and put them in plastic bags for disposal. To dispose
of needles, pick them up with pliers or tongs and place them in a puncture-proof
plastic container.
If you are accidentally pricked with a used needle, let the wound bleed freely and
wash with soap and water. Contact a hospital emergency room or a public health
agency immediately.
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Post COVID-19 Employee Handbook Effective June 2021 To clean up spills of blood and other bodily fluids, use a paper towel or other
absorbent disposable material, while protecting yourself with gloves. Place the
towel in a plastic bag for disposal.
Use a disinfectant or bleach to clean up the area after removing blood. The
concentration should be one part bleach to ten parts water.
Taking sensible precautions is the key to preventing the spread of bloodborne illnesses.
Take advantage of opportunities to learn about these so you can act out of knowledge,
not fear or ignorance.
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Post COVID-19 Employee Handbook Effective June 2021You can also read
