Liberal Telework Policy Regarding Coronavirus

As the situation with the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) continues to evolve, we want to reiterate that the protection and care of the NASA family is our top priority. As such, we want to provide an update on new specific actions being taken to help keep us safe at Ames. 

Telework Policy

Currently, the Center remains open and without access restrictions (except for employees who have returned in the last 14 days from the areas of major concern). 

Given the current situation, the Center is authorizing a liberal telework policy for employees until further notice. Teleworkers should be prepared to work from home and must coordinate with their supervisors to discuss telework options and arrangements. As the situation develops, the Center will provide updated guidance to employees. 

For contractor employees, it is your company's corporate policies, as well as the specific contract or other agreement between your organization and NASA that will determine work requirements. Contractor employees should contact their contractor management staff. Contractor management staff who have questions regarding the impact of Federal government employee telework arrangements and their implications to their contractor workforce should contact their contracting officers.

Situation Response Team
To ensure preparedness, the Center has stood up a situation response team consisting of multiple org and division representatives. Beginning Monday, the team will meet regularly to address issues as they arise. Working closely with NASA Headquarters, the team will assess the latest developments of COVID-19 and determine any next-level action necessary, according to a phased evidence-based risk approach established by the Agency. 

CDC Prevention Guidance
We reiterate the CDC's guidance for prevention: The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus. However, as a reminder, CDC always recommends everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory diseases, including: 

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
• Follow CDC's recommendations for using a facemask.
• CDC does not recommend that people who are well wear a facemask to protect themselves from respiratory diseases, including COVID-19.
• Facemasks should be used by people who show symptoms of COVID-19 to help prevent the spread of the disease to others. The use of facemasks is also crucial for health workers and people who are taking care of someone in close settings at home or in a health care facility).
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 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 an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.

If you have questions about this CDC guidance, please contact David King at 4-1316. This guidance will be updated as required.

Lastly, the Agency has posted Frequently Asked Questions and information on the Human Resources site, and will continue to update it as the situation evolves. 

Sincerely, 

Verron "Ron" Brade 
Associate Center Director 

Posted in Office of the Center Director
3/2/20 3/3/20
Philip R. Fluegemann (650.604.5302)