Masks

Masks

WV DHHR Hotline
1-800-887-4304
 

If you have a specific question regarding general University procedures, please email coronavirus@fairmontstate.edu.

Are masks required to be worn outdoors as well as indoors on campus?

For the Fall 2022 semester, the University will continue to base its campus COVID safety protocols on a color code system in conjunction with tracking from the COVID-19 Taskforce. Updates will be communicated to the campus community if and when the alert colors change. Updates will be made on a weekly basis to avoid confusion. To view a detailed list of scenarios, please view the COVID-19 Campus Protocols page.
The University is currently operating under STANDARD COVID-19 Protocols, which means:
  • Masking is optional in classrooms and laboratory spaces.
  • Students involved in off-campus learning experiences, including those in school and healthcare settings, are required to follow the policies in place at that location. This includes policies related to COVID-19, such as masks, PPE and vaccinations.
  • Masks will not be required in outdoor areas, inside residence halls or in campus offices. Any individual may continue to wear a mask as they feel comfortable.    

Are Fairmont State-branded masks required or may we wear personal masks

You may wear your own mask as long as it adheres to CDC guidelines for face coverings and it does not display any offensive messages/language

What should I do if I don’t or can’t wear a mask?

Students with a disability who are unable to wear a mask may request a reasonable modification to the University’s mandatory mask policy. To begin this process, students should contact the Office of Accessibility Services at access@fairmontstate.edu to schedule an appointment. Students will be required to provide documentation that verifies they meet the ADA definition of a person with a disability (i.e., a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities) and describes the needed modification. Reasonable modifications may include the use of a face shield, curbside pick-up, online participation in programming as well as others. Students with questions may contact the Office of Accessibility Services at access@fairmontstate.edu or (304) 333-3661.

Faculty and staff who want to seek a modification should contact HR@fairmontstate.edu to discuss their needs.

When are plexiglass face shields acceptable replacements for masks/face coverings?

According to the CDC, it is not known if face shields provide any benefit as source control to protect others from the spray of respiratory particles. CDC does not recommend use of face shields for normal everyday activities or as a substitute for masks. Some people may choose to use a face shield when sustained close contact with other people is expected. If face shields are used without a mask, they should wrap around the sides of the wearer’s face and extend to below the chin. Disposable face shields should only be worn for a single use. Reusable face shields should be cleaned and disinfected after each use.

Where do we get a mask if we forget one or don’t have one?

You can purchase inexpensive masks at the campus Bound for Success Bookstore.

What consequences do students and employees face if they refuse to wear a mask or face covering on campus?

Failure of students to comply with the University’s Student Code of Conduct regarding personal protective equipment (PPE), such as masks and face coverings, will result in one or more of the following measures: written warning, removal from class, probation, suspension and/or expulsion from the University. Students will have an opportunity to provide information about any extenuating circumstances that may apply. Consequences will be based on the specifics of each student’s situation. 

Failure by employees to follow these safety protocols may result in counseling and/or disciplinary action — up to and including termination of employment — in accordance with Fairmont State University Board of Governors’ Policy 64 and HEPC Series 9.

MASK REQUIREMENTS

Cloth coverings worn on campus should:

  • Fit over the nose and mouth and fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face
  • Be secured with ties or ear loops
  • Include multiple layers of fabric
  • Allow for breathing without restriction
  • Only be worn for one day and must be properly cleaned before they are used again
  • Not be used if they become wet or contaminated
  • Be replaced with clean substitutes, as needed
  • Be handled as little as possible
  • Not be worn with or instead of respiratory protection when respirators are needed 
Students with a disability who are unable to wear a mask may request a reasonable modification to the University’s mandatory mask policy. To begin this process, students should contact the Office of Accessibility Services at access@fairmontstate.edu to schedule an appointment. Students will be required to provide documentation that verifies they meet the ADA definition of a person with a disability (i.e., a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities) and describes the needed modification. Reasonable modifications may include the use of a face shield, curbside pick-up, online participation in programming as well as others. Students with questions may contact the Office of Accessibility Services at access@fairmontstate.edu or (304) 333-3661. 

 Faculty and staff who want to seek a modification should contact HR@fairmontstate.edu to discuss their needs.

Failure to Comply

For Students: Failure of students to comply with the University’s Student Code of Conduct regarding personal protective equipment (PPE), such as masks and face coverings, will result in one or more of the following measures: written warning, removal from class, probation, suspension and/or expulsion from the University. Students will have an opportunity to provide information about any extenuating circumstances that may apply. Consequences will be based on the specifics of each student’s situation. 

For Employees: Failure by employees to follow these safety protocols may result in counseling and/or disciplinary action — up to and including termination of employment — in accordance with Fairmont State University Board of Governors’ Policy 64 and HEPC Series 9.

HOW TO WEAR (AND REMOVE) YOUR MASK

Putting on Your Mask

  • Wash your hands before putting it on.
  • Make sure it’s completely covering your nose and mouth.
  • Secure it under your chin.
  • Fit it as snugly as possible to the sides of your face.
  • Check to make sure you can breathe easily; if not, readjust or try a different type of mask.
  • Once your mask is on, don’t touch it. If you do, wash your hands.

Removing Your Mask

  • Untie or unloop the mask from behind your head or ears. If wearing a neck gaiter, pull the mask up and off your face from the back, being careful not to touch the front.
  • Handle your mask only by the ties or loops if possible.
  • Fold the outside corners together and place immediately in a washing machine or throw away if disposable.
  • Be careful not to touch your eyes, nose or mouth after removing it.
  • Wash your hands for a full 20 seconds after removing.

HOW TO CLEAN YOUR MASK


  • Wash cloth masks after each use.
  • Feel free to wash the mask with your regular laundry.
  • Use regular detergent and the warmest appropriate water setting.
  • Completely dry your face mask after each washing, using the highest heat setting.

As with prior Fairmont State publications, these materials are meant to be consistent with guidance published by the federal, state, and local governments and the associated health agencies. This document is reflective of the relevant scientific and medical information available at the time of publication. These materials are not and should not be used as a substitute for medical or legal advice. Rather, they are intended as a resource for use in coordination with applicable government and related institutional policies and guidelines, and they remain subject to further revision as available data and information in this space continue to emerge and evolve.

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