Staff information

Fall 2020 is underway, and unfortunately, fires, evacuations, and power outages are already impacting our community, all in the midst of a pandemic. First and foremost, make sure you and your loved ones are safe from the fires and smoke and COVID. If you are evacuated or impacted by the fires in our North Bay region, please be sure you notify your appropriate administrator. 

We anticipate evacuations, air quality issues, and power outages may continue to occur over the next few days, and perhaps throughout the fall semester. All of these factors may be disruptive to the continuity of University operations. These outages may impact your home work environment. We recognize that when evacuations occur or when power is shut down at your home, you may not be able to access the internet and computer equipment necessary to complete your work assignments. 

General considerations:

  • Be safe. Take care of yourself and your family. 

  • Be aware that fires, evacuations, and power outages will affect some members of the community and not others. You may not know who has been impacted and who has not. 

  • Plan ahead where possible

    • Keep your computer/device(s) charged.

    • If you have time sensitive work that needs to be completed, please prioritize that work. If the power is out or you need to evacuate, you might not be able to access the internet to download or submit work products.

    • Download materials so you are able to continue working if internet access is unavailable or goes out suddenly.

  • Consider utilizing our Employee Assistance Program which is a benefit to support our Faculty, Staff and their families during times, such as these.  More information can be found on the Payroll and Benefits website.

  • Human Resources can provide assistance with appropriate leave status as necessary to address your individual situation.

  •  When in doubt, please remember to communicate with your manager/appropriate administrator. 

Can the university provide me with space and equipment to work if the power is out or I am evacuated?

Due to the current pandemic and the guidance provided from the State of California (COVID-19 Industry Guidance for Institutions of Higher Education), available University spaces are extremely limited. We may be able to provide “one-time” and or short-term working spaces for those impacted by extended power outages and/or evacuations. Any request for space must be made through the Short-Term, On-Campus Visit Requests process.