COVID-19 Employee Guide
UB continues to adjust our workplace to protect our community during this fast-changing and unpredictable pandemic. UB employees are advised to stay informed of the university’s most recent COVID-19 protocols.
For more information or help with employee COVID-19 concerns, please contact:
UB Human Resources
716-645-7777
ub-hr@buffalo.edu
2022-2023 Academic Year Health and Safety Guidelines
Updated 1/9/2023
| Form | Description | Link |
|---|---|---|
| Proof of Vaccination or Booster for Employees | Employees can submit proof of vaccination or booster to Human Resources. By submitting this proof, you will be exempt from mandatory weekly surveillance testing. | COVID-19 Proof of Vaccination and Booster for Employees |
| Acknowledgment of Workplace Health and Safety Provisions | All employees are expected to submit this form acknowledging their obligation to follow updated COVID-19 return-to-work guidance from SUNY and the Governor’s Office of Employee Relations (GOER). | Acknowledgment of Workplace Health and Safety Provisions for Employees (UBITName login required) |
| Flexible Work Program Application | Faculty and staff may use this form to request flexible work such as a compressed work week, flexible start and end times and telecommuting. Applications may be submitted at any time; there is no specified application period. | Flexible Work Program Application |
It’s normal to experience increased stress and anxiety right now. Be gentle with yourself and others, and take steps to support your own and your family’s mental welllbeing.
UB employees who are concerned about their safety in returning to work on campus should speak with their supervisors. UB will address specific issues and situations on a one-on-one basis.
Self Care and Well-being
UB community members may be experiencing high amounts of anxiety and stress related to the COVID-19 pandemic and the changes it has forced on our lives. UB is committed to helping all members of the campus community cope with mental and emotional challenges.
When You Need Assistance
Taking care of your emotional health during this uncertain time will help you think clearly, prioritize your concerns and react appropriately to protect yourself and your family.
UB Employee Assistance Program (EAP) staff can offer guidance to help you reset your thoughts and emotions, and regain your balance. EAP provides information, assessment, problem-solving and referral services for all university faculty, staff, their families and retirees on any work or life concern. EAP services are free, voluntary and confidential.
How Well Are You Coping? Quick Tests
If you’re not sure if you need help, take these two quick, anonymous tests. They can help you think about how well you're coping. Then contact EAP for help or if you just need someone to talk to about your thoughts.
Self-care refers to activities and practices that we can engage in on a regular basis to reduce stress and enhance our health and well-being. Practicing self-care will help you:
- Identify and manage the general challenges of life and work.
- Be aware of your own personal vulnerabilities and traumas.
- Achieve more balance in your life.
These free tools designed from UB faculty experts are available to all employees.
Self-Care Starter Kit from UB School of Social Work
Mindful Self-Care Scale from Catherine Cook-Cottone, UB Graduate School of Education, Department of Counseling, School and Educational Psychology.
Wellness Activities
UB offers training in a variety of wellness skills and techniques. Check out the HR Training Catalog for more information.
Exercise and Well-being
Exercise plays an important role in well-being and mental health. UB Recreation Services offers several mostly free resources and classes that can be done inside with limited space and equipment. We may be practicing social distancing, but we can still work out and stay fit both physically and mentally.
Source: Human Resources
COVID-19 Symptoms
New information about COVID-19 symptoms is being confirmed often. As of this writing, common COVID-19 symptoms include the following. Symptoms may appear two to 14 days after exposure to the virus. Please be sure to check the CDC website for the latest known COVID-19 Symptoms.
People with these symptoms may have COVID-19:
- Fever or chills
- Cough
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Fatigue
- Muscle or body aches
- Headache
- New loss of taste or smell
- Sore throat
- Congestion or runny nose
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea
Resources
You can learn more about UB’s and New York State’s guidelines and protocols for COVID-19 from these resources:
COVID-19: UB Planning and Response
- Health and safety information for the university community
- How UB is moving forward during COVID-19
Student Guidance
- Staying healthy together
- Living and dining tips
- Campus resources
- Get the most from your experience
Research Ramp Up and Guidance
- Guidance for resuming research activities
- Lab ramp-up checklists and policies