What’s changing as Ontario removes public health restrictions?

This message was originally sent to the UWaterloo Community by Vivek Goel, President and Vice-Chancellor and James W. E. Rush, Vice-President, Academic and Provost.

Tomorrow the Government of Ontario will move to the Exit Step of its Roadmap to Reopen. This move will lift the majority of remaining public health restrictions, and this will mean some changes to our operations on our campuses. Here’s what you need to know.

Vaccination policy

As we confirmed on February 7, and in line with all other Ontario universities, our proof of vaccination requirement will remain in place until at least the end of the Winter term.

We continue to keep this policy under review and expect to update our community before the start of the Spring term.

We also encourage anyone who is eligible to get a booster shot of the vaccine as soon as possible. Pop up vaccine clinics are back at the Student Life Centre (located in the old W Store location) today from  1:30 p.m. to 3:45 p.m. and  Wednesday, March 2  9:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m.  Health Services also offers vaccines daily.

Masking requirements

Masks remain mandatory in all indoor spaces and outdoors where you cannot maintain 2 meters of physical distancing. The University has appropriate options for face coverings available at no cost to units for employees and students. Check information on the COVID-19 website for more.

Active daily screening requirement (Campus Check-in)

Starting tomorrow, the government no longer requires the University to actively ask people coming to the campus to complete a screening questionnaire – also known as Campus Check-in. Campus Check-in will continue to send an email each day you come to campus reminding you to stay home if have symptoms of COVID-19 or have been exposed.

Dining and food services

Capacity limits in indoor dining spaces will be lifted tomorrow. You should wear a mask in these spaces except when you are seated to eat or drink.

Campus recreation and athletics

Capacity limits in athletics facilities will be lifted tomorrow. Check the Warriors website for more details on accessing athletics and recreation facilities.

Study and Lounge areas

Many spaces around the campus are open for use as study areas. As of March 1, these spaces are not subject to capacity limits. You must wear a mask at all times, except when seated to eat or drink.

Employees working in shared spaces

If your workspace is not accessible to the public and allows you to maintain two meters physical distance from others, you are able to remove your mask.

You should talk to your supervisor about your unit’s plan to return to working in-person on campus.

Meetings and events

In-person meetings are permitted and must follow the face covering policy. If your meeting space allows you to keep two meters distance between all participants, you may remove your mask.

Research and travel

All research, including human-participant research, has resumed. Check our update from February 17 for details. 
 
Domestic and international travel for University business may resume today following the usual approval processes.