Spring Update

From: Cheryl Regehr, Vice-President & Provost
Kelly Hannah-Moffat, Vice-President, People Strategy, Equity & Culture
Date: March 4, 2022
Re: Spring Update


Thanks to the hard work and dedication of our community members in adapting to changing public health regulations, we were able to welcome large numbers of our students, faculty, librarians, and staff back to our campuses on February 7. We continue to follow public health advice to promote safety on our campuses and wellness within our community.

Ontario entered the Roadmap Exit Step of the province’s Reopening Plan on March 1, 2022, and as a result, many public health restrictions have been relaxed or removed. We are writing to provide information regarding changes to Public Health directives that can be used for planning activities across the University.

Masking

Individuals must continue to be masked in indoor spaces. The University continues to recommend the use of medical-grade masks where possible.

Capacity Limits and Physical Distancing

Capacity limits and physical distancing in indoor spaces such as offices, meeting rooms, event spaces, food service areas, and gyms are no longer required. Units can exercise discretion regarding distancing in their workspaces, taking into consideration the comfort levels and health needs of those working in or visiting the spaces.

Vaccination

In addition to the regulatory changes above, the University will continue to require proof of vaccination for those attending our campuses until at least the end of the academic term, in line with the announcement from the Council of Ontario Universities.

Health Screening

Individuals attending our premises must continue to complete health screening via Ucheck, and to adhere to any isolation requirements in the event they do not pass the health screening questions.

Health and Safety

We have learned a lot about keeping ourselves and others healthy during the pandemic. Units should consider ongoing best practices including regular disinfection of spaces, provision of hand sanitizer, and maintaining enhanced ventilation of spaces where possible.

Wellness  

We recognize that the recent provincial announcements may cause uncertainty for some members of our community. We encourage anyone who needs support to please reach out for assistance. 

U of T’s My Student Support Program (My SSP) provides students with real-time and/or appointment-based confidential, 24-hour support for any school, health, or general life concern at no cost. 

The Employee & Family Assistance Program (EFAP) is available to employees of the University of Toronto. This program is provided at no cost 24/7 and 365 days a year. Call toll free 1-800-663-1142.  

Questions? 

  • For general questions regarding the University’s COVID-19 response, please visit the University’s UTogether site
  • Students – please contact your registrar’s office regarding your courses and academic programs 
  • Faculty and librarians – please contact your dean, chair, director, or supervisor 
  • Staff – please contact your manager and/or divisional HR office