Social distancing is deliberately increasing the physical space between people to avoid spreading illness. Individuals need to stand at least 6 feet (approximately 2 meters) apart to limit virus spread.
Research indicates that respiratory droplets from an individual do not travel farther than 6 feet. By staying at least six feet away from other people, you will decrease your chances of catching or spreading COVID-19. Social distancing is important to consider in the workplace, at home, and in your neighborhood.
This is the most frequent route of transmission for infectious viruses and occurs via direct inhalation of respiratory droplets during close contact. Exposure is at its highest when people are:
“Personal protective equipment, commonly referred to as ‘PPE’, is equipment worn to minimize exposure to hazards that cause serious workplace injuries and illnesses. These injuries and illnesses may result from contact with chemical, radiological, physical, electrical, mechanical, or other workplace hazards. Personal protective equipment may include items such as gloves, safety glasses and shoes, earplugs or muffs, hard hats, respirators, or coveralls, vests and full body suits.” https://www.osha.gov/personal-protective-equipment
A mask (cloth or fabric) face covering is required at all times while on campus, except while eating or working alone in a private office or space, with the door closed.
The Primary or Principal Investigator (PI) is the primary individual responsible for the preparation, conduct, execution, and administration of a research grant, cooperative agreement, training or public service project, contract, or other research projects in compliance with applicable laws and regulations and institutional policy governing the conduct of research.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is a national public health institute in the United States. It is a United States federal agency, under the Department of Health and Human Services. https://www.cdc.gov/
With the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, Congress created the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to ensure safe and healthful working conditions for working men and women by setting and enforcing standards and by providing training, outreach, education and assistance. https://www.osha.gov
The Office for Human Research Protections (OHRP) provides leadership in the protection of the rights, welfare, and wellbeing of human subjects involved in research conducted or supported by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). OHRP is part of the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Health in the Office of the Secretary of HHS. https://www.hhs.gov/ohrp/
The process of finding, listing, and characterizing hazards.
The overall process of hazard identification, risk analysis, and risk evaluation. TC Office of Risk Management: https://www.tc.columbia.edu/controller/risk-management/
The process of comparing an estimated risk against given risk criteria to determine the significance of the risk.
Teachers College Preparedness
Phone: (212) 678-3111 Email: returntocampus@tc.columbia.edu