The University eases coronavirus restrictions starting from 1 October and moves to the green light stage of the coronavirus traffic light model on all campuses. Restrictions on the number of people in indoor spaces are lifted, but close contacts must still be avoided and face masks must be used when necessary.
The traffic light model for the coronavirus situation defines the level of safety measures at the University of Turku. The coronavirus management team of the University of Turku has decided that the University moves to the green light stage which has less restrictions. The move to the green light stage is possible as it seems that the University‘s safety measures work well enough and no extensive transmission chains have been detected at the University during the first period.
Observing the safety measures that are still in force is very important. Unnecessary close contacts must be avoided in the University’s facilities. If close contacts cannot be avoided, masks are used according to the regional recommendations. This applies especially to teaching situations and using joint indoor facilities. The University also recommends that everyone takes a coronavirus vaccination.
The restriction on a maximum number of 50 people in the same space that was in force at the University has now been lifted. This enables organising contact teaching for large groups in the second period starting from 25 October. The decision is not applied to the teaching arrangements in the first period, for example, ongoing mass lectures do not have to be changed into contact teaching for the rest of the first period.
The University’s current remote work policy is in force until the end of the first period, 24 October. However, personnel can already return to work on campus. At the beginning of the second period on 25 October, personnel returns to work on campus regularly, unless the supervisor has agreed with the employee on possible new work practices in accordance with the renewed guideline on remote and multi-locational work. The University’s new guideline on remote and multi-locational work will be approved and published at the beginning of October.
Gradual Return to Face-to-face Interaction
The coronavirus management team of the University of Turku decided earlier in September that if the epidemic allows it, the coronavirus restrictions will be eased by the second period of the autumn semester. The aim is to return to everyday campus life, where close contacts can be increased as safely as possible. The second period starts on 25 October 2021.
Vice Rector Piia Björn who is responsible for education emphasises that encounters and interaction are needed this autumn. The University is gradually returning to normal and the direction is clear: restrictions are lifted and possibilities to meet on campus are increased.
– The coronavirus situation has required exceptional effort from the University community. We will move forwards together and the well-being of our community is a foundation on which we can build upon, says Vice Rector Björn.
> University’s instructions on the coronavirus situation
Please send any further inquiries and questions primarily by email to koronainfo@utu.fi.