Communicable Disease Policy

Responsible Executive: Executive Vice President

Responsible Office: Environmental Health and Safety (EHS)

Contacts: Please direct questions concerning this policy to EHS at [email protected]. 

Effective Date: July 8, 2020

I.    Policy Statement

Princeton University seeks to address communicable disease in a responsible and timely manner, consistent with applicable public health guidance and legal requirements, taking into account factors such as the nature of the condition, the severity of the condition, the health and well-being of our campus community, and privacy considerations of our campus community. The University’s plans and responses are made in the context of the University’s 24/7 residential, educational, workplace, and community setting.

II.    Who Is Affected by This Policy

This policy applies to all Princeton University students, faculty, and staff.

III.    Policy

In the interest of public health, to manage and reduce the possible transmission of communicable diseases, the University may implement a range of policies, guidelines, and protocols, temporary and/or long-term, including but not limited to:

  • Screening and testing requirements
  • Immunization and medical surveillance: campus environment and/or job related requirements for vaccinations
  • Use of personal protective equipment
  • Quarantine and isolation
  • Disease reporting, contact tracing, and symptom surveillance
  • Medical care, benefits, and time off
    • Medical determination for short-term disability and reasonable accommodations
  • Adjustments to academic and administrative operations, work schedules, and instruction
  • Restriction on in-person and on-site gatherings and events
  • Limitations to campus and building access
  • Cleaning measures and protocols
  • Travel restrictions
  • Training requirements
  • Other precautionary health and welfare measures or requirements that are deemed appropriate by University leadership.

To the extent any such policies, guidelines, protocols or requirements for safe on-campus operations are implemented by the University pursuant to this policy, they shall be considered mandatory or required of all those described as affected by the terms of such policies, guidelines, protocols or requirements. Violations of such measures may be considered particularly serious disciplinary matters given the health and safety impacts to the campus community.

The University takes seriously confidentiality and nondiscrimination responsibilities associated with communicable disease. Collecting and disclosing information relating to the health of members of our community, including their health conditions, test results, and the like, are based on the operational needs of the University, applicable public health guidance, and applicable legal requirements. Discrimination and acts of bias relating to the use of such information are not tolerated.  

Princeton University encourages its community to work together to prevent transmission of communicable diseases and recognizes each individual’s responsibility to prevent transmission and spread. All members of the University community must comply with these policies. Individuals may submit requests for exceptions and reasonable accommodations to the appropriate University office. 

Employees whose occupations place them at higher risk of exposure may be subject to additional policies and protective measures. 

Individuals who need to report a violation should speak with their manager or access established University reporting channels.
 

IV.    Related Policies

All associated temporary or permanent enacted policies, guidelines, and protocols

V. Update Log

Endorsed by Environmental Safety and Risk Management Committee July 8, 2020.

Updated August 30, 2020.

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