COVID-19 Update for the Campus Community

February 17, 2022 4:30 PM

Earlier this week, the provincial government announced that Ontario would be moving to the next phase of reopening. We are writing to provide information on how this will impact our campus community.  

As outlined on January 14, our phased return to campus included second-, third- and fourth-year undergraduate- and graduate-level courses as well as second-entry professional programs. On Monday, February 28, our next phase includes all first-year undergraduate level courses resuming in person.  

As we work together to maintain the health of our community, this new phase will continue to adhere to a number of health and safety guidelines with the goal of remaining in-person for the rest of the term.  

We want to sincerely thank you for your understanding and patience throughout the many changes that have been required of us during this pandemic. Please remember that we are here to support you.   

Effective Thursday, February 17 

Vaccination policy and masking requirements 

Western’s vaccination policy and mandatory masking remains in place. Since early January, Western has provided medical-grade (ASTM Level 3) masks that will continue to be worn when indoors on campus, as well as outdoors when physical distancing is not possible.  

You can pick up these medical-grade masks at Western Libraries using your Western ONECard when you return to campus.   

Employees working in a shared space  

Employees: If you work in a shared space with open cubicles, you are permitted to remove your mask while seated and physically distanced. Instructors behind a barrier at the front of a classroom may remove masks.  

Employees who are working from home are encouraged to speak to their leaders regarding arrangements for returning to campus. 

Research, scholarship and creative activities 

All research, scholarship and creative activities may proceed when performed within the continuing guidelines for cleaning, physical distancing and masking. Off-campus participants/visitors are welcome to participate in research in accordance with MAPP 3.1.1. For international research and scholarship guidance, please consult current travel policies.  

Visit the Western Research COVID-19 Updates website for current information. 

Activities on campus 

Spectators and visitors will be permitted to attend campus with proof of vaccination and mandatory masking. This includes sporting events, performances and the McIntosh Gallery.  

Effective Tuesday, March 1 

Vaccination policy and masking requirements 

Western’s vaccination policy and mandatory masking remains in place as outlined above. 

Campus eateries  

All dining areas will operate at full capacity with the exception of high-density locations such as Centre Spot and Nucleus. Seating at the Nucleus will remain closed. For all open eating spaces, masks may be removed while seated for eating and drinking.  

Campus Sport and Recreation 

Masking will be required at all times in the Western Student Recreation Centre. Intramurals and recreational sport clubs will resume with mandatory masking in place. Varsity athletes will not be required to wear masks while training with the team or during competition. 

Western Libraries  

All Western Libraries will operate at full capacity and masks are required at all times in this space. Please note that food is not permitted in the libraries (lidded beverages allowed). For a listing of hours of operation, visit the Western Libraries website. 

Study areas  

Study areas have been set up across campus to support the academic needs of the community. Food and drink are permitted in these areas and masks may be removed only when seated for eating or drinking. Students can access: 

  • Mustang Lounge in UCC (in partnership with the USC), 9:00a.m. to 10:00p.m., Monday to Friday
  • Room 110 and 120 in Natural Sciences (the former Brain & Mind area), 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday to Friday 
  • The Great Hall in Somerville House, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday to Friday 
  • New Student Gathering Space across from Lucy’s in Somerville House, 9:00 a.m.to 5:00 p.m., Monday to Friday 

Meetings and Events 

In-person meetings will be permitted with regular capacity limits and masking in place. Those looking to book events on campus are encouraged to reach out to visitorinfo@uwo.ca to let the university know of your plans. 

Parking   

Western’s campus parking fees will be reinstated effective March 1. For more information on parking, visit Parking and Visitor Services.  

Get Boosted 

If you haven’t yet received your booster shot, we strongly encourage you to do so as soon as you are able. You can book an appointment at the Western Vaccination and Testing Centre online.  

It is important to note that ensuring as safe a campus environment as possible continues to be a priority and a shared responsibility. As always, we will adjust our approach as needed. 

John Doerksen, Acting Provost & Vice-President (Academic)

Lynn Logan, Vice-President (Operations and Finance)

For additional information about the return to campus, please visit the updated FAQs on the Western COVID-19 website. 

Supporting your well-being

For students:  

For employees:  

Additional COVID-19 resources for the campus community can be found on Western’s COVID-19 website and on the Middlesex-London Health Unit’s website.  

AFFILIATED UNIVERSITY COLLEGES  

For information about operations at the affiliated university colleges, please visit their respective websites: Brescia, Huron and King’s .