ISB COVID-19 Guidelines
Introduction
ISB Dublin is delighted to welcome our staff and students for the autumn semester 2021. There is no doubt that this semester will be somewhat different to others due to the Covid-19 pandemic. However, we have put in place a robust set of protocols and protections to ensure the safety and health of both students and staff. It is critical that all members of the ISB community strictly adhere to these guidelines to minimise the risk of infection.
If there is an outbreak of Covid during the semester we will follow the guidance of the Health Service Executive in Ireland as to whether some or all students / staff should self-isolate. This will be decided on a case by case basis. If classes cannot take place in person for a short or long period they will be delivered online to ensure students can continue and complete their studies.
I would strongly suggest to all ISB staff and students to ensure they are fully vaccinated. Entry to indoor restaurants and pubs requires proof of vaccination. Notwithstanding the challenges of Covid-19 I am confident that the autumn semester can take place safely and be an enjoyable and rewarding experience for all at ISB.
Entry to Ireland:
If you have been vaccinated you will not need to quarantine on arrival. If you are not vaccinated you must provide proof of a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours of arrival.
All those entering Ireland must also complete the Locator Form within 72 hours of arrival.
See: https://travel.eplf.gov.ie/en
Accessing ISB’s facilities for in-person learning:
When in the building, a physical distance of 2m should be maintained under all circumstances where possible. There are some situations where tuition might only be realistically delivered with less than 2m between students. In these exceptional circumstances, appropriate precautions (such as masks) should be used to minimise the risk of viral transmission, and specific provision made for vulnerable students.
Both staff and students should take appropriate and responsible mitigation measures such as the following:
· As in all circumstances, good hand hygiene and cough/sneeze etiquette is of paramount importance.
· Masks should normally be worn in teaching situations where distancing is reduced to less than 2m.
· Masks must be worn when entering, leaving and moving about the building.
· Please take your temperature when entering the building.
· Physical contact should be avoided.
· Staff teaching stations should be located at least 2m from students and staff should maintain 2m physical distance insofar as possible.
· The maximum number of people allowed in a class will be in accordance with the prevailing public health guidance on indoor gatherings and it is recognised that this may change in accordance with the evolving COVID-19 situation nationally.
· The lift is limited to two people at a time and should only be used when going up.
· Please use the stairs when possible and pay attention to the floor markings to ensure adequate social distancing.
· Individuals should leave the school promptly if they have any cause to suspect that they are developing symptoms that suggest COVID-19 and if they have been identified as a close contact of someone with COVID-19.
Accommodation:
Efforts should be made to remain in “household pods” for the purpose of using essential shared facilities (e.g. such as cooking facilities).
Students should be vigilant to note signs and symptoms of COVID-19 in peers and be willing to encourage and support other students to self-isolate and seek medical advice if they observe any features that suggest COVID-19.
· Residents in student accommodation should be given clear direction as to who to contact and an immediate pathway of access to an area where they can effectively self-isolate if required.
· Students who share a common food preparation area should be advised to limit time spent with others in the shared space and to wear marks other than when eating.
· Corresponding guidance should be made available to other providers of similar types of student accommodation.
Additional Information:
In addition to the most up to date public health advice, students should:
· Regularly monitor health symptoms throughout the semester.
· Download the HSE Track & Trace app.
· Use the multiple hand sanitizers which are available for frequent use throughout ISB.
· In any situation either at ISB or elsewhere in Ireland feel free to wear your mask if you feel uncomfortable about the number of people in your vicinity or the proximity of others in any context.
· Masks are mandatory in all shops, offices, public transport, restaurants etc.
· Currently public transport is limited to 50% capacity
FAQ:
What are the signs and symptoms of COVID-19?
Most common symptoms:
- Fever (38 C or higher)
- Sudden onset of a dry cough
- Loss of smell and / taste
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- Runny nose, sore throat, headache
- Diarrhoea
What should I do if I develop symptoms of COVID-19?
- Seek immediate medical attention if you have the above symptoms. Always call before visiting your doctor or health facility.
- Book a test online via https://covid19test.healthservice.ie/hse-self-referral/. Covid tests are free.
- People with mild symptoms who are otherwise healthy should manage their symptoms at home.
- On average it takes 5–6 days from when someone is infected with the virus for symptoms to show.
- Self-isolate until you can be tested.
- Inform all close contacts.
- Inform ISB immediately.