Access to the BCC campus is currently restricted.
All visitors must fill out the Campus Access Request Form at least 24 hours prior
to arriving on campus:
Campus Access Request Form
Common Policies
Use the buttons to view up-to-date College policies regarding campus access, mask use, social distancing, cleaning/disinfecting, and more. Click and scroll down to see more.
Masks
To keep in compliance with COVID-19 Order No. 31: Face Coverings are mandatory, except in cases where an individual requests an accommodation.Be advised that no one will be allowed to enter a campus building without a face covering. Individuals are urged to wear their own face covering.
Disposable masks are available at the entrances if necessary. Specific campus or lab experience mask protocols must be adhered to, if applicable. Students attending clinicals or co-ops must also adhere to site specific protocols.
The fit of face coverings should be as follows:
- Fit securely and comfortably against the side of the face;
- Be secured with ties or ear loops;
- Allow for breathing without restriction; and
- Be able to laundered and machine dried without damage or change of shape.
BCC On-Campus Mask Guidelines
BCC's Return to Campus Committee has assembled the following guidelines to answer questions about mask use on campus. (PDF downloads)
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NO - Your chin needs to be covered |
NO - The mask must cover the nose to be effective |
NO - Do not wear the mask on your chin |
YES - The mask is a close fit, covering the nose, mouth and chin. |
Additional information:
Students will be held to the BCC Student Conduct Code procedures for any violations.
Masks will be worn from the time you exit to vehicle to the time you return to your
vehicle.
- Mask must be worn entering and exiting buildings
- Masks must be worn while in a class, lab, or common area
- Masks can be removed if you are in an open space and socially distanced more than 6 feet.
- Mask breaks are encouraged.
- Mask breaks shall be outside in a well-ventilated area.
- You may remove your mask as long as you are AT LEAST 6 feet from others
- Best practice for a mask break is 5 to 10 minutes
- Masks shall be reapplied after break time is finished.
Exceptions for wearing face masks include situations that may inhibit an individual from wearing a face-mask safely. These may include, but are not limited to:
- Those who cannot breathe safely;
- Those who, due to a behavioral health diagnosis, are unable to do so;
- Those communicating with people who rely upon lip-reading;
- Those who require supplemental oxygen to breathe; and
- Those who are exercising outdoors and are able to keep physical distance from others.
Social Distancing
Berkshire Community College Social requires SOCIAL DISTANCING while on campus.Social distancing is recommended to be no less than 6 feet from each other.
This should be maintained in all areas of the campus.
Signs will be provided as reminders and area markings will be used to demonstrate where and what 6 feet distancing looks like.
Berkshire Community College recommends social distancing between people who are not from your family household indoors and outdoors.
Handwashing
Berkshire Community College Policies and Best Practices
HANDWASHING
Berkshire Community College requires handwashing as a safety measure to mitigate the spread of Covid-19.
Berkshire Community College believes proper hygiene protocols like hand washing are a key component to virus spread prevention.
Additional information:
Per CDC website:
Wash your hands often
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds especially after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
- It's especially important to wash:
- Before eating or preparing food
- Before touching your face
- After using the restroom
- After leaving a public place
- After blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing o After handling your cloth face covering
- After changing a diaper
- After caring for someone sick
- After touching animals or pets
- If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Cover all surfaces of your hands and rub them together until they feel dry.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
Campus Access
Access to the BCC campus is currently restricted.
All visitors must fill out the Campus Access Request Form at least 24 hours prior
to arriving on campus:
Campus Access Request Form
CAMPUS ACCESS POLICY
Berkshire Community College Phase 3 plan for access to the campus will designate specific areas students, staff, and the community may visit. Those areas are:
- Clinical labs
- Clinical classrooms for nursing
- The Boland Theatre for classroom use
- The library – for a study space and internet access
Access to Berkshire Community College will be allowed only if you are self-monitoring and assessing your wellness to be on campus.
*If you are not feeling well, PLEASE stay home.
- When you are planning a trip to the college please visit our Covid-19 page for the Campus Use Form, https://www.berkshirecc.edu/about-bcc/covid19resources.php
- The form MUST be filled out prior to your visit to the college.
- The CAMPUS USE FORM allows us to know who is on campus. This is important for contact tracing abilities.
- If a Covid-19 case is reported, our ability to contact trace is highest priority.
- Attendance on campus would be shared with the local health department.
- The local health department and community nurse will notify those who may have been exposed. *
- Once on campus, you will be required to call campus security for access to the buildings.
- Call Campus Security at 413-236-1010
- A prescheduled class will have the doors to the building open.
- While on campus read and follow signs regarding masks, social distancing and hand-washing.
- Please follow traffic flow for each building.
- This helps to limit the passing of individuals.
- Aids in establishing cleaning areas
- Is valuable if contact tracing were to occur
- Once in class or lab please follow safety guidelines posted in each class, hallway, and laboratory.
*Lead health department will be determined by the town the patient
resides.
ACCESS TO CAMPUS – LIBRARY
Revision to STEP 4:
- The LIBRARY will be open from 8am to 4pm. You do not need to contact security for access.
- A CAPACITY of 75 people at any time may be in the library. This includes the lower level.
- Berkshire Community College policies for masks, social distancing, and hand-washing will be in affect at all time.
- Cleaning materials will be available for hard surfaces and common touch points.
- A dedicated maintainer will be cycling through common areas to clean all common touch points.
ACCESS TO CAMPUS – DIGITAL COMMONS
Revision to STEP 4:
- The DIGITAL COMMONS will be open from 8am to 4pm. You do not need to contact security for access.
- A CAPACITY of 15 people at any time may be in the digital commons.
- Please sign in for a work space.
- All spaces will be reserved in two-hour increments.
- Between the reserved times the area will be deep cleaned.
- Berkshire Community College policies for masks, social distancing, and hand-washing will be in affect at all time.
- Cleaning materials will be available for hard surfaces and common touch points.
- A dedicated maintainer will be cycling through common areas to clean all common touch points.
Testing
TESTING PROTOCOLSBerkshire Community College recognizes the need for contact tracing and testing for any individual who may be infected or exposed to an infected COVID-19 person.
- What will happen if a student or staff member is diagnosed positive for COVID-19?
- What will happen if someone is exposed to a positive COVID-19 patient, not identified by contact tracing?
- What to do if you believe you are exposed but have not received a test?
- What is Berkshire Community College notification process?
- What are the Non-Symptomatic testing protocols for Berkshire Community College?
- What is Berkshire Community College Benchmark Testing?
- What happens if a student/staff becomes ill while on campus or suspects COVID-19?
- Where are testing Sites in Western MA?
- General information
Berkshire Community College advocates for handwashing, social distancing, and the use of masks to help prevent the spread of Covid-19. Testing is a key component. There are many resources available to staff and students who would like access to testing.
- If you are feeling sick, you may contact your primary care physician and request a test
- If you have been exposed to someone who is Covid-19 positive, you may contact your primary to request a test.
- If you are contacted by the Community Nurse as part of a contact tracing exercise, you may request a test
- If you have been in a large crowd without a mask or social distancing you may contact your primary and request a test
- The Community Health Nurse can be reached at Kayla Donnelly-Winters, kwinters@cityofpittsfield.org
- If you do not have a primary care doctor to request a test you may call the Berkshire
Medical Center Covid-19 help line. A Covid-19 nurse will help direct your call.
- The number is 855-262-5465
- It is open from 8am to 4:30pm, seven days a week
- The Covid Kiosk at Berkshire Health Systems link is https://www.berkshirehealthsystems.org/coronavirus
- If a student or staff member is diagnosed positive for COVID-19:
- The student or staff member will be assisted by their local health department coordinator
and community health nurse.
- If reporting on the weekend, the State Health Department would be notified, then local health department, then the local community nurse.
- Local entities will coordinate with Pittsfield Health Department and Community Nurse as Berkshire Community College is located in Pittsfield.
- The Health Department and/or the Community Nurse will assist in contact tracing.
- The college security department will be a resource for contact tracing based on but
not limited to:
- What location on campus were visited by the individual being tested,
- Who was in the location at the same time as the person, and after.
- This includes classrooms and common areas.
- Cleaning protocols will be reviewed per these locations and times.
- A log will be reviewed based on what was cleaned and at what time.
- This will help to determine rate and scope of exposure.
- Those exposed and in contact with person will receive testing via the local health
department.
- BERKSHIRE HEALTH SYSTEMS CORONAVIRUS INFORMATION KIOSK CALL 855-BMC-LINK, OR 855-262-5465
- If testing is ordered you may return to work/school if you receive two (2) negative COVID-19 test results within 72 hours; documentation required
- The student or staff member will be assisted by their local health department coordinator
and community health nurse.
- Those who are exposed to a positive COVID-19 patient, not identified by contact tracing
- Will be encouraged to call BERKSHIRE HEALTH SYSTEMS CORONAVIRUS INFORMATION KIOSK
CALL 855-BMC-LINK, OR 855-262-5465.
- The Kiosk will ask about your exposure.
- They can order a test based on your concerns, any comorbidities, and your exposure.
- Or contact your primary physician and request a test.
- If testing is ordered you may return to work/school if you receive two (2) negative COVID-19 test results within 72 hours; documentation required
- Will be encouraged to call BERKSHIRE HEALTH SYSTEMS CORONAVIRUS INFORMATION KIOSK
CALL 855-BMC-LINK, OR 855-262-5465.
- If you believe you are exposed but do not receive a test you must:
- Self-quarantine for 14 days or
- Contact your primary physician for testing
- If testing is ordered you may return to work/school if you receive two (2) negative COVID-19 test results within 72 hours; documentation required
- Notification
- Staff:
- Patients have HIPAA rights regarding their medical information.
- Berkshire Community College encourages employees to contact the Human Resource Department regarding their COVID-19 status.
- The Human Resource Department will notify the appropriate departments with no disclosure of the employee.
- Once the College is notified of a positive case the following protocols will be enacted:
- The area will be locked off for 24 hours.
- A deep clean will occur with non-exposed staff members.
- The area will be deemed sanitized and available for use.
- This process will be recorded in a log to track areas of exposure.
- Students:
-
- Students have HIPAA and FERPA rights regarding their medical information.
- Berkshire Community College encourages Students to contact the Dean of Students or Berkshire Community College Human Resource Department regarding their COVID-19 status.
- The Dean of Students will notify the Human Resource Department who will notify the appropriate departments with no disclosure of the student’s name.
- Once the College is notified of a positive case the following protocols will be enacted:
- The area will be locked off for 24 hours.
- A deep clean will occur with non-exposed staff members.
- The area will be deemed sanitized and available for use.
- This process will be recorded in a log to track areas of exposure.
-
- Demographic information:
- Testing will be in conjunction with local health department.
- Berkshire Community College will provide demographics such as:
- name,
- date of birth,
- full address,
- gender,
- race,
- ethnicity,
- primary language,
- occupation and
- disability status
- Staff:
- NON-SYMPTOMATIC Testing protocols for Berkshire Community College:
- Berkshire Community College will partner with the Local Board of Health and Berkshire
Health Systems to offer testing once every thirty days on campus.
- “The CDC's interim guidance to colleges on testing recommends testing of symptomatic
students and employees and those who have known or suspected contact with an infected
individual. The CDC does not recommend testing upon students' re-entry to campus,
which many universities are doing, saying it is "unknown if entry testing in IHEs
provides any additional reduction in person-to-person transmission of the virus beyond
what would be expected with implementation of other infection preventive measures."
The agency makes no recommendation in regard to broad surveillance testing of asymptomatic students and staff over the course of a term, though it notes institutions may consider this strategy in areas with moderate to substantial community transmission "to identify outbreaks and inform control measures." - Community Number Benchmarks:
- White less than 5 cases for entire community over the past 14 days
- Green less than 4 cases per daily average per 100,000 population
- Yellow between 4-8 cases per daily average per 100,000 population
- Red 8 or more cases per daily average per 100,000 population
- “The CDC's interim guidance to colleges on testing recommends testing of symptomatic
students and employees and those who have known or suspected contact with an infected
individual. The CDC does not recommend testing upon students' re-entry to campus,
which many universities are doing, saying it is "unknown if entry testing in IHEs
provides any additional reduction in person-to-person transmission of the virus beyond
what would be expected with implementation of other infection preventive measures."
- Stages
- Stage 1: On-site testing will not be applicable based on low community numbers, less than 5 cases per community.
- Stage 2: A person on campus is positive for Covid-19. That would trigger a reaction
of tracing, isolation of area, and testing by Health Department. Depending on need
and exposure, guided by Health Department and State, testing on site could/may occur.
- Stage 2A: Community numbers increase to a benchmark that causes a community change color to yellow per DHE map coding or Health Department deemed necessary. Testing could/may be initiated on campus OR campus could revert to Phase II.
- Berkshire Community College will partner with the Local Board of Health and Berkshire
Health Systems to offer testing once every thirty days on campus.
- Benchmark Testing:
- Berkshire Community College will partner with the Local Board of Health and an established
vendor to offer testing once every thirty days on campus.
- The testing day will be determined by the heaviest concentration on campus based on staff and students class schedules.
- That day, for example, is the first Monday of each month. Berkshire Community College
will then test a random sample of 20% of the daily census.
For example:- 100 staff and students are on campus on the first Monday of each month. 15 individuals will be tested.
- The percentage will be determined by the ratio of staff to student.
- Tests will be conducted on a volunteer basis.
- A notice will go out 24 hours before the determined sample day to request volunteers for testing.
- It will be a first come first serve based on receipt of email to testingcv19@berkshirecc.edu.
- Testing will be provided by a service partnership with a local vendor.
- County Ambulance will conduct a baseline testing the second week of the fall semester.
- A nurse or physician will be on sight to administer the testing.
- The cost per test will be absorbed by the College via Cares Act funds.
- Berkshire Community College will partner with the Local Board of Health and an established
vendor to offer testing once every thirty days on campus.
- What happens if a student/staff member becomes ill while on campus and suspects COVID-19?
- If a student or staff member becomes ill while on campus and suspects COVID-19 that
student or staff member will be assisted by the security department. Patient will
be isolated in a separate area.
- The student or staff member will be encouraged to call their primary physician and/or BERKSHIRE HEALTH SYSTEMS CORONAVISUS INFORMATION KIOSK CALL 855-BMC-LINK, OR 855-262-5465.
- The individual will leave the campus immediately.
- If no mode of transportation is available the patient will wait in the isolated area until a ride is available.
- If a ride is not available the college will work to provide a safe way home for the individual.
- If it is determined the patient is COVID-19 positive the steps outlined above will be triggered.
- If a student or staff member becomes ill while on campus and suspects COVID-19 that
student or staff member will be assisted by the security department. Patient will
be isolated in a separate area.
- TESTING SITES IN WESTERN MASSACHUSETTS: (https://www.berkshirehealthsystems.org/coronavirus)
Site Name |
Address |
City |
Phone Number |
Drive Through |
Accepts MassHealth |
Tests Children |
Fairview Hospital |
10 Maple Ave, Gt Barrington, MA 01230 |
Great Barrington |
855-262-5465 |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
MedExpress Urgent Care Hadley |
424 Russell St, Hadley, MA 01035 |
Hadley |
413-253-0483 |
No |
Yes |
Yes |
CVS Holyoke - Minute Clinic |
250 Whiting Farms Rd, Holyoke, MA, 01040 |
Holyoke |
|
Yes |
Yes |
No |
Holyoke Medical Center |
575 Beech St, Holyoke, MA, 01040 |
Holyoke |
413-534-2500 |
No |
Yes |
Yes |
Cooley Dickinson Drive Thru Testing |
30 Locust St, Northampton, MA 01060 |
Northampton |
617-724-7000 |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
CVS Northampton - Minute Clinic |
366 King St, Northampton, MA 01060 |
Northampton |
|
Yes |
Yes |
No |
Berkshire Medical Center |
725 North St, Pittsfield, MA 01201 |
Pittsfield |
413-447-2000 |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
CVS Pittsfield - Minute Clinic |
107 West Street, Pittsfield, MA 01201 |
Pittsfield |
|
Yes |
Yes |
No |
MedExpress Urgent Care Pittsfield |
999 Dalton Ave, Pittsfield, MA 01201 |
Pittsfield |
413-448-6231 |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
CVS Southwick - Minute Clinic |
215 College Highway, Southwick, MA 01077 |
Southwick |
|
Yes |
Yes |
No |
Baystate Brightwood Health Center |
380 Plainfield St, Springfield, MA 01107 |
Springfield |
413-795-8378 |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Baystate Medical Center |
759 Chestnut St, Springfield, MA 01199 |
Springfield |
413-795-8378 |
No |
Yes |
Yes |
Baystate Springfield Carew St. Testing Center |
298 Carew St, Springfield, MA 01104 |
Springfield |
413-795-8378 |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Baystate Springfield High St. Testing Center |
140 High St, Springfield, MA 01105 |
Springfield |
413-795-8378 |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
CVS Springfield - Minute Clinic |
770 Boston Road, Springfield, MA 01119 |
Springfield |
|
Yes |
Yes |
No |
Family Care Medical Center |
1515 Allen St, Springfield, MA 01118 |
Springfield |
413-783-9114 |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
MedExpress Urgent Care Springfield Boston Rd |
1312 Boston Rd, Springfield, MA 01119 |
Springfield |
413-782-0784 |
No |
Yes |
Yes |
MedExpress Urgent Care Springfield Cooley St |
430 Cooley St, Springfield, MA 01128 |
Springfield |
413-782-0320 |
No |
Yes |
Yes |
AFC Urgent Care West Springfield |
18 Union St, West Springfield, MA 01089 |
West Springfield Town |
413-207-9289 |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
CVS West Springfield - Minute Clinic |
928 Riverdale St, West Springfield, MA 01089 |
West Springfield Town |
|
Yes |
Yes |
No |
Baystate Noble Hospital |
115 W Silver St, Westfield, MA 01085 |
Westfield |
413-795-8378 |
No |
Yes |
Yes |
Baystate Union St. Testing Center |
57 Union St, Westfield, MA 01085 |
Westfield |
413-795-8378 |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
MedExpress Urgent Care Westfield |
311 East Main St, Westfield, MA 01085 |
Westfield |
413-562-0482 |
No |
Yes |
Yes |
Berkshire Community College policies and procedures of self-monitoring, wellness check, mask wearing, hand washing, social distancing, disinfecting, duration on campus, and sanitizing are key components in preventing the spread of the virus.
Self-monitoring requires staff and students to check their temperature, assess any symptoms they may have, and cross check those with a great degree of adherence to safety first. If you are unsure of your wellness, stay home.
Wellness check requires staff and students to continually assess how they are feeling throughout the day. If they begin to develop symptoms they need to err on the side of caution and go home. They should leave campus immediately.
Mask wearing helps to prevent the spread of the virus. The campus has a mask wearing policy and procedure. You must wear a mask on campus at all time unless you are able to adequately social distance.
Hand-washing is key to preventing the spread of Covid-19. Soap and water kill the virus. Make sure to use soap and wash your hands at least for 20 seconds.
Social distancing is another key prevention for the spread of the virus. Individuals must be at LEAST six feet apart in each direction from one another.
Disinfecting all hard surfaces, desktops, door knobs, hand rails, hand handles, and all high traffic touch points must be disinfected and wash on a regular basis. ‘Regular’ means after every high use incident, change in occupant, and time in area. Also, a deep clean will occur as needed.
Duration on campus is limited and will be kept to a minimum. We do not anticipate students staying more than four hours at a time in any given day. This limited access of time will help to control any spread or exposure to the virus.
Sanitizing with a solution of 60% alcohol or higher is the accepted practice at Berkshire Community College.
Travel Restriction
COVID-19 Travel Order
Effective August 1, 2020, all visitors and returning residents entering Massachusetts must follow new travel orders. The Commonwealth has made great progress to slow the spread of COVID-19 and gradually re-open the economy, and all visitors have a responsibility to help us keep transmission levels as low as possible.
- Upon re-entering Massachusetts, travelers must fill out a Massachusetts Travel Form.
- Failure to comply and fill out this form may result in a $500 fine
- You must quarantine for 14 days unless you are traveling from a low risk state
- Or, you can produce a negative Covid-19 test performed within 72 hours PRIOR to your arrival in MA.
Low risk states are:
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Maine
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- Maine
- New York
- New Mexico
- Vermont
Individuals traveling to Massachusetts on August 01, 2020 and after must quarantine for 14 days UNLESS they are:
- Traveling from a low risk state
- Within the 72-hour testing rule
- Transitory travel
- Persons commuting to school or work
- Patients seeking or receiving medical treatment
- Military personnel
- Workers providing critical infrastructure services
For more information visit: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/covid-19-travel-order
revised 9/12/2020
Self-monitoring and Wellness
What happens if I am sick?
Stay Home – Stay Safe!
Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)
How to Self-quarantine and Self-isolate
If you are not sick but are:
- a close contact to someone diagnosed with COVID-19, or
- recently returned from any travel outside Massachusetts,
please take these steps to help stop the spread of COVID-19.
Self-quarantine:
Separate yourself from others in case you get sick
- Stay at home and use a separate bedroom and bathroom if possible.
- Do your best to stay at least 6 feet away from other people in the house.
- Do not leave your house to go to school, work or run errands.
- Do not have any visitors to your house during this time.
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
- Do not share eating or drinking utensils with anybody.
- Monitor your health every day.
- If you need to seek routine medical care call ahead to your doctor and tell them you are under COVID-19 quarantine.
- Do not take public transportation, taxis, or ride-shares to get to your appointment.
Monitor your health every day:
Perform health checks every morning and every night, or anytime you feel like you might have a fever
- Take your temperature
- Be alert for any symptoms of COVID-19, including fever, cough or shortness of breath.
If you have a medical emergency, call 911. Tell them your symptoms and that you are being monitored for COVID-19.
How to determine your last day of exposure:
Your last day of exposure is:
- The last time you were within 6 ft of someone confirmed to have COVID-19, or
- The day you arrived home after travel
If you do not show signs of COVID-19 for 14 days after the last time you were exposed, your self-quarantine period is finished.
If you:
- get sick during self-quarantine, or
- are sick and a healthcare provider tests you for COVID-19, or
- are told by a healthcare provider that you have COVID-19,
take these steps to help stop the spread of COVID-19.
Self-isolation:
Separate yourself from others to keep your germs from spreading
- If you get sick with fever, cough, shortness of breath, or other signs of respiratory illness, call your healthcare provider and tell them if you have been exposed to COVID-19.
- If you need see your healthcare provider, do not take public transportation, taxis, or ride-shares to get to your appointment.
- Stay at home and use a separate bedroom and bathroom if possible.
- Stay at least 6 feet away from other people in the house.
- Do not leave your house to go to school, work or run errands.
- Do not have any visitors to your house during this time.
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
- Do not share eating or drinking utensils with anybody.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
- Clean surfaces that you touch every day with a household disinfectant.
- Make a list of everyone you have been close to (within 6 feet of for at least 15 minutes), since you first got sick. Those people have been exposed to COVID-19 and should be asked to self-quarantine.
- gone for three days without a fever (and without taking fever-reducing medications like Tylenol), and
- experienced improvement in your other symptoms (for example, your cough has gotten
much better)
*Section provided by local health department
Cleaning Protocols
ESTABLISHED CLEANING PROTOCOLS:
Berkshire Community College is dedicated to ensure proper cleaning and sanitizing
protocols. BCC will provide regular santization of high touch areas, such as workstations,
equipment, screens, doorknobs, and restrooms throughout the campus.
- Cleaning/sanitizing of electronics and personal space is the responsibility of each employee.
- All food and drinks will be removed at the end of the work day. No food trash will be left in work space.
- Daily routine sanitization schedules are:
- Classrooms/Labs: at least once a day
- Bathrooms: Three times a day
- Common spaces: Twice a day
- High touch point areas and horizontal surfaces: Dedicated maintainer, throughout the day
- Between classes, if faculty deems it necessary, they can call/email facilities and maintenance staff will apply sanitizer spray.
CLEANING AND SANITIZING:
- Cleaning/sanitizing protocols will be place and maintained
- All HVAC equipment will operate under strict 100% outside fresh air intake, 100% exhaust of stale indoor air and exhaust fans will run during operational hours
- Installed MERV 13 filters to provide maximum safety and prevention of airborne pathogens.
- Periodic check of air filters will be performed
- Physical and digital signage reminding people of frequent and effective hand washing
will be commonly visible at specific use areas like bathrooms across campus.
- Sanitizing will be available for classrooms/labs upon request.
- Cleaning/sanitizing supplies will be provided to all employees by submitting a request to their supervisor.
- Sanitizing spray bottles will be located inside each bathroom.
- Hot water and microbial soap will be available in all restrooms.
- Hand sanitizers will be available across campus.
- Small bottles of hand sanitizers will be acquired from the facilities office by submitting a request to their supervisor.
Glossary
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I get free Covid-19 testing?
Stop the Spread is a FREE testing service. The program has been extended to September 12, 2020.
The closest locations to Berkshire County are Agawam and Springfield. ANYONE can
be tested, adult or child. You do not need to live in the community.
Here is the link: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/stop-the-spread
Is Berkshire Community College open?
Yes, BCC is open but it is the NEW NORMAL OPEN. We are open to educate students, but the delivery of education has been adjusted to meet the safety protocols set forth by the MA Department of Labor, CDC, and the Governor’s office.
Will Plexiglass be installed in high traffic areas (library, Digital Commons, Students Engagement, etc.) Yes
How will we manage students that may “hang out” in the SBA Lounge or Connector?
At this time during Phase 3 we are asking that students come to class and leave once finished. If you need to stay for a particular reason, designated areas will be provided and marked. We will require you to wear a mask and socially distance according to our policies and best practices.
Will all doors be unlocked in September?
Yes, we are open to educate our students. There will be some areas unavailable to staff and students to help mitigate flow and the spread of Covid-19.
Will work study resume?
Yes, opportunities to participate in a work study will be available however they will be created to meet the ‘new normal’ policies and procedures at Berkshire Community College.
What evening hours, if any, should the library/digital commons be open, both physically and remotely?
The Library will be open from the hours of 8am to 4pm.
The Digital Commons will be open from 8am to 4pm.
Is there a location for students to wait if deemed sick or not feeling well?
Yes, we have established a policy and best practice for isolating sick students if they must remain on campus for any amount of time. However, if you are not feeling well we request you do not come to campus. Please stay home if you are not feeling well.
What happens if I don’t wear on mask on campus?
- If you do not wear a mask on campus you will be violating the campus policy for mask wearing.
- You will be asked to leave campus and retrieve your mask.
- If you do not have a mask, we will provide you with a mask.
- If you refuse to wear a mask you will be asked to leave campus by campus security or faculty.
What happens if I don’t wear a mask to class?
- If you arrive to class and have forgotten your mask you will be asked to return to your vehicle to retrieve it.
- If you do not have a mask or your mask has become damaged/soiled/unwearable, we will provide you with a mask.
- If you refuse to wear a mask you will be violating the campus policy for mask wearing.
- You will be asked to leave the class.
- You may go to security for an explanation of the policy or reach out to your Dean.
- If you refuse to leave, faculty reserve the right to contact campus security and/or your dean for consult.
Why are bathrooms single use?
Bathrooms are single use to minimize the traffic in a single enclosed area. Please wash your hands EVERY time you use the facilities. Be aware of high touch points like door knobs, door handles, faucet handles, and paper towel holder. We recommend after use of facilities to spray the area with sanitizer provided, wash your hands, leave the area, and then hand sanitizer.
Bathrooms are on a cleaning cycle of three times a day. High use areas may require more attention.
Important Contact Information
IMPORTANT CONTACT INFORMATION:
BERKSHIRE COMMUNITY COLLEGE | 413-499-4660 |
BERKSHIRE COMMUNITY COLLEGE SECURITY | 413-236-1010 |
PITTSFIELD HEALTH DEPARTMENT | 413-499-9411 |
BERKSHIRE MEDICAL CENTER | 413-447-2000 |
COMMUNITY HEALTH NURSE | 855-BMC-LINK (855-262-5465) |
United States Centers for Disease Control (CDC) | |
MA COVID RESOURCE PAGE |
Vaccine Information
Vaccination Locations
Click on the blue button to find a clinic.
Vaccine Information
The staff of the Jonathan Edwards Library have created a one-page Lib Guide with facts and information about the Covid-19 vaccine.
Other Campus Policies
Expand each section below to explore BCC's Covid-19 policies.
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Phase 3 Control Plan
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Phased Return to Campus Policies
Use the buttons to view Phase-specific campus policies regarding campus access, mask use, social distancing, cleaning/disinfecting, and personal protective equipment.
TOPIC STAFF STUDENTS COMMUNITY PUBLISHED? OUTCOMES Campus Access
Essential Staff only
- Security
- Maintainers
- Office Staff – only if work cannot be done remotely
Online Only
Moved classes to onlineEssential Staff only – no community access • Website
• Staff email
• Student email
• Robo calls
• Newspaper
• Social MediaSafety from Virus for all staff and students while providing educational opportunities Masks - Masks must be worn at all times on campus
- Signage for Mask use
- Not applicable – all classes moved to remote learning
- Not applicable – no community access to buildings
• Website
• Staff email
• Student email
• Robo calls
• Newspaper
• Social MediaTo ensure safety of all those on campus. Social Distancing - Essential employees should maintain 6ft distance from any person
- Signage for Social Distancing
- Not applicable – all classes moved to remote learning
- Not applicable – no community access to buildings
• Website
• Staff email
• Student email
• Robo calls
• Newspaper
• Social MediaTo ensure safety of all those on campus. Cleaning / Disinfecting - Clean all hard surfaces
- PPE
- Disinfected wipes
- Hand sanitizer
- Bleach
- Gloves
- Fogger/Mister
- Not applicable – all classes moved to remote learning
- Not applicable – no community access to buildings
• Website
• Staff email
• Student email
• Robo calls
• Newspaper
• Social MediaTo ensure all surfaces and areas are deep cleaned and disinfected Personal Protective Equipment - Mask
- Gloves
- Aprons/Suits
- Not applicable - all classes moved to remote learning
- Not applicable – no community access to buildings
• Website
• Staff email
• Student email
• Robo calls
• Newspaper
• Social MediaTo ensure all on campus have the correct equipment needed for protection of virus TOPIC STAFF STUDENTS COMMUNITY PUBLISHED? OUTCOMES Campus Access
Essential Staff Only
- Security
- Maintainers
- Office Staff - 25% of staff can return in a staggered schedule approved by a supervisor
Online Only
Moved classes to onlineEssential Staff only - no community access - Website
- Staff Email
- Student Email
- Robo calls
- Newspaper
- Social Media
Safety from virus for all staff and student while providing educational opportunities Masks - Masks must be worn on campus at all times
- Signage for mask use
N/A - all classes moved to remote learning N/A - no community access to buildings - Website
- Staff Email
- Student Email
- Robo calls
- Newspaper
- Social Media
To ensure safety of all those on campus Social Distancing - Eseential employees should maintain 6-foot distance from any person
- Signage for social distancing
N/A - all classes moved to remote learning N/A - no community access to buildings - Website
- Staff Email
- Student Email
- Robo calls
- Newspaper
- Social Media
To ensure safety of all those on campus Cleaning / Disinfecting - Clean all hard surfaces
- PPE
- Disinfected wipes
- Hand sanitizer
- Bleach
- Gloves
- Fogger / Mister
N/A - all classes moved to remote learning N/A - no community access to buildings - Website
- Staff Email
- Student Email
- Robo calls
- Newspaper
- Social Media
To ensure safety of all those on campus Personal Protective Equipment - Mask
- Gloves
- Aprons / Suits
N/A - all classes moved to remote learning N/A - no community access to buildings - Website
- Staff Email
- Student Email
- Robo calls
- Newspaper
- Social Media
To ensure safety of all those on campus TOPIC STAFF STUDENTS COMMUNITY PUBLISHED? OUTCOMES Campus Access
- Security
- Maintainers
- Office Staff - 50% of staff can return in a staggered schedule approved by supervisor
- Educators - classes that cannot be online
- Labs
- Nursing components
- Library (limited capacity)
- Staff must follow Covid-19 procedures while on campus
- Mostly online classes
- Classes not able to be online will allow for student attendance
- Students must follow Covid-19 policies while on campus
- Limited community use and based on small groups and need
- Library open to community based on limited capacity
- Bookstore open with limited capacity
- Website
- Staff Email
- Student Email
- Robo calls
- Newspaper
- Social Media
- Signage for which areas or rooms are open and available
Safety from virus for all staff, students and community while providing educational opportunities Masks - Masks must be worn at all times on campus
- Signage for mask use
- Masks must be worn at all times on campus
- Signage for mask use
- Masks must be worn at all times on campus
- Signage for mask use
- Website
- Staff Email
- Student Email
- Robo calls
- Newspaper
- Social Media
To ensure safety of all those on campus Social Distancing - Staff shall maintain 6-foot social distance from any person
- Signage for social distancing
- Students shall maintain 6-foot social distance from any person
- Signage for social distancing
- Community members shall maintain 6-foot social distance from any person
- Signage for social distancing
- Website
- Staff Email
- Student Email
- Robo calls
- Newspaper
- Social Media
To ensure safety of all those on campus Cleaning / Disinfecting - Clean all hard surfaces
- PPE
- Disinfectant wipes
- Hand sanitizer
- Bleach
- Gloves
- Fogger / Mister
- Clean all hard surfaces
- PPE
- Disinfectant wipes
- Hand sanitizer
- Bleach
- Gloves
- Fogger / Mister
- Clean all hard surfaces
- PPE
- Disinfectant wipes
- Hand sanitizer
- Bleach
- Gloves
- Fogger / Mister
- Website
- Staff Email
- Student Email
- Robo calls
- Newspaper
- Social Media
To ensure all surfaces and areas are deep cleaned and disinfected. Personal Protective Equipment - Mask
- Gloves
- Aprons / Suits
- Mask
- Gloves
- Aprons / Suits
- Mask
- Gloves
- Aprons / Suits
- Website
- Staff Email
- Student Email
- Robo calls
- Newspaper
- Social Media
To ensure all on campus have the correct equipment needed for protection from virus -
Student Pledge
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Committee Rosters
In mid-March, staff and faculty members from all across BCC rapidly adjusted their own schedules and formed the Continuation of Operations Committee and the Academic Student Affairs Committee to expertly re-imagine how we all teach, learn and work together. Building on their efforts, our Return to Campus Committee has come together to safely and effectively coordinate ongoing work across the campus, and far beyond.
Berkshire Community College is profoundly grateful for all of the staff and faculty on the committees that have guided and informed our decision-making. Their selfless efforts have been a welcome source of knowledge, clarity and purpose for us all.
BCC COOP-ASA Committee
The Continuation of Operations Committee and the Academic Student Affairs Committee have lead the College's efforts regarding class schedules, course formats, remote learning, faculty professional development, and the myriad other crucial aspects of delivering a high quality education to our students.
BCC gratefully recognizes,
- Adam Klepetar
- Andrea Robare
- Celia Norcross
- Ellen Shanahan
- Frank Schikor
- Gina Foley
- Jonah Sykes
- Laura Saldarini
- Lauren Goodman
- Laurie Gordy
- Lori Moon
- Richard Felver
BCC Return to Campus Committee
The Return to Campus Committee has taken the lead on practical concerns around returning to campus, determining needs and policies for campus access, mask use, cleaning and sanitizing, and many more often overlooked aspects of our shared lives.
BCC gratefully recognizes,
- Adam Emerson
- Jeff Dupuis
- Kim Brookman
- Laura Saldarini
- Frank Schickor
- Chiristina Wynn
- Arlen Rauschkolb
- Melissa Loiodice
- Ellis Richardson
- Cara Borelli
- Joshua Costa
- Mitchell Saviski
- Shami Qazi
- Andrea Wadsworth
- Alicia Ginsberg