COVID-19 - Latest Directorate / Safety Updates | TRIUMF : Canada's particle accelerator centre

Latest Directorate updates

Site-wide email update, October 1 2022: Update on TRIUMF COVID measures

Dear Colleagues,

I am reaching out today to share an update on TRIUMF’s COVID response measures.

As you may be aware, TRIUMF has experienced a reduced rate of COVID infection over the past five weeks. In light of this downward trend, and the recent lifting of the ArriveCAN requirements for visitors to Canada by the Federal Government, it is time to re-evaluate our COVID measures.

To support this re-evaluation and inform our next steps, I have undertaken consultations with the liaison committees, the TRIUMF COVID-19 Task Force, and the Leadership Team. Consideration has also been given to the desire from across the lab to maintain a safe work environment, especially while working with people we see daily, and also to ensure consistency with the changes to Federal guidance.

Effective October 1, 2022, the following COVID measures will be in place at TRIUMF:

Appointees continue to require vaccination proof through THRIVE
Visitors do not require vaccination proof
Contractors do not require vaccination proof
Tour, conference, and event participants do not require vaccination proof
Masks remain a personal choice, and I continue to encourage everyone to be sympathetic to the wishes of those around you
Mask usage is encouraged for large meetings, over 20 participants
COVID-positive reporting to HR and covid-19-ehs@triumf.ca and the 5-day isolation period following positive test confirmation remains in place, in accordance with BCCDC guidelines

TRIUMF will continue to monitor the COVID situation and Provincial and Federal guidance and adjust our COVID safety measures as required.

If you have any questions, please reach out via the COVID Task Force inbox at covid19taskforce@triumf.ca

Best Regards,

Nigel Smith

Dear Colleagues,

Since August 8, 2022, six members of the TRIUMF community, who have recently been on-site, tested positive for COVID-19. Human Resources and Occupational Health & Safety have been informed and TRIUMF has connected with and provided guidance to those who may have been in recent contact with the individuals. The affected areas where the individuals were working have been reviewed and authorised for re-use by the Chief Safety Officer.

TRIUMF staff and visitors can monitor the COVID-19 On-site Incident Tracker for future updates. Any questions or concerns should be addressed to covid19taskforce@triumf.ca

If you test positive for COVID, please follow the instructions posted on our TRIUMF COVID-19 Resources Page.

Please continue to monitor your health and stay home if you are symptomatic or go home if you start to feel sick while at work.

Masks are now recommended for everyone in all shared/common indoor areas.

Rapid tests kits are now available in most local pharmacies (https://www.bcpharmacy.ca/rapid-tests/list) to those age 18 and above. A limited number of test kits are also available on site, please contact Rock Neveau or Terry Sanghera to arrange pickup. We encourage everyone to obtain the test kits and to use them if you are symptomatic or have been in close contact with a COVID positive individual.

Finally, I would like to provide a reminder that the Vaccination Verification Policy remains in place at TRIUMF. Please help notify your visitors and contactors, before their visit, that vaccination proof and ID will continue to be required to enter TRIUMF. Note also that public and friends and family tours of the TRIUMF site are not allowed at this time.

Sincerely,

Adrian Lee Director, Facilities and Chair, COVID-19 Task Force

Site-wide email update, August 5, 2022: COVID Cases at TRIUMF

Dear Colleagues,

Since July 30, 2022, five members of the TRIUMF community, who have recently been on-site, tested positive for COVID-19. Human Resources and Occupational Health & Safety have been informed and TRIUMF has connected with and provided guidance to those who may have been in recent contact with the individuals. The affected areas where the individuals were working have been reviewed and authorised for re-use by the Chief Safety Officer.

TRIUMF staff and visitors can monitor the COVID-19 On-site Incident Tracker for future updates. Any questions or concerns should be addressed to covid19taskforce@triumf.ca

If you test positive for COVID, please follow the instructions posted on our TRIUMF COVID-19 Resources Page.

Please continue to monitor your health and stay home if you are symptomatic or go home if you start to feel sick while at work.

Masks are now recommended for everyone in all shared/common indoor areas.

Sincerely,

Adrian Lee Director, Facilities and Chair, COVID-19 Task Force

Site-wide email update, July 29, 2022: COVID Cases at TRIUMF

Dear Colleagues,

Since July 25, 2022, three members of the TRIUMF community, who have recently been on-site, tested positive for COVID-19. Human Resources and Occupational Health & Safety have been informed and TRIUMF has connected with and provided guidance to those who may have been in recent contact with the individuals. The affected areas where the individuals were working have been reviewed and authorised for re-use by the Chief Safety Officer.

TRIUMF staff and visitors can monitor the COVID-19 On-site Incident Tracker for future updates. Any questions or concerns should be addressed to covid19taskforce@triumf.ca

If you test positive for COVID, please follow the instructions posted on our TRIUMF COVID-19 Resources Page.

Please continue to monitor your health and stay home if you are symptomatic or go home if you start to feel sick while at work.

Masks are now recommended for everyone in all shared/common indoor areas.

Sincerely,

Adrian Lee
Director, Facilities and Chair, COVID-19 Task Force

Site-wide email update, July 22, 2022: COVID Cases at TRIUMF

Dear Colleagues,

Since July 18, 2022, three members of the TRIUMF community, who have recently been on-site, tested positive for COVID-19. Human Resources and Occupational Health & Safety have been informed and TRIUMF has connected with and provided guidance to those who may have been in recent contact with the individuals. The affected areas where the individuals were working have been reviewed and authorised for re-use by the Chief Safety Officer.

An additional four members of the TRIUMF community who have not been recently on-site have also tested positive during this time.

TRIUMF staff and visitors can monitor the COVID-19 On-site Incident Tracker for future updates. Any questions or concerns should be addressed to covid19taskforce@triumf.ca

If you test positive for COVID, please follow the instructions posted on our TRIUMF COVID-19 Resources Page.

Unfortunately, COVID case rates remain high at TRIUMF, so please continue to monitor your health and stay home if you are symptomatic or go home if you start to feel sick while at work.

Masks are now recommended for everyone in all shared/common indoor areas.

Sincerely,

Adrian Lee
Director, Facilities and Chair, COVID-19 Task Force

Site-wide email update, July 18, 2022: COVID Cases at TRIUMF

Dear Colleagues,

Since July 11, 2022, four members of the TRIUMF community, who have recently been on-site, tested positive for COVID-19. Human Resources and Occupational Health & Safety have been informed and TRIUMF has connected with and provided guidance to those who may have been in recent contact with the individual. The affected areas where the individuals were working have been reviewed and authorised for re-use by the Chief Safety Officer.

An additional two members of the TRIUMF community who have not been recently on-site have also tested positive during this time.

TRIUMF staff and visitors can monitor the COVID-19 On-site Incident Tracker for future updates. Any questions or concerns should be addressed to covid19taskforce@triumf.ca

If you test positive for COVID, please follow the instructions posted on our TRIUMF COVID-19 Resources Page

COVID continues to circulate in our community so please continue to monitor your health and stay home if you are symptomatic or go home if you start to feel sick while at work.

Finally, I would like to provide a reminder that the Vaccination Verification Policy remains in place at TRIUMF. Please help notify your visitors and contactors, before their visit, that vaccination proof and ID will continue to be required to enter TRIUMF. Note also that public and friends and family tours of the TRIUMF site are not allowed at this time.

Sincerely,

Adrian Lee Director, Facilities and Chair, COVID-19 Task Force

Site-wide email update, July 11, 2022 COVID Cases at TRIUMF

Dear Colleagues,

Since July 4, 2022, seven members of the TRIUMF community, who have recently been on-site, tested positive for COVID-19. Human Resources and Occupational Health & Safety have been informed and TRIUMF has connected with and provided guidance to those who may have been in recent contact with the individual. The affected areas where the individuals were working have been reviewed and authorised for re-use by the Chief Safety Officer.

An additional two members of the TRIUMF community who have not been recently on-site have also tested positive during this time.

TRIUMF staff and visitors can monitor the COVID-19 On-site Incident Tracker for future updates. Any questions or concerns should be addressed to covid19taskforce@triumf.ca

If you test positive for COVID, please follow the instructions posted on our TRIUMF COVID-19 Resources Page

COVID continues to circulate in our community so please continue to monitor your health and stay home if you are symptomatic or go home if you start to feel sick while at work.

Finally, I would like to provide a reminder that the Vaccination Verification Policy remains in place at TRIUMF. Please help notify your visitors and contactors, before their visit, that vaccination proof and ID will continue to be required to enter TRIUMF. Note also that public and friends and family tours of the TRIUMF site are not allowed at this time.

Sincerely,

Adrian Lee Director, Facilities and Chair, COVID-19 Task Force

Site-wide email update, June 30, 2022 COVID Cases at TRIUMF

Dear Colleagues,

Since June 27, 2022, four members of the TRIUMF community, who have recently been on-site, tested positive for COVID-19. Human Resources and Occupational Health & Safety have been informed and TRIUMF has connected with and provided guidance to those who may have been in recent contact with the individual. The affected areas where the individuals were working have been reviewed and authorised for re-use by the Chief Safety Officer.

An additional two members of the TRIUMF community who have not been recently on-site have also tested positive during this time.

TRIUMF staff and visitors can monitor the COVID-19 On-site Incident Tracker for future updates. Any questions or concerns should be addressed to covid19taskforce@triumf.ca

If you test positive for COVID, please follow the instructions posted on our TRIUMF COVID-19 Resources Page

COVID continues to circulate in our community so please continue to monitor your health and stay home if you are symptomatic or go home if you start to feel sick while at work.

Finally, I would like to provide a reminder that the Vaccination Verification Policy remains in place at TRIUMF. Please help notify your visitors and contactors, before their visit, that vaccination proof and ID will continue to be required to enter TRIUMF. Note also that public and friends and family tours of the TRIUMF site are not allowed at this time.

Sincerely,

Adrian Lee Director, Facilities and Chair, COVID-19 Task Force

Site-wide email update, June 17, 2022 COVID Cases at TRIUMF

Dear Colleagues,

Since June 13, 2022, three members of the TRIUMF community, who have recently been on-site, tested positive for COVID-19. Human Resources and Occupational Health & Safety have been informed and TRIUMF has connected with and provided guidance to those who may have been in recent contact with the individual. The affected areas where the individuals were working have been reviewed and authorised for re-use by the Chief Safety Officer.

An additional two members of the TRIUMF community who have not been recently on-site have also tested positive during this time.

TRIUMF staff and visitors can monitor the COVID-19 On-site Incident Tracker for future updates. Any questions or concerns should be addressed to covid19taskforce@triumf.ca

If you test positive for COVID, please follow the instructions posted on our TRIUMF COVID-19 Resources Page

COVID continues to circulate in our community so please continue to monitor your health and stay home if you are symptomatic or go home if you start to feel sick while at work.

Sincerely,

Adrian Lee Director, Facilities and Chair, COVID-19 Task Force

Site-wide email update, June 10, 2022 COVID Cases at TRIUMF

Dear Colleagues,

Since June 6, 2022, one member of the TRIUMF community, who has recently been on-site, tested positive for COVID-19. Human Resources and Occupational Health & Safety have been informed and TRIUMF has connected with and provided guidance to those who may have been in recent contact with the individual. The affected area where the individual was working have been reviewed and authorised for re-use by the Chief Safety Officer.

An additional member of the TRIUMF community who has not been recently on-site has also tested positive during this time.

TRIUMF staff and visitors can monitor the COVID-19 On-site Incident Tracker for future updates. Any questions or concerns should be addressed to covid19taskforce@triumf.ca

If you test positive for COVID, please follow the instructions posted on our TRIUMF COVID-19 Resources Page.

COVID continues to circulate in our community so please continue to monitor your health and stay home if you are symptomatic or go home if you start to feel sick while at work.

Sincerely,

Adrian Lee Director, Facilities and Chair, COVID-19 Task Force

Site-wide email update, June 6, 2022 COVID Cases at TRIUMF

Dear Colleagues,

Since May 30, 2022, one member of the TRIUMF community, who has recently been on-site, tested positive for COVID-19. Human Resources and Occupational Health & Safety have been informed and TRIUMF has connected with and provided guidance to those who may have been in recent contact with the individual. The affected area where the individual was working have been reviewed and authorised for re-use by the Chief Safety Officer.

An additional two members of the TRIUMF community who have not been recently on-site have also tested positive during this time.

TRIUMF staff and visitors can monitor the COVID-19 On-site Incident Tracker for future updates. Any questions or concerns should be addressed to covid19taskforce@triumf.ca

If you test positive for COVID, please follow the instructions posted on our TRIUMF COVID-19 Resources Page.

COVID continues to circulate in our community so please continue to monitor your health and stay home if you are symptomatic or go home if you start to feel sick while at work.

Sincerely,

Adrian Lee Director, Facilities and Chair, COVID-19 Task Force

Site-wide email update, May 30, 2022 COVID Cases at TRIUMF

Dear Colleagues,

Since May 23, 2022, three members of the TRIUMF community, who have recently been on-site, tested positive for COVID-19. Human Resources and Occupational Health & Safety have been informed and TRIUMF has connected with and provided guidance to those who may have been in recent contact with the individuals. The affected areas where the individuals were working have been reviewed and authorised for re-use by the Chief Safety Officer.

An additional three members of the TRIUMF community who have not been recently on-site have also tested positive during this time.

TRIUMF staff and visitors can monitor the COVID-19 On-site Incident Tracker for future updates. Any questions or concerns should be addressed to covid19taskforce@triumf.ca

If you test positive for COVID, please follow the instructions posted on our TRIUMF COVID-19 Resources Page.

COVID continues to circulate in our community so please continue to monitor your health and stay home if you are symptomatic or go home if you start to feel sick while at work.

Rapid tests kits are now available in many local pharmacies (https://www.bcpharmacy.ca/rapid-tests/list) to those age 18 and above. A limited number of test kits are also available on site, please contact Rock Neveau or Terry Sanghera to arrange pickup. We encourage everyone to obtain the test kits and to use them if you are symptomatic or have been in close contact with a COVID positive individual.

Sincerely,

Adrian Lee Director, Facilities and Chair, COVID-19 Task Force

Site-wide email update, May 16, 2022 COVID Cases at TRIUMF

Dear Colleagues,

Since May 12, 2022, five members of the TRIUMF community, who have recently been on-site, tested positive for COVID-19. Human Resources and Occupational Health & Safety have been informed and TRIUMF has connected with and provided guidance to those who may have been in recent contact with the individuals. The affected areas where the individuals were working have been reviewed and authorised for re-use by the Chief Safety Officer.

The relevant health authority has been notified and TRIUMF will follow further guidance and issue additional communications as required. TRIUMF staff and visitors can also monitor the COVID-19 On-site Incident Tracker for future updates. Any questions or concerns should be addressed to covid19taskforce@triumf.ca

If you test positive for COVID, please follow the instructions posted on our TRIUMF COVID-19 Resources Page.

There has been a recent rise in cases on site, so please continue to monitor your health and stay home if you are symptomatic or go home if you start to feel sick while at work.

Sincerely,

Adrian Lee Director, Facilities and Chair, COVID-19 Task Force

Site-wide email update, May 6, 2022 COVID Case at TRIUMF

Dear Colleagues,

Since April 29, 2022, three members of the TRIUMF community, who had recently been on-site, tested positive for COVID-19. Human Resources and Occupational Health & Safety have been informed and TRIUMF has connected with and provided guidance to those who may have been in recent contact with the individuals. The affected areas where the individuals were working have been reviewed and authorised for re-use by the Chief Safety Officer.

An additional member of TRIUMF community, who has been working off-site, has also tested positive for COVID-19.

If you test positive for COVID, please follow the instructions posted on our TRIUMF COVID-19 Resources Page.

There has been a recent rise in cases on site, so please continue to monitor your health and stay home if you are symptomatic or go home if you start to feel sick while at work.

Sincerely,

Adrian Lee Director, Facilities and Chair, COVID-19 Task Force

Dear Colleagues,

On April 25, 2022, a member of the TRIUMF community, who had recently been on-site, tested positive for COVID-19. Human Resources and Occupational Health & Safety have been informed and TRIUMF has connected with and provided guidance to those who may have been in recent contact with the individual. The affected areas where the individual was working have been reviewed and authorised for re-use by the Chief Safety Officer.

An additional member of TRIUMF community, who has been working off-site, has also tested positive for COVID-19.

There has been a recent rise in cases on site, so please continue to monitor your health and stay home if you are symptomatic or go home if you start to feel sick while at work.

Finally, I would like to provide a reminder that the Vaccination Verification Policy remains in place at TRIUMF after April 8, 2022. Please help notify your visitors and contactors, before their visit, that vaccination proof and ID will continue to be required to enter TRIUMF.

Sincerely,

Adrian Lee Director, Facilities and Vice Chair, COVID-19 Task Force

Site-wide email update, April 22, 2022 - Virtual Town Hall Meeting Postponed

Dear colleagues,

Due to ACOT and other conflicts, next week’s virtual Town Hall meeting will be postponed one week to Wednesday, May 4 from 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM.

A meeting reminder will be sent next week.

Sincerely,

Nigel Smith
Executive Director & CEO

Site-wide email update, April 20, 2022 COVID Cases at TRIUMF

Dear Colleagues,

On April 20, 2022, a member of the TRIUMF community, who had recently been on-site, tested positive for COVID-19. Human Resources and Occupational Health & Safety have been informed and TRIUMF has connected with and provided guidance to those who may have been in recent contact with the individuals. The affected areas where the individual was working have been reviewed and authorised for re-use by the Chief Safety Officer.

An additional two members of TRIUMF community, who have been working off-site, have also tested positive for COVID-19.

There has been a recent rise in cases on site, so please continue to monitor your health and stay home if you are symptomatic or go home if you start to feel sick while at work.

Sincerely,

Adrian Lee Director, Facilities and Vice Chair, COVID-19 Task Force

Site-wide email update, April 20, 2022 COVID Case at TRIUMF

Dear Colleagues,

Between April 12-14, 2022, two members of the TRIUMF community, who had recently been on-site, tested positive for COVID-19. Human Resources and Occupational Health & Safety have been informed and TRIUMF has connected with and provided guidance to those who may have been in recent contact with the individuals. The affected areas where the individual was working have been reviewed and authorised for re-use by the Chief Safety Officer.

There has been a recent rise in cases on site, so please continue to monitor your health and stay home if you are symptomatic or go home if you start to feel sick while at work.

Sincerely,

Adrian Lee Director, Facilities and Vice Chair, COVID-19 Task Force

Site-wide email update, April 8, 2022 COVID Case at TRIUMF

Dear Colleagues,

On April 8, 2022, two additional members of the TRIUMF community, who had recently been on-site, tested positive for COVID-19. Human Resources and Occupational Health & Safety have been informed and TRIUMF has connected with and provided guidance to those who may have been in recent contact with the individuals. The affected areas where the individual was working have been reviewed and authorised for re-use by the Chief Safety Officer.

There has been a recent rise in cases on site, so please continue to monitor your health and stay home if you are symptomatic or go home if you start to feel sick while at work.

Sincerely,

Adrian Lee Director, Facilities and Vice Chair, COVID-19 Task Force

Site-wide email update, April 7, 2022 COVID cases at TRIUMF

Colleagues,

On April 6, 2022, two members of the TRIUMF community, who had recently been on-site, tested positive for COVID-19. Human Resources and Occupational Health & Safety have been informed and TRIUMF has connected with and provided guidance to those who may have been in recent contact with the individuals. The affected areas where the individual was working have been reviewed and authorised for re-use by the Chief Safety Officer.

There has been a recent rise in cases on site, so please continue to monitor your health and stay home if you are symptomatic or go home if you start to feel sick while at work.

Sincerely,

Adrian Lee Director, Facilities and Vice Chair, COVID-19 Task Force

Site-wide email update, March 24, 2022 COVID Case at TRIUMF (March 24)

Dear Colleagues,

On March 24^th, 2022, an additional member of the TRIUMF community, who has been on-site, tested positive for COVID-19. Human Resources and Occupational Health & Safety have been informed and TRIUMF has connected with and provided guidance to those who may have been in recent contact with the individual. The affected areas where the individual was working have been reviewed and authorised for re-use by the Chief Safety Officer.

The UK is presently experiencing a new wave of COVID cases (from the BA-2 variant) equal to the Omicron wave and, given previous history, we may see a corresponding rise in cases in Canada in the coming weeks. BC cases currently remain low and the TRIUMF mask mandate has been lifted, but mask usage may be reintroduced if provincial guidance changes or the COVID situation at TRIUMF warrants.

Rapid tests kits are now available in many local pharmacies (https://www.bcpharmacy.ca/rapid-tests/list) to those age 18 and above. A set of 5 tests can be obtained free of charge every 28 days by providing your BC Care Card number. A limited number of test kits are also available on site, please contact Rock Neveau or Terry Sanghera to arrange pickup. We encourage everyone to obtain the test kits and to use them if you are symptomatic or have been in close contact with a COVID positive individual. Please continue to monitor your health and stay home if you are symptomatic or go home if you start to feel sick while at work.

TRIUMF will continue to monitor provincial health orders and advice.

Sincerely,

Adrian Lee
Director, Facilities and Vice Chair, COVID-19 Task Force

Site-wide email update, March 24, 2022 COVID Case at TRIUMF (March 23)

Dear Colleagues,

On March 23^rd, 2022, a member of the TRIUMF community, who has been on-site, tested positive for COVID-19. Human Resources and Occupational Health & Safety have been informed and TRIUMF has connected with and provided guidance to those who may have been in recent contact with the individual. The affected areas where the individual were working have been reviewed and authorised for re-use by the Chief Safety Officer.

Since our last on-site case on February 16^th, 2022, an additional 3 members of the TRIUMF community, who have been off-site, have tested positive for COVID-19.

We ask everyone to continue following TRIUMF’s COVID-19 Health and Safety Protocols, which include staying home if you are symptomatic and washing your hands regularly.

Please continue to exercise caution in your local communities and stay informed and adhere to provincial health orders and advice. This is an important reminder of the continued need for vaccination and boosters when they become available to you.

Sincerely,

Adrian Lee
Director, Facilities and Vice Chair, COVID-19 Task Force

Site-wide email update, March 23, 2022 - Removal of Face Covering Requirements at TRIUMF

This message provides the TRIUMF community with a formal announcement regarding a change in the requirements for wearing face coverings at TRIUMF.

Face coverings will no longer be required in previously mandated indoor environments, such as lobbies & hallways, cubicle clusters, break areas, offices, and meeting rooms. This also includes work areas, labs, accelerator control rooms, etc.

However, TRIUMF will continue controlling access to the hallway outside the Driver Control room (as previously posted), and facial coverings are still required when entering that area.

Access to the hallway area outside of the Driver Control Room will continue to be posted and controlled. As before, the phone set up by the “STOP” sign posting (by the DRD computer sign-out desk) must still be used to notify a Control Room Operator of your need to access the area.

NOTE: People may continue to wear face coverings as a personal choice.

Messaging will also emphasize the need to be respectful to others as we work through this milestone of transition in TRIUMF’s COVID-related policies.

Daily health checks continue – do not come to work if symptomatic.
People should respect requests by others to wear masks whenever possible.
Individuals with specific health concerns should initially work directly with their Supervisors and respective groups. If necessary, issues & concerns cannot be effectively resolved, then contact OH&S or EHS (as we do with similar safety-related topics).

Our transition has been a risk-based decision that will inevitably require addressing individual or group issues as we all move forward into this new phase of the Policy.

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me directly at rneveau@triumf.ca or Terry Sanghera tsanghra@triumf.ca

Rock Neveau
Chief Safety Officer
TRIUMF
x 7370

Site-wide email update, March 10, 2022 - COVID Mask Update

Today, the province of BC announced they are lifting the mask mandate in public spaces effective March 11, 2022. We are evaluating how this change will be incorporated into TRIUMF’s operations and will report back when a decision is made.

Adrian Lee

Director, Facilities and Vice-Chair, COVID-19 Task Force

Site-wide email update, March 1, 2022 - Important Virtual Town Hall Meeting Tomorrow (2:30-3:30 PM)

Dear colleagues,

The next virtual Town Hall meeting will take place tomorrow afternoon from 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM.

This meeting will be focused on discussing work for the ongoing CNSC licensing process, as well as significant changes that have been implemented to TRIUMF’s organizational structure. This will be an important meeting I recommend everyone attend.

The meeting can be accessed using the standard web credentials (https://ubc.zoom.us/j/64964121809?pwd=NGRtRjNubmpSZHI0bGlEemMzYkdPZz09; Meeting ID: 649 6412 1809) or via telephone (778-907-2071; enter 649 6412 1809, press # twice, and if prompted for a passcode enter 538845).

I look forward to seeing everyone soon.

Sincerely,

Nigel Smith
Director & CEO

Site-wide email update, February 24, 2022 - COVID Safety Measures Update

Dear Colleagues,

Over the past few weeks we’ve seen a gradual reduction in the rate of COVID cases among TRIUMF staff and the Province of BC has started easing restrictions. In consultation with the COVID-19 Task Force and the Leadership Team, COVID related restrictions will also be easing at TRIUMF.

Effective February 25, 2022 the following changes will be in effect:

People are welcome to return to the TRIUMF Site

Those wishing to continue to work from home are free to do so, please consult with your supervisor.

Masks remain required in all shared indoor spaces
Individuals may remove masks while at your own workspace (e.g. Desk/cubicle)

If you leave your workspace, please wear a mask
If you are visiting someone in their workspace, both people need to wear masks

No occupancy restrictions on lunch and break rooms

People may sit and eat together – please wear your mask when you are finished eating

No occupancy restrictions on operator control rooms

Masks are required for visitors entering the operator control rooms

Resume in person meetings including use of the auditorium

Masks are required for all in person meetings

While restrictions are easing, COVID remains prevalent in our communities and is still a risk at the work place. We ask that everyone continue to monitor their own health and stay home if you are sick or symptomatic.

If there are any questions or concerns relating to COVID-19 or these changes, please send an email to covid19taskforce@triumf.ca

Adrian Lee
Director, Facilities and Vice Chair, COVID-19 Task Force

Site-wide email update, February 16, 2022 - COVID Case at TRIUMF

Dear Colleagues,

On February 16^th 2022, a member of the TRIUMF community, who has been on-site, tested positive for COVID-19. Human Resources and Occupational Health & Safety have been informed and TRIUMF has connected with and provided guidance to those who may have been in recent contact with the individual. The affected areas where the individual were working have been reviewed and authorised for re-use by the Chief Safety Officer.

With the rate of COVID-19 infection remaining high at TRIUMF, we ask everyone continue following TRIUMF’s COVID-19 Health and Safety Protocols, which include staying home if you are symptomatic, abiding by TRIUMF’s mandatory mask policy in shared indoor spaces, and washing your hands regularly. Please take the time to review provincial recommendations for masks and face coverings at: BC CDC guidelines

Sincerely,

Adrian Lee
Director, Facilities and Vice Chair, COVID-19 Task Force

Site-wide email update, January 31, 2022 - COVID Cases at TRIUMF

Dear Colleagues,

On January 29^th 2022, a member of the TRIUMF community, who have been recently on-site, tested positive for COVID-19. Human Resources and Occupational Health & Safety have been informed and TRIUMF has connected with and provided guidance to those who may have been in recent contact with the individual. The affected areas where the individual were working have been reviewed and authorised for re-use by the Chief Safety Officer.

An additional member of the TRIUMF community, who has been off-site, has also tested positive for COVID-19 during this time.

Sincerely,

Adrian Lee
Director, Facilities and Vice Chair, COVID-19 Task Force

Site-wide email update, January 31, 2022 - Virtual Town Hall Meeting this Wednesday (2:30-3:30 PM)

Dear colleagues,

The next virtual Town Hall meeting will take place this Wednesday, February 2, 2022 from 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM.

This meeting will cover a number of important topics including recent facility and research news, upcoming major milestones, revisions to a key policy, and a few updates concerning on site services.

As usual, the meeting can be accessed using the standard web credentials (https://ubc.zoom.us/j/64964121809?pwd=NGRtRjNubmpSZHI0bGlEemMzYkdPZz09; Meeting ID: 649 6412 1809) or via telephone (778-907-2071; enter 649 6412 1809, press # twice, and if prompted for a passcode enter 538845). Also, I am happy to note that additional capacity has been added to the Zoom channel, which should address the connection issues some of the community faced at the last meeting.

I look forward to seeing everyone on Wednesday.

Sincerely,

Nigel Smith
Director & CEO

Site-wide email update, January 25, 2022 - COVID Cases at TRIUMF

Dear Colleagues,

Over the past two days (January 24-25, 2022), 3 members of the TRIUMF community, who have been recently on-site, tested positive for COVID-19. Human Resources and Occupational Health & Safety have been informed and TRIUMF has connected with and provided guidance to those who may have been in recent contact with the individuals. The affected areas where the individuals were working have been reviewed and authorised for re-use by the Chief Safety Officer.

An additional 1 member of the TRIUMF community, who has been off-site, has also tested positive for COVID-19 during this time.

Sincerely,

Adrian Lee Director, Facilities and Vice Chair, COVID-19 Task Force

Site-wide email update, January 21, 2022 - COVID Cases at TRIUMF

Dear Colleagues,

For the period from January 20 to January 21, 2022, two members of the TRIUMF community, who had recently been on-site, tested positive for COVID-19. Human Resources and Occupational Health & Safety have been informed and TRIUMF has connected with and provided guidance to those who may have been in recent contact with the individuals. The affected areas where the individual was working have been reviewed and authorised for re-use by the Chief Safety Officer.

With the rate of COVID-19 infection at TRIUMF, we ask everyone to be vigilant in following TRIUMF’s COVID-19 Health and Safety Protocols, which include staying home if you are symptomatic, abiding by TRIUMF’s mandatory mask policy in shared indoor spaces, and washing your hands regularly.

Sincerely,

Adrian Lee Director, Facilities and Vice Chair, COVID-19 Task Force

Site-wide email update, January 19, 2022 - COVID Cases at TRIUMF

Dear Colleagues,

On January 19, 2022, 1 member of the TRIUMF community, who has been recently on-site, tested positive for COVID-19. Human Resources and Occupational Health & Safety have been informed and TRIUMF has connected with and provided guidance to those who may have been in recent contact with the individual. The affected areas where the individual was working have been reviewed and authorised for re-use by the Chief Safety Officer.

Since January 14, 2022, an additional 3 members of the TRIUMF community, who have been off-site, have tested positive for COVID-19.

Sincerely,

Adrian Lee
Director, Facilities and Vice Chair, COVID-19 Task Force

Site-wide email update, January 14, 2022 - COVID Update

Dear Colleagues,

Over the past three days, we have had 3 offsite COVID cases and no on-site COVID cases. There is a reduction in individuals being directed by health authorities to undergo testing, and the latest numbers may not be completely indicative of spread. We should continue to be aware of operational impacts and note that some groups across TRIUMF are short staff and may have decreased capacity or ability to respond.

With the rate of COVID-19 infection high in our communities, we ask everyone to be vigilant in following TRIUMF’s COVID-19 Health and Safety Protocols, which include staying home if you are symptomatic, abiding by TRIUMF’s mandatory mask policy in shared indoor spaces, and washing your hands regularly.

Sincerely,

Adrian Lee
Director, Facilities and Vice Chair, COVID-19 Task Force

Site-wide email update, January 11, 2022 - Reminder: Virtual Town Hall Meeting Tomorrow (2:30-3:30 PM)

Dear colleagues,

A reminder that the first virtual Town Hall meeting of 2022 will take place tomorrow (Wednesday, January 12) from 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM. As previously noted, the meeting will focus on the evolving COVID-19 situation and the impact on TRIUMF. I strongly encourage all available staff and community members to attend.

You can join the meeting using the usual web credentials (https://ubc.zoom.us/j/64964121809?pwd=NGRtRjNubmpSZHI0bGlEemMzYkdPZz09; Meeting ID: 649 6412 1809) or via telephone (778-907-2071; enter 649 6412 1809, press # twice, and if prompted for a passcode enter 538845).  

Sincerely,

Nigel Smith
Director & CEO

Site-wide email update, January 11, 2022 - COVID Cases at TRIUMF

Dear Colleagues,

On January 11, 2022, 1 member of the TRIUMF community, who has been recently on-site, tested positive for COVID-19. Human Resources and Occupational Health & Safety have been informed and TRIUMF has connected with and provided guidance to those who may have been in recent contact with the individual. The affected areas where the individual was working have been reviewed and authorised for re-use by the Chief Safety Officer.

An additional member of the TRIUMF community, who has been off-site, has tested positive for COVID-19.

With the rate of COVID-19 infection increasing at TRIUMF, we ask everyone to be vigilant in following TRIUMF’s COVID-19 Health and Safety Protocols, which include staying home if you are symptomatic, abiding by TRIUMF’s mandatory mask policy in shared indoor spaces, and washing your hands regularly.

Sincerely,

Adrian Lee
Director, Facilities and Vice Chair, COVID-19 Task Force

Site-wide email update, January 10, 2022 - January 9, 2022 - COVID Cases at TRIUMF

Dear Colleagues,

On January 9, 2022, 2 members of the TRIUMF community, who have been recently on-site, tested positive for COVID-19. Human Resources and Occupational Health & Safety have been informed and TRIUMF has connected with and provided guidance to those who may have been in recent contact with the individuals. The affected areas where the individuals were working have been reviewed and authorised for re-use by the Chief Safety Officer.

An additional 15 members of the TRIUMF community, who have been off-site, have tested positive for COVID-19 for the period from January 7 to 10, 2022.

Sincerely,

Adrian Lee
Director, Facilities and Vice Chair, COVID-19 Task Force

Site-wide email update, January 6, 2022 - COVID-19 Update & Next Town Hall – Wednesday, Jan. 14

Dear colleagues,

As a follow-up to my message on January 4, as of 7:00 PM today, an additional 17 members of our community have tested positive for COVID-19. Of these new cases, only one, which was reported this afternoon, required on-site contact tracing; all other affected individuals have been offsite since the holiday break. TRIUMF has connected with and provided guidance to those who may have been in recent contact with the one individual who was recently on site. All areas where the individual was working have been reviewed and authorized for re-use by the Chief Safety Officer. The relevant health authority has also been notified and TRIUMF will follow further guidance and issue additional communications as required. TRIUMF staff and visitors may also refer to COVID-19 On-site Incident Tracker for more information.

Given the substantial increase in cases, and building on the earlier guidance that all staff and users should work from home if one’s duties permits, TRIUMF is implementing the following additional measures with immediate effect:

Occupancy limits will be re-posted for lunchrooms – people should not share a table when eating
Medical and surgical masks strongly recommended; cloth masks are acceptable
Limit in-person meetings to essential interactions; meet virtually whenever feasible
Large scale meetings in the auditorium will be restricted and auditorium reservations will require approval by the CSO or designee

Finally, the next virtual Town Hall meeting will take place on Wednesday, January 12^th from 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM. The first meeting of 2022 will focus on the evolving COVID-19 situation and the impact on TRIUMF. I strongly encourage all available staff and community members to attend.

Sincerely,

Nigel Smith
Director & CEO

Site-wide email update, January 4, 2022 - COVID-19 update

Dear colleagues,

Happy New Year! I hope everyone had an enjoyable holiday season.

Although an unfortunate way to begin 2022, it is clear that Canada is seeing a new surge of COVID cases due to the Omicron variant, including BC – and the impact is being felt within our community as well.

Since the last update on December 27, 2021, six additional members of our community have tested positive for COVID-19. Each of these cases occurred offsite and given the significant periods of time between their positive test and their last visit on site, it was determined there is no risk to the TRIUMF site.

These incidents are further evidence that COVID-19 is circulating within our local communities and as we return from the holidays, where many have been travelling and interacting with those outside of our usual bubbles, it is imperative that we take additional effort to safeguard our site. As such, TRIUMF is advising all staff and users to work from home if possible, limiting on-site work to those who must be at the lab to carry out their duties. By reducing density on-site, we add another layer of protection against on-site transmission.

In addition to this advisory, it is critical that all staff review TRIUMF’s COVID-19 Health and Safety Protocols, which include staying home if you are in any way ill, as well as abiding by TRIUMF’s mandatory mask policy. If you test positive for COVID-19, irrespective of the test type, please contact your supervisor and Occupational Heath and Safety (via covid-19-ehs@triumf.ca) immediately to communicate the results. Any supervisors who receive such reports of positive cases within their teams must also share this information with OHS and Human Resources (via idoyle@triumf.ca) to ensure the information is appropriately collected, recorded, and communicated.

Finally, I have also asked members of the COVID-19 Task Force to urgently review our current safety procedures and recommend any changes required due to the evolving situation. Further updates and changes will be communicated as required.

Thank you for your continued cooperation and effort to keep everyone safe.

Sincerely,

Nigel Smith

Director & CEO

Site-wide email update, December 27, 2021 - Offsite COVID Case

Dear Colleagues,

I am writing to inform you that a second member of the TRIUMF community has tested positive for COVID-19. As there was a significant period of time between their positive test and their last visit on site, no one at TRIUMF is thought to be impacted by this exposure.

Although this case presents no apparent risk to the TRIUMF site, this further highlights that COVID-19 and the Omicron variant continues to circulate broadly within our local communities. Please follow TRIUMF’s health and safety policies while on site, consistently monitor your health, do not come on site if you are ill and follow all public health guidelines while away from the laboratory.

As the COVID-19 situation escalates, future communications will focus on cases that pose specific risks to on-site safety and health, while off-site cases may be summarised and reported on separately depending on case numbers.

Please stay safe over the holiday break.

Sincerely,

Adrian Lee

Director, Facilities and Vice-Chair, COVID-19 Task Force

Site-wide email update, December 27, 2021 - COVID Case at TRIUMF

Dear Colleagues,

On December 26, 2021, a member of the TRIUMF community tested positive for COVID-19. Human Resources and Occupational Health & Safety have been informed and determined that the employee was last at TRIUMF on December 22, 2021.

TRIUMF has connected with and provided guidance to those who may have been in recent contact with the individual. The affected areas where the individual was working have been disinfected and any other areas where there may have been an interaction have been sanitized as per provincial guidelines.

With the rate of COVID-19 infection accelerating in the broader community, we ask everyone to be vigilant in following TRIUMF’s COVID-19 Health and Safety Protocols, which include staying home if you are symptomatic, abiding by TRIUMF’s mandatory mask policy in shared indoor spaces, and washing your hands regularly.

Sincerely,

Adrian Lee
Director, Facilities and Vice Chair, COVID-19 Task Force

Site-wide email update, December 15, 2021 - Final Site-Wide Reminder - Vaccination Verification Deadline is December 17

Important Reminder

Dear colleagues,

By December 17, all Appointees, all Employees, and those Visitors with site access must declare their vaccination status with TRIUMF. Details of this requirement, including the full policy and procedures, are available on the COVID-19 Resources page. Those who have not declared and provided verification of their first vaccine by December 17, 2021 will be deemed to be unvaccinated and will have their access restricted and status with TRIUMF impacted as per the policy.

All declarations, including the submission of supporting documentation, must be completed through the Thrive Health platform. If you have not received your Thrive Health invitation, please check you spam or junk folders. If this does not yield the email, please urgently submit a Helpdesk ticket to the EH&S queue or email to covid-19-ehs@triumf.ca. Full instructions on completing the declaration can be found here. Importantly, when registering in the system, please use the last four digits of the TRIUMF switchboard phone number (1047) as the identity verification code – no other numbers will work. Also, please note that you do not need to create a detailed personal profile for registration; all users can proceed directly to the “Update your vaccine declaration form” section and complete these fields.

To best manage the flow of questions, please do not reply to this email directly. For questions regarding the policy, please contact covid-19-ehs@triumf.ca. All questions related to personal circumstances should be sent to Human Resources via confidential@triumf.ca.

Thank you for your support.

Ian Doyle
Director, Human Resources

Site-wide email update, December 10, 2021 - REMINDER - Vaccination Verification Deadline is December 17

Dear colleagues,

By December 17, all Appointees, all Employees, and those Visitors with site access must declare their vaccination status with TRIUMF. Details of this requirement, including the full policy and procedures, are available on the COVID-19 Resources page. Those who do not provide verification that they have received their first vaccine by December 17, 2021 will be deemed to be unvaccinated and will have their access restricted and status with TRIUMF impacted as per the policy.

All declarations, including the submission of supporting documentation, must be completed through the Thrive Health platform. If you have not received your Thrive Health invitation, please check you spam or junk folders. If this does not yield the email, please submit a Helpdesk ticket to the EH&S queue or email to covid-19-ehs@triumf.ca. Full instructions on completing the declaration can be found here. Importantly, when registering in the system, please use the last four digits of the TRIUMF switchboard phone number (1047) as the identity verification code – no other numbers will work.

Should you have any questions not answered above, please do not reply to this email directly. For questions regarding the policy, please contact covid-19-ehs@triumf.ca. All questions related to personal circumstances should be sent to Human Resources via confidential@triumf.ca.

Sincerely,

Ian Doyle
Director, Human Resources

Site-wide email update, December 3, 2021 - Important Information for Vaccination Verification Procedure

Beginning December 17, TRIUMF will require that all Appointees, all Employees, and those Visitors with site access must declare their vaccination status with the organization. This action is rooted in our commitment to safeguarding our community, and is informed by guidance from public health officials, community feedback, and similar policies at our member universities.

Shortly, all Appointees and Employees, as well as Visitors with site access, should receive an invitation from Thrive Health to sign-up for their platform to verify vaccination status.

The sign-up process requires the verification of one’s telephone number. However, to streamline the process, all users have been assigned the main TRIUMF switchboard number (604-222-1047) as their contact number. When prompted by the system, please enter the last 4 digits of this number (1047) to complete the registration process. You do not need to create a detailed personal profile (because the essential registration information has already been entered into the system) and can proceed directly to the "update your vaccine declaration form" section.

Thrive will also ask you to create a password for secure login to the system. When creating a Thrive password, IST asks that users choose a different password from your TRIUMF TRIDENT login. [Not re-using passwords across platforms is good security practice to protect TRIUMF systems.]

If you do not receive a Thrive invitation in the next 24 hours, please try the following steps:

Check spam or junk folders
Check alternative email accounts.

For Appointees and Employees, the email should go to your TRIUMF.ca account.
For Visitors, if you do not have a TRIUMF email account or do not receive an invitation in this mailbox, please check other addresses you may have used for your initial registration in the TRIUMF system
If you are still unable to find the invitation, please submit a Helpdesk ticket to the EH&S queue.

Any other technical issues with the Thrive system should also be addressed to the Helpdesk EH&S queue.

Thank you for cooperation.

Shari Wallace

Chief Information Officer

Site-wide email update, December 1, 2021 - Vaccination Policy at TRIUMF

Dear colleagues,

Informed by guidance from public health officials, community feedback, and similar policies at our member universities, TRIUMF has made the decision to require the declaration and verification of vaccination for all Appointees, all Employees, and those Visitors with site access at TRIUMF.

This decision reflects our continued efforts to safeguard our community in response to the continued risk posed by the pandemic. In the interests of health and safety, we are implementing this requirement across TRIUMF.

This requirement is outlined in HR Policy 40 – COVID Vaccination Verification Policy (TRIDENT website login required).

How will this policy affect me?

HR Policy 40 (COVID Vaccination Verification Policy) will require you* to verify

your COVID-19 vaccination status as per health authority guidance and schedules. This requirement applies to all Appointees and Employees working either on-site or remote. Visitors with site access will also be subject to this requirement.

*BWXT Medical employees working on the TRIUMF site are also subject to their own policies which have been aligned with TRIUMF’s requirements. The vaccination information for BWXT staff should be disclosed through their own internal processes and not TRIUMF.

TRIUMF will be using Thrive Health Workplace application to collect and track vaccination status. Instructions on how to provide your verification are forthcoming and will be distributed in advance of the declaration deadlines, while initial guidance can be found in the relevant procedure document (TRIDENT website login required). This information will be treated confidentially and verified by a member of EH&S under the direction of the Director, HR.

Accommodations

If you are unvaccinated due to medical reasons or for reasons protected under the BC Human Rights Code, please email confidential@triumf.ca to specify the basis of your claim for exemption.

Important deadlines

Key date

Action required

December 17, 2021

Provide verification of having received at least one dose of an approved COVID-19 vaccine.

January 17, 2022

Provide verification of full vaccination.

Exemptions to this deadline may be granted to accommodate recommended time periods between doses.

Employees who do not provide verification of vaccination by these dates – excepting those who have received accommodation due to medical or protected reasons – will be placed on unpaid leave and will have their TRIUMF privileges and access to the site restricted. Visitors who have access or wish to have access to the TRIUMF site must also provide verification by the dates in the table above.

Employees will have until February 17, 2022 to provide verification of their vaccination status or be granted an accommodation. Continued non-compliance beyond this date may result in termination of employment at TRIUMF.

To help address questions regarding this new policy, TRIUMF has prepared a summary of HR Policy 40. Further updates and details around this and other related policies will be stored on the COVID-19 Resources web page.

We recognize that the decision to be vaccinated is a personal one; however, science has shown that vaccination protects yourself and those around you from COVID-19. In response, we continue to take informed action to ensure that the health, safety, and wellbeing of our community remains top priority.

For questions regarding the policy, please contact covid-19-ehs@triumf.ca.

All questions related to personal circumstances will be handled by Human Resources via the following confidential mailbox: confidential@triumf.ca.

Thank you for your support as we implement this new policy.

Best regards,

Nigel Smith
Director & CEO

Site-wide email update, November 29, 2021 - IMPORTANT REMINDER: Town Hall - Wednesday from 230 - 330

Dear colleagues,

As previously announced, the next virtual Town Hall will take place on Wednesday, December 1^st from 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM.

This meeting will focus on an important change coming to TRIUMF’s COVID-19 pandemic response plan. I strongly encourage all available staff and community members to attend.

I hope to see everyone there.

Best regards,

Nigel Smith
Director & CEO

Site-wide email update, November 23, 2021 - Next Virtual Town Hall Meeting - Wednesday, Dec. 1 (230 - 330)

Dear colleagues,

As a follow-up to the message below, TRIUMF’s next virtual Town Hall will take place next Wednesday, December 1^st at the usual 2:30-3:30 PM timeslot.

I will follow up later in the week with a reminder and further details.

Best regards,

Nigel Smith
Director & CEO

Site-wide email update, November 8, 2021 - Virtual Town Hall - Postponed

Dear colleagues,

This week’s Virtual Town Hall has been postponed.

An update on the new date and time of the meeting will be shared as soon as the details can be confirmed.

Best regards,

Nigel Smith
Director & CEO

Site-wide email update, October 22, 2021 - Holdiay 2021 Closures

Dear colleagues,

As many experienced directly, 2021 proved to be another busy year of change and transition for TRIUMF – made more challenging by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Nonetheless, TRIUMF's staff, students, and community rallied together and still continued to deliver world-class science and advance the goals in our Five-Year Plan.

In recognition of all the hard work from the entire team, I am pleased to say that TRIUMF will be providing several days of paid holiday over the festive season. The updated closure calendar is now live on the TRIUMF.ca Holidays & Closures page and is as follows:

Monday, December 27: TRIUMF Stat Holiday (observed for December 25th)
Tuesday, December 28: TRIUMF Paid Holiday (observed for December 26th)
Wednesday December 29: TRIUMF Paid Holiday
Thursday, December 30: TRIUMF Paid Holiday
Friday, December 31: TRIUMF Paid Holiday
Monday, January 3: TRIUMF Stat Holiday (observed for January 1st)

This break is very well deserved, and I hope everyone will take this time to rest and recharge ahead of what is sure to be an exciting new year.

Should you have any questions about this announcement, please contact Ian Doyle, Director of Human Resources.

Thank you again for your hard work and continued commitment to our laboratory.

Sincerely,

Nigel Smith
Director & CEO

Site-wide email update, October 19, 2021 - Virtual Town Hall - Wednesday, October 20 (2:30-3:30 PM)

Dear colleagues,

The next virtual Town Hall will take place tomorrow, Wednesday, October 20^th from 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM.

With a full agenda, this meeting will cover a range of topics, including the recent Board of Governors meeting, details from the Workday launch, updates from Safety, and more.

I hope to see everyone there.

Best regards,

Nigel Smith
Director & CEO

Site-wide email update, September 24, 2021 - Virtual Town Hall - Wednesday, September 29 (2:30-3:30 PM)

Dear colleagues,

The next virtual Town Hall will take place on Wednesday, September 29^th from 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM. This meeting will cover several important topics, including the Workday roll-out, upcoming IS&T changes, safety updates, and more.

I look forward to seeing everyone there.

Best regards,

Nigel Smith
Director & CEO

Site-wide email update, September 17, 2021 - TRIUMF COVID-19 Operations Update

Since the beginning of September there has been a noticeable increase in the number of people on site. Importantly, this increase in site activity and interactions have been accompanied by strong compliance with our current health and safety guidelines. We want to thank everyone for continuing to adhere to the mask mandate and continuing with your daily health check.

As we are still under COVID restrictions, we are only accepting visitors that are coming to site for approved research, maintenance, collaboration, or other official TRIUMF business. Friends, family, and public tours are not permitted while COVID restrictions remain in effect.

On August 24, 2021, BC reinstated a mask mandate for all indoor public spaces. In accordance with this announcement, masks are now mandatory in all indoor shared and common areas.  TRIUMF will continue to review the direction offered by government and will provide regular updates to the community as guidance evolves.

This mandate notwithstanding, the province remains in Step 3 of BC’s Restart Plan. In alignment with restart, TRIUMF has moved from COVID-19 specific responses, to a more general Communicable Disease Prevention approach that can be found here.

Most areas on site are no longer be subject to COVID-related occupancy limits; the MOB Auditorium (limited to 50 occupants) and lunchrooms are open.

Moving forward, continue to maintain good hand hygiene, get vaccinated, and monitor your health. If you are sick, stay home. Any changes in health status must be reported to your supervisor, who will then take appropriate actions following the guidance outlined in the  Communicable Disease Prevention Plan. You must report a change in health even if you are working remotely. DO NOT COME TO TRIUMF IF YOU ARE SICK IN ANY WAY.     

Adrian Lee 

Director, Facilities & Vice-Chair, COVID-19 Task Force

Site-wide email update, September 7, 2021 - Virtual Town Hall - Wednesday, September 8 (2:30-3:30 PM)

Dear colleagues,

The next virtual Town Hall will take place tomorrow, Wednesday, September 8^th from 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM.

Following what I hope was a relaxing Labour Day weekend for all, this meeting will provide a number of important updates on operations and ongoing projects. Ania Kwiatkowski and Grace Wong Sneddon will also provide an extended update on TRIUMF’s EDI Action Plan.

You can join the meeting using the following web credentials (https://ubc.zoom.us/j/64964121809?pwd=NGRtRjNubmpSZHI0bGlEemMzYkdPZz09; Meeting ID: 649 6412 1809) or via telephone (778-907-2071; enter 649 6412 1809, press # twice, and if prompted for a passcode enter 538845).

I hope to see everyone there.

Best regards,

Nigel Smith
Director & CEO

Site-wide email update, September 3, 2021 -Labour Day Weekend: Enjoy, and take care

Dear colleagues,

With the final long weekend of the summer ahead, I wanted to send a quick note of gratitude to thank you all for your hard work in our continued progress at TRIUMF. The summer has been full of activity, made possible by all your contributions.

Looking ahead to fall, we can anticipate some continued COVID uncertainty as we keep abreast of BC’s evolving safety measures, while also preparing for the back-to-school season (whether for ourselves or our loved ones). These measures remind us how important it is to keep ourselves and one another safe on-site. As you enjoy this Labour Day weekend, I hope you are able to find time to relax, connect with others safely, and take care of your mental and physical well-being. We’ll reconnect next week at our Town Hall on Wednesday, September 8^th.

And, speaking with a little over three months of TRIUMF experience now under my belt, I also want to extend my thanks to all those who have taken up my offer when I say, “my door is always open”. I’ve learned much from speaking with you and I look forward to continuing to do so as we move towards the last few months of this year.

Have a safe and relaxing long weekend.

Nigel Smith
Director & CEO

Site-wide email update, August 25, 2021 - Updates on the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and TRIUMF Water Quality

Dear colleagues,

On the heels of this afternoon’s Town Hall meeting, I wanted to follow-up with a message to ensure all staff are aware of two key developments.

Firstly, as announced at the meeting, TRIUMF will observe the newly established federal statutory holiday on September 30th, the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. As one of the 94 calls to action from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, this day is intended to mark the tragic history and ongoing impact of residential schools in Canada, as well as honor and support the survivors, families, and communities that continue to be affected. Consistent with our values of Equity and Inclusion, TRIUMF stands with Indigenous peoples in Canada and supports the ongoing efforts towards reconciliation. Coinciding with Orange Shirt Day, an effort that TRIUMF has supported for several years, I encourage all members of our community to use the day to reflect or engage on this important topic. Should you have questions about the operational or logistical impact of this new holiday, please contact your supervisor and Human Resources.

Secondly, as was also discussed at the Town Hall by Rock Neveau, TRIUMF’s Chief Safety Officer, the recent water advisory at TRIUMF has been lifted for nearly all buildings on site, with the sole exception of the Design Office. As Rock noted, testing has indicated that the water on site is safe for consumption; please see these slides for Rock’s report to the laboratory. I thank the entire community for your patience as we’ve worked through this matter, and I would like to extend my sincere thanks to everyone who helped respond and resolve this matter in such an efficient manner – another example of TRIUMF’s culture of great teamwork in action!

In closing, I wish everyone well and hope you all stay safe as we head into the final weeks of the summer.

Sincerely,

Nigel Smith
Director & CEO

Site-wide email update, August 24, 2021 - TRIUMF COVID-19 Operations Update

Today, BC announced a mask mandate that will come into effect Wednesday August 25, 2021. The Delta variant continues to prove highly transmissible and this is an additional measure to make indoor spaces safer for everyone.

In accordance with the new mandate, masks will be mandatory in all indoor common and shared spaces within TRIUMF starting Wednesday August 25. This is effectively a return to the mask mandate that TRIUMF had in effect up until the beginning of August.

We remain in Step 3 of the BC Restart Plan and the measures in our Communicable Disease Prevention Plan to keep our workplace safe continue to be in effect:

Daily health check – Self-monitor for symptoms and sickness and stay home if you are sick
Hand hygiene – Continue to wash your hands frequently
Vaccination – Vaccination is our primary method of protection and prevention of COVID 19.  Everyone is highly encouraged to get vaccinated and obtain your second vaccination dose if you have not done so.
And now mandatory masks in all indoor common and shared spaces.

Going forward, the COVID-19 Task Force will continue to monitor the guidance provided by the Government of BC and Worksafe BC, and we will provide updates as changes affect our workplace.  Questions or concerns regarding TRIUMF’s response to COVID-19 can be directed to covid19taskforce@triumf.ca

Adrian Lee 

Director, Facilities & Vice-Chair, COVID-19 Task Force

Site-wide email update, August 23, 2021 - Virtual Town Hall - Wednesday, August 25 (2:30 - 3:30)

Dear colleagues,

The next virtual Town Hall will take place this Wednesday, August 25^th from 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM.

Fresh off the heels of a successful Science Week, this meeting will provide a number of important updates on operations and ongoing projects. Notably, Rock Neveau, TRIUMF’s Chief Safety Officer, will provide an update on the water quality issues on site.

I hope to see everyone for the last Town Hall of August.

Best regards,

Nigel Smith
Director & CEO

Site-wide email update, August 13, 2021 - Future of Work Next Steps

Dear colleagues,

Many thanks to those who completed the Future of Work survey. To recap, the survey has now been closed and the data are being reviewed by Leadership, with the results to be shared with the community in due course. At this point, we will be moving to the second phase of our evaluation process. This process will be informed by our guiding principles for post-pandemic work at TRIUMF, and will follow the timeline presented in our most recent Town Hall:

Stage 1: Lab wide opinion survey (summer; complete)
Stage 2: Operational necessity review (fall)
Stage 3: Resource and legal impact review (fall)
Stage 4: Research and design of policy & procedure (late fall)

Our goal is to have a formalized remote work policy approved by January 2022. During this interim period, existing working arrangements can continue, with each division and group determining how best with each division and group determining how best to organise its work in accordance with BC’s Restart Plan and any subsequent guidance that may come from provincial health authorities. These arrangements can remain until a policy is in place for the new year; please refer to the Q&A below for general guidance moving forward. If you have any further questions or concerns, please reach out to your ALD or Deputy Director.

We recognize that this pandemic is not yet over, and remote work remains a fixture in many of our lives. As we continue to develop a sustainable model for remote work at TRIUMF, we thank you for your continued commitment and understanding.

Sincerely,

Nigel Smith

Director & CEO

Q&A – WORK ARRANGEMENTS FOR FALL 2021

Q: I’ve been working remotely throughout the pandemic – will I be forced to return to site?

A: No – in line with our guiding principles for post-pandemic work at TRIUMF, we will work to ensure that all employees across the spectrum of working arrangements – from fully remote to fully on-site – are equally valued. Our progress towards a formal remote work policy will be informed by both the needs of our community and the laboratory’s operational requirements.

Q: Since I am working remotely full-time, can I continue to work for TRIUMF if a move to a different city/province/country?

A: At this time, we advise that staff do not make any major decisions that might impact their ability to return to site in some capacity, given that there is not yet a policy in place to regulate these situations and ensure equity across the community.

Q: With BC moving into Step 4 soon, can I have my whole team back on-site?

A: While we recognize it’s exciting to have things returning to normal, we encourage everyone to be considerate and respectful of their colleagues’ working arrangements. It is strongly encouraged and recommended that employees engage their supervisors to determine an approach to returning to site that meets both operational need and personal circumstances.

Site-wide email update, July 26, 2021 - Next Virtual Town Hall - Wednesday, July 28 (2:30 - 3:30)

Dear colleagues,

The next virtual Town Hall will take place this Wednesday, July 28^th from 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM. This meeting will provide updates on a wide range of topics, including TRIUMF’s Career Performance Rewards framework, a number of health and safety matters, Science Week 2021, and more.

I hope to see everyone there.

Best regards,

Nigel Smith
Director & CEO

Site-wide email update, July 5, 2021 - Next Virtual Town Hall - Wednesday, July 7 (2:30 - 3:30)

Dear colleagues,

The next virtual Town Hall will take place this Wednesday, July 7^th from 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM. This meeting will cover a number of important topics, including recent changes to COVID-19 policies, updates on the ongoing quality and management systems efforts, and more.

I look forward to seeing everyone there.

Best regards,

Sincerely,

Nigel Smith
Director & CEO

Site-wide email update, June 30, 2021 - TRIUMF COVID-19 Operations Update

On July 1, the British Columbia Restart Plan will transition into Step 3 of a 4-step plan to re-open the province. Step 3 of the Restart Plan represents a major step in the return to normal, with a move from COVID-19 specific responses, to a more general Communicable Disease Prevention approach. For TRIUMF, the major changes in Step 3 are as follows:

Elimination of occupancy limits – all areas (except MOB Auditorium limited to 50) on site will no longer be subject to COVID related occupancy limits.

You can share an office
You can sit in adjacent cubicles
You can eat lunch with a colleague
You can have larger in-person meetings

Face masks will continue to be mandatory in shared indoor spaces at TRIUMF until August 1 at which time they will become recommended.

BC Provincial Health recommends face masks indoors for all who are not yet two weeks past their 2^nd vaccination
BC 2^nd vaccinations are currently at 30% and we want to allow the opportunity for the majority of staff to achieve full vaccination
We are substantially increasing site density and interactions and want to provide a safe, smooth transition
You can work within 2m of another person without the requirement of N95 masks, but you must still wear a face mask
After August 1, please respect those who request you wear a mask; Individual comfort levels, circumstances, and health status vary and we must be respectful and safe in our interactions

Complementing these changes, some measures will be in place to keep our workplace safe. These are:

Daily health check – Self-monitor for symptoms and sickness and stay home if you are sick
Hand hygiene – Continue to wash your hands frequently
Vaccination – Vaccination is our primary method of protection and prevention of COVID 19. Everyone is highly encouraged to get vaccinated and obtain your second vaccination dose if you have not done so.

Starting July 1, 2021 all restrictions around coming to work on site are lifted. TRIUMF is still accommodating working from home with further guidance to be provided later this summer.

A full update of TRIUMF’s Operational Plan can be found at the top of the COVID-19 Employee Resource webpage: https://www.triumf.ca/COVID-19%20RESOURCES.

Going forward, the COVID-19 Task Force will continue to monitor the guidance provided by the Government of BC and WorkSafe BC, and we will provide updates as the province moves through the identified steps. Questions or concerns regarding TRIUMF’s response to COVID-19 can be directed to covid19taskforce@triumf.ca

Adrian Lee

Director, Facilities & Vice-Chair, COVID-19 Task Force

Site-wide email update, June 4, 2021 - No Town Hall next week | Next meeting – June 16 (2:30-3:30 PM)

Dear colleagues,

There will be no Town Hall next week.

As I am ramping up at TRIUMF, the plan will be to put three weeks between future meetings, with the possibility of special off-cycle Town Halls if required.

As such, the next virtual Town Hall will take place on Wednesday, June 16^th from 2:30 – 3:30 PM.

Sincerely,

Nigel Smith
Director & CEO

Site-wide email update, May 26, 2021 - TRIUMF COVID-19 Operations Update

On May 25^th, the British Columbia Restart Plan was released providing a four-step process to reopen the province; BC is currently in Step 1.

Overall, Step 1 of the Restart Plan lays out a gradual return to the workplace while maintaining our current COVID Safety Plan and daily health checks. For TRIUMF this means all staff should continue to work from home if possible and continue to limit non-essential visits to site. We are required to continue to maintain physical distancing, so site occupancy must remain at a low level. A full update of TRIUMF’s Operational Plan can be found at the top of the COVID-19 Employee Resource webpage: https://www.triumf.ca/COVID-19%20RESOURCES.

Going forward, we will continue to monitor the guidance provided by the Government of BC and Worksafe BC, and provide updates as the province moves through the identified steps.

The BC Restart Plan is a welcome and long-awaited indication that we have the end of this pandemic in sight. The restart is contingent on increasing vaccination and continued reduction of COVID case numbers, so it is incumbent on all of us to continue to do our part to keep our community safe.

Adrian Lee

Director, Facilities & Vice-Chair, COVID-19 Task Force

Site-wide email update, May 21, 2021 - Next Virtual Town Hall - Wednesday, May 26 (2:30-4:00)

As previously announced, the next virtual Town Hall will take place on Wednesday, May 26^th, from 2:30 PM – 4:00 PM.

This extended 90 minute meeting will provide updates on a number of important topics, including the COVID-19 Task Force, the ongoing management systems improvements, Workday implementation, and the final stages of TRIUMF incorporation. In addition, this meeting will also feature an introduction to and discussion with TRIUMF’s new Director and CEO, Dr. Nigel Smith.

Please be advised that due to changes to TRIUMF’s Zoom accounts, the login information for this meeting has changed. The new credentials are as follows: https://ubc.zoom.us/j/64964121809?pwd=NGRtRjNubmpSZHI0bGlEemMzYkdPZz09; Meeting ID: 649 6412 1809 or telephone (778-907-2071; enter 649 6412 1809), and press # twice). If prompted for a passcode, enter 538845.

We look forward to seeing everyone there.

Sincerely,

Sean Lee
Head, External Relations

Interim Head, Strategic Communications

Site-wide email update, May 14, 2021 - Guiding Principles for Post-Pandemic Work at TRIUMF

Dear TRIUMF Community,

With the ongoing vaccine roll-out across British Columbia, we have begun the task of preparing for post-pandemic operations at TRIUMF. COVID-19 has imposed new ways of working upon many of us, and now is a prime opportunity for us to capture some of these lessons learned and adapt our processes and policies to suit the future needs of our community and TRIUMF’s operations. The following principles will guide our return to work:

Post-COVID-19 return to site will be planned with the community’s health and safety as a priority, with actions guided by Provincial Health Authorities and WorkSafe BC.
TRIUMF recognizes that, for some, remote work will become a formalized organizational practice, but specific details and policy must still be developed.
TRIUMF will review relevant best practices in developing a remote work program that is clear, sustainable, and best meets the laboratory’s operational requirements.
It is vital that all employees have inclusive work arrangements that support and maintain connection with the TRIUMF community.
All employees, across the spectrum of working arrangements from fully remote to hybrid to fully on-site, will be equally valued.

Regardless of where you may be working now, we’d like to extend heartfelt gratitude for your continued dedication and contributions across fourteen long, difficult months. For those whose jobs required them to be at TRIUMF during the entire pandemic, thank you for your efforts to support our day-to-day operations during these extraordinary circumstances. For our remote workers, we appreciate you staying home to minimize the risk for those conducting essential work on site. As we move towards a post COVID-19 future and explore new approaches to remote work, we hope to maintain connections that have kept our community strong during this time.

Thank you for your support and we look forward to keeping you updated as our planning work progresses.

Anne Louise Aboud Reiner Kruecken

Deputy Director, Operations /COO Deputy Director, Research/ CRO

Site-wide email update, May 10, 2021 - No Town Hall this week | Next meeting – May 26 (2:30-4:00 PM)

Dear colleagues,

There will be no Town Hall this week.

The next virtual Town Hall will take place on Wednesday, May 26^th from 2:30 – 4:00 PM. Planned as an extended 90 minute session, this meeting will feature several updates, as well as an address by TRIUMF’s incoming Director, Dr. Nigel Smith.

Further details and meeting credentials will be shared in the coming weeks.

Sincerely,

Sean Lee
Head, External Relations

Interim Head, Strategic Communications

Site-wide email update, May 5, 2021 - COVID-19 Case at TRIUMF

Dear Colleagues,

On May 4, 2021, a member of the TRIUMF community tested positive for COVID-19. Human Resources and Occupational Health & Safety have been informed and determined that the employee was last at TRIUMF on April 30, 2021.

The relevant health authority has been notified and TRIUMF will follow further guidance from them and issue additional communications as required. TRIUMF staff and visitors can also monitor the COVID-19 On-site Incident Tracker for future updates. Any questions or concerns should be addressed to covid19taskforce@triumf.ca.

With the spread of COVID-19 continuing to take place in the broader community, we ask everyone to be vigilant in following TRIUMF’s COVID-19 Health and Safety Protocols, which include maintaining a 2 metre distance from peers, abiding by TRIUMF’s mandatory mask policy in shared indoor spaces and close proximity in outdoor spaces, and washing your hands regularly. Please continue to exercise caution in your local communities and adhere to provincial health orders.

Finally, please be advised that Provincial COVID-19 vaccinations are underway; you can keep up-to-date on their availability within your region and age range by visiting the following link: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/covid-19/vaccine/plan#register.

Sincerely,

Adrian Lee
Director, Facilities and Vice Chair, COVID-19 Task Force

Site-wide email update, May 3, 2021 - Next Virtual Town Hall - Wednesday, May, 5 (2:30-3:30)

Dear Colleagues,

A special virtual Town Hall will take place this Wednesday, May 5th, from 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM. This meeting will begin with operational updates followed by a feature presentation on TRIUMF’s Career, Performance, and Rewards frameworks, as well as upcoming compensation adjustments.

Please be advised that due to technical changes to TRIUMF’s Zoom accounts, the login information has changed and may vary for the next few meetings until a permanent solution can be found. This week’s credentials are as follows:

(https://ubc.zoom.us/j/67695421558?pwd=T1g0QkJtMmdnczVMUTVDQ2dkaG1mQT09; Meeting ID: 676 9542 1558) or telephone (778-907-2071; enter 676 9542 1558, and press # twice). If prompted for a passcode, enter 633471.

We look forward to seeing everyone there.

Sincerely,

Sean Lee
Head, External Relations

Interim Head, Strategic Communications

Site-wide email update, May 2, 2021 - COVID Case at TRIUMF

Dear Colleagues,

On May 2, 2021, a member of the TRIUMF community tested positive for COVID-19. Human Resources and Occupational Health & Safety have been informed and determined that the employee was last at TRIUMF on April 29, 2021.

Sincerely,

Adrian Lee
Director, Facilities and Vice Chair, COVID-19 Task Force

Site-wide email update, April 26, 2021 - Town Hall Postponed to Next Week (May 5th)

Dear Colleagues,

This week’s virtual Town Hall has been postponed one week to Wednesday, May 5 from 2:30-3:30.

Further details will be communicated in the coming days.

We look forward to seeing you all next week.

Sincerely,

Sean Lee
Head, External Relations

Interim Head, Strategic Communications

Site-wide email update, April 26, 2021 - COVID-19 Case at TRIUMF

On April 26th, 2021, a member of the TRIUMF community tested positive for COVID-19. Human Resources and Occupational Health & Safety have been informed and determined that the employee was last at TRIUMF on April 22, 2021.

Provincial COVID-19 vaccinations are underway, please be aware of their availability within your region and age range by visiting the following link: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/covid-19/vaccine/plan.

Sincerely,

Adrian Lee
Director, Facilities and Vice Chair, COVID-19 Task Force

Site-wide email update, April 19, 2021 - New COVID Case Update

Dear Colleagues,

In the interests of full transparency, we are writing to inform you that a member of the TRIUMF community has tested positive for COVID-19; however, they have not been on site for several months and therefore posed no risk to the site, operations, or our staff.

This case is yet another reminder that the virus is widely circulating within our local communities. Please follow TRIUMF’s health and safety policies while on site, consistently self-monitor your health, do not come on site if you are ill and follow all public health guidelines while away from the laboratory.

Sincerely,

Anne Louise Aboud

Deputy Director, Operations, Chief Operating Officer and Chair, COVID-19 Task Force

Adrian Lee

Director, Facilities and Vice-Chair, COVID-19 Task Force

Site-wide email update, April 15, 2021 - COVID-19 Case at TRIUMF

Dear Colleagues,

On April 15^th, 2021, a member of the TRIUMF community tested positive for COVID-19. Human Resources and Occupational Health & Safety have been informed and determined that the employee was last at TRIUMF on Tuesday, April 13^th.

TRIUMF has connected with and provided guidance to those who may have been in recent close contact with the individual. The affected areas where the individual was working have been disinfected and any other areas where there may have been an interaction have been sanitized as per provincial guidelines. At this time, the assessment has been made of no additional exposure risk to staff and visitors.

With spread continuing to take place in the broader community, we ask everyone to be vigilant in following TRIUMF’s COVID-19 Health and Safety Protocols, which include maintaining a 2 metre distance from peers, abiding by TRIUMF’s mandatory mask policy in shared indoor spaces and close proximity in outdoor spaces, and washing your hands regularly. Also, if your work requires close contact with others, please remember to notify OH&S before beginning work to receive a N95 mask that must be worn for the duration of the activity.

Thank you for your continued adherence to TRIUMF’s COVID-19 protocols.

Sincerely,

Anne Louise Aboud

Deputy Director, Operations, Chief Operating Officer and Chair, COVID-19 Task Force

Adrian Lee

Director, Facilities and Vice-Chair, COVID-19 Task Force

Site-wide email update, April 12, 2021 - Next Virtual Town Hall - Wednesday, April 14 (2:30-3:30)

Dear Colleagues,

The next virtual Town Hall will take place on Wednesday, April 14th, from 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM. This meeting will include the regular operational updates, as well as a feature talk on TRIUMF’s Energy Management Program.

You can join the meeting using the regular credentials: (https://ca01web.zoom.us/j/66749857662?pwd=TlVNdXFSZ0ZaSzNhdHo1ZEJDL2grdz09; Meeting ID: 66749857662) or telephone (778-907-2071; enter 667-4985-7662, and press # twice). If prompted for a passcode, enter 159024.

Sincerely,

Sean Lee
Head, External Relations

Interim Head, Strategic Communications

Site-wide email update, April 3, 2021 - COVID-19 Case at TRIUMF

Dear Colleagues,

On April 3^rd, 2021, a member of the TRIUMF community tested positive for COVID-19. Human Resources and Occupational Health & Safety have been informed and determined that the employee was last at TRIUMF on Wednesday March 31^st.

Thank you for your continued adherence to TRIUMF’s COVID-19 protocols.

Sincerely,

Adrian Lee
Director, Facilities and Vice Chair, COVID-19 Task Force

Site-wide email update, March 29, 2021 - Circuit Breaker Lockdown Announced for BC

Dear Colleagues,

The message is to inform you that BC has today instituted a new “circuit-breaker” lockdown due to a surge in COVID-19 infections. The new health orders mandate:

No indoor dining; restaurants are limited to take-out or patio service with immediate household or bubble
Working from home where possible
Avoiding all non-essential travel;
Ceasing all indoor adult group fitness activities; gym and fitness centres restricted to one-on-one or individual training
Encouraging students from Grade 4 and higher to wear masks at school; and
Cancelling all indoor worship; outdoor worship may continue.
Closing Whistler-Blackcomb ski facilities

These new measures come into effect at midnight tomorrow (March 30) and run until April 19.

TRIUMF’s latest operational plan, last updated on March 14, remains in effect. As previously stated (see announcements below for further details), on-site activity is limited to “essential work” only – activities that are critical to the laboratory’s ongoing operation. At this time, the plan remains to continue executing all scheduled and already planned shutdown projects, ARIEL work, $25M infrastructure projects, critical maintenance and other research that requires on-site activity. If your work can be carried out at home, please do so; all elective (i.e. non-essential) visits to the laboratory should be suspended until further notice.

Further to these new restrictions, the COVID-19 Task Force will continue to review its policies to ensure TRIUMF is aligned with the latest best practices. Further COVID-19 updates are planned for Wednesday’s Town Hall hosted by Reiner.

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation as we continue navigating this pandemic together.

Anne Louise Aboud

Deputy Director, Operations, Chief Operating Officer and Chair, COVID-19 Task Force

Adrian Lee

Director, Facilities and Vice-Chair, COVID-19 Task Force

Site-wide email update, March 26, 2021 - Next Virtual Town Hall - Wednesday, Mar. 31 (2:30-3:30)

Dear Colleagues,

The next virtual Town Hall will take place this Wednesday, March 17^th, from 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM. This meeting will feature updates on pandemic response, the ongoing efforts to update TRIUMF’s management systems, and the status of the Workday project. The feature presentation will focus on TRIUMF’s incorporation with an update presented by Interim Director Digvir Jayas.

Sincerely,

Sean Lee
Head, External Relations

Interim Head, Strategic Communications

Site-wide email update, March 16, 2021 - New COVID-19 Case Update

Dear Colleagues,

In the interests of full transparency, we are writing to inform you that a member of the TRIUMF community has tested positive for COVID-19. Through contact tracing it was determined that the individual’s exposure to the virus occurred in the wider community after their last visit on site. Therefore, no one at TRIUMF was impacted by this exposure.

Although this case presents no risk to TRIUMF staff, it is another reminder that the virus continues to circulate broadly within our local communities. Please follow TRIUMF’s health and safety policies while on site, consistently self-monitor your health, do not come on site if you are ill and follow all public health guidelines while away from the laboratory.

Sincerely,

Anne Louise Aboud

Deputy Director, Operations, Chief Operating Officer and Chair, COVID-19 Task Force

Adrian Lee

Director, Facilities and Vice-Chair, COVID-19 Task Force

Site-wide email update, March 15, 2021 - Next Virtual Town Hall - Wednesday, Mar. 17 (2:30-3:30)

Dear Colleagues,

Sincerely,

Sean Lee
Head, External Relations

Interim Head, Strategic Communications

Site-wide email update, March 14, 2021 - Important Updates from the COVID-19 Task Force

Dear Colleagues,

In response to several inquiries following the dissemination of Thursday’s site-wide message, we’d like to provide some clarification regarding the current state of TRIUMF operations.

At this time, we’re asking that on-site activity be limited to “essential work” only – activities that are critical to the laboratory’s ongoing operation. The intent is to carry out all scheduled shutdown projects, ARIEL work, $25M infrastructure projects, critical maintenance and other research that requires on-site activity and was already planned. Conversely, if your work can be carried out at home, we ask that it be done as such; all elective (i.e. non-essential) visits to the laboratory should be placed on hold until further notice.

For all on-site work, extra consideration should also be given to the scheduling of these activities. For example, when safe and appropriate, please consider shifting planned work to off-peak hours (late afternoon, evenings, weekends) as a means to reduce on-site density. In particular, this relates to research activities that can be scheduled in a flexible manner.

Additional information and guidance will be shared at the next Town Hall on Wednesday; however, should you have any specific or urgent questions, please contact your respective ALD or Deputy Director.

Thank you to everyone for your continued cooperation as we work together to respond to the challenges of the ongoing pandemic.

Sincerely,

Anne Louise Aboud

Deputy Director, Operations, Chief Operating Officer and Chair, COVID-19 Task Force

Adrian Lee

Director, Facilities and Vice-Chair, COVID-19 Task Force

Site-wide email update, March 11, 2021 - Important Updates from the COVID-19 Task Force

Dear Colleagues,

A year ago today, on March 11, 2020, the global COVID-19 pandemic was declared by the World Health Organization (WHO). Regrettably, on this anniversary, another member of our TRIUMF community has tested positive for COVID-19. The affected employee was last at TRIUMF on Monday, March 8^th and had no close contact with anyone on site. The individual’s workspace and any other areas where there may have been an interaction have been sanitized as per provincial guidelines. Contact tracing suggests that this case poses no additional exposure risk to staff and visitors.

Over the last few weeks, four TRIUMF staff have tested positive for the virus - which represents half of all our cases to date. While there have been no cases of direct transmission on site, these incidents remind us all of the importance of continued vigilance. To this end, TRIUMF is advising all staff to work from home, only coming on site to carry out essential activities; the Operations statement on the COVID-19 Resources webpage has been updated with this latest guidance. If you are unsure if your work requires your presence at the laboratory, please contact your respective ALD or Deputy Director.

With the vaccine roll out on the horizon, it is critical that we do not become complacent. COVID-19 and its recent variants are present in our local communities and we need to be vigilant both on and off-site. Although it has been nearly a year since restrictions were enacted on site, the low number of cases among our staff are a testament to the effectiveness of our policies and procedures.

For the health and safety of you and your colleagues, please continue to follow TRIUMF’s COVID-19 Health and Safety Protocols. Wear your mask in shared indoor areas (including the badge room), physically distance, and wash your hands frequently. Please note that masks are also required outdoors if you are unable to observe appropriate physical distancing. Most critically, it is essential that everyone self-monitor their health status; please do not come on site if you feel ill in any way.

Finally, as guidance from public health authorities continues to evolve, the COVID-19 Task Force reviews its policies regularly to ensure TRIUMF remains in compliance with best practices. We commit to proactively communicating changes and new directives as soon as they become available.

Thank you for your understanding and ongoing support as we continue to navigate this pandemic together.

Anne Louise Aboud

Deputy Director, Operations, Chief Operating Officer and Chair, COVID-19 Task Force

Adrian Lee

Director, Facilities and Vice-Chair, COVID-19 Task Force

Site-wide email update, March 9, 2021 - Positive COVID-19 Case at TRIUMF

Dear Colleagues,

On March 8^th, 2021, another member of the TRIUMF community tested positive for COVID-19. Human Resources and Occupational Health & Safety have been informed and determined that the employee was last at TRIUMF on Sunday, March 7^th. It has also been confirmed through contact tracing that there was no link between last week’s case and this new positive test.

TRIUMF has connected and provided guidance to those who may have been in recent contact with the individual. The individual’s work space and any other areas where there may have been an interaction have been sanitized as per provincial guidelines. At this time, the assessment has been made of no additional exposure risk to staff and visitors.

Fraser Health Authority has been notified and TRIUMF will follow further guidance from them and issue additional communications as required. TRIUMF staff and visitors can also monitor the COVID-19 On-site Incident Tracker for future updates. Any questions or concerns should be addressed to covid19taskforce@triumf.ca.

As always, we ask everyone to continue to follow TRIUMF’s COVID-19 Health and Safety Protocols, which include maintaining a 2 metre distance from peers, abiding by TRIUMF’s mandatory mask policy in shared indoor spaces and close proximity in outdoor spaces, and washing your hands regularly.

Thank you for your understanding and continued adherence to COVID-19 protocols.

Sincerely,

Anne Louise Aboud
Deputy Director, Operations & Chair, COVID-19 Task Force

Site-wide email update, March 5, 2021 - Positive COVID-19 Case at TRIUMF

Dear Colleagues,

On March 4, 2021, a member of the TRIUMF community tested positive for COVID-19. Human Resources and Occupational Health & Safety have been informed and determined that the employee was last at TRIUMF on Monday, March 1^st.

Vancouver Coastal Health Authority has been notified; TRIUMF will follow further guidance from them and issue additional communications as required. TRIUMF staff and visitors can also monitor the COVID-19 On-site Incident Tracker for future updates. Any questions or concerns should be addressed to covid19taskforce@triumf.ca.

Thank you for your understanding and continued adherence to COVID-19 protocols.

Sincerely,

Anne Louise Aboud
Deputy Director, Operations & Chair, COVID-19 Task Force

Site-wide email update, February 26, 2021 - Next Virtual Town Hall - Wednesday, Mar. 3 (2:30-3:30)

Dear Colleagues,

The next virtual Town Hall will take place on March 3^rd from 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM. This meeting will feature a updates on some key activities taking place across the laboratory, as well as a feature presentation on the recent progress that has been made on the construction of the Institute for Advanced Medical Isotopes.

Sincerely,

Sean Lee
Head, External Relations

Interim Head, Strategic Communications

Site-wide email update, February 18, 2021 - Positive COVID-19 Case at TRIUMF

Dear Colleagues,

On February 18, 2021, a member of the TRIUMF community tested positive for COVID-19. Human Resources and Occupational Health & Safety have been informed and determined that the employee was last at TRIUMF on Tuesday, February 16.

It was determined that the affected individual observed the required mask and physical distancing guidelines on site, and was not in close contact with anyone else during their time at TRIUMF. The individual’s workspace and any other areas where there may have been an interaction have been sanitized as per provincial guidelines. At this time, the assessment has been made of no additional exposure risk to staff and visitors.

Thank you for your understanding and continued adherence to COVID-19 protocols.

Sincerely,

Anne Louise Aboud
Deputy Director, Operations & Chair, COVID-19 Task Force

Site-wide email update, February 12, 2021 - Next Virtual Town Hall - Wednesday, Feb. 17 (2:30-3:30)

Dear Colleagues,

The next virtual Town Hall will take place on February 17th, from 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM. This meeting will feature an update on the Workday project (including an interactive pulse survey), as well as addresses from Digvir Jayas and Nigel Smith as follow-up to the recent announcement of TRIUMF’s next Director.

Sincerely,

Sean Lee
Head, External Relations

Interim Head, Strategic Communications

Site-wide email update, January 29, 2021 - Next Virtual Town Hall - Wednesday, Feb. 3 (2:30-3:30)

Dear Colleagues,

A quick reminder that the next virtual Town Hall will take place on February 3rd, from 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM. The Town Hall will feature several laboratory updates, as well as a presentation from Hua Yang on TRIUMF’s achievements related to Actinium-225.

Sincerely,

Sean Lee
Head, External Relations

Interim Head, Strategic Communications

Site-wide email update, January 26, 2021 - COVID-19 Vaccination Update & Additional Resources

Dear Colleagues,

Further to last week’s virtual town hall meeting in which we discussed the latest news regarding BC’s COVID-19 situation, I wanted to provide an update regarding the Province’s recently released vaccination plan.

BC’s COVID-19 Immunization Plan follows a phased approach based on risk and age. The chart below provides a summary; however, full details of the plan can be found in the Government’s news release and official website.

The plan prioritizes the immunization of those who are most vulnerable to severe illness and death, including long-term care residents and the health-care workers who care for them, remote and at-risk Indigenous communities, and seniors. From there, the rollout is expected to be based primarily on age, with the possibility that some essential sectors maybe be targeted for earlier access in Phase 3 if additional vaccine is made available.

More information on British Columbia’s vaccination plans, along with other key resources, has been collected on the new External Links and Resources page, which is also accessible from TRIUMF’s main COVID-19 page.

TRIUMF’s COVID-19 Task Force will continue to monitor the situation and share additional information as it becomes available.

Sincerely,

Anne Louise Aboud

Deputy Director, Operations & Chair, COVID-19 Task Force

Site-wide email update, January 14 - Positive COVID-19 Case at TRIUMF

Dear Colleagues,

On January 14, 2021, a member of the TRIUMF community tested positive for COVID-19. Human Resources and Occupational Health & Safety have been informed and determined that the employee had not been onsite in the past nine days. TRIUMF has reached out to all employees and visitors that may have been in contact during the individual's last visit. The individual’s work space and any other areas where there may have been an interaction have been sanitized as per provincial guidelines. At this time, the assessment has been made of no additional exposure risk to staff and visitors.

As always, we ask everyone to continue to follow TRIUMF’s COVID-19 health and safety protocols, which include maintaining a 2 metre distance from peers, abiding by TRIUMF’s mandatory mask policy in shared indoor spaces, and washing your hands regularly.

Thank you for your understanding and continued cooperation.

Sincerely,

Anne Louise Aboud
Deputy Director, Operations & Chair, COVID-19 Task Force

Site-wide email update, January 14 -Virtual Town Hall Wednesday, Jan. 20 (2:30-3:30)

From the Office of the Director

Dear Colleagues,

Welcome back, and Happy New Year!

TRIUMF will be hosting the first virtual Town Hall of 2021 on January 20th, from 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM. The Town Hall will include updates about our shutdown activities, a review of our COVID-19 protocols, and a brief update regarding Workday - our future ERP solution.

We look forward to seeing you all next week.

Sincerely,

Sean Lee
Head, External Relations
Interim Head, Strategic Communications

Site-wide email update, December 15 - Reminder - Virtual Town Hall Tomorrow

Dear Colleagues,

This week’s Virtual Town Hall will take place tomorrow, Wednesday, December 16^th from 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM. As the final such meeting for 2020, we will use the occasion to offer updates on new developments across the laboratory, as well provide a sendoff to our Director, Dr. Jonathan Bagger.

I hope everyone will be able to attend and help us bid farewell to Jonathan. Please join the meeting using the regular credentials: (https://ca01web.zoom.us/j/66749857662?pwd=TlVNdXFSZ0ZaSzNhdHo1ZEJDL2grdz09; Meeting ID: 66749857662) or telephone (778-907-2071; enter 667-4985-7662, and press # twice). If prompted for a passcode, enter 159024.   

Sincerely,

Sean Lee
Head, External Relations
Interim Head, Strategic Communications

Site-wide email update, December 7 - Reminder - Special Virtual Town Hall this Wednesday

Dear Colleagues,

As announced at the last meeting, this week I will host a special Virtual Town Hall to discuss the latest information regarding TRIUMF’s new Career, Performance, Rewards program.

This meeting will take place on Wednesday, December 9th from 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM and can be joined using the regular credentials: (https://ca01web.zoom.us/j/66749857662?pwd=TlVNdXFSZ0ZaSzNhdHo1ZEJDL2grdz09; Meeting ID: 66749857662) or telephone (778-907-2071; enter 667-4985-7662, and press # twice). If prompted for a passcode, enter 159024.   

I look forward to seeing you all on Wednesday.

Sincerely,

Jonathan Bagger
Director

Site-wide email update, December 1 - Reminder - Virtual Town Hall tomorrow

Dear Colleagues,

This week’s Virtual Town Hall will take place tomorrow, Wednesday, December 2^nd from 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM.

I look forward to seeing you all tomorrow.

Sincerely,

Jonathan Bagger
Director

Site-wide email update, November 27 - COVID-19 Daily Health Check

Dear Colleagues,

WorkSafeBC has recently updated their workplace requirements and are requesting that employers perform a daily health check of employees prior to them entering their employer’s physical location. WorkSafeBC guidelines require that all employees answer NO to the following questions before they enter the workplace:

Have you travelled outside of Canada within the last 14 days?
Have you been identified by Public Health as a close contact of someone with COVID-19?
Have you been told to isolate by Public Health?
Are you displaying any of the following new or worsening symptoms:

Fever of chills
Cough
Loss of sense of smell or taste
Difficulty breathing
Sore throat
Loss of appetite
Extreme fatigue or tiredness
Headache
Body aches
Nausea or vomiting
Diarrhea

By using your access card to enter TRIUMF, you are now considered to be implicitly answering NO to all of the above questions. Should you answer YES to any of these questions, you must not enter the TRIUMF site and need to notify your supervisor as per current TRIUMF COVID guidelines. Before deciding to come to work, please ask yourself these questions to help ensure the safety and health of your co-workers. Signage will be posted at all entrances to TRIUMF as a reminder to those coming on site.

Please always remember to wear your facial covering, practice physical distancing, abide by posted occupancy limits, and wash your hands often both when on site and off. These measures are all part of TRIUMF’s defence in depth against COVID-19 to keep you and others safe.

Adrian Lee

Director of Facilities

Site-wide email update, November 17 - Reminder - Virtual Town Hall tomorrow and ACOT this week

Dear Colleagues,

Two quick reminders for the week:

1. This week’s Virtual Town Hall will take place tomorrow, Wednesday, November 18^th, from 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM.

The meeting will focus on TRIUMF’s continuing response to the COVID-19 pandemic, with a focus on the steps we all must take to ensure the health and safety of our community. The Town Hall will also feature a presentation from Conny Hoehr on the topic of using the ARIEL e-linac for FLASH radiotherapy research.

2. The fall 2020 meeting of the Advisory Committee on TRIUMF (ACOT) will be taking place virtually this week, from Thursday, November 19 to Saturday, November 21. The open plenary sessions will take place on Thursday from 2:00 – 3:15pm, and can be accessed via the ACOT agenda: https://documents.triumf.ca/docushare/dsweb/Get/Document-189844/Agenda_ACOT_Nov%202020_Final_.pdf

I look forward to seeing you all tomorrow.

Sincerely,

Jonathan Bagger
Director

Site-wide email update, November 8 - COVID-19 Update

Dear Colleagues,

Following Saturday’s news that Dr. Bonnie Henry has issued new public health orders for the Vancouver Coastal Health and Fraser Health regions – which include significant new restrictions on social gatherings and indoor group activities – I am writing to update everyone on TRIUMF’s operational plans.

Beginning Monday, November 9, TRIUMF is requesting that all staff who can work from home to do so for the next two weeks. At the present time, accelerator operations and beam delivery will continue as planned, and those who must be at the laboratory to carry out their duties will be permitted to work on site, provided all safety protocols, divisional work planning, and site occupancy limits are respected.

Of particular importance is everyone’s adherence to physical distancing measures, which means significantly limiting interactions in shared areas (lunch rooms, kitchens, restrooms, etc.), avoiding all in-person meetings, and ensuring all pre-job briefings are conducted outdoors and with all precautions in place. Now more than ever, we must exercise extra vigilance, both on and off site, as well as hold each other accountable for the health and safety of our community.

As I stressed on Friday’s sitewide message, if you do not feel well, do not come to work, and report your status to your supervisor. And as always, hand washing, physical distancing, and wearing a face covering are the safety measures recommended by the Provincial Health Officer. They remain the tenets of our own defense-in-depth strategy. Now, more than ever, it is essential to keep your distance, wear a mask, and wash your hands regularly.

As always, we will continue to keep the everyone informed as the situation evolves.

Thank you for your cooperation and stay safe.

Jonathan Bagger
Director

Site-wide email update, November 6 - TRIUMF’s recent COVID-19 case

Dear Colleagues,

This week, amidst our third confirmed positive case of COVID-19 here at TRIUMF, I’d like to once again stress the importance of adhering to the established safety protocols and guidelines that have served our community well these past nine months.

Hand washing, physical distancing, and wearing a face covering: these are the safety measures shared by the Provincial Health Officer and they remain the tenets of our own defense-in-depth strategy. We are in a critical time of year as we face both the rising number of COVID-19 cases in the province and the regular cold and flu season. Now, more than ever, it is essential to keep your distance, wear a mask, and wash your hands regularly.

I want to reinforce the need to hold ourselves and one another accountable when on site – encourage your colleagues to respect occupancy limits, wear a mask when sharing indoor space, commit to strictly virtual meetings, and work from home when possible. We must all work together to ensure that we have no transmission across our community, on site or off. And, as with our previous on-site case, please show kindness and compassion towards your colleagues who are recovering and self-isolating at this time.

When we shared the news of our first confirmed case back in August, I had mentioned that it likely would not be our last; the same is probably true of this week’s case. While we cannot guarantee that this will be the last case of COVID-19 at TRIUMF, we can commit to doing all that we can to reduce the impact of these cases and the risk of further exposures on site.

As the pandemic drags on and fatigue takes its toll, it becomes harder and harder to be strict with ourselves. In the province we’re seeing the effects of this, as people make exceptions to provincial recommendations and case numbers rise. This is not something we want to see happen at the lab.

I have said this many times throughout the course of this pandemic: our goal is to keep you safe while enabling science at TRIUMF. In these last months of 2020, I ask that we recommit to the practices that have kept us healthy, so that we may continue to deliver on our mission to serve as Canada’s particle accelerator centre.

Thank you, as always, for continuing to do your part.

Jonathan Bagger
Director

Site-wide email update, November 3 - Reminder – Virtual Town Hall Wednesday, Nov. 4 (2:30-3:30)

Dear Colleagues,

Just a reminder for this week’s Virtual Town Hall, which will take place tomorrow, Wednesday, November 4th, from 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM. 

The Town Hall will include a presentation by Monika Stachura on ARIEL applications in the life sciences. I also want to take time this week to reiterate our shared commitment to health and safety here at TRIUMF. You’ve no doubt seen the increase in cases in BC over the past few months. Luckily at TRIUMF there have been no new cases of COVID-19 within our community, and this is in part a result of both the care exercised by everyone coming to site, and the diligence in adhering to our established protocols.

As we have been saying since the beginning of the pandemic, our goal continues to be keeping our community safe while enabling science at TRIUMF. Hand washing, physical distancing, and wearing a face covering remain the tenets of our defense in depth strategy, and I ask that you continue these habits into the winter and beyond as we face not just COVID-19 but also the incoming cold and flu season.

Remember also to be kind to yourselves and your peers. Our Town Halls are an excellent opportunity to reconnect, but don’t be afraid to reach out more frequently – your health, both physical and mental, should always be a priority.

With all this in mind, I look forward to seeing you all tomorrow. You can join the meeting using the regular credentials: (https://ca01web.zoom.us/j/66749857662?pwd=TlVNdXFSZ0ZaSzNhdHo1ZEJDL2grdz09; Meeting ID: 66749857662) or telephone (778-907-2071; enter 667-4985-7662, and press # twice). If prompted for a passcode, enter 159024.   

Sincerely,  

Jonathan Bagger

Site-wide email update, October 20 - Reminder – Virtual Town Hall Tomorrow (2:30-3:30)

Dear Colleagues,

Just a reminder for this week’s Virtual Town Hall, which will take place tomorrow, Wednesday, October 21^st from 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM.

The Town Hall will include a reminder about work safety on site; a few words from our new Chief Engineer, Bill Richert; and an update on ARIEL, featuring presentations by Oliver Kester and Eric Guetre.

I look forward to seeing you all tomorrow.

Sincerely,

Jonathan Bagger
Director

Site-wide email update, October 6 - Reminder – Virtual Town Hall Tomorrow (2:30-3:30)

Dear Colleagues,

Just a reminder for this week’s Virtual Town Hall, which will take place on Wednesday, October 7^th from 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM.

This week’s discussion will be focused on ARIEL, with Reiner Kruecken speaking about the exciting science that’s to come.

Also, in anticipation of the lively discussion that always accompanies these events, I would like to remind everyone that Town Halls are intended to be a venue for respectful discussion and dialogue. I ask that in the spirit of transparent and open communication – and in line with our values of accountability and inclusion – we refrain from anonymous commentary in the chat.

You can join the meeting using the regular credentials: (https://ca01web.zoom.us/j/66749857662?pwd=TlVNdXFSZ0ZaSzNhdHo1ZEJDL2grdz09; Meeting ID: 66749857662) or telephone (778-907-2071; enter 667-498-57662, and press # twice). If prompted for a passcode, enter 159024.

I look forward to seeing you all tomorrow.

Sincerely,

Jonathan Bagger
Director

Site-wide email update, September 30 - Follow-up to last week's Town Hall

Dear Colleagues,

Thanks to everyone for attending another Virtual Town Hall meeting last week. The next meeting will take place next week on Wednesday, October 7 at the usual time (2:30 PM – 3:30 PM).

In the meantime, I wanted to share a few follow-ups from last week’s discussion:

TRIUMF Security and IP Principles – As I mentioned at the meeting, TRIUMF’s Board has put forward a series of principles that are guiding its approach to negotiations regarding the next Contribution Agreement. The principles capture TRIUMF’s general position regarding matters such as safety, security, and intellectual property. TRIUMF staff can view the principles on DocuShare.
COVID-19 Operational Update – The COVID-19 Resources webpage has been updated with TRIUMF’s current Operational Plan. Please review the statement at the top of the page, and raise any questions with the COVID-19 Task Force (covid19taskforce@triumf.ca)
COVID-19 Pulse Survey – At the last Town Hall, Ian Doyle provided a summary of the results from our recent COVID-19 Pulse Survey. His slides are available on DocuShare. I would like to thank everyone who participated. We will use insights from the survey to guide our continuing response to the pandemic.

Finally, a reminder that Friday is the deadline to volunteer for the Project RISE: Inclusive Innovation Workshop. This 3.5 hour virtual workshop is an opportunity to build leadership skills to create positive cultural change in our community. If you are interested in learning how to foster an inclusive environment in your team, consider registering at http://projectrise.ca/triumf/. Detailed information about the project can be found at the registration link.

I wish everyone a safe and productive week.

Sincerely,

Jonathan Bagger
Director

Site-wide email update, September 22 - Reminder – Virtual Town Hall Tomorrow (2:30-3:30)

Dear Colleagues,

Just a quick message to remind you that tomorrow’s Virtual Town Hall will take place at the regular time:2:30 PM – 3:30 PM

We’ll discuss the results of the Pulse Survey, an update on the Contribution Agreement, IAMI progress, and a review of return to site protocols. As always, I will leave time for questions at the end – I appreciated the many questions brought forward during our last Town Hall and I encourage you to continue to share your thoughts during these meetings.

You can join the meeting using the regular credentials: (https://ca01web.zoom.us/j/66749857662; Meeting ID: 66749857662) or telephone (778-907-2071, enter 667-498-57662, and press # twice). If prompted for a passcode, enter 159024.

I look forward to seeing you all tomorrow.

Sincerely,

Jonathan Bagger
Director

Site-wide email update, September 17 - Reminder - COVID-19 Return to Site Pulse Survey

Dear Colleagues --

As we begin to welcome more of our people back to the workplace, it is important that we understand your thoughts and surrounding safety and the COVID-19 pandemic. The more who complete the survey, the better the information we will have.

The survey will close on Friday September 18th at 5pm. You can access the confidential survey through the link below.

Survey link: https://ca.research.net/r/CVWPQ3G

Thank you for your help as we work through this together.

Sincerely,

Jonathan Bagger
Director

Site-wide email update, September 8 - Reminder – Virtual Town Hall Tomorrow (2:30-3:30)

Dear Colleagues,

Just a quick message to remind you that tomorrow’s Virtual Town Hall will take place at the regular time: 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM

We’ll use this Town Hall as an opportunity to touch base, and to answer your questions as we look ahead to fall. I encourage you to come with questions, or you can email covid19taskforce@triumf.ca in advance and a member of the Task Force will ask the question on your behalf.

You can join the meeting using the regular credentials: (https://ca01web.zoom.us/j/66749857662; Meeting ID: 66749857662) or telephone (778-907-2071, enter 667-498-57662, and press # twice).

I look forward to seeing you all tomorrow.

Sincerely,

Jonathan Bagger
Director

Site-wide email update, September 1 - No Town Hall this week: Virtual Town Halls moving to bi-weekly schedule

Dear colleagues,

Please be advised that we will be moving to a bi-weekly schedule for our Virtual Town Halls. There will be no Town Hall this week - we will see you on September 9th at 2:30pm.

In the meantime, please contact the COVID-19 Task Force (covid19taskforce@triumf.ca) if you have any questions or concerns, or refer to our COVID-19 Resources Page.

Thank you.

Site-wide email update, August 25 - Reminder – Virtual Town Hall Tomorrow (2:30-3:30)

Dear Colleagues,

Just a quick message to remind you that tomorrow’s Virtual Town Hall will take place at the regular time: 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM

We will discuss, among other things, an update from HR regarding the new performance system (P3).

You can join the meeting using the regular credentials: (https://ca01web.zoom.us/j/66749857662; Meeting ID: 66749857662) or telephone (778-907-2071, enter 667-498-57662, and press # twice).

I look forward to seeing you all tomorrow.

Sincerely,

Jonathan Bagger
Director

Site-wide email update, August 6 - Taking care of each other in the time of COVID-19

Dear Colleagues,

As you know, we now have our first confirmed case of COVID-19 here at TRIUMF. While we are fortunate that this has been our only case to date, it likely won’t be our last. Therefore, I’d like to take this opportunity to reiterate the protocols and guidelines that we have implemented for the health and safety of our community.

First, for the health and safety of our Operators, access to the Driver Control Room is restricted to authorized personnel only. For all relevant requests, call 7333. There is a phone conveniently located outside the Control Room, so please resist the urge to walk in – if even for a moment. Those authorized to enter must be wearing proper PPE (N95 or a half mask respirator) in order to access the area.

Additionally, if anyone accessed the Driver Control Room over the long weekend (Saturday August 1- Monday, August 3), please contact Violeta Toma immediately. While we have done our best to ensure proper contact tracing, we want to be sure that we have identified all individuals who may have been affected.

Second, we need to remember and practice the trio of safety measures that comprise our defense in depth strategy: hand washing, physical distancing, and face coverings. Active use of these three elements will reduce the risk of infection in our community – these are habits that will keep you and the people around you safe.

Please maintain a 2-metre distance from your peers, wear a mask when indoors in shared spaces, and wash your hands regularly. Hand sanitizer, soap, disinfectant, and disposable masks are available; please use them throughout your day. If you haven’t already, review our Mask/Face Covering Practice Guidelines.

As Dr. Bonnie Henry has been saying since the beginning of this pandemic, “Be kind, be calm, be safe.” This statement has a home within our TRIUMF Values: “We respect each other, take care of each other, and support the success of all.” I ask that we continue to care for one another as we face the reality of COVID-19 at TRIUMF. I ask that you hold yourselves and each other accountable by following the appropriate protocols and guidelines designed to keep us safe. Finally, I ask that you show kindness and compassion to your colleagues who are self-isolating for their health and yours.

It has been nearly six months since the pandemic was declared, and fatigue and frustration are understandable; however, this confirmed case demonstrates both the importance of recommitting to the tried-and-true measures that have kept us safe thus far, and the value of our community who cares for the health and well-being of all its members.

Thank you for continuing to do your part.

Jonathan Bagger
Director

Site-wide email update, August 6 - Reminder: Complete Return to Site Orientation

Dear Colleagues,

A reminder that you must complete the Return to Site Orientation by EOB Friday. This orientation is required of all TRIUMF staff and visitors, and if you do not complete it by Friday, your access card will be deactivated.

You can access the Return to Site Orientation via learning.triumf.ca under “My Courses”.

Thank you,

Jonathan Bagger
Director

Site-wide email update, August 5 - COVID-19 Case at TRIUMF

On August 5, 2020, a TRIUMF employee, working on site, tested positive for COVID-19.

TRIUMF has contacted all employees and visitors who may have come in contact with the individual and advised them to self-isolate.

At this time, there is no additional risk of exposure to staff and visitors, and the areas where the individual was working have been cleaned and sanitized.

Vancouver Coastal Health Authority has been notified; TRIUMF will take further guidance from them as required. TRIUMF staff and visitors can continue to monitor TRIUMF’s Incident Tracker for updates. Any questions or concerns can be addressed to covid19taskforce@triumf.ca.

Jonathan Bagger
Director

Site-wide email update, August 5 - Virtual Town Hall - Postponed to August 12, 2020

Dear Colleagues,

I hope you all enjoyed a restful long weekend. Given the short week, and with so many of us away on vacation, our weekly Virtual Town Hall will be postponed until next Wednesday, August 12.

For any questions you may have planned to ask today, contact covid19taskforce@triumf.ca.

I look forward to seeing all of you next week.

Jonathan Bagger
Director

Site-wide email update, July 31 - Masks and Facial Coverings at TRIUMF

Dear Colleagues,

At this week’s Town Hall, we announced the next steps for TRIUMF as we continue to ramp up operations. We are now entering the early stages of Phase 3 of the TRIUMF Plan, with some exceptions. Phase 3 will see an increased number of staff onsite, which means that we will be implementing new policy to ensure the health and safety of all our people.

First, a reminder that everyone needs to complete the Return to Site Orientation by end of next week in order to access the site. If you have not completed this orientation by then, your access card will be disabled. The Return to Site Orientation can be accessed via “My Courses” on the TRIUMF Learning Management System.

Second, we are introducing new policy regarding masks/face coverings at TRIUMF. Increasing evidence from infectious disease experts shows that masks or face coverings help to minimize the risk of COVID-19 transmission; therefore, effective August 4^th, masks or face coverings will be mandatory in shared indoor spaces for all staff, visitors, contractors, and other personnel. This new policy serves to complement our existing health and safety protocols, such as physical distancing and hand hygiene.

Masks will be required:

In common areas, shared spaces, and anywhere individuals can congregate
In shared offices, even if occupants can maintain a 2-metre distance
Other examples include: hallways, corridors, multi-stall washrooms, photocopier areas, offices/labs with multiple workstations/cubicles

Masks will not be required:

Outdoors, while maintaining 2 metres distance

Masks will be required outside if unable to observe appropriate physical distance

In individual offices
In the lunch room, with exceptions

Appropriate hygiene and physical distancing must be observed, and lunch breaks should be scheduled to avoid overcrowding
Masks may be removed for short periods of time at one’s desk in order to eat/drink. Please resume wearing your mask once you have finished, and observe proper distance and hygiene during your break

I urge you to read the full Mask or Face Covering Practice Guidelines document and familiarize yourself with these protocols. If you have any questions, please reach out to the COVID-19 Task Force at covid19taskforce@triumf.ca.

Finally, I want to remind you of a key part of our TRIUMF Values: we respect each other, take care of each other, and support the success of all. The health and safety of our community to date is a product of the care and consideration each of you demonstrate when you wear a mask, maintain safe distance, and keep your hands and workstation clean. Thank you for doing your part, and I hope you will continue to do so as we take this next step forward.

Jonathan Bagger
Director

Site-wide email update, July 31 - Emancipation Day in Canada

Dear Colleagues,

Amidst continued conversations about equity, diversity, and inclusion at TRIUMF, and in society more generally, I wanted to take time before the long weekend to acknowledge an important moment in Canadian history. Saturday, August 1^st marks 187 years since the Slavery Abolition Act 1833, which abolished slavery throughout the British Empire and came into effect the following year in Canada.

As Canadians, we are not immune to the history of slavery. While August first is not officially recognized as Emancipation Day outside of Ontario, this Saturday is an opportunity for all of us to listen, read, and reflect – the resources generated from our Community Forum last month are an excellent starting point.

To those resources I would like to add the last communication from US Congressman John Lewis, who died earlier this month, and who fought against racial injustice for most of his 80 years. Congressman Lewis was a passionate advocate for and practitioner of peaceful protest, especially in support of Black lives. I would also like to draw your attention to President Obama’s powerful eulogy for him, delivered yesterday at the Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta, hallowed ground for the US civil rights movement.

In our local Vancouver community, a peaceful protest will be taking place at the Olympic Cauldron on August 1^st to mark Canada’s Emancipation Day. It is being hosted by Black Vancouver to both celebrate Black culture and call for systemic change in our society.

If you are planning to attend on Saturday, remember to take proper measures to ensure your health and safety: wear a mask, maintain physical distance when possible, and keep your hands clean. Changes in your health status should be immediately reported to your supervisor, as per our current protocols. Please be sure to consult with your supervisor if Saturday is a workday for you.

I also want to remind you that marching is not the only way to show your support. If you feel uncomfortable about participating due to COVID-19 concerns, consider donating to a local organization such as Hogan’s Alley Society, whose work sheds light on Black history in our city and throughout our province.

In any case, enjoy the long weekend!

Jonathan Bagger,
Director

Site-wide email update, July 29 - TOWN HALL DELAY - 2:50 PM start

Hello,

Please be advised that due to technical difficulties, the Town Hall will be pushed back to a 2:50pm start.

Thank you for your patience.

Site-wide email update, July 28 - Reminder – Virtual Town Hall Tomorrow (2:30-3:30)

Dear Colleagues,

Just a quick message to remind you that tomorrow’s Virtual Town Hall will take place at the regular time: 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM.

We will discuss our return to site, our new Enterprise Resource Planning solution, and TRIUMF’s contribution to the MVM ventilator project.

You can join the meeting using the regular credentials: (https://ca01web.zoom.us/j/66749857662; Meeting ID: 66749857662) or telephone (778-907-2071, enter 667-498-57662, and press # twice).

I look forward to seeing you all tomorrow.

Sincerely,

Jonathan Bagger
Director

Site-wide email update, July 21 - Reminder – Virtual Town Hall Tomorrow (2:30-3:30)

Dear Colleagues,

Just a quick message to remind you that tomorrow’s Virtual Town Hall will take place at the regular time: 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM.

We will discuss, among other things, the $25M infrastructure initiative that was funded as part of our Five-Year Plan.

You can join the meeting using the regular credentials: (https://ca01web.zoom.us/j/66749857662; Meeting ID: 66749857662) or telephone (778-907-2071, enter 667-498-57662, and press # twice).

I look forward to seeing you all tomorrow.

Sincerely,

Jonathan Bagger

Director

Site-wide email update, July 14 - Reminder – Virtual Town Hall Tomorrow (2:30-3:30)

Dear Colleagues,

Just a quick message to remind you that tomorrow’s Virtual Town Hall will take place at the regular time: 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM.

We will discuss engineering at TRIUMF, our return to site, and receive an update from IS&T on the new telephone system.

You can join the meeting using the regular credentials: (https://ca01web.zoom.us/j/66749857662; Meeting ID: 66749857662) or telephone (778-907-2071, enter 667-498-57662, and press # twice).

I look forward to seeing you all tomorrow.

Sincerely,

Jonathan Bagger

Director

Site-wide email update, July 7 - Virtual Town Hall Tomorrow

Dear Colleagues,

Just a quick message to remind you that tomorrow’s Virtual Town Hall will take place at a new time: 3:30 PM – 4:30 PM.

You can join the meeting using the regular credentials: (https://ca01web.zoom.us/j/66749857662; Meeting ID: 66749857662) or telephone (778-907-2071, enter 667-498-57662, and press # twice).

I look forward to seeing you all tomorrow.

Sincerely,

Jonathan Bagger

Director

Site-wide email update, July 3 - Next Virtual Town Hall (New Time)

Dear Colleagues,

Just a quick message to inform you that next week’s Virtual Town Hall will take place on Wednesday, July 8 from 3:30 PM – 4:30 PM. Please take note of this revised start time in your calendars.

You can join the meeting using the regular credentials: (https://ca01web.zoom.us/j/66749857662; Meeting ID: 66749857662) or telephone (778-907-2071, enter 667-498-57662, and press # twice).

I look forward to seeing you all next week.

Sincerely,

Jonathan Bagger

Director

Site-wide email update, June 30 - Happy Canada Day!

Dear Colleagues,

On the eve of Canada’s 153^rd Birthday, I would like to wish everyone a safe and restful Canada Day.

As we enter July, BC continues to ease restrictions and restart the economy in a safe and orderly manner. TRIUMF is following the Province’s lead. We are continuing to ramp up activity at the laboratory, while still maintaining physical distancing across the site. With strong compliance and good progress to date, we are transitioning towards Phase 3 of the TRIUMF Operating Plan. This next phase will see the number of people on the campus increase, but not exceed the thresholds being set by the authorities. Specific decisions on who should return to site will continue to be determined at the divisional level in light of operational requirements.

As we move forward, our focus remains on ensuring the health and safety of our community – and I thank everyone for doing their part!

Happy Canada Day!

Sincerely,

Jonathan Bagger

Director

Site-wide email update, June 23 - Town Hall Reminder

Dear Colleagues,

I invite everyone to join me tomorrow (Wednesday, June 24) for another Virtual Town Hall from 2:30 PM to 3:30 PM. This week’s meeting will focus on our Return to Site activities.

You can join the meeting by either computer (https://ca01web.zoom.us/j/66749857662; Meeting ID: 66749857662) or telephone (778-907-2071, enter 667-498-57662, and press # twice).

I look forward to seeing you tomorrow.

Sincerely,

Jonathan Bagger

Director

Site-wide email update, June 16 - Update and Town Hall Reminder

Dear Colleagues,

I would like to thank everyone for doing their part to ensure a safe return to site; compliance with site access rules has been strong and I thank everyone for following our protocols.

To this end, I would like to remind you that you should not come to TRIUMF if you are ill, and that all workers, whether on site or remote, must report any change in their health to their supervisor. Collecting this information plays an important role in safeguarding the health of our community.

Finally, I invite everyone to join me tomorrow (Wednesday, June 17) for another Virtual Town Hall from 2:30 PM to 3:30 PM.

You can join the meeting by either computer (https://ca01web.zoom.us/j/66749857662; Meeting ID: 66749857662) or telephone (778-907-2071, enter 667-498-57662, and press # twice).

I look forward to seeing you tomorrow.

Sincerely,

Jonathan Bagger

Director

Site-wide email update, June 12 - Discontinuing use of the Occupancy Tracking Form

Dear Colleagues,

Effective today, June 12, 2020, TRIUMF is discontinuing use of the Occupancy Tracking Form.

After a review of the data being captured and monitored as part of the Return to Site activities, it has been determined that the combination of divisional planning, access card site entry data and a high rate of compliance has proven sufficient to keep the occupancy rates at or below the target levels.

Moving forward, we ask that everyone continue to follow the guidance of their supervisors and not access the site unless cleared by their division. Should there be further changes to site access protocol, they will be communicated to the community.

We thank everyone for their continued patience and cooperation as we navigate the Return to Site and the Research Ramp-Up together.

Sincerely,

Anne Louise Aboud

Deputy Director, Operations

Reiner Kruecken

Deputy Director, Research

Site-wide email update, June 8 - Special Town Hall

Dear Colleagues,

Thank you to the many members of the TRUMF community who followed up with me after last week’s Town Hall. From the comments I received, it is clear that many of us are deeply touched by the death of George Floyd and by the global outpouring of people demanding justice.

In recognition of the events taking place across Canada on Wednesday, we will devote most of this week’s Town Hall to the topic of racism and discrimination. I invite you to join me, Ania Kwiatkowski, members of the TRIUMF Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Committee, and colleagues from across TRIUMF to a community forum where we can talk openly and honestly about this important issue. More information on this session was just released via a TRIUMF Community Announcement.

Date: 2:30 PM, Wednesday, June 10, 2020

Join by computer: https://ca01web.zoom.us/j/66749857662; Meeting ID: 66749857662

Join by telephone: 778-907-2071, enter 667-498-57662, and press # twice

Should any TRIUMF employee choose to demonstrate their support in any of the events taking place in the coming days, please contact your supervisor and request leave, preferably using a vacation day.

I look forward to seeing you on Wednesday

Sincerely,

Jonathan Bagger

Director

Site-wide email update, June 5 - Return to Site Update & Occupancy Tracking Form

Dear Colleagues,

Thank you for making the first week of the “return to site” a success. By and large, the transition has gone smoothly for most groups, and I appreciate everyone’s patience as we work to iron out some of the bumps along the way.

One area for improvement is the consistent and accurate completion of the Occupancy Tracking Form.

As you all know, TRIUMF is requiring all staff and visitors to fill out this form each day they are on site. This exercise is distinct from the division-level planning work underway. The purpose of the Form is to assist us in monitoring staff density across the lab so we can ensure that adequate distancing is in place. This data will also help OHS and health authorities with contract tracing in the event that someone on site becomes ill with COVID-19.

We are asking everyone to complete the Form shortly before or after arriving on site. It can be done quickly and easily using either a computer or smart phone using the QR code below.

Moving forward, we hope to make this process even simpler, so please continue to provide feedback. In the meantime, thank you for helping us keep TRIUMF healthy.

Have a safe and enjoyable weekend!

Sincerely,

Jonathan Bagger

Director

Site-wide email update, June 2 - Important Updates

Dear Colleagues,

With the TRIUMF’s Return to Site now officially underway, I would like to provide a few more important updates as the process continues to unfold. Please see each of the bullets below for key updates:

Operational Plan: As you know, TRIUMF is gradually allowing non-essential activities and projects to take place on site. As noted in my last message, this process will be phased in over time. Today, I am pleased to share more details regarding how the ramp up will take place.

Accessible via the Operational Plan is a chart that describes the three projected phases of ramp up that are expected to occur over the next several months. The plan will change as the situation evolves.

Site Access: As noted in Friday’s message, on-site access is currently limited to essential staff and those with authorization from their divisions. For now, only those with approval should be working on site; all others should continue to work from home until receiving specific direction to return.

It is expected that everyone accessing the TRIUMF site follow the various protocols and procedures that have been implemented and communicated over the course the pandemic. Everyone must abide by the signage posted across the site. Additional information can also be found on the TRIUMF COVID-19 web page, as well as in the recently implemented “Return to Site Orientation” (via “My Courses” on the TRIUMF Learning Management System (https://learning.triumf.ca)).

IMPORTANT NEW REQUIREMENT: With the move to increased activity on site, TRIUMF is implementing a new online Occupancy Tracking Form to help manage the increased number of people. To that end, we are requiring all staff to complete the web form each day they are at the laboratory. This form should be completed before arriving at work. This process will help us better manage occupancy limits across our various buildings. It will also assist with contact tracing should someone test positive for COVID-19.

Visitors: All authorized visitors and contractors must have the Occupancy Tracking Form completed by their TRIUMF contact prior to accessing the site. In addition, all external parties must complete the TRIUMF COVID-19 Screening Questionnaire. Please note that this document was revised on May 31, now requiring personal contact details. Please be sure to use the latest version going forward.

Town Hall: Please join me tomorrow (Wednesday, June 3) for the next Virtual Town Hall from 2:30 PM to 3:30 PM. At this meeting, I invite questions and discussion about TRIUMF’s Return to Site and Research Ramp-Up planning efforts.

You can join the meeting by either computer (https://ca01web.zoom.us/j/66749857662; Meeting ID: 66749857662) or telephone (778-907-2071, enter 667-498-57662, and press # twice).

I look forward to speaking to everyone tomorrow.

Sincerely,

Jonathan Bagger

Director

Site-wide email update, May 28 - Update on TRIUMF Operations: Return to Site Plan

Dear Colleagues,

In accordance with guidance from health authorities, TRIUMF will – effective June 1, 2020 – begin a gradual ramp-up of activity on site. This process will begin slowly, with activity increasing in phases as the COVID-19 situation evolves. As has been TRIUMF’s approach since the beginning of the pandemic, the focus remains on ensuring the health and safety of our people. It is everyone’s responsibility to follow site guidelines to help keep us all safe; it is critical that we live the TRIUMF values of Safety and Accountability as we navigate the path ahead.

The first phase of our “Return to Site” will see the numbers of people on the TRIUMF campus remain low, with the specific staffing decisions being driven by operational priorities and a controlled ramp-up of on-site research activities. Only essential staff and those approved by their Divisions will resume on-site work; everyone else will continue to work from home until receiving specific direction to return. The total number of staff onsite will be based on operational needs and guidance from government and health authorities.

To ensure the health and safety of all, everyone returning to site must abide by the directions provided by their supervisors, as physical distancing may require access limitations for particular areas. If you have any questions about your individual circumstances with respect to Return to Site, please contact your ALD.

Other important considerations as TRIUMF enters into this next phase of operations include:

Health Monitoring: Should you experiencing any COVID-like symptoms e.g. fever, shortness of breath, or coughing, please advise your supervisor and stay home. DO NOT COME TO TRIUMF. Please continue to follow the guidance outlined in the TRIUMF COVID-19 Response Plan.

Training: Everyone accessing the TRIUMF site will be required to complete a new orientation to familiarize themselves with new practices and protocols implemented during the pandemic. The course can be accessed via “My Courses” on the TRIUMF Learning Management System (https://learning.triumf.ca) and must be completed by June 8 OR the date you are expected to come on site, whichever is later.

Hygiene: We ask all employees to remain vigilant with regards to hygiene. Hand sanitizing stations have been installed at all main site entry points, i.e. MOB, Badge Room and Stores, and we are mandating all employees to clean their hands prior to entering the site. Furthermore, hand sanitizer and disinfectant spray bottles have been distributed across our site. We ask all employees occupying shared workstations to clean their spaces before and after use. Please contact Terry Sanghera at x6231 for additional supplies. We are also encouraging everyone to wear a facial covering while moving through common or shared spaces at TRIUMF to protect your colleagues.

Signage: New signage has been posted across the site covering a range of topics, including room occupancy limits, physical distancing reminders, and instructions for handwashing and the disinfection of workspaces. Please pay particular attention to physical distancing in confined space (such as the Badge Room) and observe and comply with all posted instructions. If you have any questions, please contact Adrian Lee, Director of Facilities, at x7640.

Meeting Rooms & Public Areas: All meetings should continue to be conducted via telephone or videoconference. At this time, all TRIUMF meeting rooms are closed. We will revisit this decision once we are able to assess the impact of more staff on site. Similarly, the TRIUMF cafeteria will remain closed, with the occupancy of the space limited; other lunchrooms and other public and semi-public spaces will also have significantly reduced capacity. For the safety of all on site, please respect the posted occupancy limits in all spaces.

Communication: Given the dynamic nature of the pandemic, it is important for everyone to remain up to date with the latest site-wide communications. Please continue to review the sitewide messages, attend the weekly Virtual Town Hall meetings, and regularly check the TRIUMF COVID-19 webpage (https://www.triumf.ca/COVID-19%20RESOURCES) for important updates.

Sincerely,

Jonathan Bagger

Director

Site-wide email update, May 26 - Reminder: Town Hall Tomorrow

Dear Colleagues,

Please join me tomorrow (Wednesday, May 27) for another Virtual All-Hands from 2:30 PM to 3:30 PM. At this meeting, I will discuss plans for our return to site.

You can join the meeting by either computer (https://ca01web.zoom.us/j/66749857662; Meeting ID: 66749857662) or telephone (778-907-2071, enter 667-498-57662, and press # twice).

I look forward to seeing everyone tomorrow.

Sincerely,

Jonathan Bagger

Director

Site-wide email update, May 19 - Reminder: Town Hall Tomorrow

Dear Colleagues,

I hope everyone had an enjoyable and safe long weekend.

A quick reminder about tomorrow’s (Wednesday, May 20) for another Virtual All-Hands from 2:30 PM to 3:30 PM. During my report, Anne Louise Aboud will speak about the work of the Return to Site committee that she chairs.

As per usual, you can join the meeting by either computer (https://ca01web.zoom.us/j/66749857662; Meeting ID: 66749857662) or telephone (778-907-2071, enter 667-498-57662, and press # twice).

I look forward to seeing you tomorrow.

Sincerely,

Jonathan Bagger

Director

Site-wide email update, May 15 - Updates and Best Wishes for the Weekend

Dear Colleagues,

As we head into a long weekend, I would like to touch base and provide a few updates:

Victoria Day (May 18): The laboratory will be closed for the Victoria Day on Monday, May 18. I hope that everyone finds a way to relax, connect with family and community, and reflect on all that we have accomplished since this crisis began. Please don't forget about public health guidelines, though. I'd like us all to be safe and healthy a week from now!

New Hours for Stores: Stores has updated their hours, effective this week. The new hours are Monday-Friday, 7:00AM-1:00PM, with reduced staff levels on Tuesday and Thursday. For more information or inquiries, please visit the Logistics website.

Security: UBC has reported an increase in petty crime on campus, so we ask all staff to remain vigilant. Please note:

The TRIUMF Safe Walk program is available from 10:30pm until 6:00am.
Valuables and electronics are tempting targets, so occupants of ground-floor offices should not leave anything of value in view of exterior windows. Please close blinds and lock windows when you leave for the day. If you notice anything amiss, please notify jimh@triumf.ca.
If you witness an unfamiliar person inquiring about TRIUMF staff or the facility, please notify the Driver Control Room (7333). Report any strange activity; sometimes noticing small details can go a long way towards preventing theft.

Parking: Monthly parking pass fees will be reimbursed for the months of April and May, with reimbursements expected in June. Also, UBC has reinstated campus parking fees, effective May 4. The daily parking fee at TRIUMF remains $6/day.

BCCDC Survey: Finally, to help guide the next phase of our province’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the BC Centre for Disease Control (BCCDC) has released a COVID-19 Survey. The survey assesses the public’s experiences, and also allows individuals to identify their interest in participating in serology testing, as well as other programs to help prepare for future waves of the illness. I encourage you to support our public health colleagues by responding to and sharing this survey as you see fit.

Thank you all for continuing to do your part, and I wish everyone a great weekend!

Sincerely,

Jonathan Bagger

Director

Site-wide email update, May 11 - Reminder: Town Hall

Dear Colleagues,

I invite everyone to join me for tomorrow’s (Wednesday, May 13) for another Virtual All-Hands from 2:30 PM to 3:30 PM. This week’s meeting will provide some updates on TRIUMF’s early planning for return to site this spring and summer.

As per usual, you can join the meeting by either computer (https://ca01web.zoom.us/j/66749857662; Meeting ID: 66749857662) or telephone (778-907-2071, enter 667-498-57662, and press # twice).

I look forward to seeing you tomorrow.

Sincerely,

Jonathan Bagger

Director

Site-wide email update, May 5 - Reminder: Town Hall

Dear Colleagues,

I invite everyone to join me for tomorrow’s (Wednesday, May 6) for another Virtual All-Hands from 2:30 PM to 3:30 PM. This week’s meeting will provide a debrief on some of the result from the recent COVID-19 check-in survey, as well as an update on this year’s PPR process.

As per usual, you can join the meeting by either computer (https://ca01web.zoom.us/j/66749857662; Meeting ID: 66749857662) or telephone (778-907-2071, enter 667-498-57662, and press # twice).

Finally, I would like acknowledge an important milestone for the MVM ventilator project. The U.S Food and Drug Administration has just granted an Emergency Use Authorization for production in the United States. Congratulations the TRIUMF team that has been hard at work on this project for many weeks, and I encourage everyone to read the international and Canadian statements on this important achievement.

I look forward to seeing you all tomorrow.

Sincerely,

Jonathan Bagger

Director

Site-wide email update, May 1 - Essential Infrastructure Projects

Dear Colleagues,

Now that we are coming out of shutdown and resuming main cyclotron operations for isotope production, we are in position to consider other essential activities in support of our mission. This is not a resumption of regular operations, but rather an opportunity to advance a limited number of high-priority projects and tasks related to the maintenance, repair, and construction of our essential infrastructure.

At this point we do not know when regular operations will resume. Our on-site research activities are still curtailed, as they are at UBC. We appreciate that the situation continues to cause hardship, but we must follow public health guidelines for the greater good of all. Nevertheless, we are starting to discuss how best to ramp up research activities once they are permitted again. In any case, improving our essential infrastructure will allow us to hit the ground running when normal operations begin.

All essential infrastructure projects and tasks must be approved by an ALD, a Deputy Director, and the Director. They must meet strict criteria in that the projects must be high priority, can be carried out while maintaining appropriate distance, and involve only a few people so that the overall site density remains low. Occupational Health and Safety stands ready to assist in ensuring that proper precautions are followed.

Proponents can request permission to proceed by submitting an Essential Infrastructure Exemption Sheet (https://www.triumf.ca/sites/default/files/Essential%20Infrastructure%20Exemption_fillable.pdf), to the Directorate through their ALDs. As items are completed, more can begin, so long as they are approved and keep the overall site density within limits.

In support of these activities, and in light of the growing ARIEL backlog, the Machine Shop will resume at 50% operations, assuming face coverings are used and appropriate distancing can be maintained.

All work on site must meet the guidelines of the provincial health authorities, whose guidance is subject to change on short notice.

Sincerely,

Jonathan A. Bagger

Director

Site-wide email update, April 30 - Face Coverings

Dear Colleagues,

Effective Monday, May 4, in light of evolving federal and provincial guidelines, I am requesting that staff, contractors, and other essential personnel wear a face covering while on campus. The covering can be a paper or cloth mask or even a bandana.

Note that this face covering is not personal protective equipment (PPE). Rather, it will serve – along with hand washing, sanitization, and physical distancing – as an additional layer of protection in our community's defense-in-depth against the coronavirus. The face covering will help protect others at the lab in case you are infected, whether or not you show symptoms.

You do not need to wear the covering in a personal space, like an individual office. However, I ask that you wear it everywhere else indoors, including shared offices and workplaces, as well as other public spaces across the lab. If we each do this small act, we can help everyone stay safe.

PPE is reserved for applications that require such equipment, as well as for situations in which physical distancing is difficult or impossible to maintain. Please contact Occupational Health and Safety for any questions relating to PPE. Further information on the proper use of face coverings will be available on the TRIUMF COVID-19 site soon.

Provincial and federal guidelines will continue to change according to the external situation. At this point, use of a face covering is voluntary. However, I hope that you will join me in showing this respect to our colleagues during this difficult time.

Sincerely,

Jonathan A. Bagger

Director

Site-wide email update, April 27 - Important Reminders

Dear Colleagues,

Just a reminder that this week’s Virtual All-Hands will be held on Thursday, April 30 from 3:30 PM to 4:30 PM. This week’s meeting will begin with discussion about re-opening the laboratory, and what might be expected in the weeks to come. In addition, I also hope to welcome another set of guest speakers to the meeting, this time to provide an update on the MVM ventilator project.

You can join the meeting by either computer (https://ca01web.zoom.us/j/66749857662; Meeting ID: 66749857662) or telephone (778-907-2071, enter 667-498-57662, and press # twice).

I would also like to remind you that the COVID-19 Check-in Survey (https://ca.research.net/r/9BBFRNJ) closes on Friday. This survey is open to the entire community, and if you haven’t yet participated, I ask that you take a few minutes to do so.

I look forward to seeing you all on Thursday.

Sincerely,

Jonathan Bagger
Director

Site-wide email update, April 25 - Important Updates

Dear Colleagues,

With another week coming to a close, I'd like to touch base and provide a few updates.

First, thank you for continuing to make the weekly Virtual Town Halls such a success. Week after week, we’ve had turnouts of approximately 250 people, and the regular opportunity to connect with our community is a bright spot for many across the lab. As I mentioned last week, the next Town Hall will take place at a different day and time: Thursday, April 30 from 3:30 PM to 4:30 PM. Please join the meeting by either computer (https://ca01web.zoom.us/j/66749857662; Meeting ID: 66749857662) or telephone (778-907-2071, enter 667-498-57662, and press # twice).

Second, please fill out the COVID-19 Check-in Survey (https://ca.research.net/r/9BBFRNJ) that was circulated yesterday and will remain up until Friday, May 1^st. Already, the rate of response has been impressive, but we’re looking to gather as much feedback as possible to determine how to best support our community during these challenging times.

Third, I'd like to say thank you once more to everyone at TRIUMF during this time. We are all doing our best to manage the situation we find ourselves in, and your efforts to keep TRIUMF running are noticed and appreciated.

As we move into the weekend, I encourage you to pay that gratitude forward and let someone in your life know that you are thankful for their contributions. It doesn't take much to make a difference - you can use the existing TRIUMF thank-you template (https://www.triumf.ca/sites/default/files/Thank%20you-banner-Social-02.png), or you can send a simple email or make a quick phone call.

Finally, for those who are missing being on site, I’m excited to say you can visit TRIUMF from the comfort of home! As part of an effort to move towards digital outreach, Communications has created a playlist of 360 videos that I encourage you – and your friends and family – to check out on a mobile phone, tablet, or computer via this link: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLnbu4bFjCof2-wVD44KvThzvzZLVTOijO

Enjoy exploring – and watch for future content on the lab’s various social media channels. Don't forget to post a picture of your pet on the Teams site.

Have a great weekend!

Sincerely,

Jonathan Bagger
Director

Site-wide email update, April 21 - Important Reminders

Dear Colleagues,

I hope everyone has had a good start to the week.

I’d like to remind everyone about the next Virtual Town Hall, which will take place tomorrow, Wednesday, April 22, from 2:30-3:30 PM.

This meeting will take a bit of a different direction, as I would like to use some of the time to have others around the lab report on some recent developments.

To be a part of the discussion, please join the meeting by either computer (https://ca01web.zoom.us/j/66749857662; Meeting ID: 66749857662) or telephone (778-907-2071, enter 667-498-57662, and press # twice).

Furthermore, as a follow up to some of my recent messages around the importance of communication, I’d like to reiterate the expectation that all staff communicate changes in their health status with their supervisors.

As noted on the COVID-19 Human Resources Protocol webpage (https://www.triumf.ca/node/36017/#ill) and stated in the accompanying guidelines (Document-180896), it is important that TRIUMF maintain a clear view of the health of our community. If you think you may need to self-isolate, begin to show symptoms of illness, or experience any other change in your health as a result of the pandemic, you must communicate this with your supervisor and ensure the information is passed along to HR via the confidential yourhealth@triumf.ca email box.

I appreciate your cooperation on this and all other efforts to keep us all healthy.

See you all tomorrow!

Sincerely,

Jonathan Bagger
Director

Site-wide email update, April 17 - Important Updates

Dear Colleagues,

As we close the page on a shortened week, I wanted to touch base with you and provide a quick update as we enter the weekend.

As many of you have likely heard, BC is continuing to see a flattening of the curve, and while there are reports that restrictions may begin to ease over the next month, the process is expected to be slow and deliberate. I know that with the positive news and good weather it is tempting to let down our guard; however, it is more important than ever – with the effects of physical distancing showing promise – that everyone follow the guidance and direction of public health officials. Remember, it is not only you that you are keeping safe, but your friends, family, and colleagues as well.

I am so proud of the TRIUMF community for its continued commitment to combat the pandemic. From those working on site to those working remotely, we are all doing our part to keep our lab going and our community healthy. Take a moment to thank someone for their efforts – either for TRIUMF or for the broader community – whether it be checking groceries, delivering a package, or driving a bus. You’ll feel better, and so will they.

Along the same lines, I would also like to remind you of the importance of caring for your mental wellbeing. I encourage you to reach out to one another – colleagues, supervisors, and employees – faculty, postdocs, and students – to make sure that everyone is OK and has the support they need. It has been heartening to see all the offers of help, links to resources, and even funny videos being posted on the 'Positive' channel of TRIUMF's Community Discussion Board, and it only reaffirms my belief that we’ll emerge from this challenge stronger and more united than we entered it.

And now on to a few quick updates:

Town Hall: As already announced, the next Virtual Town Hall will take place on Wednesday, April 22 from 2:30-3:30 PM; it can be accessed via computer (https://ca01web.zoom.us/j/66749857662; Meeting ID: 66749857662) or telephone (778-907-2071, enter 667-498-57662, and press # twice).

TRIUMF contributions to fighting the pandemic: I encourage you to keep track of the important work being done by TRIUMF to fight the pandemic, summarized on our web site: https://www.triumf.ca/current-events/triumf-community-rallies-response-covid-19-pandemic. Please share this page with your friends and neighbours, and check back regularly as it will continue to be updated as projects unfold and new contributions are made.

Black holes: If you are looking to take a break from Netflix tomorrow evening, I suggest you check out a free public lecture by Dr. Sheperd Doeleman, entitled “Seeing the Unseeable: Capturing an Image of a Black Hole,” hosted by the American Physical Society. Accessible through the link below, the talk will cover results from the Event Horizon Telescope, a major international collaboration that includes significant Canadian involvement.

As we enter what promises to be another beautiful weekend, please continue to heed the advice of our provincial public health officials. Together, we have flattened the curve, but it could easily snap right back. In the words of Bonnie Henry, “be kind, be calm, be safe.”

Sincerely,

Jonathan Bagger

Director

See https://april.aps.org/program/seeing-the-unseeable-capturing-an-image-of-a-black-hole/?utm_source=am for more information.

Site-wide email update, April 14 - Next Town Hall & Updates

Dear Colleagues,

I hope everyone had a relaxing long weekend and had an opportunity to enjoy the beautiful weather.

Beginning tomorrow (April 15), my Virtual Town Hall meetings will take place weekly on Wednesdays from 2:30 – 3:30 PM. Until further notice, all future Town Halls will be accessed using the following details:

To connect via computer - https://ca01web.zoom.us/j/66749857662 (Meeting ID: 66749857662)

To join by telephone - (778) 907-2071 enter 667-498-57662 and press # twice

In the meantime, I invite everyone to take a look at some of the important medical work being done by TRIUMF during this pandemic, summarized here on the website: https://www.triumf.ca/current-events/triumf-community-rallies-response-c...

I look forward to seeing everyone soon!

Sincerely,

Jonathan Bagger
Director

Site-wide email update, April 9, 2020 - Long Weekend:

Dear Colleagues,

Thank you for participating in another Virtual Town Hall. It was great to see you again, with many of you Zooming in from ever-more-exotic locales. The meetings are proving to be very well attended; I hope you’ll continue to join me in the weeks to come as we move to a new time on Wednesdays from 2:30-3:30 PM. The link for the next meeting will be shared early next week.

In the lead-up to the long Easter weekend, I’d like to again thank you again for your patience, resilience and hard work over the last several weeks. We’re facing a reality that was unfathomable just a few months ago, but through it all we have managed to hold true to ourselves, to each other, and to the broader community. Our success reflects TRIUMF’s strong culture and values; it reminds me once more why I am proud to work with you, each and every day.

As we embark on this holiday break, I ask that you continue to do you part to maintain physical distancing as much as possible. In the words of BC Health Minister Adrian Dix, “Let’s bend the curve, not bend the rules.”

I wish everyone a safe long weekend.

Sincerely,

Jonathan Bagger

Director

Site-wide email update, April 6, 2020 - Important Updates:

Dear Colleagues,

I’d like to begin this week with several quick but important updates.

TRIUMF Operations: We have updated TRIUMF’s operational status on the COVID-19 Employee Resources website, including the news that all non-essential onsite research activities have been curtailed until at least April 30. For more information see this link: https://www.triumf.ca/node/35969/

New Health and HR Protocols: We have released new procedures related to reporting and responding to confirmed and suspected COVID-19 cases. These materials can be found on the COVID-19 Employee Resources website under Health and Safety and under Human Resources. I ask all staff to review the TRIUMF COVID-19 Response Plan (Document-180787). In addition, it is mandatory that all supervisors understand and work in accordance with the COVID-19 Absence, Sick Leave & Return to Work Guidelines (Document-180896). Complementing these new documents, the COVID-19 Employee Resources website contains new FAQs, including links to new face covering guidance from the Government of Canada. Also, a new page tracking onsite COVID-19 incidents is linked under the Updates section of the COVID-19 site. This resource, which requires a TRIDENT log-in, will be updated twice each week.

Site Access: Site access procedures are being updated and posted on the COVID-19 website. At this time, we have removed the requirement to contact the Driver Control Room upon arrival and departure on site. In addition, new guidelines for working alone will be posted shortly, which I ask all staff to review and follow.

Thank you all for your continued hard work and cooperation during this challenging time.

I will follow-up tomorrow with more information and updates.

Sincerely,

Jonathan Bagger
Director

March 31, 2020 - Important Updates:

Dear colleagues,

I hope everyone had a safe and restful weekend.

Two quick updates this evening:

Virtual Town Hall: My next Virtual Town Hall will be held on Thursday, April 2 from 2:30 – 3:30 PM. Join in with this information:

To connect via computer -
https://zoom.us/j/579223046
Meeting ID: 579 223 046

To access the meeting by telephone only -
(778) 907-2071 enter 579-223-046 press # twice

Please connect to share your thoughts and to ask questions to me and other members of the TRIUMF leadership team. This time, please turn on your cameras so I can see you -- and more importantly, so you can see each other!

Updated Website: As some of you may have noticed, the COVID-19 resources page (see the more information link below) has undergone a facelift to better organize the resources for our community. Please use this page your primary stop for TRIUMF information and guidance during the pandemic. The website is updated regularly with key information, including sitewide messages, townhall recordings, HR directives, health and safety protocols, and a variety of other important notices.

I look forward to seeing you (virtually) on Thursday!

Sincerely,

Jonathan Bagger
Director

See https://www.triumf.ca/COVID-19%20RESOURCES for more information.

Site-wide email update, March 27, 2020 - Important Updates:

Dear Colleagues,

Yesterday, over 250 members of our community came together for our first Virtual Town Hall. Thank you for participating -- and thank you for the excellent questions! If you have other questions or comments, please send them to us at covid19taskforce@triumf.ca. I look forward to meeting again in the very near future. Stay tuned for more on that front.

Tonight, I have two quick updates to share:

Reporting Illness: TRIUMF has developed a new protocol for reporting illness for all staff. Please refer to this information here.
TRIUMF Community Discussion Board: As announced earlier today by Ian Doyle, TRIUMF has launched a new platform to facilitate community engagement. Please join the TRIUMF Community Discussion Board to stay connected with your colleagues, to give and receive help from others, and to share virtual meet-ups and other social activities. You can access the page here

Keep in touch and support each other. Remember, we are stronger together than we are apart.

Sincerely,

Jonathan Bagger

Director

Site-wide email update, March 25, 2020 – Important Updates

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to grow, I would like to reassure you that we are doing everything we can to safeguard the health of our community.

The well-being of our staff is our top priority; we are working hard to minimize risks associated with continued operations. I will be providing more information at a Virtual Town Hall planned for tomorrow afternoon (see below for details).

Today, I am writing to share several updates:

Essential staff list: There are many individuals and teams whose on-site presence is critical to the safety and viability of TRIUMF’s scaled-back operations. The COVID-19 task force has been working closely with ALDs and group leaders to identify these people and set out guidelines for site access and safe work. We will share more information very shortly.

Virtual Town Hall: I will be holding a Virtual Town Hall tomorrow, Thursday, March 26 from 2:30-3:30 PM. You can access this meeting with the following Zoom link: https://zoom.us/j/497407373. If you have questions, suggestions, or comments you would like to ask, please send them to covid19taskforce@triumf.ca.

Contact information for administrative and business operations teams: Our colleagues in TRIUMF’s administrative and business teams remain at your service. However, most are working remotely. Please follow this link to learn how to you can reach them: https://www.triumf.ca/node/36000

TRIUMF community and the COVID-19 response: Many in our community have expressed interest in supporting the local response to COVID-19.

We are exploring ways for TRIUMF to assist in the COVID-19 response effort. If you have an idea or a lead as to how TRIUMF might help, please contact Reiner Kruecken at reinerk@triumf.ca
In this time of stress and isolation, it is important for each of us to remember that we are part of the larger TRIUMF community. We will soon be launching a Microsoft Teams-based forum to collect opportunities to help one another, from assisting colleagues and neighbours with groceries to convening virtual community events. Many of you are already exploring these opportunities, and I encourage you to bring these ideas forward to others via the Teams site.
And if you really want to feel better, join in the 7:00 pm cheer in support of Vancouver’s front-line health care workers.

I would like to thank you, once again, for your continued flexibility and resilience in the face of these challenging times. I look forward to seeing many of you at tomorrow’s Virtual Town Hall.

Sincerely,

Jonathan Bagger,

Director

Site-wide email update, March 23 2020: Site access protocols

Dear colleagues,

I am following up on this morning’s announcement by Jonathan Bagger that all on-site research activities and other non-critical on-site project and manufacturing activities are being curtailed until at least April 15. Only activities related to medical isotope production (TR-13, 520 MeV cyclotron, BWXT cyclotrons, IAMI construction) are deemed critical and will continue.

For all on-site research activities, this means that all equipment should be brought into a safe state that does not require any or only very infrequent intervention. Research and project activities should continue remotely.

I am asking all research groups to report to their ALDs by Tuesday noon, by when your systems will be in a safe state. If you deem it necessary to continue running certain systems (e.g. detector systems, cryogenic and vacuum systems, electronics and computer systems) you will need approval by your ALD, in particular if these systems that are not supporting the medical isotope production as well as maintaining a safe and secure status of the TRIUMF site.

Each division is in the process of identifying all essential personnel needed to support activities related to medical isotope production and these individuals will continue to be allowed on site.

We expect to have only this essential personnel on site starting Thursday, March 26. We will communicate who is among these personnel within the next day. If you believe an extension is needed to bring your systems into a safe state, please contact your ALD as soon as possible.

We will implement a process to request exemptions for any short-term site access in support of the medical isotope production activities, critical research continuity activities (such as filling of detectors, restarting failing equipment, etc.), or break fixes of essential site service.

Requests can be made by completing the exemption form (see link below) and submitting it to the respective ALD. Approval from the ALD and a Deputy Director is needed. For staff in the Directorate, both Deputy Directors need to approve.

https://www.triumf.ca/sites/default/files/Exemption_Request_Form_v2.pdf

Workers must call the Driver Control Room before entering the site and after exiting the site. All usual safety protocols must be used including pre-job briefings and job hazard assessments as applicable. If the planned work would usually require a work permit, a work permit still must be taken out.

Examples of the type of activities that might be considered are:

Send in a lab technician to fix equipment in the radiochemistry lab that is needed for the clinical medical isotope production as back up to BC Cancer.
Send in a mechanical services technician to fix or maintain a cooling water circuit that supports the 520MeV cyclotron.
Send in two machine shop machinists to manufacture a replacement part needed for the clinical medical isotope production.
Move a radioactive source in a detector lab or experimental hall
Fill a germanium detector with LN2
Power cycle a DAQ computer that is used for off-site work on DAQ software

Examples of the type of activities that will not be considered are:

Request to work in the office since it is quieter than at home.
Come in to take some data on a detector system because a student needs it to complete their thesis.
Come on site to complete installation work for a project that is not supporting medical isotope production.
Bring a contractor on site to have construction work done for a project that is not supporting medical isotope production.

If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out directly to us.

Stay safe, stay well, and stay in contact.

Anne Louise Aboud

Deputy Director, Operations

Reiner Kruecken

Deputy Director, Research

See https://www.triumf.ca/sites/default/files/Exemption_Request_Form_v2.pdf for more information.

Site-wide email update, March 23 2020: Reducing on-site activities:

Dear colleagues –

I hope your weekends went well, and that you were able to find some respite from the stress of the past week.

I’d like to start off this week by thanking you for the extraordinary efforts you are undertaking to limit the spread of COVID-19, both at TRIUMF and in the larger community. With luck, and intensified effort by everyone, we can save lives by flattening the curve.

To that end, we at TRIUMF are taking the next step: As of today, we are curtailing all on-site research activities until April 15, in line with UBC’s recent directive. This date might be extended, possibly significantly, depending how the situation develops.

We will continue to operate as a medical isotope producer, both for BC Cancer and for BWXT. Patients worldwide need our isotopes, and it is our duty to provide them, even in this difficult time. With fewer people on site, the better the chance that everyone stays healthy.

This decision was taken in concert with all ALDs, and I can assure you it was not taken lightly. We need to keep our site as safe as possible, and that means we need to stop all nonessential on-site activities.

Therefore, we are asking all researchers to leave their facilities in a safe state and to work from home during this period. We are also halting all on-site project and manufacturing activities until April 15, except those related to medical isotope production (TR-13, 520 MeV cyclotron, BWXT cyclotrons, IAMI construction). (The IAMI site is under the control of Ventana, our Construction Manager.)

We are now planning to restart the 520 MeV cyclotron on April 22 – one week later than originally planned. The delay will provide extra time to be sure all work can be done safely following appropriate social distancing protocols.

The deputy and associate directors are preparing a list of staff who need to access the site to carry out critical activities associated with cyclotron startup, medical production, and other essential lab operations. I ask that everyone else work with their supervisors to find meaningful work that can be done remotely. This is a golden opportunity to develop your skills through online training, to update documentation, and to catch up on all sorts of things that have been languishing.

I also ask that you implement this pause as quickly as possible, and that all activities cease by close-of-business Wednesday. If you feel you need an extension, or you anticipate the need to come on campus for any reason, please contact your ALD. The ALDs are working with Reiner Kruecken and Anne Louise Aboud to develop appropriate site access protocols. More to come soon about that.

And a special note to our researchers: use this time to finish documentation, complete an analysis, write a paper, or be creative! Know that Isaac Newton discovered his law of universal gravitation after he was sent down from Cambridge in 1665 because of the plague. As we all know, our apple trees are descendants of those from his home at Woolsthorpe Manor.

Stay safe, stay well, and stay in contact.

Jonathan Bagger
Director

Site-wide email update, March 20 2020: Update from the Director:

Colleagues,

I’d like to share several updates:

1) We will be delaying the start-up of the cyclotron by one week. The extra time will provide a bit of breathing room as we adjust to the rapidly changing situation.
2) We have updated TRIUMF’s FAQs, including additional information on staying safe at work and at home.
3) We cannot forget the importance of cybersecurity, especially when working from home.

• Be mindful when transporting devices on which data is stored (laptops, USB storage devices)
• Use only secure wi-fi connections
• Be vigilant for phishing emails and other malicious messages

Note that there have been numerous reports of cyberattacks targeting users who are seeking online resources related to COVID-19. As always, never download unknown or suspicious files to your computer.

This has been a challenging week for us all, and I thank you for bearing up so well.

Be safe this weekend!

Jonathan Bagger
Director

Site-wide email update, March 19 2020: TRIUMF priorities

Colleagues,

With more and more of us moving to remote work as part of TRIUMF’s social distancing efforts, it is important to update you on our operational priorities during this time of COVID-19.

First, our priority continues to be the health of our people. Changes to regular operations at TRIUMF are being made to ensure community health and well-being, while also advancing our mission. As a result, in consultation with your ALDs, we have re-evaluated the operational priorities for the lab.

In sum, yes, we will continue to operate TRIUMF, for as long as we are able. Our plan is to conduct as much mission-critical work as possible from off-site locations through work-from-home protocols. We are preparing for the cyclotron to start on schedule in mid-April, in order to supply patients worldwide with Strontium for medical use.

The start of ISAC will be delayed until at least June 16; this date will be re-evaluated as the situation develops. For now, all off-site science activities will continue, while on-site science will be restricted to activities deemed critical by your ALD – and only if appropriate social distancing or PPE can be implemented.

For a detailed outline of the operational plan, please see https://www.triumf.ca/node/35969. Questions about our revised priorities can be directed to your ALD. Note that this plan may change – and will likely change – at any moment as the COVID-19 situation develops.

If we continue to support each other, we can continue to deliver on our mission while we keep our community healthy.

Jonathan Bagger

Director

Site-wide email update, March 18 2020: COVID-19 Update

Dear Colleagues,

I’d like to take this opportunity to update you on TRIUMF’s response to the coronavirus pandemic, and the new protocols that aim to minimize risk to our community.

1. For those working remotely, remember that online tools are at your disposal to facilitate collaboration. Meetings can be held using Microsoft Teams and Skype for Business, which are included in our Office 365 subscription. Please note: Teams CAN be used by those with a TRIUMF email domain OR those without, which is a correction to a previous site-wide message. More resources about remote work can be found here: https://www.triumf.ca/node/35963

2. An FAQ page (https://www.triumf.ca/node/35961) has been created to answer questions about what to do if you are sick or facing self-isolation. Rest assured; you will be paid. If you have a specific question about your individual situation, please contact human resources at yourhealth@triumf.ca.

3. Following federal and provincial recommendations, we are encouraging work from home, proper hygiene, and social distancing, all aimed at flattening the curve. Please follow the recommendations to respect the health of all.

For those who work on site, we have distributed bottles of disinfectant to help keep shared spaces, such as kitchenettes and lunchrooms clean. Instructions for use are on the bottles, and empty bottles can be dropped off for refill at Room 101 across from the Driver Control Room. (Proper social distancing would suggest that you not drop in to chat with operators while you are there. Don’t worry, they’ll understand!)

We have plenty of soap and water for the frequent washing of hands. Hand sanitizer refills are backordered, but in the meantime we encourage you to wash your hands for 20 seconds using soap and water, which is more effective than sanitizer anyway.

4. Additional COVID-19 related questions or concerns can be directed to covid19taskforce@triumf.ca – we are monitoring that inbox daily and will respond as promptly as we are able.

Finally, I'd like to thank each of you for your flexibility and understanding as we navigate the changes that come each day. We are adapting as the situation develops, and I appreciate your efforts to accommodate these changes in the interest of community health.

We will continue to update you as we work through this pandemic together.

Jonathan Bagger

Director

Site-wide email update, March 17 2020: Health and Wellbeing in a Challenging Time

Dear Colleagues,

As we navigate through the coronavirus pandemic together, I would like to share the simple but important fact that the future will inevitably bring uncertainty, anxiety, and stress, to which none of us are immune. In spite of this, I want to remind you of the strength and support that you can find in our TRIUMF community.

Together in the coming days, we will face unprecedented upheavals in day-to-day life, from travel and social gathering restrictions to municipal activity directives and beyond. Additionally, each of us will face further challenges to our closest bonds – parents, children, friends, co-workers and neighbours. The cumulative impact will be difficult for many to bear.

At this point, you have received a variety of communications addressing immediate needs: protecting yourself and those you care about from the virus, work procedures, and others. I am writing this afternoon to share an additional message about our core values. Today, more than ever before, it is important for us to remember and live our values – to be compassionate, to take care of each other, and to support the success of all.

Our values are more than words. They represent us as a community. Therefore, in line with our values, I reassure you that we are committed to caring for our people, whether on site or off, whether we are operating or not.

As we support each other, we must also remember to take care of ourselves. As individuals, we must remember that our personal well-being is the single most important factor in keeping our community resilient in the face of turbulent times.

If you have questions or require support, I encourage you to reach out: to your TRIUMF community, to our colleagues in human resources, to your friends and family, or to an appropriate health professional. Please note that Homewood Health is our Employee Assistance Provider (EAP), who as part of your employee benefits, provides a wide array of support and resources. As our wellness services provider, you can call whenever or wherever you need them, including a hotline and counselling services. Please see the link below to access these services.

If you are able, please also consider proactively reaching out to check in on your TRIUMF colleagues to ask how they are faring. Remember: small gestures can have a tremendous impact. Social distancing does not mean we need to deal with this situation alone.

If you have any questions or concerns about how TRIUMF can help support health and well-being in our community, I urge you to reach out to Ian Doyle, Director of Human Resources, via covid19taskforce@triumf.ca.

During the days and weeks to come, our bonds will be tested, so I am asking each of you to step up and do what is necessary to help us weather the storm. The TRIUMF community has pulled together in the past, and I am confident we can do so once more.

Jonathan Bagger

Director

Site-wide email update, March 16 2020: Updated site access protocols

At the recommendation of TRIUMF’s COVID-19 task force, TRIUMF’s site will be accessible only to staff, authorized visitors, and contractors until further notice.

Furthermore, all staff, authorized visitors, and contractors must pass a screening protocol based on directives from B.C.’s Provincial Health Services Authority, comprised of the following questions:

Have you travelled internationally within the last 14 days, and returned to Canada after March 12?
Have you travelled internationally within the last 14 days to Italy, Iran or Hubei Province (China) and returned on or before March 12?
Have you been in contact with a known or suspected COVID-19 case within the last 14 days?
Are you experiencing COVID-19 symptoms (such as fever, cough, or difficulty breathing)?

Anyone who answers yes to any question is not allowed on site.

Staff are required to self-assess, and if the answer to any question is yes, please do not come on-site, and contact your supervisor and Ian Doyle, Director of Human Resources (x7314).

Authorized visitors and contractors must complete the TRIUMF COVID-19 Screening Questionnaire, which contains the same questions. The TRIUMF contact or supervisor is responsible for ensuring that the questionnaire is completed prior to site access via the Main Office Building and Stores.

The questionnaire is available as a .PDF here.

Site-wide email update, March 12: TRIUMF COVID-19 task force

TRIUMF has convened a lab-wide task force – chaired by Anne Louise Aboud, TRIUMF’s COO and Deputy Director, Operations – to facilitate planning related to COVID-19. With the situation rapidly evolving, the task force will meet daily to develop guidance informed by best practices from federal and provincial authorities – tailored to the specific needs of the TRIUMF community.

Hand sanitizer stations

TRIUMF will be increasing the number of hand sanitizer stations across the laboratory. We will also be hanging posters reminding all staff, students, and visitors to adhere to proper hygiene practices. Please take note of this information as it is posted across the site, and please follow the direction provided.

Public group tours are on hold

In addition, the task force has also recommended a temporary hold on all public tours. This change will be implemented immediately, with the cancellation of all the individual and group public tours that are currently booked.

Further updates to TRIUMF's travel protocols

In a joint statement issued on March 12, B.C.’s Minister of Health Hon. Adrian Dix and Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry (PHSA) announced that, effective March 12, the province’s health officials expect all individuals in B.C. who choose to travel out-of-country to self-quarantine for a period of 14 days upon their return.

TRIUMF is now taking in response to this directive:

1) All staff and visitors who returned to Canada from international travel on or after March 12 must place themselves in self-quarantine for 14 days and monitor their symptoms according the provincial government’s directives. Staff must also contact their TRIUMF supervisor.

2) All staff and visitors who returned to TRIUMF in the 14 days prior to March 12 must follow previous government directives, including 14 days of self-quarantine for those returning from countries with Level 3 travel health notices, and 14 days of monitoring for those returning from countries with Levels 1 and 2. Please see here for a list affected countries.

3) Effective March 12, TRIUMF will deny entry to staff and visitors who do not comply with these measures.

Please continue to monitor this page for updates.

Dear colleagues,

Happy New Year! I hope everyone had an enjoyable holiday season.

Thank you for your continued cooperation and effort to keep everyone safe.

Sincerely,

Nigel SmithDirector & CEO

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