2.5 | Emergency Closing

An emergency closing is defined as any closure (delayed opening, partial closure, or complete closure) declared by the president or a designee due to inclement weather, fire, flood, power outage, or any other cause beyond the University administration’s control. The University has an Emergency Notification System (ENS) that will alert the University community regarding any changes in normal operations. The ENS system will provide important emergency information via university email. It is the responsibility of every university community member to maintain updated contact information, especially during an emergency.

If an emergency is declared, classes or specific activities may be delayed or cancelled without an official closing. Access to specific areas on campus may need to be restricted to authorized individuals. Only authorized personnel assigned emergency or resource duties will be permitted to enter the incident area or building. Moreover, if emergency conditions occur during regular business hours (8 am to 5 pm), Human Resources will communicate any official University statement to departments regarding closing or other essential information. A supervisor of a unit may not unilaterally close a department. During an official closing, certain employees (“essential” employees) must remain on the job. Supervisors must obtain approval from the appropriate Vice-Rector before informing employees whether they are considered “essential” personnel. Employees will be expected to work their regular hours unless the University is officially closed. However, there are times when the University is not officially closed but when circumstances necessitate a supervisor being flexible in allowing employees to work outside of their regular schedules.

2.5.1 | Types of Official Emergency Closing

1. Delayed, Partial Opening: All University operations will be suspended until the time specified in the announcement. Employees classified as “essential” are expected to report to work at their regular scheduled time.
2. Partially closing: Classes, exams, and essential services will continue as scheduled. All other University operations will be suspended for the balance of the work shift. The time when normal operations will resume will be announced.
3. The University is Fully Closed: All classes, examinations, and other university-related activities are cancelled. The date and time for reopening will be announced as soon as they are determined.

2.5.2 | How the Decision to Close or Remain Open is Made

In collaboration with the appropriate staff, the President or a designee decides to close any or all University operations during any emergency situation. They will consider the impact of their decision on students and employees. The same group will be consulted on the timing of the University’s reopening.

2.5.3 | How Information About Emergency Closing is Disseminated

If university operations are closed due to an emergency, the President or designee will notify the Rector and Vice-Rectors who will contact their departments. Human Resources will coordinate the communication of the official closing statement to the University community.