Mar 11, 2020

Update: NAGE Responds to State of Emergency

We are writing to update you on NAGE's efforts in response to COVID-19, following Governor Baker's press conference yesterday afternoon.  As you know, we have been in contact with the Governors office since last month, writing to offer any assistance in the prevention efforts to keep employees in the Commonwealth healthy and safe.  Our latest communication with the Governor can be found below.  

NAGE is also working with individual agencies to implement protection plans for our members. We are requesting the State take additional cleaning and sanitation measures, offer greater flexibility with teleworking and leave options, among other health and safety measures.  We are following the recommendations of the CDC as closely as we can, and urge all members to do the same.  The CDC guidelines can be accessed HERE.  The most important protocols to follow are:

• Wash you hands frequently for at least 20 seconds
• Use hand sanitizer when soap and water are not available 
• Avoid touching your face
• Cover coughs and sneezing with a tissue or your inner elbow, never your hand 
• Stay at home if you are feeling ill
• Clean and disinfect surfaces that are touched frequently

We would like to ensure you that we are doing everything possible to keep your workplace healthy and safe.  We will keep you updated as we communicate with Departments and Agencies about specific protocols. 




 

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March 10, 2020

Just before 4:00PM, Governor Baker declared a public state of emergency in Massachusetts.  This will allow for the state to take additional measures in prevention of COVID-19.  Individuals are encouraged to remain vigilant with personal hygiene, washing hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, avoid touching eyes and face, and sanitize surfaces that are touched by many people.  Please remain home if you are feeling sick to contain spread of any illness. 
 
MA Executive Branch Employees were instructed to abide by the following:

• No travel for work purposes, both domestic and international
• No international travel for personal purposes, whenever possible
• Do not attend large work events, with both on-site and outside vendors
  • Participate virtually when the option is available
• Avoid large events outside of work whenever possible
• Teleworking is encourages for individuals who are able

 
We will keep you updated as additional guidelines for state employees become available. We will be following up with the Administration regarding telecommuting, alternative work options and the additional cleaning and sanitation measures being taken to keep our members healthy and safe.  To see our first communication with the Governor, please click HERE.  
 
Check out Masslive.com for additional information