Good morning and happy September.
Tuesday, September 6 is the official start of the new DHHS Telework Policy. We are excited to welcome many of you back to our offices. We want to use this opportunity to update you on several “hot topics.”
Department Statistics: Over 2,100 workers have approved DHHS Telework Policy forms, including workers who choose not to telework.
Safety: COVID-19 has evolved from an unknown, deadly disease into one that is better understood, that can be treated, and that has safe and effective vaccines. As such, some of the protocols used to limit its spread have been scaled back by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. That said, COVID-19 remains with us, so we continue to endorse policies and practices to keep our workplaces safe:
- Cleaning: Since the pandemic began, the State of Maine implemented additional office cleaning procedures to conform to those recommended for COVID-19 by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Ventilation: The Department has been implementing several strategies to reduce the risk of exposure within offices, which include ensuring the proper maintenance of the HVAC systems; requiring filter changes on a quarterly basis; increasing the fiber density of the filters (where appropriate) to allow fewer particulates to pass through; and increasing the amount of fresh air introduced into the workspaces (where and when appropriate). Additionally, DAFS recently hired an Occupational Health and Safety Compliance Coordinator who is helping the Departments, including ours, to assess air quality concerns, making recommendations, and arranging for any necessary services.
- Hand sanitizer: All of our offices have hand sanitizer strategically placed, although thoroughly washing your hands remains a strong line of defense against a number of illnesses.
- Mask requirement for workers who have not submitted proof of being fully vaccinated: The Work Rule implemented in July 2021 remains in effect at this time. We also welcome voluntary masking and recommend it when you have been around someone who has been sick. Some people have family members who are immunocompromised; others may want to respect co-workers who are concerned about communicable disease. Whatever the reason, we want you to have no hesitation when wearing a face mask in our work environment.
- Vaccine support: Our State employee health plan pays for the COVID-19 vaccine and boosters, and - COVIDcare Administrative - Leave is available for the 2022 calendar year to get a vaccine or a booster, or when recovering from the side effects of a dose. A number of offices will also offer on-site vaccine clinics for flu and COVID-19 this fall. Getting vaccinated will help protect you against the worst consequences of these diseases. We expect new booster shots to become available in the coming days.
Value of Hybrid In-Office and Telework Policy: As Tuesday approaches, some have asked: why are we bringing people back to offices? Working in offices has a number of benefits. It allows for more fluid discussions without the need to find the “mute” button. It fosters stronger relationships among co-workers and a greater sense of community. It has the benefit of being able to provide in person mentorship between new and more experienced employees. And it can improve efficiency – issues can sometimes be resolved by walking down a hallway rather than scheduling a meeting. Many of the Maine residents we work with also may value in-person connection: digital and virtual connections are neither universally available nor universally comfortable for the people we serve.
Others are asking: why are we continuing to allow telework? We have learned that it can be as productive as in-office work for some functions and individuals. It allows for less commuting time and a reduced carbon footprint for our Department. It helps with work-life balance for some workers. And our ability to conduct remote work benefits some of our clients, partners, and stakeholders as well who themselves may struggle with transportation, child care, and other barriers to in-person meetings.
Another Reason to Come Back…. Thanks to the hard work of Desirea Chase, Martha Kluzak, Kathy Veilleux, Jane Daniels, Wendy Malinowski and many others, I have some good news to share.
WHOOPIE! You’re coming back! Next week, supervisors will greet employees with “Wicked Whoopie” mini whoopie pies provided by the Department. This is just a small token of appreciation to thank you for your dedicated service to the people of Maine. And it is a sweet way to welcome you back to the office.
Thanks, Jeanne
Jeanne M. Lambrew, PhD,
Commissioner