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Appendix A: Inclement Weather Policy

General Statement:

As a defined essential service and vital component of the University community, the Ethel K. Smith Library will attempt to provide basic services and maintain normal hours, as possible, when classes are cancelled due to inclement weather conditions.  All adjusted hours will be posted to the Library website.

Please note that in the event of a power outage, the Library will immediately evacuate all patrons and close the entire facility (signs will be posted on the front doors).

Professional Staff:

Staff members that reside in the immediate Wingate University community will be transported to and from the Library by the Maintenance or other designated University staff with the appropriate vehicles for the weather conditions.  In compliance with OSHA standards, Library entrances should be clear prior to the arrival of the staff.*

Those staff members that are unable to travel impassable roadways will not be penalized for their absence.  However, those staff members that cannot travel are expected to notify the Circulation Desk (8089) as soon as possible.  The staff members that do make it to the Library will be compensated their time at a later date.

Student Assistants:

Residential student assistants are expected to report for scheduled duty only after the main entrance and walkways to the Library have been cleared.*  Commuting student assistants should call the Circulation Desk (8089) in order to inform the supervisor on duty that they will not be able to travel to work.

Evening Hours:

In the event that the NC Department of Transportation or local authorities deem roads passable for only emergency personnel or if the National Weather Service anticipates that hazardous weather conditions will continue into or are predicted for the evening, the Library will cancel evening hours.  Closings will be posted on the front doors and the website.

*OSHA

1910.22(a)(1) All places of employment, passageways, storerooms, and service rooms shall be kept clean and orderly and in a sanitary condition.

Though inclement weather is considered an “act of God,” the University will make every effort possible to provide a safe work environment for its employees.

Updated October 12, 2007