Has the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers assisted with the COVID-19 response?
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) worked with the White House, Department of Defense (DoD), and other federal, state and local partners in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. USACE’s largest mission supported FEMA and severely impacted states with building alternative care facilities to support the surge in care requirements resulting from the outbreak. USACE worked around the clock to help states convert hotels, dorms, arenas and other facilities immediate care options for patients.
USACE stands ready across all 50 states and territories (Puerto Rico and Virgin Islands) to assist with emergency response as needed.
How did ERDC contribute to efforts?
ERDC offered a series of scientific capabilities to DoD and government entities to combat the COVID-19 pandemic. Our team is also adhering to the latest COVID-19 guidance in regards to social distancing and CDC recommendations.
In addition, our USACE Reachback Operations Center (UROC) offers 24/7 support to the field, providing updated laptops and software to Forward Engineer Support Teams, and supporting the USACE Common Operating Picture (UCoP) to provide situational awareness to leaders about COVID-19 activities around the country.
We are continuing to discover, develop and deliver ways to serve America’s Warfighters and the nation.
Read more about what ERDC has done:
When can employees expect to return to ERDC facilities to work?
Since the beginning of the pandemic, ERDC has closely monitored all DoD and USACE guidelines, as well as local and state directives. Protecting our personnel from COVID-19 exposure is our top priority, and plans are unique to each ERDC facility, based upon safety guidelines from official authorities. Employees should contact their supervisors for the latest information regarding individual circumstances and plans.
Are employees who are considered high-risk or vulnerable expected to return to work once campus reopens and how can they ensure protection?
Employee safety has and will remain our top priority. Team members are encouraged to have a discussion with their supervisor to discuss individual status and pertinent concerns.
What happens if someone at ERDC tests positive for COVID-19 after we return?
Supervisors will conduct contact tracing within the ERDC footprint and notify the personnel who may have been exposed so that they can be more self-aware of any potential symptoms. Above all, we will follow the current CDC guidelines for our actions.