The University of Washington never actually closes because many units such as Harborview and University of Washington Medical Centers, the University Police, Facilities Services, Housing and Food Services, etc. provide essential services that just continue.
Infrequently however the University as a whole, a University campus or a unit may have to suspend academic and administrative functions because of severe weather conditions or other emergencies.
In units that provide "essential services," the supervisors or managers inform employees of their responsibilities should severe weather or other emergencies require that the University's academic and administrative units suspend operations.
From Home:
Employees who are home or away from the University and need to determine the University's operational status should call the appropriate information line.
If the University is in operation, then it is employee's decision whether to come to work or not and the Inclement Weather policy covers the employee's compensation and leave use.
If the University suspends operations, and an employee has not been designated as an "essential worker", the Suspended Operations policy covers the employee's compensation and leave use.
At Work:
For the Seattle campus, the President determines whether operations will be suspended.
For the Bothell and Tacoma campuses, the respective Chancellor/Dean determines whether operations will be suspended.
If operations are suspended, notification is sent to Deans, Vice Presidents, and the Director of Libraries.
If the University suspends operations, email, UWIN, and other communication technologies are used to announce the decision.
Supervisors and managers will notify employees of the action they should take.
Personal Choice:
Daycare facilities or schools may close because of weather conditions and an employee may need to to either leave work early or stay home even if the University remains open. Under such conditions the Inclement Weather policy covers the employee's compensation and leave use.
These telephone lines provide up to the minute information about the University of Washington's three campuses' operations during emergencies or severe weather conditions.
206-UWS-INFO (206-897-4636) and toll-free 1-866-897-4636
Suspended Operations
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