December 1, 2020

New COVID-19 Public Health Order

As you’re likely aware, COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations are increasing rapidly across California and, in particular, here in Los Angeles County. This is certainly alarming and reinforces the need for all of us to closely follow the protocols implemented by our local public health officials.

In fact, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (LACDPH) has just released a new targeted, temporary “Safer-at-Home” Health Officer Order. The order, attached to this message, limits public gatherings, reduces the number people allowed in retail businesses, and requires all Los Angeles County residents to stay at home as much as possible.

Residents are still permitted to travel to and from essential businesses, and work or provide services to a healthcare operation or essential business. Residents may also engage in essential activities or participate in permitted individual or household outdoor and indoor activities while practicing required distancing, infection control, and masking. Institutions of higher education are still permitted to operate under the new public Health Officer Order. 

What does this Health Officer Order mean for El Camino College? Because our first priority has always been the health and safety of students and employees, we continually review and adjust our protocols, based on direction from LACDPH. Supervisors have been asked to provide their staff members training on those protocols, which is accessible through the College’s website. Additionally, we’re continually cleaning and disinfecting the campus, distributing personal protective equipment, and updating our Campus Reopening Safety Plan.

We’re also mindful of reporting confirmed cases to LACDPH and the campus community. Current LACDPH orders require immediate reporting of three or more cases within a 14-day period. We monitor all confirmed, reported cases to ensure we comply with Health Officer Orders. 

The safety and well-being of our campus community will continue to be our primary concern as we navigate the COVID-19 pandemic. Thank you for all you’re doing to move the work of El Camino College forward in a safe and responsible manner. If you have any questions please contact Mr. Michael Pascual, the College’s liaison to LACDPH. 

TARGETED TEMPORARY SAFER AT HOME HEALTH OFFICER ORDER  SUMMARY OF SAFETY MEASURES (PDF)