COVID-19 Update

Published January 2, 2022

Dear Shipbuilders,

Last week, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated its guidance regarding isolation and quarantine recommendations. We are reviewing the new guidance and potential impact it could have on NNS operations. As we come through our evaluation, we will continue to communicate any changes with you in a timely manner.

In the meantime, and as we prepare to return from the holiday shutdown, we are mindful of the increasing number of COVID-19 cases in our community. Please take a moment to read through our current guidance to help minimize its spread in our shipyard and our community.

  • Anyone experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 or who has tested positive for COVID-19 should not report to work and should call 1-844-243-8749, Option 4 to schedule a COVID-19 test. The call center will open at 6 a.m., Monday, January 3.
  • Shift checks and Crew Talks should be done outdoors if possible. If not possible, proper social distancing is required.
  • Supervisors should assess the need for in-person attendance or whether work can be performed remotely for the week of Jan.
  • Web-ex meetings are recommended in lieu of in-person meetings, when possible.
  • Everyone, regardless of vaccination status, is required to wear a mask indoors, in covered facilities, and in transit when 6 feet of social distancing cannot be maintained.
  • Masks are required for everyone on all commissioned Navy ships per the Department of Defense.
  • Unvaccinated personnel must continue to wear masks outdoors unless social distancing is maintained and may remove their masks for the following purposes:
    • When requested by Security for identity verification.
    • When wearing NNS-approved respirators to perform your job.
    • When performing hot work.
    • When eating, while maintaining social distance.
    • When drinking for brief periods to stay hydrated during a shift.
  • NNS-sponsored social gatherings must be held outdoors to reduce the risk of COVID-19 exposure. Food and drink should not be shared. Pre-packaged foods such as box lunches can be provided.

Thank you for your continued attention to these safety protocols. We are committed to keeping NNS as safe as possible throughout 2022. We appreciate your support and patience, and we will provide additional information once we complete our review of the CDC’s new guidance.

Respectfully,
NNS Crisis Action Group (CAG)