DBIC Operations: Health and safety practices during COVID-19

The health and safety of DBIC staff, researchers, and research participants is always our top priority. This is the driving factor behind our  temporary shutdown is to  protect the health of our research and local communities.

Out of an abundance of caution, DBIC access is restricted to core operational staff only. These few people require access to maintain the health and wellbeing of the fMRI scanner. Though the number of people in and out of the DBIC during our shutdown is extremely limited, we will continue to follow very strict protocols to ensure the continued safety of our Center.

• Core DBIC staff will monitor themselves for symptoms of COVID-19 or other illnesses. If staff experience any of the symptoms below, they are not allowed to enter the DBIC. Further guidance can be found about illness and the workplace can be found here.
  • fever
  • cough
  • chills
  • congestion
  • vomiting
  • diarrhea
  • muscle aches
• Core DBIC staff will wash their hands prior to entering the DBIC, and again immediately upon entry. Core DBIC staff will also wash their hands prior to exiting the DBIC, and again after the exit the DBIC. The DBIC is equipped with a sink and hand soap, as well as hand sanitizer. DBIC staff will follow handwashing practices as recommended by the CDC.
• Core DBIC staff will be cleaning frequently touched items/surfaces, as per CDC guidelines. We use Clorox wipes to clean surfaces in the DBIC. This includes, but is not limited to:
  • door handles
  • light switches
  • keyboards
  • computer mouse
  • telephones
  • counters
  • head coil
  • phantom
  • DBIC peripheral equipment (response pads, button boxes, etc.)

On the rare occasion that a service echnician from Siemens needs to come onsite to perform maintenance, they will be required to follow the same protocols and procedures as detailed above. The DBIC staff member accompanying this person will be responsible for ensuring compliance.