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Indiana University
COVID-19

Physical Distancing

Physical/social distancing is the practice of keeping at least six feet of space between yourself and others as a way to reduce the risk of infection. Practicing physical distancing on campus and in the workplace is just as important as it is in the broader community.

While it may be particularly challenging to stay six feet apart in some campus environments, such as athletic or childcare settings, physical distancing should still be attempted as much as possible.

See the CDC’s guidelines for physical/social distancing

Guidelines for physical distancing at IU

Whether you work, learn, or live on campus—or are just visiting—the following guidelines should be followed to reduce the risk of community spread of COVID-19:

  • Stay at least six feet apart from others.
  • Eliminate contact with others (e.g., hand-shaking, hugging).
  • Avoid touching common surfaces (where possible) and wash hands frequently if it’s not possible to avoid touching surfaces.
  • Allow only infrequent and intermittent passing within six feet.
  • Avoid large gatherings of people (more than 10) when feasible.
  • Take the stairs rather than an elevator when possible.
  • Separate work stations by at least six feet or use a physical barrier (e.g., shields, curtains).
  • Maintain physical distancing during breaks and at shift start and end times.
  • Stagger break times and work schedules.
  • Limit in-person meetings to fewer than 10 people and maintain at least 6-foot spacing.
  • Take separate vehicles.
  • Minimize the number of people in a work area at the same time.

Signage

IU has created informational and educational signage on all campuses to remind people to physically distance. Signage has been placed throughout spaces, as well as at entry and exit points of buildings and high-traffic areas.