Hello Friends of KML,
We have some exciting news! The Keys Marine Lab has transitioned into our Phase Two Reopening! This increases KML’s capacity to 50% and allows us to host small educational groups of up to 10 people.
Additionally, Phase Two adds a COVID-19 Illness Incident Contingency Plan section to the pre-arrival Health Status Survey Form. Due to KML’s relatively remote location with limited local care facilities, it is necessary for visiting groups to devise a detailed response plan in of the event of a suspected COVID-19 infection during your stay. KML will facilitate in any way possible should this situation arise, but the PI of each group bears the primary responsibility for their group contingency plan.
New Phase Two requirement:
All groups will be required to submit a COVID-19 Illness Incident Contingency Plan for review and approval before arrival. An outline for this plan is on page two of KML’s Prearrival Health Status Survey. This plan includes the steps to be taken by your group in the event of suspected COVID-19 illness. This should include who and how your group will provide care, especially if medical care or hospitalization is necessary (see our Health Care Facilities document), getting tested, etc. Your plan must also address your protocols to vacate KML as soon as safely possible and return home to isolate, quarantine, and/or receive medical attention. KML will facilitate as best as possible in this process but it is the responsibility of your group to have a contingency plan in place.
Phase Two continued requirements
1) Pre arrival COVID-19 testing, Health Status Surveys, and twice daily temperature checks while on site.
2) KML will still only book 1 group per Dorm unit (no mixing groups) however we may split a single group of 10 people between 2 dorms as needed.
3) Face masks are still mandatory (as per Monroe Co) indoors, and outdoors when social distancing cannot be maintained.
4) Daily disinfecting of all high-touch surfaces is still in effect.
As always KML is here to facilitate your field research and education needs safely and efficiently. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us. For more information on KML’s response to COVID-19 please see our COVID-19 Information page.
We hope to see you all soon!
KML Staff