FAQ - Keep HBS Healthy - Harvard Business School

Dining

What steps is HBS taking to promote health and safety in its dining outlets?

HBS Operations and Restaurant Associates are currently practicing the following protocols to ensure the community’s health and safety:

Training: All associates and managers have been trained in the latest protocols for cleaning, protection, and food safety.
Cleaning: During service, all high-touch surfaces are cleaned and sanitized regularly, and each outlet receives thorough cleaning every night.
The Thrive mobile app is the way to go for quick, easy, contactless food and coffee orders. Avoid the Spangler rush and pick up at your convenience.
Grab-and-go options remain available at all campus dining outlets, and outdoor dining spaces are available throughout campus.

Is catering available?

Restaurant Associates catering is available for both indoor and outdoor events. Please visit the Operations website (login required) for the latest information on both HBS and self-catering options for 2021-22, including what locations can support campus catering.

Can I come to the dining outlets if I have COVID or am in quarantine for being a close contact?

No. Community members who are in self-quarantine should remain home and limit their contact with others during this time. Those in HBS housing can arrange online ordering and delivery (housing@hbs.edu).

MBA Student Partners

Can Partners get tested through the Harvard testing program?: Partners are eligible to participate in the Harvard testing program. Those who will be interacting with the HBS Community are encouraged to test once per week. To participate in testing, Partners will need to Register as a HBS Partner then complete the additional steps outlined under COVID-19 Testing.
Can I use one of my student’s Color tests since we are living in the same household?: Tests may not be taken by another household member of an eligible tester.
What happens if I test positive but my student hasn’t yet?: If you test positive, you should assume your student is a close contact. Both of you should submit your exposure and symptoms via Crimson Clear and you will be contacted by HUHS. You should immediately isolate and create a list of other close contacts.
Are HBS partners considered Visitors or Guests when accessing campus?: Partners of our MBA and Doctoral students are considered full members of our HBS Community and are treated as students in terms of campus access. They are not considered visitors or guests. If they haven’t done so already, we also encourage students to register their partners with the MBA and Doctoral program office, even if at this moment the partner does not anticipate coming to the HBS campus. Please contact partners@hbs.edu with any additional questions.

Personal Health

I cannot participate in testing because of medical reasons. Who should I contact?: If you are eligible to test, but cannot participate in testing, please contact your manager (for staff), unit head (for faculty) or program staff (for MBA and doctoral) (mbaanddoctoral@hbs.edu; 1-617-495-6087) to discuss an exemption. Please note, if you cannot participate because you have previously tested positive, please contact HUHS directly at (617) 495-5711 or healthservices@huhs.harvard.edu.
I have a compromised immune system and cannot be near other individuals. What happens if I cannot or do to want to come to campus?: A range of options may be considered, depending on your specific situation, to support your health, safety, and well-being. MBA students should contact Student and Academic Services. Doctoral students should contact the Doctoral Programs Office. Staff should contact their manager or department head. Faculty should contact their Unit Head or program chair.
I’m experiencing COVID-19 symptoms, what should I do?: We ask that you use Crimson Clear to report when you are experiencing COVID symptoms, have a recent exposure to a positive case, or test positive outside of our program. When you do so, HUHS can follow up to provide you with health guidance.
Someone in my household is at risk and I do not want to come to campus. What should I do?: A range of options may be considered, depending on your specific situation. MBA students should contact Student and Academic Services. Doctoral students should contact the Doctoral Programs Office. Staff should contact their manager or department head. Faculty should contact their Unit Head or program chair.
Why do my test kits sometimes look different?: Harvard utilizes two different labs in its testing procedures, and depending on supply chain availability, you may notice that your test kits are not always the same. Both tests are equally effective and include instructions in each kit.