Important Updates on Our Precautionary Measures Related to COVID-19

The following email was sent today to all Goldman Sachs employees by Laurence Stein, Chief Administrative Officer. 

The COVID-19 outbreak is constantly evolving, and circumstances differ in each region and by country. Supporting the health and wellbeing of our people both inside and outside the office remains our top priority, and to that end, we ask that you understand and adhere to the firm’s precautionary measures in addition to following guidance from global and local health authorities. In particular, as it relates to self-isolation and social distancing, we have a global, cross-divisional policy that applies to all Goldman Sachs colleagues (for some jurisdictions, this policy may be more restrictive than directives issued by local authorities).

Importantly, if you are not feeling well, you must stay home even if your symptoms are mild (e.g., scratchy throat, runny nose). Take sick time or work from home until your symptoms have subsided. If you are unsure of whether you should come to the office, stay home and call Wellness during business hours.

If you have questions on the below, contact your Wellness team (Americas, EMEA, Asia, India, Japan) or the Occupational Health team during local business hours, or seek medical attention from your doctor.

COVID-19 Information
The firm has a comprehensive COVID-19 site, available directly via your GSWeb home page, that is updated daily with our latest guidance, information on social distancing and travel restrictions, answers to frequently asked questions and other resources.

COVID-19 infection most commonly presents with fever, cough and shortness of breath.  Please note that testing availability varies by country.

If You Develop Symptoms Consistent With COVID-19: In addition to following local authorities’ directives, you should contact your manager, stay out of the office and call Wellness for guidance. You will need to register on the HCM business continuity portal and receive Wellness clearance to return to the office.

If You Live With Someone Who Has Symptoms Consistent With COVID-19 or a Confirmed Case (or Have Knowingly Come Into Contact With a Confirmed Case): Our firmwide policy in this case is that you should contact your manager, stay out of the office and call Wellness for guidance. You will need to register on the HCM business continuity portal and receive Wellness clearance to return to the office.

Individuals at Risk: Certain groups of people are at greater risk of infection or complications, including those aged 60 or older, those with underlying health conditions or weakened immune systems, or those who are pregnant. If you believe that you or a household member have a medical condition that may put you at greater risk, talk to your manager about working from home. You may contact Employee Relations for a consultation.

Managing Cases in the Office: To the extent that we have a positive diagnosis in one of our offices, the firm has various protocols in place, including conferring with public health authorities, and will act promptly when such cases are identified to minimize your risk.  Wellness will provide advice around any actions that should be taken.

When You Have Traveled to Impacted Locations
Please ensure you are familiar with the firm's policy on business travel, as well as considerations for personal travel:

• In the US, please visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) site to ensure you are familiar with the latest restrictions.
• In Asia Pacific, view the latest travel advisories for Hong Kong and Singapore.
• Travel within Europe for the majority of countries is permitted and does not require 14-day self-isolation upon arrival at your destination.

If you are planning an upcoming vacation, assess your own personal and family risk and be thoughtful about your plans so you can best enjoy your time off.

Changes to On-Site Facilities Beginning Monday, March 16

Cafeterias and Food Offerings: For the cafeterias that remain open, precautionary measures will include extending opening hours and increasing space between seating to enable social distancing. Restaurant staff will also be on point in the seating areas to regularly clean tables. Food offerings will be amended, providing served options from in-house staff and individually packaged products and cutlery to minimize touch points.

On-site Childcare Facilities: These will continue to operate where allowed by local health authorities in accordance with the firm's BCP policy. Specific details will be shared with parents in each office location. We are aware that school closings may impact many of our colleagues’ childcare arrangements, and are asking all of our managers to be flexible as team members coordinate their schedules.

Fitness Centers: Out of an abundance of caution, we have made the decision to close all of our on-site fitness centers until further notice. This includes all group fitness classes, personal training services and firm-sponsored recreational activities.

I appreciate that this sustained period of uncertainty is weighing on all of you and your families, and thank you all for your continued attention and cooperation as we focus on protecting our Goldman Sachs community.

Laurence Stein