The Hawaii State Teachers Association received confirmation Monday that an employee who works at its Red Hill headquarters had prolonged contact with someone who tested positive for COVID-19.
This employee is currently self-isolating and, out of an abundance of caution, the HSTA closed the building for deep cleaning Monday. Due to strict safety protocols that included mask and social distancing requirements, no other employees were likely exposed.
HSTA has been taking measures to ensure the health and safety of its staff for months. Fourteen Oahu employees have been working 100-percent remotely since March, and only 18 employees were allowed regular access to the building, with some going into the main office just once a week. All Oahu employees are now working remotely until further notice.
“HSTA is asking the Hawaii State Department of Education to follow our example by allowing employees to telework, limiting the number of employees physically at worksites, and quickly disclosing potential positive cases and how many employees are self-isolating,” HSTA Executive Director Wilbert Holck said.
In addition to its Honolulu headquarters, HSTA has offices in Hilo, Kona, Kahului, and Lihue. All have been closed to the public since March.