We are shifting to “mask optional” classes in the dojo. The Governor decided to drop the “mask mandate” in Oregon as of March 12. Throughout the pandemic our dojo covid protocols and policies have followed the Governor’s orders and have been influenced by the guidance of OHA and MultCo. We continue our in-dojo protocols to reduce the chance of infection:

• Maximize air flow: open windows and doors and turn on the box fan filters before class.

• Clean hands and feet before stepping onto the mat.

• All members clean up surfaces in the restroom after every use.

• After class, all students pitch in with dojo care and cleaning tasks.

As always, if you’re feeling ill please take care and stay at home. 

This change marks an inflection point in the arc of the pandemic and reflects the improving public health outlook. Yet we recognize that things could change. We will continue to monitor the public health environment and update our dojo covid protocols and policies as appropriate. 

We now have two air filtration machines positioned at either side of the main training area. They are the type assembled with box fans and merv 13 filters. These continuously filter the air while student are training. In addition, we open up windows and doors on the east and west side of the building to maintain a good cross flow of air. Everyone is wearing masks while inside the dojo. Any new members joining the dojo are required to show their vaccination card. This policy has been in effect for several months now. We clean the mats after the last class each day of training. September protocols below are still in effect as well.

Circumstances surrounding the pandemic are volatile and will probably continue to be. Here’s what we’re doing at the dojo. I ask for your support and participation as we continue to practice:

 - Masks - We have been following OHA guidelines and the Governor's mandates. At this time masks are required while inside the dojo, but optional at outdoor classes.

- Vaccinations - Any new members accepted to the dojo will need to show their proof of vaccination to the chief instructor.

 - Ventilation - We’re opening up the dojo windows and doors, setting fans to draw air through the dojo to maximize good air flow. 

Training:

• Members are asked to stay home when feeling ill (this has always been a policy, even pre-pandemic).

• Before class, members are asked to wash hands and clean feet before bowing on to the mat.

• During class we encourage members to take care and don’t over exert. This is not the time to push one’s limits. It’s okay to step outdoors if you need to catch your breath.

• Teachers adapt the exercises for the students in attendance and according to the prevailing conditions. Teachers also monitor students carefully and change activities to manage safe practice.

 Schedule:- 

• Mix of classes offered: indoor, outdoor, and virtual

• Concentration of indoor aikido classes on M/W/Sat

• Expanded Iaido schedule (M/F)

• Limited class capacities for indoor classes

• Member driven outdoor practice sessions (Thu. to continue)

• Online learning resources through Dojo Online

• Camaraderie fostered through Friday Social Club, Saturday Q&A, and Slack topic channels.

Moving forward we’ll continue to adapt to changing conditions, practice resilience, and persevere!

Under pandemic conditions, and when we can open the dojo for in-person practice, we will be implementing new policies and procedures that a) attempt to mitigate the risks associated with training, b) comply with all governmental orders, and c) clearly communicate to members our shared responsibilities and expectations.  Below are some of the changes that you can expect as indoor classes resume:

Member responsibilities:

• We have a new Member Code of Conduct (see below) that members should read and understand.

• Class sizes will be limited, and members will need to pre-register to attend classes.

• Members should bring their own filled and labeled water bottle to class.

• Classes will be conducted with attention to current conditions and varying intensity levels.  Students are encouraged to self-moderate their activity level if they find themselves breathing hard.

• Members are asked to clean and disinfect the restroom facility after each use.

Dojo protocols during high-risk pandemic conditions:

• Windows and back door will remain open for the duration of all indoor classes to promote good ventilation.

• The foyer and dressing rooms will have occupancy limits.  You may need to allow additional time for changing both prior to and following class.

• Use of the kitchen facilities for food preparation, use of the water cooler and the shower off the kitchen, will be temporarily unavailable (other than for cleaning and storage of supplies).

• Class times will be adjusted to allow for the cleaning and sanitizing of the mats, dressing rooms and bathroom.  Members should be prepared to stay 15 minutes after the posted class time to help with the required cleaning tasks.

These policies and procedures are implemented for your safety, or required by law, and are designed to make the training space as safe as possible.  Your cooperation and assistance in implementing the guidelines are essential and appreciated.  

Member Code of Conduct

• All members and visitors must go through the following protocol when entering the dojo:

• Registration / Check-in - members should be pre-registered to allow the instructor to check them in once they arrive.

• Hand Sanitizing - please sanitize your hands immediately upon arrival.

• Health Self-Assessment - read and understand the heath self-assessment* posted in the entryway upon each visit to the dojo.

Beyond Check-In:

Visitors must wear a face covering that covers the nose and the mouth. There is a mask exemption possible for fully vaccinated members (see Sensei for procedure).

Members should bring their own filled and labeled water bottle to class.

Members will be asked to clean and disinfect the restroom facility after each use.

Members are asked to self-moderate their activity level if they find themselves breathing hard.

All members are responsible for cleaning weapons with an approved sanitizer after each use.

All members must wash hands per posted CDC guidelines.

No showers are permitted at this time.

All members and visitors must maintain six feet of distance at all times (when under high-risk pandemic conditions)

Members should immediately report potential known contact with any infected individuals.

Members should take home gi and weapons in a closed bag and launder gi frequently.

Members are highly encouraged to follow CDC guidelines while outside of the dojo to mitigate the risk of  virus transmission. 

*Health Self-Assessment

In the past 14 days:

Have you had a new or worsening cough?  

Have you had a fever?  

Have you had shortness of breath?  

Have you been in close contact with anyone with these symptoms or anyone who has been diagnosed with COVID-19? 

If you answered “yes” to any of these screening questions, please do not come to the dojo until all symptoms, including fever have been resolved for at least 72 hours without medication, or at least 14 days after contact with a person with a cough, fever, or a COVID-19 diagnosis. 

Any member exhibiting symptoms of illness will be asked to immediately leave the facility and not return until at least 72 hours after symptoms have resolved without medication. 

We strongly encourage members to assess their own health, take care of themselves, and stay home rather than expose the dojo community to infections or communicable illness.