The United Campus Workers of Georgia concerns mirror demands by workers in other parts of the country, particularly for graduate students working part-time on college campuses. United Campus Workers of Georgia estimates there are about 8,500 part-time employees and 57,000 graduate students in the University System.

The University System has made some changes concerning worker safety and health since the pandemic escalated in Georgia this month. It is providing free virtual COVID-19 screenings for all employees, according to its website. Several system colleges and universities have said they are willing to accommodate employees apprehensive about coming to work.

Some universities, such as the University of Georgia, are paying employees for hours not worked up to the equivalent of their regularly scheduled hours per week when there is not work for those employees. UGA announced the policy Wednesday.

Georgia’s public colleges and universities have closed campuses for students and moved classes online for the remainder of the semester.