Mercy College started fall classes Wednesday, with new COVID-19 safety protocols in place.

Campus officials say capacity has been reduced in residence halls, classrooms and public areas.

They say they've improved ventilation systems and now offer touchless food ordering options, hand-sanitizing stations and more options for remote learning.

They'll also be testing students who live on campus for the coronavirus.

"We begin that - actually - today. It will continue through this weekend and we will have ongoing surveillance testing for our community of students in the residence halls," says Kevin Joyce, vice president of student affairs at Mercy College.

Joyce says if students do not follow the rules like mandatory mask wearing, their privilege to be on campus can be revoked.