The latest studies show that most remote workers are ready to return to the office. While working from home sounds like a good idea, not everyone prefers it. And with kids at home schooling, it’s not exactly the most quiet environment for parents. How can you reopen your office facility while keeping people as safe as possible? We have gathered some tips to help.
Take A Survey
Whenever making office policy changes, include your employees in the conversation. Perhaps your staff is doing well at home, or would like to come in part time. Maybe it makes more sense to have a hybrid remote/in person schedule. You won’t know how best to support your team unless you ask. What is working for them? What is not? Does your staff have any suggestions for what would make them feel safer at the office? Spend some time upfront learning about the needs of your employees before making changes – it will pay off in the end.
Get Familiar With Current CDC Guidelines
Because our knowledge of the novel coronavirus that causes Covid-19 is always growing and changing, the guidelines from official sources may change as well. If your facility has been closed for some time, make sure you look for the most recent recommendations as they have likely changed in the last 10 months. Also look to local regulations, as they may differ from federal guidance. For the most current information, visit the CDC site directly. It contains guidelines for office buildings specifically, so you don’t have to wade through a mountain of non-pertinent material.
What Are Other Businesses Doing?
In your local area, who is already operating in facility full or part time with good results? Here are the protocols we see most often in buildings we serve that have worked very well:
- Clear, well communicated policy regarding Covid-19 prevention, screening, and exposure
- Regular disinfection services in addition to standard janitorial cleaning, typically electrostatic disinfection
- Changes to office layout to accommodate distancing as well as the installation of barriers (like desk shields)
- Requiring protective equipment like masks, providing hand sanitizer and encouraging hand washing regularly
- No hassle attendance policy – don’t come in if you feel at all unwell.
These are just some basic practices we have seen to help protect people at the office. As you consider bringing your remote workers back together, even part-time, take into consideration the needs of your employees, your office layout, and come up with a plan. For your facility disinfection needs, Virus Assassins is here to help. Give us a call, or schedule a quick 15 minute meeting through Calendly to get started.