All of the optimistic folks believe at some point, we will be heading back into the office. Human beings are practicing social distancing during the pandemic, and many believe being cautious of germs will become a habit.
Whenever that day comes where we can get back to our desks, building owners and company leaders are preparing for a space that will comfort all workers returning to work outside of their quarantine home. The New York Times reports that there is a possibility that offices will look “radically different” post-pandemic.
“Returning workers can expect stepped-up cleaning and reinforcement of social distancing,” reads The Times. “Maintenance staff will swab door handles. There may be limits on the number of people allowed in an elevator.”
The goal is to avoid germs, and office and building managers intend to make this as realistic as possible. New technology is even being developed that will give employees access to rooms and elevators without having to touch a handle or a button.
Once employees return to their office space, they cannot go back to a familiar habit. Business owners are prepping to place signs in the bathroom to remind everyone to wash their hands. They will encourage elbow bumps instead of hand shakings or high-fives. It’s a whole new lifestyle, and if you want a job, you will have to adapt to the times.
Obviously, the goal is to keep all employees physically healthy. However, creating safety protocols will do good for the mentality of the office.
“You’re trying to build confidence and a secure feeling,” said Scott Rechler, the chief executive and chairman of RXR Realty.
At the end of the day, we hope at some point when this pandemic ends, we can live our normal lives and participate in normal activities without the constant fear of germs. However, taking extra precautions during the initial return to regularity is crucial for the morale of all people.
# # #
SOURCE: Jane Margolies, “Same Office, Redesigned For Social Distancing”, The New York Times, April 8, 2020, Page B7
Comments