When you return to office working after lockdown the environment will be different. Management will need to work out how to prepare and change the office to allow a safe return for teams.
Remote and working from home will be part of the new normal for many businesses. This is a result of health benefits and the time under lockdown reinforcing video conferencing as a reliable business tool. Remote access IT systems that have been hastily implemented will continue to allow teams to collaborate. However, there are many areas of working in an office that can’t be replaced by technology. Therefore, to effectively manage or work in a team there is still a need to have regular office meetings. Therefore we see a blended working process becoming the new normality.
COVID19 Office Planning and Priorities
Hygiene and reducing contact with others are the key factors that will form the new post-COVID 19 offices. The large open plan office design no longer fits these new priorities and dividers or screens will need to be added for protection. Cleaning will need to be more intensive and that will mean strict clear desk policies will be introduced or become enforced.
Breaking the office up into sections that provide some protection will need to be carefully planned. This will provide the safe environment but nonetheless maintain a team working capability all be it in smaller groups. Sourcing reliable supplies of cleaning materials, PPE and working out ways to allow hand washing or sanitiser will be crucial. Use of technology will also have a key role in reducing common touch points such as light switches and door handles.
If you need support working through your office re-design and planning to work in the office after lockdown then do Get in touch.
As an example of some of the screening options available can be seen at panelscreens.co.uk