All 50 states are starting to reopen. The rules are different in each location but here are 5 basic tips to consider as your teams start to come back into the office. And remember in all cases if anyone is sick or showing symptoms, remind them to stay home.
1. Social Distancing: All persons, including employees, customers, and vendors should remain at least six feet apart to the greatest extent possible, both inside and outside workplaces
- Establish Protocols to ensure that employees can practice adequate social distancing
- Require and provide face coverings or masks for all employees
- Provide signage for safe social distancing
2. Hygiene Protocols
- Provide regular sanitation of high touch areas throughout work site such as doorknobs, workstations, equipment, screens and restrooms
- Encourage frequent hand washing and hand sanitizing by having multiple stations throughout your workplace ensuring adequate supplies
3. Operations
- Provide training for employees regarding the social distancing and hygiene protocols
- Establish Guidelines & Procedures. If you are sick, stay home. If you feel sick, go home. If you see someone sick, politely send them home.
- Have a “return-to-work” plan for any employees who have tested positive for COVID-19.
4. Workplace Common Areas
- Kitchens: use disposable items only (plates, utensils, cups), do not leave personal items in the sink and no personal water bottles should be used in communal dispensers.
- Meeting Rooms: keep meeting sizes small to maintain social distancing and wear masks.
- Post safety guidelines and state specific compliance documents
5. Cleaning and Disinfecting: Disinfection of all common surfaces must take place at intervals appropriate to said workplace.
Once you have your health and safety plans in place for your reopening, you need a clear communication strategy to ensure your staff and customers understand their role in mitigating COVID-related risks.
Communication is critical during this time. When you tell your customers about your reopening plans, be ready with a unified message across all channels, and reiterate that message in-office and through regular touch-points. Most importantly, be prepared to provide updates, take feedback and adapt your operations.
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