Having a priority plan even before day one of reopening is crucial to successfully reopening the office and getting everyone back to their workplace with confidence.
With Singapore moving into Phase 3, the government partially easing workplace restrictions and more people returning to their workplace, business leaders are grappling with their own understanding of how to return to a safer workplace.
Determining a time to return to work and having a priority plan even before day one of reopening is crucial, to successfully reopening the office and getting everyone back to their workplace with confidence. Extreme care is necessary because a resurgence of the virus might require businesses to return to “emergency response” mode and drive a movement back to quarantine measures.
In addition to preparatory, pre-opening activity, the back-to-business schedule offers mission-critical activities to implement from day one, and in subsequent critical periods.
Here is a list of key checkpoints that businesses will need to prepare for to successfully and safely reopen their offices, or download the guide at the end of this article.
Prior to returning to the workplace
There is a need to review and evaluate current space plan, including common areas, workstations etc. Occupiers will also have to consider and implement comprehensive service needs and space arrangements for employees.
The first day back
Safety guidelines will need to be visible and clearly communicated and recommunicated. A clear roadmap of future changes with timeframes and impact will be well received.
The first week back
Occupiers need to have weekly reports and ensure rapid response measures and any shutdown procedures are in place should a reemergence of the virus occur.
The first 1 – 3 months and beyond
Occupiers will have to reassess status of long-term and return-to-normal and decide what needs to be permanent and what will continue to adjust. This includes office space density, safe management measures such as partitions and safe distancing, as well as remote working measures.
Communicate early, ensure everyone is onboard
Underpinning all plans for businesses is the spirit of partnership and collaboration among key stakeholders and employees.
It is crucial to monitor and communicate early, compellingly and as often as necessary to ensure a smooth transition and steady operations. There needs to be an ability to maintain readiness in case of roadblocks and ultimately, to ensure employees’ comfort and satisfaction.
Download the full Time It Right – A Step by Step Guide to Safe Reopening the Office here.
You may also like:
- Reimagine Your Workplace With a Focus on Health and Safety
- Back-to-Business: A Roadmap for Building Owners
- Are You Equipped and Ready for The Great Return?
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