The Return to the Office After COVID-19
By Albany Supplies
The return to the office after COVID-19 is in preparation as many organisations worldwide are expecting to go back to the ‘normal’ work environments that they experienced pre-pandemic. However, this may not be an easy transition for many.
Whether an organisation is preparing for a phased comeback to the office, or an immediate return to the workplace, various elements need to be well thought-out. This includes how they plan to cope with regulating a surge in cases, vaccine protocols and in general, unfamiliar approaches to working.
What are the Irish government guidelines for returning to the office?
The government guidelines in Ireland specify that the return to work establishments must be done in a vigilant and cautious manner. For example, this includes efforts such as risk assessments, social distancing implementations and proper sanitisation. Before October 22nd, attendance should initially be for specific business requirements.
The Health Safety Authority (HSA) will perform workplace inspections and give advice to employers. If these recommendations are not put into action, then the HSA has the right to shut down the establishment.
Returning to the office is likely to come with obstacles, even with proper measures in place, you may experience difficulties along the way - but not to worry as we have put together some general information for the return to the workplace for businesses in Ireland.
What social distancing measures are needed?
Maintaining social distancing is crucial to the return of the shared workplace environment. Effective social distancing measures must be put in place and communicated to staff members effectively.
General safety signs and floor paint/tape are useful when it comes to maintaining social distancing for employees in the workplace. These can both be found on our website.
Is personal protective equipment (PPE) necessary?
It is not always possible to maintain a 2-metre distance from others in the office environment, so as an employer, it is important to consider if you require PPE. This may include the use of face masks or face visors.
In order to return to the office in a safe and secure manner as the risk surrounding COVID-19 mitigates, it is important to follow a sample schedule such as this:
- Assess the risks – see a number of checklists and templates on the HSA website here.
- Develop a return to the workplace strategy – perhaps you need to examine the arrangement of office desks for extra space between employees.
- Communicate the strategy to your staff – keep your employees in the know by informing them regularly and holding meetings to keep them up to date.
As we move back towards ‘normal’ life, we must take all precautions in the workplace to prevent the spread of possible infection. We have a wide range of safety and PPE in one place so you can look no further!
If you can’t find something or you have a question, please call us 028 90838811 or contact us and our team would be happy to help.
