As Government restrictions relax over the coming weeks, many people who have been working from home during the Covid-19 lockdown will head back to the office in some capacity. With social distancing measures remaining in place, and a far greater emphasis on staff health and wellbeing, how can you adapt the workplace so employees feel safe?

In the short term it will be difficult to make the structural changes which will undoubtedly be a lasting legacy of the pandemic. However, there are numerous things you can do that are easy to implement to give people peace of mind.

1. Divider screens

Incredibly easy to install, divider screens allow for social distancing and provide additional protection against harmful airborne particles. For those occupiers with limited space screens will enable greater office densities.

2. Social distancing demarcation

Social distancing is arguably the most effective measure for preventing the spread of Covid-19. However, maintaining distance is not a natural instinct so signage is critical to ensuring success. This includes everything from restrictions on numbers using facilities to one-way systems to reduce passing levels.

3. Social distancing software

The introduction of desk finding and utilisation tools, which inform employees which areas are in use, booked or out of use for cleaning. This can all be delivered via an app-based system, for example showing desk availability on phones, tablets and laptops by using existing desk sensors or booking systems.

4. BYOK – bring your own kit

There’s evidence that the virus can survive on different surfaces for varying lengths of time. To provide peace of mind, employees can be encouraged to bring their own equipment, such as a mouse and keyboard, to minimise risk of spread via communally used kit.

5. Desk traffic light system

For those without the required technology to provide digital solutions, there’s also an analogue option. Totems or flag-based systems use visual cues to allow users to identify which desks are free and clean.

6. Return of the tea trolley

The reluctance of some staff to use allocated tea points and breakout areas due to cleanliness and hygiene concerns may result in the return of the tea trolley to deliver refreshments direct to desks.

7. Enhancement of AV & VC capabilities

An increase in conference and video calling, especially while offices are at reduced capacity with colleagues still working from home will require most meeting rooms to be fitted with audio and video equipment that is easy to use and connect with personal devices to avoid sharing and any unnecessary contact.

8. More plants

Increased air exchange and improved filtration systems will be necessary to provide fresh air supply to the office. However, in the short term plants will help keep oxygen circulating.

9. Hand sanitiser stations

Hygiene measures such as sanitising stations and waste bin protocols are essential. This is especially important at entry points to help minimise the risk from those coming from outside of the building.

10. Personal lockers

Ensure there are designated areas to store and pick up personal belongings for employees in order to maintain the appropriate cleaning standards. If on-floor lockers are not available, cupboards, unused desk space or storage boxes are a good alternative.

Further information

Read more: Savills Office FiT