Create A COVID-19 Reentry Task Force

As many building associations expected, with the COVID pandemic moving into the rearview mirror, many employers want to see their staff back in the office. Because of this, Matt Morrison, communications manager for Kaivac, suggested that business and building managers create a COVID-19 Reentry Task Force.

This task force, according to a piece distributed by Kaivac, would oversee all aspects of reopening including the following:

- Determining if facility restrictions or changes to workplace layouts are necessary.

- Evaluating cleaning practices, procedures, and systems.

- Creating an “alert system” to communicate with building users quickly.

Morrison added that a COVID-19 Reentry Task Force should also oversee the following areas:

Access Control

Limitations on who and how many people can be in the facility at one time will be key.

 Risk Assessments

Some areas of a workplace have higher risk levels than others.

“OSHA has prepared a [booklet] ‘Guidance on Preparing Workplaces for COVID-19.’ This can help the task force identify these higher risk areas and minimize or eliminate those risks," he said.

Cleaning Systems

Concerns are mounting about “indiscriminate disinfecting” during the pandemic. Many cleaning professionals have been using disinfectants anywhere and everywhere to grapple with COVID. This is unhealthy for the user and the environment.

“What we have learned is that effective, thorough cleaning is often all that is necessary to prevent the spread of the virus," said Morrison.

Support From The C-Suite

It is crucial during this reentry period that the C-suite be fully behind the process. 

Dialogue

Expect building users to raise questions and concerns about the facility and the steps that were put in place to protect their health.

“What is crucial is that the task force encourage this dialogue," said Morrison. "Complete transparency is critical during this [reentry] period.”