Back in the Office - Now What?

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After what seems like an eternity, slowly but surely, a new sense of routine is starting to take shape in people lives. The presence of COVID-19 still hangs thick in the air while individuals bravely venture out into the world. 

It's a scary time for everyone. There are new safety protocols in place everywhere you go. Shopping malls seem quieter, and eating out in a restaurant is a new experience. And what about going back to work after months of being holed up at home? 

While some companies are flexible and allowing employees to work from home indefinitely, others aren't as accommodating. If you're one of those staff members who's required to go back to the office, these guidelines can help you to make sure you're putting your well-being first. 

Cover Up

Going back to the office might mean being around more people than you have been in a while. While the virus is still present, many companies are requesting that staff members wear masks to protect themselves. 

Most of us will agree that it's safe to say that human beings aren't meant to wear masks all day. We know that it's best for now, but they aren't the most comfortable items we've had to get used to. It's important to be extra careful while we're moving around, especially if you're wearing a mask that doubles up as a full face shield. 

Go Slow

Accidents happen when you least expect them to. You're nervous yet excited all at the same time to be back in the office, and you might find that you're rushing around to catch-up and get things done. 

Remember to take it easy when you're back at work. Diamondlaw.ca believes that slip and fall accidents often occur as a result of negligence. Check with your employer if the necessary safety procedures have been adhered to and implemented in the workplace. 

If your place of work has been closed for an extended period, regular maintenance might have been suspended. Discuss this matter with your direct manager, especially if there's anything that looks like it needs attention.

Hygiene Conditions

Each person should take responsibility for their workspace. Always disinfect the area around your desk and wipe your worktop. Try to keep the minimum social distance required with other people around you. Avoid touching any part of your face if you can, especially if you're touching surfaces and objects at work. Make a point of washing your hands more frequently. If you're using a shared kettle to make coffee, take extra care and spend more time to get rid of any germs.Keep a bottle of hand sanitizer on your desk, so that you have access to it at all times.

Open Plan Working Spaces

If you work in an open-plan space, make sure that management has placed the desks further away from one another than usual. Some offices have installed transparent screens between desks to protect members of staff further. 

If you're more at risk than others and are uncomfortable sitting in an open space, try to negotiate with management to move to a more secluded part of the office. Set-up a temporary working area in a spare meeting room so that you keep contact with others to a minimum.

Conclusion

These tips suggest having minimal close contact with anyone in the office is best. Be aware of your surroundings, and don't leave anything to chance. If you're uncomfortable about a situation at work during these uncertain times, make them known to management so that they can be addressed.