Related TagscoronavirusCovid-19next stepsoccupier perspectivereturn to worktenant representationworkplace safety
A lot of our clients are beginning to reach out to ask for guidance and recommended strategies on how to return their employees to a healthy and safe work environment. I wanted to share the following recommendations and strategies that I have gathered from colleagues in real estate, workplace, and law over the couple of weeks to assist you in navigating the path back.
Companies and business owners should make certain to: (i) adhere to WHO/governmental/healthcare regulations and recommendations, and (ii) to consult with HR, IT, Real Estate, Legal and other experts when planning and implementing their return.
The health and safety of building occupants is a shared responsibility between tenants and landlords. Opening transparent lines of communication early with owners and property managers is a critical first step in making the return.
The workplace should be professionally cleaned in accordance with recommendations from the WHO prior to employees returning to work. Establish and clearly post rules, roles and guidelines for the use, cleaning and disinfecting of common areas (reception lobbies, conference rooms, call rooms, dedicated restrooms, collaboration spaces, copy/file/work rooms, etc.) and private workspaces.
Occupancy may be greatly reduced initially in order to accommodate a safe work environment. Companies will likely embrace a continued work from home policy for at risk employees and those who are nervous about returning to the office. Companies will be forced to rethink density and prioritize social distancing. Architecture firms are drawing on technology and software to assist companies with their occupancy planning. As an example, Gensler’s ReRun can quickly generate optimization scenarios which apply physical distancing preferences to and existing workspace and identify seats available for occupancy.
As we work to recover from the short/long term effects of COVID-19 do not lose site of the terms and conditions of your lease: Lease Expiration and other critical dates (Commencement/Rent Commencement/Holdover/Renewal Options/Termination Dates/Expansion Options (FRTL, ROFO, RFR)/Tenant Improvement Allowances/Payback of Deferred Rent, etc.). We are always happy to assist by providing pro bono lease audits.
The good news is that we are working our way closer to a “NEW” normal. There is no one clear solution and the return back to the office will look different for every organization. Please do not hesitate to reach out to your Flinn Ferguson Cresa advisor with any questions or requests.
Sources:
CRESA: The Return to Work
CRESA: Strategies for Managing Workspace During the Pandemic & Beyond
Cushman & Wakefield: Recovery Readiness Task Force
Association of Legal Administrators (“ALA”): Outline of Health & Safety Recommendations and Steps for Return to the Offices
Gensler: 10 Considerations for Transitioning Back to Work in a Post COVID-19 World
Written by // flinn
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