As the Summer ends and the children (finally) start returning to school, more and more businesses are slowly allowing parts of their workforce back into their office spaces. But with COVID-19 infection rates on the rise and many members of staff reluctant to go back, companies will need to reimagine the way they physically operate to ensure their offices are secure, safe places to work.
Updated Security Protocols
Firstly, entry into your office may need to be rethought. If you have physical barriers for staff entry (such as locks or entry gates) it might be vital to upgrade them to contactless ID scanners. Alternatively, if your workforce is returning to a building with push/pull doors, automating these or installing soap dispensers alongside them might become a necessary office security measure.
Moreover, whatever security policies you have in place for visitors will be reconsideration. If you have receptionists they’ll need protection to ensure social distancing, and if there is a sign-in process your office may need to change this to minimise contact points.
Preparations for Staff
Due to the risks posed by COVID-19 to your office security, you must prepare your staff for their return if you are to reduce the chances of potentially seeing a positive case on company property. Our advice for this is to look at optional office attendance, flexible working options, and to schedule your workforce so that only a limited number of your staff are in close contact with each other. In addition, layout changes might need to be made in advance to the return of workers. This will further allow your staff to remain at a safe distance from one another, and will help to improve your office security from coronavirus.
Maintaining the Physical Security of your Office
Of course, even with these measures in place, your business will still have much to do when it comes to keeping secure. This is why regular cleaning, mask policies, and rules concerning communal office spaces, are recommended. If these measures can be established and subsequently maintained, then the risk to staff members should be reduced as much as possible.
Finally, the return to office will also mean the external security of your office space will need extra attention, as more valuables are likely to be left overnight on your premises once again. For more advice on this, you can check out our recent Improving Physical Business Security Article Here. If you’re planning staff returns in the coming weeks, you can also view our piece on Cyber Security In A Blended Workforce for more information on improving the safety of your office!
