The FM contractor Mitie has launched a guide for facilities managers, ‘Getting Britain Back to Business’. It details four stages to prepare for a safe return to the workplace, plus a checklist, covering building aspects to be reviewed for safe return of staff. This includes cleaning, engineering, security, workplace design and front of house, waste and landscapes, energy management and sustainability.
Preparing for a return to the office recommends how to use route planning and employee zoning to prepare for social distancing, it can also be easily adapted to specific property portfolios, buildings or workplaces. The guide recommends businesses structure their planning around four key stages:
Stage one – Facilities and portfolio evaluation: With many workspaces currently closed or at minimal occupancy, now is the time to take a step back and review what building space the business actually needs. There may be an opportunity to reduce office footprint where there is no longer a requirement for it or alter the workplace design so it works more efficiently for employees.
Stage two – Recommissioning the workplace: As buildings and workplaces reopen, it’s important that they’re safe and fully operational for colleagues and customers. As well as ensuring that the building is sanitised and allows social distancing, it’s crucial that employees understand the actions the business is taking through employee communications.
Stage three – Adjusting to the new normal: The workplace will undoubtedly be transformed due to COVID-19, but embracing that change will offer opportunities for improvement. This could include leveraging technology more widely to reduce costs and enable social distancing or the introduction of new workplace practices and policies.
Stage four – Future-proofing: Looking further ahead, one likelihood for business is further uncertainty, and so it’s important to plan for more unexpected disruptions. Reviewing and improving processes – such as resource contingency planning or installation of remote monitoring systems – will ensure that businesses can navigate future challenges.
Businesses that work with Mitie to put these measures in place and ensure their workplaces are safe for employees to return will be granted a ‘Mitie COVID-19 Checklist Assured’ mark. The mark demonstrates to employees, customers and other stakeholders that the business has taken steps to ensure the safety and wellbeing of anyone accessing its properties.
Simon Venn, Chief Government and Strategy Officer at Mitie, pictured, said: “As businesses prepare for the return to their workspaces, knowing where to start and ensuring that everything has been covered can be a daunting prospect. As experts in managing all types of commercial buildings safely and efficiently – from offices and manufacturing sites to retail stores and historic buildings – we’re proud to share our experience to help get Britain back to business as quickly and safely as possible.”
Read Getting Britain Back to Business on the Mitie website.
