We want to show you how to create a safe workplace that will encourage regular visits to offices and preserve the company's organizational culture. Together with our partners, we tried to redefine the role of the office, as well as develop rules that will allow us to properly manage its space and respond to current needs. The office of the future is a place where employees want and don't have to come. It is also a space conducive to the development of interpersonal relations, exchange of experiences, helping to maintain a balance between personal and professional life - says Adam Targowski, director of Sustainable Development at Skanska's office company in the CEE region.
In order to increase the sense of security of employees after returning to their offices, Skanska has developed the "Care for Life Office Concept". It answers the question - how to arrange an office where you can work in peace during a pandemic?
1. More rooms to help you concentrate
An important motivator for working in the office is the space that helps to focus. Working in a separate, closed room increases efficiency. Convert an open space into several rooms for individual work. Employees will also appreciate the separate rooms where they can rest.
2. Facilities that facilitate collaboration
According to a study commissioned by Skanski, we still prefer working in the office. However, in times of a pandemic, it must offer more than before - it should be better, more comfortable and attractive than what we have at home. Various spaces such as Creative work rooms will allow us to choose the most effective and most suitable style of operation, as well as increase safety. Provide a place for teamwork and additional services: cafes, game rooms, rooms with massage chairs, nap rooms and fitness areas.
3. Use of conference rooms during a pandemic
In times of pandemic, the number of people in conference rooms should be reduced. Sensors recording data on occupancy will allow you to control the number of participants in the meetings. The office space should be more flexible - if it is not possible to organize a meeting in the room, arrange an open space for this purpose.
4. Optimization thanks to PropTech solutions
Computer simulations, which use statistical probabilities, more and more often encourage tenants to more optimal use of space. Sensors, heatmaps and traffic monitoring already support these decisions.
5. A desk wider than 1.6 meters
Social distance also influenced the furnishing of offices - it is the so-called The "six-foot rule." It involves adjusting office spaces to keep a distance of six feet (1.83 m). You should use desks that are at least 1.6 meters wide. Rows of desks should be 2 meters apart to create safe aisles.
6. Desk sharing prohibited
Desk sharing is a common solution used in flexible offices. During a pandemic, it is better to give up sharing. A workstation should be assigned to only one person per day. Thorough disinfection of the workplace is also a priority that must not be forgotten.
