Landlords and tenants are looking at the design and management of office spaces, to ensure the safety of employees amid the Covid-19 outbreak.
A new report on the Dublin office market by Savills Ireland, has looked at a number of factors being considered in the short and long-term, such as cleaning protocols, lift capacity, transport options and occupational density.
In order to allow for social distancing, the report suggests that lift capacity will need to be reduced, stating that in post-Covid China, the lifts in some office buildings are currently only operating at 50% capacity.
It expects that some employers will use this opportunity to highlight the health benefits of using the stairs more often.
It also suggests that reduced lift capacity may encourage employers to stagger staff hours to prevent rush-hour backlogs, however this is not expected to be a huge issue in Ireland, due to the high number of low-rise buildings.
On the issue of commuting to the office, the report states that we can expect to see more people walking, cycling and using private cars.
It says that avoiding public transport is unrealistic for many employees and a sustainable long-term solution either requires an effective vaccine or reliable protective equipment which allows people to commute with confidence.
The report suggests that employers may have to re-work their office layout, to ensure employees have enough space to social distance.
In a reversal of trends over the last 20 years, the report suggests there may be less emphasis on open-plan and communal space.
It says that the operation of barista stations and canteens, and the use of pooled crockery will also have to be carefully re-considered.
The report states that sanitation will be a concern in all workplaces, however it says this will be of greater concern for multi-let buildings where common areas such as receptions, lifts and toilets are shared.
It suggests that easy-clean surfaces will be fitted out in most offices.
It also states that there could be a move towards toilets being located within individual offices, which would allow multi-let employers manage their own facilities.
However, it says retrofitting this into existing buildings is unlikely as it would require substantial reconfiguration of the building.
