While COVID-19 continues to impact our personal and professional lives, people are beginning to return to work in office. As a result, property managers are tasked with the responsibility of following best practices to ensure tenant safety. We’ve highlighted some key strategies property managers are using to create a safe workplace.
Encourage Tenants to Review and Follow CDC COVID-19 Guidelines
Current CDC guidelines state that people should stay six feet apart from one another and wear a face covering when around others. They also recommend continued hand washing and hand sanitizing routines. Property managers should post signage throughout the building to ensure occupants are informed on best practices.
Restrict Access to Certain Common Areas
Generally, commercial leases and property management agreements do not address viral epidemics. Because of this, it is up to the discretion of the property manager to implement strategies to ensure tenants are not in close proximity to each other. As a result, they may restrict access to common areas, such as fitness areas, recreational spaces, cafeteria seating, and other indoor amenities.
Property managers may also request tenants to limit outside guests from entering the building. This way there will be minimal foot traffic coming through the building and promote a safe working environment for other tenants.
Increase Cleaning Procedures
The best practice property managers can do is put a greater emphasis on cleaning and sanitizing frequently used areas. Depending on how many occupants are in the building, it’s fair to assume they will touch many of the same things — elevator buttons, door handles, countertops, bathroom sinks, and other surfaces. It is key for janitorial staff to stay on top of these procedures to mitigate any health risks.
Prepare With Risk Assessments
Conducting a risk assessment analysis is a simple, efficient way to ensure property managers and staff are on the right track in their safety protocols. Analyze building operations, such as security, maintenance, housekeeping, parking, and garbage disposal to see where opportunities may lie. Plan for possible staff shortages as well as supply chain and service interruptions. Make sure your staff knows their role and communication protocols if they are uncertain about anything.
Plaza Companies Is Here For You During COVID-19
No one is sure when the COVID-19 pandemic will end, and people must take appropriate precautions to protect themselves and those around them. At Plaza Companies, we’re actively helping our property owners initiate strategies to ensure their tenants work in a safe space. Contact us today if you have any questions about how you may implement strategies in your new space!