A new analysis of workplace design by commercial real estate firm JLL has found that landlords and companies are turning to technology to help protect the health and safety of employees who are returning to the office.

The ongoing pandemic has meant landlords and businesses have had to redesign offices to meet new health requirements and respond to a workforce that has a heightened concern for health and wellness – but the analysis finds it’s not just about moving desks six feet apart or putting barriers between them. New air filters, signage routing people to the kitchen, and hi-tech products previously seen as optional – like ultra-violet lights to disinfect surfaces, or ways to use lifts without pushing any buttons – have become increasingly utilised.

Keeping the office germ-free through technology
Many organisations have already adopted touchless office technologies, such as bathrooms with light-activated sinks and hand dryers. New technologies such as apps on mobile phones to control lighting, temperature and AV equipment, to doors and lifts that open with corporate badges are being added to reduce employee contact and ensure cleanliness.

One firm, Blue Cross Blue Shield, has even adopted a QR code programme for cleaning desks and conference rooms.

Says Nakira Carter, Vice President, PDS at JLL:

“After somebody finishes with their desk or meeting room, they scan a QR code which then notifies a porter to immediately come in and clean it. So, if someone comes in 15 minutes after you’ve left, they can feel very confident that the desk or meeting room they are in has been cleaned and sanitised.”

The analysis finds that companies have also started using ultra-violet light to disinfect offices when no one is around, since UV rays can be harmful to humans.

In the US, some organisations have installed “cleanse portals”, whereby customers step in, turn 360 degrees and remain for 20 seconds before entering the store. JLL considers it might not be long before office building owners start implementing this type of technology in order to ease the minds of workers and guests who enter.

Ways to de-densify
The analysis finds that companies have been staggering the number of employees allowed in the office each day, cordoning off every other desk, or finding other creative ways to keep a distance.

Some companies have installed “desk pods” for up to four employees that allow collaboration while still being physically distant. Others are utilising unoccupied meeting rooms to lessen the number of employees out on the floor.