Many of us find it difficult to adjust to new routines, this includes shifting working from home to office. Due to the Coronavirus pandemic, not only the personal lifestyle but also other practices and etiquettes of the workplace have changed. As countries start to open up again, it is time to move your workplace from home to office as COVID-19 vaccines have rolled out and infected numbers have reduced. Read on to find out these amazing tips for going back to work post-pandemic.
Tips for Going Back to Office Post-Pandemic
People will gradually start going back to offices. If you are feeling like returning to work after COVID-19 may be awkward and scary. Here are some tips to make yourself comfortable and protective in offices.
Wear your mask
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) urged people to wear masks even if people are fully vaccinated in May 2021. On June 25th, 2021, the World Health Organization (WHO) asked people to continue wearing masks due to COVID-19 variants even after they are fully vaccinated. Philip Tierno, professor at the NYU Grossman School of Medicine stated that if an employee learned that his colleague didn’t receive vaccination then they can wear a mask. Not every worker from your office or organization is comfortable taking off a mask and feeling safe without wearing a mask even after vaccination. It is better if you wear a mask while working at the office. You should carry two or more masks in your bag or your office desk.
Wash your hands
Washing hands when you are at the workplace is the smartest way to protect yourself. By touching contaminated surfaces then rubbing your eyes, mouth, and nose can spread the COVID-19 virus. Washing your hands with soap and water can prevent transmission.
Take precautions and avoid crowded places
Crowded places are a perfect environment to get infected by the virus. Carrying sanitizer, wearing masks, and physical distancing are the most important precautions you should follow. They help protect your loved ones who are medically vulnerable or young children. You should know that people who have been fully vaccinated can infect unvaccinated people with new variants. Since COVID-19 vaccines aren’t 100 percent effective, it is great if you avoid crowds.
Sanitize your work location
You must clean your desk regularly to make you feel comfortable, especially if you share the same desk or work the second shift.
Know the plan
Many workers are required to get vaccinated before going back to the office. According to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), it is legal for employers to ask for vaccination confirmation certificates for all employees. You should be aware of your organization’s safety procedures and plans before joining the office.
Make personal boundaries
Some employees are excited to see other workers in person. This might include unwanted handshakes and hugs. You should avoid physical touch. Open communication may help coworkers know you are concerned about safety during your working hours. You need to make them understand we all require safe and comfortable working environments because everything is not the same as before. Let them know your current boundaries or limits. For example, you can say, it is uncomfortable to wear a mask all the time, but I have a loved one who hasn’t gotten vaccinated and I’m worried about his health.
Give yourself time to adjust
After surviving a global pandemic for more than a year, feeling stressed, and anxious is normal. Give some time to adjust to the new normal environment.
Conclusion
Are you feeling unhappy, depressed, or scared of going back to work, then you are not alone. You need to follow these easy steps to protect yourself mentally and physically.
