While COVID-19 has affected us all deeply, we see that businesses are strong and determined to emerge on the other side. Now is the time to build and execute a thoughtful and purposeful back-to-business strategy.

As organizations prepare to reopen their doors, you can almost sense the energy in the air. There is anticipation as both employers and employees look to resume their schedules and re-establish income-generating opportunities. And there is tension in not fully knowing what to expect when foot traffic resumes and the operations light goes green. One thing remains certain: business leaders are committed to ensuring the safe return of both their employees and customers.

The intense focus on safety awareness has heightened the interest and need for pre-opening site safety inspections. Pre-occupied with new protocols and procedures specific to COVID-19, business leaders are looking for assistance when it comes to the safety of their buildings and premises. For example:

• Many buildings and facilities have sat vacant in recent weeks. In turn, some systems may have been disengaged and left sitting idle for a period of time. Temperatures and weather patterns have shifted in many areas showing signs of seasonal changes. Heating controls needed during the earlier months are now being switched to the cooling position in response to warmer spring temperatures.
• Building grounds and premises may have collected debris from an occasional thunderstorm, and parking lots may show new cracks or potholes from winter ice and snow that has long since dissipated.
• Water may have made its way inside the building due to a potential leak or condensation, thereby leading to an increased risk of slip and fall. Void of routine, recent shipments and new deliveries may create unexpected hazards or unintentionally block emergency exits.

Simply put, there is a lot of preparation and diligence that goes into ensuring employees and customers can be welcomed back safely and responsibly after a building has been closed for an extended period of time. This is where expert resources can help.

It is necessary to ensure the building’s interior, exterior and grounds are acceptable and safe for people to return. All systems must be functional, including HVAC, electrical and plumbing. Likewise, life safety systems must be in good working order. For example, fire extinguishers must be readily available; alarm and sprinkler systems must be fully functional; and pathways to emergency exits must be clear and the doors unlocked.

At Sedgwick, we are partnering with our clients each and every day in developing their back-to-business plans and strategies. Getting back to business may be a challenge, but we will continue to share resources to help you along the way. To learn more, read the pre-opening site inspection services flyer or listen to my podcast on this topic. Let’s move forward, together.