Re-entry
As we quickly approach the end of summer, schools potentially set to re-open, to some degree, and businesses contemplate how to bring the work force back into the work place, the questions we will be hearing is, "Is it safe?"
Much like sustainability the answer is as much about communication as it as about actual actions to protect those re-entering. Most facility managers are good stewards of their properties and look out for the well being of others, but they almost always do a poor job of communicating just what they are doing to safeguard that well being.
One of the most common recommendations for re-entry is around air exchanges. A relatively quick audit should be able to reveal compliance with ASHREA 62.200, the ASHREA standard for acceptable indoor air quality. While planning this evaluation, give thought around the reassurance that third party verification may provide. Keep in mind that your building confidence.
Another common recommendation is around filtration, specifically that you have a maintenance program that identifies and exchanges filters at manufacturer recommended intervals, or that performs pressure drop testing for optimal timing.
Both of these recommendations are really not new, they are elements of a regular preventative maintenance program. Again, we tend to be good stewards by having such programs in place, but we tend to not communicate with our stakeholders the value that these programs provide.
Another example of best practices already in place is third party performance certification. From LEED to Energy Star, most third party certifications around building energy consumption include indoor air quality elements and specifically minimum ventilation for acceptable indoor air quality. That theme of third party verification shows itself again here, someone else verifying that your doing what you say your doing - confidence building.
New to the scene are Covid specific third party verifications, including Fitwel's Viral Response (expected to be out in August), WELL Building's Health-Safety Rating for Facility Operations and Management, and Arc Re-entry. All three third party programs are designed to prepare spaces for safe re-entry and build stakeholder confidence.
Other non-energy related considerations include an evaluation of cleaning procedures, hygiene, barriers, equipment and space use as well as how shared spaces will be utilized. Establishing a Re-Entry task force that includes multiple disciplines may assist in ensuring all stakeholder needs are met, particularly for these more operational elements. Such teams may include human resources, legal, facilities, safety as well as representatives from significant departments. Similarly, tenants may be included in multi-tenant office buildings and resident representatives in multi-family properties. These strategy elements are beyond the scope of this essay.
Once you have developed the strategy, some thought needs to go towards communication of that strategy to building occupants, visitors, and ownership. This may include signage, email and other communications platforms such as elevator signage, etc.
Finally, as you consider re-entry, remember you are not alone. You don't need to reinvent the wheel. There are consultants and industry experts that can not only help you design your re-entry program but also help you certify it and build confidence in your re-entry program.
Be well.