Products For a Clean Office
Solutions for making my workplace safe, yet friendly, functional and efficient...that's what we'd like to do as we return to our "normal" work environment. And, maybe, just maybe, your "normal" work environment has changed during this Covid-19 season...so let's discuss solutions for your new environment, as well.
95% of your focus is going to be about trying to create a barrier...to protect you and others. But what is the best material to use? That question simply relies on how long you plan on using it, how often you think you'll need to clean it, and what do you want it to look like in your work environment?
Glass will always be the #1 choice for absolute cleanliness and a beautiful, refreshing aesthetic. It is non-porous, anti-bacterial, anti-viral, scratch resistant, and extremely durable, plus you can use color to make it stand out! Look at adding glass dividers, glass writing surfaces (instead of dry-erase or porcelain), and even glass covered work surfaces. You'll be surprised at the options you'll have with glass!
Acrylic is another choice, but one that is typically a shorter-term commitment. Acrylic will work, but quickly scratches or clouds with repeated chemical cleaning, and it is expected to be thrown away when no longer in use. Is it less expensive? Yes, but it isn't a great solution for the environment (it can't be recycled), and after continual use, it diminishes the aesthetic of a room...it ends up "looking" dirty or "germy", even though it may have been cleaned.
Fiber or cloth barriers abound! Some are anti-microbial, and obviously more expensive, while some are inexpensive yet require time and effort to be cleaned with simple solutions of alcohol or bleach (be sure you read the manufacturer's care and instructions!). Fiber and cloth are truly "barriers" because they block vision and can create privacy, so keep in mind the purpose and function you will require. Happily, many fiber and cloth barriers can be repurposed easily for creating quiet "retreats" or setting up collaboration areas and backdrops for block distractions during video conference meetings.
Lastly, returning to work may mean re-configuring offices and office furniture...spreading them farther apart or facing them in different directions. What about solutions that would allow you to quickly reconfigure an office or meeting area, even daily? Nobody knows what the new office configurations will ultimately be, and maybe they will be constantly changing as we become more and more aware of our environment and its impact on our health and productivity.
(Nook - mobile work environments for acoustics and privacy)
(Nook - mobile work environments for acoustics and privacy)
To our future...one of constant change. Either be frustrated with it, or embrace it, but either way, get used to it!
Need ideas and suggestions for your specific space? Contact TBI for a review and more information to help you make informed decisions on moving forward, safely!
Post contributed by: Treavor Allen with Crane Reps, Representing Leading Manufacturers in Office Space Design and Functionality