---

IBEC demands quicker timeline on return to offices

Business group IBEC has called for more clarity from the Government on the reopening of workplaces, saying the timeline must be reviewed to reflect the lower risk of COVID-19, as a result of the vaccine programme.

Chief executive Danny McCoy said this meant a potentially earlier gradual return to offices than the previously suggested September target.

The call comes after the Government on Friday published updated guidance for employers on issues such as masks, testing, ventilation and vaccination.

IBEC has also published a survey of 370 organisations, which shows that businesses are beginning their preparations for a gradual return to workplaces in the coming weeks and months.

“Clarity from Government on the timing of graduated workplace reopening is now key for companies in order to reignite collaboration, culture and confidence in their workforce,” said Mr McCoy.

Vaccination rollout

The IBEC survey shows that almost 30% of firms will plan their return to the workplace in line with Government advice and the finalisation of the vaccination rollout.

A similar proportion expect to return in September, while just over 20% of organisations expect to be fully back in the workplace within the next three months.

Four-fifths of the organisations surveyed say they will operate a hybrid model of remote and on-site work when their offices reopen. Just 15% will ask all staff to return onsite fully, and 4% will keep staff remote working on a full-time basis.

Almost three-quarters of companies say hybrid working will increase in their organisations over the next two to three years.

Mr McCoy said these trends highlighted the need for “increased ambition” in delivering the necessary infrastructure — such as childcare facilities and better broadband.

“First and foremost, Government must outline to organisations how and when they can begin efforts to gradually return their staff safely to the office,” he said, adding that a return to office work was also vital to preserve the future of many urban businesses that relied on office workers for their survival.

The survey also showed that half of respondents planned to limit business travel initially, with just under 20% saying that they would do this indefinitely.

Staggered teams

And 45% of firms will stagger employee teams to ensure social distancing for a period, while 18% will do this indefinitely.

Only 5% of firms plan to initially provide antigen testing for employees, but 18% intend to provide temperature testing for workers for a period, with 17% saying they will do this indefinitely.

The figure for firms who will require employees to be fully vaccinated before returning to work is below 5%.