Discussion Thread

  • 1.  New Normal in the Workplace

    Posted 07-12-2020 01:51 PM
    Hello Fellow Civil Engineers,

    As some states begin to reopen I wanted to start a thread discussing what people think the "New Normal"  in the industry will be. 

    What are some work policies that companies and people should continue to embrace as some companies and cities begin to reopen?

    • Do you think that a hybrid work choice (working from home once or twice a week) is something that companies should consider implementing?
    • Do you think events should have a virtual option?   
    • What are some policies your company has implemented that you'd like to share?
    Please see this informational video of "Preparing for the "New Normal" in the Workplace" that was discussed in May. This video helps gain some insight to see how the New Normal has changed since two months ago.

    Looking forward to your thoughts,
    Daniel

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    Daniel Bressler EIT, A.M.ASCE
    Junior Engineer, NY
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  • 2.  RE: New Normal in the Workplace

    Posted 07-13-2020 11:06 AM
    As some states reopen strict measures must be applied. 


    For construction companies, virtual working can't work perfectly, but it is easy to observe personal distancing. In such a way that in site, machine operators can be in their respective machines performing their task. Admin and some other staff who have no tasks on site can work virtually or three times a week as the case may be.

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    Agomuo Akachukwu Chibueze S.M.ASCE
    Civil Engineering
    Owerri
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  • 3.  RE: New Normal in the Workplace

    Posted 07-13-2020 02:41 PM
    I think one of the most important things is flexibility. There is a lot of data being updated, local conditions can change quickly, and most future planning is shaky at best.
    Both company leadership and employees have to be ready for necessary policy changes as we react to the ever-changing situation.

    Hybrid work options may help with implementing social distancing within an office space by reducing the number of people in the space on any given day.

    Virtual events can help those that maybe are higher risk or are are in contact with someone that is higher risk still participate. I think trying to maintain a sense of inclusion can help reduce feelings of isolation. 

    Our CEO has been sending out updates every week or two on policy and recommendations. One recent policy that I appreciate is that if anyone goes to a large event or travels where they are in contact with people who are not social distancing or following other CDC guidelines, they are asked to work from home upon their return for a week or two. Making a policy like that upfront lets us know the expectations, and it makes the people that sit around those employees grateful to know that their health is a priority.

    Another thing I think companies need to keep in mind that have multiple locations is that conditions may vary across locations. What works in a suburban location may not work in downtown Chicago or NYC. Different office locations may have drastically different methods of commuting (car, bike, train, bus), varying office spaces (only tenant, 20th floor of a sky scraper, etc), and inconsistent local regulations.

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    Heidi Wallace EI,P.E.,M.ASCE
    P.E.
    Tulsa OK
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