While planning for different scenarios is important in any building project, no one could have planned for the one we are all living in today. With so many unknowns, it is now more important than ever for clients to be able to trust their partners to do their due diligence and plan ahead.
So what are some of the things that they can be doing? Here are our Three P’s of Building During a Pandemic.
Prepare: Prepare for delays, changes, and potentially a longer than normal schedule. No one knows what things will look like in two months, six months, or a year, but regular communication with trade contractors and partners can help the team get a better grasp on where and when they can expect those delays and plan accordingly.
Plan: Plan for high levels of site safety and cleanliness during the construction process. While job sites will look and operate differently for the foreseeable future, there are steps you can take to ensure everyone feels comfortable. Frequent cleaning, having masks available, and hand washing stations (hand sanitizer if washing stations are not available), are all steps in the right direction.
Prevent: Prevent any fear or discomfort of safety practices through regular and transparent communication. Having a COVID-19 Safety and Communication Plan that is accessible and upheld is important. Knowing where everyone stands and allowing openness in conversation will translate into a mutual respect for everyone’s boundaries and a successful project overall.
Preparing, planning, and preventing are just a few of the steps that can be taken in order to provide a great building experience and successful project outcome in the midst of the current climate. Beyond building, the most important thing to remember is that every individual is experiencing this pandemic in a different way. It is essential to extend empathy and understanding to those around us during a time of many unknowns.