Technology For The Future Of Offices

Technology companies are marketing new tools and software to help organizations bring their employees back into the office. In order to do so, companies need to ensure that their workspaces are equipped with the right technology to provide workers safe, clean workspaces that emphasize the well-being of workers.

For instance, UK-based robotics firm Tharsus has developed wearable technology that helps workers with distancing. The necklace will alert the user every time they are in close proximity to another worker.

Contact-tracing apps have also been considered to be a part of reopening plans for companies and government. The apps use Bluetooth or location data to let users know if they have potentially been exposed to the virus. However, these apps have faced criticism from privacy advocates who believe they can be too invasive.

Thermal cameras have also increased in popularity as a way to identify what a person’s body temperature is. For example, Vodafone has deployed heat detection cameras that can be used in office entry areas to determine whether occupants have a healthy temperature.

“The data it gathers is only relevant at that particular point in time,” said Anne Sheehan, director of Vodafone Business U.K. “The device doesn’t include technologies such as facial recognition and it cannot be used as a tracking device.”

To maintain cleanliness and hygiene, lighting company Signify hopes to provide UV lights to disinfect surfaces in offices, school, restrooms and more.