It’s been three years since the COVID-19 pandemic hit the U.S. and changed the world as we know it. Politics, travel, sports, entertainment and social relationships saw a massive shift, and the workplace was not exempt from it. While some offices might be going “back to normal” after three years, there are some practices that will remain permanent in many workplaces.  

Emphasis on Safety 

Workplace safety agency OSHA has been more scrupulous in safety precautions. While prior to the pandemic the biggest safety concern was in warehouses or construction sites, now offices are also on radar.  

Remote and Hybrid Work 

The number of remote workers has increased significantly since 2020, from 6 to 26 percent. Over 66 percent of workers are part-time remote or hybrid, according to Zippia.  

Mandatory Vaccines 

Many places of employment are requiring their workers to be vaccinated against the COVID-19 virus. While this could lead to labor shortages, having to fire noncomplying workers or even lawsuits, it could possibly set a precedent for future pandemics.  

Worker Empowerment 

Due to a vast amount of labor shortages from the pandemic and the ‘Great Resignation’ job applicants might have the upper hand. In order to retain talent, some places of employment are offering incentives like unlimited PTO and four-day work weeks.  

Employee Wellbeing 

Lots of employees have faced mental health struggles over the pandemic. Employers are placing an emphasis on mental wellness and providing accommodation requests in order to have healthier employees.  

Read more about how the workplace changed over the pandemic on the website Fisher Phillips.

Five ways how COVID changed the workplace.

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