Distancing at Reopened Offices Will Mean Logistical Challenges

Businesses are considering all scenarios for their tentative back-to-work to plans—temperature checks, mask requirements, and even elevator policies. But can more than one worker ride up in an elevator car at the same time during the pandemic?

Safety Issues: Elevators compliant with federal accessibility laws should allow a six foot distance between workers in an elevator, but it’s a tight fit. The elevator conundrum raises a number of other questions for employers, like what to do about recommended ventilation. Periodic cleaning is another issue.

Lengthy Lines: Workers will likely be queuing up to get on the elevator. Businesses will have ...