We have all been thinking about the legacy that COVID-19 will leave us. This is a bit strange to think about right now because we are currently living in the moment to keep our families, and coworker’s safe, navigating Zoom technology to stay connected with family, friends and clients, and also trying to manage work, finances or the lack thereof.
However, there will come a time in the near future where things will start to get back to a new kind of normal, and then what? How do we gather in our workplaces without fear, gather at our favorite restaurants, or attend sporting events or concerts?
What’s Next?
Many of the solutions to these challenges will be for Architects and Engineers to solve as we create spaces and systems that have a direct influence on how we will live, work and play in the post COVID world. We will be challenged to design safer, healthier and flexible buildings that respond to these needs. Hospitals, businesses, and even our houses will likely require some rethinking and creative solutions as we look to the future normal.
What Do We Already Have?
We look forward to sharing solutions to these challenges in future posts, but for now we thought we’d share some simple inexpensive products and technologies that are readily available and can be integrated into your workplace or home.
- Occupancy sensors to control lighting
- Touch free plumbing fixtures.
- Voice activated controls for elevators
- Proximity reading devices for locks and door latches.
Larger more promising technologies are being further developed to sanitize spaces
- UV light to clean hospitals rooms and Laboratories and HVAC systems.
- LED disinfecting lighting.
- Hydrogen peroxide sanitizers
It’s comforting knowing technology like this already exists. This global pandemic is only going to expedite the need and desire for a more touchless experience.
For now, please wash your hands, continue to social distance, wear your mask, and stay safe.
For me right now the most difficult thing is not being able to hug my family members or friends. If someone has a solution for that please share.
