Office reopening strategies don’t include mandated vaccinations

A successful vaccine rollout has made it possible for companies to begin planning office reopenings, but it won’t necessarily have an immediate impact on return-to-work strategies.

Eighty-two percent of employers have communicated the value of the COVID vaccine to their teams, and nearly half have implemented programs to boost vaccinations. Still, 72% of employers do not plan to require proof of inoculation for employees who are returning to the workplace, according to a new survey by Willis Towers Watson.

“While the lessons of COVID-19 are still unfolding, employers have already learned the ability to adapt and be flexible is essential,” said Dr. Jeff Levin-Scherz, population health leader at Willis Towers Watson in a release. “By keeping abreast of the latest developments, employers can continue to play a vital role in boosting vaccination while also creating the safest workplaces possible.”

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Employers may not be requiring inoculation, but they are finding ways to encourage it, the survey found. More than half are performing or considering onsite or near-site vaccine administration for employees, 62% are providing or considering providing pay for time spent getting vaccinated and two in 10 respondents are offering or considering providing financial incentives for getting vaccinated.

A simple — and equally safe — approach may be to continue enforcing the current prevention measures of masks, distance, air quality and hygiene for everyone, according to Mary Kay O’Neill, a partner and clinical services consultant at asset management company Mercer.

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Presently, 93% of employers require masks to be worn at least in common areas, according to a recent survey by Mercer. It is a regulation that employers will continue to apply to both vaccinated and unvaccinated workers, according to Willis Tower Watson’s data.

“Taking various approaches and using clear, targeted communications about the importance of vaccination will enable employers to protect employees, their families and the community,” Dr. Levin-Scherz said. “It will also help speed the transition to a post-pandemic future.”