New York refuses to work remotely: tens of thousands will return to offices in May

As vaccinations continue to gain momentum in New York City, municipal workers are preparing to physically return to their jobs - and will begin doing so starting May 3, in line with a new directive announced by the city's Mayor Bill de Blasio on Tuesday, March 23. Writes about it NY Daily News.

The mayor's plan applies to approximately 80 city employees who work in offices. It does not require proof of vaccination against COVID-000, but includes provisions on social distancing and wearing masks.

“We're going to do it safely, but we need our urban workers to return to their offices where they can do whatever they can to help their fellow countrymen,” de Blasio said. "It will also send a powerful signal that this city is moving forward."

There are over 3,4 million vaccinations in New York to date, and de Blasio wants 5 million New Yorkers to be fully vaccinated by June. With the federal government expected to increase vaccine doses by April, achieving that goal seems more likely than it was just a month ago, when doses were much lower.

Accelerating vaccinations in the city will make the shift from telecommuting to personal work easier and less risky, but returning workers will still need to take precautions. According to the mayor, as of Tuesday, March 23rd, about 80% of city workers showed up for their jobs because most city workers are considered frontline workers.

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“Many people who get vaccinated will return to work, and there will be those who do not,” said de Blasio. "But the approach will focus on distance, ventilation and other tools to keep people safe."

According to his plan, ventilation systems will be adjusted to “maximize the flow of outside air,” surfaces will be regularly cleaned in accordance with Department of Health standards, and workers will be provided with protective masks.

Laura Anglin, deputy mayor of de Blasio, tried to clarify whether masks would be encouraged in the workplace or required.

“If an employee cannot distance himself from society, he will have to wear a mask,” she said.

The city will also take into account the adjustments in the schedule of workers and students that have appeared in connection with the pandemic.

“We will work in a checkerboard pattern,” Anglin said. - By alternating between employees working in the office or remotely, we can guarantee comfortable working conditions. This way there will be enough space to ensure safety. "

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In recent days, de Blasio has criticized Governor Cuomo for opening fitness classes, as they, unlike office work, require increased breathing.

The mayor also said that unions will be actively involved in the opening process. However, as of March 23, DC 37, the largest municipal workers' union in the city, still hasn't received opening details.

“We already know what happens when we're not ready: too many workers die unnecessarily. We cannot repeat the mistakes of the past, ”said DC 37 CEO Henry Garrido. “If the mayor wants more city workers back, he has to work with us to get things done right. We need a guarantee that there will be masks, personal protective equipment and regular disinfection. "