The impact of COVID-19 has been undeniably massive. It has changed the way stores and companies do business. In particular, offices have been forced to enact changes to continue operating. It’s either they adopt teleworking arrangements if applicable or institute rigorous safety protocols to protect employees and customers.
The following are arguably the most important office supplies that should always be in stock for companies that continue their brick and mortar operations while the pandemic is still ongoing.
Table of Contents
Face Masks
Not all offices provide free face masks to their employees. However, it is advisable to have them in stock always. Some employees may forget their masks, so it is convenient to have some available for them to buy at cost. The health of everyone in the company should be a top priority. One infection is enough to shut down a business temporarily.
Also, it is advantageous to have masks ready whenever there are meetings with clients or potential customers. In some places, face shields may also be required, so it would be a good idea to have them in stock.
Disinfectants
Most offices already have disinfectants such as rubbing alcohol and hand sanitizers ready. In the time of COVID-19, it is imperative to have them in ample supplies. Again, they do not have to be given out for free. They just need to be available as part of the safety protocols. Also, disinfectants that are intended for shared use should be in containers that make them easy to dispense.
Physical Distancing Signs and Accessories
Virtually all governments require businesses to set up protocols to enforce physical distancing. In line with this policy, it is important to have relevant signs and accessories. These can be produced as DIY projects, but they can also be purchased. Many stores online sell them.
Antimicrobial Counter Pens
Service-oriented businesses like banks are usually expected to have pens ready for the use of employees or customers. It is not advisable to have anything for shared use, so it is more prudent to have cheap pens that can be easily disposed of or given away to the first and last user. In some cases, it may be acceptable to have antimicrobial counter pens.
Data Storage Devices
Ideally, offices should be using cloud storage and applications. Data should be digitalized and sent through the internet. However, it is inevitable to necessitate offline data storage and transmission. That’s why it is important to have DVDs and flash drives available. They are inexpensive, but it may be difficult to obtain them when public activities are being restrained.
Paper and Ink/Toner
Even in the era of digitalization, almost all offices and workplaces still use paper. Most businesses still have the need to print documents on paper. Companies should avoid running out of these essential supplies.
Operating a business in the midst of a raging pandemic is extremely difficult. As such, it is essential to be prepared. Not needing to rush the purchase of important office supplies is something every business manager or owner needs to remember.