Will Microsoft return-to-office strategy set an example?

“Reaching this stage allows us to fully open our facilities to employees, visitors and guests,” says Chris Capossela, executive vice president and chief marketing officer. “We’re pleased to be joining other area businesses welcoming back more employees in the coming weeks.”

High vaccination rates

The COVID-19 situation in the area and community vaccination rate are among the top factors Microsoft considered in determining if the worksite is ready to fully open, says Capossela.

He notes that as of Feb. 8, 83.8 per cent of eligible King County residents – where most of the Washington state employees live – have completed their vaccine series, and 91.6 per cent have received at least one dose.

“These high vaccination rates, along with declining hospitalizations and deaths in the state, are part of what enables us to move to this stage of our hybrid work journey. In addition, we ensure that established local testing solutions are in place and that we’re aligned to all government guidance for businesses like ours,” says Capossela.

In the U.S., as many states, and employers, are lifting mandates more and more each day, some are asking the question, is it time to lift all COVID-19 safety measures?