The outbreak of COVID-19, the disease caused by the novel coronavirus, has brought the world to a halt. And while over the past couple of weeks, we’ve all learned to adapt to our new normal, the effects we have felt – and will continue to feel as the situation evolves – are real.

To slow the spread of this fast-moving virus, state and federal officials have taken several steps to minimize interpersonal contact, such as setting social distancing and self-quarantine guidelines, among other workplace restrictions. Within the construction industry, the results of these mandates have had a noticeable impact on the way we continue to carry on with our work.

How Commercial Construction Gets Done During a Pandemic

As with every project we complete, the health and safety of everyone involved is always our top priority. Given the unique circumstances we are all under during this pandemic, however, we at Seacoast Construction are taking several additional steps to ensure the ongoing safety of our workers, clients, vendors, subcontractors, and the community at-large.

Some of the biggest short-term effects COVID-19 has had on the industry include the slowing of work on current projects to account for increased safety precautions as well as limiting any interior work that requires interpersonal interaction.

Additional short-term effects of COVID-19 on commercial construction in South Florida include:

• Ensuring that we abide by any local government mandates and curfews as they arise. We know the situation will continue to evolve, and with that the possibility for further project delays due to the ability (or inability) to work, conduct site inspections or review plans.
• Halting work on interior projects that require us to interact or coexist with people outside of the construction area.
• Limiting the amount of trades that can occupy the projects at any given time.
• Providing hand wash stations where none are available.
• Ensuring the health and safety of all construction personnel. If anyone shows signs of flu- or cold-like symptoms, they will be kindly asked to go home and will only be allowed back if they have been cleared by a physician and provide the appropriate documentation.

On the flip side, we have been able to carry on with much of our work as per usual, including:

• Continuing work on remodeling projects that are isolated from the balance of existing buildings.
• Continuing exterior project work such as paving, exterior lighting and new structures.
• Continuing to work on projects that are isolated from the public, such as those that already have construction barrier fences with lockable gates that only allow construction personnel to work.

Undeniably, the way we work is changing and with that comes the potential for short-term delays, but what hasn’t changed and will not change is our commitment to our clients and community.

This is a challenging time for all of us, and the safety of our clients, staff, and subcontractors is paramount. If you have any questions – or would like to adjust our measures to better match your needs – please don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re going to get through this together.