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Workplace Re-Entry 101: Why choose green buildings as your next office

As many industries move to expedite their recovery from the severe impacts of COVID-19, the inevitable return to the office has been a point of concern. Globally, sustainable developments have been recognized as a key contributor in helping more companies transition back to the post-lockdown world.

The World Economic Forum believes that a green recovery must be kickstarted. Apart from having access to healthier food or improved social mobility, sustainability is a much more resilient approach in planning infrastructure found in our cities and neighborhood. It is ideal to start constructing better structures or refurbishing existing ones for a greener space given its holistic benefits.

According to the World Green Building Council, green buildings could help in the fight against COVID-19 or any public health emergencies through two key elements: prevention and control. These estates go beyond the minimum health protocols of physical distancing and isolation through its building based measures.

Pushing for sustainable spaces cover the basics of community management, disinfection, environmental cleaning, access to medical assistance, and ventilation. Most green buildings feature natural ventilation, improved indoor air quality and filtration, and efficient waste management. It can also employ It Destination-oriented allocation system elevators and include biophilic design to their overall workplace design.

For LEED-accredited buildings, the efficiency of water, air, and energy systems are prioritized and monitored beyond cost or responding to the concerns brought about by the pandemic. As a pre-certified Silver LEED building, JEG Tower @ One Acacia has made sure that its Heat, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system are sealed even during construction. It also installed the MERV-13 filter to further protect the health of the occupants and the environment they work in.

As more buildings move to highlight their health performance, other developments add UV-C sanitation measures to their office or commercial amenities and fixtures. In Cebu, JEG Tower also takes notes of key disinfection measures dedicated to common areas such as the bathrooms. The building is equipped with the most-hygienic hand dryers that have HEPA filters and anti-bacterial additives to avoid contamination in their spaces.

Countless smart technology can be used to offer premium green offices. According to the Singapore Green Building Council, taking advantage of innovative systems, buildings will be able to adjust to the post-COVID-19 environment with improved safety and sustainability. This can be seen in sensor-enabled entry through automatic doors, self-check thermal scanners, and foot handles that can be utilized for a touchless or contactless experience that adds inherent protection to these spaces.

Beyond the investment in physical health and better working environments, patronizing a green recovery will also help boost the economy. According to the World Bank, it can bring more jobs in the short term and consistent growth in the long run as investing in natural capital, resource efficiency, and sustainable and clean energy production have a higher economic multiplier.

The shift to sustainability will definitely provide better opportunities to transition better to the new normal and grow a healthier community, safer spaces, and a much more resilient economy globally.

Looking to expand or locate to a green building? Contact Lorenzo Rodriguez at +63 917 825 6884 or send an email to lorenzo.rodriguez@kmcmaggroup.com to discuss your options.

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Well & Green: How JEG Tower @ One Acacia delivers the best workplace in Cebu

The inevitable anxiety of returning to the workplace amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic becomes more pressing recently. More companies are looking to locate in premium offices that are safe and conducive for working without losing sight of occupants’ health and wellness.  

A more sustainable approach to building construction has paved the way for making this possible. Going green is typically tied to being environmentally friendly. According to the World Green Building, real estate and construction are the top industries responsible for 39% of global energy-related carbon emissions. 

With the Net Zero initiative aiming for decarbonization by 2025, JEG Tower @ One Acacia goes beyond sustainable as it seeks to pandemic-proof its spaces with building-based prevention and control measures that benefit both the environment and the workforce. As one of the LEED buildings in Cebu, the tower is built from recyclable construction materials from steel to cement made from coal-fire powerplant waste.  

Beyond the green aspect, it takes on the responsibility of ensuring that its immediate community is safe by adhering to minimum public health standards, physical distancing, disinfection, and biophilic design. 

RELATED: Pushing Sustainable Offices: Leveraging smart technology for safety, productivity 

JEG Tower has focused on pivoting the evolving needs of the workplace in the post-lockdown business landscape. Through the intelligent utilization of technology, automatic sliding doors have been installed in the main entrance for touchless access to the building. 

Thermal scanners in the tower are wired and can automatically take your temperature through a sensor without assistance. In place of contact tracing efforts, employees will use the free-standing scanners by the main entry point while guests must get their temperature through a tabletop scanner available in the reception area where they will also be asked to register. 

Understanding the risk of infection in common areas where most people often congregate, JEG Tower @ One Acacia has added anti-bacterial fixtures and above standards filtration to minimize risks. MERV-13 filtration has been installed to complement its energy-efficient Heat, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system to improve indoor air quality and sanitation.  

Frequent handwashing is also encouraged as the building’s bathrooms are equipped with the best and fastest hand dryers to date. Accredited by the NSF and HACCP International, the Dyson Airblade is recognized as the fastest and most hygienic due to its built-in HEPA filters, anti-bacterial additive, and touch-free operation. 

RELATED: The Future of Workplace: Contactless features and smart technology 

Employing Airblade technology is also low on energy consumption and is environmentally friendly as it records up to 79% less CO2 and up to 76% less in paper towel use. True to its commitment to being an iconic green estate, it also allocated ample space to its Material Recycling Facility and has amply situated 5 recycling bins for paper, cardboard, plastic, metal, and glass. 

Moreover, according to the Singapore Green Building Council’s in-depth research, biophilia and views are one of the top seven facets often associated to a green and healthy office. JEG Tower @ One Acacia uses this concept to upgrade the working environment by designing spaces that allow for maximum views and natural light. It also features a green roof that can help reduce stress and encourage sociability and movement.  

Explore your premium office options in Cebu. Contact Michael Glindro at (+63) 917-584-0443 or send an email to mike.g@kmcmaggroup.com. 

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Championing Sustainability: How JEG Tower gives back to Cebu workforce

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought about a shift in priorities around the world. Its impacts have been far-reaching and have affected multiple sectors and industries. In Philippine real estate, current developments or estates have been quick to rethink the commercial and office spaces that they are offering.  

Traditionally, the office is seen as a place of work where the employees are usually measured by the output produced. As the pandemic persists, the clear line that divides work and life blurs and so a more efficient integration is required.  

According to experts, integration is all about synergy, not trade-offs. The same mindset can then be applied to the building of sustainable yet premium spaces that fosters a productive environment without sacrificing public safety and wellness.  

JEG Tower @ One Acacia envisions a workplace in Cebu that puts its occupants’ health as its top priority. JDC has taken a holistic approach in ensuring that employees feel taken care of by providing them a space that is designed to respond to their need for protection not only physically but mentally.  

RELATED: Sustainable Design: Impacts to New Normal and Climate Change   

As one of the main proponents of sustainability in the metro, JEG Tower @ One Acacia prides itself as one of the leading LEED buildings that used environmentally friendly materials with recyclable content in its steel bars, glass, and solar reflective paint. It is also equipped with efficient and cost-saving energy, water, and waste systems that significantly lowers its carbon footprint and avoids other hazards posed to its immediate community.   

Keeping people in mind, JEG Tower has since upgraded its facilities to successfully navigate and secure the post-lockdown business landscape. Indoor air quality is improved through the installation of a state-of-the-art MERV-13 filtration system that effectively prevents viral transmission.  

RELATED: Getting ahead of the curve: ‘Disease proofing’ the new normal workplace  

Safer re-entry to the office is also guaranteed through the placement of thermal scanners and minimizing touchpoints through automatic doors and sensor-enabled fixtures in common areas such as elevators and restrooms. In compliance with strict social distancing protocols, JEG Tower also utilizes Destination Oriented Allocation System (DOAS) technology in their elevators to prevent the usual congestion by efficiently managing car allocation reduce wait and travel time.   

The rise of the outdoor office  

Workplace designers are also recommending the introduction of biophilic elements in these evolving spaces. Experts say that nature is truly beneficial to both productivity and wellness. Gensler Chicago’s Managing Director Todd Heiser added that spaces with high levels of choice, variety, and balance deliver an excellent experience at work.   

Beyond stress reduction, biophilic spaces outdoors are generally known to be inspiring. Steelcase Vice President Allan Smith said that it is also proven to enhance well-being. support hospitality and expand the workplace ecosystem to inspire creative collaboration further.   

RELATED: The Importance of Biophilic Design in a Post-Lockdown Office  

According to TIME, accessibility and quality of green spaces also matter in ensuring satisfaction and improving the human experience. In the Netherlands, residents reportedly better mental health and more emotional attachment when exposed to quality greenery.  

JEG Tower @ One Acacia has also integrated biophilic elements into their spaces. It dedicated 20% of the estate to greenspaces and features a unique green roof for recreational activities that encourage employee movement and sociability.  

Looking for a safe workplace post-lockdown? Reach out to Lorenzo Rodriguez at (+63) 917-825-6884 or email your inquiry to lorenzo.rodriguez@kmcmaggroup.com.   

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JEG Tower @ One Acacia Showroom: What to expect?

As the completion of JEG Tower @ One Acacia gets nearer, potential building occupiers and office lessees can have a more realistic view and feel of how their workspace could look like through the building’s showroom.

Located on the tower’s 7th floor, the showroom will feature and demonstrate some of the reasons why you should consider locating your business at the best workplace in Cebu City.

JEG Development Corporation’s first high-rise venture has implemented sustainable design for all its office spaces. As one of the newest premium green buildings in Cebu, the office spaces at the JEG Tower elevate the human experience by promoting their health, wellness, and safety without compromising the condition and wellbeing of the planet. Each office unit aims to maximize benefits for the occupants’ well-being and improve their work performance and output.

 JEG Tower’s offices utilize the Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) air conditioning system that is more energy efficient and provides better indoor air quality for the building tenants. According to technical reports and ratings, this type of air conditioning system can reduce energy costs by up to 30 percent or more. VRF also has the potential to deliver long-term savings for building occupiers. 

Office tenants can also enjoy Cebu City’s captivating views from their workstations provided by the large windows on each unit. Larger windows are more ideal in a workplace environment as it allows maximum natural lighting for the employees’ comfort and health. Numerous studies have found that exposure to daylight and access to natural views improve employees’ moods and boost their morale. They are also found to be more productive if they are working in a setting with ideal and ample lighting.

JEG Tower’s bathrooms will also utilize innovative fixtures that conserve water and promote reduced water usage. The building’s greenspaces are also maintained by water efficient landscaping that ensures minimal water waste.

Watch out for JEG Tower @ One Acacia’s showroom updates soon! For site viewings, contact Lorenzo Rodriguez at (+63) 917-825-6884 or send an email to jegtower@kmcmaggroup.com. You may also call us at (+63) 2-8403-5519.

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The Importance of Biophilic Design in a Post-Lockdown Office

The future of the workplace is now being shaped by the pandemic and its implications on health, socialization, and the ideal office set up for its occupiers’ security and safety. Many are proposing that a biophilic may be the most ideal workplace design in a post-pandemic era. A biophilic office became on-trend to ‘bring the outside in’. Biophilic offices aim to increase the connection between people and nature by incorporating natural elements through texture, scenery, and lighting into the actual workspace.

In the previous years, the shift towards promoting a greener space in the office has been greatly campaigned for. Studies find that incorporating biophilic design has a positive effect on the employees’ productivity, mood, and health. In fact, workplace strategists have reported that office spaces which introduce elements of nature have witnessed a decrease in the levels of mental fatigue among staff members and an increase in levels of workplace wellbeing.

RELATED: Building a ‘Biophilic’ Office: What is Biophilia and How can it Benefit your Business

Businesses prioritize the health and safety of their workforce as employees start coming back to the office amid the threats of the COVID-19 pandemic. More than strict precautionary measures protecting the physical health, employers should also cater to the emotional and mental well-being of their people.

Open Plan to Open Air

While many companies have resorted to shifting to a remote working scheme, others have slowly commenced their business re-entry strategies as lockdown restrictions ease. Moreover, employees believe that working from their homes is not really a viable long-term solution transitioning into the new normal. As the world adapts to the new ways dictated by the COVID-19 pandemic, the office evolves to attend to additional safety needs and requirements.

Frontrunners of a biophilic office argue that this office design will not only ensure the protection and safety of its occupiers, but it will also improve it as it addresses the overall wellness of people—from their physical to their psychosocial needs in the workplace. This should be given emphasis as ‘the boundaries between work and personal life are becoming more and more blurred’ given the different circumstances brought by the health crisis.

One of the simplest requirements for building a biophilic office is the introduction of plants and greenspaces within the work area. By introducing plants, either in pots or in the form of living green walls into the office environment, indoor air quality is improved as the vegetation can help in absorbing pollutants, toxins, and disease-carrying viruses. This can complement a building’s air filtration system that optimizes disease prevention.

Indoor air quality (IAQ) refers to the air quality within and around buildings and structures, related to the health and comfort of its occupants. Research has found that IAQ is two to five times worse than outdoor air quality. In fact, according to research by the US Joint Commission, 40 percent of all sickness absence is down to indoor air pollution or poor air quality.

One study has concluded that air filtration in the office as a response to the pandemic is very crucial in reducing transmission and cross infection within working environments.

READ MORE: JEG Tower Focus: MERV and Fresh Air System for Optimal Indoor Air Quality

Another study has confirmed that plants can remove harmful volatile organic compounds such as formaldehyde and benzene, which can be commonly found in paint, carpeting, and furniture of most buildings. Plants can also bring vapor back into the air and prevent dry air that irritates sensitive membranes in the nose and throat, making employees more susceptible to viruses and allergens.

Biophilic offices can also greatly impact the mental health and cognitive function of employees, especially as they face more stress and anxiety in the time of a pandemic. According to research, while physically being inside a confined space, biophilic features such as green space and access to natural lighting can help reduce stress, anger, and anxiety. It can also lead to improved self-esteem and a better image of self in the long run.

Gensler reported that being exposed to nature through a biophilic office can help foster a more positive outlook within the workspace. Exposing employees to natural light, refreshing views, and fresh indoor air can create a more harmonious and positive outlook in the office.

Moreover, employees who are exposed to natural daylight are more productive and inspired to complete tasks at hand. Scientifically, sunlight boosts the creation of the body’s melatonin that regulates the sleep-wake cycle of people, creating a positive impact on their energy levels.

Interior design consultant Lloyd Coldrick noted that workplace design has the power to change the state of mind. He said, “We are all highly sensitive to the behavioral cues embedded in our environments and unthinkingly adjust our mannerisms, mood, and body language as we adapt to our surroundings.”

Investing in an office apt for the new normal? Reach out to Michael Glindro and know more about JEG Tower @ One Acacia. Call him at (+63) 917-584-0443 or send an email to mike.g@kmcmaggroup.com. For inquiries, call us at (+63) 2-8403-5519 or email jegtower@kmcmagroup.com.

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Pushing Sustainable Offices: Leveraging smart technology for safety, productivity

Returning to a safer and smarter workplace has been a consideration for most businesses and locators in the Philippines. As the global struggle with the COVID-19 pandemic persists, the post-lockdown landscape is focusing on adopting technology and stringent measures to make sure that people and communities are not at risk in environments they frequent such as the office. 

A shift to a more sustainable and smart office is slowly becoming a main point of distinction. In the Philippines, experts say that majority are still likely to return to physical office spaces for certain operational needs such as spontaneous cross-collaboration, mentorship, and even socialization. 

Fostering a collaborative work environment is as important as keeping it safe. Investing in smart technology can ensure that businesses can still grow productivity and cultivate innovation amid the challenges posed by the public health crisis.  

The rise of automation 

Going contactless or touchless is one of the main features to consider for the smart office. Sensors, access cards, or recognition software can be utilized in the entry to and exit from the premises and its amenities. This will help reduce the risks of contamination and transmission in these spaces. 

In some buildings such as JEG Tower @ One Acacia, you can enter through automatic sliding doors, and scanning of QR codes will be implemented so employees and visitors can input their information in a hassle-free manner. In common area bathrooms, automatic faucets and flushing will be installed to make it hands-free or remove unnecessary surface contact. 

RELATED: JEG Tower Focus – Additional Safety Features for Disease Prevention 

More technology efficiency 

Beyond disease prevention, sustainability is supported by smart technology via more efficient use of energy. Elevators using Destination Oriented Allocation System is recommended as it helps reduce congestion at the halls via efficient authorization at security gates and optimum car allocation.  

As one of the premium LEED buildings in Cebu, JEG Tower is one of the spaces that focus on energy efficiency or the proper use of resources for the sake of the environment. This is not only impactful to the occupants of the building but also the Cebuano community as a whole.  

Improved Connection 

The gradual return of the workforce will demand better communication channels and connectivity. Beyond strong ICT infrastructure, smart offices should enable stable and streamlined communication within and outside the organization by availing hi-tech equipment, telco provisions, internet options, and use of software or apps that can support frequent digital communication and collaboration.    

RELATED: 5 Apps to Help You Get Through Working From Home 

Safer Conduct of Business  

With the ongoing pandemic, minimum public health standards and protocols are in place and should be followed. Prioritizing client and workforce wellbeing by digitizing key aspects of transactions and operations through the smarter use of technology will help guarantee customer satisfaction and employee retention.  

Utilizing digital tools or online-based platforms for virtual tours or contactless payment options will assure convenience and more security. In line with this, one can schedule site viewings to JEG Tower @ One Acacia and answer the mandated health declaration form online ahead of the visit. A 360 virtual showroom will also soon be available for easier viewing of their premium spaces. 

The pivot towards sustainability and pandemic-proofing the workplace goes beyond aesthetics. The value of spaces can be reliant on its ability to invest in the correct technology that will seek to protect the wellness of occupants without sacrificing business continuity or opportunities for expansion.

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Sustainable Design: Impacts to New Normal and Climate Change

As the country eases to a more relaxed quarantine status, many begin to look forward to the ‘new normal’. However, health experts remind that this transition is a gradual shift, given the transition would not occur at the flip of the switch. 

Different industries and business sectors have started employing various strategies to adapt to the changes brought by the pandemic. The real estate sector has undoubtedly been affected by COVID-19 in unprecedented ways, reshaping how developers and investors think about the design and purpose of buildings and establishments. 

Many developments are taking the opportunity to transform the design towards sustainability, prioritizing the health and wellness of their building occupiers and contributing less to environmental degradation. Transitioning to the ‘new normal’ opens a chance for developers and property owners to create spaces that are sanitary and sustainable in the long term, collectively making cities more efficient, safer, cleaner, and smarter. 

Post-Pandemic Office Makeovers 

Redesigning offices to prioritize sanitation and sustainability can result in healthier workspaces. Companies are investing in smart technology to ensure the safety and protection of its employees against various health hazards.  

To ensure minimized contact among occupants, a contactless or a low-touch office experience becomes the new standard. This includes limiting contact in operating certain equipment such as printer screens, elevator buttons, or door handles by replacing them with technology-enabled by sensors. Workplace strategists expect more automatic doors and screens to be more common to significantly remove the need for touching handles or pressing buttons.   

RELATED: The Future of Workplace: Contactless Features and Smart Technology 

New Normal Workplace Design  

Many argue that open office layouts will no longer be the trend in workplace design especially in the new normal. Some suggest that many businesses will resort back to the boxed and cubicle style office to ensure physical distancing among employees.   

However, since these changes will not be abrupt, companies are implementing a staggered seating plan which eradicates ‘elbow-to-elbow’ seating, and the use of shared desks and workstations. This would also result in newfound “openness” as companies reduce tables, chairs, and other office equipment that take up space.  

Some are utilizing a shifting workforce scheme that effectively reduces the number of employees inside the office during specific work hours, capping the in-office staff at 30 to 50 percent to maintain social distancing. 

Workplace strategists also suggest visual cues on floors and walls to ensure a safe six-feet buffer for every employee, regardless of whether they’re sitting at their desk or walking to the restroom.  

Sustainability in Construction for Disease Prevention 

The COVID-19 pandemic has also opened the discussion on the implications of building and construction to climate change and health. More than redesigning workplaces and implementing strategies, the real estate sector can contribute to disease prevention on a larger scale by building with the environment in mind.  

According to some studies, constructing buildings account for one-third of global greenhouse gas emissions and consume 40% of the world’s energy. It is also one of the largest sources of CO2 emissions which evidently cause a rampant rise in temperature that worsen climate condition. Research has linked this to the increased risk of pathogens being transmitted between animals and humans.  

Through sustainability and green real estate, buildings aim to use better materials and comply with construction methods that reduce the harmful effects on the environment. Alternative construction materials such as recycled steel, low e-glass, sheep’s wool, bamboo, and cork are beginning to be widely used. Copper is also becoming an alternative to iron construction materials since it is less hospitable to germs and disease-carrying viruses. 

Aside from construction materials, the design of a building also changes to prioritize health and sustainability. Ventilation systems are being reconfigured to flow air down from the ceiling rather than from the floor up. Larger windows are also becoming the standard to allow maximum daylight and reduce energy usage inside buildings. All these modifications are geared towards achieving long-term resiliency and mitigating any future physical or market shocks, together with the reduction of a building’s carbon footprint. 

These changes do not only prioritize the health and safety of employees inside buildings. These are also stringent measures that improve their happiness, motivation, and productivity inside the workspace. 

READ MORE: Employees working in LEED-certified buildings are Happier, Healthier, and More Productive 

The COVID-19 pandemic served as a timely reminder of the role of real estate in shaping the health of communities and impacting the environment. Given the opportunity to adapt and shift towards sustainability, buildings and developments should keep in mind that more people are in need and will demand a safer, healthier, and more sustainable environment. 

Learn more about sustainability in design and real estate. Contact Lorenzo Martin Rodriguez at (+63) 917-825-6884. You can also call us at (+63) 2-8403-5519 or send an email to jegtower@kmcmaggroup.com. 

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Getting ahead of the curve: ‘Disease proofing’ the new normal workplace

Globally, several stringent measures are being taken against the COVID-19 pandemic to ensure that a “return to normalcy” will happen sooner than projected. The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease said that it is possible to experience the “new normal” within the year but the transition to making people feel safe to move around should start early on.  

While many have successes in working remotely, the thought of returning to the office post-lockdown can still trigger pandemic fears and risks. The wellness and safety of the people should be treated as equally important to the economic health of a business by applying stronger employee health measures beyond temperature checks, deep cleaning, or sanitation areas. 

Experts believe that the transition period can be seen as an opportunity to address pre-existing challenges. Rethinking the ways we approach the design and use of the workplace can be utilized to help prevent diseases and protect public health.  

Sanitary Redesign 

Real estate developments need to be more conscious of the materials that they build with given the sustainability shift. In a Forbes report, it is suggested that anti-microbial materials such as copper should be more utilized to be less hospitable to germs. It is also imperative to include key distancing-minded features in their design or pre-build plans. 

To significantly lower the risk of contamination, ventilation systems must be reconfigured to blow air from the ceiling instead of the floor up. It is also recommended that the six-feet distancing buffer is observed by color-coding the floors and ensuring that workstations are properly spaced. 

Productivity & Eco-friendly Design 

Given the concurrent public health crisis, the office must be recognized as an environment too and changes in relation to keeping it healthy and safe should be prioritized. The American Journal of Health believes that improved indoor air quality can impact employee disposition and reduce absenteeism which leads to better productivity. 

Employing a high-quality air filtration system can help in disease prevention such as allergies and asthma. Breathing in good air can also do wonders for mental health as research shows that it helps alleviate stress and depression. 

Other environmental considerations include better acoustics, more natural light, office ergonomics, and ample privacy.  

The Philippines is no stranger to the rise of green developments. Moving beyond the capital, Cebu is home to the sustainable estates such as JEG Tower @ One Acacia who got ahead and placed a premium in the overall sustainable design and build of the tower to better cater to its occupants’ wellbeing and the environment.  

JEG Tower achieved Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) BD+C Core and Shell Silver pre-certification. This guarantees that the estate is optimized for disease prevention, promotes healthier indoor space that encourages movement and activity, lower use of energy, and better water conservation. Its fresh air system is also well-complemented by the installation of the MERV 13 filter than can capture anything as small as 0.3 to 1 micron.  

RELATED: JEG Tower Focus – Additional Safety Features for Disease Prevention 

Aiming to ensure further safety from viruses, it has pivoted successfully in employing adjustments to minimize the risk of contamination through contactless and technology-reliant measures by adding automatic doors, sensors, and scanning of QR codes upon entry.  

As the priorities shift to focus on reshaping spaces ahead of the new normal and protecting communities in the post-lockdown landscape, the demand for efficient properties will only continue to increase. The future of work will rest on spaces that can foster a clean and healthy environment.  

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The Future of Workplace: Contactless features and smart technology

The COVID-19 pandemic has undoubtedly raised the awareness of how easy germs and viruses can spread within communities and shared spaces. As companies commence their workplace re-entry programs, considerations on how they can protect their employees within the space become the top priority in the new normal. 

While the extent of the changes in the post-pandemic office is still uncertain, workplace strategists and experts argue that this event will accelerate the digital transformation of companies, allowing faster adoption of advanced workplace technology. 

The rise of smart technology 

Many businesses adapt to the new normal by incorporating innovation and advanced technology in the office. Majority are transitioning to create a contactless (or at least a low-touch) office experience as it becomes the new standard for the health and security of their employees.  

Given this shift in focus, the unprecedented rise of smart technology in offices and commercial buildings will be very apparent in the new normal. Smart offices are workspaces that utilize automated processes to enhance building operations, from air conditioning and heating, lighting, and security. All of these conveniences will start to be the standard in eliminating and reducing risks after the recent pandemic and other health threats. 

Replacing touch with gesture 

Since the World Health Organization reported that viruses can be contracted from contaminated surfaces, offices will seek to limit contact in operating key equipment such as printer screens, elevator buttons, door handles and replace them with technology-enabled by sensors. Workplace strategists expect more sensor-automated doors and screens to be more common moving forward that removes the need for touching handles or pressing buttons. 

Eliminating high-contact surfaces 

As employees return to the office, they are likely to be conscious of the threat that even the smallest element of the shared environment can produce.  Building developers and commercial institutions should consider the benefits of new advancements in technology such as voice or motion-activated technology.  

Implementing solutions such as voice-controlled elevators, remotely operated printers, and increased use of sensors throughout offices would substantially reduce workplace risk. In more secured offices, emerging technologies such as facial recognition can further reduce contact and exposure among colleagues. 

Hospital-grade workplace  

In the longer term, many experts have predicted that people are becoming more aware of contagious diseases and how fast viruses can spread in offices and other shared spaces. The community built inside the workplace could have elements similar to a hospital. From going for materials and surfaces that can withstand heavy cleaning to installing industry-grade air filters, offices in the new normal will prioritize maintaining a clean, safe, and healthy space for its occupants. 

Future-forward commercial establishments such as JEG Tower @ One Acacia, utilize the Minimum Efficiency Reporting Values or MERV filters that can capture particles in the air from 0.3 and 10 microns (µm). Higher value in MERV ratings leads to better filtration, fewer dust particles, and other airborne contaminants.  

JEG Tower utilizes the MERV13 filter, which is one of the highest-grade filters in the industry. It promotes a healthy breathing environment, and it will not allow the growth of bacteria, mold, mildew, or fungi. Some MERV filters can even filter pollen, dust, and microscopic droplets in the air to a certain extent. 

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JEG Tower Focus – Additional Safety Features for Disease Prevention

JEG Tower @ One Acacia aims to provide the best workplace in Cebu City. With the threats of the COVID-19 pandemic, this 22-storey premium green building will be adapting additional measures to ensure the safety of its tenants and employees.

According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, this new coronavirus strain can be spread in three main ways:

  • Person-to-person via direct contact;
  • Person-to-person via airborne respiratory droplets produced when an infected person cough or sneezes;
  • Surface-to-person via contact with surfaces or objects that hold the virus, followed by an individual touching their mouth, nose, or eyes.

LEED-certified buildings, like JEG Tower, were designed, constructed, and operates to high standards for health and cleanliness, they reduce the risk of exposing its tenants to infection, effectively preventing the spread of the virus within the building. Following the meticulous standards set by the industry, it is designed to uplift and promote the overall health and well-being of its occupiers. More than its improved indoor air quality, ventilation, and ideal lighting. Other notable post-pandemic adoption features will also be installed.

Minimized contact

To limit the exposure and human to human contact, JEG Tower is redesigning entryways to the building and within the establishment. Sliding doors will be installed at the ground floor entrance. Employees and visitors can also input their information through QR code check-ins available at the reception area in the lobby.

Tenants are also being given the option to avail of adding more space for proper distancing. Multiple floor takers have an option to build an internal staircase between floors. This can be utilized to minimize the employees’ constant use of the tower’s elevators.

Common area bathrooms will have foot handles and sensor automated fixtures such as automatic faucets and toilet flushing will be installed.

Improved indoor air quality

Disease-causing viruses and bacteria spread in the workplace faster through the air that circulates in the office. Utilizing the highest-grade air filters and its fresh air system, JEG Tower significantly improves the indoor air quality for tenants inside the tower.

Space for sanitation and disinfection

Each office space or unit has a provision to construct their shower facility. This will be available in the tower’s parking floor for the convenience of the tenants. This is also included to support employees’ improved hygiene and serve as an additional disinfection or sanitation feature within the establishment.

Commute to work alternatives

Many studies show that there is an added risk of exposure for people who commute to their work while riding public utility vehicles. To reduce this risk, JEG Tower will provide additional bike racks to discourage tenants from commuting to work and minimize their exposure to other people.

Other amenities for alternative forms of transportation are being considered such as scooter parking and corresponding charging stations. Premium green buildings emphasize the importance of uplifting the quality of life of its tenants by ensuring that the highest standards for health and safety are observed and followed. With the vision of upgrading the workplace lifestyle and improving the well-being of its occupiers, JEG Tower @ One Acacia invests in state-of-the-art technology and the latest innovation to provide security and safety from diseases the Cebuanos deserve.