Google, Facebook extend remote working for employees

Employees who needed to return to work would be able to do so from July 2020, with enhanced safety protocols adhered to

Google and Facebook have announced their intentions to open their physical office spaces soon, though employees are allowed to decide to work remotely.

Google had initially planned on keeping its remote working policy until June 1, 2020, but it has decided to extend it by seven more months

Google’s Chief Executive, Sundar Pichai, explained to BBC that employees who needed to return to work would be able to do so from July 2020, with enhanced safety protocols adhered to.

However, Mr. Pichai added that most of its employees could carry on working from home remotely till the end of 2020

Also, Facebook announced that its offices would be opened by July 6, 2020, as COVID-19 induced lockdowns are gradually easing off around the world.

As said by a Facebook spokesperson, “Facebook has taken the next step in its return to work philosophy. Today, we announced anyone who can do their work remotely can choose to do so through the end of the year.”

The spokesperson added that Facebook was still working out modalities on which of its workers would be allowed to resume at the office

The tech power house was among the first companies to ask its workers to begin remote work. It also gave its staff $1,000 bonuses for working remotely and childcare costs

The announcement by Google corresponds with Facebook, as businesses around the world carry out their back-to-work strategies.