Trust building

Further, promoting peace of mind for users is vital through "visible sanitization and disinfection communicated regularly and apps with timely communication to broadcast live pandemic updates," Cheung advises.

"It is important to acknowledge that the science about the virus and the fear that surrounds the pandemic are not always aligned," Pearce admits. "Both need to be addressed through the buildings and spaces we design and operate."

His experience with clients and within his own company shows that transparent messaging involving all affected stakeholders goes a long way. Most employers have a genuine interest in ensuring staff welfare, which is evident in the visibly high standards of hygiene they try to maintain.