On the safest way for American employers reopening their offices to prevent the spread of the coronavirus

 "Upon arriving at work, employees should get a temperature and symptom check. 

Inside the office, desks should be six feet apart. If that isn’t possible, employers should consider erecting plastic shields around desks. 

Seating should be barred in common areas. 

And face coverings should be worn at all times. 

If followed, the guidelines would lead to a far-reaching remaking of the corporate work experience. They even upend years of advice on commuting, urging people to drive to work by themselves, instead of taking mass transportation or car-pooling, to avoid potential exposure to the virus. 

The recommendations run from technical advice on ventilation systems (more open windows are most desirable) to suggested abolition of communal perks like latte makers and snack bins.

“Replace high-touch communal items, such as coffee pots, water coolers, and bulk snacks, with alternatives such as prepackaged, single-serving items,” the guidelines say.

And some border on the impractical, if not near impossible: “Limit use and occupancy of elevators to maintain social distancing of at least 6 feet. 

The C.D.C. addressed each of us too, reiterating what has become a kind of national mantra: regular hand washing of at least 20 seconds; no fist bumps or handshakes; no face touching."

Each of us should compare the real situation in our offices, laboratories and other workplaces with these recommendations. Employers should be aware that in the event of a coronavirus outbreak in the workplace, work here may stop altogether. It would be more expensive than opening the windows and implementing other security requirements.