Delta Variant Hampers Oil & Gas Companies
When it comes to bringing personnel back to the oil & gas workplace, the United States leads the globe. However, as the Delta variant strain of COVID-19 keeps spreading and more cases are reported, this might delay the return to work.
Despite the US government’s efforts to raise vaccination rates, the proliferation of COVID-19 variants has resulted in a rise in infection rates, particularly in regions where more people have declined to get vaccinated. According to the New York Times, the number of new cases in the United States has climbed by 171% in the last two weeks, compared to a 27% increase globally. Additionally, we’ve observed a 42% spike in fatalities, compared to a 24% increase internationally.
However, analysts believe it will likely not be the end of the drive to reopen companies. However, it may cause some slowing down.
There was clearly a sense of urgency to return to work in June. According to a research conducted by workplace experience platform provider Robin, the percentage of employees returning to work climbed by 50% in the United States in June. This increased the average office capacity to 20%, more than double the level reported in March.
According to Robin, the increase has been consistent, with oil and gas, chemicals, petroleum, utilities, hospitality, government, and manufacturing leading the trend. The United States is now matched with India in terms of return to office rankings, a significant increase from its May rating of #17. Poland is ranked second, while China is ranked third.
Many oil & gas workers may anticipate their employers requiring everyone to wear masks, including those who are vaccinated. This is especially true if their region is currently seeing a high rate of COVID cases.
Over the next several months, both energy employers and employees will need to be adaptable and knowledgeable about the highly-contagious Delta variant. Employers should be aware of and comprehend the changes that have occurred in their locations in terms of both health statistics and local and state safety standards.
Click below to read the magazine
