Google will temporarily require its employees to undergo weekly COVID-19 tests in order to enter its offices or facilities in the US.
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Why?
To be allowed entry, one has to have a negative test and wear surgical-grade masks while at the office.
It currently provides both at-home and in-person testing options to its employees, their dependents and household members.
A Google spokesperson said that it is temporarily implementing these measures during a “period of heightened risk” to prevent further spread of the disease.
Delayed Office Return
The country is presently going through a fresh surge in cases due to the highly contagious Omicron variant.
Last month, Google said that it was delaying its return-to-office plan globally from January to August.
The new rules are on top of its directive from December that employees must get vaccinated or risk being forced to take leave and eventually fired.
Meta Makes Booster Shot Mandatory
Meanwhile, Meta announced that its workers will have to get a booster shot compulsorily..
Its decision is unique in that it is asking its workers to get booster doses whereas other companies require only the two doses.
It also deferred the reopening of its U.S. office to March 28, from the earlier planned January 31.
Proof Of Efficacy
The booster shot mandate applies to all those returning to office.
Those opting to work from the office will have to provide proof of their booster jabs.
A Meta spokesperson said that the vaccination requirements were expanded to include booster doses since it provides increased protection and there is evidence of its effectiveness.
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