Global tech brands, Google and Facebook have announced an extension to their remote working conditions to July 2020.
Google had initially planned on keeping its remote working policy until June 1, 2020, but it has decided to extend it by seven more weeks.
Google’s Chief Executive, Sundar Pichai, explained in an interview with BBC and monitored by The New Diplomat 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 until the end of 2020.
Similarly, Facebook announced that its offices would be opened by July 6, 2020, as COVID-19 induced lockdowns are gradually easing off around the world.
According to 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 powerhouse 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.