Lloyd’s underwriting room is due to open on 1 September, the company has declared, at 45-per-cent capacity to ensure social distancing in the workplace. The firm also plans to incorporate a new workplace environment that enforces strict new sanitary and social distancing practices.

Workplace changes include clear screens around the underwriting boxes, temperature-check thermal cameras and a click-and-collect takeaway catering. John Neal, Lloyd’s Chief Executive added that regular deep cleans, queueing and one-way systems will also be implemented to limit the potential spread of the virus.

In addition, Lloyd’s also plans to launch a virtual underwriting room where brokers and underwriters can hold private virtual meetings – a help desk detailing how to use the new system will also be provided on the ground floor of the Lloyd’s building.

“[The virtual underwriting room] will combine the best features of 1 Lime Street with digital technology to create efficient, smart and collaborative ways of doing business,” said Neal.