Orange County-based property management firm RiverRock Real Estate Group is targeting a Fitwel Viral Response Module Certification. The certification promotes healthy design based on operational practices and was released in response to the pandemic.

"This new certification was developed by the Center for Active Design, an organization that promotes health through building design," Janice Church, regional vice president, RiverRock Real Estate Group, tells GlobeSt.com. "It is focused on operational facility management practices, not on design. The certification was released in response to the needs presented by the COVID-19 pandemic and mitigating viral transmission of all kinds."

To secure the certification, RiverRock will need to demonstrate its response to the pandemic and its defense against viruses. "This entity certification recognizes a corporation's approach and intention around mitigating viral transmission within a managed portfolio. It covers matters of building operations, occupant communication and property management practices," says Church. "We are working to complete our application by the end of January and anticipate offering the certification service to our clients and managed buildings by March."