Google has temporarily closed parts of its New York operations after exterminators uncovered potential signs of bed bugs at the company’s Chelsea headquarters.
The discovery prompted an immediate response from Google’s environmental, health, and safety team, who advised employees to work from home until further notice.
The email sent to staff on Sunday warned that a sniffer dog and pest control team had found “credible evidence of their presence,” according to WIRED.
The company emphasized that no employees should return to the building until treatments were completed and additional inspections confirmed the area was clear.
The possible outbreak may be linked to several large stuffed animals located throughout the office; however, this theory has not been verified. The Chelsea campus, which occupies a historic 1930s rail terminal and cost roughly $2.1 billion to develop, is one of Google’s most significant East Coast hubs.
Google has since expanded its inspections to other offices across New York City “out of an abundance of caution,” the internal email stated. Employees were also asked to report any symptoms of “bed bug exposure” or sightings within the workplace. Those who discover bed bugs at home were instructed to contact professional exterminators immediately.
While the company works to address the issue, some employees have cautiously returned to the office; however, many continue to operate remotely as the investigation continues.
The recent incident is not without precedent. In 2010, Google’s 9th Avenue office also dealt with a bed bug problem during a period when infestations were common throughout New York City.
Bed bugs are known for their persistence and adaptability, making them one of the hardest pests to eliminate. They reproduce quickly, survive on minimal resources, and can easily travel from one location to another by attaching to clothing, luggage, or furniture. Their ability to spread rapidly often requires multiple treatments and careful prevention measures to fully eradicate them.
“This means that even if you successfully treat one location, there’s a risk of reintroduction if you bring infested items into your home or travel to a place with a bed bug infestation,” according to The Bed Bug Experts.
For now, exterminators continue to monitor the Chelsea building and other nearby campuses as the company works to prevent any further spread.
