Practical Facilities Tips, News & Advice.
Facilities professionals should choose the right type of paint for their commercial, industrial, educational, and governmental buildings, taking into consideration its appearance and durability. No matter what option you choose, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends reading all instructions, selecting products that don’t emit harmful vapors, and providing adequate ventilation through open windows and […]
While a public restroom is by definition “public,” a majority of U.S. adults want more privacy when they’re using the toilet. According to the Healthy Handwashing Survey conducted by Bradley Co., 70% of Americans feel public restroom stalls lack sufficient “coverage.” Specifically, 58% would like the gaps around stall doors and walls eliminated. In fact, […]
Back to Basics is an article series that highlights important, but possibly overlooked, information facilities management professionals should know. Bollards are short, mounted vertical posts that create a barrier to prevent vehicles from entering facilities, utilities, pedestrian areas, and sensitive components inside facilities. Facilities professionals should install bollards on their properties for asset protection and […]
On this latest episode of FMA Shorts, Camilla Yamada, director of special projects at UMC, discusses smart building technology with a focus on healthcare facilities. This clip was taken from a webinar titled “How Building Tech Is Improving the FM Industry.” The full session is available for FREE on-demand here.
Certifications have become a cornerstone in the professional development of skilled trade workers, particularly in the fire, electrical, and life safety realms. Certification programs are designed to be comprehensive, promoting competency and safety in various specialized domains. In today’s competitive job market, the value of certifications extends far beyond a mere acknowledgment of skills; it […]
Nearly one-third of public schools (31%) have one or more non-permanent (portable) buildings in use on campus, according to new data released by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the statistical center within the U.S. Department of Education’s Institute of Education Sciences (IES). Additionally, major repair, renovation, or modernization work was being performed in […]
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is awarding $970 million to 114 airports across the country, spanning 44 states and three territories. The funding covers terminal expansions, sustainability, security, accessibility improvements, and more. “Today’s funding not only helps modernize airports to meet the needs of travelers today and for years to come, but also creates good-paying […]
As winter’s icy grip tightens around the country each year, facilities managers face the challenge of preparing heating systems to withstand severe cold temperatures. A proactive approach to preventative maintenance is crucial in ensuring the reliability, efficiency, and longevity of heating systems. The objective is not merely to address issues as they arise but to […]
In the realm of sustainable development, the importance of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria has gained significant traction. Major property owners, in particular, have come under increasing scrutiny on their environmental impact, social responsibility, and governance practices. Fortunately, drone inspections present a promising avenue for enhancing building ESG performance. This article explores how drone […]
Facilities professionals should regularly inspect the inside and outside of their commercial properties to look for problems with their foundations. Keep in mind that commercial foundations are built differently than residential foundations so they can support the weight of the structure. According to Forbes, commercial property foundations can fail because of saturated or frozen soil […]