Practical Facilities Tips, News & Advice.
Brivo, a provider of cloud-based access control and smart building technologies, announced the results of its research into integrated physical security in building design by architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) practitioners. The report finds that despite an increased commitment to “security-by-design” principles, the industry is still spending significant time and money post-build to fix security […]
This winter, frigid temperatures, high winds, and frozen precipitation across the country triggered record blackouts for homes and businesses, disrupted travel plans, and even delayed the meticulously scheduled NFL playoffs. As extreme weather events grow in frequency and intensity, power outages are becoming more common. These disruptions lead to essential businesses shutting down and lost […]
Pennsylvania officials have announced a total of $175 million will be available through two grant programs to help schools make facility upgrades and environmental repairs. Recognizing that students cannot learn, grow, and thrive without access to safe and healthy school facilities, the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) announced $75 million in funding through the Public […]
Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas traveled this week to Las Vegas to review U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) operations for Super Bowl LVIII with state and local law enforcement and the National Football League (NFL). For the past 18 months, DHS employees worked with local officials to assess potential risks and developed plans […]
The North Carolina Department of Public Instruction’s Center for Safer Schools has awarded $35 million in safety grants to 230 school districts and charter schools. The funding will be used for safety equipment, training, and services for students in crisis. Safety equipment covered by this grant includes items such as cameras, vape detectors, radios, and […]
Linda Besetzny oversees facilities management on a global scale, which poses unique challenges but offers rewarding opportunities. And with over 25 years of industry experience, she has a long list of achievements and interesting stories to share. Besetzny is the director of global facilities at R.J. O’Brien & Associates (RJO), the oldest and largest independent […]
Risk management for facilities managers has undergone a significant transformation in recent years. What was once centered on physical concerns like injuries, security, and equipment failures now encompasses a broader range of challenges. The evolving landscape demands a more comprehensive and adaptive approach to risk management, encompassing digital, environmental, and public health considerations to mitigate […]
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) Region 2 office has launched a regional emphasis program (REP) to reduce worker fatalities and injuries in the tree and landscape services industries in New Jersey, New York, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, the agency announced January 11. The new REP includes two elements: “We want to make […]
Although molds are an important part of the environment, their growth indoors can wreak havoc and cause serious issues. And these problems happen fast. Unforeseen incidents like pipe leaks and natural disasters like floods can create standing water, which enables mold to grow in as little as 24 to 48 hours. Because of its rapid […]
Pennsylvania has opened applications for $155 million in school safety and security grants, including $90 million in new investments for mental health counselors and resources. “As a new father, I understand how much Pennsylvania parents care about keeping their kids safe at school and healthy in body and mind,” said Lt. Gov. Austin Davis, chair of […]