Practical Facilities Tips, News & Advice.
Local fire departments responded to an estimated 1.5 million fires in the United States in 2022 that cost approximately $18 billion in property damage, according to the most recent Fire Loss report from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). In addition to the human impact of fire damage, property damage and the required reconstruction are […]
This year, Fire Prevention Week is being observed Oct. 6-12. Fire is one of the worst things that can happen to your facility, damaging the property you have so carefully maintained and putting lives at risk. A way to gain an advantage over costly and harmful fires is properly maintaining wet and dry fire sprinkler […]
The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has released the Anonymized Threat Response Guidance: A Toolkit for K-12 Schools, a new resource to help K-12 schools and their law enforcement and community partners create tailored approaches to addressing anonymous threats of violence, including those received on social media. The toolkit outlines steps school leaders can take to […]
Stadiums and venues provide a central and accessible location to help communities respond to extreme weather crises, providing safe storage and shelter in times of need. With these events becoming more frequent, severe, and expensive, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and National Football League (NFL) are teaming up on a new program that will […]
When designing facilities from the ground up, several key safety factors are understandably considered to ensure the safety of occupants. HVAC and fire code compliance—like fire suppression systems, smoke detectors, and proper ventilation—are crucial. Planners ensure new facilities have clear exit paths, accessible exits, and adequate lighting. Facilities may incorporate basic security measures such as […]
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) awarded 35 grants, totaling $18 million, under the Targeted Violence and Terrorism Prevention (TVTP) Grant Program for fiscal year 2024 (FY24). Awardees include public health organizations, colleges and universities, and groups working with underserved communities. The program is administered by the DHS Center for Prevention Programs and Partnerships (CP3) and […]
Editor’s note: FM Perspectives are industry op-eds. The views expressed are the authors’ and do not necessarily reflect those of Facilities Management Advisor. The senseless killing of two students and two teachers at Apalachee High School in rural Georgia on Sept. 4 once again begs the question, “How do we stop these school shootings?” It seems we […]
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) announced $90 million for 25 projects across the country to help states, cities, Tribal Nations, and their partners adopt and successfully implement updated energy codes for residential and commercial buildings. Building energy codes establish energy efficiency standards for new buildings, additions, and major renovations. According to the DOE, modern codes […]
Facilities managers have more tools at their disposal than ever before. Artificial intelligence (AI) is one of the most exciting of these, but organizations must learn how to use it before they can experience its full benefits. Recognizing where and how AI can enhance asset management can unlock unique workflow upgrades. Enabling Real-Time Adjustments One […]
An unanticipated facility disruption can have staggering costs and take a severe toll on property stakeholders. By prioritizing disruption prevention and implementing proactive strategies, you can significantly mitigate the risk of such events, making them less inevitable and more manageable. Easy-to-implement strategies to prevent facility disruptions range from regular maintenance checks to advanced planning and emergency […]