Category: Human Resources

GSA Adopts New Accessibility Guidelines for Federal Buildings

By Joe Bebon, Editor Jul 12, 2024 Design and Construction

Updated: Jul 12, 2024

The U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) announced a final rule amending the Federal Management Regulation to adopt the new accessibility guidelines issued by the Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board (Access Board). The Access Board’s guidelines establish that pedestrian facilities in the public right-of-way dedicated to transportation are readily accessible to and usable by people with disabilities. The […]

OSHA Proposes Indoor, Outdoor Heat Standard

By Guy Burdick, Contributing Writer Jul 9, 2024 Heating and Cooling

Updated: Jul 9, 2024

On July 2, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) released text of a proposed heat injury and illness prevention standard. The proposed regulation would contain requirements for water, shade, paid breaks, heat acclimatization, and training. Heat injury and illness prevention requirements would be triggered by a National Weather Service heat index of 80° Fahrenheit (F) or […]

IFMA Welcomes 2024-25 Global Board of Directors

By Joe Bebon, Editor Jul 1, 2024 Human Resources

Updated: Jul 1, 2024

The International Facility Management Association (IFMA) has announced the member-elected executive committee and appointees to its global board of directors for the 2024-25 fiscal year. Effective July 1, Lynn Baez, FMP, SFP, IFMA Fellow, will lead the board as chair. She is joined by First Vice Chair Christa Dodoo, CFM, FMP, CIWFM, CMQ-OE, and Second […]

Expert Q&A: How Can Facilities Managers Be Great Leaders for Their Teams?

By Corey Sipe, Associate Editor Jun 26, 2024 Human Resources

Updated: Jun 26, 2024

As a facilities management (FM) leader, how you lead matters to those around you. Your team depends on you to cast the vision for company goals and to provide them with strong direction, support, and the tools needed to be successful in their roles. So, how can you be the best leader for your team? […]

Time to Update? Tech Office Spaces in the Hybrid Work Era

By Joe Bebon, Editor Jun 18, 2024 Design and Construction

Updated: Jun 18, 2024

North American tech companies, once the vanguard of workplace innovation, are still catching up to new work patterns. With average peak utilization not exceeding 34% in tech offices, up to $40 million in rent costs are wasted annually on underused space. That’s according to a new report from international design practice Hassell and workplace analytics company Density. The State […]

How Melanopic Lighting Can Enhance Health and Well-Being

By Megan Tepo, Cooper Lighting Solutions Jun 14, 2024 Design and Construction

Updated: Jun 14, 2024

Light plays a critical role in our ability to see via day and night vision. But just as important, nonvisual receptors in the eye regulate our internal body clock, sleep patterns, and overall well-being. Traditional lighting design primarily focuses on visual comfort, ambiance, and task illumination. However, recent scientific studies and technological advancements have introduced […]

Optimizing Restroom Maintenance: Hygiene and Efficiency Strategies

By Kris Alderson, Bradley Company Jun 12, 2024 Design and Construction

Updated: Jun 12, 2024

Restroom experiences can significantly influence the perception of a business or commercial facility. Think of a time you may have encountered an out-of-order toilet, messy sink, or empty soap or paper towel dispensers, and how that created a negative experience, or left a lasting impression of neglect or poor management. Poorly kept restrooms can undermine […]

How FCA Designed Its New Philadelphia HQ for Employee Wellness

By Rachel Ryan, FCA Jun 10, 2024 Design and Construction

Updated: Jun 13, 2024

The pandemic forced us to focus on the health and well-being of our bodies. Now as we look ahead to the future of work, the same focus should also be placed on our environments. While it is an individual pursuit, wellness is significantly influenced by our physical, social, and cultural environments. The Global Wellness Institute […]

Top Tips to Prepare Your Business for the 2024 Hurricane Season

By Joe Bebon, Editor Jun 7, 2024 Emergency Preparedness

Updated: Jun 7, 2024

As June 1 marked the beginning of the Atlantic hurricane season, businesses must revisit and reinforce their storm preparedness strategies. The looming threat of severe weather calls for thorough planning to mitigate potential disruptions. Forecasters at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) anticipate an “above normal” hurricane season, projecting up to 25 named storms, 13 of […]

Is Your Company Equipment Impacting Employee Turnover Rates?

By Taylor McKnight, General Construction Crane Service Inc. Jun 7, 2024 Design and Construction

Updated: Jun 7, 2024

Equipment is an important factor in keeping your business operating smoothly and plays a key role in the satisfaction of employees. Here, we’ll cover how equipment can become obsolete and eventually result in higher-than-usual staff turnover. How Failing or Out-of-Date Equipment Comes About Well-maintained equipment will last longer and operate more smoothly, but there are […]