Category: Maintenance and Operations

4 Ways to Prepare Your Facilities for Fall

With summer coming to an end, it’s time for facilities managers not only to examine the inside, outside, and landscaping elements of their facilities but also to be prepared for power outages, which are more likely to happen as it gets colder. Whether it’s an office complex, college or hospital campus, recreational hub, transportation hub, […]

Safeguarding Your Facility: The Power of Proper Humidity Control

Maintaining ideal relative humidity levels in the built environment results in substantial benefits. By prioritizing humidity control, facilities managers can create an environment that optimizes productivity, preserves assets, and ensures the well-being of all occupants. Proper humidity regulation is a crucial component of comprehensive building management, and its positive impact extends across industries and facility […]

FM Industry Welcomes the 2023 Class of IFMA Fellows

The International Facility Management Association (IFMA) has announced the 2023 Class of IFMA Fellows. Bestowed with the association’s highest honor, Marshall MacFarlane, Paul Ratkovic, and Debbie Jaslow Shatz will be inducted officially on Sept. 27 at the opening session of IFMA’s World Workplace 2023 Conference and Expo in Denver. IFMA’s Fellows Program was established in 1992 to recognize […]

How Facilities Managers Can Maintain Six Stormwater System Types

It’s important that facilities managers understand how to properly maintain their stormwater management systems, including, but not limited to, catch basins, retention and detention ponds, bioretention cells, rain gardens, permeable pavement, and stormwater vaults. Facilities Management Advisor’s July 13 webinar, “Exploring Stormwater Best Management Practices across the United States,” featured speaker Erin Zaske, a certified […]

College Boiler Plant Project Builds on Campus-Wide Energy Upgrades

The New York Power Authority (NYPA) has partnered with the City University of New York (CUNY) to implement a boiler plant upgrade at Bronx Community College that will improve the reliability of the campus’ heating system. The improvements directly support BuildSmart2025, a statewide energy efficiency program administered by NYPA, aimed at reducing energy usage in […]

Michigan Utility Helps School Districts Add Electric Buses

With classes starting across Michigan, utility Consumers Energy is working with 11 school districts to put all-electric school buses on the road. “Michigan is in the middle of an electric vehicle transformation―that means vehicles of all shapes and sizes, including the traditional big yellow school buses so many of us rode as kids,” said Lauren […]

10 Tips to Prevent Dust Explosions at Your Facility

It’s important for facilities managers to understand the risks of explosions and fires in the workplace. Airborne particles, like dust, have a surprising combustive power and can pose a threat to various industries. “Preventing dust explosions is of utmost importance in any facility. The devastating consequences of these explosions can pose a significant threat to […]

How Houston Is Making Its Facilities More Resilient Against Natural Disasters

While facilities professionals who work in the public and private sectors are tasked with ensuring their facilities are ready when disaster strikes, increasing amounts of greenhouse gas (GHGs) have resulted in more destructive and extremely hot weather, which greatly impacts residents and businesses. Specifically, these conditions can severely impact the power grid. Municipalities should therefore […]

Dollar Tree and OSHA Reach Settlement Agreement over Safety Hazards

Dollar Tree Stores Inc., the operator of discount retailers Dollar Tree and Family Dollar stores, has entered into a settlement agreement with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), the agency announced August 23. OSHA has frequently cited Dollar Tree and Family Dollar stores, as well as competitor Dollar General, for safety violations, most often including blocked […]

How to Address Stinky Urinals in Your Restrooms

Studies have shown that restroom cleanliness has a major impact on business reputation, meaning facilities managers must ensure a pleasant restroom experience for all customers and workers. That includes eliminating any off-putting smells. Are your men’s restrooms encountering urinal malodor issues? Klaus Reichardt, CEO and founder of Waterless Co. Inc., recommends managers and cleaning professionals […]