Practical Facilities Tips, News & Advice.
With the rise of new COVID-19 variants, 87% of workers have heightened concerns about working in an office building, according to a new survey. Honeywell released initial findings from its second annual study on workers’ perceptions and feelings on the health and safety of their workplace. Conducted by Wakefield Research, the study surveyed 3,000 office workers […]
There has been a dramatic increase in coverage regarding lead and lead poisoning, particularly since the water crisis in Flint, Michigan hit the news. Now, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is making some moves that will expand lead regulations, that could have an impact on older facilities, especially pre-1978 structures where children are present, such […]
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has opened applications for the 2024 Renew America’s Schools Prize, which will award $180 million for clean energy upgrades at public K-12 schools to lower costs and improve indoor air quality. Funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, this new round of funding builds on $178 million in grants awarded […]
Crypto.com Arena, home of the NBA’s Los Angeles Lakers, the NHL’s Los Angeles Kings, and the WNBA’s Los Angeles Sparks, has earned a healthy building certification from the International WELL Building Institute (IWBI) for a second year in a row. Arena owner and operator AEG also secured new WELL certifications for the 7,100-seat Peacock Theater and its AEG […]
The experts at Safety.BLR.com® have provided an answer to the following question: “We have a general industry Texas customer whose business insurance company is requiring that they store all their flammable aerosols in flammable lockers, even if there is less than 25 gallons. Is this true?”
School custodians play a vital role in creating a successful learning environment—inside and outside the classroom. However, their extensive schedules and strenuous duties often go unnoticed. To honor exceptional school custodians, Cintas Corp. has launched its 12th annual Custodian of the Year contest and is seeking nominations from the public through Feb. 7. “Beyond cleaning and maintenance, […]
If you’re a facilities manager in California, you should be staying up to date on the developments! California’s Division of Occupational Safety and Health (Cal/OSHA) recently revised its draft indoor heat illness prevention standard to address stakeholders’ concerns. Employers would have to maintain the indoor temperature and heat index below 87 degrees Fahrenheit when workers […]
On July 17, the U.S. Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board (CSB) released an update on its investigation into a January 2023 explosion and toxic chemical release at the Honeywell Performance Materials and Technologies facility in Geismar, La. A reboiler at the facility exploded, leading to the release of over 870 pounds (lb) of hydrogen fluoride (HF) […]
As the Atlantic hurricane season intensifies, the U.S. Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board (CSB) is urging petroleum and chemical facilities to prepare now to help prevent catastrophic chemical releases during the season and to ensure the safety of workers, emergency responders, and surrounding communities. In May, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predicted […]
Heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVACR) industry group ASHRAE has joined organizations, government agencies, and companies worldwide to support World Refrigeration Day. Celebrated on June 26th each year, the annual event is dedicated to raising awareness about the significant role of refrigeration and air conditioning to modern life. This year’s theme, “Next Generation Cooling,” highlights […]