Practical Facilities Tips, News & Advice.
As we recently closed out Building Safety Month in May, it served as a great reminder for facilities managers to evaluate their passive fire protection systems. While active systems like sprinklers and alarms often get the spotlight, passive defenses—specifically fire door assemblies—are equally important for compartmentalizing smoke and flames to save lives. Over the past […]
Walk into almost any K‑12 school in America, and you’ll see evidence of intent: secured or restricted vestibules, posted check-in procedures, and safety guidelines on the wall. But walk in during the middle of a busy afternoon, and you’ll probably see something different: a door that’s been propped open, a visitor wandering past an unattended […]
With so many pressing challenges facing the world today, the worsening drought crisis in the United States deserves far more attention. As of late May 2026, more than half the country was experiencing drought conditions. Data shows that roughly 51% of the United States, including Puerto Rico, and about 61% of the contiguous forty-eight states […]
Facilities managers know the drill. The thermostat complaint arrives before the morning coffee gets cold. Someone is always too hot, someone else is always too cold, and the ticketing system fills up with grievances about stuffy air and odd smells. It can feel like an endless, unwinnable battle. A new national survey suggests those complaints […]
Industrial facilities are vulnerable to an assortment of challenges related to storage and layout. Rather than allowing these challenges to persist, facilities can address the most critical issues through strategic design decisions that enhance safety, efficiency, and overall performance. Quick remedies are a well-planned layout, good organization, and specialized storage solutions. Optimize Warehouse Layouts Poor warehouse layout design is the cause of many problems that might […]
One might expect Michael Zechman, a veteran facilities management professional at The Hershey Co., to be wary of futuristic tech such as artificial intelligence. However, he embraces it and believes AI can play a major role in FM so long as adoption is approached “thoughtfully.” In fact, he noted, “Within my organization, we are already […]
Employee discomfort, rising energy bills, and an HVAC system that’s constantly working overtime are common challenges in large facilities, with poor air circulation being the leading factor. Facilities that incorporate HVLS (high-volume, low-speed) fans can balance temperatures, improve occupant comfort, and reduce operating costs without requiring infrastructure alterations. The HVAC Is Running, and the Space […]
Back to Basics is an article series that highlights important, but possibly overlooked, information facilities management professionals should know. As the seasons change, facilities often experience a buildup of residue, wear, and debris from shifting weather conditions and daily traffic. Increased foot traffic, moisture, outdoor elements, and the spread of germs can quickly lead to visible […]
MetLife Stadium, in partnership with the FIFA World Cup 2026 NYNJ Host Committee, has achieved LEED v4.1 Gold certification for Existing Buildings from the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). The special designation reinforces the stadium and region’s long-term commitment to sustainability ahead of hosting eight matches, including the Final, in this year’s FIFA Men’s World […]
Fitness amenities have become a staple in many types of facilities, from corporate campuses and multifamily housing to universities, healthcare centers, and municipal recreation buildings. However, maintaining a fitness space that is safe, efficient, and well-used can be a complex responsibility for facilities managers. The goal can no longer be simply providing a room with […]