Practical Facilities Tips, News & Advice.
On pace for another recording-breaking year, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) intercepted 3,251 firearms at airport security checkpoints during the first half of 2023, which ended June 30. The total represents an average 18 firearms per day at TSA checkpoints, and more than 92% of them were loaded. This is an increase from the first […]
The U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Efficient and Healthy Schools Campaign recently celebrated the achievements of 17 K-12 schools and districts that implemented exemplary projects to improve the energy and environmental performance of their facilities. Led by the DOE’s Building Technologies Office, the campaign is an interagency effort supported by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency […]
Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly securing a foothold in the facility management space. A quick Google search for “AI tools for facility management” will produce a host of companies offering AI-driven tools to help with everything from maintenance management to space optimization. Facility managers who are eager to exploit the benefits of AI-driven tools should […]
Johnson C. Smith University (JCSU), a historically Black university located in Charlotte, N.C., is giving its more than 150-year-old campus a facelift this summer as the Department of Facilities rolls out upgrades in academic, athletic, administrative, and residential buildings across the campus. The initiative, spearheaded by Director of Facilities Erna Perkins-Jones, began nearly three years […]
On June 26, the California Division of Occupational Safety and Health (Cal/OSHA) announced citations for two Half Moon Bay farms where seven workers were shot and killed January 23. Cal/OSHA cited California Terra Garden Inc., for 22 violations, including 5 serious and 1 serious, accident-related for failing to have a plan or procedures to immediately notify […]
Maintaining clean and hygienic tile and grout surfaces in commercial facilities is essential not only for aesthetic reasons, but also for the overall health and safety of occupants. However, it is crucial to recognize the difference between cleaning for appearances and cleaning for true effectiveness. In this article, we will explore the best practices for […]
New York Gov. Kathy Hochul announced the approval of 48 Smart Schools Investment Plans focused on reimagining education in an evolving age and boosting school security. The approved plans, totaling $13.2 million, are part of the $2 billion Smart Schools Bond Act, a sweeping education technology program established in 2014. “Investing in our children’s education […]
While technological advancements have revolutionized security measures, it is crucial to recognize that technology alone cannot guarantee a secure environment. To achieve comprehensive security, physical security professionals from diverse industries must embrace the 3Ps Model: People, Policies, and Practices. By understanding and implementing this holistic approach, physical security professionals can create robust security frameworks that […]
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) announced the first round of selectees for the Renew America’s Schools grant program, a competitive award that will support the implementation of energy improvements in public K-12 schools across the country. Following “unprecedented” demand for the funding, the DOE chose 24 Local Education Agencies (LEAs) in 22 states to share […]
As environmental consciousness grows, carbon footprints have become a critical concern for businesses across various industries. In particular, commercial buildings account for a significant portion of greenhouse gas emissions due to their energy-intensive operations, with heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems playing a substantial role. In this article, we will explore 10 effective strategies […]