Practical Facilities Tips, News & Advice.
Industrial facilities depend on effective thermal management to keep people safe, equipment running reliably, and energy use under control. For decades, jacketed insulation systems have been the default solution for managing surface temperatures on hot and cold process equipment—particularly in food and beverage environments where consistency, sanitation, and employee safety are closely linked. But as […]
Automatic door safety has never been more critical, as automated entrances now play a central role in accessibility, code compliance, and overall customer experience. Modern standards increasingly position automated doors as essential infrastructure, but when these systems are not properly serviced or calibrated, they pose real risks, underscoring the need for consistent maintenance and professional […]
Earth Day is a good reminder that facilities managers play an important role in managing environmental impact. Daily operational decisions can shape how sustainable a building is. Managers can use this holiday to develop a clear and practical plan to improve energy efficiency and support long-term environmental goals. Conduct a Facility-Wide Energy Audit An energy […]
Spring brings a fresh set of opportunities for K-12 facilities managers to strengthen campus performance. As schools transition from cooler months and prepare for increased outdoor use, maintenance teams can use advanced technologies to improve efficiency, optimize resources, and support safe learning environments. By integrating tools such as the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence […]
Unplanned downtime is one of the most expensive problems a facility can face. According to ABB’s Value of Reliability report, two-thirds of companies deal with unplanned downtime at least once a month, at a median cost of $125,000 per hour. Electrical system failures are a leading contributor to that figure, yet the vast majority are […]
Back to Basics is an article series that highlights important, but possibly overlooked, information facilities management professionals should know. Water pumps are among the most critical (and most underestimated) assets in modern facilities. They quietly support HVAC systems, boiler feed operations, domestic water supply, wastewater handling, cooling towers, irrigation, fire protection, and sanitation. When pumps operate […]
As winter turns to spring, facilities teams have their work cut out from them transitioning from heat to cooling, ensuring their centralized HVAC system is properly serviced and ready for sustained use. Before shifting all their attention to cooling needs, though, facilities managers should also be mindful of end-of-season maintenance requirements for their heating solutions. […]
Restaurant operators are navigating one of the most challenging business environments in recent memory, marked by rising food and labor costs, staffing shortages, and heightened customer expectations. But even in this climate, many are finding efficiency and resilience through technology and automation behind the scenes and strengthening performance where it’s greatly needed—in the kitchen and […]
Facility leaders today operate under significant pressure. Budgets are tight, labor is scarce, and ESG commitments are under scrutiny. Executive teams want proof (not promises) that facilities are performing efficiently and safely. Instinct is no longer enough. The leaders who are gaining ground aren’t necessarily those with the largest teams or the newest buildings, but […]
Handwashing is an action that’s done millions of times every day in homes, workplaces, schools, stores, and a multitude of other locations across the country. To delve deeper into this daily habit, the 2026 Healthy Handwashing Survey from Bradley Co. posed a series of questions to U.S. adults and uncovered some interesting findings. In the […]