Preparing for the Worst: Guide for Facility Managers

As job titles go, ‘facility manager’ is a bit misleading.

That’s because a facility manager doesn’t just manage a given school, arena, or conference center. They are also in charge of ensuring the safety and comfort of everyone inside that facility.

If disaster strikes, there’s a lot more at stake than soggy floors or overheated hallways – a good facility manager must be prepared for the worst.

HVAC failure

Every HVAC system seems to break down on the hottest or coldest days of the year.

To avoid as much discomfort and damage as possible, stay on top of regular HVAC maintenance and inspection. If your units are old, start planning for an upgrade. If they’re new, make sure they are serviced regularly to ensure a long lifespan.

Should your HVAC systems fail entirely, you need to understand what you’ll need temporarily until a replacement can be installed. In those cases, we offer a variety of portable air conditioners and heaters, as well as dehumidifiers to guard against the onset of mold.

Water damage

Water damage is one of the costliest problems to fix — for homeowners and facility managers alike. That’s why it’s important to know your problem areas and understand what issues have occurred in the past. These issues are likely to resurface at some point.

Also, educate yourself about what remediation products you will need in the event of a problem. What size pump will you need to clear away a flooded basement or bathroom? What kind of dehumidifier can accommodate the affected space?

You also need to consider the impact this could have on your flooring. Our carpet extractors are designed to clean and dry carpet while reducing bacteria and mold growth. Our floor buffers can bring a damaged floor back to life. And if there’s no salvaging your existing flooring, our equipment can help you install something brand new.

Security threats

There’s no getting around it: Security is now one of the biggest issues facility managers face.

To prepare for the worst, create an emergency response plan and ensure all building personnel are well-versed in the specifics. Cybersecurity and technology are increasingly being delegated to facility managers, so educate yourself on the available tools and best practices.

One area that’s easy to miss in disaster preparedness is security cameras. They are designed to blend in, but they can’t be forgotten. Check your security cameras regularly to make sure they are functioning properly. If one or more need to be replaced, bring in our mobile surveillance cameras to ensure you are covered until the new equipment arrives.

You can’t be too careful. The safety of your facility and its occupants depends on it.

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