As we move forward into a new year, it’s important that we take the time to examine the critical maintenance required to re-open, repair, and re-think our facilities and our businesses.

In this post, we’ll take a fly-through look at some of the most crucial items to address in two main categories:

1.Critical System Maintenance and Repairs 

2.Protective Equipment

Critical Systems Maintenance and Repairs 

Every facility manager knows which systems are critical and must be operational at all times. Many facilities have established preventative maintenance schedules to keep critical systems running and plan for upcoming repairs and maintenance. But changing the basic operations of a building changes all of those plans. What happens if the building has been closed for an extended period? Or traffic volumes of people using the building is a fraction of what it used to be? How do we keep critical systems functional while occupation is limited?

This article will provide an outline for the facilities management and engineering teams to evaluate common problems related to closures and low occupancy. “But my facility is unique” you’re thinking, and you are correct. There are major differences between a correctional facility, a school, a stadium, a hotel, and a hospital. There are major differences within facility type, and even between facilities on the same campus. That’s why we believe so deeply in sending out real, trained, knowledgeable (human) technical consultants to help identify the unique features of your facility and create an action list of possible solutions.

General Facility Systems:

As you do your preliminary walkthrough of your facility, it is important to use all of your senses to identify problem areas. Keep an eye out for standing water, leaks, or an abundance of steam from a vent. Listen for odd vibrations, knocks, drips or hisses. Smell for foul odors. Touch to ensure heating and cooling systems are working properly. This is just a start to the conversation. 

 

Critical Inventory Restock

Review the status of critical parts in each of your stockrooms and stock closets. Consider what repair parts you will need to re-stock. If you did any upgrades during the shutdown do you know or have the basic repair items for them in stock? 

Are the repair parts that you have in good working order? Depending on the site conditions and length of time on the shelf, rubber goods will lose their elasticity, batteries may not work, metals can become corroded if there is any moisture in the air.  

This is one our specialties and we would love to help you with your stockroom and inventory needs. Having the appropriate inventory in your stockroom creates cost savings in both time and money on labor and facility downtime. Those savings can be enormous, if you already have the right repair parts in the building.

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•Restroom Maintenance

•Kitchen and Janitorial Closet Maintenance