Conducting a Facility Assessment
Reasons for Assessments
A clean, presentable, and fully functioning building is the backbone of every customer-facing business. Employees are more efficient and innovative when they have a healthy and hygienic workplace. Some facility managers can be aware of their maintenance or cleanliness issues, but not know where to begin. Putting off the implementation of a commercial cleaning and maintenance system will only cost the company a halt in production due to unavailability.
Implementing a maintenance system reduces the risk of premature replacement of equipment and increases life expectancy of assets, such as HVAC systems. Utilizing a maintenance team that executes tasks on a schedule basis is more economical than repairing equipment on a crash basis. The bottom-line is that investing in the longevity of the facility will result in: enhanced employee culture, increased revenue for the company, and improved safety conditions for all individuals that enter the facility.
Gathering Information
Once the facility manager decides that they do not want their facility to be hindered by costly repairs, breakdowns, and increased safety risks, it is time to conduct the inspection. The key to a safe facility is periodic inspection and preventative maintenance. It is important that these inspections are performed on a time-based schedule and review the same elements each time, even if there are no apparent malfunctions or failures. Elements in the facility to inspect, that ensure compliance with OSHA standards include:
- Fire safety, such as testing carbon monoxide and smoke detectors
- Clear exits signs
- Walking and working surfaces free of tripping hazards
- Staircase and railing stability
- Medical and first aid kits
- Electrical hazards
- Plumbing concerns, such as leaks and water damage
- Pest inspections and control
- Portable ladders
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and clothing
Deciding On a Team
Commercial cleaning and maintenance professionals have personnel resources within their team to conduct an assessment. Proper facility care is straightforward to implement and should be seamless with the overall infrastructure. Although inspections are common tasks, it is recommended to consider hiring professionals, with adequate certifications and credentials from the International Facility Management Association (IFMA), to ensure the job is done properly. At Pegasus, we work hard to stay on top of the latest research to ensure we provide you with the best services possible. We have a tremendous amount of experience working in various industries, and we can use that experience to help you.
