Integrated Facilities Management | Facility Management Company https://www.enviroindia.in/blog Blog on Facility Management - EnviroIndia Thu, 25 Apr 2024 05:32:33 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=5.6 https://www.enviroindia.in/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/favicon-1-100x100.png Integrated Facilities Management | Facility Management Company https://www.enviroindia.in/blog 32 32 Understanding Integrated Facilities Management for Warehouses https://www.enviroindia.in/blog/understanding-integrated-facilities-management-for-warehouses/ https://www.enviroindia.in/blog/understanding-integrated-facilities-management-for-warehouses/#respond Thu, 25 Apr 2024 05:32:30 +0000 https://www.enviroindia.in/blog/?p=1386 In today’s fast-paced logistics landscape, warehouse efficiency reigns supreme. With rising customer demands for faster delivery times and increased product volume, warehouse operations need a well-oiled machine to function seamlessly. This is where Integrated Facilities Management (IFM) steps in as a game-changer. The Intricacies of Warehouse Management Warehouses are complex ecosystems juggling a multitude of …

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In today’s fast-paced logistics landscape, warehouse efficiency reigns supreme. With rising customer demands for faster delivery times and increased product volume, warehouse operations need a well-oiled machine to function seamlessly. This is where Integrated Facilities Management (IFM) steps in as a game-changer.

The Intricacies of Warehouse Management

Warehouses are complex ecosystems juggling a multitude of tasks.  Housekeeping plays a critical role. A clean and organized warehouse minimizes product damage, improves worker safety, and streamlines picking and packing processes. HVAC systems are another crucial element. Maintaining optimal temperatures ensures product integrity, particularly for temperature-sensitive goods. A malfunctioning HVAC system can lead to spoilage and significant financial losses. Regular pest control is equally important. Rodents and insects can damage inventory and contaminate products, posing health risks and regulatory concerns.

The Fragile Chain: Where Traditional Management Falls Short

Traditionally, warehouses manage these crucial aspects through individual contractors. However, this fragmented approach has its limitations.

. Communication Silos: Disparate teams may struggle to communicate effectively, leading to delays and inefficiencies.

. Data Disconnect: Scattered data from different service providers makes it difficult to identify trends, optimize operations, and make informed decisions.

. Increased Costs: Managing multiple contracts can be cumbersome and potentially more expensive than a consolidated approach.

The Power of Integration: How IFM Optimizes Warehouses

IFM offers a holistic solution by integrating all facility management services under one roof. Here’s how it empowers warehouses:

. Streamlined Operations: An IFM provider coordinates all services, ensuring seamless workflow and improved efficiency.

. Enhanced Communication: A single point of contact simplifies communication, eliminating delays and ensuring everyone is on the same page.

. Data-Driven Decisions: Integrated software platforms generate valuable data on all aspects of facility management. Warehouses can leverage this data to identify areas for improvement and make data-driven decisions to optimize operations and resource allocation.

. Cost Savings: Negotiating a single contract with an IFM provider can often lead to cost savings compared to managing multiple individual contracts.

. Reduced Risk: A comprehensive preventive maintenance program minimizes the risk of HVAC breakdowns or pest infestations, protecting inventory and minimizing downtime.

Beyond the Basics: Additional Benefits of IFM

IFM offers a wider range of benefits that cater to the evolving needs of modern warehouses:

. Sustainability Initiatives: IFM providers can implement sustainable practices such as energy-efficient lighting systems and waste management solutions, contributing to a greener warehouse operation.

. Safety and Compliance: IFM ensures adherence to safety regulations and compliance standards. This reduces the risk of accidents and hefty fines.

. Employee Well-being: A clean, safe, and well-maintained warehouse environment fosters a positive working environment and improves employee morale.

. Scalability: IFM solutions are scalable to accommodate changing warehouse needs. As your warehouse expands or contracts, the IFM provider can adjust services accordingly.

Conclusion: The Future is Integrated

In today’s competitive warehousing landscape, efficiency is paramount. Integrated Facilities Management offers a holistic approach that streamlines operations, optimizes costs, and minimizes risks. By integrating all aspects of facility management under a single umbrella, IFM empowers warehouses to achieve peak performance and ensure a future of smooth and efficient operations.

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Enhancing Residential Living: The Power of Integrated Facility Management https://www.enviroindia.in/blog/enhancing-residential-living-the-power-of-integrated-facility-management/ https://www.enviroindia.in/blog/enhancing-residential-living-the-power-of-integrated-facility-management/#respond Wed, 27 Mar 2024 10:24:00 +0000 https://www.enviroindia.in/blog/?p=1377 In today’s competitive real estate market, residential societies are constantly seeking ways to differentiate themselves and provide added value to their residents. One effective strategy that has gained momentum is partnering with integrated facility management companies. These companies go beyond basic upkeep, offering comprehensive solutions to streamline operations, enhance amenities, and elevate the overall living …

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In today’s competitive real estate market, residential societies are constantly seeking ways to differentiate themselves and provide added value to their residents. One effective strategy that has gained momentum is partnering with integrated facility management companies. These companies go beyond basic upkeep, offering comprehensive solutions to streamline operations, enhance amenities, and elevate the overall living experience with a focus on technical expertise.

Technical Prowess for Smooth Operations:

Integrated facility management companies aren’t just about aesthetics. They bring a team of skilled technicians to the table, ensuring the smooth running of critical systems like:

. Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs): Proper STP maintenance is crucial for waste management and preventing environmental hazards. These companies ensure efficient STP operation and timely repairs. They work in line with Govt. norms.

. Elevators: Regular elevator maintenance guarantees smooth operation and resident safety. IFMS companies employ qualified technicians for preventive maintenance and prompt response to breakdowns.

. Generators: Reliable backup power is essential during outages. Integrated facility management companies ensure generators are well-maintained and ready to function effectively during power cuts.

This technical expertise minimizes wear and tear on crucial equipment, preventing last-minute breakdowns and disruptions for residents.

Beyond Upkeep:  A Holistic Approach

One of the primary benefits of partnering with an integrated facility management company is improved maintenance and upkeep of the residential premises. These companies deploy skilled professionals to handle routine maintenance tasks such as landscaping, cleaning, and repairs. By ensuring that the property is well-maintained at all times, residents enjoy a clean, safe, and aesthetically pleasing environment to call home.

Security is another critical aspect where integrated facility management companies excel. With advanced security systems, manned patrols, and access control measures, these companies help create a secure living environment for residents. Enhanced security not only provides peace of mind but also adds value to the property by making it an attractive option for potential buyers or renters.

Housekeeping & Visitor Management are 2 critical areas that if not given due emphasis. From Cleaning, garbage removal and entry/exit control of courier boys and food delivery agents all are made to follow a due process, broken down to shared responsibility. Employees can only authorise the entry for a guest/delivery to their home.

In addition to the tangible benefits, partnering with an integrated facility management company can also give residential societies a competitive edge in the market. By offering a comprehensive package of services that address the diverse needs of residents, these societies stand out as desirable destinations for potential buyers or renters. This not only helps attract new residents but also contributes to the retention of existing ones, thereby ensuring long-term sustainability and success.

Conclusion: 

Elevating Residential Living

By combining technical expertise with a comprehensive range of services, integrated facility management companies play a vital role in enhancing the lives of residents. They ensure a smooth-running environment, prioritize safety and security, and foster a vibrant community.  In today’s competitive market, these factors give residential societies a distinct advantage, attracting residents who value a hassle-free, secure, and elevated living experience.

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Integrated Facility Management or Individual Services https://www.enviroindia.in/blog/integrated-facility-management-or-individual-services/ https://www.enviroindia.in/blog/integrated-facility-management-or-individual-services/#respond Tue, 14 Feb 2023 09:53:00 +0000 https://www.enviroindia.in/blog/?p=1270 Integrated Facility Management – A consolidation of various facility services rendered under one umbrella is gaining a lot of momentum. Organizations are switching towards adopting an Integrated Facility Management program rather than relying on individual contractors for different services. An Integrated Facility Management program helps the organization to maintain its facilities, buildings and equipment in …

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Integrated Facility Management – A consolidation of various facility services rendered under one umbrella is gaining a lot of momentum. Organizations are switching towards adopting an Integrated Facility Management program rather than relying on individual contractors for different services. An Integrated Facility Management program helps the organization to maintain its facilities, buildings and equipment in a way that offers the best value to the property owner and its employees alike. An IFM program allows to focus on the core business and leave the stress of streamlining work processes resulting in increased efficiency at the workplace.

Having a separate service provider for individual service can be a hassle for the organization in the long-run. Here, a well-structured integrated facility management comes into action and helps to eliminate various problems such as –

. Lack of communication with individual service providers
. Inefficiencies that disrupt the overflow
. More costs incurred for clients
. Dealing with numerous POCs to solve the issues

An Integrated Facility Management program overcomes all these issues by using latest technology and tools to facilitate all the Hard Services like Building Maintenance, Plumbing, Electrical, Lighting, HVAC as well as the Soft Services like Housekeeping, Horticulture, Sanitization etc. under one tab. Here’s what Integrated Facility Management Services can do for a business –

1. Reduces Operating Costs

The biggest perk of having appointed a facility management company is that the organization doesn’t have to delegate different facility work to different vendors. This defers any additional cost that a company would have to pay in exchange for individual services.

2. Enables Clear Communication

Integrated Facility Management enables clear communication between vendors and different departments. It eliminates the unnecessary step of going through the hassle of reporting to separate departments. A facility manager reports the issues directly to the management for prompt action and better decision.

3. Streamlines Business Operations

Even routine tasks can become stressful when there are different service providers involved. Since Integrated Facility Management offers different facility services under one umbrella, it streamlines the operations and helps to save time and money. It makes the daily tasks easier by putting them under the responsibility of one Facility Manager having the technical know-how to simplify them.

4. Improves Overall Productivity

When one manager is in charge of all the facilities then it automatically reduces the redundancy and potential overlap of services and professionals which results in an increase in overall productivity of the organization. A Facility Manager, by having a single budget for integrated facilities management reduces material and vendor costs.

5. Increases the Life of Assets

A facility management program results in the prolonged lifespan of facility’s assets by initiating proper maintenance and suggesting adequate repair of certain assets inside the facility which saves a considerable amount of money in the longrun.

Conclusion

One can choose the right service provider for the business by assessing the requirements of facility. In comparison with overseeing every task and every individual service multiple times, Integrated Facility Management lends increased visibility leading to effective management of teams, reduced operating costs, prompt responses to requests and greater focus on the bigger picture. It is a one stop shop for all the facility management needs of an organization and a proven way to streamline facility services and tasks. Implementing the changes across multiple sites gets easier while using an Integrated Facility Management Program.

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Misconceptions About Facility Management https://www.enviroindia.in/blog/misconceptions-about-facility-management/ https://www.enviroindia.in/blog/misconceptions-about-facility-management/#respond Wed, 18 Jan 2023 06:55:48 +0000 https://www.enviroindia.in/blog/?p=1260 While Integrated Facilities Management (IFM) has transformed the role and practices of facilities management for countless companies yet misconceptions surrounding its implementation, value and usage still persist. Some companies believe that they can cut costs by managing facilities on their own but the repercussions of such decision could end up harming the business in many …

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While Integrated Facilities Management (IFM) has transformed the role and practices of facilities management for countless companies yet misconceptions surrounding its implementation, value and usage still persist. Some companies believe that they can cut costs by managing facilities on their own but the repercussions of such decision could end up harming the business in many ways.

There are numerous misconceptions about facility management:

1. It’s more expensive

Verdict: False

Facility Management is not strictly a cost. It’s a benefit to the company, its people and the process. An integrated facility management program improves organizational capability to scale up/down efficiently. It reduces the operational burden by leveraging maintenance tasks in a timely and efficient manner.

A robust preventive maintenance plan not only maintains the assets but also helps in their optimum utilization. Deploying a facility management program saves time by increasing human involvement with tasks.

2. It’s a risk to job

Verdict: False

A facility management company should be seen as a partner and not as a threat. It makes the business more valuable by providing technology, specialized skill set, strategy and support teams. All these elements are needed for the smooth running of the business. A Facility Management is no exception in the rapidly changing world, considering the challenges in terms of changing technology, extensive training of staff and expert consultation, one can handle these changes but by teaming up with a facility management company, management can free up their time to think strategically and take better decisions.

3. Loss of visibility and control

Verdict: False

A business needs better tools and technology to get the most out of system’s built-in features. It helps to track and manage asset warranty and insurance information. These are much needed if business operates at different locations. A facility management company provides a managed platform and helps in gathering relevant information about facilities portfolio which helps in better visibility and central control.

4. Overshadow client brand

Verdict: False

One of the primary goals of a facility management company is to promote and support the client brand and to constantly deliver that goal, we require:

A technology platform shared by facility managers and technician

Consistent benchmarks for facility operations

A way to validate every work order completed at various locations

Easily accessible reports and KPIs

One can easily track and manage quality but it doesn’t sound realistic when there are thousands of work orders. With the right facility management services company, it is easy to validate every work order, record asset information and manage quality and performance at each location. Facility management company acts as a backstage operator that helps to actualize the smooth running of facilities.

5. Customers and employees at risk

Verdict: False

Working with a facility management company means bringing in third party technicians and hence the management may worry about –

What if technicians aren’t qualified to do the work?

What if technicians aren’t certified and insured?

A facility provider ensures to handle these concerns on their own, vetting and selecting providers who are qualified, insured with background check.

Conclusion

In today’s fast paced world, facility services play a vital role and smoothens the operation process. A good facility management program can resolve inefficiencies, identify saving opportunities and boost the bottom line.  It can be presented as a way to intelligently save money and create revenue in both the short and long term. Hence, it is wise to implement a facility management program for significant cost savings and improved safety performance. As the saying goes – the best time to start was yesterday; the second-best time is today.

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Township V/S Society – Facility Management https://www.enviroindia.in/blog/township-v-s-society-facility-management/ https://www.enviroindia.in/blog/township-v-s-society-facility-management/#respond Fri, 22 Jul 2022 10:44:00 +0000 https://www.enviroindia.in/blog/?p=1216 Developers offer a plethora of projects in gated communities as well as townships. Both have pros and cons that would differ from varied point of views of developers, investors, and buyers – they are modern, self-sufficient, and fully equipped. No longer are such properties available only to moneyed HNIs and NRIs, and the simple reason …

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Developers offer a plethora of projects in gated communities as well as townships. Both have pros and cons that would differ from varied point of views of developers, investors, and buyers – they are modern, self-sufficient, and fully equipped. No longer are such properties available only to moneyed HNIs and NRIs, and the simple reason why township projects are gaining demand is their affordability to the middle class.

Let us go through the offerings in Facility Management in Townships Vs. Facility Management in Residential Societies.

Facility Management in Township

. Facility Management in Townships is decided by the developer or builder of a particular township itself. As such, every facility in a township is overlooked by the builder’s employees.

. In Integrated Facility Management Services, the vendor provides end to end solutions for all the functionalities within the township which brings out better efficacy and efficiency and reduces backlogs.

. Such integrated facilities management services support all aspects of business operations and site management, including H/K, Security, Technical, Complaint management, Fire, Lift and DG maintenance.

. Facility management in townships encompasses multiple disciplines to ensure functionality, comfort, safety, and efficiency of the built environment by integrating people, place, process and technology.

. The key feature distinguishing a township from a society is that it covers multiple types of properties while a society covers only one specific type of residential building or a cluster of towers comprising a society.

. Townships are generally professionally-managed as they have substantial common areas and services which require better planning and cohesive execution.

. Families in these townships apart from staying in individual condominiums are overall part of a bigger picture which helps them to come together on common issues, organising events at a large scale.

Facility Management in Single Society

. In Societies, all the facilities are managed by different vendors. So, the upkeep of facilities like parking, gardening, and waste management are handled by separate agencies which may lead to non coordination and non cooperation leading to mis management.

. Generally, societies are self-managed by the RWA, which in turn takes CAM from residents to run the facilities. Many residents participate and many don’t. A professional handling is missed in running the daily affairs.

. The upkeep of amenities and AMC are usually neglected when a IFMS partner is not there which results in non functionality of appliances and may lead to an accident as well.

. There are fewer safety measures followed, which may result in unsafe conditions and an increase in the incidence of crime. A lack of robust Visitor Management System make the security vulnerable to trespassing and strangers.

. The upkeep of STP< WTP, DG genset and 24*7 left technician becomes a pain point for the RWA and residents. More so, when one of them goes on leave or quits, replacement takes time, in the mean time residents suffer.

. Horticulture, landscaping and beautification with Facade cleaning and club upkeep will impact the market value of the property and become less desirable to good gentry of residents taking up residences.

Conclusion

Township Management has come a long way and seems to be much more adaptable to the residents who wants to enjoy all the luxuries of city life with the modern and urban settlement without even stepping out. The key aspects of township management are the facilities it provides such as education, healthcare, security, waste management, organized labour etc. This makes life easier with the added benefit of relaxing commute.

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Adding Value To FM Hiring With A Holistic Background Check https://www.enviroindia.in/blog/adding-value-to-fm-hiring-with-a-holistic-background-check/ https://www.enviroindia.in/blog/adding-value-to-fm-hiring-with-a-holistic-background-check/#respond Mon, 27 Jun 2022 08:25:04 +0000 https://www.enviroindia.in/blog/?p=1212 Creating a secure learning environment for students should be the overarching goal of any educational institution. This can be ensured, in part with good quality security systems and infrastructure. What plays an even bigger role, however, is the staff employed at schools. Specifically, in the case of facility management, the staff deployed should not only …

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Creating a secure learning environment for students should be the overarching goal of any educational institution. This can be ensured, in part with good quality security systems and infrastructure. What plays an even bigger role, however, is the staff employed at schools.

Specifically, in the case of facility management, the staff deployed should not only be technically capable at their jobs but should also hail from a secure background. It is important to remain aware that the employees walking in every day are all potential risks to human security, electronic information and your institute’s reputation.

How much time and resources should you invest in hiring your facility management staff? They are indeed responsible for making day-day decisions for your building maintenance and also bring their own expertise to your institution. Their support is often what determines whether facilities are run efficiently and safely.

Most importantly, these staff members work amongst children, teaching staff, and other employees every single day. True for any business, risk prevention is always cheaper than damage control. Thus, hiring the right person for an FM job is equally important

Today, hiring and screening new employees involves many crucial steps, ones which are aimed at creating more secure educational institutions. Let’s take a closer look at these-

The evolution of hiring

Hiring has now become a multi-dimensional process. Recruiting employees for different facets of facility management has changed significantly over the years. Until a few decades back, maintenance work was simply categorized as “basic labour.”

Today, thanks to the integration of softwares in facility management, recruits must now be capable of handling a computer system and at times, skilled in basic coding too. For instance, heating and cooling systems in a boiler room are now operated via software, which recruits need to be well-versed with, in order to work in such spaces. 

Setting the right employee expectations

A job description is central to the hiring process as it sets out the skills and knowledge required by an individual to integrate into their role. It must include a list of formal duties and responsibilities, physical requirements and working conditions.

In order to include a background check at the recruitment stage itself, job descriptions today also include educational requirements, equipment knowledge, credentials and licensure. More importantly, this sets clear expectations between the employer and a potential employee.

Today, companies look beyond just skills when they hire new people. Facility managers in schools must be cognizant of the kind of people they are bringing into their teams. They typically hire across a vast range of roles, such as security guards, cleaning staff, technical workforce, and nannies.

These staff members must respect the institution of the school and be committed to the safety and security of school children and teachers. Therefore, the extra time and training that is now provided to newly recruited team members ultimately pays off.

A thorough review of references

Any applicant who is interested in joining an integrated facility management company must provide reliable references as part of their applications. This includes verification from those who have worked with the individual at their previous job and their previous employer. References provide a valuable second-person viewpoint on all the information that the applicant has included in their resume and interview. Each reference must be reviewed thoroughly before proceeding toward the next step in the hiring process.

A few applicants also choose to providecharacter references. These basically vouch for their interpersonal skills, their overall character and personality traits. People who have known the applicant for a long period of time and have interacted plenty are usually good choices for character references.

If an applicant’s professional and character references are both favourable, it naturally increases their chances of being selected. In other words, references are often a holistic representation of an individual and must be considered with care during the hiring process.

Going beyond a basic background check

As mentioned earlier, the thorough cross-checking of references goes a long way in the hiring process. However, in the case of people who are going to be working around children, it is extremely important that their criminal records are verified.

In case any potential employee has been convicted of a criminal offence in the past, then significant proof must be obtained regarding the clearing of their charges and the year the crime took place.

It also helps to periodically update these records even after someone has been hired. The school has every right to ask for regularly updated criminal records for their supporting staff members and it is the facility management company’s job to keep tabs on their immediate staff to provide this information.

Other important areas of employee verification include drug testing, address verifications and employment history.

Celebrating your staff

Once hiring is wrapped up successfully, it is important to ensure that the employees who have been brought into the company continue to stay on. Since facility management is so heavily team-driven, it is often demotivating to not receive the recognition one would like, as an individual employee. Staff members make an immense contribution to the efficient functioning of an entire school campus.

For this reason alone, they must be celebrated. Their efforts can be rewarded through employee recognition programmes. Members can be compensated in monetary terms, in the form of a yearly or quarterly bonus. They can also be given thoughtful gifts like flower bouquets, candles, and special books.

Such gestures create a lasting and positive employee-company relationship, and can ultimately help create better retention rates within the facility management company. Ultimately, this also ensures good quality of staffing in educational institutions and reliable members who choose to stay on with the school for years.

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Facility Management for the Next Generation of Buildings https://www.enviroindia.in/blog/facility-management-for-the-next-generation-of-buildings/ https://www.enviroindia.in/blog/facility-management-for-the-next-generation-of-buildings/#respond Fri, 06 May 2022 05:53:51 +0000 https://www.enviroindia.in/blog/?p=1205 In their latest report on the climate crisis, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has mentioned that we can still hope to escape the worst consequences of climate change, but are currently placed in a “now or never” situation where we must act immediately.  Responses to such findings as well as the changing nature …

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In their latest report on the climate crisis, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has mentioned that we can still hope to escape the worst consequences of climate change, but are currently placed in a “now or never” situation where we must act immediately. 

Responses to such findings as well as the changing nature of the climate crisis have been immense and proactive. These have not only come in the form of citizen demands and lifestyle changes but also, newer approaches to creating plans for more sustainable buildings.

What are sustainable or ‘green’ buildings? 

Green buildings are those which try to improve or simply maintain the quality of life and harmonize within the local climate, culture, and tradition of the surrounding environment. Creating such structures has been possible thanks to changes in the approach toward design, construction and offerings. 

A green building is also built with the aim to conserve resources and energy, and with the help of recycled materials. Additionally, it also looks at reducing human exposure to hazardous substances. 

So, how can facility management leverage sustainable buildings in a way that the environment receives its share of returns too?  Let’s have a look –

1.Leveraging Sustainability Analytics

One of the most accurate ways to get an in-depth understanding of any facilities’ performance is by conducting sustainability analytics. As a process, it gives you an overview of your building’s sustainability status. 

An audit can give you a glimpse of where there’s room for improvement within your facility. An energy audit, for instance, looks at the building’s current energy usage. The report from this audit can help facility managers chart out an economical strategy for saving power and costs in the future. 

Similarly, an EHS (Environment, Health, Safety) audit can help identify potential risks which might threaten the environment, safety and overall health of the tenants. A plan of action to minimise such risks can be charted out, based on the findings from the audit. 

Facility managers also encounter certain challenges which are specific to green buildings. Some of these include having minimum energy efficiency standard-compliant HVAC systems and other equipment, holding a LEED certification and keeping systems 30% more efficient in comparison to other buildings. To keep a check on these, integrated facility management companies carry out facility management audits

2.Update Your Facility Assets

The golden rule when it comes to any progress is that change is inevitable, but also necessary. Most old buildings are not carbon friendly by build or by design since they were conceptualised when concerns about the environment were not actively acknowledged. In other words, older structures are very likely to be equipped with assets that are not energy efficient. Updating one’s facility assets is perhaps one of the simplest ways to tackle this problem. 

So what exactly should a facility manager look at when taking stock of what all needs a definite upgrade? To begin with, switching to modern insulation and opting for new roofing can help reduce energy loss. A switch to renewable energy sources like geothermal or solar energy can significantly boost the facility’s sustainability score. It is also important to promptly replace HVAC units, legacy boilers and windows to ensure that energy is saved. 

3.Switch to Eco-Friendly Cleaning Supplies

A building itself may be sustainable by design, but our commitment to being green shouldn’t stop there. Maintaining good sanitation within shared spaces is a key responsibility of facility managers. However, most of the cleaning products used often contain unsafe ingredients, which can become an occupational hazard for cleaners and residents as well. 

In this case, a simple switch to eco-friendly cleaning agents can significantly reduce the number of toxic chemicals that a building releases into the environment. Naturally, it also reduces the likelihood of residents being exposed to hazardous chemicals. The key to finding greener cleaning products is to search for those which do not use volatile organic compounds (VOC) like phosphorus and nitrogen.

4.Employ Sustainable Contractors

A sustainable attitude can manifest itself in many different ways. While your building itself may have been built green, the smallest of processes can boost its status. Employing sustainable contractors is one easy change to make. They make use of energy-efficient tools and clean products in their work and are also likely to have prior experience with low-energy assets which are most likely installed in green facilities. 

Trusting contractors who actively inculcate sustainability in their work is one of the best methods of providing mindful employment while extending your larger commitment to environmental protection.

5.Adopt Planned Preventive Maintenance

Sustainable facilities require a strong system of checks and balances to be in place, with regard to the equipment being utilised. This creates the perfect conditions for employing planned preventive maintenance.

Not only does this type of maintenance keep a strict check on equipment functionality but it also identifies potential issues before they negatively impact any machinery. Thereafter, regularly scheduled repair work keeps most equipment inside buildings functioning at its best. It is essential to be more proactive when it comes to carrying out maintenance on older equipment. 

Ultimately, adopting planned preventive maintenance helps boost cost-efficiency, extend equipment lifespans and, of course, boost sustainability. 

Conclusion

Despite the serious nature of global warming and the resulting climate crisis, it’s rewarding to see active efforts being made to build for the future. Some changes are minor and can be implemented in a matter of days. This is how we can start preparing for tomorrow- one green building at a time.

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7 Biggest Myths around EV: Now Busted! https://www.enviroindia.in/blog/7-biggest-myths-around-ev-now-busted/ https://www.enviroindia.in/blog/7-biggest-myths-around-ev-now-busted/#respond Fri, 08 Apr 2022 09:36:07 +0000 https://www.enviroindia.in/blog/?p=1197 Electric Vehicles, often times referred to as EVs are the new talk of the town! Their USP being no carbon emissions and in turn being an efficient alternative to their petrol and diesel counterparts, that cause an irreversible amount of pollution. Acknowledging this paradigm change in the customers’ buying behavior and the benefits to the …

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Electric Vehicles, often times referred to as EVs are the new talk of the town! Their USP being no carbon emissions and in turn being an efficient alternative to their petrol and diesel counterparts, that cause an irreversible amount of pollution. Acknowledging this paradigm change in the customers’ buying behavior and the benefits to the environment, the government has also stepped in and is taking necessary steps with the private sector players to extend support for the required infrastructure for charging these vehicles.

Like anything new, it comes with its set of queries and doubts. Since it uses electricity, one is often skeptical about its range, speed, battery life etc. Here are some frequently thought about myths;

1. These Cars Can Run Out Of Electricity Mid-Way

Busted: With the high acceptance and increase in demand of the EVs, the efficiency of the EV is being worked upon. The features are being improvised upon to suit the market demand and also increase the range in one charge. On an average, at present the range is 312 kms in one full charge and ever-growing.

It pretty much covers the average daily requirement of the user. However, the range it covers is also highly dependent on the size of the battery.

2.These Cars are as Slow as Golf Carts

Busted: These cars are usually faster than their gasoline powered counterparts. The mechanism is such that the transition from stationary to speed is instant when the driver pushes down the accelerated pedal. Some top models are even close to being rated as the quickest production cars.

3.They are Way too Expensive to Purchase

Busted: In India, as the demand is increasing so is the price range of the vehicle. At present, it is not available at a very low range but it is quite comparable to an SUV. The cheapest being, the Mahindra E Verito starting at around 9 Lacs. There are also used cars available which would be of a lesser range and also because it is a new concept, won’t be used too much as well.

Also, in the longer run it works out more economical than its petrol and diesel counterparts. With the ever-increasing prices of the fuels, I.e. Rs 90 +/L and Rs 80+ /L respectively, there would be days ahead where petrol and diesel vehicles would be unaffordable for the middle-income group.

4.These Cars Need High Maintenance

Busted: These cars are known to be cleaner and easier to maintain than their petrol and diesel counterparts. The vehicle doesn’t require constant oil changes or tune-ups, and comparatively even the moving parts are far fewer to fail and replace. They use a one-speed transmission and parts like spark plugs, clutch, hoses, catalyst converters.

Also, given that the fuel used is a battery, there are less chances of the engine becoming as dirty as the that in the case of petrol and diesel fueled vehicles.

5.There aren’t Enough Charging Stations Yet

Busted: With the growth in demand of EVs and its many benefits for the environment, the government has joined hands with the private sector players to support the growing need of developing infrastructure to charge these EV vehicles.

At present, Delhi itself has 169 charging stations and 377 charging points. Market leaders like Tata Power aims to install 10,000 new charging stations in the next 5 years. Not only public charging stations, as per its recent MoU with Enviro – integrated facility management company there is an installation of 59 new charging points across 18 of its Vatika-owned properties across Gurgaon. This is in lieu of the increasing demand of EV infrastructure. By having the charging points at the premises, it adds to the convenience of the residents.

6.There is a High Risk of Electrocution      

Busted: The cars have been developed after a lot of R&D and are produced by renowned brands. Situations like the battery interacting with water or the driver getting electrocuted while charging the vehicle have been looked into and safeguarded against. One hasn’t heard of any such incidents as of now. Also, as compared to their petrol and diesel counterparts they are less inflammable and there are less chances of an explosion.

7.It Takes Very Long to Charge

Busted: It doesn’t take very long to charge an EV. Also, since cars do spend a lot of time stationed at one place, there is enough time that one has, to charge them at office, home or a mall. It takes only a few minutes to get a decent 20-30% charge.

With the growing demand and the development in infrastructure to support electric vehicles, there has also been growth in fast chargers which is the fastest way to charge your vehicle. On an average it provides between 6-100 kms of range in 20-30 minutes.

It is about time that people need to look into more environmentally friendly options rather than bank on sources of nature that are already depleting. Also, considering the level of pollution in the city the option of Electric Vehicles is a savior and should be seriously considered and invested into.

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How Do Security Services Complement FMS? https://www.enviroindia.in/blog/how-do-security-services-complement-fms/ https://www.enviroindia.in/blog/how-do-security-services-complement-fms/#respond Fri, 11 Feb 2022 06:42:00 +0000 https://www.enviroindia.in/blog/?p=1183 Given the uncertain and insecure times we live in, while deciding where to stay, the first question often is “How safe is it?”, “Are the people I am engaging with really trustworthy?” Also, one of the main reasons why many people prefer to stay in a gated society vis-a-vis an independent house on a plot, …

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Given the uncertain and insecure times we live in, while deciding where to stay, the first question often is “How safe is it?”, “Are the people I am engaging with really trustworthy?” Also, one of the main reasons why many people prefer to stay in a gated society vis-a-vis an independent house on a plot, is the security services it provides. There are trained guards stationed at the gates who ensure the security of the entire society, this is managed and planned by the facility management company that is a part of the society.

The threat to security isn’t just limited to physical security. Advancement in technology has further led to faulty data privacy. While filling up online registration forms and applications one is often left wondering whether my vital information such as, home address, contact number and other personal details are safe and if they are accessible to any miscreants. Here is also where facility management plays a vital role. Let’s see how;

I am renting a house in New Gurgaon that suits my pocket and my needs, but how safe am I?

With so many new societies coming up, with the most advanced features, modern design architecture and at the same time not being very heavy on the pocket one wants to explore the option for a better quality of life. But the very next question is, are these societies safe?

An integrated facility management servicescompany like Enviro has security as a holistic service, whereby the staff employed are regularly trained and updated on the latest methods and technology, they are regularly gauged on a level of preparedness. There is also more accountability vis-à-vis its larger peers, since every employee is a part of the company and not from a third-party agency.

What if I am not too sure about the package delivery person visiting my house?

Technology has made life very convenient and well-connected. I can sit in my home in one city and order for something from the other part of the country. Be it ordering food online or the fanciest of appliances, delivery partners have become a part of our lives. But this quite often also poses a threat to security, one has often heard that some miscreant posed as a delivery agent. But how does one sense trouble before the agent really reaches the house? And in case you are not at home, you won’t want some stranger to have an access to your home.

Cloud-based technology such as Visitor Management System allows you to not only be notified, with important details of the visitor, but also accept or decline the visitor entry request. You can remotely decide if you were expecting someone to come over or there is something suspicious. In case you are not at home, you can conveniently decline entry and be relaxed about a stranger lurking around your house in your absence.

How do I trust the home care service technician?

We are all dependent on the expertise of service technicians for the maintenance of our home. There is a constant wear and tear, starting from fixing the creaking door, the leakage in the tap and many other things within the house. Out of desperation for getting a quick solution to the problem, one searches for the nearest technician and the very next thought in one’s mind is, “Is it safe for a stranger to have access to my house?”, “Should I have waited for a trusted service company?”

The simple answer to this is finding a home service provider who caters to all your needs within your reach. The profile would have verified technicians with a background check done. Technology nowadays also allows the owner to track their whereabouts and timesheets. It is safer to opt for a specialized home service company such as #EnviroHomeServices.

I would rather have my service query solved within my society

While it is true that given the growing competition there is no dearth of home service providers in and around your vicinity. However, there are some day-to-day minor issues that one would want a quick solution to or may have some service related query. There are times when one has a service issue at unearthly hours and would want to have the complaint registered immediately for the quickest possible redressal.

There can be nothing better than having such services within your society. One also feels more secure to share the address with someone form inside and it’s easier to coordinate. An end-to-end facility management services company like #Enviro ensures the best complaint management service with a dedicated Client Service Cell (CSC).

When it comes to security, there should be no compromises, to feel secure, one should have complete access. It is not only important to have real-time data but in case the need arises, have an option to refer to data of any previous date. In these times of advanced technology, it is the onus of the facility management service provider to ensure a safe and secure environment for you.

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Disruptive Technological Trends in Facility Management 2022 https://www.enviroindia.in/blog/disruptive-technological-trends-in-facility-management-2022/ https://www.enviroindia.in/blog/disruptive-technological-trends-in-facility-management-2022/#respond Sun, 02 Jan 2022 06:56:00 +0000 https://www.enviroindia.in/blog/?p=1177 Isn’t it miraculous how a flying object, the size of a big bird goes on clicking a million pictures or take aerial shots from the tallest of mountains or a disk-shaped machine go on tirelessly cleaning the entire house without bumping into things, as though with a mind of its own. The advancement in technology …

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Isn’t it miraculous how a flying object, the size of a big bird goes on clicking a million pictures or take aerial shots from the tallest of mountains or a disk-shaped machine go on tirelessly cleaning the entire house without bumping into things, as though with a mind of its own. The advancement in technology year, after year has continually ‘made the impossible Possible’! Given the convenience and speed among the many other things its offers, one is more than willing to try and adopt it. The impact that technology has on Facility Management is no different! Wondering how a facility management company could adopt exciting and disruptive technology? Let’s explore;

1.Stealth Sensor on a Mission!

Nope, you won’t usually notice it while you roam in your building condominium or even your office area, but it’s very much there. A discreet sensor that is actively communicating the operational and health status of the assets it has been deployed for. It needs no human intervention at all and the advancement in sensor and battery technology have taken it several steps further by making it a wireless that can be setup in minutes requiring little to no configuration and maintenance.

The flexibility in its size also increases its scope and usage. It is also possible to retrofit smaller sensors on furniture, pipes and plant room equipment.

Did You Know? It is capable of gathering data for technical points that include granular ambient temperature, humidity as well as the technical building status for its HVAC, electrical and water treatment systems, including washroom usage and cleaning status.

2. Making Sense of the Data!

Whether automated or collected manually, one often wonders how to process humungous amounts of data and put to its best use. Another aspect that technology focuses on is to Save Time, that translates to Saving Operational Costs!

Imagine if the sensors could reduce the energy spends to 15% to 40% by just monitoring and accordingly adjusting the lights, ventilation and temperature in an office building according to how many people are present at the given time.

Did You Know? Building Management systems are further enhanced by Artificial Intelligence (AI), allowing the user to analyze data and have a deep understanding of the anomalies that arise; while offering an insight into its smooth functioning and also enabling the user to make predictions about the consumption patterns and usage.

3. Cloud: Bringing the World Together!

The one thing that technology has done is, brought the world together in unimaginable ways. Your services could reach someone sitting at the farthest end of the world. What it has also eased off is the aspect of accessibility of data and information at any time of the day.

For facility managers it simplifies data collection and its storage. It is possible for any number of residents/clients to access and connect on a single platform. Cloud-based services also mitigate the risk of loss of data as it is stored without having to create a backup.

Did You Know? The cloud-based Visitor Management System gives access to the resident to Accept or Decline visitor entry with one single app and also have visitor data archived.

4. Monitor Remotely and Save Big!

Gone are the days when one has to be physically present at a location or a site to get a job done or efficiently monitor it. It is now possible for you to track every single aspect of every resource involved in the process. The minutest of data is available with the click of a single button. Also, the scope of an error is nullified which might not be always the case with human intervention, since there is always a possibility of human error and judgement.

Smart sensors, cloud technology and data analytics can efficiently give you a detailed overview of all the assets and environmental parameters within all your buildings through sensor-based monitoring, which also saves the cost of deployment of manpower.

Did You Know? – It is possible to even gather sensitive data such as temperature, dampness and humidity and detect flooding in vacant buildings remotely, significantly saving resources, assets and costs. Something as unimaginable as Digital Retrofitting has totally mitigated the need for complete replacement of equipment and enabled predictive maintenance. The scope of technology in the facility management sector is limitless and, in many ways, it has enabled the integrated facility management services to perform unimaginable tasks in a jiffy and with minimal human intervention, also enabling a paradigm shift in cutting costs.

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