Columnists

The relationship between the chemical content of building materials and occupant health is gaining renewed attention. This installment of "Renewable Energy" shifts its focus from alternative power to conversations about "chemicals of concern."

When the opportunity to transition from maintenance to management presents itself, what steps should a person take to be best prepared?

IFM is a very respected process; its practices and techniques should be learned fully. There is no short cut, and in most cases, an fm is simply passing through in the life of an organization; the person’s legacy is what is left behind for the next generation of career fm. So why isn't it widely practiced around the world?

When maintenance “strategies” are unplanned, organizations can experience premature equipment failure, reduction in occupant satisfaction, and higher prices for repairs and equipment replacements.

Are there any existing studies that examine the issue of vibration analysis? I'm thinking about adopting a program and would appreciate input.

From “chicken coops” to cathedrals, today’s data centers come in new shapes and sizes.

A tried and true procurement method gets a fresh look. This procurement method enables facility managers to complete numerous projects with one contract.

How do facility management professionals address specific landscaping issues that deal with ponds and marshes?

By installing this type of equipment, facility managers can meet (or exceed) required outdoor air ventilation rates without increasing energy consumption.

For facility management professionals, establishing a protocol for breastfeeding in the workplace presents its share of very practical challenges. An amendment to the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) requires workplaces to provide reasonable accommodations for nursing mothers.

Ideally, I would like to create a central deposit center to manage these systems with easy access. Do you know of a resource that would work with our many different operating systems (building and equipment) and compile this information in a central point for viewing and alarm conditions?

When making a decision regarding faucet selection for his facility, one manager struggles with battery life and maintenance questions. New "Tricks" Columnist Kevin Folsom helps out.

A net zero energy facility, or close to it, can be a reality for an increasing number of organizations. A recent report on the state of zero energy buildings explores the mainstream potential of this concept.

From fad to standard operating procedure, social media can be a facility manager's "BFF."

Veterans and rookies bridge the gap between the experienced technician and the new recruit.

In education facilities, acoustical considerations can impact learning.

On average, lightning kills more people than hurricanes and tornadoes combined every year.

In the second part of this examination, Carpenter breaks down the realities of finding the right player for the cleaning game in your facility.

What should facilities managers know and expect?

Making biodiesel for vehicles has been a focus for this material, but when properly treated, this waste product can be used to fuel a facility’s boilers.