In today's unpredictable and rapidly changing world, emergency preparedness plans are more important than ever for Long Island facility managers. Whether it's natural disasters, medical emergencies, or security threats, the ability to respond quickly and effectively to crises can mean the difference between life and death, as well as have a major impact on a facility's reputation, liability, and financial stability.

Why Long Island Facility Managers Need Robust Emergency Preparedness Plans

Long Island is a dynamic and diverse region that experiences a wide range of natural disasters and emergencies, including hurricanes, flooding, winter storms, and power outages. In addition to these natural disasters, Long Island also faces the risk of terrorist attacks, cyber-attacks, and other security threats. These threats can pose significant risks to businesses and individuals, and as such, it is essential that facility managers have robust emergency preparedness plans in place to protect themselves, their tenants, and their assets.

In addition to protecting against physical threats, emergency preparedness plans also help businesses prepare for medical emergencies, such as heart attacks or accidents, and can minimize the impact of such incidents on the facility and its occupants. With an effective emergency preparedness plan, Long Island facility managers can respond quickly and efficiently to any emergency, reducing the risk of injuries or loss of life, as well as reducing liability.

Modern Solutions for Emergency Preparedness

Modern technology has made it easier than ever for Long Island facility managers to prepare for and respond to emergencies. By leveraging the latest technologies, such as smart building systems, security cameras, and mobile applications, facility managers can detect potential threats quickly and respond effectively in real time. These technologies can provide real-time alerts, allow for remote access to security systems, and enable the facility manager to manage emergency response teams and resources from a central location.

Long Island facility managers can also benefit from modern emergency notification systems, such as text alerts, email notifications, and push notifications. These systems can quickly alert employees, tenants, and other stakeholders of potential threats and provide them with clear instructions on how to respond.

Performing a Risk Assessment

To prepare for emergencies, Long Island facility managers should start by conducting a risk assessment to identify potential threats and vulnerabilities. This will help to identify potential threats that are most likely to impact their facility, as well as any weaknesses that could be exploited. Once risks have been identified, facility managers should develop an emergency preparedness plan that includes clear procedures and protocols for responding to different types of emergencies.

Preparing an Emergency Preparedness Plan

The emergency preparedness plan should include a clear communication plan that outlines how to communicate with employees, tenants, and emergency responders during an emergency. The plan should also outline the roles and responsibilities of different team members, including first responders, security personnel, and other staff.

In the face of potential or active threats around facilities, having an effective emergency preparedness plan in place can be the key to safeguarding people and property. Long Island facility managers can ensure that they are ready to respond quickly and effectively to a variety of crises by preparing a comprehensive emergency preparedness plan. Here are some specific guidelines for facility managers to consider when preparing an emergency preparedness plan:

Identify Potential Threats

The first step in developing an effective emergency preparedness plan is to identify the potential threats that your facility may face. These threats can include natural disasters such as hurricanes and floods, as well as man-made threats such as fires, power outages, and acts of terrorism. By understanding the threats that your facility is most vulnerable to, you can develop a plan that is tailored to the specific needs of your facility.

Establish Emergency Procedures

Once you have identified potential threats, the next step is to establish emergency procedures. This includes creating an evacuation plan, identifying emergency exits, and establishing communication protocols. Make sure to include guidelines for alerting authorities, emergency medical services, and other support services.

Train Employees

An effective emergency preparedness plan is only as good as the people who implement it. Training employees on emergency procedures is essential to ensure that everyone is prepared to act quickly and effectively in the event of an emergency. This can include regular training sessions, drills, and simulations that help employees practice their responses to different scenarios.

Develop a Communication Plan

Communication is a critical element of any emergency response plan. Establish a communication plan that includes backup systems in case primary methods of communication are disrupted. Make sure to include procedures for communicating with employees, emergency responders, and other key stakeholders.

Assess and Mitigate Risks

As you develop your emergency preparedness plan, it is important to conduct a risk assessment of your facility to identify any potential vulnerabilities. Once you have identified these vulnerabilities, take steps to mitigate the risks. This can include improving building security, installing backup power systems, and implementing fire suppression systems.

Test and Update the Plan

An emergency preparedness plan is a living document that should be regularly tested and updated. Conduct regular drills and simulations to ensure that employees are prepared to respond to emergencies, and make updates to the plan as needed based on new information or changes to your facility.

Facility managers should regularly review and update their emergency preparedness plans, taking into account changes in the threat landscape and lessons learned from past emergencies. It is also important to conduct regular training and drills to ensure that all staff are familiar with emergency procedures and can respond effectively in an emergency situation.

By following these guidelines, Long Island facility managers can prepare a comprehensive emergency preparedness plan that is tailored to the specific needs of their facility. With a robust plan in place, facility managers can respond quickly and effectively to potential and active threats, safeguarding people and property and ensuring the continuity of business operations.

In today's rapidly changing world, Long Island facility managers must be prepared for a wide range of potential emergencies, including natural disasters, medical emergencies, and security threats. By having robust emergency preparedness plans in place and leveraging modern technologies and solutions, facility managers can quickly and effectively respond to emergencies, reducing the risk of injuries, loss of life, and liability. By conducting a risk assessment, developing a clear emergency preparedness plan, and regularly reviewing and updating the plan, facility managers can ensure they are prepared for any emergency that may arise.

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Accessibility is an important aspect of facility management, particularly in Long Island, where a significant portion of the population consists of individuals with disabilities. As a facility manager, it's crucial to provide a safe, accessible environment for all tenants, including those with disabilities. Improving accessibility in your building requires careful planning, attention to detail, and a thorough understanding of the regulations and requirements that govern accessibility. In this article, we will explore specific ways in which facility managers can retrofit their buildings and infrastructure to improve accessibility for their tenants.

Conducting an Accessibility Audit

The first step in retrofitting buildings and infrastructure for improved accessibility is to conduct an accessibility audit. An accessibility audit will assess the current accessibility of the building or infrastructure and identify areas that need improvement. This information will be used to develop a plan for retrofitting the building or infrastructure to improve accessibility.

Accessible Entrances

The entrance of a building is one of the most crucial components of accessibility. The entrance should be easily accessible and provide ample space for individuals with disabilities to enter and exit the building safely. To improve accessibility, facility managers can consider installing automatic doors, adding ramps or lifts, and providing ample space for wheelchairs to maneuver. In addition, the entrance should have visible and easily accessible signage to guide individuals with disabilities to their destination.

Accessible Restrooms

Restrooms are another important area to consider when retrofitting a building to improve accessibility. Facilities should have accessible restrooms that include features such as grab bars, ample space for maneuvering, and a sink and toilet that are accessible to individuals using wheelchairs. It's also important to ensure that doorways are wide enough to accommodate individuals using wheelchairs and that the room is well-lit and free of obstacles.

Improving Signage and Wayfinding

Signage and wayfinding play a crucial role in improving accessibility for individuals with disabilities. Poor signage and wayfinding can lead to confusion and frustration, and ultimately, a lack of access to certain areas of the building. To improve accessibility, facility managers can retrofit the building with clear, concise, and easily visible signage. This may include adding braille signs, large print signs, or audio signs for individuals who are visually impaired. Additionally, it's important to ensure that signs are placed at a height that is easily visible to individuals who use wheelchairs.

To improve wayfinding, facility managers can consider installing directional signage, such as floor-mounted arrows or wall-mounted directional signs, and providing clear paths of travel throughout the building. This includes ensuring that pathways are unobstructed, doorways are wide enough for individuals using wheelchairs, and elevators and ramps are clearly marked.

Improving Accessibility in Common Areas

Common areas in a building, such as lobbies, lounges, and elevators, must be accessible to all individuals, including those with disabilities. To improve accessibility, facility managers can consider installing elevators or lifts, ensuring that doorways are wide enough for individuals using wheelchairs, and providing ample space for maneuvering. Additionally, it's important to ensure that common areas are well-lit and free of obstacles, and that accessible seating is provided.

Accessible Parking

Accessible parking is an important aspect of accessibility for individuals with disabilities who drive or are driven to the building. To improve accessibility, facility managers can consider reserving accessible parking spaces for individuals with disabilities, ensuring that the spaces are clearly marked, and providing ample space for individuals using wheelchairs to maneuver. Additionally, it's important to ensure that sidewalks and pathways leading to the building are clear and free of obstacles.

Creating a Safe and Accessible Environment for All Tenants

Improving accessibility in Long Island buildings requires careful planning, attention to detail, and a thorough understanding of the regulations and requirements that govern accessibility. By retrofitting the building and infrastructure to improve accessibility, facility managers can create a safe, accessible environment for all tenants, including those with disabilities. By implementing the strategies outlined in this article, such as installing ramps and elevators, modifying restrooms, improving signage and wayfinding, and updating lighting, facility managers can make significant progress in making their buildings accessible for all. Additionally, considering new technologies and innovations in accessibility, such as smart home systems, can help make the building even more accessible and user-friendly for people with disabilities.

Ensuring accessibility in Long Island buildings is not only a legal requirement but also a moral obligation to provide equal access and opportunities for everyone. By retrofitting buildings and infrastructure to improve accessibility, facility managers can provide a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment for all tenants, regardless of their abilities. With the right approach and attention to detail, every building can be made accessible and meet the needs of people with disabilities.

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Facility managers in Long Island are facing increasing pressure to reduce water usage and costs in their buildings. Water scarcity, rising water prices, and increasing regulations are all contributing factors to this pressure. However, by implementing certain strategies, facility managers can significantly reduce water usage and costs in their buildings.

Conducting a Water Audit

The first step in reducing water usage and costs is to conduct a water audit. A water audit is a process of evaluating a building's water usage to identify areas of inefficiency and opportunities for savings. A water audit can be conducted by a professional auditor or by a facility manager using a self-audit guide.

During a water audit, the auditor will examine the building's water usage data and conduct a physical inspection of the building's water systems, including plumbing fixtures, irrigation systems, and HVAC systems. The auditor will also look for leaks and other water-wasting practices.

Fixing Leaks

One of the most common causes of water waste in buildings is leaks. Leaks can occur in a variety of places, including toilets, faucets, and irrigation systems. A single leaky toilet can waste thousands of gallons of water per year. Fixing leaks is one of the most cost-effective ways to reduce water usage and costs.

Toilet Leaks

Toilet leaks are one of the most common causes of water waste in buildings. Toilets can leak in a variety of ways, including through the tank, the bowl, and the flush valve. Toilets can also waste water by running continuously.

Facility managers can easily check for toilet leaks by adding a small amount of food coloring to the tank and observing if any color appears in the bowl. If color appears, it is likely that there is a leak. Toilet leaks can be fixed by replacing the flush valve or by adjusting the float.

Faucet Leaks

Faucet leaks are another common cause of water waste in buildings. Faucet leaks can be caused by worn out washers, O-rings or corroded valves. Facility managers can check for faucet leaks by observing the water flow from each faucet or by using a flow meter. Faucet leaks can be fixed by replacing the washer, O-ring or valve, or by hiring a professional plumber.

Retrofitting Plumbing Fixtures

Another strategy for reducing water usage and costs is to retrofit plumbing fixtures. Retrofitting involves replacing older, water-wasting fixtures with newer, water-efficient models. Water-efficient fixtures, such as low-flow toilets, faucets, and showerheads, can significantly reduce water usage and costs.

Low-Flow Toilets

Low-flow toilets are designed to use less water per flush than older toilets. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that low-flow toilets can save a building up to 20,000 gallons of water per year. Facility managers can retrofit toilets by installing low-flow toilet conversion kits or by replacing older toilets with new low-flow models.

Low-Flow Faucets and Showerheads

Low-flow faucets and showerheads are designed to use less water than older models. The EPA estimates that low-flow faucets can save a building up to 700 gallons of water per year, and low-flow showerheads can save up to 2,500 gallons of water per year. Facility managers can retrofit faucets and showerheads by installing low-flow aerators or by replacing older models with new low-flow models.

Reducing Water Usage in Landscaping and Lawn Sprinklers

Landscaping and lawn irrigation are major sources of water usage in many buildings. However, there are several strategies that facility managers can implement to reduce water usage in these areas.

Irrigation Audits

An irrigation audit is similar to a water audit but specifically focuses on the irrigation systems of a facility. An irrigation audit can identify areas of inefficiency and opportunities for savings in the irrigation system. It can also help identify leaks, broken or clogged heads, and overspray. Many cities and water utilities offer free or low-cost irrigation audits to their customers.

Smart Irrigation Controllers

Smart irrigation controllers are devices that automatically adjust the watering schedule of an irrigation system based on weather conditions. These devices use sensors to measure the amount of moisture in the soil and weather forecasts to determine when and how much to water. Smart irrigation controllers can significantly reduce water usage by avoiding unnecessary watering during periods of high rainfall or humidity.

Drought-Tolerant Plantings

Another strategy for reducing water usage in landscaping is to use drought-tolerant plants. Drought-tolerant plants are able to survive with minimal water and are a good option for areas with low rainfall or water restrictions. Facility managers can also use mulch, which helps retain moisture in the soil and reduces the need for watering.

Rainwater Harvesting

Rainwater harvesting is the collection and storage of rainwater for later use. This method can be used to water landscaping, irrigation, and even toilets and washing machines. Rainwater harvesting systems can be as simple as a rain barrel or as complex as a large underground cistern.

Reducing water usage and costs in Long Island facilities is becoming increasingly important due to water scarcity, rising water prices, and increasing regulations. Facility managers can reduce water usage and costs by conducting a water audit, fixing leaks, retrofitting plumbing fixtures, conducting irrigation audits, implementing smart irrigation controllers, using drought-tolerant plants, and harvesting rainwater. By implementing these strategies, facility managers can significantly reduce water usage and costs in their buildings and in landscaping and lawn irrigation areas, ultimately helping to save costs.

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Natural light is an important resource for both the physical and mental well-being of office workers. It can improve moods, alleviate stress, increase alertness and productivity, and even help with regulating your natural sleep-wake cycle. In addition, natural light can reduce eyestrain and fatigue, leading to a healthier and more positive work environment.

Strategies for Maximizing Natural Light in Open Office Spaces

In open office spaces, where natural light may not always be readily available, it is important to design the layout and make use of available techniques to maximize the amount of natural light present. Here are some strategies to consider:

1. Design the layout to take advantage of window placement and orientation. Positioning desks and other work areas near windows can help bring natural light into the center of the office. Facing most windows towards the south will also help maximize the amount of natural light that enters the space.

2. Use skylights and other techniques to bring natural light into the center of the office. Skylights can be an effective way to bring natural light into areas that do not have windows, or where windows are not practical. Other techniques such as light tubes and sun pipes can also be used to bring natural light into the center of the space.

3. Use reflective surfaces and light-colored finishes to amplify natural light. Reflective surfaces and mirrors, light-colored ceilings, walls, and flooring, will help to increase the amount of natural light present in the space. This can be particularly effective in areas that are farther from windows or have limited access to natural light.

4. Make use of light shelves and other passive solar design techniques. Light shelves are horizontal projections that are mounted on the exterior of a building near the windows. They reflect natural light back into the space, helping to distribute it more evenly. Atriums and clerestory windows are also good passive solar design techniques that can also be used to bring natural light into the center of a space.

5. Consider strategies for reducing the need for artificial lighting. A great way to decrease energy consumption and the need for artificial lighting is to replace overhead lighting with task lighting. This can help direct light where it is needed most and reduce the amount of light that is wasted. In addition, using energy-efficient light bulbs and sensors that turn off lights when they are not needed can help reduce energy consumption.

6. Use smart lighting systems to optimize natural light. Smart lighting systems can be programmed to adjust the intensity and color temperature of artificial light based on the amount of natural light present in the space. This can help create a more pleasant and productive work environment, while also reducing energy consumption.

Examples of Successful Projects that Maximized Natural Light in Open Office Spaces

Some successful examples of open offices that have successfully maximized natural light to improve productivity and well-being include the New York Times' headquarters in Midtown Manhattan. This open office space features a massive atrium that brings natural light to the center of the building while maintaining a visual connection to the outdoors. Similarly, the Johnson Controls headquarters in Glendale, Wisconsin uses a combination of skylights, light shelves, and clerestory windows to bring natural light into the space, resulting in energy savings of more than 50%.

Maximizing natural light in open office spaces can have a variety of benefits for employee productivity and well-being, as well as positively impacting overall energy consumption and sustainability. By taking advantage of window placement and orientation, using skylights and other techniques, reflective surfaces and light-colored finishes, and smart lighting systems, you can create a brighter, healthier, and more productive work environment.

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Touch-free plumbing features have increased in popularity in recent years. Bathrooms are notoriously germy, featuring up to about 20,000 pathogens per ten square centimeters. These germs may not lurk where you think, either -- sink handles alone can hold a staggering 600 times the germ load of a toilet handle. The fewer surfaces anyone needs to touch in there, the better. Touch-free fixtures protect users by giving them the ability to operate taps, soap, hand driers, and more without having to physically come in contact with them.

The Benefits of Touch-Free Fixtures

In addition to protecting users from getting bacteria, fungi, and viruses on their hands, touchless bathroom fixtures have some additional benefits. Sensors are smaller and less obtrusive than traditional fixtures. This might not be a big deal for a soap dispenser, for example, but can make a difference when you're talking about toilet handles or sink taps.

Less obtrusive fixtures mean fewer nooks and crannies where germs can hide. A small, flat sensor is much easier to clean around and properly disinfect than a bulky knob. Touch-free sensors also help cut down on waste. Infrared sink sensors only allow water to flow when hands are directly under the faucet, rather than wasting water for the time it takes to turn the faucet on and off manually. This might not seem like much, but a dripping faucet can waste hundreds of gallons of water every month. Imagine how much gets wasted by conventional taps in high-traffic restrooms! Touchless fixtures also have an aesthetic benefit. They can make a bathroom look cleaner and more modern, which impacts the perception of the people using it.

If a bathroom looks cleaner, people generally feel more comfortable and confident about using it. Piggybacking on this, touchless faucets can also contribute to general occupant health. If people don't feel comfortable using a sink, they may choose to just use hand sanitizer or even skip cleaning up entirely. While hand sanitizer is fine in an emergency, it's not a substitute for soap and water. Touch-free fixtures encourage better hygiene, which leads to fewer germs spread by hands.

Retrofitting Older Restrooms

Say you're convinced of the benefits of touch-free fixtures but are working with a dated restroom. What do you do now? Will you have to gut the entire place and rebuild? The good news is, it's completely possible to retrofit an older bathroom with touchless tech. Here's how:

1. Come up with a goal.

What is the most appropriate solution for your facility? Do you want to go completely touch-free, or just install some sink sensors to cut down on water waste and encourage hand washing? Once you know what your ideal facility restroom looks like, you can start taking the steps to achieve it.

2. Get acquainted with your current plumbing.

What kind of fixtures do you already have? How do your faucets mount, on the wall or the counter? Do they need three holes, or one? It's time to get to know the specs of all of the fixtures you want to replace. This will make it a lot easier and less expensive to do so.

3. Determine your most used restrooms.

If cost is an issue, you may wish to avoid having to retrofit all of your restrooms at once. Figure out which one gets the most use since this is also the one likely to benefit the most from touchless fixtures. Focus your efforts there first.

4. Contact your manufacturers.

Plumbing fixtures can be finicky, and not just from a technical standpoint. Colors can differ from manufacturer to manufacturer, disrupting the look of your restroom. You might want to start by contacting the manufacturer of your existing fixtures and see if they offer any touch-free options. If they do, these options will likely be easier to swap out for the ones you already have. They may even be able to help you retrofit your existing fixtures without having to replace them. If they don't, it's time to shop around.

Take the specs of your existing fixtures and see what's available. You'll also want to pay attention to things like the ease of installation -- if your fixtures take hours to put in, your facility's restrooms could be out of commission for a while. If you're using a facility management software platform that allows it, you may also want to ensure that your touchless fixtures are compatible and can be integrated into the interface you use for everything else. Beyond just detecting the presence of a user, some modern fixtures also allow you to control the water's flow rate, temperature, and more.

Restrooms with touch-free plumbing fixtures are cleaner, sleeker, more efficient, and easier to maintain than those without. If you're currently working with a facility with older plumbing, you don't have to miss out. You can easily retrofit your existing restrooms with infrared sensors or motion detectors as long as you follow a few simple steps.

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There's more to insulation than just fiberglass. While it's one of the most commonly used ways to insulate a building, there is a huge variety of methods and materials that may be more appropriate for your facility's needs. If you're building a new facility, overseeing an addition, or just re-insulating an older building, here's what you should know about your options:

1. Fiberglass batt

Fiberglass insulation comes in those familiar cotton-looking rolls, usually in pink or yellow. A lot of commercial and residential buildings in New York use this type of insulation.

Pros

Fiberglass batt is inexpensive, easy to install, and very safe as long as it's installed properly. It's also good at keeping out moisture, pests, drafts, and unwanted sounds, and doesn't require special ventilation. It's also hypoallergenic.

Cons

If it isn't properly installed, the fiberglass dust can cause eye, skin, and airway irritation. It also needs to be properly sealed and, in some cases, vented. If it isn't fully enclosed, its ability to protect against drafts drops dramatically. This kind of insulation tends to sag over time, which leaves uninsulated gaps in walls and decreases its effectiveness.

2. Fiberglass board

Fiberglass board is similar to batt in many ways but comes as a rigid board instead of a flexible roll. It's made by compressing conventional fiberglass insulation until it's stiff.

Pros

The benefits of fiberglass board are similar to fiberglass batt insulation. It also doesn't sag as easily, so it tends to retain its efficiency for a longer period of time. You may also be able to find fiberglass board with a reflective coating, which helps further reduce heat transfer by reflecting it away from the building.

Cons

Installing fiberglass board is a bit more complicated, and therefore more expensive. You need to cut around pipes and wiring, then seal around these cuts.

3. Blown-in insulation

Loose-fill insulation is made of cellulose or recycled fiberglass material. It's called "blown-in" insulation because it doesn't come in boards or batts -- it needs to be blown into uninsulated spaces.

Pros

Since blown-in insulation is loose, it can be blown into all kinds of tiny nooks and crannies. Small gaps around pipes, for example, are easy to insulate with this method and provide better draft protection and reduction of airflow. You can also layer blown-in insulation over existing insulation, so you don't have to go through tearing out all of the old stuff to re-insulate your building. Blown-in insulation can also work through smaller access areas. If you're re-doing old insulation, you don't need the same size access area as you would with a whole fiberglass batt. A hole big enough to permit the blower's hose is good enough. Cellulose-based blown-in insulation is biodegradable.

Cons

Blown-in insulation requires special equipment to install. Since it's made up of small pieces, it can also shift or drift over time. This is especially true in attic spaces, where the airflow from HVAC systems can cause it to move. It's also possible to blow in too much insulation, which may cause ceilings to sag. Blown-in cellulose is also a potential substrate for mold.

4. Spray foam

Spray foam involves spraying a special expanding foam onto surfaces. It's often used under roofs.

Pros

Spray foam is very efficient. It expands to fill spaces, so there are virtually no gaps if it's properly applied. It's also water-resistant, and virtually mold-proof, and some compounds include a scent deterrent for pests. Spray foam also has the longest working life when compared to other types of insulation. Where fiberglass needs replacing every 15-20 years or so, spray foam can potentially last up to 80 without losing effectiveness over time.

Cons

Proper installation is key. If any gaps or spaces get missed, this creates a reservoir where water may potentially collect and damage support structures. Some types of spray foam may also shrink over time, lowering their effectiveness and creating new gaps and air spaces. Since spray foam has to expand and harden, it needs a few days to properly cure. It also off-gasses, so you may not be able to use areas of your facility while they're curing. Since spray foam requires special equipment and experience, you need to find a certified contractor to install it. This also makes it more expensive than other types of insulation, though this may be offset by its efficiency and longevity. There's no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to insulating. Long Island experiences warm summers, but also regularly gets hit with very cold, snowy winters. If cost, ease of installation, and potential downtime are factors for your facility, it's worth weighing your options carefully before committing.

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If you've been keeping up with industry news, chances are you've heard about "flex spaces." What are they, and how can you make them work for your office?

What is a flex office space?

With more employees working from home, businesses have had to reimagine how they use their office spaces. Enter the flex space. Put simply, a flex space is an area without a set function. Since more and more offices are introducing hotdesking or desk hoteling, there isn't a need for a lot of dedicated floorspace for desks as there used to be. After removing extraneous desks and moving things around for more efficiency, there's often space left over. This space can become anything you desire. If it's well-designed, it can even transform into what you need at a moment's notice.

Tips for Designing the Perfect Flex Space

1. Create or keep some dedicated workspace.

Flex space is great, but don't throw out the baby with the bathwater -- it can still help to maintain some boundaries within the flex space. Either keep some as a dedicated workspace or designate some. Make this a calming area where people can get their work done without distractions -- you may wish to invest in some soundproofing to help audially and visually separate this area from the remainder of the flex space.

2. Select versatile furnishings.

Part of the charm of many flex spaces is that they don't resemble traditional offices. Choose comfortable furnishings, like armchairs and sofas, designed to be moved and rearranged easily. That lets your flex space go from a conference room to an intimate gathering for small groups to brainstorm. It's also a good idea to invest in adjustable standing desks and other furniture that can adapt to the varying needs of its users.

3. Forget the panopticon.

Many traditional office spaces use rows of desks or even long tables that allows managers to keep a close eye on employees. While it used to be conventional wisdom that packing more employees into an area was a more efficient use of space, this is often untrue -- these types of seating arrangements lead to distractions, loss of focus, and irritation. When you're designing a space, forget what you know about efficiently packing a traditional office. While you might be able to fit a greater quantity of workers in a traditional seating arrangement, that doesn't automatically mean that they'll be putting out more or better-quality work.

4. Establish an area for calls.

Piggybacking on the topic of distraction, few things are as annoying as having to overhear someone else's loud phone call. With this in mind, it's a good idea to set up designated call areas with soundproofing to absorb the worst of the noise. Employees who need to take calls will be able to do so, and neither they nor their co-workers will have to worry about distracting noises.

5. Explore your natural lighting options.

Using as much natural light as possible will help your facility save power, which means saving money. Natural light is also better for employee productivity positively contributes to mood, and is less likely to cause headaches and eye strain than fluorescent lighting. Open the shades in the morning and at sunset, and opt for light-filtering curtains when the sunlight is at its strongest.

6. Don't forget the green.

The color green is important for humans. Research has shown that people who suffer from chronic pain (including migraineurs) can benefit from exposure to green light. This includes the light bouncing off of green objects. Plants also help filter the air, improve mood, and absorb some sound. Choose low-maintenance plants that will thrive in the lighting and humidity conditions that already exist in your flex space.

7. Provide indicators.

Flex spaces allow employees to work comfortably, collaborate easily, and get their work done without distraction. One big way to help this is to incorporate status indicators into your flex space design. These can be simple -- a little flippable sign or desktop flag that says "Do Not Disturb" can go a long way toward letting workers work without interruption.

8. Incorporate some outdoor space.

During the height of the pandemic, many facility managers who were able to do so moved some of their facility operations outside. The outdoors has all of the benefits of the best office spaces: It's beautiful, mood-boosting, full of plants, full of fresh air, and naturally lit, all without costing any money to power. Set yours up with attractive, comfortable outdoor furniture and a rug. It can end up increasing productivity in the long run by giving workers a physical and mental refresh. A flex space is a space that's free from traditional rules of what an office should look like. Instead, it's able to adapt to the needs of the people who use it, allowing them to put out their best work. With these tips, you'll be well on your way to creating a flexible, efficient, enjoyable space for your office.

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Nobody likes feeling spied on, but the benefits of setting up video surveillance can definitely outweigh the bad. From safety to savings, here are some of the reasons why you may want to consider setting up cameras for the sake of your employees and your facility:

1. They deter vandals and petty criminals.

Placing visible security cameras can serve as a visual deterrent for criminal activity. Nobody wants to commit a crime when they know they'll be caught, and video footage drastically increases the odds against them. Even if you aren't able to set up an actual functioning video camera in a specific location, a simple battery-operated "dummy camera" outfitted with a red light and a basic servo motor can be convincing enough to a potential criminal.

2. They can protect you from liability.

Security cameras have come a long way from the grainy, silent, black-and-white footage of a few decades ago. Today, even basic models are good at capturing high-quality video and audio. If you need to gather evidence in a liability case, video surveillance footage can protect you by providing a clear record of what happened. Video can be the difference between a successful defense and an expensive penalty.

3. They can provide a thorough incident record.

Modern surveillance cameras can automatically upload their recordings to a local hard drive or network server. This lets facility managers quickly search through and access the recordings from a specific day, time, and location. If there's ever a situation in which it's necessary to have a visual record of what happened that day, it's available with just a few clicks. Some camera software has meta tagging enabled. This means that you can search for something specific -- like a blue car -- and the algorithm will automatically narrow down the list of videos to those that only contain blue objects roughly the size or shape of a car.

4. They can reduce the need for security personnel.

If you currently have security personnel to patrol your facility, you probably know that their abilities are limited -- they can keep an eye on things, but they're not able to be everywhere at once and often still have to call law enforcement or emergency services to deal with problems anyway. Video surveillance effectively gives you the ability to have your entire facility under constant observation, without the need for actual security personnel. This means that facility managers can save some money by hiring fewer security guards and make their operations safer by only assigning physical guards to the highest priority areas.

5. They can let you access video streams remotely.

Video surveillance cameras can provide footage that's accessible through phones, tablets, laptops, or other devices. Even if you aren't physically in the facility, you can still keep an eye on things, look through old videos, or search for important data. If you manage multiple facilities, the ability to remotely view any of them with the tap of a button can be very helpful.

6. They can provide data.

There are a lot of ways for facility managers to collect things like traffic flow and usage data, and video surveillance can add an important dimension to that. The data provided by surveillance cameras can let facility managers know how many people are using their facility, and how. They show aspects of foot traffic patterns that other technology may miss, like bottlenecks. As more facilities have settled into remote work options like desk hoteling, cameras also provide valuable facility usage data. Facility managers can use this to optimize their spaces more effectively than relying on other metrics alone.

7. They can help troubleshoot problems.

Consider this scenario: You have automatic smoke detectors and fire suppression technology. Your facility management software tells you that a fire started in a storage area at 12:00 PM and was quickly dealt with. While this is helpful, it doesn't give you much to go on. How did the fire start? How could it be prevented in the future? An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, but that only matters when you're in a position to prevent a problem in the first place. That's where video surveillance comes in. You can check the logs to see exactly where and how the flames originated and determine how to keep a fire from starting again.

8. They can gather evidence outside of your facility.

One of the ways that video surveillance can help doesn't actually have much to do with the facility itself. If a serious crime, like an assault or kidnapping, happens where your cameras can catch it, your video feed may be able to identify the perpetrator or their vehicle and provide a record of the incident. Modern video cameras can capture images clear enough to identify faces, license plate numbers, and other important details. Video surveillance is a controversial topic. Overall, it carries more benefits than detriments. A few video cameras can make your facilities safer, save money, and provide important data for liability suits, criminal cases, and even facility optimization. If you're still on the fence, cameras are easy to set up and use.

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After COVID, preparing for cold and flu season may seem almost quaint by comparison. Don't be fooled, however -- influenza is still potentially deadly, and colds are highly transmissible. The common cold alone is estimated to cost the US economy roughly $40 billion every year, and that doesn't even account for the danger and additional costs faced by people who are immunocompromised, elderly, or who have underlying health conditions that place them at risk of serious illness. As a facility manager, you want to keep your employees, tenants, and guests healthy. Here's how you can prep for cold and flu season:

1. Encourage your employees to get vaccinated.

There's no vaccine for the common cold, but there's one for influenza. A flu shot is the best way to make sure that your workers stay healthy. Even when the flu shot doesn't prevent the flu, it can still keep it from becoming a serious illness. You may even want to contract with a healthcare facility to have a "flu vaccine" day at your facility. That way, you can ensure that all of your employees that are able to receive a vaccine do so.

2. Create signage.

Even without a vaccine, there are some behaviors that can help curb the spread of respiratory viruses. You may want to make signs reminding employees, tenants, or guests to:

• Always cover sneezes with a tissue.
• Cover coughs by coughing into their elbows, not their hands.
• Wash hands frequently.
• Wash every part of their hands, including the palms, nails, and between their fingers. Lather for at least 20 seconds.
• Avoid touching their (or anyone else's) faces.

3. Set up sanitizer and masking stations.

All of the proper handwashing instructions in the world won't help if there's no soap and water available. That's why it's important to have hand sanitizer stations set up as a backup. Fill them with an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, preferably in a touch-free container equipped with a motion sensor. You may also wish to include disinfectant wipes and disposable masks. In other countries, it's common courtesy to wear a mask when you have a cold. They help by blocking the respiratory droplets that get coughed, sneezed, or even simply breathed out.

4. Sanitize common areas regularly.

Lobbies, break rooms, restrooms, and office areas should all be disinfected periodically throughout the day. Prioritize high-traffic areas, since these are more likely to accumulate germs. Set up a plan to sanitize these areas in a way that's as thorough, often, and non-disruptive as possible. Make sure you have disinfectants that are effective against cold, flu, and COVID-19, so you can cover the whole gamut of respiratory viruses.

5. Teach employees to spot colds and flu.

Make sure your workers know the flu when they have it. The flu shows up abruptly, and often comes with:

• Fever and chills.
• Body aches.
• Fatigue.
• Coughing.
• Sore throat.
• Headaches.
• Congestion.
• Sometimes sneezing.
  
  

On the other hand, colds are generally more gradual and cause:

• Sneezing.
• Coughing.
• Stuffy nose.
• Sore throat.
  
  

Fevers, chills, and body aches are uncommon with colds. Remember, no matter whether your employees have colds or the flu, the best place for them is at home. Resting and drinking lots of fluids can help them recover and keep them from getting guests, tenants, or other employees sick. Encourage your workers to stay home when they are ill.

6. Revisit social distancing.

If you haven't kept up your social distancing protocols, now might be a good time to go back to them. While social distancing isn't perfect, keeping a bit of distance and barriers between people can curb the spread of respiratory viruses. You might want to create a one-directional traffic flow down corridors or mark socially distant spaces on the floor where people stand in line. Whatever your social distancing policies were at the height of COVID, consider re-implementing them. The number of influenza infections dropped sharply during COVID, which shows that the same measures that prevent COVID can prevent the flu.

7. Improve your air quality.

Chances are your facility invested in high-quality air purifiers and efficient HVAC filters when COVID was at its peak. If not, or if you've reduced your air filtration since then, now is a good time to step it up again. Air purifiers equipped with HEPA filters help by trapping particles that contain viruses, reducing the number of viruses in the air. With more people seeking to return back to "normal" post-COVID, we're likely to see cold and flu numbers on the rise. If you're still diligently protecting your facility against COVID, you likely don't have much to worry about -- the same measures that thwart coronavirus also work for rhinovirus and influenza. If not, it's a good idea to follow these tips to make sure your tenants, guests, and employees stay as healthy as possible this cold and flu season.

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The facility management industry is forever evolving, and that means that trends come and go. The entire world has changed in the wake of COVID, too, which has heavily influenced everything from HVAC systems to interior decorating. What new trends should facility and property managers keep an eye on for 2023?

1. An increase in multi-family developments.

Lockdowns and an increase in work-from-home programs saw people moving out of densely populated areas and into single-family or detached residences. Real estate prices also rose dramatically. Some forecasts say that prices will decrease over the next year, which is likely to dry up a lot of the inventory on the market. Others say that sellers are likely to add more inventory to the market but increasing inflation and rising interest rates mean that buyers will be reluctant to apply for a mortgage.

Both scenarios mean that you can expect to see an increase in demand for multi-family housing. This also means that renters are going to seek out homes that provide better amenities. To remain competitive, managers of rental properties will have to look into providing in-unit washers and dryers, HVAC systems, and high-speed internet. The vast majority of renters are willing to pay a premium for these since that would still be less expensive and more convenient than having to fill these needs themselves. For facilities that are able to provide them, walk-in closets and good soundproofing are also very attractive to potential tenants.

2. Increasing issues retaining or attracting employees.

This trend has been pretty persistent and doesn't look like it's going to change any time soon. Skilled facility management professionals are reaching the age of retirement, and there aren't enough new potential employees to replace them. Today's labor force knows what they want and are very willing to pass up opportunities that they feel don't fairly compensate them. This means that managers should focus on strategies for retaining existing employees, paying competitive wages, and offering benefits to draw new hires.

3. An emphasis on flexible office spaces.

Companies and employees alike have seen the financial and environmental benefits of working from home. Many have adopted a hybrid strategy that allows employees to come and go from the office as it suits them. This has created a demand for more flexible office spaces. Managers of office facilities will likely have to redesign spaces to accommodate features like "desk hoteling."

Due to a decreased need for large offices, many employers are also downsizing to smaller ones. This means that managers will have less space to work with, so learning how to efficiently use every square foot is a must. New planning software can help simulate different floorplans and foot traffic patterns to make this process as quick and painless as possible.

4. A delicate balance between climate and health.

Pre-COVID, there was a growing trend of climate awareness and energy efficiency. Once COVID hit, facility managers realized they needed to find a way to balance energy efficiency with adequate ventilation. Sometimes, occupant well-being increases energy consumption. This is a balance that managers will have to continue to strike.

Smart sensors can help automate part of this process by only lighting, heating, or air conditioning rooms that are currently in use. Energy audits can also help determine where a facility's biggest "energy sinks" are, which is the first step to creating more efficient buildings. Good sanitation practices are also just as important as they were a few years ago, as is social distancing. Natural sunlight and good ventilation also help improve employee health and well-being.

5. The increasing use of smart technology.

Automation is touted as one of the best ways to reduce costs, improve efficiency, and generally make things better and easier. This can come at a cost -- not only does smart technology cost money to deploy, it can also create challenges when it comes to integrating it into an existing digital ecosystem. This can result in vulnerabilities than open a facility up to cyber-attack. It's highly unlikely that smart technology will be going away any time soon.

Facility managers who've been resistant to the idea of automation should consider how tech-like sensors and management software can benefit them. Consulting with a cybersecurity expert can help make the transition safe and smooth. No matter whether you manage a residential or commercial property, you're still subjected to industry trends.

Many of the factors that drive these trends overlap with each other. People work from home more, so they want flexible workspaces and better amenities at home. Concerns about the climate also overlap with health and safety, and the desire for automation comes with concerns about security. Navigating these trends will involve a lot of research and compromise, and the best thing that managers can do is observe their own facilities and properties to see which strategies work best for them and their occupants.

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