Facilities management is a broad, all-encompassing term that sounds both familiar and alien. This duality can make it challenging to pinpoint a precise definition. To clarify, we’ll break down facilities management into two definitions: a service and an industry.
Facilities Management Services
While the term “facilities management” is suggested in its title, it can still be too vague to grasp what it actually entails. Accruent defines it as “the way organisations manage their buildings so that users (whether they are employees, customers, or other stakeholders) can get on with their work.” As a provider of facilities management services, we operate through the framework of stewardship and care. We look after spaces through a host of actions like cleaning, catering, mechanical and engineering maintenance, pest control, and more, all to ensure spaces are conducive for their users.
Hard Facilities Management (Hard FM)
Building Maintenance
This includes the upkeep of the physical structure of buildings, such as plumbing, electrical systems, HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning), and other mechanical systems. Regular maintenance ensures these systems operate efficiently and safely.
Infrastructure Management
Managing the infrastructure involves ensuring that the building’s core systems are functioning correctly. This includes elevators, fire safety systems, and structural integrity.
Energy Management
Implementing energy-efficient practices and technologies to reduce consumption and costs. This can involve upgrading to energy-efficient lighting, optimising HVAC systems, and using renewable energy sources.
Soft Facilities Management (Soft FM)
Cleaning Services
Ensuring that the building is clean and hygienic. This includes daily cleaning, deep cleaning, and specialised cleaning services for different areas such as kitchens and restrooms.
Catering Services
Providing food and beverage services for employees and visitors. This can range from running a cafeteria to offering catering for events and meetings.
Security Services
Ensuring the safety and security of the building and its occupants. This includes manned guarding, surveillance systems, and access control.
Pest Control
Managing and preventing pest infestations to maintain a healthy and safe environment.
Landscaping and Grounds Maintenance
Maintaining the outdoor areas of a facility, including gardens, lawns, and parking lots, to ensure they are attractive and safe.
Facilities Management Industry
As a thriving industry, facilities management plays a crucial role in the economy, going beyond just a service. According to the International Facility Management Association (IFMA), it is an organisational function that integrates people, place, and process within the built environment to improve the quality of life of people and the productivity of the core business. This industry encompasses a wide range of activities and responsibilities, including:
Building Operations
This includes the maintenance and management of building systems such as HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and structural components. Ensuring these systems are functioning properly is essential for the safety and comfort of building occupants.
Space Management
Efficient use of space is critical in facilities management. This involves planning and managing the physical layout of spaces to optimise their use and ensure they meet the needs of the organisation and its employees.
Sustainability and Energy Management
Reducing energy consumption and minimising environmental impact is becoming a key focus for facilities managers, who are implementing sustainability practices. This includes everything from energy-efficient lighting and HVAC systems to waste reduction and recycling programs.
Health and Safety
Ensuring the health and safety of building occupants is a top priority. This involves regular inspections, compliance with health and safety regulations, and implementing measures to prevent accidents and emergencies.
Technology Integration
The use of technology in facilities management is growing, with smart building systems and integrated workplace management systems (IWMS) becoming more common. These technologies help facilities managers monitor and control building systems more efficiently, leading to cost savings and improved performance.
Vendor and Contract Management
Working with a variety of vendors and service providers is a key responsibility of facilities managers. Effective management of these relationships is crucial to ensure that services are delivered on time, within budget, and to the required standard.
