{"id":27003,"date":"2025-02-06T11:29:41","date_gmt":"2025-02-06T11:29:41","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/ocs.com\/uk\/?post_type=knowledge-hub&p=27003"},"modified":"2025-03-24T11:51:18","modified_gmt":"2025-03-24T11:51:18","slug":"what-is-facilities-management-an-overview-of-the-service-and-industry","status":"publish","type":"knowledge-hub","link":"https:\/\/ocs.com\/uk\/knowledge-hub\/what-is-facilities-management-an-overview-of-the-service-and-industry\/","title":{"rendered":"What is Facilities Management?"},"content":{"rendered":" \n
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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\u2019ll break down facilities management into two definitions: a service and an industry.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n <\/section>\n\n\n \n

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Facilities Management Services<\/h3>\n

While the term \u201cfacilities management\u201d is suggested in its title, it can still be too vague to grasp what it actually entails. Accruent defines it as \u201cthe way organisations manage their buildings so that users (whether they are employees, customers, or other stakeholders) can get on with their work.\u201d 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.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n <\/section>\n\n\n

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Hard Facilities Management (Hard FM)<\/h3>\n <\/div>\n
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Building Maintenance<\/h4>\n

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.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n

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Infrastructure Management<\/h4>\n

Managing the infrastructure involves ensuring that the building\u2019s core systems are functioning correctly. This includes elevators, fire safety systems, and structural integrity.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n

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Energy Management<\/h4>\n

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.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/section>\n\n\n

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Soft Facilities Management (Soft FM)<\/h3>\n <\/div>\n
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Cleaning Services<\/h4>\n

Ensuring that the building is clean and hygienic. This includes daily cleaning, deep cleaning, and specialised cleaning services<\/a> for different areas such as kitchens and restrooms.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n

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Catering Services<\/h4>\n

Providing food and beverage services for employees and visitors. This can range from running a cafeteria to offering catering<\/a> for events and meetings.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n

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Security Services<\/h4>\n

Ensuring the safety and security of the building and its occupants. This includes manned guarding<\/a>, surveillance systems, and access control.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n

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Pest Control<\/h4>\n

Managing and preventing pest infestations to maintain a healthy and safe environment.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n

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Landscaping and Grounds Maintenance<\/h4>\n

Maintaining the outdoor areas of a facility, including gardens, lawns, and parking lots, to ensure they are attractive and safe.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/section>\n\n\n

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