Managing a building is a huge responsibility.
Some are
priceless and irreplaceable; others can be worth tens of
millions of dollars. At the same time, their operation and
maintenance can have an enormous impact on the environment and
quality of life of the people that work, visit and live in the
building.
We’ve often written about this huge
responsibility, and are happy to present the following
Stewardship Principles from the
Clean to protect health and
the environment first, appearance second. It is not what is seen
that is the real concern. Even clean appearing buildings can be
extremely unhealthy.
Thus, focus on cleaning for
health and the environment.
Clean and maintain the
building as a whole, not separate components. Cleaning and
maintenance in one area of a building can have a major impact on
other areas. For example, the fumes from the stripping and
recoating of a floor in one area can contaminate adjacent areas
or even the entire building via the HVAC system. Appropriate
actions must take place to insure health and safety throughout
the entire building.
- Scheduled routine
maintenance. Scheduled maintenance that is frequent and thorough
is the most efficient and effective method for building
maintenance.
- Specific procedures need to
be developed to address accidents. Plans should address weather
related problems, as well as common spills, water leaks, smoke
or air contamination by a noxious chemical reaction.
- Minimize human exposure to
harmful contaminants and cleaning residues. Workers should
always use the appropriate personal protective equipment. Areas
where work is taking place should have adequate ventilation;
work schedules should be established to minimize exposure to
building occupants, and the products used should be the most
benign to accomplish the task.
- Minimize chemical, particle
and moisture residue when cleaning. The products that are used
for building maintenance can also contribute to a building’s
problem if used incorrectly.
- Ensure worker and building
occupant safety at all times.
- Minimize the amount of
pollutants entering the building. It is significantly more
effective to keep contaminants out of the building.
- Dispose of cleaning waste in
environmentally safe ways.
Going beyond basic operations
and maintenance, stewardship is about “caring” for a building,
and the people who occupy it. Following the principles and
procedures listed above with others established in
Pennsylvania’s Green Buildings Operation and Maintenance Manual
can make your buildings healthier and more environmentally
friendly.
Thanks and good luck.
