It appears that our less than glorious British Summer has officially come to an end and the autumn leaves are appearing. For Facilities Management professionals this signals the start of one of the most challenging times of year for their profession. For most FM professionals, winter often translate into additional workloads and the need for meticulous planning - the cold weather can bring its fair share of challenges to the management and maintenance of buildings, and it's essential to be prepared. Proper preparation not only ensures the safety and comfort of occupants but also prevents costly damage and disruptions. Below we've outlined some of the key steps facilities management take to prepare for winter.
One of the most critical aspects of winter preparation is ensuring that heating systems are in optimal working condition. This includes inspecting and servicing boilers, furnaces, and HVAC systems. Clean air filters, check for leaks, and replace any worn-out parts. Regular and proactive maintenance can prevent unexpected breakdowns during the coldest months which can result in significant business disruption, especially if the premises needs to be closed down in order to rectify and issues.
Facilities management teams should inspect the entire premises to identify potential gaps, cracks, and areas of heat loss. Seal gaps around windows, doors, and other openings to prevent cold air from getting in to the building. Adequate insulation and weather-stripping are essential for maintaining a comfortable and energy-efficient interior during winter.
In regions prone to heavy snowfall, facilities management must have a comprehensive snow and ice management plan in place. This plan should include the timely removal of snow from walkways, parking lots, and roof surfaces to prevent accidents and structural damage. Applying de-icing agents and salt strategically can help maintain safe pathways.
Winter storms can lead to power outages, making emergency generators a critical component of winter preparedness. Regular maintenance checks should be conducted on these generators to ensure they function as needed during an outage. Fuel supplies should also be monitored and replenished.
Frozen pipes can lead to costly water damage and disruptions in service. Facilities management should insulate pipes located in vulnerable areas such as unheated spaces, basements, and storage areas. Regularly check for leaks and repair any damaged insulation.
Facilities management teams must have a clear winter-specific emergency response plan in place. This plan should include communication protocols, staff assignments, and procedures for dealing with various winter-related issues, such as snow accumulation, ice, power outages, and extreme cold temperatures.
Optimizing HVAC settings during winter can improve energy efficiency and comfort. Program thermostats to reduce heating levels during off-peak hours and ensure a comfortable temperature during working hours. Also, consider installing programmable thermostats to manage temperature fluctuations efficiently.
Winter weather can be harsh on the building's exterior. Regularly inspect and repair the roof, gutters, and downspouts to prevent leaks and ice dams. Trim overhanging branches that could pose a risk during heavy snow and ice accumulation.
In anticipation of potential supply chain disruptions during winter, facilities management should stock essential supplies, such as salt, sand, shovels, heating fuel, and emergency equipment. This proactive approach ensures that necessary resources are readily available when needed.
Facilities management plays a crucial role in preparing for winter by ensuring the safety, comfort, and functionality of buildings during the cold season. By following these essential steps are a bare minimum, facilities management teams can minimize disruptions, protect their facilities, and keep occupants safe and warm throughout the winter months. Proactive planning and routine maintenance are the keys to a successful winter preparedness strategy.
