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How do I maintain proper upkeep of my facilities to ensure safety?

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In addition to ensuring optimal use of company facilities, facilities management staff is also in charge of ensuring that the workplace (and the employees there) are completely safe. Some companies hire outside safety consultants to analyze and monitor their facilities, while many other companies do all the work themselves.

The best way to prevent any safety problems or emergencies is to keep a close eye on your facilities. Keep up-to-date copies of floor plans and accurate maintenance records. Perform checks on a regular basis to note and repair any deteriorating facility conditions. If you hear of facilities falling into disrepair, respond quickly to fix the problem. Solicit feedback from employees and customers as to how they use the site and whether they have had any problems in the past. This feedback will help you keep the facility in good condition and also help you determine any future adaptations or renovations that should be made.

Prepare your facilities effectively by determining the dangers they might face. Fire damage is a danger nearly everywhere, so post fire escape routes and install smoke and fire alarms in your buildings. If you reside in tornado, earthquake, or hurricane-prone areas, prepare accordingly. If you are concerned about burglary, hire security guards, or install security cameras or an alarm system. Keep a close eye on potential danger zones--whether it is a busy intersection or a hazardous waste site. Finally, when problems do come up, take care to inform the users of the facility; this assures them that you are on top of the problem.

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