Author Archives: SLCS

Value Chain Transformative Journey: Integrated Facilities Management

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The term value chain refers to the various business activities and processes involved in creating a product or performing a service. A value chain can consist of multiple stages of a product or service’s lifecycle, including research and development, sales, and everything in between. The concept was conceived by Harvard Business School Professor Michael Porter in his book The Competitive Advantage: Creating and Sustaining Superior Performance. – Harvard Business School Online

In the context of Integrated Facilities Management services, the growing preference for an outsourcing model necessitates a comprehensive evaluation of fundamental and value-added service offerings to facilitate strategic business advancements for property owners and stakeholders. Viewed from the perspective of FM services, the encompassed focus pertains to PEOPLE, PLACE, and PROFIT.

Occupants, the environment, and expenses are directly or indirectly influenced by the built environment, wellness, and workplace culture maintained by the PROPERTY OWNERS, OCCUPANTS, and STAKEHOLDERS. The Facilities Management team, whether internal or outsourced, holds the potential to significantly impact the transformation of the value chain for a broader spectrum of stakeholders. Each of these facets may undergo a transformative evolution through comprehension, critical analysis, and strategic delineation spearheaded by the Facilities Management team. This concise examination illuminates potential opportunities for transformation that demand careful consideration and a cooperative approach to engaging cross-functional stakeholders.

Approach

Value Chain Transformative Journey

Before implementing a transformative action plan, property owners and facility managers must set goals aligning with business objectives and stakeholder expectations. Prioritising an action plan within the transformative program involves gathering relevant information and operational data and assessing business objectives, operational risks, and cost impact gaps. Carrying out an investment-grade analysis requires support from internal cross-functional operations and external expertise.

Transformation objectives, preparations, actions, and validation through certification programs.

The imperative for organisations to pursue a path towards business sustainability is unequivocal. This pursuit necessitates active engagement with professional experts, stakeholders, and external support entities. The transformative journey within the value chain will prioritise PEOPLE, PLACE, and PROFIT, ultimately leading to enhanced sustainability. Through each transformation phase, the Integrated Facilities Management team is well-positioned to conduct thorough professional assessments, analyses, and actionable strategies.

District Cooling Plant – Building HVAC System Efficiency

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The HVAC system in a commercial building represents 45% or more of the annual energy expenditure. It is crucial to address inefficiencies and ensure the system’s long-term functionality. Suboptimal HVAC system performance can be attributed to various factors such as design, procurement, installation, operation, and maintenance. A comprehensive approach to resolving these issues can result in enhanced efficiency and prolonged equipment lifespan. This article will delve into the common issue of “Low Delta T syndrome” within HVAC systems, specifically in Primary/Secondary or Variable Primary Flow chilled water piping configurations. Facility Management Teams frequently encounter this problem and can have a significant impact on system performance.

A low Delta T indicates deteriorated performance of the Central Air Conditioning system of constant primary and variable secondary chilled water

When the difference between the chilled water temperature leaving the system and entering it is lower than the optimal design temperature, it leads to a condition called ‘Low Delta T’ syndrome in the District Cooling system. In a central cooling system consisting of Electric Chillers and Thermal storage, the delta T is designed to be around 12°C.

ASHRAE Green guide prescribes

  • 12 to 20°F  (7°C to 11°C) ΔT chilled water
  • 12 to 18°F (7°C to 10°C) ΔT condenser water.

However, most of the year, the chiller system operates at a partial load, causing the temperature to drop below the intended threshold. District Cooling Service contracts often include penalty clauses for failure to maintain the DT at the premises above the prescribed threshold.

Effect of Low DT syndrome

  • The operating capacity of the Chillers is limited by the ratio of the actual temperature difference (Delta T) to the design temperature difference (Delta T). For example, if the actual Delta T (DT) is 5 °C and the design Delta T (DT) is 9 °C, the maximum operating capacity is limited to 56% of the rated maximum capacity (5/9 = 56%).
  • To compensate for the increased cooling demand, the overworked chilled water pumping system doubles the required chilled water, leading to substantial energy expenditure due to diminished operating capacity.
  • According to the Affinity Law, the power utilized is proportional to the cube of water flow. Per degree Celsius rise in room temperature can result in an average of 3-6% energy savings.
  • Controlling units operate out of the design framework leading to ununiform cooling
  • Local thermal discomfort to occupants.

Causes of Low Delta T syndrome in a variable-air volume designed cooling system

Design detailing

  • Improper installation of Secondary pump differential pressure sensors
  • Improper calibration of sensors and controllers
  • Usage of three-way valves
  • Improper selection of cooling (coil DT lower than the plant design DT)
  • Improper selection of Control Valves (over-sized valves, under-sized actuators)
  • Inadequate or missing interlocking between chilled water shut-off valves and the associated Air Handling Units.
  • The supply water temperature controller in the return line is set close to the design chilled water temperature.
  • Uncontrolled process loads (controlling chilled water matching the design requirements of the process).
  • Outdoor Air Economizers contribute to Low DT

Commissioning

  • Poor water balancing
  • Poor calibration and on-site testing of controls and meters
  • Inadequate digital metering system
  • Inadequate information sharing with the Maintenance team
  • Inadequate knowledge and training for the commissioning team
  • Poor Operations and Maintenance program

Procurement

  • Inadequate critical spares’ stock management. Defective or missing spares are not procured for replacement.
  • Inadequate or wrong specifications used in procurement detailing of
    • Old worn-out pumping system
    • Flow control devices
    • Instrumentation and control
    • Meters – Temperature, Pressure, Humidity
    • controllers, actuators, valves

Operations and Maintenance

  • Rebalancing chilled water flow to match design specifications
  • Off-peak business hours and vacant floors throughout most of the year require part-load operation of chiller plants.
  • Inadequate secondary pumping and ventilation system controls responding to variable demand load.
  • Malfunction of Terminal Cooling Units
    • Malfunctioning instruments requiring cleaning, calibration, replacements
    • Actuators not closing off due to undersize capacity, accumulated dirt, etc
    • Control valves not shutting off in sync with the Air Handling Units
    • Fouled coils requiring cleaning of fins
    • Dirty Filters requiring cleaning
    • Clogged strainers requiring regular cleaning
    • Bypassing air around coils
    • Uncontrolled process loads

Technology trends towards more efficient HVAC system

  • Adaptive Frequency Drives
    • Compressors, Pumps (Primary and Secondary), Fans
    • Supervisory controls and smart metering
  • Controls
    • Open protocol
    • Easy networking interoperable connectivity
    • Troubleshooting diagnostics
    • Data analytics-driven control and command
  • Retrofit solutions
    • Pressure independent Flow Control Valves to replace two-way valves at AHUs, PAHUs, FCUs
    • Reposition and recalibrate differential pressure sensors and set points to adequately respond to seasonal and operational variations.

Conclusion:

The occurrence of ‘Low Delta T’ syndrome is not uncommon in large commercial properties. To address this issue, the Facilities Management team must recognize the gaps between system design and operational parameters. It is crucial to conduct a technical assessment of the system and create a roadmap to enhance system efficiency comprehensively. This technical and commercial assessment should be complemented by an analysis of building occupants’ satisfaction surveys to ensure a well-rounded approach to the problem.

Choice of Air-conditioning System-Facility Manager’s Guide

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Choice of Air Conditioning system for Building Services

Selecting the right air conditioning system for building services is not just a task; it’s a crucial step that can significantly impact the efficiency and reliability of building operations. To make the best choice, it’s essential to thoroughly evaluate key considerations such as purpose, initial and operating costs, and installation and operational requirements.

When troubleshooting air conditioning systems, paying attention to high probability and high-impact failures documented in the operational history or derived from industry-specific information is essential.

Broadly, many tailored design systems are adopted for Heating, Ventilation, and Air-conditioning (HVAC) systems. The design approach begins with a needs statement from the end-use customer. The requirement for an HVAC system must adequately articulate a minimum of the following criteria.

  • The area under consideration for air-conditioning

o   Rule of thumb –

(1.0 TR of cooling = 3,024 kCal/hr heat rejection)

  • Occupancy hours and purpose of the area
  • Adaptive Thermal Comfort –
  • Indoor operative temperature = (0.078 x Outdoor temperature) + 23.25 0C
  • The 90% acceptability range for the adaptive models for a conditioned building is +/- 1.50C.
  • Indoor room temperature can be monitored and controlled for thermal comfort using IoT sensors and data analytics relating to air temperature, mean radiant temperature, relative humidity, and air speed.

(Ref.- ECBC )

Technology for Janitorial Services

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Integrating technology, a pervasive force in modern state-of-the-art buildings brings numerous benefits to janitorial services. In commercial and residential properties, these services are of paramount importance. High-rise buildings, designed with cutting-edge technologies to enhance the quality of life and business operations, rely heavily on the safety and well-being of all individuals within the premises. The janitorial services portfolio caters to these critical requirements. Conventional work methodologies have evolved to foster a safer and healthier environment. Adopting technology in cleaning equipment and appliances has not just advanced but has revolutionised the maintenance of building infrastructures. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has notably accelerated the transformative journey toward sustainability, and technology integration is a crucial driver of this progress.
This discourse not only delineates the common application domains suitable for embracing technology-driven transformations but also underscores the pivotal role of the Facility Manager. By judiciously selecting the appropriate technology for the facility, they are not just making a choice but actively shaping their buildings’ future. This approach empowers the Facility Manager and makes them feel responsible for the technological advancements in their respective buildings.

  • Robotic applications in typical challenge areas for cleaning –

Building façade cleaning
 Drainage network cleaning
 Air duct cleaning
 Confined spaces –
Underground and Overhead Water Tank Cleaning
Underground Fuel Storage Tank Cleaning
 Cleanroom sanitation

Exploring appropriate innovative cleaning regimes across various areas is crucial to achieving optimal results and controlling costs.
 Amenities (Swimming Pool, Theatre/Conference Hall, Sports facilities), Facility Occupancy
 Cafeteria (Refrigeration, Storage, Kitchen, Seat area), restrooms,
 Escalators, Stairwells
 Carpet extraction
 Floor cleaning – Vacuuming, Sweeping, Mopping, Scrubbing

Buyer’s Guide for a Facility Manager?
 Define needs statement
 Concerns
o Safety
Health and Hygiene
o Cyber Security
o Environmental impacts,
o Occupancy and Time management, Customer satisfaction
 Ease of access and use of new technology
 Janitorial management software providing
Predictive Analytics and activity scheduling
o Resource planning and mapping utilisation
o Information traceability
o Reporting dashboard
o Tracking compliances – SLA, Regulatory and Statutory guidelines
o Customer Feedback Analytics
o KPI monitoring
 Interoperability of IoT devices working with different systems and sub-systems
 Resource utilisation – Water, Energy, Person-hour, Costs

Information required from the site
 Surface area schedule
 Architectural measurements of the building
 Type of surfaces
 Facility purpose
 Occupancy
 Criticality and Priority areas
 Working hours

Advancements in technology have positively impacted the management of cleaning services, leading to improved service delivery and environmental sustainability, ultimately boosting business profitability. The challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic have also sparked new opportunities for multifaceted business growth.
Today, the challenge is to make intelligent choices about improvising the best purpose-built technology into conventional service regimes.

Technology for Building Services

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Integrated Facility Management – Digitalisation: Challenges and Opportunities

The evolution of technology from Industry 1.0 to Industry 4.0 and Industry 5.0 has been fuelled by the evolving needs of stakeholders, the environmental ecosystem, infrastructure lifespan enhancement, and the pressing need to optimise available resources. The building services industry has embraced technological advancements with enthusiasm. Technologies such as the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), Artificial Intelligence (AI), Augmented Reality (AR), Building Information Modelling (BIM), Building Management System (BMS) and Integrated Workplace Management System (IWMS) have played a vital role in promoting sustainability through advanced construction design development process, information management, predictive maintenance, real-time controls of building systems and sub-systems, communication, waste reduction, recycling, and reuse. Each technology has presented its unique complexities, challenges, and opportunities for Facility Management Services, paving the way for continual improvement and innovation.

Industry 4.0 and opportunities for sustainability in Building and Manufacturing Plant services

  • Challenges
    • Unfamiliar Territory: The ESG Ecosystem in the IFM services domain. The knowledge and understanding of the application of technology into ESG-centric operations is crucial for sustainable Integrated Facility Management Services.
    • Resistance to change management: Mindset rooted in a conventional cost-controlled labour-intensive service regime.
    • Absence of Regulatory Framework and Standards: The absence of relevant standards, cogent regulatory framework, and poor enforcement of environment-related rules and guidelines has diminished digital-transitive efforts.
    • Poor sustainable work culture: Poor or no focus on data, information monitoring, recording, traceability, credibility, and analytics-based decision-making culture.
    • Privacy and Data Analytics
      • Privacy and data analytics challenges pervade all three key stakeholders – IoT device manufacturers, IoT cloud service providers, and platform providers.
      • Interoperability among multiple service solutions, vertical and horizontal communication barriers, and legacy devices in old buildings with outdated controls contribute to resistance to digital transformation.
  • Opportunities
    • Digitalisation transformation with due consideration of privacy, security, transparency, traceability, the authenticity of data, system resiliency and availability, health and safety, and resource optimisation.
    • General applications in commercial building
      • Construction design development
      • Project Management
      • Fire and Life Safety
      • Lighting and Energy Management
      • Plumbing and Water Management
      • Heating, Ventilation, and air-conditioning applications
      • Vertical transport (Lifts, Escalators)
      • Transport Management
      • Waste Management
      • Facility Services
        • Employee training
        • Communications, Compliance reporting
        • Resource planning, utilisation, optimisation
        • Forecasting utilities’ demand
        • Risk management – Fault diagnosis and automated system response.
        • Efficiency improvements
        • Develop sustainable, reliable, available, maintainable, and operational architecture.
      • Digital system maintenance—It is crucial to Implement a maintenance regime with the necessary skill set to calibrate and maintain field sensors and meters as part of a preventive maintenance program. Furthermore, it is imperative to ensure that software upgrades are synchronised with hardware upgrades to meet the specific data and application requirements.

      • Selection of Technology for Building Services

The adoption of technology through conventional methods prioritizes enhancing workflow efficiency and the overall profitability of businesses. The evolution of technology now emphasizes improving user experience, minimizing environmental impact, adhering to governance standards, and promoting sustainability. Development in sensors, actuators, meters, communication protocols, IoT platforms, and analytics aims to bolster safety, security, and sustainability.

Embracing technology is crucial for improving property management and enhancing the overall user experience in multifaceted ways. It is essential to select technology that aligns with the specific needs of property owners and prioritises sustainability principles. The continuous evolution of technology presents abundant opportunities for advancing engineering services and streamlining sustainable practices. Thus, it is imperative for the Facility Management team to thoughtfully evaluate and select IoT architecture at each level within a layered architectural framework to support business and sustainability objectives effectively.

 

Staff Uniforms and ESG

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Sustainable Staff Uniforms and ESG

Workplace uniforms are more than just clothing. They represent an organisation’s identity, fostering a sense of belonging among employees and projecting a professional image to clients. Today’s Gen Zers prioritize Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) policies and practices in their workplace and client premises. Therefore, organizations need to take a more holistic approach to cohesive programs.

Facility service providers have significant responsibilities, including establishing and enforcing a dress code and procuring and managing uniforms for a sizable workforce deployed at client sites across diverse locations. The primary objective of uniforms for service personnel is to promote professional attire and discipline while adhering to the organization’s branding and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) principles. This analysis focuses on the usage, end-of-life, and disposal phases, which notably consume a significant share of energy and water in the carbon chain within the Uniform’s lifecycle. Industry-specific quality controls, including usage, washability, durability, recyclability, and reusability of uniforms in the Facility Management Service domain, are particularly interesting for Facility Managers.

Developing, implementing, and managing a successful uniform program across diverse teams, regions, and service types requires a strategic approach considering the “Triple P” – Purpose, Planet, and Profit. Here’s a breakdown of how Facility Managers can navigate this challenge:

Purpose:

  • Safety: Uniforms should prioritise safety features like high-visibility reflective materials for staff working in low-light conditions, near traffic, or around hazardous materials. Flame retardant properties are essential for welding, soldering, or other high-heat personnel. Disposable or reusable Personal Protective Equipment apparel may include a full-body overall with head and foot covers. In Industrial, Airport, Storage facilities, high-rise buildings, and similar critical environment workplaces, the selection of protective clothing for firefighters and working personnel performing hazardous tasks must comply with minimal relevant requirements stipulated in applicable standards.
  • Reference StandardScopeApplication
    ASTM F2894Standard Test Method for Evaluation of Materials, Protective Clothing, and Equipment for Heat ResistanceIndustrial
    ISO 11611Protective Clothing For Use In Welding And Allied ProcessesIndustrial, Buildings
    EN 61482 (Part 1 and 2), NFPA 70ELive Working – Protective Clothing Against The Thermal Hazards Of An Electric ArcWorking on Electrical Systems
    ISO 20471, CSA Z96-2015High Visibility Clothing – Test Methods And RequirementsVehicle parking management, confined room work, and high-traffic movement places.
    ISO 11613Protective clothing for firefighters who are engaged in support activities associated with structural firefighting — Laboratory test methods and performanceFirefighters
    ISO 17493Clothing and equipment for protection against heat — Test method for convective heat  resistance using a hot air circulating ovenIndustrial
    NFPA 1971Standard on Protective Ensembles for Structural Fire Fighting and Proximity Fire Fighting (2018)Firefighters
    NFPA 1975Standard on Emergency Services Work ApparelFire warden
    NFPA 2112Standard on Flame-Resistant Clothing for Protection of Industrial Personnel Against Short-Duration Thermal Exposures from FireIndustrial
    NFPA 1990Standard on Liquid Splash-Protective Ensembles and Clothing for Hazardous Materials EmergenciesIndustrial
    ISO 14644-5 (Annex B)Guidelines for disposable or reusable staff uniforms to protect the indoor environment from dust and chemical contamination originating from working personnel.Clean environment – Data Centre, Laboratories, Pharmaceuticals, Food IndustryFunctionality: The design and materials of uniforms should directly enhance job performance. Janitorial staff uniforms might benefit from features like reinforced knees for kneeling, multiple pockets for cleaning supplies, and moisture-wicking fabrics for comfort during exertion. Security personnel uniforms may require a more formal look to project authority while incorporating features like easy access to security tools and hidden compartments for identification badges.

    • Functionality: The design and materials of uniforms should directly enhance job performance. Janitorial staff uniforms might benefit from features like reinforced knees for kneeling, multiple pockets for cleaning supplies, and moisture-wicking fabrics for comfort during exertion. Security personnel uniforms may require a more formal look to project authority while incorporating features like easy access to security tools and hidden compartments for identification badges.

Functionality: The design and materials of uniforms should directly enhance job performance. Janitorial staff uniforms might benefit from features like reinforced knees for kneeling, multiple pockets for cleaning supplies, and moisture-wicking fabrics for comfort during exertion. Security personnel uniforms may require a more formal look to project authority while incorporating features like easy access to security tools and hidden compartments for identification badges.

Minimum functional requirements of staff uniform.

  • Job-fit workwear for every individual
  • Clear identification of the Employer of the working personnel
  • Employer’s logo on the Uniform
  • Large-scale Uniform procurement would require careful selection of textile quality checks, sourcing, uniform design standardisation, and a storage facility near the work site.
  • Some textile quality controls and uniform design requirements include reusability, durability, abrasion resistance, colour fastness, thermal resistance, and meet seasonal needs.
  • Uniforms’ washability must be carefully considered based on fabric material and usage. The quality of uniform fabric and design must comply with ISO standards. Laundering and maintenance requirements require considering engaging a third-party professional laundry service.

Reference Standards for Textiles:

Reference Standards for TextilesApplication
ISO 12947Determination of the abrasion resistance of fabrics by the Martindale method
ISO 105 Part-A01Tests for colour fastness — Part A01: General principles of testing
ISO 105 Part-A02Tests for colour fastness — Part A02: Grey scale for assessing change in colour
ISO 105 Part- A03Tests for colour fastness — Part A03: Grey scale for assessing staining
ISO 105 Part- C01 to 06Tests for colour fastness — Part C01 to 06: Colour fastness to washing and laundering
ISO 3175Professional care, dry cleaning and wet cleaning of fabrics and garments.
ISO 7768Method for assessing the appearance of durable press fabrics after domestic washing and drying.
ISO 7769Method for assessing the appearance of creases in durable-press products after domestic washing and drying.
ISO 7770Method for assessing the appearance of seams in durable-press products after domestic washing and drying.
ISO 9867Evaluation of the wrinkle recovery of fabrics- Appearance method
ISO 5077Textiles — Determination of dimensional change in washing and drying
ISO 5085Textiles — Determination of thermal resistance — Part 1 and 2: Low and High thermal resistance
  • Professionalism: A clean, consistent, professional Uniform appearance fosters trust and confidence with clients, building occupants, and staff. A well-designed uniform program can also contribute to a sense of team identity and pride among employees. When designing uniforms, it is essential to prioritize personnel comfort, consider socio-cultural context, address trade-specific needs, and align with the branding of the employer’s and customers’ work culture. Basic prerequisites for a professional workforce include personal hygiene, immaculate uniforms, and a trade-specific appearance.
  • Governance: It is essential to distribute a comprehensive policy document outlining the dress code to all employees. The dress code should aim to foster a sense of belonging, discipline, and pride across all organizational levels and departments. Implementing well-designed and colour-coded uniforms can enhance mobility and cohesion across various ranks and departments. Additionally, embracing digital administration controls for procurement, storage, distribution, usage, maintenance, and disposal of uniforms must be encouraged.

 Planet:

Why are Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles relevant to Staff Uniforms?

  • Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles are crucial for business sustainability. Today, Gen Zers are passionate about safeguarding the health, safety, the environment, and profit.
  • Implementing policies and practices aligned with ESG principles for staff uniforms fosters professionalism, boosts employee motivation, and enhances market competitiveness.
  • Reporting and verifying Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives elevates the organisation’s brand value and generates interest from investors and clients.
  • Staff uniforms represent a significant portion of a facilities service provider’s annual operating budget. CSR reporting (GRI, SASB, Accountability’s AA1000, ISO 26000) includes uniform policy, sourcing, usage, and disposal practices for validation.
  • Smart and sustainable management practice has the potential to save carbon footprint and costs and improve profitability.

A few of the Important facts about the textile industry.

Key areas to focus on for easy-to-implement roadmaps towards decarbonisation and sustainability.

  • Digitalising processes like procurement and administration controls through the use stage, and traceability across all stages will improve controls and analytics-based actions.
  • Reduce, Repair, Reuse, and Repurpose.

Though the share of carbon emissions at the end of use is the lowest in the lifecycle chain, reducing, repairing, closed-loop recycling, and repurposing will significantly reduce environmental impacts.

  • Recycled fabric

Incorporating eco-friendly fabrics from recycled materials or organic cotton into the uniform program. This reduces the environmental impact of uniform production and disposal.

  • Durability:

Durable, high-quality uniforms reduce waste by needing to be replaced less frequently. Look for uniforms with reinforced stitching, stain-resistant finishes, and fabrics that withstand multiple wash cycles.

  • Energy-Efficient Care:

Opt for uniforms that are easy to clean and require less water or harsh chemicals during laundering. Explore laundry service providers who utilize energy-efficient cleaning methods.

  • Circularity:

(Source: Quantis Study:2008)

  • Textiles ECO-Conformance and Labels

  • Energy and CO2 emissions in the

In a study done by the Stockholm Environment Institute on behalf of the Bio-Regional Development Group, the energy used (and therefore the CO2 emitted) to create 1 ton of spun fibre is much higher for synthetics than for cotton:

FibreKg CO2 / Ton of Fibre
Polyester9.52
Cotton – Conventional5.89
Cotton – Organic3.75

 

The Embodied Energy used in the production of various fibres

 

FibreEnergy in MJ / Ton of Fibre
Cotton55
Wool63
Viscose100
Polypropylene115
Polyester125
Acrylic175
Nylon250

Profit:

  • Cost Control: Negotiate bulk discounts with uniform suppliers to reduce overall program costs. Consider offering a limited selection of core uniform options to streamline procurement and inventory management.
  • Employee Retention: Attractive and functional uniforms can boost employee morale and satisfaction, reduce turnover, and improve recruitment efforts. When employees feel comfortable and well-represented in their uniforms, they are more likely to take pride in their work and provide exceptional service.
  • Uniform Maintenance: Explore cost-effective laundry services or implement on-site washing solutions to streamline uniform care and reduce dependence on expensive dry cleaning services.
  • Workwear Rental: Workwear rental service has gained traction across major consumer markets. Rental service brings value and efficiency to quality controls, flexible inventory management, repairs, laundering, repurposing and reuse on a large scale. Overall cost and quality efficiency at end-use and disposition of the uniforms can be largely realised through a professional rental service model. According to a market research report from Custom Market Insights, the global workwear rental market is estimated to be USD 1.9 billion and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 7.7% from 2024 to 2033.

Challenges and Considerations:

  • Diversity of Services: Facility Management encompasses a wide range of services, from janitorial work to security to technical maintenance. Each service may have specific uniform needs regarding functionality, safety, and durability.
  • Multiple Clients and Locations: FM companies often serve clients across regions with varying weather conditions and cultural norms. Uniforms need to be adaptable and culturally appropriate.
  • Scalability and Cost-Effectiveness: Uniform programs must scale efficiently across various team sizes while maintaining affordability.
  • Inventory management: The high attrition rate, business operational needs, and transportation logistics are potential crisis points that require close attention and planning.
  • Barriers to CSR in the Textile Industry
    • Lack of awareness among stakeholders and customers
    • Lack of knowledge and training on the importance of ESG
    • Lack of top management commitment to compliance with ESG principles.
    • Inadequate or absent regulations and standards
    • Resistance to change in Company Culture towards Carbon neutrality and environmental sustainability.

Balancing the Triple P:

Purpose:

Safety: Uniforms should prioritise safety features like reflective materials for high-visibility environments or flame retardancy for certain tasks.

Functionality: Design uniforms with features that enhance job performance, such as tool pockets or breathable fabrics for physical activity.

Professionalism: A professional appearance fosters trust and confidence with clients and building occupants.

Planet:

Sustainable Materials: Consider using eco-friendly fabrics from recycled materials or organic cotton.

Energy-Efficient Care: Opt for uniforms that are easy to clean and require less water or harsh chemicals.

Durability: Durable uniforms reduce waste by needing to be replaced less frequently.

 Profit:

Cost Control: Smart control measures should encompass sourcing, quality controls, transportation, digitized tracking, distribution monitoring, recollection, and uniform reuse/repurposing.

Employee Retention: Attractive and functional uniforms can boost employee morale and reduce turnover.

Uniform Maintenance: Explore cost-effective laundry services or on-site washing solutions.

Uniforms on Rent: Explore professional service partners to rent workwear on a large scale and across multiple operations regions.

Recycled fabric: Uniforms made from recycled fabric help the environment and save costs.

Good Practices:

  • Uniform Policy: Outline clear guidelines regarding dress code expectations, acceptable attire, and uniform maintenance responsibilities. It is the employer’s responsibility to provide job-fit and body-comfortable uniforms for workplace personnel.
  • Standardization and Customization: Standardize base uniform elements while allowing customization based on job needs, socio-cultural,  or regional climate.
  • Invest in Quality: While affordability is important, prioritize durable and comfortable uniforms that require less frequent replacement.
  • Partner with a Reputable Supplier: A uniform supplier who understands the FM industry and can offer various options to meet operational needs.
  • Employee Input: Involve your team in the selection process to ensure the uniforms meet their comfort and functionality needs.

By adopting a strategic approach to staff uniforms, Facility Managers can create a program that promotes safety, professionalism, and environmental responsibility, all while considering cost-effectiveness and employee well-being. This will contribute to a smoother operation and enhance the overall image of your FM service.

Green Data Centres – Challenges and Opportunities

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The Growing Need for Sustainable Data Centers

Data centres, the powerhouses of our digital world, face a critical challenge: sustainability. While they provide the essential infrastructure for today’s digital ecosystem, their energy usage intensity can be staggering, often exceeding commercial office buildings of similar built-up areas by 20 to 50 times. With server racks evolving to hold even more powerful equipment (50 to 100 kW/rack compared to the previous 4 to 20 kW), the need for sustainable practices becomes even more pressing.

The Sustainability Imperative

Sustainability encompasses the design, construction, operation, and resource management (electricity, cooling, water, waste) provided for a data centre. Few facilities have embraced green practices from the outset, but many legacy data centres are now turning towards  Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) frameworks to achieve long-term sustainability and reap its benefits.

Transforming Legacy Data Centres

For traditionally constructed data centres, achieving sustainability involves an ongoing improvement process. Sustainability initiatives, which encompass assessments and evaluations conducted by reputable organizations such as IGBC Green Data Center Rating, ECOVADIS (ESG Score), and the Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method (BREEAM framework), play a pivotal role in facilitating the transition towards carbon, water, and waste neutrality.

Two-pronged approach for Facility Managers:

In-House or Expert Assessment:  

Conduct regular assessments to identify areas for operational efficiency improvement across the entire data centre portfolios. This can be done by an internal team or by seeking external expertise.

Focused Interventions:

Based on the assessment findings, implement targeted interventions to address inefficiencies. This may involve upgrades to cooling systems, renewable energy sources, or water conservation measures.

India’s Booming Data Center Market: Balancing Growth with Sustainability

India’s digital landscape is undergoing a rapid transformation, fuelled by the proliferation of data centres. Currently ranking 13th globally, the Indian data centre market is experiencing significant growth, driven by factors like:

Digitalization Across Sectors: Education, healthcare, commerce, and communication are all experiencing a surge in online activity, demanding more data storage and processing power.

Emerging Technologies: The adoption of the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) and Generative AI necessitates data centres with a robust infrastructure.

Data Residency Requirements: The Digital Personal Data Protection Act (2023) encourages the construction of Edge and Hyperscale Data Centers to meet data residency requirements and ensure low latency.

“Challenges and Opportunities for Achieving Sustainable Growth”

While the data centre boom brings undeniable benefits, sustainability concerns require immediate attention. Here’s a closer look at the key challenges and opportunities:

Challenges:

Limited Sustainability Focus: Many legacy data centres haven’t prioritized sustainability principles, leading to higher operational costs and carbon footprints.

Green Energy Sourcing: Off-site green energy options are limited by a lack of awareness, unclear policy frameworks, and bureaucratic hurdles.

Energy Efficiency: Upgrading existing infrastructure to improve power utilization effectiveness (PUE) can be expensive and require a long payback period.

Water Management: The water crisis in some Indian cities highlights the need for Water Use Effectiveness (WUE) measures. Inadequate metering and stakeholder awareness exacerbate the issue.

E-Waste Management: A primary concern is the lack of proper monitoring, recording, and recycling systems for e-waste generated by data centres.

Opportunities:

Government Support: The Indian government’s revised data centre policy aims to facilitate land acquisition, green energy access, and supporting infrastructure. This will incentivize sustainable practices.

Favourable Green Energy Tariffs: Long-term Open Access (LTOA) tariffs offer cost-effective green energy options for data centres.

On-Site Green Energy: Technological advancements in solar-wind hybrid power systems make on-site renewable energy generation more attractive.

Water Efficiency Technologies: Implementing water-efficient building cooling systems, exploring recycled water reuse, and installing proper metering can significantly reduce data centre water usage.

Effective E-Waste Management: Policy development and enforcement focusing on e-waste reduction, reuse, and recycling is crucial. Additionally, establishing a network of trained and authorized e-waste recyclers is essential.

Conclusion

The Indian data centre market presents a golden opportunity for economic growth. However, ensuring long-term sustainability requires a collaborative effort from stakeholders. By addressing the existing challenges, embracing technological advancements, and implementing environmentally conscious practices, India can foster a thriving data centre ecosystem that is both economically viable and ecologically responsible.

Case Study – Data Center Indoor Contamination and Cleaning Improvement

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Case study of indoor contamination of data centre: root cause analysis and risk management

Problem –

Server elements in a newly constructed data centre have frequently failed, resulting in significant downtime that has impacted the reliability of the global data centre and increased costs.

Background –

The Data Centre is located on a reclaimed marshy area around 1.0 Km away from the seashore. Its primary objective is to support business units throughout the Asia-Pacific region. The white space, which measures over 50,000 sqft, is home to Enterprise Servers and Storage products. The data centre is designed to operate within a thermal environmental boundary of  Class A1 and the reliability level of Tiers 3 and 4. The maintenance and cleaning services for the Data Centre have been outsourced to a specialized service provider.

Root Cause Analysis –

During routine indoor air quality tests of the Data Center, it was found that the indoor environment does not meet prescribed standards and guidelines. The high Sulphur content in the air is due to natural emissions such as H2S, NH3, and SO2 resulting from the Data Center’s location in a reclaimed marshy area. This has led to non-conformities with the Indoor Environment Standard.

Solutions adopted-

A two-pronged approach was adopted to address the contamination issue.

  1. Upgrading the clean environment mechanical systems

An additional air filtration system was installed at the fresh air intake to filter out harmful gases. A pressurization system was also set up to maintain positive air pressure within the data centre, preventing any external pollutants from entering. Furthermore, a real-time indoor environment monitoring system was implemented to detect deviations from the ASHRAE-laid standard of environmental limits of Class A1 for indoor temperature, humidity, and air quality.

  1. Enhancing cleaning protocol

A cleaning protocol has been developed for the White (SERVER) and Grey (POWER & COOLING equipment) spaces inside the Data Centre to improve surface cleaning and address dust particles and chemical contamination issues. Several internationally recognized standards and guidelines, including ISO 14644 – 1 to 9, 13, and 14, were consulted to develop a robust and effective cleaning protocol.

By combining environmental upgrades with a more rigorous cleaning regime, the data centre significantly reduced contamination and minimized the risk of server failure. This case study highlights the critical role facilities service contractors play in maintaining optimal data center environments. Partnering with a qualified contractor who understands the specific needs of cleanroom environments and implements industry best practices is essential for ensuring data center uptime and preventing costly disruptions.

Case Study – Data Center Energy Performance, Obsolescence, and Dependability Assessment

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Mission-critical data centres are the backbone of businesses, and it’s imperative to regularly assess and validate their energy performance, obsolescence, and dependability of the support utilities systems and subsystems. For telecom Businesses in regions across India, a comprehensive assessment of mobile switching and data centres was undertaken.

The comprehensive study mandated included the following components:

A process flow was mapped for the comprehensive performance assessment of the Data Centre.

1. A thorough assessment of the infrastructure’s environmental, health, and safety attributes.
• A detailed risk assessment based on indoor environmental test outcomes.
• Implementing risk mitigation measures, including enhancements to the clean room ventilation and filtration systems as necessary.
• A fire and life safety assessment to identify potential high risks and impacts on individuals and property.
2. Evaluation of site-specific location sustainability and transportation factors.
• Adequate space allocation for the Data Center and utilities to meet current and future requirements.
• Reliable availability of electricity and water sources to support present and anticipated needs.
• Assessment of location sustainability considering the risks from nearby fuel stations, concert halls, political establishments, and government institutions.
• Accessibility to renewable power sources for enhanced connectivity.
• Public transportation options within a 1.0 km radius of the site.
• Accessibility to skilled manpower from local communities.
3. Full-Time Employee (FTE) detailing and competency assessment:
• FTE detailing was conducted based on critical service needs.
• Comprehensive identification of competency and training needs.
4. Compliance with local and national regulatory guidelines includes reviewing compliance gaps concerning mandatory rules and regulations and risk mitigation actions taken over the past three years.
5. Evaluation of operations and maintenance services, including energy management, HVAC systems, water management, and waste management:
• Analysis of operating procedures and practices in alignment with governing standards and sustainability principles.
• Development of maintenance manuals for the operations team.
6. Energy performance assessment of the entire building and major critical systems (HVAC, electrical, and water):
• Evaluation of energy performance based on historical energy records.
• Baselining energy consumption for systems, sub-systems and the whole building.
• Spot measurements to identify the scope for efficiency improvement.
7. Creation of a short- and long-term capital investment business case for energy efficiency improvements on behalf of the client:
• Business case development for enhancing the energy efficiency of critical systems.
• Retrofit engineering solutions designed to improve energy and performance efficiency.
8. Dependability study of critical systems focusing on electrical power, HVAC, and water management:
• Assessment of reliability, availability, and maintainability.
• Obsolescence assessment.
9. Equipment condition assessment, which includes thermal scanning, power quality analysis, vibration and noise assessments:
• Evaluation of equipment age and reliability.
10. Capacity utilisation and forecasting for effective capacity management:
• Simple regression analysis of multiple variables to forecast the data centre’s most probable demand capacity for electricity, water, and waste management.
11. Functional criticality evaluation:
• Establishment of a functional criticality assessment based on Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA) tools.
12. Perform ‘Integrated System Test’ of Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing, Lifts, HVAC, Fire Alarm and Suppression systems, Electronic surveillance and access control systems of the building and follow ‘Failure Reporting and Corrective Analysis System’ (FRACAS) procedure.
13. Development of a business case for capital investment projects aimed at improving, upgrading, and modifying systems and sub-systems:
• Submission of a capital investment project proposal for improvements, upgrades, and modifications.

Grading Asset Condition Survey and Action Priority

Preventive and Corrective or Improvement Maintenance Priorities

Priority 1
Failure or absence of critical elements has a direct impact on health and life safety.
Priority 2
Non-compliance with mandatory local and national statutory and legal requirements is identified.
Priority 3
Failure or absence of critical systems or sub-systems affects business operations.
Priority 4
Improvements or modifications in system or sub-system assets can enhance cost efficiency, service quality, and sustainability.

Critical Asset Condition Grading

Class A
The system/sub-system is fully operational and meets all design performance specifications without any issues.
Class B
The system/sub-system is functional and adheres to design performance standards. However, there are minor signs of wear or reduced efficiency at the equipment or component level.
Class C
The system/sub-system is still operational but shows significant degradation in condition or performance efficiency, deviating from the optimal design intent in several areas at the equipment or component level.
Class D
There is a serious risk of the imminent breakdown of critical element(s) running the risk of a major system breakdown.

Power Quality for Data Centre

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Modern Data Centers of varying sizes and types are constructed and operated at a “Mission Critical Environment” level of criticality to meet business objectives. The reliability and availability of an Enterprise Data Center are expected to be no less than 99.99%. Research programs have established that the quality of stable and reliable power sourcing and distribution design is essential in maintaining the power system’s reliability and availability for electronic loads.

This article discusses the general requirements for power sourcing and distribution systems for electronic loads. It also includes a typical cause-effect analysis and proposes solutions to common power quality issues. 

Why is Power Quality Important to Data Centers?

Cause-effect analysis of Power Quality (PQ) related disturbances

Power Quality Threshold Limits for Data Center

Regular monitoring and assessment of power quality are crucial for a data centre, as they are necessary for operational and change-management requirements. Periodic assessment of power quality is also essential to troubleshoot power-related interruptions, abnormal system behaviour, the addition of new electronic equipment, or developing a baseline.

Solutions to Power Quality related disruptions.

The reliability and availability of data centres depend on the quality of the power supply. To ensure optimal performance and energy efficiency, the key performance indexes must be kept within acceptable threshold limits. This also contributes to the reliability and availability of the power distribution system.

Collaboration with key stakeholders, such as IT experts, end-users, and utility service providers, is crucial in maintaining the electrical power network. By taking input from all stakeholders, the Facility Team must develop a maintenance regime that adequately addresses any issues related to the power network. This approach ensures that the data center operates optimally, providing a seamless experience for all users.