Facilities managers are responsible for the upkeep and management of buildings and systems. This can include everything from HVAC and plumbing to electrical and security. No two days are the same for a facilities manager, which is why having the right tools is essential to getting the job done efficiently and effectively. In this blog post, we will explore 9 different tools that every facilities manager needs in order to be successful. From asset management software to task management apps, these tools will help you stay on top of your game and keep your facility running like a well-oiled machine.
1. Janitorial Supplies
No matter what kind of facility you manage, there are certain janitorial supplies that you’ll need in order to keep the place clean and running smoothly. Here is a list of essential janitorial supplies for any facilities manager:
Broom and dustpan – A good broom and dustpan set is a must-have for any facilities manager. You’ll need them for sweeping up any dirt, dust, or debris that accumulates on your floors.
Mop and bucket – A mop and bucket are essential for cleaning hard floors. Be sure to choose a mop that’s appropriate for the type of flooring in your facility.
Sponges and scrub brushes – Sponges and scrub brushes are necessary for cleaning surfaces that can’t be reached with a mop or broom. They’re also great for spot-cleaning spills and stains.
Detergent – A good quality detergent is crucial for getting surfaces clean. Choose a detergent that will work well with the cleaning equipment you have and the type of surfaces you need to clean.
Trash bags – Trash bags are essential for keeping your facility free of garbage and debris. Be sure to choose the right size and type of bag for your trash cans.
These are just some of the basic janitorial supplies that every facilities manager needs. By stocking up on these items, you’ll be prepared to keep your facility clean and running smoothly.
2. Cleaning Equipment
There is a wide range of cleaning equipment available to facilities managers, but some of the most essential items include a vacuum cleaner, mop, bucket, and cleaning supplies. These items are necessary for keeping floors clean and dust-free, and for dealing with spills and other messes.
When choosing a vacuum cleaner, it is important to select one that is powerful enough to deal with the type of flooring in your facility. For example, if you have hardwood floors, you will need a different vacuum than if you have carpeting. There are many different types of mops available on the market, so it is important to choose one that is best suited for your needs. Buckets are essential for carrying cleaning supplies and water, and for storing dirty mops and brushes.
Cleaning supplies are another essential part of any facilities manager’s toolkit. A good selection of cleaning supplies should include all-purpose cleaner, glass cleaner, furniture polish, and disinfectant wipes. These items will help you keep all surfaces in your facility clean and free from germs.
3. Maintenance Tools
One of the most important aspects of being a facilities manager is maintaining the tools you use on a daily basis. Here are some essential maintenance tools that every facilities manager needs:
1. A good set of hand tools. This includes a hammer, screwdrivers, pliers, and wrenches.
2. A cordless drill. This is essential for drilling holes and driving screws.
3. A power sander. This is necessary for sanding down rough surfaces.
4. A ladder. This is essential for reaching high places.
5. A wheelbarrow. This is necessary for transporting heavy loads around the facility.
4. Safety Gear
There is a lot of safety gear that facilities managers need in order to do their job effectively. This includes items such as hard hats, safety glasses, gloves, and steel-toed boots.
Hard hats are necessary when working around potential falling objects or debris. Safety glasses protect the eyes from flying particles or chemicals. Gloves help to keep the hands clean and free of debris. Steel-toed boots protect the feet from heavy objects or sharp objects.
Facilities managers should always wear the proper safety gear when working. This will help to prevent injuries and keep them safe while on the job.
5. Office Supplies
If you’re responsible for managing a facility, it’s important to have the right tools at your disposal. Here are some essential office supplies that every facilities manager needs:
1. A good supply of cleaning products. Keeping your facility clean is one of your top priorities, so make sure you have a good stock of cleaning supplies on hand.
2. An adequate supply of paper and other office supplies. Don’t let yourself run out of essentials like printer paper or toner cartridges.
3. A first aid kit. Accidents happen, so it’s important to be prepared with a first aid kit in case someone gets hurt on your watch.
4. A reliable set of tools. From fixing a leaky faucet to changing a lightbulb, you’ll need a good set of tools to help you maintain your facility.
5. A comfortable pair of shoes! You’ll be doing a lot of walking as you manage your facility, so make sure you have a comfortable pair of shoes to help you get through the day.
6. Tech Tools
As a facilities manager, you need to be familiar with a wide variety of tech tools to help you do your job effectively. Here are some of the most important tech tools you should know about:
1. Building Automation Systems: Building automation systems (BAS) are used to manage and monitor a variety of building functions, including HVAC, lighting, security, and fire/life safety systems. A good BAS can help you save energy, improve comfort levels, and increase security.
2. Computer-Aided Facilities Management (CAFM) Software: CAFM software is used to manage all aspects of facility operations, from maintenance and cleaning to space utilization and event scheduling. This type of software can help you boost efficiency and productivity while reducing costs.
3. Energy Management Systems: Energy management systems (EMS) are used to monitor and control a building’s energy consumption. EMS can help you reduce energy costs and meet sustainability goals.
4. Building Information Modeling (BIM): BIM is a technology that allows you to create a digital model of a building that can be used for planning, design, construction, and operations purposes. BIM can help you save time and money while improving the quality of your work.
5. Facility Condition Assessment (FCA) Tools: FCA tools are used to assess the condition of a building or facility so that necessary repairs or upgrades can be made. These tools can help you keep your facility in good condition and avoid costly downtime.
7. Furniture
Assuming you’re furnishing a new office or outfitting a workspace for the first time, there are some basic furniture items every facilities manager needs. Of course, the specific furniture will vary depending on the type of business and the work that takes place there. But in general, every facility needs chairs, desks, filing cabinets, and storage shelves.
Chairs should be comfortable and ergonomic to support employees during long hours at their desk. Desks should be large enough to accommodate computers, monitors, paperwork, and other necessary materials, but not so large that they take up too much space in the office. Filing cabinets are essential for storing important documents securely, and storage shelves can be used to organize office supplies or keep materials off the floor.
When choosing furniture for your office, it’s important to consider both function and style. You want pieces that will help your employees work efficiently and comfortably, but that also fit with the overall aesthetic of your space. With so many different furniture options available on the market today, it’s easy to find pieces that meet all of your needs.
8. Art and Décor
There are a few key tools every facilities manager needs to keep their building running smoothly. These include items like a master key system, floor mats, and waste management supplies.
1. Art and Décor: A well-decorated facility makes a good first impression on guests and clients. It also helps to create a pleasant work environment for employees. Facilities managers should consider the type of décor that is appropriate for their business and budget.
2. Floor Mats: Floor mats are an important part of keeping a facility clean and safe. They can help to prevent slip-and-fall accidents, as well as protect flooring from dirt and debris.
3. Waste Management Supplies: Proper waste management is essential for any business. Facilities managers should have a plan in place for how to dispose of trash and recycling. They may also need to purchase special supplies, such as garbage cans or recycling bins.
9. Plants and Greenery
A well-maintained landscape not only enhances the curb appeal of your property, but it can also increase its value. And, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, plants and greenery can also help filter out pollutants and improve air quality.
As a facilities manager, you play a key role in ensuring that your property’s landscape is healthy and looking its best. Here are some tools you need in your toolbox to help you accomplish this:
-Loppers: Loppers are ideal for cutting down small branches and twigs.
-Pruning shears: Pruning shears are perfect for trimming leaves and smaller branches.
-Gardening gloves: Gardening gloves will protect your hands from thorns and other sharp objects.
-Garden hose: A garden hose is essential for watering plants and washing away debris.
-Watering can: A watering can is a necessity for giving plants a drink, especially during dry spells.
Duta Swarna Dwipa is B to B MRO Procurement for Industrial Factory Supplies Throughout Indonesia
As a facilities manager, it’s important to have a reliable supplier for all of your Maintenance, Repair, and Operations (MRO) needs. Duta Swarna Dwipa is a leading B2B MRO procurement company based in Indonesia. We serve industrial factories throughout the country with quality factory supplies and equipment.
Some of the products and services we offer include:
– Air compressors
– Pumps
– Motors
– Filters
– HVAC systems
– Electrical supplies
– Plumbing supplies
– janitorial supplies
Conclusion
Keeping a facility running smoothly is no easy feat, but with the right tools in your toolkit, it can be a lot easier. From janitorial supplies to software that helps you keep track of maintenance tasks, these 9 tools are essential for any facilities manager. With the help of these tools, you can keep your facility running like a well-oiled machine.
References
- What Are The Roles And Responsibilities Of A Facilities Manager …. (2022). Retrieved on November 12, 2022, from https://limblecmms.com/blog/facilities-manager-roles-and-responsibilities/.
- Ashok Sharma. (2022). 5 Essential Tools For Facility Managers. Retrieved on November 12, 2022, from https://elearningindustry.com/5-essential-tools-for-facility-managers.
- Audience Ops. (2022). Important Facility Management Tools and Techniques | The …. Retrieved on November 12, 2022, from https://thereceptionist.com/blog/5-essential-tools-for-facilities-managers/.
- Montana Cumming. (2022). Best Management Tools for Facilities. Retrieved on November 12, 2022, from https://blog.perfectmind.com/best-facility-management-tools.
