Ops Talk Spring 2022

Covering all aspects of educational facilities and operations.

Talk Spring 2022

2022 EFMA Conference

PUBLICATIONS MAIL AGREEMENT #40934510

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m .efmabc.co

Details, registration, and delegate information inside

Grading on a curve

Vernon’s BX Elementary School expansion

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IN THIS ISSUE Message from EFMA President................................. 8

2022 Conference information................................ 32

2021- 2022 EFMA Executive Members...............10

Promoting healthy indoor air quality in schools......................................................... 42

The loss of a long-time member and friend John Prunkle...................................................................12 Leading with Focus: EFMABC Spring Leadership Workshop.................14

Keeping students safe with resilient earthquake-resistant design...................................44 A proven way to make indoor air safe...................48

EFMABC member profile – Jodie Miller.................18

Preparing to protect what matters most............ 50

EFMABC member profile – Justin Edwards......... 20

What are ethics? – by Chuck Morris..................... 52

School District 72 FortisBC Award.........................22

The benefits of an inspection program for school exteriors...................................54

Leadership – by Chuck Morris................................. 23 Grading on a curve Vernon’s BX Elementary expansion....................... 24 Creating flexible classrooms with technology... 28

From the floor up......................................................... 56 Thoughts On: Why? – by Chuck Morris................ 58 Embracing creativity to find solutions.................. 59

Successful washroom design in the age of COVID..................................................... 31

ON THE COVER

Kimco Controls Ltd................................................................ 4 KMBR Architects Planners Inc......................................... 18 Merlin Instrumentation...................................................... 41 Milliken & Company............................................................57 National Air Technologies.................................................. 47 Nitro Pipe Freeze Inc..........................................................22 Noratek Solutions Inc.........................................................55 Rocky Point Engineering Ltd............................................ 15 Roofing Contractors Association of B.C........................ 19 Royal Stewart Ltd................................................................46 Schoolhouse Products Inc................................................. 12 Spears Sales & Service Ltd.............................................. 41 Station One Architects.......................................................23 Think Space...........................................................................59 Time Access Systems Inc.................................................. 47 Topside Consulting (2004) Ltd........................................48 Trane Canada-West.............................................................49 Viessmann Manufacturing Company Inc....................... 13 Vipco Visual Boards............................................................27 Wesco....................................................................................IFC Westexcel Automation Ltd................................................46 Winmar (Canada) International, Ltd...................................7

This photo depicts early summer landscape Near Walhachin just east of Cache Creek. Our province has so many incredible landscapes that we find ourselves in. From dry areas like these near SD #74 (Gold Trail) to the 80,000 square kilometres of SD #82 in the northwest corner of B.C. to large metropolitan areas such as Vancouver (SD #39), we can marvel where we are. Some quite remote, some with hours to get from one point to another to the bustle of large cities. Let’s enjoy where we all work.

Photo by Chuck Morris.

6

Ops Talk • Spring 2022

President / Publisher DAVID LANGSTAFF Managing Editor TAMMY SCHUSTER tammy@delcommunications.com Advertising Sales Manager DAYNA OULION dayna@delcommunications.com Advertising Sales GARY BARRINGTON JENNIFER HEBERT DAN ROBERTS Editorial Contributions TRAVIS ELWOOD ALAN KAVANAUGH GLENN MILLER CHUCK MORRIS JAMES PETERS

INDEX TO ADVERTISERS Airplus Industrial Corp.......................................................25 Allmar Inc..............................................................................21 Ally Emergency Management Inc.................................... 41 American Specialties, Inc....................................... 30 & 31 Apex Building Sciences Inc...............................................22 Caliber Sport Systems........................................................53 CIP Modular............................................................................11 D.G. MacLachlan Ltd...........................................................26 Delos Canada........................................................................43 Dobbin Sales Ltd.................................................................... 9 E.B. Horsman & Son............................................................ 47 Erv Parent..............................................................................21 ESC Automation / Ainsworth.........................................OBC Falcon Engineering Ltd....................................................... 16 Forestry Innovation Investment Ltd................................45 Fort Modular............................................................................ 3 Front Row Education...........................................................29 Garaventa Lift......................................................................21 HSL Automation Ltd.............................................................17 IBC Technologies................................................................... 5 Integral Group...................................................................... 41 IRC Building Sciences........................................................58 Iredale Architecture............................................................26

Published by: DEL Communications Inc. Suite 300, 6 Roslyn Road Winnipeg, Manitoba R3L 0G5 www.delcommunications.com

Production services provided by: S.G. Bennett Marketing Services Creative Director / Design KATHLEEN CABLE Copyright 2022. EFMA. All rights reserved. The contents of this publication may not be reproduced by any means, in whole or in part, without the prior written consent of the publisher.

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While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein and the reliability of the source, the publisher in no way guarantees nor warrants the information and is not responsible for errors, omissions or statements made by advertisers. Opinions and recommendations made by contributors or advertisers are not necessarily those of the publisher, its directors, officers or employees.

Publications mail agreement #40934510 Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: DEL Communications Inc. Suite 300, 6 Roslyn Road Winnipeg, MB R3L 0G5 Email: david@delcommunications.com PRINTED IN CANADA 04/2022

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MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT OF EFMA

Chuck Morris How are all of you doing? By the time you read this we will be over two years battling various waves of COVID and its variants! It has been a long haul, and everyone is likely tired of masking up, washing hands, and just generally being careful.

Your Executive has been working hard behind the scenes to keep the Association moving and viable. I want to thank the following for all their hard work: Archie Stogianos, Vice President; Rick Delorme, Past President; Harry Kumar, Secretary Treasurer; Travis Elwood, Director; Albert Klade, Director; Megan MacDonald, Director; Cintha Winters, Director; Glenn Miller, Executive Director; Molly Shipowich, Administration; Andrew MacKay, Exhibitor Representative; Paul Williamson, Exhibitor Representative.

Each of the people listed above work hard for you. As well as working their own jobs, they carry a load with EFMA of work that is scheduled (hoping for a return to live action conference!), day to day running of the Association, as well as attending (if they are able) a monthly Presidents open agenda zoom session. Along with that, we have four Executive meetings each year plus the Spring Directors and annual Conference to deal with. This is where a lot of new ideas come from or results presented for other work accomplished. We have made a lot of headway on many fronts.

We are in a new year now and I trust you are looking forward to daylight and successfully advancing to better times. We will always have a lot of work to do and Ops Talk magazine hopefully gives you a look at new products, processes, and ideas.

There are a number of people involved with content, layout, topics, and double checking everything between the covers. Hats off to Del Communications as they have done a great job since the first issue back in 2004!

Our goals are to support all of you. Whether that means just picking up the phone to ask for help or developing educational sessions to bring you outstanding speakers on such topics as Resilient Leadership, a Secretary Treasurers outlook on Facilities, and Ministry updates. Our Education Committee will be re-established after the framework is finished. We have so many new people because of retirements that education needs to be at the forefront. Watch for that coming over the next few months.

It has truly been my pleasure standing as the current President of EFMA and ensuring we are being productive along the way. I am proud to represent this fine organization.

We have an updated and NEW Code of ETHICS and standards appearing on our website before June. Read them please. These help solidify what we stand for and how we respond to things. It is all about knowledge and professionalism!

Thank you everyone! n 8

Ops Talk • Spring 2022

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2021-2022 EFMA EXECUTIVE MEMBERS To reach the EFMABC executive: info@efmabc.com PRESIDENT CHUCK MORRIS VICE-PRESIDENT ARCHIE STOGIANOS

SD#61 Victoria

491 Cecelia Road, Victoria, BC V8T 4T4

Tel: 250-920-3401

Email: cmorris@sd61.bc.ca

SD#22 Vernon Tel: 250-549-9210

1401 - 15th Street, Vernon, BC V1T 8S8 Email: astogianos@sd22.bc.ca

PAST PRESIDENT RICK DELORME

Email: rdelorme99@shaw.ca

SECRETARY-TREASURER HARRY KUMAR

SD#37 Delta

7186 Brown Street, Delta, BC V4G 1G8

Tel: 604-952-5224

Email: hakumar@deltasd.bc.ca

DIRECTORS CERTIFICATION/EDUCATION DIRECTOR TRAVIS ELWOOD SD#83 North Okanagan Shuswap Tel: 250-832-9415

CERTIFICATION/EDUCATION DIRECTOR MEGAN MACDONALD SD#43 Coquitlam Tel: 604-468-6868

CERTIFICATION/EDUCATION DIRECTOR ALBERT KLADE SD#34 Abbotsford CONFERENCE DIRECTOR CINTHA WINTERS

P.O. Box 129, 5911 Auto Road SE, Salmon Arm, BC V1E 4N2 Email: telwood@sd83.bc.ca

1982 Kingsway Avenue, Coquitlam, BC V3C 1S5 Email: mmacdonald@sd43.bc.ca

Tel: 604-852-9494, ext. 2316

31759 King Road, Abbotsford, BC V2T 5Z2 Email: albert.klade@abbyschools.ca

SD#38 Richmond Tel: 604-668-6000

5200 River Road, Richmond, BC V7C 1A4 Email: cwinters@sd38.bc.ca

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR GLENN MILLER Cell: 250-516-9596

SECRETARY MOLLY SHIPOWICH Tel: 604-943-3314

2439 Echo Valley Drive, Victoria, BC V9B 0S1 Email: exec.dir@telus.net

PO Box 19032, 1153 – 56th Street,Delta, BC V4L 2P8 Email: society@telus.net

EXHIBITOR REPRESENTATIVES ANDREW MCKAY

Tremco Roofing and Building Maintenance Cell: 604-365-7378 Email: amckay@tremco.ca

PAUL WILLIAMSON

National Air Technologies Tel: 604-730-9300 Cell: 604-828-1299

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Ops Talk • Spring 2022

Email: pwilliamson@natech.ca

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The loss of a long-time member and friend JOHN PRUNKLE

I am sad to advise that we have lost a long-time member and friend of EFMA, John Prunkle.

John was a member of EFMA Executive for many years and served as President of EFMA in 2001/2002. He was also a zone rep for Zone 2 and actively participated in EFMA workshops forever and a day...

John retired from school district operations in 2019 as he battled Parkinsons disease. I was honoured to step in for John in Revelstoke as Director of Facilities.

Unfortunately, John lost this fight on December 12, 2021.

He will always be remembered for his dry sense of humour but mostly for his terrible jokes right John???

Our hearts and prayers go out to his wife Fran and his family and friends.

May you rest in peace John.

Author Glenn Miller

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2022 EFMABC SPRING LEADERSHIP WORKSHOP

“LEADING WITH FOCUS”

two-day workshop was designed to highlight the importance and need of strong leadership as we move into post-pandemic realities.

President Chuck Morris opened our workshop, and Executive Director Glenn Miller was the emcee for the event.

We began our workday with a moment of silence for those who have died in Ukraine.

The presenters and presentations included:

Michael Frost, Focused Education Resources Michael’s presentation was framed as a journey of discovery to the issues facing supply chain through 2021 and beyond and the impacts to the K-12 sector now and into the future. Michael believes that by working together we can present a singular voice to leverage the supply community’s desire to partner with and bring creativity, innovation, and value to the BC K-12 sector. Thanks Michael.

School District Directors Rick Delorme, Chuck Morris, Pete Godau Our round table panel discussions are a very well received and successful part of our education sesIt has been just shy of two years

district facilities warm, safe, and

sions. These three directors once

since

Manag-

dry despite the challenges around

again demonstrated how important

ers Association sat together in the

them. To all of them….a huge WELL

candid and progressive topics ben-

same room in the same city and

DONE!

efit all facility managers. With lots

EFMABC

Facility

talked, listened, shared stories, and

Our spring workshop titled “Lead-

of different areas covered including

heard numerous examples on how

ing with Focus” was held March 3

Capital funding, COVID 19 cleaning

school district facility leaders man-

and 4, 2022 in Richmond, B.C. Fifty

standards and procedures, HVAC

aged, coped, struggled and at the

facility managers, supervisors, and

systems, and much more. Thank

end of the day, kept B.C. school

directors attended the event. The

you, gents, for your work here.

14

Ops Talk • Spring 2022

Phil Eastwood, Fiore Group Training Inc.

capital funding program on both the

proval deadlines. Thanks Francois

minor and major side. The feedback

and Damien.

was much appreciated particularly

We are grateful to the following

with our new members that attend-

sponsors for supporting this years

ed. The message from Francois and

Leadership workshop. Their sup-

with each other and that by do-

Damien was that communication

port helps us put together a pro-

ing a bit of fine tuning, remarkable

between school district facilities

gram that benefits and applies to all

changes are possible. This very in-

and the Ministry’s Facility Capital

facility leaders. Many thanks!

teractive session had our attendees

Management Branch is more criti-

Barclay Sales, Caliber Sport, Can-

communicating with each other

cal now then ever as budgets and

star Restoration, Forbo Flooring,

and asked each person to look at

funding dollars move closer to ap-

Green Roots Play Equipment, Habi-

Phil’s enthusiastic presentation was a well received look in detail about how people communicate

themselves and how they communicate. Very positive and very enlightening. Thanks Phil.

Mike Morris, Retired RCMP Superintendent Mike presented a powerful number of examples and issues from his past 30+ years as a member of the

DESIGNING TO ENHANCE OUR ENVIRONMENT

RCMP. From constable to superintendent, Mike spoke about how resilience played a critical role in his career and life. Mike also reminded many of us, and reviewed in detail, the work of Steven Covey’s message and principles. Thanks Mike.

Kim Morris, Secretary-Treasurer School District #61 (Greater Victoria) As a member and representative of BCASBO on a number of key committees, Kim outlines how important our relationship is and must be with our Secretary-Treasurers.

Her presentation provided clear understanding of the expectations and the important role that facility managers have as essential voices at the learning table. We heard loud and clear, we ALL contribute to learning. Thanks Kim.

Francois Bertrand/ Damien Crowell, Ministry of Education Capital Facility Management Branch The Ministry once again provided attendees with an overview of their

credit to Calvin Owen Jones

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our Services include: New Building System Design Seismic Upgrades HVAC Upgrades Building Renovations & Additions Energy Modelling Ventilation/Air Quality Upgrades Dust Collection System Upgrades DDC System Upgrades High Efficiency Boiler Plant Retrofits credit to Calvin Owen Jones

For information on all our professional services, visit us at www.rpeng.ca, or call us at any of our seven BC offices:

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Educational Facility Managers Association of B.C. | www.efmabc.com 15

tat Systems, Integral Group, Merlin Instrumentation, National Air Technologies, Quantum Lighting, Swing Time Distributors, Tremco Roofing and Building Maintenance

their time and help. Thank you Harry, Rick, Archie, and Chuck.

Most of all, thank you all for taking the time and making the effort to attend. We do this for YOU!

THANK YOU TO:

Please don’t forgot our Annual Conference and Trade Show/ Annual General Meeting for 2022 will be held in Penticton May 30 to June 3, 2022. More details located

• Molly Shipowich for her help putting this together with all the logistics within a really short time frame • The Workshop Committee for

in the back of the magazine. n

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Ops Talk • Spring 2022

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EFMABC MEMBER PROFILE

Jodie Miller SCHOOL DISTRICT 64, GULF ISLANDS

reer change when she started with

construction company, she moved

the district in September 2020.

to serene Saltspring Island in 2020,

Miller, originally from Essex, Eng-

and what started as a temporary

land, graduated with a degree in

position with District 64, soon

civil engineering – a career she

turned into a full-time permanent

chose as teenager because of the

position.

It was the spirit of travel and adven-

opportunities to travel abroad. She

With her background in engi-

ture that brought Jodie Miller from

worked as an engineer in England,

neering and project management,

the world of engineering to facilities

New Zealand, Australia, and in the

Miller says stepping into facilities

management.

Philippines consulting on bridge

management has been quite a

As the director of facilities and

projects before she received the

steep learning curve. “We have an

transportation for School District

opportunity to emigrate to Canada.

amazing team here that have been

64, Gulf Islands, Miller made a ca-

After working in Vancouver for a

very supportive in showing me the ropes,” she says. “That makes a big difference when you are surrounded by good people.”

DESIGNING FOR HUMAN POTENTIAL

Based on Saltspring Island, the school district is comprised of 10 schools and covers the southern Gulf

Islands;

Galliano,

architecture planning interior design new construction renovations

Saltspring,

Pender,

and

Mayne, Saturna

Islands.

“There’s so much to continuously be learning in the role itself,” she says. “It’s busy, fast paced, and a fun challenge as well.”

Miller says that the Gulf Islands

|

district is a small one, which has www.kmbr.com

given her the opportunity to be involved at many levels including capital project management and

18

Ops Talk • Spring 2022

With her background in engineering and project management, Miller says stepping into facilities management has been quite a steep learning curve. “We have an amazing team here that have been very supportive in showing me the ropes.”

ming, and an entire wing of the fa-

to paint and has sold a few of her

cility is being renovated to become

original works in local art shows.

a modern office space for staff and community use, complete with programming and entrepreneurial space to go alongside creative courses for students.

Miller has quickly become accus-

“It sounds like a lifelong journey getting to this point,” she says. “I’m really lucky in my career, I’ve travelled quite a lot, and now sometimes I’m driving to work in the

tomed to island living as an avid

beauty of Saltspring Island, and I

hiker and camper, always enjoying

feel like pinching myself that I get

being by the water. She also loves

to live and work here.” n

transportation in addition to her role in facilities management.

In an effort to provide more efficiency and security, Miller and her team helped to overhaul and modernize several internal systems including the introduction of a new centralized transport registration system for parents to register children, and electronic tap cards for the students getting on and off the buses.

“It’s rewarding to think that all the effort that you put into your job benefits the students and the local community. So that’s a really fun part of the work that I enjoy.”

Another recent capital management project will see the school district receive its first electric bus to be put into operation this year on Mayne Island.

An upcoming summer project

A RoofStar Guarantee Is Simply Worry-Free.

But some people never learn.

that Miller is looking forward to is referred to as ‘Reconfiguration’ where the school district closes a

604-882-9734

rcabc.org

school to repurpose it for use over the summer months. This summer, the Saltspring Middle School will be closed and leased by the CRD to provide community programEducational Facility Managers Association of B.C. | www.efmabc.com 19

EFMABC MEMBER PROFILE

Justin Edwards SCHOOL DISTRICT 34 ABBOTTSFORD

It was close to the one-year anniversary of the COVID-19 pandemic when Justin Edwards began his position as Manager, Structural & Grounds at the Abbottsford School District. It was a precarious time to begin a new position especially in the facilities management industry. “It involved a lot of responding, reacting, and putting out fires, so it wasn’t a time where you had opportunities to learn and be proactive,” says Edwards.

As a carpenter by trade, Edwards first began working for the school district nine years ago after careers in the private construction industry and public highways services.

“I joined the district in 2013 as a trade carpenter and then five years 20

Ops Talk • Spring 2022

later an opportunity came up for a foreman’s position,” says Edwards, who believes it was combination of luck, qualifications, and his own enthusiasm that landed him the role. It was in that position where he worked with Len Shingler (current Assistant Director, Facilities & Transportation) whose mentorship helped Edwards into his current role as Manager, Structural & Grounds which he began in January 2021.

“I’ve had both private and public industry experiences which allows me to bring both perspectives to the table,” he says. “It’s definitely a very high learning curve, but I’m really enjoying the challenges.”

On top of the pandemic, Abbotsford also faced severe flooding in

late 2021 which hit the school district directly cutting off most transportation to the area. “At the time, only myself and one other manager were able to get to the school. So, it was up to the two of us to ensure everything was safe. There was a lot going on at that time for my first year.”

Edwards says that things are finally started to feel like normal with COVID restrictions lifting and people beginning to return to their typical routines. “We’re able to start properly planning and scheduling again which is nice.”

With the extensive flooding, an elementary school that flooded was closed in November for remediation and renovation and has now

reached completion. Edwards says it was a major project that took up all their resources and manpower since November, but students were able to move back in during the last week of March. “It was a very, very quick turnaround that took lots of logistics. It was ten weeks of significant planning and coordinating with the restoration company and all our maintenance staff. It was amazing,” he says. “We have a very good management team here, the

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Accessibility lifts

five children ranging in ages from 11-22.

After starting employment with the Abbotsford School District, Edwards knew he was there to stay.

“My previous work was in for-profit industries, so this was the first job where our efforts actually benefit the students.” He mentioned a meeting he attended earlier that day

that

involved

planning

a

summer project which includes

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satisfying and meaningful; plus, as a parent of a special needs child, making accessible spaces for all students is close to my heart” he says. “I have built many relationships

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the success of the children. Even though I still have a lot to learn and there are challenging days, the reward at the end is knowing that I am making a difference.” n

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Educational Facility Managers Association of B.C. | www.efmabc.com 21

School District 72 wins FortisBC Efficiency in Action award FortisBC recognized School District

School wood shop. These upgrades

72 Campbell River for their energy

are estimated to save 1,200 GJ of

efficiency by awarding them with

natural gas annually and support

the 2021 Efficiency in Action award

the school district’s ongoing efforts

in the medium commercial catego-

to educate students about saving

ry.

energy and taking care of the en-

School District 72 is focused on

vironment.

energy efficiency and reducing

“Start with the quick and easy

greenhouse gas emissions through-

wins to gain momentum and apply

out its 17 schools and alternate

for rebates, such as those provided

achieve big goals for sustainability,

learning centre serving a total of

by FortisBC, so you can reinvest in

saving energy and reducing green-

6,000 students. They received ap-

future energy conservation proj-

house gas emissions—which sup-

proximately $55,000 in rebates for

ects,” says Steve Woods, Manag-

ports FortisBC’s 30BY30 target to

high-efficiency equipment in 2020,

er of Operations, Campbell River

reduce customers’ emissions by 30

including boiler upgrades at Willow

School District.

per cent by 2030.

Point Elementary and Phoenix Mid-

The winners of this year’s Effi-

For more information surrounding

dle School, and a condensing make-

ciency in Action awards demon-

energy needs and energy-efficient

up air unit at the Southgate Middle

strate how working together helps

upgrades, visit Fortisbc.com. n

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LEADERSHIP

BY CHUCK MORRIS Our recent two-day leadership ses-

from your staff. As they build confi-

don’t need to slip into that type of

sions held in Richmond was great!

dence in how you perform and build

autocratic aggression.

I believe in what we do and how

trust, you will gain more respect.

Doing what has just been de-

we endeavor to build upon leader-

Being a good leader means you

scribed will create a much better

ship programs delivered for you.

speak the truth, have solid integrity,

environment for them (and you) as

I believe all of us can benefit from

use good moral judgement, take

the days carry on. A good idea is

the lessons learned. If you were not

complete responsibility, and OWN

to hold management and leader-

present, try to catch the next ses-

your actions. You do not have to

ship training sessions periodically.

sion.

make up a story to dispel your re-

This builds a better team and sug-

Read. There are a lot of papers

sponsibilities; you do not need to

gests to your staff that good things

on leadership. Search the internet

remember a ‘little white lie’ to cover

are happening. Why would the boss

and you may find a few choice sites

your mistakes. Always OWN them.

spend all that time with us? Because

where you can glean great, positive

Never pass blame onto any of your

for those of us who have been there,

information. I did that many years

staff!

we have seen the results. Those re-

Use mistakes a staff member may

sults mean you have a great team

Tell stories as you begin to feel

have made as a learning moment.

in front of you and have likely pre-

more comfortable and confident

Bring them into your office and talk

pared them for a new challenge if

in your delivery of tips and lessons

about what you have seen and per-

they want to take on more respon-

on how you should be leading. Sto-

haps may have heard. Identify what

sibility and possibly post out for a

ries, interwoven throughout what-

you saw and talk to them, identify-

new position in the district they cur-

ever you are trying to say exemplify

ing that perhaps there is a better

rently work in or another one they

and more easily illustrates what you

way. Use this as a teaching mo-

may want to try for. Don’t discour-

are emphasizing to those listening.

ment without accusation, without

age them from advancing. Some-

Leadership is necessary and if done

demeaning anyone, without raising

one gave you that break years ago.

right will allow you to learn as well;

your voice, or hitting the table. You

Think about that. n

ago.

a past you can trust and a future you can depend on soarchitects.com

Educational Facility Managers Association of B.C. | www.efmabc.com 23

Grading on a curve Vernon’s BX Elementary School expansion nearly complete

BY JAMES PETERS At the end of July 2021, about the

think there were many reasons

the size of the original. Ten of the

only thing left to finish on the BX

for that happy scenario, includ-

classrooms will be used as soon

Elementary School expansion in

ing the cooperation between the

as the kids return, and two will re-

Vernon, B.C. was some final grad-

general contractor, Sawchuk De-

main available for future growth.

ing and additional landscaping.

velopments of Kelowna, and our

The student population has been

The construction project, which

local architectural company, MQN

steadily increasing for years at BX

got underway in May 2020, will be

from Vernon. But another impor-

Elementary, which ultimately saw

completed ahead of time and on

tant factor was the school teach-

five portable classrooms added to

budget, according to Project Man-

ers, the administrators and the stu-

the school grounds to accommo-

ager Archie Stogianos.

dents, who all deserve a round of

date this growth. With construc-

applause – everyone really handled

tion now complete, all of the por-

the disruption professionally.”

tables have been removed from

“I’ve been in construction for most of my adult life and I can’t remember a project going this

The nearly $12-million expan-

site. The new classrooms are a true

smoothly,” says Stogianos, who is

sion has added an additional 240

extension of the original building,

also the Director of Facilities for

seats to the school through 12 ex-

and all were built to the maximum

Vernon School District No. 22. “I

tra classrooms – nearly doubling

allowable square footage – roughly

24

Ops Talk • Spring 2022

the same size as the existing classrooms.

“We maximized the window size in the new rooms and kept the design and construction simple and functional with modern lighting and Direct Digital Controls (DDCs),” says Stogianos. “All aspects of the expansion were constructed with wood framing due to the building being a simple single storey with six-foot crawl space.”

In addition, the expansion incorporated larger hallways, better traffic flows, clean sight lines to improve hallway supervision, and all of the new rooms have large windows to allow as much natural light in as possible. The school’s existing classrooms will be renovated to match the designs in the new construction. On the energy efficiency

ment, Robert Lee, Board Chair of

In January of 2021, the school

front, new air-source heat pumps

the Vernon School District, said,

was fully occupied and operation-

for the HVAC system were also in-

“Vernon is a great place to live, and

al. “We had to relocate two of the

corporated, making for a much

School District 22 is a great place

portables for construction, but the

smaller carbon footprint. Rounding

to learn. These classrooms will al-

school was at full capacity through-

things off were the addition of low-

low all students and staff to be in

out,” says Stogianos. “Yes, it’s truly

maintenance interior and exterior

one building and will enhance the

unfortunate that we started during

finishes.

inclusive and collaborative learning

COVID, but that fact didn’t really af-

environment at BX Elementary.”

fect the construction of the school.”

The province provided $11.1 million for the expansion and the Vernon Board of Education contributed another $425,000. Many of the students were already spending full days in portables, and enrolment is only expected to increase in the coming years, according to a B.C.

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Government press release. Without

Formerly ETP Energy Technology Products

the addition, the province said the

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school would have had to double its number of portables in the next 10 years.

B.C.’s Minister of Education, Rob Fleming, was recently quoted saying, “I can’t wait to see every student at BX learning in classrooms that keep them fully connected to the great school community they have in Vernon.” Echoing that state-

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Planning for the expansion had

we fenced off the construction

where the original school started,

started well before the pandemic,

portion, the emergency exits were

and the new expansion begins.”

but Stogianos says the impact of

never blocked, and we always used

Making the most of the disrup-

COVID-19 was manageable. “Teach-

a crossing guard for the introduc-

tion, many of the teachers took the

ers and students were following all

tion of any large equipment on site.

opportunity to use the construc-

of the government’s protocols, of

With regular safety inspections tak-

tion project – complete with heavy

course, and those of us on the con-

ing place throughout, we passed

equipment – as a teaching oppor-

struction site were doing the same,”

with flying colours every time.”

tunity.

he explains. “But I think because the

Stogianos says that cooperation

“The teachers did an amazing job

task was so well organized from the

between the GC and the architect

that way – any time a piece of big

very beginning, COVID precautions

was enhanced with by coopera-

equipment was on-site, they would

didn’t disrupt our progress in any

tion from the sub-trades. “That kind

bring the kids out to show them and

significant way.”

of harmony is what really kept the

explain what was going on,” Stogia-

project safe, on budget, and run-

nos says. “Who knows, maybe we’ll

ning smoothly.”

have some future tradespeople and

The pandemic certainly created the need for even more attention

heavy equipment operators as a re-

to the already stringent safety pro-

In terms of the exterior, he says

tocols enforced at construction

that the entire school essentially re-

sites everywhere, and this project

ceived a full makeover. “The MQN

This article originally appeared

had the added wrinkle of ensuring

architectural group had planned for

in the fall 2021 issue of SICA Con-

the safety of children was always

an exterior upgrade of the entire

struction Review magazine and is

paramount. “Safety is that much

school and blended the appear-

reprinted with permission from the

more important when young kids

ance of the new with the existing

Southern Interior Construction As-

are involved,” says Stogianos. “So

to match, and you really can’t tell

sociation. n

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26

Ops Talk • Spring 2022

sult!”

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How schools are creating flexible classrooms with cutting edge technology Ultimately, flexible classrooms can promote equity, access, and help facilitate social-emotional learning. Embracing social-emotional learning in early education and continuing to develop these skills throughout all grade levels creates job-ready young adults with soft skills that employers need.

How audio solutions help make classrooms flexible

Many districts are adopting flexible learning spaces to bolster student engagement and collaboration, promote social-emotional learning, and enable different instruction delivery methods. The hallmark of a flexible classroom is to create a space that can adapt to any instruction method, style, or delivery. One obvious characteristic of flexible classrooms is that they must be able to physically accommodate any classroom setup—from the traditional row of desks where teachers primarily remain front of stage to modern layouts that encourage group collaboration and teachers circulate throughout the space to provide guidance to groups or individual students.

The technology stack within the classroom also enables classrooms to be flexible. With the right technology stack, classrooms can be used effectively for online and in28

Ops Talk • Spring 2022

person learning. Effective teaching and seamless learning require technology support that is easy to use and enhances teaching and learning, in whatever form they may take. For example, classroom audio distribution systems promote student engagement in every instructional space and connect students who may be learning remotely. Technology control and management systems are also needed make it effortless for teachers to use the technology.

Who benefits from flexible classrooms Flexible classrooms help promote equity in learning among a diverse population of students.

Students themselves are the biggest benefactors of this radical shift. Technology reduces learning barriers for both mainstream and special needs students and teaching barriers for instructors.

In its simplest form, a classroom audio solution pairs a microphone device for the teacher with strategically placed speakers for the students. Ideally, the system is specifically designed for K-12 to ensure intelligibility of sound as well as amplification and sound distribution.

This allows students to easily hear instruction, which leads them to be more engaged in active learning. For teachers, they can prevent vocal strain because they do not need to use their “teacher’s voice.”

Classroom audio also helps make the space effective with any classroom layout chosen. Students can hear the teacher clearly regardless of where or how they are sitting.

In addition, audio technology makes it easy to capture live lessons so that teachers can provide learning in different formats. For example, if a student is sick and misses an in-person class, he or she can watch the recorded lesson instead of getting left behind. For districts that offer flexibility between remote and in-person learning, these tools are essential to giving both students the same experience.

This type of universal access to

truly no more. Educators need to

adapted their solutions for today’s

learning materials helps bridge the

engage with a diverse population

education

gap in classroom equity. Students

of students with different learn-

rooms can be truly flexible spaces

who need more time to review the

ing needs. Districts need to deliver

where engagement is promoted

material will have access to review

education in multiple ways, while

for both students in-class and

it, and parents who want to help

also advancing social-emotional

learning from home. With a K-12

students can get a firsthand view

learning, for the best outcomes

focus, FrontRow systems are pow-

of the lesson as well.

possible. But first, the classroom

erful inside but simple to use on

space must be designed properly

the outside to help teachers seam-

for flexibility and with the right

lessly manage technology in the

technology in mind.

classroom and stay fully engaged

The takeaway The days of “cookie-cutter” and “one-size-fits-all” approaches are

Companies like FrontRow have

requirements.

Class-

with students.

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Educational Facility Managers Association of B.C. | www.efmabc.com 29

MASTERPIECE? NO, MARKERBOARD! Introducing our exclusive Elite Reveal markerboard. You won’t believe your eyes. And ASI offers the most comprehensive selection of high-end Visual Display Products on the market. Visit asi-visualdisplayproducts.com to explore the new standard for basis of design in markerboards.

Successful washroom design in the age of COVID-19 The washroom, arguably one of the most difficult

respond quickly to nearly any design requirement. The

design challenges today, may be one often taken for

ASI Group, for example, supplied and installed metal

granted and relegated as a menial design task.

partitions for an emergency COVID-19 field hospital in

With few exceptions, the washroom has emerged as a focal point in the journey back to normalcy. Leaders

Old Westbury, a village on the north shore of Long Island, NY, in 72 hours.

in fields like business, medicine, education, and trav-

Wide Design Freedom. Identify a supplier that pres-

el, who are anxious to put their organization back to

ents you with a large design palette. Don’t limit your-

work and bring customers back into their venues with

self to a narrow range of material choices just because

confidence, recognize this. If architects or facility own-

that’s all the supplier offers. For example, look for a

ers get the washroom wrong, workforce and customer

source that represents metal, plastic, and phenolic par-

distrust will spread like the virus itself, sowing seeds of

titions across a wide array of sizes and colours.

doubt about returning safely to these enterprises.

Think Open Source. Some soap and sanitizer com-

Dr. Greg Poland, professor of medicine and infec-

panies offer proprietary products that may sound

tious diseases at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minne-

good upfront, but lock the owner into a costly long-

sota, speaks plainly when describing the challenges

term contract. Don’t specify soap or sanitizer products

ahead. Consider the washroom water faucet and door

that ties up your owner financially and leaves them at

handles, for example. “We swabbed them and put petri

the mercy of an individual company’s supply chain. The

dishes in the incubator. The handles were grossly in-

recommendation is to use non-proprietary dispensers

fected with bacteria and viruses.”

that accept any qualified product which can increase

Today’s best practices to prevent the spread of infec-

availability and reduce costs.

tion may have come from ad hoc design patches devel-

1 Risking 100? Don’t underestimate the washroom. It

oped to solve immediate problems in hospitals, emer-

may represent less than 1 per cent of the building cost,

gency rooms, and other frontline washrooms since the

but it puts 100 per cent of the occupants at odds or

outbreak began. So, what’s the best way to elevate

at ease with their employer’s return-to-work decision.

these design patches into more long-term, thought-

A well-designed bathroom can be the deciding fac-

ful, design-driven solutions? It is a question that man-

tor in elevating a building from good to great. Bath-

agement at the ASI Group has given a lot of thought.

rooms, if given the requisite attention to detail, can

The ASI Group is a respected manufacturer and global

make a much greater positive impact on the user expe-

supplier of a wide variety of washroom accessories,

rience of a building—thus influencing their opinion of

sanitizer dispensers, toilet partitions, lockers, and visu-

the school, the town, the business, the building owner,

al display products. The acronym that ASI commonly

and the architects who designed the building. n

uses for its portfolio offerings is PALM – Partitions, Accessories, Lockers, and Markerboards.

Their work has allowed them to engage with architects and management teams at top hospitals across the globe and their understanding of a hospital’s needs born from collaborating with the medical industry throughout the ordeal gives them a unique perspective and may offer highly informed, real-world insights available nowhere else. They share a few thoughts about lessons learned: Collaborate. Our understanding of, and the demands placed on us by COVID-19 are constantly shifting. We advise designers to seek out suppliers that have a nimble mindset and manufacturing agility to

2022 CONFERENCE PROGRAM PENTICTON TRADE & CONVENTION CENTRE

MAY 30th – JUNE 3rd, 2022

2022 CONFERENCE PROGRAM PENTICTON TRADE & CONVENTION CENTRE May 30th – June 3rd, 2022

PRIDE & EXCELLENCE – RAISING THE“Pride BAR & Excellence – Raising the Bar” MONDAY, MAY 30

Pre-Registration is Required for Professional Sessions

Professional Development A: 8:00am – 4:00pm

Communication Toolbox Justice Institute of British Columbia Instructor: Pam Penner, Justice Institute of BC

Room 5

In this course, you will focus on communication skills that are the building blocks of mediating, negotiating, and resolving interpersonal conflict. Skills are demonstrated. Following, you will have the opportunity to practice short exercises involving conflict situations. Specific skills include non-defensive listening, reframing and assertive speaking.

Professional Development B: 8:30am – 3:30pm

Certificate of Recognition Internal Auditor Training Room Instructor: Justin Chouhan, Manager of Audit and Training Services, BC Municipal Safety Association This two-day course is for staff from local governments or naturally aligned organizations who wish to learn more about how the COR audit is conducted.

Participants wishing to become certified Internal Auditors must successfully complete a student audit within three (3) months. In order to maintain certification, two (2) maintenance (Internal) audits and seven (7) hours of approved training must be complete within three (3) years of Internal Auditor Certification.

Once registered, the BC Municipal Safety Association will contact you directly approximately one month prior to the course to send you a pre-requisite course to complete. Please ensure you complete the pre-requisite prior to taking the Internal Auditor course.

Note: Participants in this course are expected to bring a laptop.

32

Ops Talk • Spring 2022

6/7

TUESDAY, MAY 31 Professional Development A: continued 8:00am – 4:00pm

Room 5

Communication Toolbox Justice Institute of British Columbia Instructor: Pam Penner, Justice Institute of BC

Professional Development B: continued 8:30am – 3:30pm

Certificate of Recognition Internal Auditor Training BC Municipal Safety Association

1:00pm – 5:00pm

EFMA 24th Annual 9 Hole Golf Tournament (SOLD OUT) Sponsored by: On Side Restoration

Room 6/7 Penticton Golf & Country Club

Unitech Construction Management Ltd.

2:00pm – 7:00pm

Registration – Members and Exhibitors Sponsored by: Bunzl Cleaning and Hygiene

4:00pm – 7:00pm

Exhibitors Set-Up

7:00pm – 10:00pm

Presidents Reception Sponsored by: Tremco Roofing & Building Maintenance

10:00pm – 12:00am

Hospitality Suite – Everyone Welcome Sponsored by: Canstar Restoration

South Lobby Ballroom II/Salon A North Lobby

Kimco Controls Rocky Point Engineering Roofing Contractors Association of BC

Educational Facility Managers Association of B.C. | www.efmabc.com 33

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 1 South Lobby

7:30am – 9:00am

Registration – Members and Exhibitors Sponsored by: Bunzl Cleaning and Hygiene

8:00am – 9:30am

SSABC – Meet and Greet Chair: Surrena Craig, SD#6, Rocky Mountain

Room 2

8:30am – 9:00am

New Member Orientation

Room 5

9:00am – 9:30am

Zone Meetings – Continental breakfast

9:00am – 9:30am

Exhibitor Training – Conference Overview

9:30am – 10:00am

Zone Chair and Executive Meeting

9:30am – 11:30am

Visit Exhibitors Booths - Coffee Sponsored by: SMcN Consulting Inc.

Ballroom II/Salon A

11:30am – 1:30pm

Opening Ceremonies Delegates, Exhibitors and Partners Luncheon

Salon B/C

Keynote Speaker:

Ballroom II/Salon A Boardroom

Wayne Lee Peak Performance Expert, Hall of Fame Speaker, Award Winning Entertainer

Sponsored by: Quantum

Lighting Inc. Ballroom II/Salon A

1:30pm – 3:00pm

Visit Exhibitors Booths - Coffee Sponsored by: Talius

3:00pm – 4:15pm .

1. BC Fire Code and Responsibilities for School Districts and Principals Room Speaker: Alan Kavanaugh, Director of Loss Control & Risk Management, Noratek Solutions Inc.

6/7

Alan will discuss the responsibilities for School Staff and Principals according to the BC Fire code in regard to maintaining a safe facility for all. Specific information will be covered in regard to requirements, life safety, inspections and loss / injury mitigation.

2. Energy - BC Hydro and FortisBC Speakers: Aron Garrecht, K-12 Sector Key Account Manager, BC Hydro Vladimir Kostka - Major Commercial Key Account Manager; FortisBC

Room 2/3

The BC Hydro Fleet Ready Program is a preparatory electric vehicle adoption program designed to help customers assess their current fossil fuel-based fleet and convert it to electric.

The program will produce a fleet suitability assessment, help to create a charging plan, and assist customers determine their electrical infrastructure requirements. The program provides funding for creating the vehicle and charging plan and for infrastructure upgrades.

At FortisBC we're rethinking energy with our customers and industry partners. With a goal of reducing our customers’ emissions by 30 per cent by 2030, we're innovating, diversifying, and collaborating for a more sustainable future for all British Columbians. Over the last few years, FortisBC has been successful in bringing on significant new volumes of carbon-neutral Renewable Natural Gas. FortisBC’s vision for renewable and low carbon gas is to have roughly 75 per cent of its total gas supply be renewable or low carbon by 2050 to meet the province’s 80 per cent GHG reduction target. We look forward to sharing with the education sector our path forward, and the opportunities available for members of this industry to collaborate with us to find solutions to support their sustainability targets and goals.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 1 con’t Salon C

3. Pandemic to Endemic – School and COVID-19 Transition Speaker: Dr. Silvina Mema, Medical Health Officer, Interior Health Authority Chair: Collette O’Reilly, SD#39 Vancouver Transitioning to an endemic state after 2+ years of pandemic isn’t something that happens overnight. Our guest, Dr. Silvina Mema, Medical Health Officer with the Interior Health Authority and K-12 professionals will explore the public health goals for pandemic, how they change in the endemic phase, and what to expect as K-12 and the community as a whole transitions to COVID as an endemic illness.

4:15pm – 5:30pm

Salon C

4. The Future of Ventilation Panel: Ron Macdonald, Director of Facilities, SD#39 Vancouver Chuck Morris, Director of Facilities Services, SD#61 Greater Victoria Dr. Silvina Mema, Medical Health Officer, Interior Health Authority Chair: Collette O’Reilly, SD#39 Vancouver A multi-disciplinary panel to discuss ventilation past, present, and future including environmental engineers, school facilities professionals, a medical health officer with public health, and occupational H&S professionals. Topics range from communicable disease prevention to climate change needs to emerging technologies in ventilation and what the future may bring.

5. Playground Maintenance – Considerations and Playground Trends Speaker: Todd Pope, Swing Time Distributors

Room 2/3

Presentation will focus on an overview of Playground Maintenance, considerations when approaching Playground purchasing, maintenance, design, location, and Trends.

5. A Cleaning & Maintenance Speaker: Representative of the Bunzl Team The presentation will be on Operations related topics, product innovations to support efficient cleaning methods to increase capability and performance tailored to the education setting.

6:30pm – 9:00pm

Exhibitors Hosted Evening Costume: Movie Characters

9:00pm – 12:00am

Hospitality Suite – Everyone Welcome Sponsored by: Canstar Restoration

Ballroom II/Salon A

Kimco Controls Rocky Point Engineering Roofing Contractors Association of BC

Educational Facility Managers Association of B.C. | www.efmabc.com 35

THURSDAY, JUNE 2 7:00am – 8:00am

Buffet Breakfast - Everyone Welcome Sponsored by: FortisBC

Salon B/C

8:00am – 10:00am

EFMA Annual General Meeting and Elections

Salon B/C

8:00am – 10:00am

SSABC Round Table Topics: Perks to Membership Chair: Megan Duke, SD#35 Langley

9:30am – 10:00am

Exhibitors Meeting - Appointing New Exhibitor Representative

Ballroom II/Salon A

10:00am – 1:00pm

Visit Exhibitors Booths / Hosted Luncheon Sponsored by: Caliber Sport

Ballroom II/Salon A

1:00pm – 3:00pm

6. Ministry

Salon B/C

7. WorkSafeBC – Claims Management and Stay/Return to Work Strategies Speakers: Arvin Cajigas, Manager, Employer Return to Work Programs WorkSafeBC Cheryle Walton, Manager Client Services, Adjudication Services Lisa Smith Senior Manager, Special Care Services WorkSafeBC

Room 2/3

Topics:

3:15pm – 5:00pm

Room 1

Turning return-to-work policy and theory into practice.

WorkSafe’s policy regarding an Employers offer of Selective light Employment.

The life of a mental health claim. Supporting workers through the recovery and return to work process and the importance of the employer’s collaboration and engagement.

Room 1

8. Energy Manager Round Table 9. Maintenance Round Table Chairs: Harry Kumar, SD#37 Delta and Megan Macdonald, SD#43 Coquitlam

6:00pm – 12:00am

36

Room 2/3

10. Custodial Round Table Chairs: Cintha Winters, Sd#38 Richmond and Albert Klade, SD#34 Abbotsford

Room 6

11. Health & Safety Round Table

Room 5

Reception, Dinner and Social Entertainment: Rocksteady Sponsored by: BC Hydro

Ops Talk • Spring 2022

Penticton Trade and Convention Centre

FRIDAY, JUNE 3 9:00am – 10:30am

Room 1

12. Confined Spaces in Schools – What does the Future Hold?

Speaker: Geoff Clark, Sr. Occupational Hygienist Confined spaces are not the type of places in which people normally work. The risk of an accident is greater and minor mistakes can have major consequences. Eighteen workers have died in confined spaces in B.C. since 2000 and many others have been injured. There are many hazards that can be encountered including engulfment or immersion, exposure to toxic gases or vapours, oxygen deficiency and flammable atmospheres. Come to this session and learn about the types of confined spaces found in school buildings and the hazards within them. WorkSafeBC is currently reviewing Part 9 of the regulation, which covers confined spaces.

9:00am – 12:00pm

Salon C

13. a) Focus Group

b) BCPSEA c) Ministry Update

2022 EFMABC Conference Partners Program As we finalize our upcoming 2022 Conference

Molly and Mary Ann have been working hard this

Program, we are pleased to once again be

year to put together a program that is sure to

including our Conference Partners Program.

want you to go to work with your partner every

The Conference Partners Program is a parallel and integrated program for all partners of EFMA

year. That is part of the reason that this program has been so successful for such a long time.

members and exhibitor representatives. Since

We particularly want to encourage and welcome

many of our attendees come from all over the

new EFMA members and new exhibitor

province for multiple days of work, this program

representatives to have their partners attend with

encourages your Partner to take a few days

them. It sure makes it easier when you’re meeting

and enjoy the time away with you. This CPP

so many new people.

offers a mixture of personal and educational presentations, artistic activities, and fun/wellness events while their partner works their buns off so to speak. In addition to all the work and learning, there may also be a wine tour somewhere in the cards since you are in the Okanagan after all.

Please check out the program agenda, see the link for registration, and let your partner know that you are so excited to tell him/her…. “Honey, I’m coming to work with you” See you all there!

Educational Facility Managers Association of B.C. | www.efmabc.com 37

2022 CONFERENCE PROGRAM PENTICTON TRADE & CONVENTION CENTRE May 31 - June 3, 2022 PARTNERS PROGRAM Tuesday, May 31 1:00pm – 5:00pm 2:00pm – 7:00pm 7:00pm – 10:00pm 10:00pm – 12:00am

EFMA 24th Annual 9 Hole Golf Tournament Registration Presidents Reception Hospitality Suite – Everyone Welcome

Penticton Golf & Country Club South Lobby North Lobby

Wednesday, June 1 7:30am – 9:00am Registration South Lobby 9:00am – 10:00am Meet & Greet Breakfast Expo Lounge 9:30am – 11:30am Macramé Hanger In this macrame class we are making a super cute mini macrame plant hanger with a faux plant included. This one is done in a "net style" knot and is great for a rear-view car charm or simply for your home.

11:30am – 1:30pm Opening Ceremonies Salon B/C Delegates, Exhibitors and Partners Luncheon Speaker: Wayne Lee, Peak Performance Expert,

Hall of Fame Speaker, Award Winning Entertainer

1 :30pm – 3:30pm

Empower Hour: A Guided Self-Care Routine Foundational class designed to offer you the opportunity to empower your innate wisdom and promote natural healing. We will reconnect to your energies offering balance, clarity, resilience, and joy through Eden Energy Medicine. In this class I will share with your simple techniques and a guided Daily Energy Routine (DER) that can gently and efficiently help shift your energies into a harmonious state. From there you can begin to build a foundation and resilience to support your most vibrant self. I will also introduce you to the 9 energy systems and how they support your wellbeing when in balance.

6:30pm – 9:00pm

Ballroom II/Salon A

Exhibitors Hosted Evening Costume: “Movie Characters” 9:00pm – 12:00am Hospitality Suite – Everyone Welcome

Thursday, June 2 9:30am – 11:30am Aging Wildly in a World that wants you to Calm Down Join Linda Edgecombe and Beth Hanishewski Co-Founders of "The Alive Revolution" for a dive into what midlife does and can look like. As the largest group of people in history have reached midlife, and many of us find ourselves at a turning point. We need to respond with new thinking and new practices that will help us to evolve and forge meaningful paths to what’s next. Midlife needs to be approached with an expansive mindset and an unprecedented opportunity to recalibrate and design the life we want. We will work towards filtering out the chatter of expectations and get down to designing and living the kind of life YOU actually want to live. You will leave this presentation with some action steps to move towards creating the best YOU as you move through midlife. Being FINE will no longer be a part of your vocabulary. Linda and Beth guarantee you may have the best laugh you have had in a long time 11:30am – 4:00pm Followed by Wine Tour where an amazing lunch will be presented.

6:00pm – 12:30am Reception, Dinner and Social

Penticton Trade & Convention Centre

EFMA 2022 Conference Registration Form First Name: ________________________ Surname: _________________________________ Organization: __________________________________________________________________ Address: _____________________________________________________________________ Tel: ______________________ Email: ________________________________ Cheques, Visa, MasterCard or AMEX are accepted, via web site https://efmabc.com/events/ Forward form with payment.

Educational Facility Managers Association of BC (EFMA) PO Box 19032, 1153 – 56th Street, Delta, BC V4L 2P8 email society@telus.net Name on the card: ____________________________________________________________ Credit Card #__ __ __ __ / __ __ __ __ / __ __ __ __ / __ __ __ __ Exp Date ____ / ____ Code ______

Conference Fees Active Members Full Conference Package (includes banquet) $550 _______ Non-Members Full Conference Package (includes banquet) $675 _______ Members One Day Pass (does not include banquet) Wed __ Thurs ___ Fri ____ $250 _______ Non-Members One Day Pass (does not include banquet) Wed __ Thurs __ Fri ___ $375 _______ ProD “A” Monday, May 30 & Tuesday, May 31 Members & Non-Members $400 _______ ProD “B” Monday, May 30 & Tuesday, May 31 Members & Non-Members $400 _______ Partners Program (includes banquet) $150 _______ Additional Banquet Dinner ticket only $ 60 _______ Golf Tournament (handicap ____) Sold Out $ 65 _______ GST 5% _______ Please indicate your selection of sessions and social events: Total $ _________

Tuesday – May 31

President’s Reception

Thursday – June 2

q

Wednesday – June 1

Continental Breakfast Luncheon Exhibitors Hosted Evening Session 1 Session 2 Session 3 Session 4 Session 5 Session 5 A

q q q q q q q q q

Buffet Breakfast Hosted Luncheon Session 6 Session 7 Session 8 Session 9 Session 10 Session 11 Reception, Dinner & Social

Friday – June 3

q q q q q q q q q

Session 12 Session 13

q q

Please inform us of any dietary needs: _________________________________

Cancellation Policy: Cancellation of registration must be received before May 15, 2022, for registration fees to be refunded.

A processing fee of $25.00 will be charged on all refunds.

Educational Facility Managers Association of B.C. | www.efmabc.com 39

2022 CONFERENCE EXHIBITORS A&G Supply

Forbo Flooring Systems

Pinchin

AccessSMT

Fortis BC

Polyflor

Air Filter Sales and Service

Front Row Canada

Quantum Lighting

AirPLUS Industrial Corp.

Garaventa Lift BC

RAB Design

Allegion Canada Inc.

Garland Canada

RCABC

Alpha Vico Inc.

Green Roots Play Equipment Inc.

Apex Building Science

Greenlight Canada

Apollo Sheet Metal

Habitat Systems Inc.

Audio Enhancement

Honeywell / West Excel

BEST Service Pros Ltd.

HSL Automation

BG Distribution

Hy-Line Sales Ltd.

Buckwold Western

IBC Technologies Inc.

Bunzl Cleaning & Hygiene

IDN Canada Ltd.

Stagefab Custom Manufacturing

Caliber Sport Systems Inc.

IKO Industies

Stonhard

Camfil Canada Inc.

Integral Group Consulting

Super Save Group of Companies

Canada Mats

Interface FLOR Canada

Swing Time Distributors Ltd.

Canstar Restorations

Inter-Lite Sales

Swish Maintenance Limited

CDm2 Lightworks

IRC Building Sciences Group/Rimkus

Sybertech Waste Reduction Ltd.

Centaur Products Inc.

Island Cleaning Supplies

TaLedi Enterprise Development Inc.

Centura Tile

Johnson Barrow

Talius

Clean Air Services

Kickstart Technologies

D.G. MacLachlan

KMBR

Dobbin Sales

Legrand

E.B. Horsman & Son

LIGHTVU Inc.

eBASE Software

Lutron Electronics

Edgewood Group

McCrann Cyrus Mfg.

Envirotech Air / Camfil APC

McGregor Hardware Distribution

Equipco Ltd.

Merlin Instrumentation

ERV Parent Company

Milliken & Company

Viessmann Manufacturing

ESC Automation Inc.

Modern PURAIR Inc.

Watertiger

Falcon Engineering

National Air Technologies

West Sun Communications

Filtration Group IAQ (Dafco)

Noratek Solutions Inc.

Western Noise Control

Fink Machine Inc.

Orion Security Systems Ltd.

Wood Wyant Canad Inc.

40

Ops Talk • Spring 2022

Rocky Point Engineering Ltd. Schoolhouse Products Siplast SMcN Consulting Inc. Sound Solutions 2002 Inc. Specialty Surfaces

Tarkett Terracom Systems TORMAX Canada Inc. Trane Canada West Tremco Roofing and Building Maintenance Unitech Construction Management Victaulic

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Don’t forget the importance of measuring airflow and using UVGI for the best building IAQ! Ensuring quality in the products and services we provide is our number one goal.

Merlin Instrumentation is your local rep of EBTRON airflow stations including on-site support.

Visit us at www.merlinhvac.com to learn about Badger and Sage meters for all your liquid, gas, and BTU measurement needs.

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As of February 1, 2019 our billing address and physical address of our Head Office (Including Spears Sales & Service Ltd, Universal Plumbing & Heating Ltd, and Kemp Agencies Ltd.)

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Call George @ 778.867.1658

Phone: 604-513-2445 • Fax: 604-513-2446 Unit #11, 19725 Telegraph Trail, Port Kells/Langley, BC

Monday-Friday 7:30-5:00 www.spearssales.com Educational Facility Managers Association of B.C. | www.efmabc.com 41

Promoting healthy indoor air quality in schools: COVID-19 and beyond The COVID-19 pandemic has taught all of us that air

purifiers can help to clean air in any area where stu-

quality matters, and that indoor spaces need clean

dents, teachers, and staff spend time, including not just

air in order to be safer for the people inside them. As

the classroom but shared spaces such as hallways, caf-

Canadian students are back in school and mask man-

eterias, or gyms.

dates are lifting, the air quality in classrooms and shared

Delos offers advanced air purification solutions that

spaces throughout the school is once again top of mind.

focus on capturing ultrafine particles and delivering

Every school administrator must make the key decision

cleaner air in the breathing zone. Delos Advanced Air

surrounding the right investment to help keep students,

purification standalone units, for example, have patent-

teachers, and staff safe considering not only COVID-19

ed technology that utilizes electrostatic precipitation

but all types of harmful air pollution?

combined with mechanical filtration to capture and de-

The importance of indoor air quality

activate bacteria and viruses, as well as trap particulate

Did you know that the benefits of IAQ extend far beyond COVID-19?

Clean air is essential to our health. Air pollutants can contribute to a range of short-term symptoms, such as eye, nose, and throat irritation and headaches, as well as long-term adverse health outcomes, such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, lung cancer, and respiratory issues. They can even play a role in premature mortality, as air pollution is considered one of the greatest killers of our generation. Children are especially vulnerable to air pollution’s adverse effects due to their developing bodies and behaviours.

Air quality isn’t just important for physical health.

Growing evidence suggests that exposure to air pollution negatively affects children’s neurodevelopment.

Research has also linked better air quality to higher productivity and better performance among students, such as improved concentration and test scores.

Some examples of threats to indoor air quality beyond COVID-19 include the infiltration of outdoor air pollution such as particulate matter, dampness and

matter (PM2.5 and PM10). Delos Advanced Air Purification standalone units are capable of capturing and removing ultrafine particles as small as 0.007 microns at 99.99 per cent aggregate efficiency.

In a recent study conducted at the Well Living Lab – founded as a Delos and Mayo Clinic collaboration – the aerosol particle concentration in a simulated, real-world classroom was five times lower with the use of three Delos Intellipure Compact portable air purifiers. To date, Delos has provided over 250,000 advanced air purification units to schools across North America.

Delos IAQ solutions for schools Improving IAQ throughout the entire school community not only helps to protect students and staff from airborne diseases, such as Covid-19 and the flu, but can also improve student productivity and performance. By providing cleaner air in schools, school administrators have the opportunity to create learning environments where students and teachers alike can thrive, while also providing peace of mind to students, teachers, staff,

mold, and allergens.

and parents.

How to improve indoor air quality

tors that affect student health, wellbeing, and perfor-

For more information on indoor environmental fac-

Air purifiers can help reduce the concentration of

mance, and steps that schools can take to address

pollutants indoors by actively filtering indoor air. Many

these factors, make sure to visit deloscanada.ca or for

schools lack mechanical ventilation systems equipped

more information contact Alex.france@delos.com, tele-

with high-grade mechanical air filters so portable air

phone 437-219-2504. n

42

Ops Talk • Spring 2022

Delos Advanced Air Purification Solutions for Spaces Large & Small CLEANER AIR IN GYMS, CAFETERIAS, HALLWAYS AND BEYOND Purified air is critical to a healthy learning environment. While some schools have implemented air purification solutions in classrooms in response to Covid-19, the opportunity to help boost health and well-being extends far beyond the classroom. Enable peace of mind for your whole school community by investing in Delos Advanced Air Purification.

LEARNING NEVER STOPS We are proud to provide cleaner air for students, educators and staff. Delos has delivered over 250,000+ air purification units to schools across North America.

Backed by science, selected for you.

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Compact Unit A go-to for any classroom covers up to 545 square feet

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deloscanada.ca CONTACT

alex.france@delos.com 437.219.2504

Keeping students safe with resilient earthquake-resistant design Increasingly, schools are being built with engineered wood products, using newly developed systems and innovations, offering durability and resilience in the face of earthquakes, wind, and fire.

Sir Mathew Begbie Elementary School Seismic Replacement during construction | Photo credit: Bright Photography.

Bayview Elementary Seismic Replacement, mass timber installation | Photo: Wade Comer Photography.

Today’s schools are increasingly

Nick Bevilacqua, structural engineer

a Vancouver School Board pilot

being

durable

and principal at Fast + Epp, who

project

standards and can withstand the

has specialized in schools using a

timber into schools. They are also

effects of natural disasters such as

resilient mass timber structure.

part

built

to

more

earthquakes using seismic-resistant

for

of

incorporating

the

B.C.

mass

government’s

“Concrete tends to be challenging

initiative to accelerate seismic safety

Over

to assess after a seismic event.

in schools by means of upgrades

the past number of years, British

You’re looking for cracking and

and replacements of facilities.

Columbia has invested in making

failure in the rebar—things that can

the province’s schools seismically

be tough to spot quickly, especially

Begbie

sound—and many use wood.

when the structure is concealed,” he

Bayview Elementary School, serve

adds.

as great examples of the potential

mass

timber

structures.

“One of the nice things that mass timber construction has going for

Bevilacqua

helped Use

in

the

British

Elementary

School

and

that can be realized with mass timber construction,” says Bevilacqua.

it is that we tend to try to expose

report,

as much of the structure as we

Columbia Schools, that sets out the

can. This makes the post-disaster

considerations and advantages of

mass timber structure makes for an

inspection of these structures a lot

using sustainably harvested timber

efficient floor plan on a compact

more straightforward. Fail points

in school design.

site—the exterior and structural walls,

tend to be at the metal connections

Wood

author

“These two schools, Sir Mathew

Two new schools in the Lower

Bayview

Elementary

School’s

floors, and roof use cross-laminated

and this is the type of thing that

Mainland—Bayview

Elementary

timber (CLT) panels complemented

you could possibly retrofit a little

School and Sir Mathew Begbie

by glulam columns and beams. Left

easier than other structures,” says

Elementary School — are part of

exposed, the wood adds warmth

44

Ops Talk • Spring 2022

BC’s Mass Timber Schools Top of the class Southern Okanagan Secondary School | photo credit: Ed White Photograhics, HDR & KMBR Architecture

LEARN MORE

info.naturallywood.com/schools

For the better part of a decade, BC has been experimenting with more innovative design when it comes to schools. Today, the province is home to a growing number of schools that are shaking off convention in favour of more flexible and versatile architecture. Designs that might have once seemed ahead of their time, even quirky, are proving functional and timely—and showing what is possible here in BC and beyond.

“ The timber framing systems used in these buildings provide warm, inviting spaces for the school community as well as help the school board meet their sustainability objectives.”

the gymnasium and multipurpose room, a composite double-T design combines CLT with glulam beams to form 16-metre-long spanning panels.

and character to interior spaces. To foster collaborative learning spaces, classroom volumes are staggered, and the corridor widened—allowing for break-out rooms, seating, hangout space, and a larger learning

commons. The library opens to the corridor for added flexible space and informal learning. The CLT system serves double duty as both gravity and shear walls, to resist the high seismic forces of the region. For

Not far from Bayview Elementary is Sir Mathew Begbie Elementary School, a new school which replaces an original structure on the site built in 1922. It’s long-spanning mass timber forms the school’s quadrant

configuration,

accommodating

Welcoming students back to school BEGINS WITH CREATING HEALTHIER LEARNING ENVIRONMENTS.

while

well-designed

wayfinding through the building with north/south and east/west corridors. Again, CLT serves as both gravity and shear walls, to resist the

We can help with affordable, sustainable energy-efficient solutions.

high seismic forces of the region.

Non-structural partitions within the interior accommodate mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems.

Large door openings in the CLT walls connect each classroom with the common spaces of each pod.

The CLT-built structure delivers a

cantilevered

multipurpose

design

roof,

a

for

the

composite

double-T design combining CLT

778-760-0927 | westexcel.ca | sales@westexcel.ca

with

glulam

spanning

beams

panels.

for

long-

The

system

accommodates open spaces with

For over 50 years

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a shallow structural depth. For the large gymnasium, long glulam beams are moment connected to create a striking vaulted roof.

“In

addition

to

meeting

the

demands of the seismic mitigation program,

the

timber

framing

systems used in these buildings provide warm, inviting spaces for the school community as well as help the school board meet their sustainability

objectives,”

says

Bevilacqua.

To read the Wood Use in British Columbia Schools report and to

204.757.4534 www.royalstewart.com 46

Ops Talk • Spring 2022

see schools in B.C. using wood construction

and

naturallywood.com. n

design,

visit

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Educational Facility Managers Association of B.C. | www.efmabc.com 47

DHP™ technology:

A proven way to make indoor air safe With staff and students back in

to Dry Hydrogen Peroxide or DHP™.

non-ozone generating, and feature

schools, it is imperative to keep

DHP™ molecules travel throughout

low-energy consumption. Units that

your classrooms safe. Finding an air

an

actively

employ DHP™ technology, such as

cleaning system can be a challenge:

reduce levels of certain viruses,

the free-standing Synexis Sphere,

you need to understand how they

bacteria, mold, odors, and many

offer this innovative technology

clean, if they are safe for occupants,

insects.

to continuously address certain

enclosed

space

to

harmful pathogens in air and on

and if they are sustainable. This is

Created to fight airborne and on-

where DHP™ technology comes in.

surface microbes 24/7, air cleaning

surfaces.

DHP™ technology uses a process by

units that use DHP™ technology

which naturally occurring oxygen

are not only safe, but sustainable,

and humidity in the air is converted

as

How DHP can work for your classroom

they

are

UL867-certified

DHP™ is the true gas form of hydrogen

peroxide,

and

safe

for occupants of any age. This technology uses ambient oxygen and humidity naturally present in every indoor environment. No need to budget for extensive retrofit work or downtime: DHP™ units are

Northern Roof-Life Specialists

easy to install, and mount either

Consulting • Condition Reports • Thermography Specifications and Tendering Quality Control Inspections

into an existing HVAC system, or as stand-alone ‘plug and play’ devices.

They require only minimal and easy maintenance through the year to ensure classrooms are a safe and disruption-free place to learn.

Dawson Creek, BC

Terrace, BC

Grande Prairie, AB

250-782-6878

250-641-4204

780-538-4190

Dick Van Genne RRO

Mike Van Genne

Mel Hoffart RRO

See it in action Trane

recently

worked

with

San Felipe Del Rio Consolidated Independent School District in Texas to help bring DHP™ technology

ACCEPTED INSPECTION FIRM

48

Email: mel@topsideconsulting.ca

to their schools. Portable Synexis

RCABC and ARCA Accepted Inspectors

installed in every classroom in

Ops Talk • Spring 2022

BioDefense DHP™ Systems were the district as part of their Safety

Mitigation Plan to help reduce the presence of SARS-CoV-2 (the virus that causes COVID-19).

In the first eight weeks of the school year, prior to the Synexis installation,

the

district

logged

nearly 300 confirmed COVID-19

Make Your School Safer With

cases, averaging 7.2 cases per school day. After the installation

Easy to install and maintain, Synexis uses

of the Synexis Spheres, the district reported

that

the

number

of

DHP™ technology

cases decreased to less than one case on average per school day

to fight airborne and on-surface viruses and bacteria.

through the remainder of 2021.

School district case rates, which previously accounted for more than 14 per cent of total county COVID cases,

were

down

significantly

below community case rates and accounted for less than 7 per cent

Coronavirus (MS2 Surrogate): >95% in-air reduction after 60 minutes Influenza Type A: 99.8% reduction after 60 minutes Norovirus: 99.5% reduction after 2 hours

of county COVID cases, prior to the December break.

The results are clear: DHP is top of the class in air cleaning systems.

If you are searching for a proven way to improve your indoor air quality to keep your staff and students

safe,

consider

DHP™

technology for your facilities.

For more information, contact: Jhanine Camp Indoor Air Quality Specialist Trane Canada West jhanine.camp@trane.com 604-473-5676 n

The Blade Installs within your HVAC system

The Sphere Stand alone in-room solution

The Sentry Stand alone in-room solution

Learn how Synexis makes spaces safe >

trane.com/synexis | 604-473-5676 Educational Facility Managers Association of B.C. | www.efmabc.com 49

Preparing to protect what matters most

Preparing and planning for emergencies can be daunt-

gencies. We have trained individuals to develop skills

ing. Writing a plan is only the start point. Good prepa-

and exercised teams of all sizes to practice and learn

ration involves training for those who execute the plan,

together. Ultimately, our greatest strength is to listen

drills, exercises, learning from all of that (and from ac-

closely to our clients and develop tailored solutions for

tual emergencies), and then ongoing plan updates. All

them: no two schools or school districts are alike, but

of these activities can add significant responsibilities

we bring our experience to bear on your particular cir-

onto individuals whose essential purpose is to educate

cumstances.

our youth. We aim to help you find the “Goldilocks Zone” where you do not do so much preparation that the delivery of education suffers but you do prepare enough to feel capable of managing through an emergency.

The emergency planning cycle

Supporting you as a leader in emergency management In many cases, those tasked with emergency management within school districts have other primary responsibilities. We have yet to meet anyone who is not interested in the safety of students, staff, or others

The BC Ministry of Education’s Emergency Manage-

under your care. Often, the biggest hurdles facing you

ment Planning Guide for Schools, Districts and Au-

are time, resources, or experience. The ongoing need

thorities (2015) outlines the five elements of the emer-

to perform regular duties limits how far you can take

gency planning cycle: planning, organizing and equip-

your emergency program. This is where Ally can help.

ping, training, drills, and debriefing and revising the

Whether you are a school district, a 1,000+ student

plan. The cycle offers a proven way forward through

school, or a smaller education facility, Ally has the

the wilderness of emergency preparedness and is an

experience and flexibility to assist where you need it

approach shared across industries and government.

most. We can undertake the heavy lifting, addressing

The team at Ally Emergency Management Inc. col-

each element of the emergency planning cycle. If most

lectively has over 100 years of emergency manage-

of the heavy lifting is already done, we can help to en-

ment experience. We have done everything in the

hance your capabilities and fill in any gaps.

emergency planning cycle. We have helped to identify

Imagine having an ally to help you build a robust

risks and built plans to address them. We have advised

emergency management program – one that is tai-

on how to organize and equip to meet potential emer-

lored to your circumstances, one that is practiced, and

50

Ops Talk • Spring 2022

Whether you are a school district, a 1,000+ student school, or a smaller education facility, Ally has the experience and flexibility to assist where you need it most. We can undertake the heavy lifting, addressing each element of the emergency planning cycle. one that everyone feels confident in. When you work with the Ally team, this can be more than a vision, it can be the reality. Let Ally support you in your role as a leader in emergency management. It’s what we do, and it’s what we’re passionate about.

Blue Call Out Box (using the premise of the emergency planning cycle as the central EM theme) Ally Emergency Management Inc. offers a full suite of emergency management services: • Emergency planning • Advice for emergency programs

Some of our Allies Ally has assisted a broad spectrum of clients ranging from large, highly complex organizations (e.g.: Vancouver International Airport, the University of British Columbia, Delta School District) through to smaller operations (e.g.: St George’s School, Collingwood School, Rocky Mountaineer). Our experience can help you to ensure that what matters most is protected when an emergency strikes. Reach out so we can explore ways

• Personnel training • Drill and exercise planning and execution • Post-exercise and after-action reviews • Crisis communications We have supported dozens of organizations across British Columbia. Reach out to discover ways we can help you be as prepared as possible when the moment comes. n

that you can gain an ally.

When preparing to protect what matters most, it’s good to have an Ally.

www.yourally.ca For further information email info@yourally.ca Educational Facility Managers Association of B.C. | www.efmabc.com 51

What are ETHICS? • A set of moral principles: theory of moral values • Principles of conduct governing an individual or a group • Professional ethics in plural form: the discipline dealing with what is good and bad and with moral duty and obligation.

(Merriam-Webster) EDITED BY CHUCK MORRIS Questions to guide you There is no ready-made way to deal with ethical challenges. They require us to respond to specific circumstances and relationships as well as the various ethical considerations – purpose, values, and principles – at play.

Still, there are a few questions you can ask that can help crystalize the ethical issues for you.

1. W ould I be happy for this decision to be headlining the news tomorrow?

What are ethics?

human rights, and professional con-

At its simplest, ethics is a system of moral principles. They affect how people make decisions and lead their lives. Ethics are concerned with what is good for individuals and society and is also described as moral philosophy. The term is derived from the Greek word ethos which can mean custom, habit, character, or disposition.

duct.

Ethics covers the following dilemmas: • How to live a good life • Our rights and responsibilities • The language of right and wrong • Moral decisions - what is good and bad?

Our concepts of ethics have been derived from religions, philosophies, and cultures, and they infuse debates on topics such as abortion, 52

Ops Talk • Spring 2022

Approach to ethics Philosophers nowadays tend to divide ethical theories into three areas: metaethics, normative ethics, and applied ethics.

• Meta-ethics deals with the nature of moral judgement. It looks at the origins and meaning of ethical principles.

• Normative ethics is concerned with the content of moral judgements and the criteria for what is right or wrong.

• Applied ethics looks at controversial topics like war, animal rights, and capital punishment.

(Credit: BBC)

This is known as the Sunlight Test.

Imagine if your decision – and the reasons you made it – were public knowledge. What if the people you most admire knew what you’d done and why? Do you think you’d be able to defend yourself? Would other people agree, or at least understand, why you did what you did?

Note – it’s the ‘don’t be ashamed’ test not the ‘don’t get caught’ test.

2. Is there an ethical nonnegotiable at play?

Is there a rule that any reasonable person should apply to this situation regardless of the consequences? Some rules are unbreakable, even when the stakes are high.

For instance, we should never act in ways that undermine the equality and dignity of all people – ourselves included. The rules are often asso-

ciated with duties – some of which we create ourselves, like when we make a promise.

3. W ill my action make the world a better place?

We often think about ethics in terms of consequences. ‘The greatest good for the greatest number’ is a maxim many people recognize and accept. Consequences are an important part of ethical decisions, but are they everything?

We should be aware of what we’re sacrificing when trying to bring about good consequences.

Are we violating an important principle? Are we compromising our own values? If so, have we considered these facts when balancing harms and benefits?

4. W hat would happen if everybody did this?

I developing a habit of laziness that may affect my future work?

6. Is this consistent with my values and principles?

Plenty of people and organizations are happy to tell you what they stand for – but do they walk the talk? Are my actions reflecting my ethical beliefs? Most ethical systems have no time for hypocrisy.

Answering these questions

doesn’t guarantee everyone will accept our decision. Moral disagreement is extremely common. But even the answer to our question doesn’t achieve universal approval, the way in which we reach those answers matters. Ethics allows us to explore these questions in a way that is sincere, rational, competent, and honest.

(The Ethics Centre-Australia) n

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Would you be happy if your reason for action was used by everyone in the same circumstance? If not, then what makes you so special? Most ethical frameworks suggest the right decision for one person should be right for everybody in the same position. A lot of unethical behavior arises from people making special exceptions for themselves.

This test helps us be sure we’re willing to hold ourselves to the same standards we hold others to.

5. W hat will this do to my character or the character of my organization?

Many people believe that our decisions shape our character and vice versa. That is, we can’t lie and cheat without becoming a fraudulent liar. For instance, if we are liars then we’ll tend to lie more often.

Think about whether your action is establishing a habit either for you or your organization. Is it a good habit (virtue) or a bad one (vice)? If I cut corners on a work job today, am

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Educational Facility Managers Association of B.C. | www.efmabc.com 53

The benefits of an inspection program for school exteriors Responsibilities & Preventative Maintenance There are many areas on the outside of schools that require inspections. The inspection procedures and recommended frequencies are usually based on national and provincial codes, regulations and standards, preventative maintenance, and best loss prevention practices.

What Applies for Schools – Exterior Inspections 1. Safety Inspections – playground and sports fields, exterior light-

Preventive Maintenance – Predicting a Problem before it happens

a Digital Inspection Program can help by providing you with the following information:

Whenever there are cutbacks, preventive

maintenance

usually

takes a hit. The need to provide a regular digitally documented preventive inspection program cannot be over stated. How do we know how long our equipment will operate? What condition is the equipment in? What maintenance and testing should be provided if we

ing, exterior exits, entrance and

don’t develop a digitally docu-

exiting areas, fire protection sys-

mented inspection program?

tems, etc.

• Reduce recurring problems.

• Prevent the use of unsafe assets, thus reducing employee and student injuries.

• Help set up ideal maintenance schedules.

• Maximize scheduling productivity.

• Budget for repairs and updates.

Inspection requirements should encompass A regular (monthly) inspection

With all the time and supports

2. Preventive Maintenance Inspec-

program, preferably digital, should

required to operate a safe building

tions – walkway, sidewalk, stairs,

be developed and put into place

and exterior facility in schools, it is

ramps, steps & handrail condi-

which covers the following areas

difficult at times to meet these in-

tion, roof drains, roof and exte-

as a minimum:

spections frequencies even though

a) All means of egress, exterior exit

rior wall condition, parking lots,

they are required by various na-

stairs, walkways, ramps, stairs,

etc.

tional or provincial codes, regula-

steps, handrails pathways, and

3. Exterior Safety – walkway areas, steps and stairs, parking lots, roof access, etc.

tions, or standards.

fire exits.

The inspection requirements for

b) All parking lot areas, exterior

schools can be fairly extensive but

lighting, curb stops, entrance &

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54

Ops Talk • Spring 2022

exit signage, and parking lot lineage. c) Playgrounds, sports fields, basketball hoops, and children’s play spaces and areas. d) Exterior sprinkler systems, drains, FD connections, signage, and fire hydrant condition.

Conclusion

With all the time and supports required to operate a safe building and exterior facility in schools, it is difficult at times to meet these inspections frequencies even though they are required by various national or provincial codes, regulations, or standards.

• Conduct a risk analysis or needs assessment. This will help you determine your inspection needs.

• Identify all areas to be inspected.

Makes it easier to develop specific ways of developing an inspection program that will meet the requirements of the various codes, regulation, and standards.

• Monitor your progress, make changes if needed.

• Stay informed.

• Talk to risk management professionals, people in your industry, staff, and various other organizations.

For additional information, contact: Alan Kavanaugh, CRM, CCPI Director of Loss Control & Risk Management, Noratek Solutions Inc. akavanaugh@noratek.com T: 1-866-264-2236 C: 250-961-8186 P: 250-564-2236 www.cityinspectionsoftware.com Alan has provided Loss Control Services to school districts, municipalities, industry, and government operations for over 35 years.

He has developed a set of training programs, workshops, and audits to help all organizations accumulate and prioritize information and develop short- and long-term compliance plans. Alan is based out of Prince George, B.C. but provides services throughout Western Canada. n Educational Facility Managers Association of B.C. | www.efmabc.com 55

From the floor up

Create inspiring learning environments and enhance

creating unhealthy indoor air quality, as well as on-

every corner of your building. Withstand years of

going, costly maintenance. Don’t let moisture get

heavy foot traffic and improve every space within

in the way of a perfect install. Milliken offers cost

your school from lobbies to libraries. At Milliken, we

effective, fully warrantied solutions that can virtu-

provide comprehensive flooring solutions consisting

ally eliminate the kind of moisture problems that

of modular carpet, LVT, and entrance flooring for K-12,

plague thousands of schools across the country.

higher education, and library spaces.

Create healthy environments for learning You may be surprised at the impact beautiful, highquality flooring can have on a school. Noise reduc-

• Installation Advantages Milliken modular carpet tile allows you to install

faster and more reliably. With our PVC-free, nonreactive WellBAC™ cushion backing, little to no floor prep is required. The thickness of our cushion back-

tion, improved cleanliness and air quality, moisture

ing will result in virtually no telegraphing, and you

control, and positive psychological benefits can all

don’t have to worry about a chemical reaction with

be achieved with certain flooring solutions. Milliken’s

the old adhesive, and it is all fully warrantied!

flooring solutions can dramatically impact your school environment including: • Acoustic performance

• Colour and Branding Show your school spirit! The range of colours offered with Milliken’s technology is unmatched.

Noise can have an adverse effect on productivity

Easily customize your floor to match your school

and concentration. This is especially true in educa-

colours or print your logo or mascot!

tional environments. Improving the interior acoustics of a school can reduce overall stress while making it easier for students to concentrate. Whether you’re specifying carpet or LVT, Milliken flooring is the quietest in the industry.

• Moisture Mitigation Foundation moisture promotes mold and mildew, 56

Ops Talk • Spring 2022

• Comfort Standing for hours every day can cause extreme fatigue for faculty and staff. That’s why we use WellBAC® cushion backing on all of our carpet tile products, as standard. Our backing can also improve carpet appearance retention by absorbing the impact of foot traffic, rather than the carpet fibres. Our

LVT products also provide cushion while reducing

partner with us to lower your school’s carbon foot-

in-room and through-floor noise.

print.

Harness the power of great floor design and build a

• Sustainability We are always working on ways to reduce unnecessary materials in our products. We use recycled materials, source raw materials locally when possible, and have established manufacturing facilities closer to customers around the world to decrease shipping distances – plus, our flooring products are carbon neutral everywhere in the world. We invite you to

better foundation for learning with fun and functional flooring to transform your school. Milliken offers virtually unlimited design options for whatever you’re trying to achieve.

Mike Pajic, Account Manager – Vancouver mike.pajic@milliken.com 604-808-6614 n

CREATE BETTER LEARNING ENVIRONMENTS

Educational Facility Managers Association of B.C. | www.efmabc.com 57

THOUGHTS ON

Why?

BY CHUCK MORRIS

Simon Sinek, a leadership guru,

in your office deal with low morale

hand. Sometimes it’s not easy to

professor,

once

on a regular basis? Why? Do you

do but the concept is important!

said, “It’s what you can’t see that

understand the atmosphere within

Ask why and source the data on

matters.” Think about that for a

the departments you manage? If

how you do things. Research why

minute. It’s what you can’t see

you do not, I suggest this may be

you do the things you do and place

that matters. That brief comment

an important factor that is being

the data where you can see it,

can (and should) open dozens of

overlooked.

respond to it, grow with it. Are you

and

author,

thoughts in your mind! Look at the

I have been doing this type of

gaining better intelligence so you

operation that you oversee. Ask

work for a very long time and being

can better understand how you

the question of yourself, WHY?

human, I have noted awkwardness,

carry out the work and succeed at

Why are you doing something

silence, non-committal responses,

the same time? Are you allowing

the way you do it? What are you

rudeness, and a few other things. It

others to succeed as well? Asking

missing? Be brave here! We are all

taught me to look inward. It taught

human and once in a while you will

me to begin asking myself why.

miss something.

What have I been missing?

To

understand

of

I learned I needed to ask ‘WHY’

how you manage, is as important

and if need be, change how I did

as

nuances

some of the things I had been

of your leadership. Are you an

doing. So, the imperative would be

autocratic manager of people?

to ask questions and involve staff.

Because of your actions do you

Give them some comfort while

deal with low morale or have staff

gaining adherence to the job at

understanding

the

WHY

the

that question will reveal a lot about you, and about how you deal with difficulties.

Sometimes it may be best to sit back and think of your growth and your history while yo u worked to become a leader. Go over any number of stories that affected you as a child. How did these affect you as you developed into a manager and leader? Asking WHY when contemplating that question will give you a trove of answers. Whatever you have for that historic story or event does indeed influence you as you grow.

It will also influence those who report to you!

Give

some

thought

to

the

question of why. This is a great exercise

and

can

help

you

strategize as you develop your sense around why, and what it could do for developing your style and legacy.

‘Why‘ questions are the types of questions that force one to step back and think more analytically. ­— Chris Van Natto of Mentor Works n

58

Ops Talk • Spring 2022

Embracing creativity to find solutions

BY TRAVIS ELWOOD Stewart, B.C. is a remote mining and port community across from Alaska’s Misty Fiords National Park and at the end of the Portland Canal. It is a unique town that shares a border with the United States community of Hider, Alaska. The population of Stewart peaked in the thousands prior to World War I but declined with the mining and forest industry changes to now have a population of approximately 500 people.

The Bear Valley School operates to provide education to the community for students in kindergarten to grade 12. The hard work and devotion of many have kept the school and community thriving de-

spite challenging times.

One issue came from some unhealthy spruce trees that were affecting the sidewalks and foundation of the school building. The school community had a connection to the trees but understood the risk and damage their roots were causing as well as the obvious signs of disease. The sudden loss of the trees at the front entrance to the school, climbed by generations of students, left many concerned about what the school would be without them. After shared brainstorming efforts between school personnel and district maintenance staff, a local artist, Roderick Brown (www.cohowood.com), was hired

to turn the tree stumps into an art installation that would add to the character of the Bear Valley School.

The outcome is a great example of the balance between building maintenance needs and embracing an opportunity to improve using creativity.

One tree was lost but a family of interactive bears were found. n

Maddaugh Elementary School – Surrey, BC Photo: Upper Left Photography

more than just buildings

architecture planning interior design thinkspace.ca

Educational Facility Managers Association of B.C. | www.efmabc.com 59

QUALITY, BUILT IN. You’re in safe hands with ESC and our BC Partners You can be safe in the knowledge that your building automation system is being taken care of by ESC Automation experts. We deliver a comprehensive and meticulous service, from installation to maintenance, ensuring you get a solution that’s right for your building. Our systems help you manage operating costs effectively by identifying inefficiencies and acting upon them (even remotely) to keep your buildings running smoothly and reduce your energy costs.

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