Facility Perspectives March–May 2015 by Executive Media

P E O P L E / / S PAC E S / / P R O D U CT I V I T Y

Facility Perspectives

>> Vol 9 no 1

MARCH 2015â&#x20AC;&#x201C;MAY 2015

t h e l e a d i n g r e s o u r c e f o r fac i l i t i e s m a n a g e m e n t i n Au st r a l a s i a

ideaction.2015 is a game-changer

Green still in vogue

Harmony in design the Nan Tien Institute

Official magazine of the Facility Management Association of Australia Print Post Approved 100019189 $9.95 inc GST

CEO MESSAGE |

MESSAGE FROM THE CEO

elcome to 2015. It has already been a whirlwind year, with much happening in the facilities management industry. The government is currently undertaking significant work that affects the roles of facilities management professionals. With the review of the Commercial Building Disclosure program, the association has had the opportunity to provide the government with our most recently endorsed policy position, outlining the preferred direction of this important regulatory program. The Facility Management Association of Australia (FMA) has been working with members to articulate the need for a reduction in the threshold of building size that is required to report under this program. This could be achieved effectively and without increasing the regulatory burden if the ‘tenancy lighting assessment’ requirement was removed. Given the available data, increasing the level of building (both size and type) required to report under the program would continue to provide a net positive effect within the economy. In addition, the Association is working closely with the NABERS team as a member of the stakeholder advisory group to provide input into the current review of NABERS governance arrangements. The FMA professional development program is now in full swing, with R22 sessions being held in all cities over the coming three months. These sessions are especially important to ensure that facilities management professionals are clear about their obligations during the phase-out of R22. The sessions held to date have provided very positive feedback. Education and professional development are areas of growth for FMA in 2015, with a focus on addressing areas of skills development that

Nicholas Burt

have been identified by the industry as being important moving forward. From the Association perspective, it has already been, and is shaping up to be, a very big year. There are plans for a whole range of projects that will come to their conclusion and provide significant benefits to members. The current projects include a new database and website – providing a much higher level of member experience; this is a database that supports members through not only managing their memberships, but also through tracking their involvement with the Association (specifically for continuing professional development (CPD) point evidence). With ideaction.2015 all but on our doorstep, I hope you are all enthusiastic about the prospect of heading to South Australia and being part of the what is shaping up to be a very strong and focused program for this year’s National Conference. The theme, ‘Changing the Game’, has been a catalyst for some interesting papers and keynotes. This year, additional features will be included, ensuring that it better meets the needs of members and the industry as a whole. For the first time, the Association will provide support to new attendees, to ensure that they are able to gain maximum benefit from the program, and to branch committee members, with special sessions designed around specific areas to enhance participation. And although the FM Industry Awards for Excellence are still some time off, the call for nominations is imminent, giving individuals and organisations the opportunity to think about the categories, and whether their professional practice should be recognised for its drive for excellence in the industry. FMA is coming to the end of its current strategic plan – a plan that was most recently

refined in 2013. What better time than now, as a number of key projects are coming to their conclusion, to reflect on the successes of the past strategy, and to understand the direction that members believe should drive the organisation as we move toward 2020? In the near future, FMA will be launching a member feedback process to ensure that the thoughts of members are included in the development of the strategic plan. In order for the Association to remain relevant, there is a need to understand where we want to be in three to five years, what we have done well, and where we could improve. The portfolio groups continue their work into the year, and of particular note is the recent release of the Good Practice Guide for Building Information. This document has been facilitated through the knowledge portfolio group, and provides an outline of building information, information types and some of the metrics. It will provide a thorough understanding of the topic to anyone using building information, and it makes a valuable addition to the Good Practice Guides series. During late February, the Association held its second Industry Leaders Forum for the service providers within the industry. Discussing issues related to skills development and the value of productivity, the session is now seen as a key opportunity for those providing facilities management services to be able to articulate issues that affect the industry as a whole, and to discuss opportunities to work with the Association to address these issues. I look forward to seeing you at ideaction.2015. Nicholas Burt Chief Executive Officer, FMA

FACILITY PERSPECTIVES | VOLUME 9 NUMBER 1

| CONTENTS

Level 6, 313 La Trobe Street Melbourne VIC 3000 Tel: (03) 8641 6666 | Fax: (03) 8641 6600 Email: info@fma.com.au Web: www.fma.com.au

CONTENTS CEO Message

Automated doors

Message from CEO Nicholas Burt

Industry update

4 8

Published by

10 ABN 30 007 224 204

430 William Street Melbourne VIC 3000 Tel: (03) 9274 4200 Fax: (03) 9329 5295 Email: media@executivemedia.com.au Web: www.executivemedia.com.au Offices also in Adelaide, Brisbane & Sydney Editor: Gemma Peckham Editorial enquiries: Tel: (03) 9274 4200 Email: gemma.peckham@executivemedia.com.au Advertising enquiries: Tel: (03) 9274 4200 Email: media@executivemedia.com.au Design: Alma McHugh Editorial contributors: Norman Disney & Young, Emma Berthold, Gemma Peckham, Romilly Madew, Kane Grose, Phil Kernick, Joanna Burke, Stephen Whyte, Carl Sachs.

Industry news ideaction.2015 will be changing the game in Adelaide Search on for Australia’s best emerging tech companies FMA Portfolio Groups: providing valuable member connection

An automatic welcome to your facility

Health care

Australia’s first digital hospital

Information technology

The future of FM software

Security

Green buildings – retrofitting

Letting the light in on Adelaide Oval

Time to turn up the heat on SCADA vendors Looking at the bigger picture – CCTV solutions for large facilities

Green buildings

Flooring

Energy management systems – why you need them and how to make them work Why we need greener classrooms Trends in green building Information matters

22 28 32

Green buildings – HVAC

Cover image: Nan Tien Institute, Wollongong

Thermal comfort, HVAC, sustainability and human intervention

Stock images sourced from: iStock, ThinkStock and Getty Images.

Case study

Don’t slip up on safety

Maintenance + essential services

66 70

74 77

Have germs; will travel When and how should safety anchors and ladders be inspected? Don’t let your walls hem you in Paint that works with you

Harmony, tranquillity and serenity in learning

The editor, publisher, printer and their staff and agents are not responsible for the accuracy or correctness of the text of contributions contained in this publication, or for the consequences of any use made of the products and information referred to in this publication. The editor, publisher, printer and their staff and agents expressly disclaim all liability of whatsoever nature for any consequences arising from any errors or omissions contained within this publication, whether caused to a purchaser of this publication or otherwise. The views expressed in the articles and other material published herein do not necessarily reflect the views of the editor and publisher or their staff or agents. The responsibility for the accuracy of information is that of the individual contributors, and neither the publisher nor editors can accept responsibility for the accuracy of information that is supplied by others. It is impossible for the publisher and editors to ensure that the advertisements and other material herein comply with the Competition and Consumer Act 2010 (Cth). Readers should make their own inquiries in making any decisions, and, where necessary, seek professional advice. © 2015 Executive Media Pty Ltd. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is strictly prohibited.

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| INDUSTRY UPDATE

INDUSTRY NEWS National Energy Efficient Building Project (NEEBP) commences Phase 2 The National Energy Efficient Building Project (NEEBP) is working to improve energy efficiency in new buildings, renovations and additions. Commencing in late 2013, Phase 1 sought to identify and review key weaknesses or points of non-compliance with the energy efficiency requirements in the National Construction Code. Based on the findings of Phase 1, Phase 2 has commenced, focusing on improving the energy efficiency of residential buildings during construction and renovation. This will include Australiawide pilots, consulting with building regulators and strengthening consumer awareness.

For more on the NEEBP, please visit www.sa.gov.au.

Australian National Registry of Emissions Units Act 2011, Clean Energy Regulator Act 2011, and the National Greenhouse Energy and Reporting Act 2007.

For more information, visit www.environment.gov.au/climatechange/emissions-reduction-fund/legislation.

Calculating Cool online HVAC tool launched Following the official launch of the Calculating Cool online benchmarking tool, it is now possible for building owners and operators, HVAC industry professionals, facilities managers and other stakeholders to measure the efficiency of a variety of HVAC systems. A range of industry bodies – AIRAH, the PCA, FMA, and AMCA – worked with government to progress the Calculating Cool project. Designed to sit alongside the Green Star and NABERS ratings tools, Calculating Cool is easy to apply. The project forms part of the Council of Australian Government’s (COAG) HVAC HESS strategy, comprising 20 complementary measures expected to save industry about $320 million a year in energy costs.

For more information, visit www.calculatingcool.com.au.

David Eynon leaves AMCA

Amendment Bill passed to incorporate Emissions Reduction Fund On 24 November 2014, the Carbon Farming Initiative Amendment Bill 2014 passed both houses. The amendment seeks to establish the Emissions Reduction Fund by: 33 providing the Clean Energy Regulator powers to conduct auctions and enter into contracts to purchase emissions reductions 33 enabling a broader range of emissions reduction projects to be approved 33 amending the project eligibility criteria and processes for approving projects and crediting carbon credit units. The bill also seeks to make consequential amendments to the

FACILITY PERSPECTIVES | VOLUME 9 NUMBER 1

David Eynon has announced his departure from the Air Conditioning and Mechanical Contractors’ Association of Australia (AMCA). Mr Eynon has provided AMCA with 20 years of dedicated service as Executive Director of both AMCA Victoria and National Director of AMCA Australia. Replacing David is Christopher Rankin, who has been the Executive Director for AMCA South Australia for the past eight years. FMA wishes David all the very best, and welcomes Christopher to his new role.

TPG Capital-led consortium closes acquisition of Cassidy Turley In January, DTZ announced that they and Cassidy Turley are now operating as a single global firm following the completion of the acquisition of Cassidy Turley by the private equity investment consortium backed by TPG Capital. DTZ now provides clients with additional integrated capabilities across more than 30 major United States markets in addition to its already established capabilities throughout Europe and Asia. The unified company represents $2.9 billion in annual revenues and

INDUSTRY UPDATE |

more than 28,000 employees, and now manages 3.3 billion square feet globally on behalf of institutional, government, corporate and private clients.

Programmed FM partners with FMA again to identify industry trends and insights In February, the FMA, in partnership with Programmed FM and with the support of FMANZ, launched the third industry census survey across Australia and New Zealand. The census seeks to explore a number of critical areas relating to the current and future state of facilities management in Australia and New Zealand. The census survey is designed to gauge the perceptions of all participants engaged in facilities management activities, including the practitioners who deliver services, the purchasers who procure services, and the suppliers who support the industry. If you are a procurer, practitioner or supplier, please visit the FMA website and click on the relevant link to fill out the survey.

IFMA announces ANSI accreditation of two credentials for facilities management professionals The International Facility Management Association (IFMA) recently announced that it has been recognised as an ANSI Accredited Program Certificate Issuer, Accreditation Number 1057, for its Facility Management Professional (FMP®) and Sustainability Facility Professional (SFP®) certificate programs. ANSI, which oversees thousands of standards and guidelines that directly impact businesses in a range of sectors, recognised these ‘world-class gold standard’ credentials with seven commendations.

To find out more, visit IFMA’s credential page online at www.ifma.org/professional-development/credentials.

If you’re interested in last year’s trends and insights, email policy@fma.com.au.

Five D Holdings Pty Ltd wins 2014 Growth Company of the Year Award After winning FM Service Provider of the Year at the FM Industry Awards, Five D Holdings Pty Ltd has gone on to win the 2014 Growth Company of the Year Award. Successfully launched in 2012, the Australian Growth Company Awards celebrate excellence in the mid-market. They recognise companies that demonstrate high rates of growth, as well as innovation, integrity, contribution to community and sustainable growth.

For more information, visit www.sparke.com.au/our-firm/ initiatives/australian-growth-company-awards.

The recovery in office leasing markets gathers momentum JLL Research has released statistics on national office markets for the fourth quarter of 2014. The figures recorded positive net absorption of 16,200 square metres over the quarter, which is the first time net absorption has been recorded in two consecutive quarters since the fourth quarter of 2011. Nevertheless, the national CBD office market vacancy rate was unchanged at 12.5 per cent. Comparing vacancy rates among Australia’s capital cities, the Sydney CBD was the only CBD office market to record a single-digit vacancy rate at 9.5 per cent for the fourth quarter. In Brisbane, a small contraction of net absorption was observed (-2100 square metres), with the vacancy rate at 16.8 per cent. Canberra recorded the largest negative net absorption at -5200 square metres.

For more information, visit www.jll.com.au.

FACILITY PERSPECTIVES | VOLUME 9 NUMBER 1

| INDUSTRY NEWS UPDATE

Energy Efficient Loans accelerate $20 million in projects to boost competitiveness of Australian businesses Australian businesses are using Commonwealth Bank and Clean Energy Finance Corporation (CEFC) finance to accelerate $20 million in energy productivity boosting projects. The Energy Efficient Loan program, a $100 million initiative of the CEFC and Commonwealth Bank, is financing technologies that reduce energy costs and assist Australian businesses to consolidate their market position. The Commonwealth Bank and CEFC are each providing $50 million towards the $100 million Energy Efficient Loan program, which is designed to help businesses – particularly those within the manufacturing sector – upgrade equipment to reduce energy costs. The tailored loans are typically for amounts over $500,000, and can be used to finance up to 100 per cent of the purchase price, allowing businesses to preserve working capital for other purposes.

For more information, visit www.cleanenergyfinancecorp.com.au.

FMA chief appointed to ASBEC’s Executive Committee FMA’s Chief Executive Officer, Nicholas Burt, was recently appointed to the Australian Sustainable Built Environment Council’s (ASBEC) Executive Committee. ASBEC was created to develop a practical sustainable agenda for Australia’s planning, property and construction industry. ASBEC is the peak body of key organisations committed to a sustainable built environment in Australia. It provides a forum for diverse groups – including industry and professional associations, non-government organisations, and government observers involved in the planning, design, delivery and operation of our built environment – to gather, find common ground and discuss contentious issues, as well as advocate their own sustainability products, policies and initiatives.This appointment ensures a strong connection between the facilities management and allied industries.

Building the industry’s knowledge Recently, the FMA Board endorsed the Knowledge Framework’s Peer Review Process. The purpose of the peer review process is to provide an avenue in which industry stakeholders can submit knowledge for the purpose of being shared among members and other industry stakeholders. To ensure the integrity and accuracy of the information, the peer review process requires all submissions to be reviewed prior to being approved by independent reviewers. To commence, FMA is seeking parties interested in submitting or reviewing research papers, case studies or literature reviews.

Expressions of interest for reviewers As a reviewer, you will be responsible for ensuring that only submissions that meet a high standard for the industry are accepted for publication and sharing. To ensure that the review is undertaken by individuals with considerable knowledge and experience in FM, reviewers must meet the following eligibility criteria: 33 minimum five years of experience within: • a facilities management role • academia, focusing on facilities management or a relevant field of study

FACILITY PERSPECTIVES | VOLUME 9 NUMBER 1

33must have a Bachelor degree or higher in FM or relevant

field of study 33must be a financial member of the Facilities Management

Association of Australia.

If you meet the above criteria and are interested in reviewing future submissions to FMA’s resources, please email your details to policy@fma.com.au to obtain a copy of the Peer Review Guidelines.

Expressions of interest for submissions Looking to establish yourself as an industry thought leader or an expert in a particular FM-related field? Do you have research, case studies and reviews that will be of interest to the FM industry? Then make your mark by sharing your knowledge with the industry. Submissions that make it through the Peer Review Process get published in Facility Perspectives magazine with the author’s name and organisation highlighted. Additionally, a 50word blurb about the author and organisation can accompany the paper/study/review.

If you are interested in sharing knowledge within the industry, please email your details to policy@fma.com.au to obtain a copy of the Peer Review Guidelines.

| INDUSTRY UPDATE

IDEACTION.2015 WILL BE CHANGING THE GAME IN ADELAIDE Facilities management is a dynamic industry, always evolving to ensure that it remains relevant and in tune with the changing needs of building occupiers and owners; it is an industry that is constantly changing the game.

resented by the Facility Management Association of Australia, ideaction.2015, the Facilities Management National Conference & Exhibition, is to be held at the newly rebuilt Adelaide Convention Centre from 24–27 May. With ‘Changing the Game’ as it theme, ideaction.2015 will see facilities management professionals come together to share information, research and evidence-based practice case studies, while exploring how the industry is proactively addressing the many challenges that facilities managers face – both from within the industry and from without. Conference speakers will address a range of current and future industry issues, while seeking to provide some insights for your organisation’s capabilities and strategies across

a diverse range of sub-themes, including: 33 trends and future directions 33 information management 33 using technology for performance 33 emerging technology 33 fire safety 33 strategic management. The conference offers the opportunity to meet with facilities management industry professionals and government representatives from around Australia to discuss and exchange ideas, and to attend presentations by industry thought leaders, as well as participating in stimulating workshops and panel debates. This year’s keynote speakers include David Rendall, speaker, leadership professor, stand-up comedian and endurance athlete,

FACILITY PERSPECTIVES | VOLUME 9 NUMBER 1

who returns as master of ceremonies and inspiration. Stacey Copas will show you how to empower people with the tools and desire to embrace change and adversity, while Rod Hook, as former chief executive officer of the Planning, Transport and Infrastructure Department in South Australia, knows all about change. And finally, who better than Aussie football legend Kevin Sheedy to talk about nurturing young talent? Delegates will have the chance to meet with key industry suppliers in the relaxed yet informative environment of the exhibition area, where you can find out about products and services, and develop new and lasting business relationships. Tours of the SA Film Studio, Adelaide Convention Centre and Adelaide Oval, among other sites, promise to be engaging, informative and fun. Not to be missed will be this year’s numerous social opportunities, including the Chairman’s Welcome Reception at the brand-new SAHMRI Building. The social highlight of the conference, the ideaction.2015 Conference Dinner on day two at the Adelaide Oval, promises to be a night of fun with delicious food and drinks, and great entertainment. While you’re at the Conference, why not stay and experience the sights and scenery of Adelaide and its surrounds?

ideaction.2015 registrations are now open. Visit www.ideaction15.com. au to register, and for program and site visit details. Special discounted accommodation rates are on offer for conference delegates.

JOIN US IN ADELAIDE FOR THE NATIONAL FACILITIES MANAGEMENT CONFERENCE & EXHIBITION. PRESENTED BY

PLEASE VISIT THE CONFERENCE WEBSITE FOR INFORMATION ON KEYNOTE SPEAKERS, CONFERENCE PROGRAM AND EXHIBITION OPPORTUNITIES.

KEYNOTE SPEAKER SPOTLIGHT

PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS SUNDAY 24 MAY WELCOME RECEPTION MONDAY 25 MAY DAY 1 CONFERENCE SESSIONS & GALA DINNER TUESDAY 26 MAY DAY 2 CONFERENCE SESSIONS

BACK AGAIN IN 2015

DAVID RENDALL EMBRACING UNIQUENESS BY FLAUNTING WEAKNESS

KEVIN SHEEDY

DEVELOPING YOUNG TALENT

PRINCIPAL CONFERENCE DINNER SPONSOR

STACEY COPAS RESILIENCE IN CHANGE

WELCOME RECEPTION SPONSOR

ROD HOOK

TRANSFORMING A CITY

WEDNESDAY 27 MAY SITE VISITS

REVITALISE & INVIGORATE LOUNGE SPONSOR

KEYNOTE SPEAKER SPONSOR

| INDUSTRY UPDATE

SEARCH ON FOR AUSTRALIA’S BEST EMERGING TECH COMPANIES

Now in its fifth year, the Australian Technologies Competition finds, mentors and celebrates the country’s best emerging technology companies across six industry categories. Through its business accelerator program, the 30 semifinalists selected from more than 220 entries each receive intensive mentoring, make connections with investors, and gain exposure into international markets.

he winner of the Built Environment award in 2014 was CINTEP and its recycling shower that reduces water and energy use by 70 per cent. Previous winners and finalists relevant to facilities management include: 33 SMAC Technologies’ retrofit energyefficient commercial air conditioning technology 33 Aeratron’s silent and energy-efficient ceiling fans 33 Specialty Coatings’ EnerSheet™ largeformat integrated solar PV roof sheeting 33 Organic Response’s sensor technology that has initial applications in lighting solutions.

To deliver industry-specific outcomes, the Competition has a strong commercial focus, and seeks the participation of customer markets across each of the award categories. To highlight the potential for facilities managers, the FMA has partnered with the Competition on the Built Environment Award, and will be providing opportunities for its members to learn more about some of these exciting technologies. The competition program has seen some great success stories, including alumni companies winning substantial increases in orders, entering international markets and securing investment. Companies such as

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CINTEP and AquaHydrex, a 2011 Finalist, have secured major investments, and the 2014 Energy Technology Award winner, RayGen Resources, signed a $60 million deal in China as a result of the competition trade mission. In 2014, the coveted Australian Technology Company of the Year title went to Targ™ Safelash, for its safer, cost-saving lashing system that could save the shipping industry 10 billion litres of fuel annually, and prevent deaths and container losses at sea. On winning, Robin Bean, CEO of Safelash, said, ‘We are thrilled to be named Technology Company of the Year and to have gained the experience from

INDUSTRY UPDATE |

the Business Accelerator program. For us, this isn’t about winning an award; it is an opportunity to get practical assistance and coaching to improve our business.’ This sentiment was echoed by 2013 winner, Giles Bourne of LED equipment manufacturer BluGlass, who said, ‘The competition has been incredibly valuable – it has raised our profile with a new section of the investment and business community.’ John O’Brien, Managing Director of the Competition’s primary funder and manager, Australian CleanTech, says he is on a mission to turn great technologies into great businesses. ‘We aim to find the best companies, provide them with the best mentoring possible, and connect them with global partners. We want to help create multi-billion-dollar global success stories,’ says O’Brien. The Principal Sponsor of the Competition is Autodesk, a leading software company that strives to help people imagine, design and create a better world. In addition to offering highly subsidised access to its design software through the Autodesk Clean Tech Partner Program, the company mentors Competition Finalists on how they can use technology to optimise product. The Competition is also supported by AusIndustry’s Entrepreneurs’ Infrastructure Programme. The 2015 Australian Technologies Competition will be launched in Sydney on Tuesday 24 March and entries will be open until 19 May.

Award categories in 2015 will seek technologies that provide solutions for Food and Agritech, Energy Technologies, Advanced Manufacturing, Mining Technologies, Built Environment and Global Development. In addition, there will be a

new award in 2015 for the city or region that is judged to provide the greatest support to emerging technology companies.

Further information is available at www.austechcomp.com.

Safelash with Matt Barrie

FACILITY PERSPECTIVES | VOLUME 9 NUMBER 1

| INDUSTRY UPDATE

FMA PORTFOLIO GROUPS: PROVIDING VALUABLE MEMBER CONNECTION For the Facility Management Association of Australia (FMA), member engagement through a range of forums is vital to the effective and productive delivery of services, building of knowledge, provision of industry representation and raising the profile of the facilities management industry.

ortfolio Groups made up of member representatives from around the country work to develop specific content and instigate a range of activities at a national level. The four groups cover Advocacy, Education, Knowledge, and Marketing and Membership.

Advocacy The Advocacy Group provides a forum for facilities managers to connect at an industry level, and engage in discussions and development of actions related to the establishment and execution of the Associationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s advocacy agenda. The Group has played a crucial role in establishing five key areas that support and progress ongoing industry advocacy by the Association. These are: 33 position papers 33 the role of the facilities manager 33 sustainable facilities management 33 compliance and regulation 33 building information modelling (BIM). The Advocacy Group is providing a direct connection between industry practice and issue-based advocacy on behalf of the industry. This has laid a solid foundation for driving a broader industry agenda with government and other industry stakeholders that will ensure a greater impact on the future practice of facilities management. The year ahead will see work continue on the development of a range of new policy

positions that will assist the organisation in moving towards its strategic goals â&#x20AC;&#x201C; particularly, in raising the level of influence that the Association has in representing the interests of the industry.

Education This Group works to ensure that education and training within facilities management is aligned with the day-to-day needs of the industry, and that appropriate professional development is made available to address skills gaps or to target specific areas of expertise required by the industry. Drawing on the work previously undertaken by the Association, the Group has focused on developing a roadmap for education, providing strategic direction in the areas of: 33 qualifications 33 career and competency 33 credentialing/accreditation 33 professional development. The Education Portfolio Group is playing an important role in supporting the development of curriculum, as documents such as the competency matrix and the career and education pathways are endorsed by the industry.

Knowledge With its focus on the further development, use, distribution and retention of knowledge on behalf of the facilities management industry, the Knowledge Group is critical in providing an evidence base for all activities undertaken by the FMA, and in ensuring that relevant and accurate knowledge is developed, accumulated, stored and disseminated. Areas of interest for the group include: 1. benchmarking 2. research 3. Good Practice Guides 4. knowledge storage and access 5. dissemination and communication.

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The Group has been working through two short-term projects: benchmarking, and the development of a knowledge framework. These projects will ensure the delivery of a higher quality of information to the industry. The Knowledge Portfolio Group has overseen the development of some specific content, such as the Good Practice Guide on Facilities Information. It has also provided a clear framework for the development of knowledge moving forward. The broad crosssection of membership in the Group continues to ensure that the information and knowledge is both credible and relevant to the industry.

Marketing and Membership Providing strategic advice and coordinated action on issues related to marketing and member engagement, the Group is working to improve the connection with members, drive a higher level of member value, and strengthen the perception of the organisation within the facilities management industry and related industries working in the built environment. The Group has focused on four key issues that have an impact on member and industry perception: 33 branding development and launch 33 sponsorship 33 member communication 33 member understanding. Following a series of member interactions, including surveys and research that has provided a clear indication of the brand as it is perceived in the market, the Group has been actively involved in the development and launch of the new FMA brand. The Group has been an invaluable sounding-board for a number of organisational initiatives, and has been instrumental in supporting the establishment of projects including the development of the new website and database requirements.

If you are interested in joining a Portfolio Group, email policy@fma.com.au.

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he company MYBOS is a building and facilities management application for residential and commercial properties, and offers a number of tools to streamline traditional building management activity through a simple and modern online-based system. In addition to reducing the cost of traditional management operations, MYBOS provides residents with a private, amenity-rich web portal that includes engaging, community-building features and continually updated information about their property, community and neighbourhood. Whether you are a building manager, facilities manager or government organisation, MYBOSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s software will cater for all your needs. Key features include, but are not limited to: automated building management report; emailed WO and SMS services; an advanced case management system with the ability to upload videos, images and documents; a dynamic colour-coded preventative maintenance calendar; an asset register, and resident and contractor database; an integrated key and parcel system with signature and emailing services; a resident/tenant community portal; and building database storing manuals, site plans, work orders, meters and daily inspections. MYBOS is a secure system that effectively manages the day-to-day requirements of a building.

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| GREEN BUILDINGS â&#x20AC;&#x201C; RETROFITTING

LETTING THE LIGHT IN ON ADELAIDE OVAL BY NORMAN DISNEY & YOUNG Following a major three-year redevelopment, the lights switched on at Adelaide Oval in time for the opening bounce of the 2014 AFL season. The $535 million project included a complete new floodlighting installation, providing highdefinition televised conditions for international cricket, AFL and soccer matches.

he lighting solution was designed to integrate with the existing high mast towers and grandstand structures, while meeting the demands of high-definition broadcasting. Numerous major requirements and challenges confronted the lighting designers. It was necessary to provide a flexible, multi-level switching solution to enable the client to select various levels of illumination for a range of sporting codes

covering non-televised professional training and competition, to be televised in highdefinition broadcasting (HDTV). The lighting also had to comply with International Cricket Council (ICC) guidelines for highdefinition televised live production of international cricket matches, as well as current AFL guidelines. The majority of the playing surface is illuminated from the four lighting towers, with high-efficiency, symmetric beam

It was necessary to provide a flexible, multi-level switching solution to enable the client to select various levels of illumination for a range of sporting codes

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GREEN BUILDINGS – RETROFITTING |

New high grandstand roof structures introduced shadowing, which meant that floodlights were needed to maintain vertical illuminances towards cameras, and horizontal illumination at the field boundaries

floodlights. The multifunctional lighting design was made more complicated with the non-symmetrical location of the existing towers, meaning that the lighting design had to consider each pole, instead of using a mirrored scenario of calculating two or four towers at the same time. The existing tower headframes were deemed to be in good condition and were retained, with each headframe offering a total of 144 possible floodlight locations. For aesthetic reasons, and to satisfy workplace

health and safety concerns about gaps in the unused sports light slots, it was decided that the unpowered old floodlights in the spare headframe locations would be used. Provision for additional floodlights to meet the demands of future events can therefore be achieved by replacing the old floodlights at the unused locations with new floodlights if and when required. New high grandstand roof structures introduced shadowing, which meant that floodlights were needed to maintain

vertical illuminances towards cameras, and horizontal illumination at the field boundaries. The efficient symmetric beam floodlight can sometimes cause unwanted hotspots at field boundaries if used in excess from roof structures. The solution used a combination of two separate asymmetric distributions, with symmetric beam floodlights, to reduce intensities and prevent illumination levels exceeding high limits. The lighting design did not employ any floodlights with aiming angles higher than 55 degrees, compared to the maximum 70-degree elevations used by the tower floodlights. Cricket posed the most challenging sporting code, given that the total playing surface is divided into three separate areas: wicket, infield and outfield. HDTV employs cameras all around the 360-degree field, requiring full lighting level and even illumination, especially on the centre wicket, where super slow-motion (SSM) cameras are now frequently used. SSM cameras require extremely high levels of uniformity. With numerous cameras viewing each respective area, and all requiring different levels of illumination, it is extremely difficult to meet the brief for each area without making the

33 non-televised – professional competition cricket (1000 lux

wicket/750 lux infield/500 lux outfield) 33 televised – AFL (1800 lux vertical to camera) 33 televised – rugby/soccer (1800 lux vertical to camera) 33 televised – international cricket (2500 lux wicket/2000 lux

The design comprised four non-televised modes and three televised modes, with respective illumination requirements as follows: 33 non-televised – two equal AFL training modes (250 lux), enabling the client to rotate between two highly used modes of operation, thereby spreading lamp life over a greater number of light fittings 33 non-televised – professional competition AFL (500 lux)

infield/1800 lux outfield, vertical to camera). An additional functional mode was included at the completion of the project, to allow specific grandstand floodlights to switch on at the conclusion of an event, enabling cleaners and others to work within terraced seating areas without the installation burning excessive amounts of power. Lighting consultants NDYLIGHT were engaged for the project and worked with project managers Mott MacDonald and Architects Cox/Walter Brooke to develop both the design and tender packages for procurement and installation. Working closely with the Lend Lease project team, the successful supplier, Sylvania Lighting, design detailed, supplied and commissioned the redevelopment.

FACILITY PERSPECTIVES | VOLUME 9 NUMBER 1

| GREEN BUILDINGS â&#x20AC;&#x201C; RETROFITTING

total playing surface vary significantly in distribution and appearance. The stadium is on the fringe of the Adelaide CBD, and is ringed with residential and commercial properties; therefore, all non-televised modes had to comply with the obtrusive light standard AS4282. Floodlight elevations were reduced wherever possible to minimise glare to motorists and spill light to surrounding areas. Spill light does not exceed the maximum permissible values of 10 lux residential and 25 lux commercial at relevant boundaries. Measurements during the commissioning phase found the installation to comply with

all specified televised and non-televised levels (vertical uniformities in the central wicket area all exceed 0.9), and the Adelaide Oval has been used for televised AFL and cricket night games since completion of the lighting redevelopment.

Adelaide Oval is a world-class sporting and entertainment venue that has received enormous praise from the client, broadcasters and, most importantly, the public â&#x20AC;&#x201C; it is a ground that remains as iconic as it has ever been.

About NDYLIGHT NDYLIGHT is a lighting design consultancy whose lighting designs are integrated into architectural, interior and landscape designs. Architectural lighting brings together art and science in equal measure.

FACILITY PERSPECTIVES | VOLUME 9 NUMBER 1

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owerstar Virtue is a unique energy storage solution that can turn large power users into a virtual power station. The new technology has been developed by Powerstar, manufacturer of the world’s market-leading range of voltage optimisation (VO) systems. Anyone who negotiates power contracts that comprise a mix of peak and off-peak tariffs could be in a position to save tens of thousands of dollars per year on their power bill. The new Powerstar Virtue works with the patented Powerstar VO technology and harnesses the excess voltage supplied from the grid, which Powerstar VO would normally return to the grid to generate energy savings. While this technology can generate average savings of 12–15 per cent per annum, Powerstar Virtue takes this one step further for large power users. The system stores

Before Powerstar Virtue

the excess and deploys it at the time of day when the cost of power is at peak tariff, thereby producing even greater savings than using voltage optimisation alone. By directing the excess power to storage when the cost of power is priced at the low tariff, when the high tariff kicks in or during the maximum demand period, there is sufficient stored power to go off the grid completely for two hours, or reduce kilowatt usage to 50 per cent ‘new’ power for four hours. Powerstar Virtue can be integrated with on-site renewable energy generation to combine the energy saved from the VO system with that generated from the renewable energy source. As with all Powerstar solutions, they come with a 100 per cent savings guarantee and have the additional security of vendor finance. www.powerstar.com

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FACILITY PERSPECTIVES | VOLUME 9 NUMBER 1

| GREEN BUILDINGS

ENERGY MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS – WHY YOU NEED THEM AND HOW TO MAKE THEM WORK

It’s one thing to equip your facilities with energy-efficiency technologies and fittings, but it’s another thing entirely to manage your facility’s energy use in an efficient and effective way. This means not only implementing energy efficiency procedures, but also establishing an energy management team, gaining support from building tenants and senior-level staff members, and providing an energy management strategy that is easy to communicate and easy to follow.

continued on page 20

FACILITY PERSPECTIVES | VOLUME 9 NUMBER 1

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| GREEN BUILDINGS

continued from page 18

n energy management plan is vital in helping you and the building’s occupants to understand where and how energy savings can be achieved, the impact that a reduction in energy use can have on the company (for instance, cost and productivity savings), and who should be involved in the process. Even the most staunch climate change naysayers can’t deny that energy efficiency is good for business, at the very least from a bottom-line point of view. According to ENERGY STAR, well thought-out energy management can reduce energy costs in the order of three to 10 per cent per year. Add to that costs saved through reduced absenteeism, and value increased through productivity and brand reputation, and it’s definitely in your best interests to ensure that you have a comprehensive, wellcommunicated business plan that is suited to the operations of your building. Before an energy management plan is put in place, a decision needs to be made about who will make up the core energy management team within the facility. You will need an energy team leader who has total support from the building owner and/ or top-level management, and who has the authority to make decisions. This person will lead the team without ‘owning’ the team, and will be passionate about achieving energy efficiency targets. Facilities managers are likely to be involved at this level, given their position between building owners and building tenants. There are a variety of professional areas that affect energy use, so look into which people within the building or company can be appointed to take care of certain elements of your energy management plan. This includes purchasing, financial management, contractors, operations and maintenance, design, IT, utilities, and many more. Suppliers can help to advance your energy efficiency goals – look at which suppliers promote energy efficiency in their company’s business model, and discuss how they can assist you in your energy management plan. You may also be able to educate existing suppliers on ways in which they can improve

Before an energy management plan is put in place, a decision needs to be made about who will make up the core energy management team within the facility their own energy efficiency, and thereby pass on savings to customers (and you). The first step is to commit to energy management; this is the acknowledgement that you will build sustainability into your corporate identity. Once this energy management plan is put in place, there’s no going back! Once that first step has been taken, assess the performance of your building using either an online assessment tool, or one of Australia’s dedicated assessors, such as the National Australian Built Environment Rating System (NABERS) or the Green Building Council of Australia’s (GBCA) Green Star rating system. This is the key to gaining detailed information about the energy use of the organisation, and identifying where you can make real gains through energy efficiency improvement. With the information that you acquire from your assessment, set goals for your facility. Which areas require the most attention in terms of their energy use? What targets will you set for yourself and your team? Be sure to set realistic targets, and staged goals so that you and your team can see the progress that’s being made. Communicate your findings with the entire building, so they understand the impact of the building’s operations, and each person’s contribution to energy use and energy efficiency. Create an action plan that involves not only the appointed energy management personnel, but also the entire staff of the building. This will ensure total dedication to the cause. When the plan has been communicated to all stakeholders and implemented, keep track of your building’s progress, and keep everyone in the loop. Communication should be frequent and of the highest quality, ensuring transparency

FACILITY PERSPECTIVES | VOLUME 9 NUMBER 1

and accountability. When certain goals are met, reassess the performance of the building and adjust processes and goals where necessary. It’s also important to recognise achievements when they’re made, to maintain engagement in the energy management plan. As with any new undertaking, you may see a surge of enthusiasm at the beginning of the plan, but there’s a chance that, due to other work demands or a lack of exposure to the project, enthusiasm will wane; if this happens, the plan could develop some inconsistencies. It is essential to maintain consistency of an energy management plan, so regular monitoring and reporting are imperative. Provide feedback to team members, follow up on queries and concerns, take suggestions on board, and communicate any changes in the plan to all stakeholders. A detailed documentation system should be in place so that you can access all of the building’s energy data. Keep an ongoing record; this will assist in reviews, evaluation, transparency and accountability. There are many initiatives available to building owners and managers that help with energy efficiency goals. Financing programs for retrofitting are becoming more widespread, and are particularly appealing given that they can be repaid through cost savings achieved in the reduction of energy use. With such strong global impetus for change in the sustainability of the built environment, there’s no real excuse not to get on board, and these tips for energy management will help you to ensure that your building delivers over and above your expectations.

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| GREEN BUILDINGS

WHY WE NEED GREENER CLASSROOMS BY EMMA BERTHOLD, GOOD ENVIRONMENTAL CHOICE AUSTRALIA

Natural light is linked to increased learning progress

Schools come with their own unique challenges from an operational point of view. Most of the building occupants are much younger than those in commercial buildings, with bodies and minds that are still developing. That means that they’re even more sensitive to the indoor air quality and surroundings – they’re prime candidates for a ‘green’ facilities upgrade to improve the spaces where they learn, interact and grow.

FACILITY PERSPECTIVES | VOLUME 9 NUMBER 1

GREEN BUILDINGS |

lot of the conversation around green buildings and how they’re run on a daily basis centres around commercial and corporate spaces, often thanks to fewer restrictions on funding for such projects compared to school buildings. According to a 2013 report released by the Green Building Council of Australia (GBCA), titled ‘The future of Australian education – Sustainable places for learning’, most Australian schools and many tertiary institutions have been built ‘to meet only minimum building code requirements’. This is despite the wealth of research linking ‘green’ buildings with improved health, satisfaction and productivity of building occupants, much of which is outlined in the report. A 2013 study from the United Kingdom found that classroom environments can influence a child’s academic progress over one year by ‘as much as 25 per cent’. Even simple elements such as having plenty of natural

Even simple elements such as having plenty of natural daylight can be linked to increased learning progress in mathematics and reading

daylight can be linked to increased learning progress in mathematics and reading, and the quality of room ventilation directly correlates with student performance in tests. And, of course, indoor air quality in ‘green’ learning environments dramatically improves the health of students and teachers – one United States study claimed an improvement of 41.5 per cent, including ‘reduced instances of asthma, flu,

respiratory problems and headaches’. Toxins affecting indoor air quality can be biological or chemical. Examples of biological toxins can include dust and pollen, whereas chemical toxins tend to come from substances used in building materials, furnishings, cleaning products, and other sources. If students and staff are frequently coughing or complaining of headaches, or have other consistent symptoms linked to a building’s

FACILITY PERSPECTIVES | VOLUME 9 NUMBER 1

| GREEN BUILDINGS

Toxins affecting indoor air quality can be biological or chemical. Examples of biological toxins can include dust and pollen, whereas chemical toxins tend to come from substances used in building materials, furnishings, cleaning products, and other sources

indoor environment, these are fairly good indicators that the classroom has poor indoor air quality that needs to be addressed. Indoor air quality can be much worse compared to the air outside, and is often laden with levels of toxins ‘orders of magnitude higher’ than those found outside, according to Dr Shaila Divakarla, Standards and Technical Manager at Good Environmental Choice Australia (GECA). These toxins can come from a range of sources inside; paints, furniture, flooring, adhesives, and even the cleaning products used in the space can all have an impact. All of these sources can emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs), depending on how they’ve been manufactured or what materials have been used in each product. Negative impacts on health can range from tiredness, headaches, and respiratory and skin irritations, right through to cancer at the other, more extreme, end of the spectrum. It all depends on the compounds that are present in the interiors or cleaning products, which then vaporise into the surrounding air. VOCs are only one potential component of a poor indoor environment – health hazards can lurk in other components of furniture products, such as some classes of brominated flame retardants in foam, or phthalates and bisphenol A (BPA) in plastic products. These can leach out of products

in small doses over time and gradually contribute to a range of health issues. So, what’s the best way to manage educational environments to ensure that students and staff members are at their healthiest and most productive? Getting rid of all potentially toxic material, having adequate ventilation for

Classroom fittings and furnishings, particularly in unventilated rooms, can have a significant effect on health

FACILITY PERSPECTIVES | VOLUME 9 NUMBER 1

all areas, and isolating ‘toxic’ areas are all vital steps in improving the classroom environment and making learning spaces better for all. Simple measures, such as more frequent and thorough cleaning methods (including cleaning the carpets), and making sure that waste management is kept under control to minimise pests, can easily be incorporated into facilities management regimes. Further steps can involve checking the ingredients listed on cleaning products, and switching to healthier alternatives. While there simply may not be the resources available for large-scale refurbishment work, taking small steps when needed can make a difference. For example, if a particular classroom needs a fresh coat of paint, choose one of the VOC-free options available on the market. If furniture needs replacing, look for products that bear a thirdparty ecolabel, such as the scheme run by GECA, to take the confusion out of buying ‘green’. All of these small measures will add up to make a real difference that benefits the next generation.

SPONSORED ARTICLE

Lock it in

xcel Lockers manufactures an extensive range of stylish timber lockers, steel lockers and bench seating. Suitable for any application, whether it’s corporate offices, hotels, sporting clubs, fitness centres, health care facilities or industrial facilities, Excel Lockers has the solution to your locker requirements.

Excel Lockers timber lockers are manufactured from resilient MR board, and are available in two standard widths. Excel Lockers is currently expanding its range of lockers, locker finishes and locking options. The company has noticed that people are now requesting more possible uses for their lockers, rather than just bag storage or clothes hanging, and, with this in mind, Excel is manufacturing units for laptop, tablet, phone and skateboard storage, with adjustable shelving and custom sizing. As people become more securityconscious, locking requirements are changing; while keyed locking or padlock fitting is standard, and options for $2 coin return and $2 coin retain locks and Digi4 locks are available, more requests than ever have been made for keyless locking with swipe card options, which give more control over use. Excel Lockers also stocks the ever-popular metal lockers, as well as metal sports lockers and lockers for military, correctional and emergency services.

FACILITY PERSPECTIVES | VOLUME 9 NUMBER 1

We have the solution to your locker requirements

FREECALL 1800 019 266 HEAD OFFICE: 17b Rosa Place, Richlands QLD 4077 E: enquiries@excellockers.com.au

www.excellockers.com.au

FACILITY PERSPECTIVES | VOLUME 9 NUMBER 1

SPONSORED ARTICLE

Award-winning boiling water by Rheem Rheem has turned up the heat on above-bench boiling water products with the Lazer® range – the Lazer Office, Lazer Eco and Lazer Commercial. Design innovation for the Lazer Office has been rewarded with an Australian International Design Award.

Rheem Lazer unit can reduce energy used by up to 40 per cent over the course of a normal working week1. Additionally, the range can deliver from 20 to more than 247 cups2 of boiling water immediately. The Lazer Office, which won a Design Award at the 2013 Australian International Design Awards, is designed for office/waiting room environments. It’s available in three- and five-litre capacities, which equates to 20–35 cups2 of boiling water, ready to use, and 123 cups2 per hour. Features include the following: 3 integrated tap 3 built-in seven-day timer 3 self-diagnostic display with electronic controller 3 sleep mode, which automatically shuts down the Lazer Office if it hasn’t been used for a set period of time 3 two stylish finishes – powder coat white and brushed stainless steel 3 pre-drilled wall mount, enabling easy installation. The Lazer Eco is a cost-effective model, designed for a wide range of light commercial and industrial environments. It’s available in 3.5- and 7.5-litre models, delivering up to 50 cups2 of boiling water, ready to use, and up to 123 cups per hour. A major feature is the ‘eco-mode’, a one-button control that provides boiling water with reduced energy consumption. When activated, the eco-mode automatically turns the Lazer Eco off after two hours, reducing power consumption by up to 40 per cent1. The Lazer Commercial is a high-flow-capacity boiling water unit that is designed for the demands of a commercial kitchen, sports club or busy workplace. It has capacities of 7.5, 10, 15, 25 and 40 litres, which can deliver from 50–247 cups2 of boiling water, ready to use, and 123–241 cups2 per hour. The high-flow tap fills up to 35 per cent faster than other units. The seven-day timer ensures that there is boiling water ready to use, and it turns the energy off when boiling water is not required. Additionally, the sleep mode will turn off the system automatically when it hasn’t been used for a set period of time.

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POTENTIAL ENERGY CONSUMPTION SAVINGS VALUES ARE APPROXIMATE AND PROVIDED FOR GENERAL REFERENCE PURPOSES ONLY. ACTUAL HEAT LOSS REDUCTIONS WILL VARY DEPENDING ON THE SYSTEM INSTALLED, REGIONAL TEMPERATURES, GEOGRAPHICAL LOCATION AND OTHER FACTORS.

CUP SIZE IS 170 MILLILITRES.

AWARD-WINNING BOILING WATER BY

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The New Lazer® Range With three stylish new designs, one touch power saving, rock-solid stability and capacities to suit the most demanding boiling water needs, the new Rheem Lazer® range continues to lead the market in performance and design. So much so that, this year, the Lazer® Office has received an Australian International Design Award in recognition of its excellence. From the Lazer Eco, a cost effective boiling water unit, to the 40 Litre Rheem Commercial, you can trust the new Rheem Lazer® range for all your instant boiling water needs.

Rheem Australia Pty Ltd For further information contact us on 132 552 or visit our website at www.rheem.com.au ® Registered Trademark of Rheem Australia Pty Ltd

| GREEN BUILDINGS

TRENDS IN GREEN BUILDING BY GEMMA PECKHAM Not so long ago, it was the progressive, mould-breaking businesses that were getting into green building, and this was largely driven by a desire to do the right thing with regards to the environment. In the current building climate, there are few facilities that haven’t implemented – or that aren’t thinking of implementing – green building practices and technologies into their operations. The uptake of green building elements for commercial buildings is now no longer driven by social conscience; it’s a business imperative.

FACILITY PERSPECTIVES | VOLUME 9 NUMBER 1

n the latest McGraw-Hill Construction SmartMarket Report, titled ‘World Green Building Trends: Business Benefits Driving New and Retrofit Market Opportunities in Over 60 Countries’, a marked shift towards businesses embracing green building philosophies was reported. The report published the results of a survey of engineers, consultants, architects, contractors and building owners from 62 countries around the world. More than half of the respondents indicated their intention to incorporate green measures at higher rates than in the past, and the reason for this has changed; where green building was once implemented as a direct retaliation against climate change, it has now become a multi-faceted approach to

GREEN BUILDINGS |

Healthy workers and communities

business growth. Yes, the drive to affect environmental change remains, but there are myriad other drivers behind the uptake of sustainable development. Top of the list is client and market demand, as businesses realise that societal awareness of climate change has precipitated a desire for sustainable operations in all facets of society. Along with this comes a proven drop in operating costs when green building approaches are implemented, as well as higher building values, and futureproof buildings. Another benefit of green building thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been well documented of late is the health and productivity improvements that a healthy, green environment can offer to building occupants. So, here are a few trends that we can expect to see in the near future with regard to green building:

Green financing Environmental Upgrade Agreements (EUAs) offer financing to building owners who are addressing environmental inefficiency in their buildings. These finance options allow building owners to upgrade their existing building stock to reduce operational costs and energy usage, and theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re innovative in that

they are linked to the building rather than the business, and can be repaid through council rates notices. Uptake has been swift in cities currently offering EUAs (in Victoria and New South Wales), and the reach is widening, with South Australia introducing a building upgrade finance bill in February this year.

Building information modelling (BIM) Monitoring the performance of your building and its individual components is a great way to ensure that your building operations are delivering value. BIM is not used solely for measuring sustainability metrics, but it is an extremely useful tool in understanding how a variety of building features can affect the facilityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s green building performance. 3D, 4D and 5D modelling allows architects and engineers to focus on optimising an entire building; integrating all of the systems to ensure optimum collaborative performance, rather than focusing on individual elements of the building. Existing buildings can employ BIM to identify areas of the facility that could be retrofitted for great energy efficiency impact, and new builds can use the technology to analyse the impact of their building materials and building orientation, and to optimise energy use.

Green building considerations are expanding from concern over the impact of buildings on climate change, to the impact of buildings on occupant health and productivity, and to providing facilities to the wider community for healthier, greener lifestyles. Implementing a variety of green building elements such as indoor plants; low-VOC paints, furniture and fittings; adaptive thermal comfort control; and natural lighting can have a staggering effect on the health and wellbeing of workers. Flow-on benefits of this include reduced absenteeism, higher levels of worker satisfaction, and greater productivity in the workplace. Extending this to the provision of end-oftrip facilities so that building users can ride to work instead of driving, building close to public transport routes to enable easier commutes, and creating outdoor spaces for networking and collaboration, as well as leisure activities, contributes to a healthier, greener community.

Renewables Research in the renewable energy sphere is ramping up, with solar, wind and geothermal power emerging as contenders for alternative sources of energy. With commercial buildings accounting for the majority of energy use in our cities, it makes sense to harness renewable energy and mitigate the negative climate effects of our facilities. The Bullit Center in Seattle, Washington, is 100 per cent powered by renewable energy, and is the greenest building in the world. In Australia, the installed capacity of solar panels on commercial buildings increased ninefold in the three years from 2010 to 2013, according to the Property Council of Australia. The property industry continues to invest in renewable technologies, and renewable uptake will only increase in the foreseeable future.

FACILITY PERSPECTIVES | VOLUME 9 NUMBER 1

SPONSORED ARTICLE

‘Energy efficiency is not just low-hanging fruit; it is fruit that is lying on the ground.’ STEVEN CHU, FORMER UNITED STATES SECRETARY OF ENERGY

Relentlessly rising energy costs he cost of energy has been rising relentlessly for many years now. Search for ‘energy costs increasing’, and you’ll get more than 22 million hits. In today’s globally connected, globally competitive world, rising energy costs are a common issue. Given that buildings are by far the greatest consumers of energy in any advanced economy, it is not surprising that there’s been a lot of focus recently on improving building energy efficiency. If you’re not improving your energy efficiency, you’re missing out on a significant business opportunity. Governments around the world have also identified energy efficiency as a primary platform in their energy policies. Improving energy efficiency improves economic competitiveness and energy security. It’s also the lowest-cost way to achieve CO2 reduction targets. Many governments around the world now run programs to subsidise building energy efficiency improvement. So precisely how do you go about improving the efficiency of your buildings? The answer is in turning the vast amount of data that is currently swamping your facilities team into useful business information. To do that, you require a robust and efficient energy management system (EMS). It is the only way that you can make rapid and sound business decisions around the operation of your buildings that: 3 significantly improve the capital value of your building 3 save money immediately 3 improve the productivity of your workforce 3 avoid potentially costly unexpected downtime 3 improve your corporate image.

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Conservia is a business within the Oberix Group – a global company focused on optimising building performance through innovation, people and technology. An approved Energy Services Company (ESCO) to the Victorian and New South Wales Governments’ Greener Buildings Program, Conservia has a depth of experience spanning all technologies that are applicable to integrated building solutions, to ensure the best technology outcomes for clients. As a member of the Energy Efficiency Council (EEC), Conservia follows all contractual requirements, and measurement and verification (M&V) protocols, that are associated with energy performance contracting (EPC). Conservia’s Energy Performance Engineers are Certified Energy Efficiency Specialists (CEES) and have undergone Efficiency Valuation Organisation (EVO) training and Certified Measurement and Verification Professional (CMVP) training conducted by EEC. Conservia understands that an important part of your business is to ensure the efficient operation of the facilities you own and operate. Conservia helps to accelerate and optimise your facility’s performance through the implementation of Energy Conservation Measures (ECMs) while your facility remains operational. ECMs might include small projects ranging from innovative technology improvements to building tuning. Our Platinum and Green contracting models work well for building owners and portfolio managers who are looking for a guaranteed improvement in the NABERS rating of their facilities.

SPONSORED ARTICLE

The Conservia advantage 3 Conservia prides itself on developing business cases, budgets, auditing, planning, implementation and service, and differentiates itself in many ways from its competition. 3 Conservia’s upgrades come with a performance guarantee, demonstrated results and proven client and end-user satisfaction. 3 Conservia has the ability to provide either specialised integrated or singular services based on the client’s requirements through the various divisions within the group. 3 Conservia’s platinum performance contract takes a different approach to traditional contracting, with regular monitoring, fine-tuning, building optimisation and energy savings guaranteed. The energy savings achieved over the term of the contract generally pay for the minor works/ small projects, and can be accommodated under the client’s OPEX budget. A level one, or desktop, audit will be conducted by Conservia, with a report providing recommendations on the prioritisation of works and the energy savings that can be achieved. 3 Conservia has a flexible approach to adopting minor and medium-scale projects under operational budgets; in addition, a value-for-money (VfM) and whole-of-life approach is taken with all projects. 3 Conservia has the capacity to manage a total works package, where it makes sense for the company to work as the lead contractor. This is a value-added service, which makes Conservia a ‘one-stop shop’ for installation and services that are associated with an energy improvement, such as mechanical plant, equipment and controls in existing buildings. 3 Conservia stays ahead of the game in technology, project delivery, service and maintenance, with continued involvement from individual account

3 3

managers throughout feasibility, planning, projects, defects liability and service phases. Conservia’s varied experience comprises a fully trained team of engineers and technicians. Conservia offers flexible and attractive terms for medium, long-term and multi-site contracts.

Conservia’s solutions 3 Conservia’s solutions deliver financial benefits and savings, as well as considering environmental benefits and the contribution to carbon reduction. 3 Conservia has independent, expert advisory and prompt, personalised service packages for enhancing building/ facility performance with a consultative approach. 3 Conservia delivers positive environmental and economic outcomes. 3 Energy reporting is comprehensive – NABERS, maximum demand and zone profiles are used. 3 A comprehensive energy management platform allows for a robust, low-cost solution with a VfM approach. 3 Conservia’s platform integrates with the Building Management System (BMS), lighting controls, energy meters, and security and fire systems. 3 Users can access a secure interface via web browser with easy-to-apply security policies. 3 Conservia uses a fully open native BACnet™ communication platform, and simple remote user interface with 3D graphics. Contact Conservia for a no-cost, obligation-free site inspection and discussion, to see how we can help you achieve your environmental goals.

Contact: info@conservia.com 03 9918 7766

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| GREEN BUILDINGS

INFORMATION MATTERS BY ROMILLY MADEW, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER GREEN BUILDING COUNCIL OF AUSTRALIA

According to science research website ScienceDaily, 90 per cent of the world’s data was generated in the last two years.

ow we manage this data and what we do with it will determine whether we are able to create better places for people. Professor Vivian Loftness, keynote speaker at Green Cities this year, has spent more than 30 years investigating environmental design and sustainability, advanced building systems integration, and design for performance in the workplaces of the future. She argues that our awareness of good indoor environment quality (IEQ) has accelerated with the emergence of robust sensors that can detect the previously undetectable. ‘The human nose isn’t capable of detecting some things, and there are many pollutants that we can’t see – such as fine particulates from power plants or ozone from automobiles. What we can’t detect through smell, however, we can detect through other

responses – such as headaches, fatigue or congestion,’ says Loftness. While we instinctively understand when a building’s IEQ is poor, we now have access to data that confirms our gut feeling. The University of Sydney’s IEQ Lab, for example, has developed specific technology for measuring indoor environment quality, which is delivering richer data than ever before. The IEQ Lab has designed a module that sits on a desk and is able to monitor various environmental parameters – temperature, humidity, air movement, ventilation rates, air quality, daylight, artificial lighting, sound and acoustics. Information can be accessed and analysed in real time, providing trends and comparisons with other buildings, and enabling building managers to make better decisions. ‘Not everyone is happy at 22 degrees, as they have different levels of health, physical activity and even clothing preferences,’ Loftness argues.

FACILITY PERSPECTIVES | VOLUME 9 NUMBER 1

‘The temperature requirements of a healthy, fit person are very different to those of someone who is sedentary. Individual controls for thermal comfort will become increasingly important as our understanding of thermal comfort grows,’ Loftness explains. Data also holds the key to establishing an irrefutable business case for investment in buildings with good IEQ. ‘Buildings are still considered a cost centre – not an enabler of human productivity,’ Loftness says, arguing that part of the problem lies in the fact that almost all financial data is separate from human resource (HR) data. ‘All the HR functions – such as absenteeism, turnover, workers’ compensation, and sick leave – are kept on different spreadsheets from building operational cost data. We need to ensure corporate leaders have this data at their fingertips so they can begin to draw correlations between building quality, employee performance and health costs.’

The IEQ Lab has designed a module that sits on a desk and is able to monitor various environmental parameters – temperature, humidity, air movement, ventilation rates, air quality, daylight, artificial lighting, sound and acoustics

GREEN BUILDINGS |

Using air quality as an example, Loftness says that building owners and managers can look at the quality of mechanical systems and filtration, or the elimination of outgassing materials in a building, to compare rates of respiratory illness with other buildings within their portfolio. ‘This opportunity is in the hands of organisations with large building portfolios,’ she says. ‘By comparing the operational costs of a building against the environmental and human costs, we’ll be able to see the full consequences of human productivity. ‘We’ve been fighting a pretty long battle to get people who construct and manage buildings to invest more in healthy environments. But sensors are getting cheaper, and data is getting easier to access than ever before. When building owners finally put the data they are already

collecting into one database, then we will reach the “tipping point” in realising that buildings are a tool for better productivity and better health.’ Ultimately, we are entering a new epoch in which technology will not just create data, but it will also help us to use data to create healthy, productive and sustainable places for people.

The Green Building Council of Australia (GBCA) will host its annual Green Building Day on Tuesday 19 May in Sydney and Thursday 21 May in Melbourne, during which we’ll explore the emerging markets, mega trends and technologies changing our buildings, communities and cities. Find out more: www.gbca.org.au/events/greenbuilding-day.

By comparing the operational costs of a building against the environmental and human costs, we’ll be able to see the full consequences of human productivity

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SPONSORED ARTICLE

Cheers for Siemens’ effort on One Central Park development

iemens has cemented its position as the integration specialist for energy management systems with its work at Sydney’s award-winning One Central Park development – a joint development by Frasers Property Australia and Sekisui House. In the space once occupied by Australia’s oldest brewery, One Central Park represents one of Sydney’s latest major mixed-use urban renewal projects, with Siemens technology providing a state-of-the-art billing system to aid ongoing sustainability. ‘Our involvement in One Central Park offers a glimpse into the future of sustainable development,’ says Siemens Executive General Manager Building Technologies, Stefan Schwab. Developers set themselves the lofty goal of creating Australia’s greenest and most self-sufficient mixed-use urban development, where sustainability is a way of life. They tasked Siemens with the installation of a billing-grade energy management system (EMS). ‘It means we can email daily energy and water consumption reports for all services to the customer for billing purposes. It’s a great example of intelligent infrastructure and Siemens technology translating big data into user-friendly smart data. ‘At the touch of a screen located in each apartment, residents can monitor apartment total energy, and hot and cold water consumption.’ Consumers can also display real-time data for energy and water consumption, indicative cost, and greenhouse emissions on touch screens installed in each of the more than 600 apartments. ‘This means tenants can monitor their instantaneous energy consumption, cost and CO2 emissions, and compare with previous days, weeks or even months, allowing them to track and alter their usage prior to receiving a bill.’ In addition, Schwab says the EMS could scrutinise chilled water, hot water, domestic hot water and spa thermal energy meters, monitor main switchboard electrical meters, and inspect bulk potable and non-potable water meters. Schwab says the system uses the fibre-optic infrastructure to support all EMS functions, as well as building management systems (BMS), internet protocol TV (IPTV), internet, security, CCTV and intercom. ‘The main risk of this project was to successfully provide a robust and reliable billing-grade EMS that met all standards and requirements. Our team worked closely with the developers to produce an energy meter customised specifically to the requirements of One Central Park.’ One Central Park was only the first stage of the development, housing 623 apartments for which Siemens installed the EMS. Park Lane and The Mark constituted stage two of the development, with a further 805 apartments – all using the same EMS and BMS installed by Siemens. The inspiration for the building’s design came from Pritzker Prize-winning architect Jean Nouvel, who is famous for designing many of the world’s most distinctive buildings.

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Characterised by its rooftop gardens, green walls, and smart metering systems, One Central Park boasts an on-site thermal trigeneration plant and a water-recycling plant. The building is expected to achieve a minimum 5 Star Green Star rating from the Green Building Council of Australia. The complex has already won accolades, including the prestigious 2014 ‘Best Tall Building Worldwide’ at the annual Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat. One Central Park – control and monitoring The systems installed by Siemens are responsible for the control and monitoring of: 3 Chilled and hot water supply to the apartments fan coil unit 3 Ventilation fans 3 Lobby and external lighting 3 Domestic hot water supply to the apartments 3 Domestic hot water supply to the spa 3 Apartment energy and water consumption 3 Electrical, mechanical and light and power switchboard energy consumption 3 Chilled water, hot water, domestic/ spa water thermal energy consumption 3 Potable, non-potable, irrigation and retail tenant water consumption 3 Hydraulic and gas services status and alarms 3 Lifts status and alarms 3 Fire alarms and spa alarms 3 Daily energy and water consumption for all customers 3 Real time energy and water consumption data via touch screen 3 Critical alarms emailed to security office and building manager.

Further information is available online at www.siemens.com.

Desigo CC Australian launch coming soon in 2015.

A new building control centre developed with you in mind Available from Siemens authorised Solution Partners in 2015.

Desigo CC gives you a new level of control. Siemens designed Desigo CC with input from building operators around the world. The result is a control centre that allows you to optimise your entire buildingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s performance from one station. It offers superior control and integrates planned workflows for building automation, power, energy, fire and life safety, lighting and security. What makes Desigo CC unique is its comprehensive structure: a single integrated platform for automatic interactions that is open, efficient, flexible, and easy to use.

With personalised, actionable information at your fingertips, you can better optimise your facilityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s energy and operational efficiency, allowing you to increase productivity and enhance decision-making. It is the future of facility management. Get ready for the official Australian launch of Desigo CC in 2015. To find out more or register your interest, visit www.siemens.com.au/desigocc

www.siemens.com.au/desigocc

| GREEN BUILDINGS – HVAC In offices that let in significant amounts of sunlight, blinds that can be operated by staff members are imperative to reduce cooling load

THERMAL COMFORT, HVAC, SUSTAINABILITY AND HUMAN INTERVENTION In many office buildings around Australia, there are conversations happening about the temperature. There employees using space heaters in the middle of summer because the air conditioner is cranked up too high, and staff members sweating it out in winter as a result of an overresponsive thermostat. Not only do these scenarios create discomfort for workers, which can lead to inefficiencies in productivity, illness, fatigue and unhappy staff members, but the building is also almost certainly using far more energy than is necessary in over-cooling or over-heating its spaces.

trangely, despite the more radical swings in current global temperatures compared to 100 years ago, human beings now tolerate a narrower range of temperatures than their forebears. Heating and cooling are omnipresent, and are readily used at even the slightest hint of higher- or lower-than-average temperatures. Thermal comfort is subjective, and depends upon each individual’s preferences, as well as their choice of clothing, and activity during work hours (active workers in general prefer a cooler environment than sedentary workers). Perception of thermal comfort is also variable, depending on air temperature, air speed, floor temperature, sun penetration and ventilation. As heating, ventilation and air conditioning accounts for anywhere between 40 and 70 per cent of a building’s energy usage, it’s important to consider the ways in which you can more effectively heat and cool your building, while keeping your workers happy and comfortable. By doing this, you will find ways to reduce the load on your HVAC system, resulting in energy and cost savings. WorkSafe Victoria recommends that the temperature inside a workplace be kept somewhere between 20 and 26 degrees Celsius, depending on the time of year. It is, however, advisable to set temperatures at the lower end during winter, and the higher end during summer. For the most comfortable indoor environment, set the temperature to 18-20 degrees Celsius in winter, and 24-25 degrees Celsius in summer. According to Sustainability Victoria,

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GREEN BUILDINGS – HVAC |

In order to achieve an adaptive thermal comfort model, the building must be designed with openable windows, and without any mechanical cooling system every one degree temperature increase in winter will increase energy use by 15 per cent, and every one degree temperature decrease in summer will increase energy use by 10 per cent. Adaptive models of thermal comfort assume that building occupants will adjust their behaviour according to the temperature and its impact upon their own levels of comfort. The elements that employees can control include operable windows, clothing and shade, and it’s been shown that facilitating worker control increases tolerances across the board for a wider range of temperatures than they would tolerate did they not have control over some elements of the indoor climate. For example, if, during summer, workers can open windows and use individual fans at their workstations to establish a breeze, which lowers the perceived level of heat within the building, they are more likely to tolerate the higher temperature. This also connects the workers with the outdoors, which has been shown to increase the wellbeing of people working in office buildings. In order to achieve an adaptive thermal comfort model, the building must be designed with openable windows, and without any mechanical cooling system. In today’s built environment, this is a less common scenario than the alternative: sealed buildings with mechanical HVAC systems operating continuously. In these types of buildings, facilities managers must devise heating and cooling plans that keep building occupants comfortable while minimising energy use. There are a number of elements that will contribute to a successful plan for energyefficient HVAC systems.

Despite adaptive thermal comfort being less attainable in such a building, building occupants can still be called upon to aid in maintaining a comfortable environment while being aware of the necessity to reduce energy use. If employees are encouraged to keep unused spaces closed off, ensure that lights are turned off in vacant areas, and adopt practices that minimise heat gain within a building, the load on the HVAC system will be less. Fans can still be used to lower perceived temperature within a workspace, and staff members should adjust window shades to minimise heat from direct sunlight. These will allow the building manager to set the temperature of the HVAC system one or two degrees higher, thereby saving energy and costs. Other strategies include setting HVAC systems to a timer to ensure that when the building is unoccupied the system is not running. The filters should be regularly maintained, and scheduled maintenance of the HVAC system itself is vital, and could achieve savings of up to 10 per cent of the building’s overall space conditioning energy usage. Machines can do the work, but humans can help them along. If adaptive thermal comfort is possible in your facility, make sure that all of the workers in the building are educated about the system, and that they embrace it. If your building is mechanically cooled and heated, keep occupants abreast of what they can do to assist with energy efficiency, while emphasising that their comfort is of paramount importance. With the correct approach, thermal comfort can be a win for everyone.

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SPONSORED ARTICLE

APAC replacement rooftops – because there’s nothing like a perfect fit!

f you have an APAC rooftop unit, chances are that it has almost reached the end of its operating life. The question is: how can you quickly and easily replace these popular units with something that’s just as dependable, but far more cost-efficient? The answer comes from a Perth-based company that specialises in building air conditioning systems for areas with some of the harshest conditions in the world – our outback mining communities. So it should come as no surprise that the name of the company is Specialized Engineering. And as Chris Miller, the Managing Director of Specialized, says, ‘If our units can perform in the mines, 24/7 and with proven high efficiency, imagine what they will achieve in the city.’

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480mm

A reputation carved out in the Pilbara There are no tougher work conditions on earth than those in Western Australia’s Pilbara. But that’s where Specialized Engineering has established its reputation for superior, reliable and robust products. Now, Specialized can apply that same expertise to virtually any application, as an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) of high-efficiency packaged commercial and industrial air conditioning units.

990mm

Specialized is the perfect match for APAC The benefits of replacing an APAC unit with Specialized are hard to ignore. Specialized not only offers the same footprint, but it also uses the same ductwork, mains power and controls, so there are no costly modifications to worry about. The Specialized commercial range includes 15 models, from 12-kilowatt to 95-kilowatt capacity. (There’s even a free cross-reference chart that gives you direct replacement equivalents covering most existing APAC models at specializedengineering.com.au.) Furthermore, Specialized is very competitively priced, and, in most cases, the old APAC unit can be swapped over with the new Specialized one on the same day.

Based in Perth, the company is 100 per cent Australianowned, and it is expanding. But with ultra-high efficiency ratings right through the range (every model exceeds the minimum energy performance standards), it appears that Specialized has the attributes and product range to shake up the market. In fact, as Chris Miller himself says, ‘We have the product to become truly international by first expanding into the eastern states of Australia, followed by South-East Asia and the Middle East.’

SPECIALIZED

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The Specialized advantage: 3 low installation costs: a perfect match to the APAC unit size, footprint, ductwork, mains power and controls 3 reduced energy costs: ultra-high efficiency ratings and up to 31 per cent energy savings compared to existing APAC equivalent unit 3 low cost of ownership: high-efficiency direct-drive fans ensure low maintenance costs 3 low noise: fans that slow down during low ambient for less noise 3 Australian-made: engineered, built and operating in Australia’s toughest conditions.

Before you melt, replace your outdated unit with Specialized air conditioning.

Right now, roof top units everywhere are reaching their “use by” dates. But you can replace them quickly and easily with an exceptionally efficient solution from Specialized Engineering. In fact, Specialized systems are a perfect replacement for APAC units as they use exactly the same footprint, duct work, mains power and controls, so there are no expensive modification costs. And with a pedigree that’s made it the miner’s choice in demanding locations like the Pilbara, you know Specialized will function seamlessly in virtually any commercial application. Find out more at specializedengineering.com.au

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| CASE STUDY

HARMONY, TRANQUILLITY AND SERENITY IN LEARNING WRITTEN IN COLLABORATION WITH SANDRA MARSH, NAN TIEN INSTITUTE On 1 March 2015, the new Nan Tien Institute in Wollongong opened its doors to students, marking the occasion with a cultural and community celebration that attracted thousands of guests from the local region, as well as further afield. This opening heralded the beginning of what is proposed to become the Illawaraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s second university in years to come. The Institute is the legacy of Nan Tien Temple, and is the first government-accredited tertiary institution grounded in Buddhist values and wisdom.

he ethos of Nan Tien Institute is to provide tertiary education in an environment that is underpinned by Buddhist philosophies of learning. These include holistic learning that nurtures studentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; wellbeing; an environment of

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harmony, tranquillity and serenity to enhance learning outcomes; quality education based on international standards and traditions; and understanding and respect of various cultures and religions.

The Institute is the legacy of Nan Tien Temple, and is the first government-accredited tertiary institution grounded in Buddhist values and wisdom

CASE STUDY |

The Nan Tien Institute was designed by award-winning international architects Woods Bagot, whose past projects include the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, the Stadio Della Roma in Rome, and the Chongqing Tall Tower in China, among countless other high-profile projects. John Prentice, Woods Bagot Senior Associate, says that the new building’s aesthetic references some Buddhist ideals. ‘In keeping with the Humanistic Buddhist teachings of Fo Guang Shan, the architecture avoids hierarchy, is modern, and values the “spaces in between”, as well as providing a neutral environment devoid of excess and materialism,’ he says. The four distinct building pods of the new campus house an administration centre, library, faculty and academic offices, teaching and lecture theatres, a dining area, and on-site parking, all of which have been integrated into the overall design brief – which is a unique one, inspired by the lotus flower. The lotus was the inspiration for the project as it is ‘a pristine, beautiful bloom that arises from the mud,’ says Woods Bagot. The flower was chosen to reflect the origins of the site, a former garbage tip adjacent to the Nan Tien Temple, which was bought from the local council for one

The [lotus] flower was chosen to reflect the origins of the site, a former garbage tip adjacent to the Nan Tien Temple, which was bought from the local council for one Australian dollar

Australian dollar. The economic and social benefits of cleaning up and re-using this previous wasteland are significant, and follow four years of design and construction work, including a multi-million-dollar remediation, financed and conducted by Nan Tien Temple. As well as its reflection of this site, the lotus flower is also an important icon in Buddhism, representing a variety of principles, including fortune, purification and faithfulness. The design required engineers to use materials in new ways. An example of this can be seen in the use of the primary building material; distinctive curved concrete walls dominate a great deal of the structure

– 169 precast concrete panels, with weights of up to 14 tonnes, were used in the construction of the Institute. The external concrete walls sweep around internal spaces; timber ceilings lend a sense of organic tranquillity; and enormous glass panels give light and life to the structure, reflecting the holistic nature of the educational facility. Due to the unique location, along with the novel use of existing building materials, planning for this project took a significant amount of time and effort. More than 15 years of planning, design and construction were required before the building’s opening on 1 March 2015. There were more than 4000 drawings made both before and

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| CASE STUDY

throughout construction, which is a relatively large amount for this size of building, but the myriad drawings were certainly required to accommodate the complexity of the project. Construction of the Institute was undertaken by Richard Crookes Construction, a New South Wales-based company with more than 40 years’ construction experience throughout New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory. The building itself is the first stage of the project, with the next stage introducing a bridge that will span the F6 Princes Motorway, connecting the Institute to the Nan Tien Temple.

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...requiring attention was the potential of a contamination risk – the entire site was encapsulated in a membrane, and piles that had to be driven 12 feet into the rock below were done so carefully, so as not to rupture the membrane

CASE STUDY |

Before building started, Richard Crookes Construction had to consider a variety of environmental issues, including, most importantly, the landfill’s subsiding and compaction expectations. Also requiring attention was the potential of a contamination risk – the entire site was encapsulated in a membrane, and piles that had to be driven 12 feet into the rock below were done so carefully, so as not to rupture the membrane. Despite all of these challenges, the construction project took only 52 weeks, which is a quick time frame for this type of

construction, compared to other projects of this size. This is the first stage of a wider education project conceived by the Nan Tien Temple and the Fo Guang Shan Buddhist order. The initial phase will initially cater for 300 students, and future plans are to move towards the Institute’s vision of becoming the Illawarra’s second university, with infrastructure that caters for 3000 students. NTI has been educating students from its temporary Nan Tien Temple campus since 2011, and has graduated a number of students to date with Masters, Graduate

Diplomas and Graduate Certificates in Applied Buddhist Studies. It has also launched a new health faculty with postgraduate masters programs in health and social wellbeing. In addition, the Institute provides a host of programs in design and development, including a Bachelor of Business, Master of Business Leadership, Master of Intelligent Technology, Masters by Research and a Doctor of Philosophy.

For more information, visit www.nantien.edu.au

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SPONSORED ARTICLE

Intelligence that’s built in

n a modern building, technology is behind every wall and under every button. Ensuring that people can move around smoothly and efficiently is not about individual systems, but how they work as a unified whole. ‘Property owners and developers are under increasing pressure to ensure that their tenants can move around buildings as quickly and comfortably as possible, and simultaneously provide improved security and access control. At the same time, building users expect to be able to move through various public spaces smoothly and intuitively. KONE People Flow Intelligence solutions address these demands,’ says Ari Virtanen, Senior Vice President KONE Access Control and Integrated Solutions. KONE – a global leader in the elevator and escalator industry – has a philosophy grounded in integration. This means an effortless experience for users, and easier building management for property managers and owners through flexible solutions that add real value. Four key areas – one suite of solutions KONE People Flow Intelligence covers access control, destination guidance, equipment monitoring and information communication. KONE’s scalable access solutions connect elevators with building access points. User-friendly KONE destination solutions provide clear passenger guidance and enable industry-leading elevator traffic handling performance. Inside elevators and on landings, KONE information screens can be

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used to communicate a wide variety of information to tenants and visitors. Finally, KONE monitoring solutions enable easy remote monitoring and configuration of elevators and escalators from a single location. Everything you need from one partner Building needs are constantly changing. Tenants come and go, population numbers vary, and renovations may add new areas, entrances, or even floors. KONE’s end-to-end solutions not only eliminate the need to coordinate with multiple suppliers, they also offer the flexibility and scalability needed to meet these changing demands. Why work with KONE? 3 User-friendly solutions that ensure smooth people flow, with less waiting and more comfort, in both new and existing buildings. 3 Scalable and flexible solutions that are easily adaptable to meet a building’s changing needs. 3 High-quality, visually consistent accessories and components – designed by KONE’s award-winning inhouse team – improve the appeal of the building lobby and elevators. 3 End-to-end solutions from KONE eliminate the need to coordinate with multiple suppliers, which saves time and costs. For more information, visit www.kone.com.au.

Smart, flexible solutions for the buildings of today â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and tomorrow Quick, comfortable movement combined with reliable security and access control. Meeting these conflicting demands is no easy task. Our answer? KONE People Flow Intelligence â&#x20AC;&#x201C; smart, flexible solutions for access and destination control, information communication and equipment monitoring. www.kone.com.au

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| AUTOMATED DOORS

AN AUTOMATIC WELCOME TO YOUR FACILITY

Doors are not the most glamorous element of facilities management. In fact, not much is said about them at all. You go in, you go out… as long as there’s an opening for people to get through, that’s all you need. Right? Well… yes, but there’s a bit more to it than that.

ue to their frequent use and moving parts, doors are susceptible to wear and degradation, and will, at some stage, require either intensive maintenance or replacement. Regular maintenance and repair can keep a door in good operating condition for many years, but eventually it will be time to look at replacement or modernisation – and this is a great time to assess the functionality of your building’s doors, and what improvements can be made. Automatic doors offer a range of benefits to a facility manager and the occupants of the building.

FACILITY PERSPECTIVES | VOLUME 9 NUMBER 1

The first benefit is accessibility. Opening doors can be a source of difficulty for people with a disability, especially if they use a wheelchair. Manual doors often require a large amount of force to push or pull open, while certain handles, knobs and levers are not usable for people with particular disabilities. Automatic doors can offer a variety of options for accessibility, including sensor mats, mounted sensors above the door frame, wall-mounted touch sensors or hand-held remote controls. This is assuming that the automated door installed offers a

AUTOMATED DOORS |

fully automated door opening mechanism. Alternatives include power-assisted doors, which automatically activate to augment the force applied by the user as the doors begin to open. If you’re installing automated doors in your facility, you must ensure that there is obvious signage, so that people approaching your facility know to expect the door to open automatically; this will ensure that visitors are not startled by the door opening without warning. If an automatic opener requires some physical input from the user, that information should be prominently displayed to facilitate ease of use. High-tech automated door installations have audible communication systems to alert users of the operating and safety information. Another benefit of automated door systems is energy conservation – an important consideration in today’s built environment. Automatic doors only open when someone approaches, which means that they are never left open accidentally. Automatic doors can effectively form an air

lock, which is valuable when HVAC systems are in operation; keeping the cool or heated air inside the building, and minimising overload on the system. If there is a high level of foot traffic through your facility’s doors, consider a vestibule or air curtain to ensure that the HVAC system’s operability is not affected by the door being open for extended periods of time. In addition, automatic doors can assist in people flow, particularly in a facility in which intermittent funnelling might occur, such as entertainment or sports facilities. Traffic is not halted by the need to open doors manually or make space for swinging doors, so the flow is kept steady. Another important function that a facility’s doors serve is security, and automation can ensure that your facility is impermeable. Full-powered automatic doors can simply be switched from automated function to keypad and pin security access, or swipe cards. It’s important from an OHS perspective that automated doors still allow safe egress in the case of an emergency. Most automatic doors

have emergency modes programmed into the system, so that manual exit is possible at all times. The ideal outcome of installing automated door systems is that nobody even notices them – you want people to enter and exit your building without a second thought about how the doors are working. That said, ensure that the doors that you choose to install create the correct aesthetic to adhere to your company’s branding and image. There are many different styles of automatic door, and if you choose the correct door, the impression of your company that will give a visitor from the very first minute they arrive will be a positive one. You see, there is more to a door than you might have previously thought. A door upgrade is an opportunity to ensure that all visitors to your facility are granted easy access, as well as to promote the corporate and social values of your organisation. Give it some thought.

FACILITY PERSPECTIVES | VOLUME 9 NUMBER 1

| HEALTH CARE

AUSTRALIA’S FIRST DIGITAL HOSPITAL BY KANE GROSE Health care has taken a huge leap forward in Queensland’s Hervey Bay, with St Stephen’s Hospital recently becoming Australia’s first fully integrated digital hospital.

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HEALTH CARE |

s part of UnitingCare Health, St Stephen’s Hospital is a private healthcare provider owned by the Uniting Church, and is the only not-for-profit provider of private hospital services on the Fraser Coast. Richard Royle, Executive Director of UnitingCare Health, says that the new stateof-the-art facility will transform the quality of health care available to the Fraser Coast’s growing population. ‘The “hospital of the future” has 96 beds and five operating theatres, with plans to eventually expand to 180 beds,’ says Royle. St Stephen’s recently became the first hospital in Australia to achieve Stage 6 certification from the Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS), on the Analytics Medical Electronic Medical

Records Adoption Model (EMRAM). The requirements for achieving Stage 6 are many, including the hospital having

established clear goals for the deployment and use of clinical information technology to improve patient safety, quality and efficiency.

The advanced, fully integrated technologies that are offered through a digitised hospital improve staff productivity and satisfaction through improved efficiency, the ability to spend more time with patients, and improved tools

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| HEALTH CARE

The $96 million project began operations in mid-October 2014. Clinical services provided at the new digital hospital include: 33 ophthalmology 33 low-risk surgical paediatric services 33 urology 33 endoscopy 33 general medical 33 coronary care 33 sleep laboratory services 33 respiratory medicine 33 more complex general surgery to higher acuity patients with higher co-morbidities 33 gynaecology 33 colorectal surgery 33 orthopaedics. The facility will also include a number of other new features, such as a highdependency unit on each of the three floors, five theatres, two nurse stations on each of

Doctors and members of the medical staff can document findings and observations electronically using multiple types of devices in the patient care area, and the technologies can also track equipment and patients electronically the three levels, a bariatric room on each level, and private patient rooms. In its departure from the traditional administration of a healthcare facility, St Stephen’s is dedicated to embracing available technologies that will allow for improvements in quality and safety

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through improved access to information, increasing adherence with standard processes, increased audit trails, and better documentation. The digital technologies will assist not only the healthcare professionals, but also the patients, whose safety and overall experience

HEALTH CARE |

will be improved. The operation of a hospital such as this does not just involve the implementation of technology, but it also transforms healthcare delivery. The advanced, fully integrated technologies that are offered through a digitised hospital improve staff productivity and satisfaction through improved efficiency, the ability to spend more time with patients, and improved tools. St Stephens is embracing a ‘paperlight’ environment. The digital hospital automatically feeds key elements of patient data directly from monitoring systems and diagnostic providers to the electronic medical record (EMR). This saves time and helps to avoid errors in documentation. Electronic databases are populated with medical records and care pathways, and there’s decision support for physicians based on international best practice; this aids with provision of the best possible medical care, and better patient outcomes. The paperlight system has also eliminated handwritten orders and notes, which results in less frequent errors as a result of difficulties translating handwriting. Patients’ information is readily available, and real-time alerts for important information, such as a patient’s allergies, medications and abnormal vitals, create a more responsive environment. Doctors and members of the medical staff can document findings and observations electronically using multiple types of devices in the patient care area, and the technologies can also

track equipment and patients electronically, reducing the risk of loss or theft of expensive equipment, as well as the risk of patients – particularly those who may be more susceptible to disorientation due to condition or medications – getting lost. The automated system ensures that all resources are linked – this means that medical consultants, other UnitingCare Health and public hospitals, and diagnostic providers such as pathology and radiology, have automatic access to one another. This facilitates better linkages across the continuum of care, with information flowing between public and private healthcare providers, including orders, tests, referrals and discharges. In addition to this, linkages to universities and metropolitan hospitals provide access to training and to additional expertise. On a patient level, the system provides entertainment such as television, internet and movies, and it also allows patients access to educational materials to prepare for discharge from the hospital. Patients (and the wider community) also have access to medical portals through the digital system. As a regional hospital, the facility provides many benefits for the community at large, including greater employment opportunities and the ability to attract and retain healthcare workers in the region, as well as community pride in having a first-class showcase healthcare facility. There is now the infrastructure and technology in place for a larger range of

UnitingCare Health partnered with Cerner Corporation Pty Limited to deliver the electronic medical record and medical device integration that makes St Stephen’s Hospital Hervey Bay unique in regional healthcare

local healthcare services. The St Stephen’s Hospital eHealth initiative also provides the Fraser Coast community with linkages to other healthcare providers, including Queensland Health, pathology and radiology providers, specialist services at UnitingCare Health’s metropolitan hospital, and local general practitioners and specialists. UnitingCare Health partnered with Cerner Corporation Pty Limited to deliver the electronic medical record and medical device integration that makes St Stephen’s Hospital Hervey Bay unique in regional health care. In order to achieve the targets that have been set, St Stephen’s has installed a huge amount of physical infrastructure. Some of the technical aspects of the hospital include: 33 more than 2100 data points throughout the facility 33 more than 100 kilometres of data cabling 33 11 communication rooms 33 one main data centre 33 approximately 150 wireless access points, and the capacity to add more as demand increases 33 approximately 1000 devices that connect and communicate data via the hospital network 33 dual power supplies for all network switching equipment, in case of a device power supply failure 33 dual power feeds for all communication rooms and data centre; in the event of a failure, equipment will continue to run on the redundant power feed 33 two generators to maintain continuity of power to core technology equipment 33 video conferencing capability in the operating theatres and other areas of the hospital 33 extensive IT security that allows only authorised devices to connect to the hospital network. The Hon. Peter Dutton MP, Minister for Health and Minister for Sport, says that St Stephen’s ‘has not only transformed the level of health care available to residents of the Fraser Coast, but raised the bar in terms of healthcare provision across the country’.

FACILITY PERSPECTIVES | VOLUME 9 NUMBER 1

| INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

THE FUTURE OF FM SOFTWARE BY KRISTIANA GREENWOOD, DIRECTOR, FM INNOVATIONS

It’s no secret that, in Australia, the average age of a facilities manager is 47. Whether this is good or bad, the reality is that a whole new generation of facilities operators are starting to make themselves known. There’s no doubt that with the younger generation comes the expectation of smart technology, and the FM software market is changing rapidly on our shores.

hink about how fast technology has changed over the past 10 years – did you realise that the iPhone was only invented in 2007, and the iPad in 2010? At that pace of growth, it’s hardly surprising that expectations are getting higher when it comes to the smarts within FM software. So, where is it going, and who is shaping the new FM software market? The last FM software survey done by the FMA in 2012 showed that an alarming number of facilities managers are still using spreadsheets to manage very large asset portfolios. These are not the influencers in the market, and this way of managing a facility has to end as the rest of the market gets on board with new technology. The influencers are now coming from unexpected places. For example, the trend for building developers to become involved in the operational management of the buildings that they construct has had an influence on shaping FM software. In the past, developers were only interested in completing an as-built asset and, as such, they weren’t focused on how it might run operationally over the next 10–20 years. Today, canny developers will look at an end-to-end solution, from design through to facilities management. As FM gains traction in Australia, the astute facilities manager is looking

for innovative technology that will streamline their FM business, as well as enhance stakeholder engagement. They are looking for smart ways to gather the data, because – as anyone in FM will attest to – data rules. Data provides the history, the records, the reasons and the answers. Mobile apps and sexy technology appeal to the crowds, so the obvious step is to migrate FM functionality into mobile technology. Tenant engagement is also becoming more important, especially in residential properties. The ability to offer social media to tenants through the same portal as they raise their maintenance requests is not merely a pipedream. This method of engagement enables the facilities manager to survey stakeholders in real time, all the time. So, imagine that you now have stakeholder engagement, and that everyone is reporting maintenance issues simply and logically by using their mobile phones or their web portal. Where is this data going? It is going into the cloud – literally. The new FM software platform must be the cloud. This is the future, there is no doubt. Some don’t like it – they are afraid of it;

FACILITY PERSPECTIVES | VOLUME 9 NUMBER 1

however, the capability and capacity of cloud solutions far outweigh an in-house implementation, and it’s only getting better. There are other obvious benefits from implementing smart FM solutions, such as productivity gains and analytical reporting on real data sourced through ingenious means; and whether you are ready for change or not, the fact is that change is coming.

This article is written by Kristiana Greenwood, Director at FM Innovations. FM Innovations is an Australian FM software development company dedicated to implementing smart ways to reshape the future of FM software, and how we manage our facilities. The change is coming. www.fminnovations.com.au Phone: 03 9600 1646

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Why users of real estate and FM software are putting their heads in the cloud

of running under-performing systems. Using SaaS, however, any property department – regardless of size – can now have access to the security, compliance, transparency, scalability and reliability of the real estate and FM systems that they actually need. Studies show that SaaS users enjoy many extra benefits when compared with the traditional model of licensing software and hosting the application in-house. These benefits typically include lower upfront costs, no capital outlay, pay-asyou-go operational expenditure, minimal internal IT resources and infrastructure requirement, no annual software support fees, and rapid deployment. With few exceptions, the benefits of SaaS clearly outweigh the traditional self-hosted approach. And the continual improvement in cloud computing and tuneable on-demand network bandwidth is sure to see many more users of real estate and FM systems putting their heads in the cloud in the years ahead.

ith technology companies continuing to make significant advances in cloud computing, more organisations are now putting a growing emphasis on running real estate and FM systems in a Software-as-aService (SaaS) environment. Research indicates that organisations that use SaaS are already enjoying a substantially lower total cost of ownership by consuming software through a usage and leasing model, rather than a traditional licence model. Gartner, a leading technology advisory company, have said, ‘The clear trend away from complex, on-premises deployment, and toward SaaS is facilitating a more granular, less costly and less resource-intensive project. We believe SaaS’s low upfront commitment is allowing many organisations who lack a “critical mass” to begin with a relatively small, low-cost and low-risk module that attacks the greatest pain point, which is often real estate.’ Of course, any organisation that is planning to implement new software will face the dilemma of whether to self-host the application or employ a cloud-based SaaS solution. Historically, organisations have tended to buy technology based on what they estimated they might need over the next three or four years. If they bought too little, they ran the risk

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FACILITY PERSPECTIVES | VOLUME 9 NUMBER 1

23/01/2015 12:52:30

FACILITY PERSPECTIVES | VOLUME 9 NUMBER 1

| SECURITY

TIME TO TURN UP THE HEAT ON SCADA VENDORS

BY PHIL KERNICK, NATIONAL DIRECTOR OF INFORMATION SECURITY, CQR Vendors of supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems are approaching the end of an era. At least, I hope so.

e are all too familiar with the information-security issues related to aged SCADA infrastructure. I expect that most facilities owners and managers know that the antiquated computers and processors driving process control systems, manufacturing facilities and utilities are vulnerable to cyber attack. Unfortunately, the same problem exists with new SCADA systems. SCADA vendors continue to peddle systems with security features firmly stuck in the 1990s, but I believe that they will soon face significant pressure from purchasers as legislation grows teeth, and as customers and shareholders become less accepting of the consequences of poor information security management. While I have been critical of the Privacy Laws introduced last year, they signal the start of things to come. It’s all very grey and

FACILITY PERSPECTIVES | VOLUME 9 NUMBER 1

lacks rigour, but at least it’s a step in the right direction. Currently, organisations face substantial fines if they can’t prove that they have taken ‘reasonable steps’ to safeguard their systems from cyber attacks. This law places a certain degree of pressure on the purchasers of SCADA infrastructure and equipment. It’s one thing to lay the blame on existing SCADA systems, but it will be much harder to demonstrate to the Commissioner that due care was taken in an incident involving newly acquired systems and infrastructure. Companies, organisations and governments cannot continue to commission new systems and infrastructure that they know represents a risk to security. If we also see mandatory data breach notification being implemented in the nottoo-distant future, I really can’t see the purchasers of SCADA systems continuing

SECURITY |

to accept the risks associated with archaic SCADA security features. Purchasers will demand a very high standard of security in control systems, and I would encourage them to insist on this now, rather than waiting. There is a lot of rhetoric about the risks that SCADA operating systems present, and many people question whether SCADA security is worth worrying about. It’s true that we’re not seeing all of our traffic lights turned to green as part of some tyrant’s diabolical plan, but we need to move away from Hollywood-inspired scenarios and understand the real risks. The truth is that malware and hackers are targeting SCADA and critical infrastructure, but we tend not to hear about such incidents because there is no benefit in

anyone disclosing this information. A survey conducted by Unisys in partnership with the Ponemon Institute in the United States last year demonstrated that nearly 70 per cent of oil and gas, utility, energy, and manufacturing companies reported at least one security

breach that led to a loss of confidential information or a disruption of operations in the preceding 12 months. At the same time, only one-quarter of respondents ranked security as a top-five strategic priority.

The truth is that malware and hackers are targeting SCADA and critical infrastructure, but we tend not to hear about such incidents because there is no benefit in anyone disclosing this information

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FACILITY PERSPECTIVES | VOLUME 9 NUMBER 1

| SECURITY

We also know that attackers are more about silent control and subversion, rather than noisy denial of service. There usually isn’t a motive for the Hollywood-style attack. Instead, SCADA systems are the target of individuals and parties who perceive some material benefit from interfering with the system, or who use it as an entry point to extract information. Industrial spies and foreign intelligence agents extract sensitive information that they can use to their advantage in business tenders, for example. Disgruntled staff and hacktivists are also possible perpetrators. Both want revenge on what they regard to be ‘moral grounds’. The threat is real. In December last year, a blast furnace at a German steel mill was damaged in a cyber attack. The attackers stole login details through a clever phishing exercise, and used this information to gain access to the mill’s control systems. The attack was designed to inflict as much damage as possible to the equipment and infrastructure. The important thing to note is that the attackers demonstrated significant technical prowess, and knowledge of the company’s systems and the steel manufacturing process in

general. It’s clear that it wasn’t a random attack by some crew of vindictive geeks looking for kicks. It was a targeted attack on the profitability of the company by people with a relationship of some sort with that company, and a very distinct reason for doing what they did. In 2012, two power plants in the United States were affected by malware attacks, which shut them down for weeks. The malware infected each plant’s system after it was innocently introduced into the systems by a technician with an infected USB stick. Ten years earlier, the ‘Slammer’ worm was responsible for disabling a safety monitoring system at the Davis-Besse nuclear power plant in Ohio.

Late last year, I spoke at the Australian Information Security Association’s annual conference and heard from a fellow panellist that a SCADA system within his organisation was found to have more than 300 different kinds of malware attached to it. If these cases are anything to go by, it would seem that we are not going anywhere fast in terms of SCADA security. An insecure SCADA system is akin to an open door. It either allows the bad guys in so that they can take control of the system, or it gives them access to sensitive and important information. It’s not government’s responsibility to fix the problem – only purchasers and vendors can address the issue. If they don’t, they’ll continue to learn the hard way.

ABOUT CQR CQR is a specialist in information security that is independent and that takes a strategic approach. It is based in Adelaide, and has a national and global reach, with offices in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, and in Oxford, United Kingdom. CQR specialist services include vulnerability assessment, business continuity, penetration testing, on-site business information security, compliance, risk analysis, access control, payment card and industry data security.

FACILITY PERSPECTIVES | VOLUME 9 NUMBER 1

SPONSORED ARTICLE

Fit for the challenge? Skills enhancement and refresher training – Are your employee’s skills and knowledge current?

ital to an effective and efficient safety and security service is an experienced team that has completed a comprehensive training program tailored to each facility. Skills enhancement and refresher training keep employees motivated and their knowledge current, preparing them to confidently respond to any situation, emergency, threat or other challenge with minimal disruption to the day-today operation of the facility. Well-trained and motivated people are the foundation of success, and refresher training demonstrates commitment to your employees’ professional performance and development. The purpose of a formal training program in our industry is to reinforce the importance of service within the frontline role of a security officer. Did you know? The minimum requirement for applicants joining the security industry is an entry-level certification (Certificate II Security Operations), with no formal requirement to complete future training in order to maintain a licence. The definitive outcomes of refresher training are mutually beneficial; it means that training is kept up to date and is inclusive of any regulatory or statutory legislative changes, ensuring that your people are best positioned to deliver the highest level of service to customers, while offering them a challenging and rewarding career. Ideally, an annual training program will include a range of approaches, such as theory-based learning, role-plays and short-answer assessments to ensure that the underpinning of skills and knowledge are learnt and will relate back to the employee’s place of work. Contextualised training provides a real-life, outcomes-based and best-practice approach to the training of staff and their ability to implement their training under periods of heightened activity. ‘As a people business, it is imperative that we focus on ensuring that our employees are the most competent people they can be,’ says Martha Travis, General Manager, People and Culture at MSS Security. ‘Our competitors also have people, technology and attractive uniforms, but for us, to truly differentiate ourselves in the market, we need to ensure that our employees have up-to-date skills in their technical area, as well as displaying exceptional customer service in their day-to-day operations.’ MSS Security has more than 5500 employees, so ensuring current skills can be a constant challenge. Ms Travis says, ‘The only way we can keep up is through the use of online tools such as our noticeboards, learning management system, employee portal and consultative processes. This supplements the face-to-face and on-the-job training that is delivered across our business every day.’ As a Registered Training Organisation, MSS Security’s award-winning People and Culture division leads the in-house

FACILITY PERSPECTIVES | VOLUME 9 NUMBER 1

Training Academy. The division manages employee training and, in addition to the extensive library of role-specific training available, they also offer various forms of mandatory and elective refresher courses – one being the Security Officer Refresher Training course. MSS Security offers a range of nationally accredited qualifications at no cost to its employees or its clients, providing further upskilling and knowledge while instilling confidence.

For further information, please visit us at www.msssecurity.com.au.

FACILITY PERSPECTIVES | VOLUME 9 NUMBER 1

| SECURITY

LOOKING AT THE BIGGER PICTURE – CCTV SOLUTIONS FOR LARGE FACILITIES BY JOANNA BURKE, GLOBAL ACCOUNT MANAGER – PACIFIC, TYCO FIRE & SECURITY

Many people may think of CCTV cameras primarily as a crime prevention and security solution; however, the benefits are much broader. Organisations are increasingly recognising the value of surveillance cameras to help address a range of operational issues, including monitoring workplace compliance, health and safety, access control, traffic and crowd control, and even staff productivity.

hen it comes to large facilities such as commercial buildings, manufacturing sites, entertainment complexes and shopping centres, advancements in CCTV technology have seen its use extended to many areas; for instance, many transport hubs are now using cameras to monitor passenger safety, while some amusement park and entertainment centre operators use cameras for crowd control. Likewise, banks no longer just use cameras for security purposes, but also to verify large monetary transactions. CCTV cameras can also be a vital resource for monitoring staff safety and compliance; however, companies must consider the CCTV Code of Ethics. The law requires employers to inform staff members if they are using CCTV cameras, and to explain the reasons that the cameras are in place. Cameras should not to be installed purely for the sake of observing staff – there must be

FACILITY PERSPECTIVES | VOLUME 9 NUMBER 1

justification for their presence; for example, monitoring work, health and safety policies, overseeing the operation of machinery to help avoid the risk of injury, or watching out for lone workers who may be located in isolated or remote areas. It is a company’s responsibility to ensure that all staff members understand the risks and hazards present in their workplace environment, and know how to manage them. It is also important for a company to consult on and communicate its surveillance policy and procedures so that employees fully understand how CCTV footage is to be used. If installing surveillance for the first time, consider involving staff in the initial stages of installation to ensure that they feel part of the process and understand the reasons that a monitoring system is being installed. Signage must also be clearly visible in and around the areas where cameras are present.

SECURITY |

CCTV camera installation Before installing any surveillance system, it is important to identify the issues that need to be addressed; for instance, what and where are the risks to the site and its occupants? This will help determine the type of CCTV system required, and the appropriate level of image quality. For instance, do you need to monitor fine details such as facial features, or capture vehicle number plates? This is where a professional security expert with the appropriate qualifications and licences can help. Such experts can assess the facilityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s environment and provide guidance on things that can easily be overlooked, such as the level of lighting and the positioning of the cameras. Many large facilities today are migrating from analogue to digital video technology, where footage can be stored on a networked video recorder. Internet protocol (IP) cameras operate over the internet through a local area network (LAN),

and can stream footage directly to a server. Footage is stored either on the premises or at an off-site location, such as a security monitoring facility. The required period to store footage is determined by the business, and cameras can be preset to record automatically at specific times of the day, or can be activated to record when they detect movement. IP cameras can also be used to facilitate a public viewing platform, either through a public screen or through an internet connection for the public to view via a computer or through a smart phone.

Integrated CCTV technology For compliance and safety purposes, integrated CCTV technology can also be used to provide an advanced access control solution for facilities, including factories and businesses that operate in hazardous environments. For instance, integrated

access control using CCTV helps to ensure that machinery is only being operated by authorised staff, as this can be backed up by monitored surveillance footage should an incident occur. Facial recognition systems are continuing to advance. This technology has proved to be a valuable resource for sensitive business operations, such as at airports and law courts, and its use as a mass surveillance solution is one that we can look forward to in the not-too-distant future. Camera recognition technology is already widely used to count the number of people in a given area. Human shape recognition technology can be used by large facilities to track crowd control and behaviour; for example, shopping centres use people-counters to monitor customer traffic and shopper behaviour, and the data is then analysed for marketing and operational purposes.

FACILITY PERSPECTIVES | VOLUME 9 NUMBER 1

| SECURITY

Requirements The use of cameras must comply with all relevant Australian laws, including privacy, employment and specific legislation, such as the Workplace Surveillance Act 2005 (NSW). Legal advice should be sought to ensure that cameras comply with all relevant requirements.

There are also licensing requirements relating to the sale, installation and monitoring of CCTV cameras. Licensing enforcement agencies are individual in each state and territory; therefore, you should check with the local enforcement agency or the Australian Security Industry Association Limited (ASIAL) for appropriate licensing requirements.

About ADT Security ADT Security is the world’s largest electronic security company. ADT Security’s products include alarm systems and integrated security applications that link access control, CCTV, electronic article surveillance and source tagging systems. ADT Security Australia is owned by Tyco. For more information, visit www.adtsecurity.com.au

About TYCO Tyco (NYSE: TYC) is the world’s largest pure-play fire protection and security company. Tyco provides customers around the globe with the latest fire protection and security products and services. For more information, visit the new www.tyco.com.

FACILITY PERSPECTIVES | VOLUME 9 NUMBER 1

The way that facilities use CCTV is growing, and as technology advances, its uses will only increase.

For more information about CCTV solutions for large commercial, leisure, retail and government facilities, visit www.adtsecurity.com.au, or call 131 238.

SPONSORED ARTICLE

Digital door locks: new technology, new applications

echnology has significantly improved the performance of the electronic digital door and locker lock in recent years, so much so that these locks can now perform functions only previously available in more expensive access control systems, but at a fraction of the cost. Audit trail is a great example. Codelocks has developed an electronic digital door lock with audit trail (CL5000AT) capability that allows users to manage access permissions and analyse the data on a computer. The lock can be used in any building where door access needs to be carefully controlled and reviewed; for example, in hospitals and schools. The data management software clearly shows how, where and when access permissions were set up and used. The CL5000AT is ideal for facilities, property and security managers who want to save time programming access permissions and analysing audit trial data from multiple locks under their control. Another development is KL1000 NetCode. This lock allows temporary access to lockers and cabinets via a new webbased application. Codes are generated and sent via SMS text or email. Using time-sensitive access codes is a more

secure way to grant access, as the code will not work outside a designated timeslot. For greater control and convenience visit Codelocks at Total Facilities, 25-26 March 2015, Sydney Exhibition Centre, Stand D71. www.codelocks.com.au

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FACILITY PERSPECTIVES FACILITY PERSPECTIVES| |VOLUME VOLUME9 9 NUMBER NUMBER 11

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| FLOORING

DON’T SLIP UP ON SAFETY BY GEMMA PECKHAM

In a frequently visited facility, there is one building element that, it’s pretty safe to say, all visitors will come into contact with. Unless someone’s driving a hovercraft or levitating, they’re going to come in contact with your floors; either with their feet, or with their mode of transport (such as a wheelchair).

s a facilities manager, it is your job to ensure the safety of every visitor to your building, so flooring should be on your list of priority maintenance and upkeep. A study conducted in 2006 revealed

that, over the lifetime of a building, the greatest health and safety risk was slips, trips and falls. These can cause serious and long-term injuries, and in extreme cases, can lead to reduced quality of life and even reduced lifespan. With those confronting facts at hand (as well as the fact that you, as a facilities manager, are required to meet standards of safety), it makes sense to check your flooring for signs of danger. The risks within a facility vary depending on the type of building; for example, sporting facilities have a variety of different surfaces, from wet poolsides to rebound-ace courts. Medical facilities have standards with regard to hygiene, so types of flooring are restricted, and there are additional risks present when patients are infirm or affected by

FACILITY PERSPECTIVES | VOLUME 9 NUMBER 1

medications that may hinder their balance. In a commercial office building, things are a little more straightforward, but there is still plenty to consider. When flooring is chosen for a building, an informed selection can be made based on the manufacturer’s claims with regard to safety and slip rating – and these are a great place to start. But, given that every facility is different, flooring should also be tested after installation to ensure that its use in particular environments is suitable and safe for the type of traffic that it will see. Slip testing is recommended for every flooring installation in every facility, and it can be carried out by a professional slip tester who is accredited by the National Association of Testing Authorities (NATA).

FLOORING |

There are various tests that can be carried out, depending on the function and surface of your flooring. Below, we show you how some of these tests work.

Wet pendulum slip resistance test Wet surfaces are undoubtedly some of the most dangerous. The wet pendulum test measures the resistance of a flooring surface using a pendulum contraption, which swings a metal boot with a rubber slider across a flooring surface that’s been sprayed with water. The height to which the boot swings after the slider has swung across the surface is measured – the higher the boot kicks, the less resistance the floor surface offers. Though it sounds fairly simple, the mechanism must be set up expertly to ensure a correct reading, so only a trained professional can provide a reading using the wet pendulum test.

Dry floor friction test Danger does not only lurk in wet surfaces. In this test (the only test suitable for dry flooring), a rubber slider is dragged along the dry flooring surface, under the weight of a portable friction tester (the most commonly used machine is called a Tortus). The coefficient of friction is assessed by measuring the force that is required to pull the rubber slider across the floor at a

constant speed for a minimum distance of 800 millimetres. There are two tests performed in perpendicular directions, and the average is used for the results. It’s recommended that dry floor friction tests be carried out regularly, particularly in public spaces such as shopping centres, which support a significant amount of foot traffic – this can alter the surface properties of the flooring, as can regular cleaning and polishing.

slip angle, and the average gradient of the two testers’ slips is recorded. The weight, height, body mass index and gait of the test subjects are used to create a calibration curve for each test subject. Once the surface has been installed in your facility it is no longer possible to perform this test, so the wet pendulum slip resistance test will be your test option after installation.

Oil wet ramp test Wet barefoot inclining platform test If the visitors to your facility are likely to be barefoot on wet surfaces – for example, poolside or in bathrooms – then tests for these conditions must be performed. The wet barefoot inclining platform test determines the angle of inclination at which safe barefoot walking no longer occurs. This test is a little more human than the pendulum and the Tortus; it uses real people with wet feet as its machines. The two adult testers soak their feet for 15 minutes, and are then harnessed to a wet test panel. They first walk forwards at a downhill angle, then backwards, keeping an upright posture. This is carried out twice at each incline, and each time the test is completed without any slipping, the platform’s angle is increased and the test performed again. When a slip is recorded, the test is repeated to confirm the

This test is very similar to the wet barefoot inclining platform test, but it involves a flooring surface panel, as well as test subjects’ shoes (there are three specific brands of rubber shoes that are used for each test), being brushed with engine lubricating oil. The test itself is the same: two testers, two attempts at each incline, and an average being taken to give the test result. While these tests might appear to be simplistic or not scientifically rigorous, the training that professionals undergo to ensure that the measurements taken and ratings given are to standard ensure that testing is incredibly accurate. Again, we stress the importance of using a professional to test your flooring surfaces; it will make all the difference to the safety of your flooring.

FACILITY PERSPECTIVES | VOLUME 9 NUMBER 1

SPONSORED ARTICLE

Maximise your flooring’s potential with Shaw Contract Group

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t Shaw Contract Group we can assist in making flooring selections that help reduce risk and ultimately maximise your flooring budget. We understand that no-one knows a facility better than the facilities manager, and that when flooring doesn’t live up to its expectations it’s your problem. ‘The key to successful flooring in any facility is the correct selection of flooring,’ says Aaron Martin, National Sales Director of Shaw Contract Group. ‘The flooring not only contributes to the aesthetics of a building, it needs to meet the specific performance requirements. ‘Ideally the facility manager should be involved from the outset as they understand how a facility is used, the use and abuse the flooring can expect and as a result can help guide the selection process,’ Aaron says. The experienced team at Shaw Contract Group will work with all facility stakeholders to ensure that the best selection based on design and performance requirements is made. ‘At Shaw Contract Group, we draw on one of the industry’s most extensive ranges across carpet tile and broadloom, as well as a growing resilient range,’ says Aaron. ‘Our range includes collections designed for specific segments, such as office and healthcare, that are designed and constructed with unique features such as backings to withstand the demands of such environments. ‘There are also collections designed for specific areas of facilities, such as walk-off areas. These collections are engineered

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to collect soil and moisture before it comes inside a facility, extending the greater flooring’s life and reducing maintenance. ‘Based on what you’re trying to achieve and the needs of the facility, our team takes into account all attributes in the selection process – construction, backing, yarn type and colour,’ says Aaron. Like other expensive furnishings or equipment, flooring represents a substantial investment for any facility, and deserves adequate care to prolong its life. ‘A flooring maintenance program should be planned and put in place the moment flooring is installed,’ Aaron says. ‘It must be a scheduled program, rather than a random series of reactions to soiling conditions and infrequent cleaning. ‘A maintenance program with a realistic budget ensures flooring lives up to expectations and is not replaced prematurely – ultimately saving on budget in the long term. ‘At Shaw, we can partner with facility managers to develop an appropriate maintenance program that ensures that your flooring’s performance and maintenance budget is maximised,’ Aaron says. Operating Australia-wide, with specification consultants in all major capital cities and warehouses in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and Perth, Shaw Contract Group is here to help you manage your next project. To find out more about Shaw Contract Group visit www.shawcontractgoup.com.au or call 1800 556 302 today.

Department of Environment and Primary Industries, Attwood, Victoria

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HAVE GERMS; WILL TRAVEL BY STEPHEN WHYTE

Next time you’re at your computer, look down at your keyboard. How does it look? Clean? Did you know that most office keyboards harbour more germs than a toilet seat?

ffices are ideal breeding grounds for germs, and studies have shown that viruses can travel at astounding speeds through an office space. All it takes is for one sick person to touch the front door handle, and the germs from the door will spread to half of the office occupants within four hours, according to a study out of the University of Arizona in the United States. Where do these germs hang out, and how

do they get around? The keyboard example is alarming, yes, but unfortunately it’s true of keyboards in offices all around the world. This is because keyboards are one of the least-cleaned pieces of equipment in an office; they’re fiddly, and cleaning teams don’t often pay them attention. Germs are also present in high numbers on your desktop, phone, on books and magazines, on internal office doorframes, and on the photocopier. The fridge – and the kitchen in general – is a paradise for germs, as are taps and doorknobs. There are a few ways to ensure that your facility restricts the transmission of germs. The first is employee education – educate the building occupants on the importance of cleaning their keyboards, mouses and telephones once a week. Make disinfecting

wipes available to building staff, so they can ensure that they effectively remove germs in their own workspaces. On top of teaching staff about hand hygiene, make sure you encourage building occupants to stay at home if they’re unwell. Losing one worker for a day is a small sacrifice if it prevents numerous others getting sick. It may seem like a no-brainer, but make sure staff members know to wash their hands at least two or three times per day. Throughout a workday, hands come into contact with any number of surfaces that harbour germs, so using hand sanitiser and washing hands thoroughly is vital to office and worker health. Bathrooms should be cleaned and disinfected at least once per day, depending on the number of people using the facilities. continued on page 68

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Carpet spaces: beautifully cleaned and always ready Solutions for every step of your carpet maintenance program

customer’s initial impression of a facility is typically influenced by the business’s cleanliness. Poorly maintained, dirty or stained carpets in high-traffic areas can be detrimental to a business’s image and profitability. In today’s fast-paced society, customers demand that businesses accommodate for their schedules – whatever the day and whenever the time. This has had a direct impact on carpet cleaning and turnaround times. To deal with these time constraints, the carpet cleaning paradigm has shifted. The focus is no longer on cleaning stains and dirt after they occur – rather, a proactive approach to maintaining carpet appearance and cleanliness has developed. This involves daily preventative maintenance measures, such as dry vacuuming and interim cleaning with the use of carpet cleaning equipment; however the issue still remains: ‘how do we get carpets cleaned, dried and ready for foot traffic as quickly as possible?’ Tennant’s innovative ReadySpace® Rapid-drying Carpet Cleaning Technology is the solution. ReadySpace® Technology cleans and dries carpets in under 30 minutes, to minimise area closure times and to allow for the removal of soils before they become embedded in the carpet fibres. This means that carpets remain cleaner over time, last longer, and extraction is required much less frequently. ReadySpace® technology uses 80 per cent less water to clean, and leaves up to 90 per cent less water in the carpet when compared to traditional extraction methods. ‘This technology enables us not only to clean the carpets more frequently, but to clean much of it during normal business hours rather than at night or on weekends,’ says Jeff Bishop, Clean Care Seminars Inc. ‘ReadySpace® combines effective results with rapid drying, which is its strongest feature.’ Unique nylon rollers are the basis for ReadySpace®. When damp, the fabric rollers rotate in opposite directions to attract dirt from the carpet. As the rollers lift the dirt, a sprayer inside the machine rinses the soil from the rollers, rather than the carpet. This results in less water being used on the floor, reducing odours and the possibility of mould. The water that is used to rinse the rollers is extracted by a vacuum and deposited into the recovery tank.

including vacuums and extractors. Tennant offers a range of backpack and upright vacuums, as well as deep-cleaning extractors certified by the Carpet and Rug Institute. Using these products simultaneously with ReadySpace® significantly extends the life of your carpet and enhances your facility’s image.

For more information on how Tennant’s products can be used in your carpet-cleaning program, please contact us: www.tennantco.com.au 1300 TENNANT

Tennant also provides a complete line of carpet-cleaning equipment for daily maintenance and restorative cleaning,

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continued from page 66

Flooring is often overlooked in terms of germ populations; however, with dirt and moisture walked in from outside, food and drink spills, and germs from sneezing and coughing, there are plenty of ways that germs can work their way into the carpet. Consider regular steam cleaning, and ensure that you’re vacuuming regularly. This will also assist in reducing allergens within the building. Hard surfaces – such as tiles, floorboards and vinyl – should be mopped regularly with a disinfecting floor cleaner to assist in eradicating bugs. It’s important to seek the services of a professional cleaner for your facility. Professionals know the vital areas to target for germ minimisation, as well as the most effective ways of eradicating germs. When you’re choosing a staff cleaner or a contractor, evaluate their experience in facilities similar to yours; ask about their cleaning products and equipment, and establish an understanding of the level of cleaning that you expect. Some businesses will prefer a green cleaning approach within a facility, particularly with the raft of sustainability ratings systems that are currently in play. Traditional cleaning products can emit volatile organic compounds, which have been found to negatively affect the health of building occupants, and certain chemicalbased cleaning solutions have been found to contribute to environmental degradation. If the environment is a factor in your choice of cleaning products and contractors, make sure that you’re not sacrificing the germ-killing properties of regular cleaning agents. As an example, ammonia is recognised as more eco-friendly than bleach, but it is not registered as a disinfectant by the Environmental Protection Agency. The same goes for vinegar, baking soda and teatree oil. If you’re using any green products, check their claims with regard to disinfection, as your building may look clean after their use, but still harbour nasty microbes. The number-one aim of cleaning your facility is to ensure the health and safety of your workers, so whatever methods you’re considering, keep this goal front of mind.

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SPONSORED ARTICLE

Exceptional service in facility services and hospitality

lynwood Services is a privately owned Australian company specialising in facility services and hospitality, with an operational history dating back to 1990. The management team, including brother and sister Michael Ebejer and Jo Spiteri, has a combined working history of more than 65 years in the industry. The organisation has expanded since it opened its doors, and developed into a respected and well-known brand in the industry. When asked about his approach to business, Director Michael replied, ‘How can we do it better for our customers? ‘The difference we offer our clients is innovative procedures, meticulous training and thorough supervision,’ he said. ‘We listen to our clients and we’re flexible. Our staff are dedicated and professional.’ Elynwood prides itself on its customer relationships, many of which have existed for more than 27 years. Jo added, ‘We always maintain our equipment to the latest technology, with the highest standards, and we always choose the best we can for the environment.’

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Elynwood provides quality assurance initiatives, live reporting systems for customers, and the implementation of a formally accredited integrated management system, which also encompasses OH&S and environmental management controls. Call now for a noobligation inspection and quote. Michael Ebejer

Contact: 03 9364 8116 or www.elynwood.com.au

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WHEN AND HOW SHOULD SAFETY ANCHORS AND LADDERS BE INSPECTED? BY CARL SACHS, MANAGING DIRECTOR, WORKPLACE ACCESS & SAFETY Most facilities managers are responsible for dozens of roof anchors and ladders used for routine maintenance of roof-mounted equipment, façades and windows. But what needs to be done to keep ladders and safety anchors truly safe? The AS/NZS1891 committee recommends a minimum 12-monthly inspection requirement for anchors and static lines in the absence of manufacturers’ instructions. The consequence of failure and surrounding conditions may dictate greater frequency. The state-based regulations and Codes of Practice of Victoria, Western Australia, South Australia and Queensland mandate a minimum six-monthly inspection, while New South Wales’s are annual.

Australian Standards

he answer is not so straightforward, as maintaining height safety equipment demands an understanding of overlapping regulations, codes and standards.

Although rarely mandatory, Australian Standards set benchmarks for safety performance, both in industry and in the event of a prosecution, so they deserve to be taken seriously.

How OHS legislation is structured Each state’s OHS Act is the primary legislation, and mandates compliance with health and safety regulations that deal with specific risks, such as height safety. Codes of Practice and Compliance Codes give practical advice regarding specific risks. Workplace safety authorities regard compliance with the codes of practice as compliance with OHS laws.

Inspection intervals Inspection intervals for anchors vary across Australia. Where a regulation, compliance code and/or Australian Standard provides varying frequencies for the inspection of anchors, static lines and ladders, the statutory requirement takes precedence.

Three key Australian Standards deal with safety anchors: the AS/NZS1891 series of standards deals with industrial fall arrest systems and devices, including AS/NZS5532, while AS/NZS4488 deals with industrial rope access systems. AS657 deals with fixed ladders and AS1892 with portable ladders. The inspection and testing requirements for anchorages and vertical and horizontal static lines are generally left to manufacturers under AS/NZS1891. The Standard states that inspection frequencies are not to exceed five times per year, defaulting to 12-monthly inspections in the absence of manufacturers’ recommendations.

What’s involved in tests and inspections? Inspections check that anchorage points and safety lines can perform adequately, and that all of the mandatory legal requirements for plant apply. Because the loads are significant (around 1500 kilograms per anchorage point) and a person is suspended from the anchor, this involves assessing the structure, the continued on page 72

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SPONSORED ARTICLE

Do you have any customer service challenges?

spent an hour pondering the challenges that our FM industry clients bring to us, and within a short time I came up with a list of 13 problems for which Well Done provides contact centre assistance. My condensed list is as follows – perhaps you can think of more: 3 scaling your operations – is a mobile still enough? 3 marketing your business – portable national numbers, multiple territories, contract requirements, premium customer services and hotlines 3 streamlining business processes – standardising and documenting procedures 3 being able to rely on any third party 3 saving on call-out costs 3 reviewing contractor performance – our audit trails can help 3 access to properties – privacy and security protocols 3 challenging customers!

temporary labour hire – could a virtual temp work for you? disaster recovery planning – can you leverage from our systems? 3 managing costs for complex services with low call volumes 3 measuring customer service – outbound survey samples 3 welfare monitoring – could you potentially be liable for the work health safety of staff and contractors working at facilities? The management team will be at Total Facilities at the Sydney Exhibition Centre on Glebe Island on 25–26 March. If any of these challenges resonate with you, or if you have others not mentioned, please come and see us on stand D14 and we can discuss the possibilities. 3 3

Kerrie McLeod, Sales and Marketing Manager Well Done International Pty Ltd 1300 551 796 www.welldone.net.au

If you need expert Australian FM call centre support, you should be talking to us at Well Done.

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continued from page 70

fixing of the anchor, and the condition of the equipment. Load tests are conducted for certain types of anchorages. Cable-end terminals are load tested and re-tensioned on safety lines. Individual anchors are inspected to ensure that they are fitted to the correct substrate with enough fixings of the appropriate grade according to the manufacturer’s instructions. The static and dynamic laboratory testing of anchors applies specifically to the fixing and substrates under testing (a roof purlin, for example). If an anchor is fixed to any other substrate, it is not compliant and may fail in the event of a fall. A rigging layout, together with the original certification documents containing testing data, is reviewed during inspections. Each building is different, and the harness user needs a plan that shows where the anchors are located, and how to use them. Every anchor point should be tagged and date-stamped. Individual anchor tags assure facilities managers that the anchors really have been visited by the inspector. Compliance plates need to be updated to prove currency. The administration of the system is important. Expect an updated equipment register, a detailed condition report, compliance tags on every anchorage point, and updated compliance plates. If a statement of compliance without any other supporting documentation is all you receive, reassess whether the inspector’s methodology is thorough, and if it captures all of the aspects of an inspection.

State-by-state requirements for anchors and static lines Queensland Regulation 306G(4) of the Work Health and Safety Regulations 2011 (Qld) mandates that anchorage points, including static lines, be inspected at least once every six months.

Victoria

anchorage points, including anchorage points for static lines, be inspected every six months. Duties laid out in the Victorian Regulations are deemed to be complied with if the standards set out in a compliance code are followed, according to Section 150 of the Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004 (VIC).

Western Australia In accordance with regulation 53 of the Occupational Safety and Health Regulations 1996, permanently fixed anchorage points, including anchorage points of static lines, are inspected at least every six months.

New South Wales Section 6 of the Managing the Risk of Falls at Workplaces code of practice says that anchorage points and static lines should be inspected to manufacturer’s guidelines or, in the absence of guidelines, at least every 12 months. This is based on AS/NZS1891, which is referenced in the Code. If the client cannot provide manufacturer’s guidelines and therefore cannot confirm the inspection frequency, engage an expert to inspect the anchor points, and recommend a frequency based on the client’s willingness to mitigate risk and reduce liability.

Requirements for ladders The Managing the Risk of Falls at Workplaces Code of Practice applies in New South Wales, Queensland and Western Australia. This requires ladders to be regularly inspected by a competent person in accordance with the manufacturer’s guidelines. In Victoria, the requirement for ladders to be regularly inspected by a competent person is fully detailed in section 186 of the Compliance Code, providing six examples of instances in which ladders should be replaced. The client should do a risk assessment and determine a frequency of inspection that takes into account the type of ladders, capability and competency of operators, and the likely outcome of a fall. On that basis, a suitable inspection frequency can be set.

The Prevention of Falls in General Construction Compliance Code mandates that

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Regular ladder inspection is required

The bottom line: the legislation and industry practice In most states, the law points to six-monthly inspections for static lines and anchors, requiring the inspections to be performed by a competent person. The frequent use of ladders and fall statistics means that ladders should be inspected every three to six months. Determining the competency of a service provider is a time-consuming task. Thirdparty accreditation to test and inspect to the relevant inspection standard demonstrates the inspector’s competency and capability. Insisting on NATA (National Association of Testing Authorities) accreditation also simplifies the process and guarantees accreditation of technical competence. If less frequent inspections are preferred, have your provider conduct and document a thorough risk assessment to ensure that this interval can be justified and supported.

About the author Carl Sachs is Chair of the Working at Height Association (WAHA) technical committee. He is also the Managing Director of Workplace Access & Safety, a NATA-accredited full-line consulting, inspection and testing service provider for any brand of fall prevention equipment.

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28/05/14

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Do more with your walls

esign professionals are embracing walls beyond their main purpose – being a supporting structure – and exploring their full potential to create inspiring and interesting commercial spaces. According to Laminex Marketing Manager Joanna Baker, the ‘do more with your walls’ design thinking is seeing architects, designers and specifiers use walls as a stand-out, functional feature. ‘All in the name of functional design, there is a rise of walls being used as writing surfaces, creative storage solutions, wall dividers and movable wall systems to create reconfigurable spaces in commercial interiors, from offices to retail and hospitality fit-outs,’ Joanna explains. Incorporating durable and decorative walls into functional commercial spaces can be achieved with the wide range of Laminex Wall Panel solutions. The offer includes Clipwall™, the latest revolutionary Laminex product – a wall-lining system that eliminates the time-consuming process of plaster jointing and painting, by offering a durable and virtually seamless solution with prefinished panels. While allowing architects, specifiers and designers to incorporate stunning patterns and textures into interiors, Laminex Clipwall is also up to five times faster to install than alternative wall panelling options. Laminex Clipwall panels are scratch- and UV-resistant, splash-proof, and

FACILITY PERSPECTIVES | VOLUME 9 NUMBER 1

easy to clean. A range of neutral and wood-grain decors is available in the Laminex Clipwall range. Also exclusive to Laminex Australia is Button-fix™ – a multiconfigurable, secure and secret fixing system, giving design professionals the ability to mount and remove Laminex panels. It also allows for 90-degree corners, hidden access panels and hinged doors, and it can reduce installation time, thereby saving project costs. Ranging from durable and decorative to magnetic and writeable panels, the selection of Laminex panels that can be used with Button-fix includes Laminex Impressions textured surfaces, Laminex DiamondGloss, Laminex Timber Veneers, Laminex Silk Finish, Laminex Innovations and Laminex Compact Laminate. ‘Laminex Wall Panel solutions give professionals the confidence to use our ranges of decorative panels in applications where easy installation, durability and visual impact is important. This includes airport terminals, corporate receptions, corridors, hotel lobbies and much more,’ Joanna says.

For further information please contact Laminex: Phone: 132 136 Web: www.laminex.com.au

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Support for your FM team

ith more than 10 years’ experience in facilities maintenance, 360 Facility Management is the supplier of choice for your maintenance requirements. 360FM supports your facilities team in the day-to-day completion of work requests, as well as providing feedback and recommendations based on our experience. Typically, no two requests are the same, and 360FM is the safety net for requests that others can’t (or won’t) deliver. Our suite of services includes: 3 effective management and delivery of all work order maintenance requests 3 carpentry and general maintenance/handyman works 3 conference and meeting room set-up/pull down 3 daily light globe maintenance 3 repairing and replacing locks and door hardware 3 workstation reconfiguration 3 relocations and minor churns 3 kitchen servicing: cleaning and stocking of staff kitchens 3 painting: no job too large or small 3 electrical testing and tagging 3 repairs to furniture and fittings: including welding 3 ceiling tile replacement and sourcing 3 blind repair and replacement 3 glass and glazing: installation of viewing panels into doors 3 carpet repairs

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joinery plumbing; including repair/replacement of fittings – including sourcing 3 appliance repairs. We also source specific items, such as TVs, bins, soap dispensers, lockers, high-vis vests, dishwashers, microwaves, laptop leads, public bike pumps, signage, furniture and fittings. 3 3

MAINTENANCE + ESSENTIAL SERVICES |

PAINT THAT WORKS WITH YOU How paint has evolved from decoration to operations

Paint has come a long way since its origins. The first known example of paint being used was 100,000 years ago in South Africa; archaeologists discovered a human-made ochre mixture that could have been used as paint at that time. Paints were primarily used for decorative purposes, and this was the case up until the Industrial Revolution, when zinc-based paints began to be widely used on the interior walls of houses to prevent them rotting from damp.

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oday, we use paints for all kinds of ornamental purposes, but coatings are increasingly applied to facilities’ surfaces as a means of facilitating a particular building function. Following are some examples of different paints and coatings, and their uses.

Intumescent coatings and paint Facilities managers are all too aware of the dangers of fire; each facility has a fire strategy in place, as well as fire doors, exits and hydrants to meet with stringent Australian Fire Protection Standards. When it comes to fire protection, there’s no such thing as less is more. An intumescent is a substance that, when exposed to heat, expands, increasing in volume and density. In the paint and coatings industry, there are a variety of intumescent products available to augment fire protection systems that are mandated by Australian Standards. Intumescent paint reacts when exposed to extreme heat by swelling to many times its original thickness, carbonising to create a layer of char up to 50 millimetres thick, which insulates the surface onto which it is painted. Intumescent paints were initially conceived to be used on steel girders, in order to protect them from damage and warping during fire events. More recently, thin-film interior intumescent paints have been developed that allow for sensitive passive fire protection in such facilities as heritage buildings, which have traditionally posed problems regarding balancing the installation of passive fire protection while retaining heritage features. Intumescent paints are similar to standard paints in their

appearance when applied to surfaces, and their fire resistance can typically endure for up to 90 minutes. The application of intumescent paint is particularly useful in facilities such as aged care homes, heritage buildings, hospitals, schools, and buildings housing valuable or highly flammable collections, such as museums or libraries.

Paint and coatings in healthcare facilities Healthcare facilities arguably need to pay more attention to their interior coatings than other facilities. Paints used in hospitals and aged care must be low in volatile organic compounds (VOCs) so as not to emit any airborne toxins that may exacerbate patients’ symptoms. VOCs have been shown to have a negative effect on the health of some building occupants, including headaches; dizziness; irritated skin, eyes and throat; and allergies. Using low-VOC paint has been shown to contribute to better indoor air quality, and improved health of building tenants. Low-VOC paints also help to inhibit the growth of mold and mildew on surfaces, which contributes to the sanitisation of healthcare facilities. Antimicrobial paints have been on the market for a number of years, and the demand for these coatings has grown significantly over the past few years. Antimicrobial paints claim to aid in the sanitisation of healthcare facilities through destroying bacteria and viruses that might otherwise live on surfaces like walls and floors. It’s important to research these products prior to their application,

Using low-VOC paint has been shown to contribute to better indoor air quality, and improved health of building tenants

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MAINTENANCE + ESSENTIAL SERVICES |

however, as there are still concerns from some parties as to the effects of antimicrobials on the environment.

Painting over energy inefficiency As a result of the unprecedented recent focus on the energy efficiency of facilities, there are many products coming onto the market that offer benefits with regard to energy usage. Cool roofing has taken off, particularly in urban areas where the urban heat island effect is a climate change issue. Cool roofing involves painting a rooftop with either light-coloured or reflective paint, which reduces the amount of heat that is held in the roofing surface and transferred into the building itself. As a result, the temperature within the building is lowered and remains more constant than it would without the cool roofing technology; demand for cooling within the building is lessened; and energy and cost savings are achieved. In addition to cool roof coatings, there is new research being undertaken around the world for a new player on the environmental coatings scene; this research endeavours to ultimately lead to the provision of solar paints. Currently, the application is in testing stages; the University of Newcastle’s organic photovoltaic (OPV) research team has developed SolarPaint, which is ‘a completely printable OPV coating based

on semiconducting polymer nanoparticles dispersed in water’. Essentially, this means solar cells that can be printed onto a substrate – currently, the SolarPaint is printed onto thin sheets of plastic, which will eventually be able to be used to cover the external walls and roof of a facility, transforming the building into one big power generator. The plastic sheets are the first step; researchers aim to be able to spray this substance directly onto the exterior surfaces of buildings, which would enable all building owners to generate their own energy, and would drastically reduce dependence on fossil fuels. In the United Kingdom, researchers at the University of Sheffield have developed spray-on solar cells using perovskite; a material that is similar to the silicon used in traditional solar panels, but that is much more cost-efficient to produce. This technology is still in development, as it needs to achieve greater efficiencies to be a viable alternative to silicon cells; however, the outlook is very positive, and developments are occurring rapidly. There you have it – the future of coatings for your facilities. When you’re considering refreshing your paint scheme, don’t just think about aesthetics; think about function, productivity, sustainability and health – you’ll be well rewarded for your foresight.

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