Page 34 - CleanIndiaJournal June Digital Issue

Focus

FM in educational institutions
A class apart

Health, safety and wellbeing of students and staff underpin every

aspect of FM in the educational facilities, says Ashwini Walawalkar –
Country Head, Technique Control Facility Management.

Key challenges Commitment to safety Moreover, cleaning activities are
scheduled to minimise disruption to
These include developing robust We conduct thorough due diligence academic activities, ensuring a non-
business continuity plans, training on-site from an EHS perspective, disruptive learning environment.
children and staff for emergency including HIRA and COSHH The use of specialised equipment
response, raising student awareness assessments. This enables us to such as battery-operated machines,
about prevention, coordinating with proactively address potential risks quiet vacuum cleaners and low-
housekeeping teams, recruiting and hazards. We also conduct first aid impact floor scrubbers contributes
skilled manpower, teaching basic training, fire evacuation drills, and to a clean and healthy space.
etiquette and integrating cleaning teach our staff and students to handle
machines. equipment like extinguishers, etc. Green schools
Facility managers must We can take our learnings from
prioritise safety and efficiency by Products & processes managing some of the largest
implementing training programs, Cleaning processes and equipment business parks in Asia and deliver
fostering effective communication, in educational institutions are these learnings to schools. Since
attracting qualified personnel, unique due to their emphasis on most of this portfolio is certified
assessing the cost-benefits of safety, hygiene and age-appropriate by bodies like LEED, GRESB,
technology, and promoting a culture cleaning. These institutions prioritise etc., we understand what goes into
of responsibility. the well-being of students and staff managing such spaces.
with rigorous cleaning protocols
We can contribute by
Residential schools and disinfection practices using implementing environment-friendly
Facility management at schools approved cleaning agents. practices such as energy-efficient
with residential facilities poses To enhance efficiency and reduce lighting systems, water-saving
additional challenges due to 24/7 dependency on manpower, we fixtures, waste management
operational demands and the need offer automated cleaning machines, strategies and eco-friendly cleaning
to prioritise student well-being and resulting in more effective processes. We also contribute with
safety. They are responsible for cleaning with fewer personnel energy audits, implement renewable
creating a safe and secure living involved. Additionally, we develop energy solutions, promote recycling
environment, including managing comprehensive contingency plans initiatives and provide training
dormitory facilities, implementing to respond to any unforeseen on sustainability practices to the
appropriate security measures, and eventualities swiftly and efficiently. school staff and students.
promoting student health and well-
being.

The dedicated facility staff
diligently uphold hygiene standards
by maintaining a safe distance
from the students, ensuring a
healthy environment free from any
potential contact-related concerns.
Additionally, they must coordinate
with academic staff to integrate
facility management practices into
residential life. CIJ

JUNE 2023•Clean India Journal
34 www.cleanindiajournal.com