REDUCING THE IMPACT OF CLIMATE CHANGE WITH EFFECTIVE FACILITY MANAGEMENT

Climate change has long been a topic of global concern that has been discussed and debated at the highest levels. Whilst world leaders and authorities are trying to quickly adapt and develop new strategies for lessening the impact of human population, we are seeing the effects of climate change almost daily through rising temperatures, drought, wildfires, flooding and extreme weather events worldwide.

With the impact of climate change being felt more regularly here in the UK, commercial property professionals are increasingly having to deal with new challenges in their approach to facility management.

Risk reduction has always been a key component of effective facility management, but now there is an increasing need for more proactive measures to reduce hazards connected to extreme weather conditions. Below we have detailed the main climate events that UK commercial properties experience and the actions that need to feature in any effective facility management strategy:

1)    Extreme Heat

Extreme heat isn’t something that we usually think about hear in the UK, but when Coningsby in Lincolnshire featured in the headlines in July 2022 having experienced the UK’s highest recorded temperature of 40.3c, it exposed weaknesses in many commercial facility management plans across the UK. With less than 40% of East Midlands commercial properties having an Energy Performance Certificate grading of C+ or above, it left many workers struggling to deal with workplace temperatures. For some commercial buildings this exposed a lack of effective insulation to support heat transfer, which not only helps to keep warmth retained in the winter months, but also keeps the building cool during summer.

With instances of extreme heat being predicted to occur with more regularity, building energy performance will increasingly become more important especially for older buildings.

2)    Flooding

The effective management of commercial property at risk of flooding requires a well-targeted and informed plan that includes risk assessments, insurance planning, asset protection and of course preventative measures. Risk reduction is a key part of this process, having a robust assessment plan to identify risks and take steps to reduce the impact. These include signing up for flood warnings, investing in flood barriers and other water resistant upgrades, ensuring that all elements of guttering, drainage and roofing are inspected regularly and cleared of debris, plus having a business continuity plan.

3)    Ice & Snow

With winter months fast approaching, dealing with the cold weather is something that we are experienced with in the UK, but it is still surprising to see the number of businesses which are caught out with combatting the cold. It was estimated that in 2018, when the ‘Beast From the East’ hit our shores, it cost the UK economy £1bn per day in loss of economic production.

Planning and preparation in advance is key to ensure that snow and ice has been risk assessed, orders have been placed for grit supplies and contractors have been appointed where needed to clear the snow and apply grit. In addition to this, regular property inspection should ensure that drains and water flow run off areas are clear for drainage and all internal and external pipes in non-heated areas are insulated.

4)    High Winds

High winds are a feature of British winter time, we experience them regularly and are well aware of the damage and risk to life that they can cause. As with all weather events, risk assessment and preventative measures are key, so actions such as tree surveys, building roof inspections and assessment of external building signage, fencing and other assets are essential in advance.

With our climate change and weather events becoming more unpredictable, preparation and planning is more essential than ever. The Government’s “UK Climate Change Risk Assessment 2022” document is a great starting point for many businesses to understand the wider implications for compliance management.

If you need support with implementing an effective Facility Management plan, the team at Banks Long and Co are always happy to help commercial properties of all sizes. Please contact us on 01522 544515.