Facility managers play a pivotal role in business operations. As industries experience significant changes and improvements, the responsibilities of facility managers extend far beyond managing people and utilities. They are also strategic partners in ensuring business continuity, disaster recovery, and workplace safety.
Facility managers’ role in meeting compliance obligations
One of the most important tasks of facility managers is to ensure that the building and the people occupying it are prepared for the event of any emergency. They are responsible for the safety and survival of tenants and staff, as well as minimising facility risks from emergencies.
While this may sound like the role of Superman, reducing risk exposure is simple if all compliance requirements are met. The following are the steps to establishing an emergency plan and meeting health and safety compliance obligations now and well into the future.
- Establish an Emergency Planning Committee (EPC) and assign a Fire Safety Advisor
- Document written Emergency Plan and Response Procedure
- Design your Emergency Evacuation Diagrams
- Set up Emergency Control Organisation (ECO)
- Complete training requirements
- Participate in regular evacuation exercises
Assessing risks
Whether your workplace is an office or a construction site, there are risks that could endanger workers. Facility managers need to secure that hazards and risks are tagged and identified properly to uphold safety. While there are many ways to go about it, the most effective method is to ask and interview tenants of the facility about possible situations that present hazards to them and other building occupants.
Some risks are not visible and easy to spot. The nature and size of the workplace can make identifying hazards more difficult than expected. To ensure an effective risk assessment, consult with emergency planning providers and OH&S Committee members. They will not only give you their expert advice and assessment, but their recommendations will also help you comply with Australian Standard 1851.
Facility Managers encouraging a culture of safety
Workplace safety is not a privilege or a reward given to a selected few. More than meeting compliance obligations, facility managers must remember that their role is primarily to ensure that the people in their care are safe and sound within the facility at any given point. They should be the main advocates of safety culture.
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