Managing an industrial building effectively involves a few key steps. From safety to compliance, proactive facilities management in Kent ensures your site runs smoothly, reduces downtime, and protects both staff and assets. A monthly routine of inspections and checks can make all the difference.
Here’s a practical checklist every operator should follow:
- Fire Safety Checks
Fire safety should always be at the top of your list. Following best practice, each week it is important to test fire alarms and emergency lighting, check that fire extinguishers are in place and serviced, and ensure all emergency exits are clear and well-marked. Regular fire safety checks reduce risk and help meet legal requirements, which are a critical part of industrial building management.
- Health & Safety Inspections
Regular health and safety checks are essential to protect both your staff and your business. Walking the site to spot slip and trip hazards, unsafe equipment, or PPE issues is just the start, ensuring staff training is up to date takes time and expertise. That’s why having a dedicated health and safety team to carry out thorough inspections is so important. Professionals can identify risks you might miss, implement corrective measures, and keep your workplace fully compliant. In Kent, prioritising expert H&S inspections is a crucial part of effective facilities management.
- Building Systems & Preventative Maintenance
Keeping a building running smoothly relies on regular inspections and preventative maintenance of key systems. Each month, facilities management teams should review essential services such as heating, ventilation, air conditioning, lighting, fire safety systems, and general building infrastructure. Maintaining clear service records and scheduling routine checks helps identify issues early, preventing costly repairs and disruption to occupants. Proactive building maintenance is a vital part of professional facilities management, ensuring properties remain safe, compliant, and operating efficiently.
- Electrical & Lighting Checks
Monthly electrical checks help maintain safety and operational efficiency. Test emergency lighting, inspect panels for overheating or damage, and ensure all wiring and sockets are in good condition. Regular inspections can prevent serious issues and are an important part of facilities management in Kent.
- HVAC & Ventilation Systems
Proper air quality is critical in industrial buildings. Check and replace filters as needed, ensure fans and vents are working correctly, and watch for leaks or unusual noises. Maintaining HVAC systems not only protects equipment but also ensures a comfortable and safe working environment.
- Plumbing & Water Systems
Leaks, blockages, and pressure problems can quickly escalate if not spotted early. Check pipes, storage tanks, and water treatment systems each month, and ensure everything is operating efficiently. Good plumbing oversight is a simple but vital step in industrial building management.
- Waste Management & Compliance
Ensure all waste is stored and disposed of safely, and that hazardous materials are handled correctly. Keep accurate records of collections to demonstrate compliance. Proper waste management is both a legal requirement and a key aspect of facilities management in Kent.
- Site Security
Security is more than CCTV. Inspect fences, gates, and access points, review visitor logs, and test alarm systems. A secure site protects your people, equipment, and property, and is an essential part of managing an industrial building effectively.
- External Areas
Check car parks, pathways, and loading zones for hazards or damage. Clear debris, maintain good drainage, and ensure signage and lighting are visible. Well-kept external areas improve safety and create a professional impression for staff, visitors, and clients.
- Documentation & Reporting
Finally, record all inspections, maintenance activities, and any issues identified. Follow up on outstanding actions and schedule upcoming work proactively. Accurate documentation not only helps with compliance but also makes industrial building management more efficient and reliable.
Final Thoughts
By following a consistent monthly checklist, operators can keep industrial buildings safe, compliant, and efficient. Proactive facilities management in Kent reduces risk, prevents costly repairs, and ensures day-to-day operations run smoothly. Our standard facilities package includes monthly checks on-site from a dedicated facilities member.
At Presence & Co., we support industrial buildings with a comprehensive approach to facilities management in Kent, from inspections and maintenance coordination to compliance checks and operational support. Our team helps ensure your buildings are safe, efficient, and ready for whatever each month brings.
