Building Systems
Archival preservation facility is a net-zero first
Library and Archives Canada’s new preservation storage facility opened as the first net-zero carbon archival centre in the Americas,
How digital twin technology can transform FM
Innovation in digital twin technology— virtual representations of physical objects—has the potential to create operationally rich, continuous data feeds across workplace, asset, and inventory systems.
Refurbishing waste equipment in a circular era
Recycling tends to take all the glory and centre-stage of sustainability narratives in the media. Garbage, on the other hand, is a significant problem that is rarely discussed.
Canadian buildings scrutinized in OECD review
As part of a biennial review and benchmarking of Canada’s economic performance, a new OECD report looks at progress toward the interim 2030 target and 2050 goal for net-zero carbon emissions.
A supermarket becomes Meaford’s new library
The adaptive re-use project relocates Meaford Public Library from an inaccessible three-storey building to a one-storey facility.
Accessible public bathrooms show bad form
Low-cost investments and practical adjustments to the configuration of fixtures could improve safety, convenience and assurance for people with disabilities.
New oversight regime set for Ontario elevators
A new oversight regime for Ontario’s elevators and escalators will come into force on March 1, bringing shorter timelines for rectifying an extensive list of designated high-risk deficiencies.
A path to barrier-free buildings: Facility assessments and strategic accessibility plans
A pressing issue facing facility managers is the crucial impact that barrier-free accessibility can have on a strategic renewal plan.
Innovations in health care monitoring technology
There are so many innovative ways to use surveillance technology and equipment beyond traditional security.
Minding mould in LTC and hospitals
Air exchanges and mechanical systems that were sufficient when buildings were constructed may be considered undersized today, allowing fertile ground for mould growth.
A recap of IFMA’s World Workplace
In the past, cleaning suppliers, landscapers, and pest control companies dominated FM shows. Not anymore.
Designing for patient dignity in Grande Prairie
Inside the 681,000-square-foot facility, people are able to experience the landscape and natural light, even throughout Alberta’s harsh weather extremes.
Operational resilience a performance priority
New technical guidance for assessing and responding to building-level risk underscores that operations teams carry responsibility to safeguard occupants, facilitate business continuity and protect asset value.
Preventative HVAC maintenance tips for fall
Fall HVAC maintenance allows you to look ahead to upcoming spring repairs, budget spending for upcoming expenditures, and keep your building in its best shape for the coming year.
Electricity grid capacity a 2030 imperative
Electricity grid capacity is critical to enable the buildings and transportation sectors to move away from fossil fuels and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Why facilities must be proactive to improve cyber security
Research found cyber attackers increased their targeting of internet-connected OT devices by 2,204% between January and September 2021.
Science on display at Memorial University
A blue whale skeleton, 25 metres long, suspends from the ceiling of Memorial University’s Core Science Facility—as though it is swimming in empty space.