In a definition provided by English Oxford Dictionaries, a Handyman is a person able or employed to do occasional repairs and minor renovations. You may have completed the main body of work for your business, everything seems to be running smoothly… however, as time goes on things will wear and tear, and will require fixing as soon as possible. If left unresolved a minor problem could evolve into a large problem, this could cost the company thousands or even the entire business.

A regular ‘handyman’ will be reactive and provide minor repairs provision for a company, therefore any problems that arise will quickly be resolved and to a high standard. A well-maintained business allows for brand reputation to be at optimum level. Although branding is built through a strategised business and marketing strategy, physical appearance is also very important. A workplace that is fully functional, clean and tidy creates a professional and efficient environment for those visiting and those working in the space. For example, poor paintwork and a leaking tap may not create the best impression on a prospective client.

A handyman and their services will create a safe and comfortable environment for employees and visitors. This is important as any accidents within the business’ area could result in the victim making a claim, your company facing jail time and/or a fine, and insurance becoming more expensive or void.

Some examples of the services a handyman will supply are:

(start bullet point) Lights – Changing light bulbs in offices may not be as simple as a home bulb. Often with fluorescent and complex fixtures, changing the bulb can be time-consuming and must be fitted properly to reduce risk.  

Furniture – Building and maintaining furniture is important to keep the office running smoothly. A wobbly chair may not look the best for a visitor to the office. The same way a cluttered space with files and folders would be better if the appropriate storage was built.

Hanging items – Whether that be photos, artwork, mirrors, TVs or any other heavy objects, all will need different fixtures and fittings depending on the type of wall and the intended use of the item. A handyman will be familiar with the tools and materials needed to do these tasks, making sure they are placed safely and securely. (end bullet point)

At OCD FM, we have an outstanding commitment to delivering. As a tailored facilities management company, our team know that we can add value to our clients. If you have any questions about facilities management and how it may aid your business, call us on 01353 886 890 or email us at info@ocd-fm.com

We often see ‘one size fits all’ for a range of products or services, but facilities management (FM) is not one of them.

Facilities Management is a process which strives to be efficient and effective in its support to the organisations that it serves. The process integrates people, systems, processes, technologies and locations.

Examples of some FM services are:

• Routine and planned preventative maintenance of all Mechanical and Electrical services
• Daily and specialist cleaning
• Waste control
• Emergency call outs
• Security measures
• ‘Handyman’ service 

It is important to know every business is different, thus needing a different FM strategy. By tailoring the strategy to the specific company, only the necessary and discussed services will be undertaken. Industry type will create a foundation for the FM plan, but the specific business, location and aims will need further accurate planning. For example, an academy may want/need to have security for the provision of building access. However, a private residence may not need this level of security.

Here at OCD FM, we strive to provide customers with a high quality individually tailored service. In order to identify and understand each client’s particular needs, we make sure to undertake a comprehensive survey of the client. Using this information, we can then go on to creating lists of all the electrical and mechanical equipment involved, as well as a condition survey (fully understand the condition of the building(s) and to assist with planned maintenance). After the previously mentioned has been addressed, the implementation of the Planned Preventative Maintenance (PPM) programme will begin which:

• Ensures that you have the most economical solutions.
• Helps you more accurately forecast potential expenditure.
• Confirm that all your electrical and mechanical equipment reaches or even exceeds the expected lifespan.
• Make sure that all your mechanical, electrical and soft services are compliant with Approved Codes of Practice and British Standards.

At OCD FM, we have an outstanding commitment to delivering. As a tailored facilities management company, our team know that we can add value to our clients. If you have any questions about facilities management and how it may aid your business, call us on 01353 886 890 or email us at info@ocd-fm.com

What is PAT?

PAT stands for Portable Appliance Testing. It is a term given to the process of examining electrical appliances and equipment to make sure they are safe to use. Most equipment faults can be physically seen, but some deficiencies can only be found through testing. It is those faults that could be very dangerous for its users if not tested regularly. Same goes for faults that cannot be found through testing, only visually. Regular brief checks are important, but formal checks by a competent person are also necessary for the maintenance plan. The type of equipment and environment which it is being used in will indicate how often it needs to be checked and the level of inspection.

How often do I need to do PAT?

The Electricity At Work Regulations  Act (1989) commands that any electrical equipment is regularly maintained to a safe level of use. This law does not specify what needs to be done or how often. However, it is an employer’s legal obligation to provide a safe working place for employees, therefore PAT will be necessary for your business. The frequency of testing will depend on the type of equipment you have and its use. For example, power tools will have to be tested more often than a lamp in a reception.

Do I need to keep a record of PAT?

There is no legal requirement for records to be made of your portable appliance testing, but it is good practice to have these documents to know what condition the specific item is in. The records will also help in your maintenance schemes.

Do I need to do PAT on new equipment?

It is the manufacturer’s responsibility to provide safe machinery and equipment, but it is good practice to check the item to verify it is safe to use for your staff.

Here at OCD FM, our partners come with a wealth of knowhow and experience. If you have any questions about PAT and how it may aid your business, call us on 01353 886 890 or email us at info@ocd-fm.com

Same as other appliances, your boiler must be checked regularly in order to keep it in working condition and be safe. A boiler is essential in creating hot water and warm rooms- part of an employees rights in a workplace. In this blog post, we explain why boiler maintenance is so important.

Issues & Problems

Regular maintenance allows you to spot problems or issues before they can escalate further. Prevention and small fixtures can save you money long-term as, without these regular checks, you could potentially have to buy a whole new boiler rather than pay to fix one small part.

Efficiency

Maintenance will allow for optimum working efficiency. Most businesses aim to be eco-friendly, one of the main ways to do this is to make sure your energy consumption is only for the necessities. If a boiler is not working to 100%, you could be wasting money paying for it to run, but not actually doing what it is meant to. Wastefully using energy will also affect the environment and harm your eco footprint. Maintenance is not only for older boilers, new boilers should also be maintained so that they remain in good condition.

Safety

Although boilers revolutionised the way we get hot water and heating, they come with potentially life-threatening consequences if not installed or maintained properly. The risk of a poisonous gas called Carbon Monoxide being produced from a boiler is high if it hasn’t been installed or checked regularly and efficiently. Carbon monoxide is labelled as the silent killer due to it being invisible and odourless, making it hard to be noticed if a leak does occur. A registered engineer will be able to conduct tests and see if any parts could cause the gas to leak, doing the necessary fixtures to prevent this.

If exposed, seek medical advice immediately as it could be fatal to life. It is also good practice to have a Carbon Monoxide alarm fitted to ensure safety.

If you have any questions about boiler maintenance and how it may aid your business, call us on 01353 886 890 or email us at info@ocd-fm.com