A recent article examines what we’ve learned about on-campus facility services as a result of COVID-19 restrictions
In a recent article in Facilities Executive, UG2’s Senior Vice President of Operations, Jonathan Peck, examines the effects of the COVID-19 on college and university campuses one year into the pandemic. While we originally thought things might get back to normal by fall 2020, ongoing restrictions have had major financial and operational repercussions on the higher education industry.
The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly
As a result of decreasing enrollment, Peck writes, “revenue plummeted while expenditures—such as IT infrastructure to support remote classrooms and work models, COVID-19 testing, high-frequency disinfecting, cleaning, and modifications to support HVAC systems—have gone up.” As budgets tightened, it became more challenging for facilities services to keep the on-campus environment clean and its community safe.
But there is a silver lining. Peck explains that while on-campus facility services staff were “drinking from fire hoses” at the beginning of the pandemic, they now know “which products, technologies, and best practices are top for keeping spaces effectively distanced, high-touch surfaces sanitized, and air quality clean.”
Four Key Things Higher Ed Facilities Learned From the Pandemic
- Keeping employees safe is a priority. In addition to regular testing for COVID-19, it’s essential to provide on-campus staff with PPE and ensure the ability for social distancing. This means you may need to shift your employees’ schedules, stagger their shifts, and allow them to work independently.
- Take advantage of technology. For example, we created the UG2 Disinfection Log app for smart phones to make it easier and more efficient for cleaning staff to do their work. This innovative new tool also allows our employees to identify high-traffic areas, adhere to state-mandated disinfection regulations, and contribute to contact tracing efforts.
- Conduct facility assessments regularly. Predictive maintenance and detailed engineering economic analysis can help higher ed institutions extend the life of aging equipment and infrastructure, leading to smarter investments and cost efficiencies.
- Stay flexible. During times of uncertainty, it’s a good idea to incorporate risk management into your operations strategy. This includes having an emergency communication plan, using data to inform your key decision-making, ensuring emergency supplies and equipment are fully stocked and available, and partnering with a facility services expert like UG2 for outsourcing.
For more information and insights on best practices for higher education facility services, read the full Facility Executive article and be sure to check out our blog for posts about ensuring the health and safety of your on-campus community during and after the pandemic.