Commercial properties have many regulations and codes they must follow for the safety of occupants as well as avoiding costly penalties and liabilities. Nonetheless, maintaining compliance with evolving rules and standards is an ongoing challenge for property owners and managers.
Fire Safety Systems
Among the most critical safety systems, fire detection and suppression equipment like alarms, sprinklers, extinguishers, and control panels require meticulous maintenance and inspections per fire code requirements. This equipment should undergo comprehensive professional testing at least annually.
Make sure to record all inspection information and promptly address any identified issues. Routinely check that fire extinguishers remain unobstructed with proper pressure levels and servicing tags.
Elevators and Escalators
There are many safety codes governing elevators/escalators, including operator qualifications, brake systems, control circuitry, accessibility compliance and more. Most jurisdictions mandate routine inspections every 6 months by certified inspectors.
Post inspection certificates inside each unit. Immediately address any cited violations related to electrical systems, leveling, door operations or excessive wear. Facility management companies like All Pro Cleaning Systems can streamline coordinating these inspections across properties.
Indoor Air Quality
Poor indoor air quality inside buildings carries health risks and potential OSHA violations. Require routine inspection and maintenance of HVAC systems, including filter changes, duct cleaning and ensuring adequate outdoor air intake/circulation.
Monitor for excess moisture that enables mold growth. Assess air samples periodically for contaminants like carbon monoxide, volatile organic compounds, or particulate matter exceeding limits. Deploy air purifiers and ensure ventilation in any areas with hazardous chemicals used.
Electrical Systems
Outdated or overloaded electrical panels create fire hazards and put buildings out of code compliance. Have a licensed electrician conduct thermal scanning of panels annually, immediately correcting any hotspots indicating loose connections or overloaded circuits.
Maintain clear access and working space around electrical panels per OSHA rules. Ensure extension cords only get temporary usage, preventing tripping hazards or overloaded multi-plug adapters. Ground-fault circuit interrupters should protect outlets in wet areas.
ADA Accessibility
The Americans with Disabilities Act sets requirements for features like ramps, door clearances, elevator controls, stairwell handrails, bathroom grab bars and parking lot striping that enable access for those with impairments. Conduct routine inspections using compliance checklists.
Perform necessary upgrades for full ADA compatibility across the property during renovations. Pay attention to maintaining proper clearances around exits, hallways, and common areas free of obstructions. Facilities with accessibility violations face significant fines.
Hazardous Materials
Any hazardous chemicals, agents or materials present require adherence to OSHA hazard communication standards. Maintain comprehensive chemical inventories and safety data sheets detailing properties, protective equipment needed and disposal protocols.
Proper labeling of all chemical containers is mandatory, including with NFPA hazard diamonds. Secondary containment must prevent leaks/spills. Commercial kitchens require specific codes around ventilation, fire suppression, and grease traps.
Emergency Planning
Besides fire drills and evacuation planning, properties should have a comprehensive emergency action plan covering protocols for natural disasters, medical emergencies, crime incidents, and communication procedures. Designate roles like safety wardens, area monitors, and first responders.
Documentation and Auditing
The best way to ensure ongoing compliance is to maintain thorough documentation and audit trails across all safety programs, equipment testing, corrective actions, and training. Leverage software tools to consolidate records in a centralized compliance management system.
Assign clear roles and responsibilities across departments. Follow standardized checklists for inspections and audits. Provide dashboards with automated alerts for upcoming testing requirements or permit renewals. Preparedness minimizes risk and liability exposures.
Conclusion
Being proactive in all these areas and working closely with trusted partners means property teams can drive a culture of safety, meet all codes/regulations and maintain business continuity through any incidents. Investments in compliance pay dividends through reduced risks, enhanced efficiency, and workplace protections.
