FMJ Facilities Management magazine providing industry-specific intelligence to FM and property professionals
A revised Client Guide to Office Fit-Out and Refurbishment has been published by the Finishes and Interiors Sector (FIS) to promote best practice in the fit-out process.
First published in 2017, the updated guide is aimed at clients, contractors and architects involved in fit-out projects and takes into account new working practices post-pandemic, the Building Safety Act and advances in sustainability.
For clients, creating or adapting an office fit-out that can suit businesses in an environment where hybrid working has become the norm can prove daunting. The publication will guide them through the process from the initial decision as to whether to refurbish an existing office or relocate and fit-out new premises, through to post-occupancy evaluation. It explains step-by-step the process, along with outlining the professional help available to help ensure a successful outcome.
The revised guide reflects the driving forces behind changes to office space design. In the first instance, it considers the responsibilities of a client and other implications of the Building Safety Act such as the interaction with ‘higher risk buildings’ (as defined in the legislation), and how to consider the impact in the early stages of planning a fit-out. It also reflects the evolution and rapid maturation of best practices and methods of measurement relating to sustainability.
Furthermore, the guide will take account of the digitisation of construction information combined with the increasing adoption of video conferencing technology and other post pandemic implications to ways of working that can mean significant changes to the way offices are designed.
Commenting on the launch of the updated guide, FIS CEO Iain McIlwee said: “The guide to office fit-out and refurbishment was developed in 2017 by FIS but since then we have seen many changes in the market including the passing of the Building Safety Act which places new emphasis on safety and digitisation of construction data to fulfil the golden thread of information.
“The updated and revised guide will consider these significant changes whilst at the same time assist clients with the task of fitting out or refurbishing their offices and to promote best practice in the fit-out process.”
The guide is available from the FIS website.
With the current economic crisis resulting in higher prices and more of a squeeze on resources, FMs need to ensure that they have robust building and maintenance services in place to control costs and reduce the need for emergency repairs. When it comes to drainage and plumbing there are also the challenges of dealing with extreme weather, from droughts to flooding, the need to meet stringent regulations and to avoid causing environmental damage.
UK drainage specialist, Metro Rod, has launched a survey which explores the main areas of interest for FMs in maintaining drainage and plumbing, including how they currently assess their supply chains to ensure they’re working with partners that meet the highest possible standards and provide value for money.
The results will be published online so that you can see how you compare to others within the sector.
The survey should take just 5-10 minutes of your time, and as a thank you, you will be entered into a prize draw, where one lucky winner will be picked at random to receive a £100 Amazon voucher.
To take part click here.
