Is Your Facility’s Operations & Maintenance Program Up to Date?
How a Network of Resorts is Keeping Guests Safe from Asbestos
A CASE STUDY
An extensive network of resorts throughout North America was confronted with the intricate task of modernizing its asbestos operations and maintenance (O&M) programs. It was a large undertaking. Numerous high-end resorts and a multitude of buildings on large campuses with asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) needed updated or entirely new O&M plans.
GHP designed solutions to meet the demands of selected sites and prioritized those requiring immediate attention. We refined current O&M surveys, initiated new ones where none existed, and ensured that each facility's program was comprehensive and up-to-date. This protects the well-being of resort staff and guests while avoiding health effects from disturbance of ACMs.
Project Highlights
Timeline:
12 Months
Project Size:
44 resorts across North America
21 U.S. states, Canada, and Mexico.
Project Scope:
Update O&M plans and work practices for ACMs
Create asbestos O&M programs for sites that lacked one
Schedule work to create minimal disruption for building occupants
Challenges and Objectives
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) defines ACMs as materials that contain more than 1% asbestos by weight. ACMs and presumed asbestos-containing materials (PACM) can be found in places such as thermal system insulation (TSI), surfacing materials, wallboard, floor tile, and roofing. Asbestos is more common in buildings constructed before the 1980s.
GHP had 12 months to make certain that the client’s asbestos O&M programs were effective and up-to-date. We needed to ensure the compatibility of each resort's requirements with a standardized O&M program while also integrating different state and federal regulations, including the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).
In addition, our team had to navigate the logistics of creating a schedule that catered to facility maintenance work while minimizing disruption to ongoing operations. This required meticulous planning and an adaptable approach to on-site surveys. We carefully timed our surveys to coincide with periods of minimal impact on resort guests and operations.
Solutions
GHP took a variety of steps to develop comprehensive O&M programs that addressed asbestos management and any possible abatement:
Client Communication
Held in-depth pre-visit discussions with facility management directors to communicate the objectives and processes of our operations. This prior engagement minimized on-site disruptions, enabling swift and precise updates.
Baseline Evaluation
Evaluated the existing O&M documentation at each facility to set a reference point for improvement.
On-site Assessment
Conducted on-site assessments with facility managers to understand operational histories and maintenance practices. Our accredited specialists inspected areas with asbestos materials or asbestos fibers. Generally, if ACMs are in good condition and remain undisturbed, they do not present an immediate risk of inhalation.
Data Integration and Recordkeeping
Compiled analysis and data from surveys and asbestos inspections into detailed reports. Reports included updated drawings, photo logs, and lab results for each facility. On average, it took a month to complete a facility report. Documentation provided a historical overview and current status of the infrastructure and maintenance routines.
Results
The O&M plans at the client’s facilities included details such as:
Asbestos awareness training for relevant employees
A maintenance plan to avoid asbestos fiber release episodes
Response actions, including emergency response in case asbestos abatement projects or cleanup becomes necessary
With an updated O&M program, the staff across various departments – from housekeeping to custodial to facilities maintenance – are now equipped to undertake daily tasks with increased safety and efficiency. This fosters a proactive approach to safety compliance and avoids asbestos hazards. GHP’s work has ensured that potential risks are identified and managed long before they affect the health of resort guests and staff members.
Conclusion
Whether your facility needs to update an existing O&M program or does not have one at all, engaging a third-party certified asbestos professional can help streamline the process for your building operations.
GHP prioritizes pre-interviews, client education, and clear communication. That way, facility managers and building owners can manage hazardous materials, avert airborne asbestos, and maintain compliance with health and safety standards. Should you need help updating or creating your facility's O&M program, our team of accredited professionals is prepared to assist.