OVERVIEW OF MAINTENANCE(
Why Maintain Buildings?
Buildings not maintained will cease to fulfill their intended functions. Wear and tear set in immediately after buildings are constructed. Individual components eventually fail, in turn causing damage to other components; for example, internal water damage due to a leak in a roof. Failing components have to be repaired or a building's ability to protect against foul weather, to keep safe equipment and furniture, etc. will eventually be lost.
Regular maintenance, attending to defects while they are still minor, is the most cost-effective strategy for providing well functioning buildings and will reduce operating costs.
Buildings not maintained have a limited life span. Maintenance can prolong their useful life almost indefinitely. Replacement will be required less often, resources will be conserved and the environment protected. Still, buildings might need to be replaced for reasons such as obsoleteness, changes in space requirements, etc. Moderate inputs - in relation to replacement costs -into maintenance enable operators to extend the life of an existing building until a replacement is wanted.
A poorly maintained building is usually a poor working environment likely to reduce the staffs job motivation. Poor maintenance often also leads the public to question the quality of services delivered by an institution. Maintenance does not automatically provide a good working environment. Yet, maintenance helps to create conditions that are not uncomfortable or directly harmful to staff, other users and equipment- essential for an efficient and satisfying working environment. And, it will boost an institution's public image.
Awareness, Attitudes and Regulations
2 Awareness and Attitudes
Poor maintenance is usually a result of lack of conscious- ness and knowledge among one or more of the parties operating institutional buildings.
Decision makers and planners...