Is your workplace compliant?

One of the most critical elements that falls within the remit of facilities management (FM) is compliance.

Initially it can appear to be a complex issue, particularly as failure to adhere to the regulations that govern the safety and security of buildings and their occupants can lead to hefty fines or even custodial sentences for building owners, landlords and managers.

Outsourcing the provision of FM operations to a third-party company is one way in which an organisation can ensure it is meeting compliance obligations. An FM provider should be abreast of any changes in regulation, enabling for clients the peace of mind which comes from knowing that all relevant areas of regulation are covered, with no disruption to business.

What are the key areas of compliance?

Whether they be the codes of practice and detailed guidance that relate to water systems and legionella bacteria, or the LOLER and PUWER regulations which govern the safety of lifts, in practice compliance covers every aspect of a workplace.

While it can seem complicated, the six key laws which apply in workplace environments are sometimes described as the ‘six pack’. These refer to the main health and safety regulations in the UK which came into effect following EU directives issued as far back as 1993. They dictate both how staff members and the public should be kept safe in the workplace.

Health and safety are issues at the core of statutory compliance and, while an FM provider is responsible for making sure regulations are followed, the obligations are those of the building owner or landlord.

Taking direct responsibility

At Pyndar, we offer a range of services from cleaning and hygiene checks to maintenance and repairs. For whichever service you require, any associated areas of compliance will form part of our remit and we will assume direct responsibility.

We are specialists who understand the practice and legal framework of all areas of facilities management. If we are maintaining assets within a workplace, as a matter of course we will ensure that all compliance issues are dealt with correctly and efficiently.

Proactive and responsive support

We go beyond maintenance, however. With many years of expertise, we take the initiative to advise on FM matters both as we see fit and whenever clients require assistance.

For example, the Portable appliance testing (PAT) of electrical appliances is often only advisory; HSE guidance merely recommends formal, logged visual inspections which can be carried out quickly and easily by non-specialists. However, the law in fact requires that all electrical equipment provided be safe and properly maintained. Therefore PAT testing is often considered a critical part of workplace health and safety. But if this simple obligation has not been addressed and something goes wrong, it is the building manager who can find themselves facing heavy penalties.

It is also important to check the small print of any building insurance policies. Often, businesses learn too late that it is quite standard for insurers not to pay, for instance if they identify that failure to adhere to guidance has led to a faulty appliance starting a fire.

Our experienced teams are trained and encouraged to take the initiative. They actively look for sources of concern beyond their formal remit, reporting any potential safety concerns so they can be dealt with swiftly, which in turn means that our clients’ workplaces always look smart for team members and visitors alike.

Christopher Eames, Managing Director at Pyndar says: “Ensuring our clients stay compliant is one of the core elements of the FM services we provide. Our experienced team understand the legislative and compliance frameworks that our clients operate within, and how these may vary from one site to the next.

We have the correct processes in place to ensure that regular inspections are completed, and any non-compliant issues will be quickly rectified. But our processes are not simply a means to an end; they are part of a bigger picture that is all about creating outstanding workplaces where people can be their best.”

Our goal is always to deliver an excellent level of service so that our clients can execute their business operations more efficiently. Should additional support be required, we are here to help them navigate the complexities of compliance.

To find out more, visit our Compliance page, call 020 3488 1280, or email transform@pyndar.uk.