Facility managers are responsible for various tasks, including maintaining a safe and healthy work environment for employees and visitors. This includes complying with all applicable regulations, and there are several new ones that you’ll need to know for 2024.

Several new regulations have been enacted in recent years, and here are a few of the most important:

• OSHA COVID-19 regulations: The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has issued many regulations related to COVID-19. These regulations require employers to protect workers from exposure to the virus, such as providing masks and respirators, developing social distancing measures, and implementing cleaning and disinfecting procedures.
• Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) accessibility standards: The ADA has issued new accessibility standards for commercial buildings. These standards require businesses to make their buildings accessible to people with disabilities by providing accessible parking, ramps, and elevators.
• Energy efficiency standards: Many states have enacted new energy efficiency standards for buildings, including resource planning. These standards require businesses to reduce their energy consumption/efficiency by implementing measures such as installing energy-efficient lighting, monitoring heating/cooling usage, and analyzing least-cost options to explore life cycle costs.
• Sustainability regulations: A growing number of states and municipalities are enacting sustainability regulations for businesses. These regulations require businesses to reduce their environmental impact by implementing measures such as recycling, reducing waste, and using renewable energy. Roof coatings are a perfect example of sustainability because they minimize re-roof waste (and disruption), and many are manufactured from post-consumer recycled materials.

Facility managers must be familiar with all the applicable regulations in their jurisdiction. They should also develop a plan for complying with the regulations. This may involve updating guidelines signage, and informing building managers.

Another way to stay ahead and learn the latest in the facility management industry is to attend an upcoming trade show to learn best practices and network with other industry professionals.