Building Operations is thrilled about the opportunities that lie ahead in 2024, and we’re excited to continue our partnership with you. Stay up with to date with Building Operations in 2024 and learn more about us below.
Embrace the Chill: Winter Tree Care Tips for a Blooming Spring
The winter is an ideal time to care for your arboreal companions, offering advantages that can last well into spring.
1. Cost-Effective Pruning:
Pruning trees during the dormant season is a cost-effective investment in their long-term well-being. This practice trims excess branches, reduces potential hazards, and lowers future pruning costs, giving your trees a winter makeover for a vibrant appearance in spring.
2. Stress-Free Winter Pruning:
Winter pruning is surprisingly stress-free for trees, contrary to popular belief. With leaves gone and slowed growth, trees experience minimal shock, allowing for shaping without undue strain. Take advantage of this time to ensure they wake up in spring with renewed life.
3. A Springtime Spectacle:
Gift your trees a head start on springtime beauty through winter pruning, creating a carefully sculpted silhouette. This practice encourages growth, vibrant foliage, and an overall healthier appearance, resulting in a breathtaking visual display for your outdoor space.
4. Storm-Ready Trees:
Protect your trees from winter storms by inspecting for weak or damaged branches. Regular winter tree care ensures a storm-ready state, minimizing potential damages and contributing to a safer outdoor environment for your property and arboreal companions.
Don’t let the winter chill prevent you from tending to your trees; use it as an opportunity to invest in your trees’ health. Taking care of your trees in the winter will ensure they emerge in spring with life and vitality, enhancing your outdoor space’s beauty.
Safety Alert: Elevator Emergency Operation Phase II
The Board of Elevator Regulations has identified a safety issue during the Firefighter’s Emergency Operation Phase II. In certain cases, the door may continue to open after the firefighter releases the button, posing risks.
Determination: In elevators with FEO Phase II operation panel (sec. 2.27.3.3.7), an in-car stop-switch is not required during Phase II operation. An alternative solution is available for safety concerns, effective immediately.
Action Required: FS90 in-car stop-switch must be corrected by the 2024 annual elevator inspection. The deadline for permit application was 12/31/2023. Failure to correct may lead to inspection failure and elevator placarding.
Repairs: Permits required for alterations. Elevator contractors must apply in IPS, detailing repair plans. Inspection of FS90 in-car stop-switch during the 2024 annual elevator inspection.
The links below provide a flowchart that illustrates which elevators fall within this group and the testing procedures the Office of Public Safety and Inspection will follow.
Need help avoiding elevator inspection issues? Building Operations can coordinate with elevator companies. Contact us today for assistance.
2024 Engineering & Construction Industry Outlook
Sustainable Practices & Tech Advancements
Deloitte’s 2024 outlook highlights challenges in the Energy & Industrials sector, despite a 7% increase in 2023 value addition. Anticipate a construction boost in 2024 linked to manufacturing, transportation, and clean energy infrastructure, fueled by legislation funds (IIJA, IRA, CHIPS Act). Explore the Five Key Areas for E&C Firms in 2024.
Sustainable Practices:
- Industry adapting to market trends and environmental regulations.
- US government prioritizing sustainable construction through initiatives like the Federal Buy Clean Initiative.
- Strategies include reducing embodied carbon, passive design, and use of energy-efficient equipment.
Digitalization & Generative AI:
- Rise of generative AI poised to transform project design, schedule optimization, cost controls, and safety.
- E&C firms actively exploring generative AI’s potential for enhancing efficiencies.
- Continued investment in digital technologies, including drones, autonomous vehicles, BIM, and IoT sensors.
Economic Uncertainty:
- Ongoing effects of economic uncertainty, interest rate hikes, and inflation.
- Varied impact across residential and non-residential segments.
- The nonresidential segment is expected to grow with funds from legislation like the CHIPS Act and IIJA.
Cost Volatility:
- Construction firms grappling with significant cost pressures.
- Labor costs and material prices fluctuate.
- Strategies to navigate cost increases include fixed payment terms, supply chain management, and cost/overhead management.
Workforce Norms:
- The E&C industry facing a significant labor gap.
- Job openings totaling 350,000, with challenges in filling skilled positions.
- Strategies include embracing the gig economy, upskilling programs, prioritizing worker safety, and offering competitive compensation.
Future Strategies:
- Embrace sustainable construction economics.
- Invest in digital foundation with BIM and robotics.
- Leverage data-driven insights for decision-making.
- Invest in workforce development and automation tools.
- Embrace change for strategic growth.
The E&C industry, resilient and adaptable, emphasizes agility through digital transformation. Despite challenges, the industry is resilient, and as it enters 2024, a focus on sustainability and efficiency underscores the need for nimbleness. Digital transformation, including generative AI, enhances efficiency, cuts costs, and creates new opportunities. E&C firms are urged to strategically embrace change by incorporating sustainability, investing in digital foundations, leveraging data-driven insights, and prioritizing workforce development to navigate uncertainty and seize opportunities in the evolving macroeconomic landscape.
Join in transforming the blueprint for responsible business!
Discover the pathways to responsible business practices with BOMA’s upcoming live web event on 02/14/2024. This session will explore tailored decarbonization strategies, shedding light on facility decarbonization complexities and how decision-making aligns with organizational priorities.
Healthcare’s 2024 Outlook – Key Component
Discover the future of healthcare in 2024 by exploring the five critical components outlined in JLL’s Healthcare Real Estate Outlook. These key trends include the impact of real estate, structural imbalances in talent pipelines, persistent consolidation, new entrants like tech and private equity, and the growing role of artificial intelligence (AI).
Building Operations Services
Construction & Development
Building Operations manages new construction and redevelopment for various industries. Our experience enables us to develop innovative designs and align budgets and expectations for successful and sustainable projects.
What We Do:
- Ground Up Development
- Site Development
- Value Add Renovations
- Utility
- Historical Restoration
- Building Envelope
- Analysis & Design
- Tenant Improvements
- Clean Energy Designs