The weather is cold out there. You have projects to do for your buildings, but they all must be indoors now. But that leads to problems. Say you have a major painting job in your building, but you are under pressure not to inconvenience staff or customers. The paint job must be completed in a way that is least disruptive to daily operations.

Minimizing disruptions, of course, is something that should be taken into account in all projects, as is the health and safety of occupants and workers. While one normally focuses on keeping aisles clear for occupants to safely move around, it is also important to be aware of maintaining indoor air quality (IAQ). Therefore, look for effective coatings that also contain low or no volatile organic compounds (VOCs). They are not only better for IAQ for those potentially exposed, but give off less odors, reducing distractions.

IAQ issues are easier to address. A growing number of coating manufacturers make a line of paints with definitively lower emissions, and some directed to sensitive groups, such as children and the elderly. This is particularly helpful with projects in schools or healthcare facilities. Quick-drying coatings are advantageous. Odors are more subjective and is up to the individual. Emotions and other factors influence whether odors are detected and found to be annoying or distracting. As they say, “Somebody will always complain.” Odors top this list.

How to Start

Set a schedule so that painting is performed when there are the least users around and arrange ahead of time to stick to this schedule. For some facilities, it may or may not be a good idea to paint early in the morning when only a few people are around. It may be a good long-term strategy to paint late in the day and even let workers go home a little early. And paint into the evening. Perhaps there is a major meeting; that may be a good time to get in an hour or two of painting. Be sure to communicate times to affected staff, including which equipment or functions may not be available at what times to staff.

While Painting Goes On

Have sufficient fans present to blow the air, blowing away odors and VOCs and hastening the drying process. Be sure to rope off the areas that employees or customers should not trespass while painting goes on. One certainly does not want the enmity of somebody who accidentally gets in contact with wet paint.

Do the Job Right

One would like to minimize disturbances in the long-term. Therefore, use high-quality coatings that are durable and can withstand frequent cleaning and other conditions in the space (humidity, people effects, etc.). While this may cost more upfront, the building will save much in the long-term in reduced O&M efforts and costs and not having to paint the space again is some time.

CCES has the experts to help you plan all types of upgrades of equipment, between planning operations to procurement of equipment and commissioning that the installation is effective. Contact us today at karell@CCESworld.com or at 914-584-6720.