Facility Management experts bemoans inadequate number of professionals

As the world gears up to celebrate Facility Management Day on May 8th, experts in Ghana are raising concerns about the alarming absence of facility managers in many buildings across the country.

According to industry insiders, this shortfall is not only jeopardizing the longevity of structures but also hindering their functionality.

The Facility and Property Manager at Heritage Homez, Linda Lanquaye Mills emphasized the detrimental impact of neglecting the presence of facility managers during the construction phase.

She attributed this phenomenon to the lack of involvement of facility managers in the selection of building materials and the overall construction process.

“There are many buildings that you will realize are going to be obsolete and the purpose for building the property cannot be realized,” Mills said to Nana Yaa Brefo and Isaac Ekow JB on Yen Nsempa, Onua FM, May 2.

Explaining further, Mills pointed out that without the input of facility managers, the materials used may not be conducive to the intended purpose of the structure.

This mismatch between materials and purpose she says often leads to inefficiencies, waste, and ultimately renders the building unfit for its intended use.

Additionally, Facility Manager for Fides Group, Anobah Hayford echoed Mills’ sentiments and stressed the importance of integrating facility managers into the construction of properties.

“Facility managers need to be involved from the onset to reduce waste and inefficiencies,” Hayford emphasized.

By actively participating in the construction process, facility managers can ensure that buildings are not only structurally sound but also optimized for their intended functions,”he said.

Moreover, Hayford highlighted the significance of fostering good human relationships within the realm of facility management.

According to him, strong human relationships serve as a cornerstone for ensuring property safety and operational effectiveness.

By cultivating positive interactions with tenants, contractors, and other stakeholders, facility managers can effectively address maintenance issues, mitigate risks, and enhance the overall experience of building occupants.

World Facilities Management Day is observed annually on the second full week of May, and this year, it falls on May 8th.

It serves as a global platform to recognize the vital role of facility management in sustaining built environments.

As this year’s celebration approaches, stakeholders are urged to reflect on the importance of integrating facility management practices into every stage of the building lifecycle.

Lois Dogbe