With tight budgets, operational funds are often the first item to get cut. Where the operation budgets leave off, capital budgets should come in. Many facility managers consult with custodial supervisors to find out what materials are easier to maintain before making a purchase. Take trash receptacles. Jelks says you can't have too many.
Litter is something that can have a serious effect on the image of a school.
Jelks maintains regular litter patrols and places many trash receptacles in key public areas, such as lobbies and rest-rooms. They aren't an eyesore or a nuisance, he says, if you keep them well maintained and emptied regularly. Jelks credo is don't buy cheap. Standing up to abuse Planning for maintainability also means specifying flooring and wall materials, doors and bathroom fixtures that will stand up to abuse. When it comes to flooring, most facility managers prefer hard surface flooring.