by Brianna Crandall — March 11, 2020 — As the new coronavirus disease (COVID-19) and accompanying concerns continue to spread globally, the International Facility Management Association (IFMA) is working to keep the FM community updated with the latest news, resources and information to help with emergency preparedness.
IFMA has created a new online Coronavirus Preparedness Resource Center containing health and safety content as well as educational opportunities and resources on infection prevention and control, strategic preparedness and risk management. IFMA says the page will be continually updated with the latest information, learning opportunities and materials.
The page links to FMJ articles on emergency preparedness, developing a facility safety program, risk management, fighting infections with ultraviolet (UV) light, vapor intrusion, IAQ and more, and lists an upcoming webinar by IFMA’s Hong Kong Chapter on how to build a bio-resilient workplace against COVID-19.
It also features official information from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), and the World Health Organization (WHO) such as situational reports and guidance for schools, business and airlines on preparing for an outbreak.
In addition, the Coronavirus page lists relevant discussions on IFMA’s Engage platform on such topics as proactive HVAC systems maintenance and IAQ; coronavirus mitigation plans; and recommendations for commercial microbial disinfectants.
Resources from other organizations include cleaning and prevention guidance from ISSA, business implications from McKinsey & Company, building systems preparedness resources from ASHRAE, environmental cleaning guidance from the ECDC, articles from FlagShip Facility Services, 3M coronavirus outbreak resources, a coronavirus event planning guide, and tips from Gensler on keeping track of your employees.
The page also provides links to checklists and downloads of EPA pre-approved antimicrobial products, building safety solutions, WHO preparedness planning and CDC healthcare facility preparedness, as well as other healthcare-specific resources.
If you or a colleague has something to add to this list of resources, IFMA is also accepting submissions for the page.
Visit IFMA’s Coronavirus Preparedness Resource Center to access the content. IFMA advises readers to bookmark this page and check back often for updates.
