New research from Watco, the industrial paint and repair products specialist, has examined the complexities affecting facilities managers (FM) within production and manufacturing, uncovering several challenges around labour supply and safety.
The survey found that almost half (48%) of FMs often worry that there is a skills shortage in the sector with 42% saying that it’s difficult to find good employees and 38% saying facilities management isn’t an attractive enough career option for young people.
Challenges around labour supply were reflected in a report by The Food and Drink Federation, who stated labour challenges have remained stubborn within manufacturing, particularly within food and drink manufacturing.
Further to challenges attracting people into the industry and filling vacancies, 42% say their workload has grown over the past 12 months and 34% feel a lot of pressure in their job, with more than a third (36%) admitting they often make mistakes because they have a lot on their plate.
Scott Saunders, technical service manager at Watco, commented: “FMs in the production and manufacturing industry are tasked with maximising output and adhering to changing regulations in line with the sector’s requirements. However, these heavy workloads are clearly taking their toll on the industry’s FMs, with respondents feeling the pressure and making mistakes. FMs have many critical responsibilities including ensuring the health and safety of the facility, therefore mistakes and concerns must be addressed with better support.
“FMs should look to third parties for resources, e.g. sharing the Health and Safety Executive’s guide to managing stress at work with the team. The guide provides useful tips which can help to prevent burnout and job dissatisfaction. FMs should also consider how their supplier’s expertise and resources can help to lighten workloads and standardise processes. For example, our Watco checklists which can be used to ensure thorough site inspections to identify damages for a swift repair.”
The research also uncovered wider challenges affecting FMs. Aside from navigating workforce pressures, the factors they believe pose the largest risks to the health and safety of their facility are:
- Fire safety
- Damaged floors/surfaces
- Time constraints
- Having to meet changing standards and legislations
- Budget constraints
34% also stated that their business regularly goes over budget on urgent repair work to remove hazards, while 40% aren’t aware of potential hazards and do not know how to report or control risks.
Scott added: “The earlier damage is spotted, the more likely FMs will be able to prevent accidents and minimise the cost and time spent on the repair. Training and signage on the process for identifying, reporting and addressing hazards will make this much easier. Keeping a supply of solutions regularly-used for repairs alongside resources on how to carry them out will help to empower the FM team to conduct reactive repairs when damage is reported in the facility too.”
For more information on the challenges facing the production and manufacturing sector and tips from the experts, download Watco’s free one-page report here.
