By Jonathan Styrlund, ARC Facilities — As artificial intelligence (AI) becomes increasingly popular, FM professionals are asking themselves: How does AI fit into their daily work? Should it? How or why should they use it? Large organizations might view AI as an expansive solution aimed at integrating all operational tools for C-suite efficiency, or analyzing massive data sets. But this approach doesn’t necessarily serve the needs of frontline technicians. Facility management must prioritize actionable, immediate solutions that can improve workflow efficiency and reduce downtime without requiring significant training or time. Read more

If it wasn’t already on your radar, fluorescent lamp bans are already in place or are soon to be in place in many states, with the intent of replacing existing fluorescent lights with light-emitting diode (LED) bulbs in order to increase energy efficiency, reduce environmental impact, lower costs and prevent exposure to toxic mercury. Are your facilities prepared to stay compliant?

According to the Appliance Standards Awareness Project’s (ASAP) Clean Lighting site, January 1, 2025, is the phase-out date for pin-base CFL and linear fluorescent lamps in California, Colorado, Oregon and Rhode Island, and is also the phase-out date for screw-base CFL lamps in Colorado, Hawaii and Minnesota. FMLink editors have compiled resources to help you determine the regulations in the state or states in which your organization operates, navigate the switch to LED lighting, and obtain any available rebates and incentives before they expire. Read more

As electric vehicles (EVs) continue to reshape the automotive landscape, the integration of vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology offers transformative potential for both the energy grid and vehicle owners, finds IDTechEx. V2G enables bi-directional energy transfer, allowing EVs to not only draw power from the grid but also return energy to it, effectively making EVs mobile batteries. This concept aligns with the broader trend of vehicle-to-everything (V2X) technology, which encompasses various forms of bi-directional energy exchange. Read more

Facility managers, building managers and sustainable environment professionals can learn how to use emerging tech during the AHR Expo, the International Air-Conditioning, Heating, Refrigerating Exposition, the annual trade show that convenes HVACR professionals, manufacturers and industry leaders to showcase the latest trends and advancements in the industry. Taking place at the Orange County Convention Center, FM attendees will learn how to operate their buildings using automation, new technologies, AI, carbon-reduction measures and standards that improve air quality and thermal comfort. Read more

"Empowering People. Advancing Practice" is the theme for NFMT in Baltimore, March 25-27, 2025. The National Facilities Management & Technology Conference and Expo offers tiered pricing with free admission to the Expo, followed by the $79 ProLevel, and the $149 Elite Level. Of the education sessions, Conference Sessions and Huddles are open to Pro and Elite attendees, while Learning Labs at the designated Product Zones offer valuable education for all attendees. 300+ exhibitors will be present on the Expo floor. Click to find session recommendations from The McMorrow Reports + FMLink. Read more

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has released updated guidance on indoor air quality (IAQ) strategies for preventing the spread of common respiratory viruses in homes, schools, offices and commercial buildings. EPA’s updated guidance reflects the latest science on IAQ strategies and recent ventilation recommendations from the CDC. This multilayered approach also addresses the use of air treatment technologies, administrative controls, and cleaning and disinfection practices. The updated guidance also outlines specific strategies and considerations for various public indoor spaces. Read more

This week's Featured Book from FMLink Books is part of a collection of peer-reviewed books curated by the FMLink editorial team to provide facilities, engineering and A&D professionals with access to publications relating to the OSHA Safety topic.

Designed for use by the OSHA Training Institute Education Centers as part of the curriculum for the OSHA 500 Train-the-Trainer program. What Everyone Must Know About OSHA: General Industry provides managers, supervisors, safety personnel and more with the tools and knowledge needed to ensure workplace safety.

This and other OSHA Safety titles are available for purchase on FMLink.