Adherence to safety key to real estate development

In every developing economy, real estate - as a part of infrastructure development will see a steep climb in demand and utilization. In fact, in many ways, it is this boom that leads to economic re-adjustments in the relevant area and hence, can be termed as a trend setter.

When we say real estate, it relates to commercial as well as residential buildings. Given the influx of international investors and inward corporate momentum, real estate can be no more an accommodation infrastructure. The demand for quality standards in occupational comforts and conveniences is the norm of the day. Quality standards cannot be dictated by a builder anymore, it is the prospective occupant who sets the parameters.  Uninterrupted access, smooth traffic flow, highest level of engineering efficiency for the infrastructure including electrical, mechanical and modular qualities, including connectivity facilities are some of the parameters expected. 

Indoor safety

These are fine for occupancy, but what if the building is occupied by maximum users?  The parameters then required are clean indoor environment quality levels - critical factors like clean indoor air quality, including clear air circulation, low noise levels, non-absorbent surfaces at ideal locations, waste clearance facility for fast and smooth clear up, collection and disposal (from food, wash areas), are some of the high priority features. In addition, the user also looks at safe occupancy, which includes clear escape routes, segregated hazard areas, suitable warning signages, fire proof materials, splinter proof glass, and handy hazard handling supports like fire extinguishers etc. It may also help in knowing that most buildings are focused on appearance based design and when it comes to maintaining them, there is hardly any facility for access or reach, especially the high rise buildings. A building façade which looks worn out and not maintained does not convey a healthy image inside too. 

The other prominent need is to make a building environmentally supportive by aiding in water conservation, recycling and distribution management. Similarly, utilizing professional waste management services will also encourage recycling of waste and a likelihood of using waste for energy. 

Managing facility

Clearly, the role of a facility manager is to ensure all the above functionary elements are indeed functioning - consistently and continuously at the determined levels. The success of a facility manager in real estate does not depend entirely on his capability, but on the permissible maintenance levels of the building itself.  In today's real estate constructions, safety is of paramount importance and one can find technology being improved upon to ensure quake resistant buildings and weather resistant coatings. People should be aware that water - in the form of moisture, is one of the most corrosive substances and is hazardous for buildings as it can transverse through the concrete and rust the steel. If the corroding continues it could lead to disasters such as building and wall collapsing resulting in casualties.

Moisture also leads to the growth of fungus which in turn encourages pathogenic build up on the affected area. This can affect the quality of indoor air. Hence, buildings need to have a design made and executed to prevent moisture build up or stagnation, which can pose a big challenge to constructors. Poor electrical conduits, poor quality pipelines and materials can only put the building at an increased risk. Hence to avoid such situations builders, management as well as occupants of the buildings should ensure adherence of highest safety standards.When an infrastructure is created with safety and health in mind, investment is never a pain. It's a pleasure. After all, a building does not house just elements, but humans too. 

Real estate boom & facility management

All the above discussed elements are especially valid for cities that are fast developing their infrastructure to meet the growing local demands. All major cities and towns these days are witnessing the development of malls, multiplexes, huge apartment complexes, commercial buildings etc. As this kind of development activity picks up, the real estate will boom for sometime to come. Certainly, with the help of the respective state governments and the initiative of the developers concerned cities across India can achieve high standards in real estate creation, construction and facility management in the years to come. 

Article written by Mr. Josyula S Shekar, Executive Director, Sinar Jernih (Indis) Private Limited