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Are you considering purchasing an industrial building? If yes, you should consider safety and maintenance as your top priority. Performing an industrial building inspection is a great way to identify any issues surrounding your building. It helps you know if your property has been maintained to current safety recommendations and ensures you can maintain a great working environment.
Let’s take a deep dive into what to expect during industrial building inspections and why they are a crucial part of owning an industrial building.
What is an Industrial Building Inspection?
An industrial building inspection is a comprehensive evaluation of a commercial building to check its condition and identify all the operational as well as structural defects. In addition, it also helps you determine whether you are following all the safety guidelines or not. These inspections are typically performed by qualified professionals, such as building inspectors or engineers, who have years of experience with industrial structures.
Why Should You Perform Industrial Building Inspections?
Industrial buildings, including factories, warehouses, or processing plants, have complex systems and machinery. Therefore, conducting regular industrial inspections is essential for a wide range of reasons, including:
Insurance: Insurance providers often require inspections to assess the risk profile of the building. Regular inspections can help ensure coverage and lower premiums.
Maintenance: Inspections can detect minor issues that, if left unattended, could develop into major problems. Timely maintenance and repairs can save costs and prevent disruptions to operations.
Safety: Ensuring the safety of workers and visitors is paramount. Inspections help identify potential hazards, such as faulty electrical systems, structural weaknesses, or fire risks before accidents occur.
What to Expect During an Industrial Building Inspection
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The specific process and scope of an industrial building inspection may vary depending on the size and complexity of the facility. However, here are the common elements you can expect:
Pre-Inspection Preparation
In pre-inspection preparation, the industrial inspector will review your commercial building plans, permits, and maintenance records. They will examine all the relevant documentation to familiarize themselves with the facility. It helps them identify specific areas of concern during the inspection.
Visual Examination
Your industrial inspector will conduct a visual inspection of both the interior and exterior of your industrial building. They will look for signs of damage, deterioration, or wear and tear. This may include inspecting doors, roofs, flooring, windows, and other structural components.
Systems Inspection
Industrial buildings have various systems that are vital to their operations. Your inspector will assess the condition and functionality of electrical, plumbing, fire protection, HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning), and other systems. Moreover, they may also check for adherence to relevant codes and regulations.
Machinery and Equipment
If your facility operates specialized machinery or equipment, the inspector will evaluate their condition, safety features, and maintenance records. They will check for any operational issues, potential risks, or signs of malfunction.
Documentation and Reporting
After the inspection, the inspector will provide you with a detailed report summarizing their findings. This report will highlight any deficiencies, recommendations for repairs or maintenance, and potential safety hazards. You must review this report carefully and address the specified issues promptly.
What Happens After the Inspection?
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After the industrial building inspector has conducted the inspection, you should take action based on the findings of their report. Here's what you can expect and how to proceed further:
Address Identified Issues
Start tackling the identified issues promptly. Create a plan of action to address each problem systematically. Some issues may require immediate repairs, while others may necessitate ongoing maintenance. Make sure to allocate the necessary resources, such as time, budget, and personnel, to resolve the problems effectively.
Seek Professional Help
Depending on the complexity of the issues, you may need to engage professionals, such as contractors or specialists, to assist with repairs or maintenance. They will have the expertise and experience to handle the specific challenges identified during your industrial inspection.
Update Your Maintenance Plan
Use the inspection report as a roadmap to improve your facility's maintenance plan. Incorporate the recommendations and ensure regular inspections are scheduled in the future. Preventive maintenance can save you time and money by addressing potential problems before they escalate.
Communicate with Your Stakeholders
If you own or manage the industrial building, it's crucial to communicate the inspection findings and the actions being taken to relevant stakeholders. This may include employees, tenants, or regulatory authorities. Transparency and clear communication build trust and ensure everyone is aware of the steps being taken to maintain a safe environment.
LightHouse Commercial is your one-stop destination to get the best industrial inspection services from highly experienced and certified professionals. Call us at 800.334.7302 today to acquire our services or to explore more about us.