Retirement living communities require a proactive and specialised approach to the role of facility management to ensure the safety, comfort, and long-term sustainability of their properties. With an ageing population and increasing regulatory requirements, modern facility managers play a crucial role in navigating new technologies and ensuring compliance.
According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW), as of June 30, 2022, nearly 213,000 Australians aged 65 and over were utilising home care services, a sharp rise from 69,500 in 2017. This growing trend highlights the increasing need for well-managed retirement living facilities that prioritise safety, compliance, and cost-effective maintenance solutions. This article will explore the key role of facility management in achieving these goals.
Incorporating cutting-edge solutions such as non-slip coating technology and nanotechnology-based protective coatings can significantly improve safety, reduce maintenance costs, and extend the lifespan of building assets. Here’s how these innovations are transforming the retirement living space and why your facility manager is essential in implementing them effectively.
1. The Role of Facility Management in Implementing Non-Slip Coating Technology: Reducing Risk and Enhancing Compliance
Slips and falls are one of the leading causes of injury in retirement communities, making non-slip flooring solutions a critical investment for both internal and external surfaces.
A key role of facility management is identifying and implementing solutions like Stellmann Non-Slip Coating Technology, which provides advanced anti-slip solutions that:
- Reduce the risk of falls and injuries, improving safety for residents.
- Enhance compliance with Australian safety regulations.
- Offer durability and low-maintenance protection for walkways, bathrooms, dining halls, and outdoor areas.
- UV-resistant properties ensure long-term effectiveness on external surfaces, preventing material degradation.
- Eco-friendly formulation, reducing environmental impact and improving air quality.
💡 Example: A retirement village in Brisbane applied Stellmenn’s non-slip technology in communal areas, leading to a 35% reduction in reported slip incidents over 12 months.
2. The Role of Facility Management in Utilizing Nanotechnology-Based Protective Coatings: Saving Time, Reducing Costs & Increasing Asset Longevity
Buildings in retirement communities are subject to wear and tear due to high foot traffic, frequent cleaning, and exposure to environmental factors. Nanotechnology-based protective coatings offer an innovative solution for preserving surfaces and reducing maintenance costs on both internal and external areas.
Another crucial role of facility management is overseeing the application of solutions like Nanoman Protective Coatings, which provide:
- Ultra-thin, invisible layers that protect surfaces from dirt, grime, moisture, and UV exposure.
- UV-resistant technology for external applications, protecting against fading, cracking, and material degradation.
- Reduced cleaning and maintenance costs by preventing stains and surface degradation.
- Extended asset lifespan, minimising wear on flooring, walls, and high-use areas.
- Eco-friendly and chemical-resistant properties, making them safe for residents and staff while reducing reliance on harsh cleaning agents.
- Meets Australian safety and compliance standards, ensuring regulatory adherence.
💡 Example: A retirement community implemented Nanoman protective coatings on exterior walls and pathways, reducing the need for frequent cleaning and repairs while maintaining a fresh appearance year-round.
“As of June 30, 2022, nearly 213,000 Australians aged 65 and over were utilizing home care services, a sharp rise from 69,500 in 2017. This growing trend highlights the increasing need for well-managed retirement living facilities that prioritise safety, compliance, and cost-effective maintenance solutions.”
Facility Managers evaluate, source, and oversee the application of these advanced coatings, ensuring that the right solution is applied for each specific material and use case.
3. How Facility Managers Bridge the Gap Between Innovation & Implementation
While new technologies like non-slip coatings and nanotechnology offer clear benefits, successful implementation requires expert oversight and strategic planning. This is where an experienced Facility Manager becomes invaluable.
A core role of facility management is bridging the gap between innovation and practical application. A Facility Manager ensures:
- Proper assessment of internal and external surfaces before applying new coatings.
- Vendor selection and coordination with trusted suppliers such as Stellmenn and Nanoman.
- Regulatory compliance with Australian safety, sustainability, and building maintenance standards.
- Ongoing performance tracking to measure the effectiveness of new technologies.
💡 Example: A facility manager at a large retirement village successfully coordinated the application of Nanoman coatings on high-use flooring, leading to a 40% reduction in maintenance costs over two years.
Final Thoughts: Future-Proofing Retirement Living Facilities with Smart Facility Management
As the retirement living sector evolves, embracing innovative solutions like non-slip coatings and nanotechnology is essential to maintaining safe, cost-effective, and high-quality facilities. However, the key to success is having a Facility Manager who can strategically implement these technologies while ensuring compliance, efficiency, and asset protection. The multifaceted roles of facility management are critical to the success of any retirement community.
By adopting these solutions, retirement communities can better meet the needs of their residents, ensuring a safer and more sustainable living environment.
At Baker FM, we specialise in integrating advanced facility management solutions to help retirement communities reduce risks, cut costs, and enhance long-term sustainability.
