Restrooms: Smart Specification

Part 1: Restrooms: Specification Starts with Preparation, Prevention

Part 2: Plumbing Technology Advances Help Meet Code Requirements

Part 3: Restrooms: Maintenance Should Focus on Shut-Off Valves

Part 4: Occupancy, Seasonal Changes Affect Restroom Maintenance

Part 5: Restrooms: Develop Standard Practices Manual

Restrooms: Develop Standard Practices Manual

By Thomas A. Westerkamp - March 2010 - Plumbing & Restrooms

One proven strategy for specifying restroom products successfully is to develop a manual of standard practices related to these products by searching trade literature and online resources, as well as talking with vendors. This approach helps in several ways.

First, referring to this manual when specifying products ensures the specifier selects a compatible product, technicians install it according to code, and inventory costs remain low. Also, the manual provides a ready reference when comparing and evaluating new products, keeping the restroom equipment up to date, and taking advantage of efficiencies that result through design improvements.

A key feature of the manual is the standard source list. This list describes each restroom component group and the authorized suppliers, and provides supplier contact information. Examples of component groups are baby-changing stations, door hardware, dispensers, electrical equipment, HVAC, hand dryers, partitions, urinal screens, plumbing fixtures, tile, and trash receptacles.

Specification standards generate savings because they limit duplication of parts, assemblies and services, and ensure predictable costs and timely delivery.

Another feature is a limit on attic stock. Management sets a dollar limit on the amount of spares and leftovers from earlier construction that can accumulate, keeping a cap on inventory costs and required storage space. Managers often can sell the excess back to the supplier.