Top Stories
New LSC Generator Increases Capacity for Research
The Life Sciences Centre received a new generator last week, currently being installed. This second generator increases reliability for critical research in the building and increases the capacity to take on new loads for new research as well as key building systems and equipment.
The benefits include:
- Reduced load on the existing generator, thus increasing its reliability.
- Ability to add more essential loads within the capacity of the (combined) generator capabilities. This means a potential of up to 3.6MW of generator connected equipment.
Moreover, best practice recommends not to exceed 90% of any single generator’s rating. Regulatory requirements also dictate that one of the generators cannot exceed 80% of its rating for life safety purposes.
Now when researchers want to install new equipment that needs back-up power, we can say yes!
Vehicle Inspection Forms Updated
Our Vehicle Inspection Form used for weekly vehicle inspections have been revised to include Electric Vehicle specific inspections. These forms are now available at the garage—but please use up the existing (old) forms first.
Compost garden is a living reminder of what can happen with a little innovation
UBC’s Zero-Waste Action Plan includes a goal of reaching 80% composting and recycling by 2020. But what to do with all that compost?
John Mann, the assistant compost operator at UBC’s compost facility, transforms UBC’s organic waste into rich soil for landscaping and gardening.
For two years now he’s been fostering a 15ft x 10ft garden with many large vegetables and plants—100% natural and free from fertilizers, pesticides and herbicides. Many of his plants reach incredible sizes, and he predicts that this year his corn stalks will reach 10 feet tall!
John’s garden is a living reminder of what can happen with a little innovation and hard work. Read more at www.ubc.ca/stories/2017-spring/ or view the original posts on Instagram.
The Qualities of a Custodian
By Nicolas Banquero, Building Ops-Custodial
“A custodian performs the cleaning and maintenance functions on the day or evening shift. However, this does not simply mean cleaning and taking care of the building. A custodian also has a bigger responsibility, and that is to see to the wellbeing of their colleagues. Such holistic view contributes to the smooth function of the entire team. For me, a real custodian is one who has the qualities of a C-U-S-T-O-D-I-A-N.
CHARACTER
First, a custodian must have CHARACTER, one that radiates to others and to the rest of the organization. This can be seen not only in one’s physical appearance but also from within.
UNDERSTANDING
Sensitive to the needs of the client and their fellow workers, a good custodian understand other people within the organization.
SERVICE TO OTHERS
In their work, a custodian inspires that service to others is the most dignified of all occupations.
TRUSTWORTHINESS
They are self-driven and do not need to be directed in everything they do because once oriented to the work, they will surely deliver.
OBEDIENCE
Being obedient to the immediate superior reflects not only humility but shows sheer confidence in the organization which should merit, among others, being given the bigger task and responsibility.
DARING
They are not afraid to put themselves on the line when situation calls for it. If it makes the organization better, they will stake for it.
INSPIRING
In each work and task, they commit not only to accomplish but also to help fulfill the mission and mandate of the organization.
ACTIVE LISTENER
They not only listen to other people’s concerns; they also see to the other person’s welfare.
NON-JUDGEMENTAL
A custodian is one who does not readily pass judgement to others. When a bad situation happens, they stick to the facts and is not easily swayed by other people’s perceptions or emotions. When in doubt, however, they will be level-headed enough to decide what is for the good of the people involved and/or the organization.
I believe that these qualities all contribute to the concept of a good custodian, one with not just the aptitude but also the right attitude.”
Thanks for the submission Nicolas, we agree with you.