Green Building Operations & Maintenance Manual

This free guidebook was written for public housing authorities but can be used by owners and operators of other buildings, especially those with high-traffic public areas.

The manual, which was put together by Siemens Industry Inc. and the green operations certification group Green Seal, covers energy and water efficiency, recycling, lighting, landscaping, cleaning and purchasing. There are special sections for maintenance of roofs, parking lots and garages, and heating, ventilation and cooling systems.

The guidebook also tackles tenant education and engagement and provides advice on green maintenance and turnover of residential units.

The manual is customized for three climate regions — the north, southeast and southwest. The project was funded by several housing authorities through a Recovery Act grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

The guide can be downloaded at www.greenseal.org/GreenBuildingOM.aspx and www.greeningpublichousing.com.