Primary and Secondary Schools
Schools need more than desks, chairs and blackboards. Today's schools require a high level of comfort and convenience and rely more than ever on sophisticated electrical and electronic equipment. Like any large building, that means they may have complicated heating, cooling and ventilation systems. Computer systems and computer workstations are an important teaching aid and some school districts provide laptops to their students. Security systems and communications equipment are growing increasingly complex and are being installed in more schools nationwide.
Many schools operate refrigeration and cooking equipment for full-service kitchens and cafeterias. Most have an auditorium or theater, sometimes with sophisticated lighting, multi-media projection and sound systems. Wood, metal and auto shops require mechanical and electrical equipment. Office and administration equipment is much the same as that found in any business. The operation of all this equipment depends on an outside power supply and internal electrical distribution system that can deteriorate unnoticed because the equipment is out of sight.
An equipment breakdown risks more than costly damage and business interruption. The breakdown of air conditioning or heating equipment, for example, can shut down a school, which can interrupt learning, cancel student/parent activities and raise concerns in the community. Extra expenses often result from a breakdown when schools must rent temporary equipment such as boilers, generators and air conditioning units to remain open. Spoilage is a concern when refrigeration equipment breaks down.
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