Bidvest Noonan

A leading provider of Facilities Management Servicess

Expertise

How Facilities Management in Airports Enhances Passenger Safety

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Airports are among some of the busiest and most complex environments in the world. Every day, tens of thousands of people move through busy terminals, navigate car parks, security areas, and retail zones, each with different individual needs and expectations. Families, business travellers, and passengers with reduced mobility all share the same routes and facilities, relying on everything around them to work safely and efficiently.

Managing such a vast and high-pressure environment requires extraordinary precision. Every system, surface, and service have a role to play in keeping people safe. From the cleanliness of floors and air quality to the reliability of escalators and lighting, airport facilities management safety underpins the smooth operation of the entire airport.

At Bidvest Noonan, our people, technologies, and expertise are dedicated to ensuring that airports remain secure, hygienic, and reliable. We understand that passenger safety is a defining feature of a successful airport experience.

Managing Some of the Most Complex Spaces in the World

Airports in particular are complex spaces, combining restricted zones, and high-security areas, each with its own risks and regulations. Managing this mix is a challenge unlike any other in facilities management. The goal is to ensure that every element works in harmony so that passengers can move freely and safely from the moment they enter the terminal until they board their flight. This is the everyday challenge of airport FM safety. It is a continuous process of risk management, coordination, and professional care that keeps complex systems functioning and passengers protected in one of the most demanding environments.

A smiling cleaning staff member wearing a navy and turquoise uniform and blue gloves stands in an airport check-in area, holding onto a barrier post. Check-in signs and queue barriers are visible in the background.

Building Passenger Confidence Through Safety

Passenger safety is a fundamental element of overall passenger experience. When people feel safe, they also feel calm, confident, and well cared for. A secure and well-maintained airport environment helps travelers navigate easily and reduces stress of both passengers and staff

From check-in to boarding, every touchpoint contributes to that feeling of safety. Clear signage reduces confusion, lighting improves visibility, and temperature control ensures comfort. These details can have a strong influence on how safe and prioritised a passenger feels.

Professional airport passenger security measures also play an essential role. Visible officers, CCTV systems, and controlled access points protect passengers without creating a sense of intrusion. When safety is handled professionally and with empathy, it becomes an invisible assurance enhancing airport experience.

How Does Facilities Management Improve Airport Safety?

Facilities management is a key pillar of airport safety. It integrates a number of services including cleaning, security, maintenance, PRM, and more, to create a safe and efficient environment. Every service is interdependent, and together they prevent accidents, protect infrastructure, and safeguard wellbeing.

At Bidvest Noonan, we take a holistic approach to airport facilities management safety. Our teams work together across all disciplines to anticipate risks and maintain consistent standards. Experience is vital in an environment with so many moving parts. Our teams draw on deep industry knowledge and established best practices to manage operations that meet both aviation regulations and passenger expectations.

Safety is the foundation of airport life. It extends far beyond emergency procedures or visible security. It is built into every routine activity, every process, and every interaction.

Airport facilities management safety connects the work of multiple disciplines. Cleaning protects public health, maintenance ensures structural and mechanical safety, and security safeguards people and property. Together, these functions create an environment that feels controlled and trustworthy.

How Does Cleanliness Impact Passenger Safety?

Cleanliness is one of the most visible indicators of safety in an airport. It directly reduces risks such as slips, trips, and falls, and the spread of infection. But aside from the practical benefits of well-maintained spaces with high footfall, a clean environment also signals control, care, and professionalism. 

Bidvest Noonan’s cleaning teams follow carefully planned cleaning regimes to ensure high standards of hygiene. High-touch areas like handles, handrails, and seating are cleaned frequently using environmentally responsible products. Air quality and waste management are continuously monitored to maintain a healthy atmosphere for passengers and staff alike.

Our focus on cleanliness goes beyond presentation. It is an integral part of airport FM safety, providing both physical and mental reassurance to travelers while preventing the very real health risks that can quickly escalate in these busy public environments.

Preventative Maintenance and Operational Reliability

Every airport relies on thousands of interconnected systems: escalators, baggage conveyors, lighting, heating, ventilation, and fire protection. Each one must perform flawlessly to maintain a safe environment for passengers, as well as meeting the core function of air travel

Preventative maintenance across all these systems ensures that critical touchpoints remain reliable from entry to exit. Regular inspections by experienced personnel, data-driven monitoring with the latest technology, and proactive maintenance across every facility prevent failures that could compromise safety or cause operational delays.

At Bidvest Noonan, we use advanced digital tools to record and analyse asset performance, allowing engineers to predict and prevent faults before they occur.

This proactive approach to maintenance is essential in a 24-hour environment. By preventing breakdowns and maintaining infrastructure at peak performance, we help airports operate safely and efficiently for passengers and staff.

Technology Supporting Safer Operations

Technology now plays a central role in enhancing airport safety. Smart systems and data analytics allow FM teams to identify risks faster, make informed decisions, and improve performance.

Bidvest Noonan uses advanced technology such as smart sensors to monitor air quality, temperature, and energy use. Predictive maintenance platforms track asset conditions and highlight potential failures before they impact operations. Integrated digital dashboards provide real-time visibility across cleaning, maintenance, and security functions.

This data-driven approach strengthens both safety and sustainability. It enables teams to allocate resources efficiently, reduce downtime, and respond immediately to emerging issues. 

A Safe Airport is a Better Airport

At Bidvest Noonan, we bring together innovation, expertise, and deep industry experience to deliver world-class airport FM solutions built to enhance passenger safety. Our focus on technology, training, and operational excellence ensures that airports remain safe, efficient, and welcoming for everyone who passes through them.

In aviation, safety is the measure of trust. Through our commitment to excellence in airport facilities management safety, we help airports protect their passengers and staff while delivering the smooth, confident experiences that define the world’s best airports.

Bidvest Noonan launched our own innovative patient discharge app

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Bidvest Noonan has developed a new digital discharge app that is improving coordination and efficiency in hospital bed turnaround.

The app was designed in response to needs identified at one of the company’s hospital sites in Ireland, where teams sought a faster, clearer way to manage discharge cleans. Built entirely in-house within Bidvest Noonan’s digital operations platform, the new system replaces manual coordination through calls, spreadsheets, and messaging apps with a fully connected, real-time workflow.

When a bed becomes ready for cleaning, ward staff notify a discharge coordinator, who logs and assigns the task through the app. Cleaning teams receive the notification instantly, record progress in real time, and complete digital sign-offs that create a full audit trail of the clean. Bed management and ward teams gain live visibility of every request, including reasons for delays and completion times.

The app has improved communication, provided a single source of truth for all parties, and eliminated the need for personal devices on wards. It has also established a reliable framework for capturing and analysing live data across the discharge process.

“This innovation was built by our own digital operations team to meet a real operational challenge,” said Susan Howard, Director of Operations at Bidvest Noonan. “It’s helping our people and hospital teams work together more efficiently and with greater transparency. This is what our digital platform is all about, turning insight from the frontline into smarter ways of working.”

Since its launch in September 2025, the app has been adopted successfully with no reported issues and is now being piloted across additional hospital sites.

This initiative forms part of Bidvest Noonan’s wider investment in its digital operations platform, which integrates systems for cleaning, security, and maintenance management, providing clients with real-time visibility, data-driven assurance, and greater operational efficiency across facilities services.

Zuzanna Kotlarz, our Contract Manager, discusses how technology and data are driving smarter, more sustainable plant performance for clients.

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The world of technical services is changing quickly. For Zuzanna Kotlarz, Contract Manager at Bidvest Noonan, the biggest shift ahead is how much technology and data are now shaping the industry. Everything is becoming smarter and more connected, giving teams the ability to see what might go wrong before it happens. Predictive systems and smart monitoring are helping businesses move from reacting to problems to preventing them altogether.

Zuzanna believes this transformation is opening new opportunities to deliver better value for clients. Today, clients want greater transparency and insight. They want to understand what is happening in their facilities in real time and see how services contribute to performance and efficiency. For her, technology plays a vital role in achieving that. Digital reporting systems and smart data tools now allow teams to provide live updates, detailed reports and predictive insights. These tools improve efficiency for engineers and managers while also strengthening client relationships by building visibility and trust.

Another major focus, she explains, is sustainability. Clients increasingly expect their service partners to help them achieve environmental goals. Sustainability is no longer a separate priority; it is central to everything we do, Zuzanna says. Through energy-efficient systems, smarter maintenance strategies and continuous monitoring, Bidvest Noonan’s technical services teams help clients run their plants more efficiently, reduce energy waste and extend the lifespan of equipment. This proactive approach makes operations greener, helps clients reduce costs, plan ahead and avoid unnecessary disruption.

Zuzanna’s career began at Bidvest Noonan’s Service Desk, where she first learned the value of clear communication and teamwork. Early on, she was fortunate to have supportive managers who believed in her and guided her development. Their mentorship helped her recognise her strengths and gave her the confidence to grow. That experience shaped her leadership style today and reinforced her belief in structured mentoring and career development for young professionals. When people are new, they often do not know what opportunities exist, she explains. Having someone to talk to and learn from can make all the difference.

Becoming a Helpdesk Manager at a young age proved to be a defining moment for Zuzanna. The role came with high expectations and constant pressure, but it taught her how to stay calm, make decisions quickly and trust her team. It also deepened her understanding of what true leadership means. She learned that empathy, communication and consistency are key to leading effectively in a fast-paced environment. Our teams in the field and behind the scenes are the ones who keep everything running, she says. My role is to make sure they feel supported, appreciated and empowered to do their best work.

Zuzanna believes that strong performance comes from reliability and consistency. Clients notice when a team communicates well, delivers on time and follows through. Doing the basics right every day builds trust, and that trust leads to long-term partnerships and new opportunities.

She encourages anyone pursuing a career in operations to embrace every opportunity for growth. Saying yes to new challenges, she says, is how you learn and build confidence. Each experience, even the difficult ones, teaches something valuable.

Continuous learning is also central to her own development. Zuzanna often visits sites and plant rooms, talking to engineers and observing how systems operate. She believes that real understanding comes from asking questions and learning directly from experienced colleagues. You learn so much from conversations and hands-on experience, she says. That curiosity helps you keep up in such a fast-moving field.

For Zuzanna, technical services are ultimately about progress and partnership. They are about combining innovation with sustainability, technology with integrity and leadership with care. By focusing on the performance of each client’s plant and the long-term value of their facilities, she believes service providers can deliver more than maintenance. They can create smarter, more sustainable spaces for the future.

Bidvest Noonan Launches Counter-Terror Training Programme Aligned with UK Protective Security Guidance

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As the United Kingdom prepares for the introduction of Martyn’s Law, Bidvest Noonan has launched a new Protective Security Training Programme designed to enhance preparedness for terror-related incidents and promote safer public spaces.


The initiative began with comprehensive training for control room operators, trauma-trained medics, and security officers, focused on rapid decision-making and coordination during major incidents. This was followed by a live, scenario-based counter-terror exercise at White City Place in London, home to a range of high-profile tenants and offering a realistic urban environment for the simulation.


The exercise recreated the “Platinum 10 Minutes,” the critical window immediately following a major incident when decisive action can save lives. The scenario simulated a Vehicle as a Weapon (VAW) attack and was supported by Turret Training, St John Ambulance, and specialists from St Barts Hospital.

Authorities, including the National Protective Security Authority (NPSA) and ProtectUK, warn that Marauding Terrorist Attacks (MTAs) and vehicle-based assaults remain among the most likely forms of attack. Such incidents can unfold without warning, and most casualties occur before emergency services arrive. Recent attacks, from Westminster Bridge and London Bridge in 2017 to the Liverpool vehicle incident in May 2025, underscore the ongoing need for rapid, informed on-site response.


Bidvest Noonan’s new programme delivers realistic, site-specific training that translates national counter-terror guidance into practical capability for private-sector security teams.


“Incidents like these unfold in seconds, not minutes. Our goal is to ensure that when the worst happens, our teams are ready to act decisively and protect lives. By simulating real threats in real environments, we’re giving our people the skills and confidence to respond under pressure,” said Greg Beech, Director of Operations, Bidvest Noonan.


“It was an intense but valuable experience. The realism of the exercise helped us understand how crucial communication and quick thinking are in those first moments,” said a participant.


Aligned with Home Office and NPSA frameworks, the programme anticipates the forthcoming Protect Duty (Martyn’s Law), which will require public-facing organisations to enhance their counter-terrorism measures. Future training modules will expand to cover bladed-weapon attacks, hostile intruder events, and suspicious-package protocols, providing a comprehensive approach to threat readiness.

Why Reliable Corporate Cleaning Boosts Employee Satisfaction and Productivity

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As hybrid working continues to shape the modern workplace, organisations across the UK and Ireland are redefining what the office represents. It is no longer just a functional environment for completing tasks, it has become a space for collaboration, creativity, and connection. Amid this evolution, one factor consistently influences how employees feel the moment they step inside: the cleanliness and maintenance of the workspace.

A clean, safe, and welcoming office environment communicates care, competence, and commitment. For facilities managers and business leaders, investing in reliable corporate cleaning services goes far beyond aesthetics. It’s about building trust, supporting wellbeing, and enabling people to perform at their best, every single day.

Building Trust and Confidence Through Reliable Corporate Cleaning

Employees notice when their workplace feels cared for. Walking into a tidy, hygienic environment sends a subtle but powerful message: “You matter here.” When cleaning standards are high and consistent, it shows that the organisation values its people’s health, comfort, and experience. Partnering with a professional office cleaning company helps maintain these high standards day after day, reinforcing a culture of care and attention to detail. 

This reliability builds trust. Employees who see that their workspace is consistently well-maintained are more likely to feel safe, respected, and supported. In a world where health and safety remain priorities, especially after the pandemic, dependable hygiene practices signal responsibility and professionalism.

A clean environment also creates peace of mind. People can focus on their work without worrying about whether shared areas, desks, or kitchens are sanitary. That sense of safety reduces stress and distraction, enabling employees to concentrate and perform at their full potential.

Reducing Absenteeism With Better Hygiene and Employee Satisfaction

The connection between cleanliness and health is clear. Germs spread quickly in shared spaces, meeting rooms, kitchens, and restrooms are common hotspots. Regular and reliable cleaning dramatically reduces the risk of illness transmission, leading to fewer sick days and more consistent attendance.

According to workplace wellbeing studies, even modest improvements in hygiene can have a measurable effect on employee health and morale. The IPPR revealed that the annual hidden cost of employee sickness has risen by £30 billion since 2018 and UK employees are more likely persevere at work through sickness, which can have a productivity cost. That’s why it is important a business partners with a trusted corporate cleaning solution, that takes a proactive stance on wellbeing. Instead of reacting to illness outbreaks or cleanliness complaints, it invests in prevention, protecting both people and productivity.

For HR and facilities management teams, this approach offers tangible benefits. A cleaner environment leads to fewer disruptions, smoother operations, and a stronger culture of care. Healthy employees are happier, more engaged, and better equipped to deliver their best work.

cleaning team of two walking upstairs talking

The Link Between Hygiene and Employee Attendance

A bright, fresh, and well-kept workspace lifts people’s moods. The visual and sensory cues of cleanliness, sparkling floors, fresh air, organised workstations, contribute to a sense of calm and order. When employees return each morning to an environment that feels looked after, it reinforces their pride and sense of belonging.

Studies have consistently shown that a clean and organised environment has a direct impact on employee wellbeing and productivity. A study published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health found that workers in tidy, well-maintained spaces reported lower stress levels and improved focus, demonstrating that a clutter-free environment can significantly enhance cognitive performance and job satisfaction. This emotional connection matters. Employees who feel valued and comfortable in their surroundings are more motivated to go the extra mile. They’re more likely to collaborate, innovate, and contribute ideas that drive progress. Conversely, a neglected office can quietly chip away at morale, making it harder to maintain enthusiasm and attract top talent.

Reliable service delivery plays a crucial role here. Market-leading cleaning solutions today rely not only on professionalism but also on advanced technologies and data-driven strategies to deliver consistent results. By utilising tools like autonomous cleaning robots, smart sensors, and data led dynamic cleaning, companies can adapt quickly to the needs of modern workplaces. Whether that means adjusting schedules to accommodate hybrid working or using eco-friendly cleaning products to align with sustainability goals, great service is about understanding people as much as it is about maintaining facilities.

The Advantage of a Clean Office for Productivity

Ultimately, the relationship between cleanliness and productivity is undeniable. A clutter-free, hygienic, and well-lit workspace supports concentration, reduces stress, and minimises distractions. Employees who feel physically comfortable and safe can devote more energy to creativity, problem-solving, and collaboration.

Reliable cleaning partners don’t just maintain spaces, they enhance performance. Leveraging the latest technology transforming the cleaning industry, they create environments that are cleaner, safer, and better aligned with organisational standards.

Businesses that treat clean office productivity as a strategic priority gain a measurable edge. They experience lower absenteeism, higher morale, and better retention rates. They also project a strong brand image to clients and visitors, demonstrating that professionalism and care are embedded in every detail.In today’s competitive landscape, where employee experience is a key differentiator, investing in cleanliness is an investment in people. Clean spaces help people think clearly, feel valued, and perform confidently, the foundation of every thriving business, which is what every successful company needs.

Making Cleanliness a Strategic Priority

Corporate cleaning should not be viewed as a background task or an optional expense. It’s a strategic function that directly influences wellbeing, engagement, and productivity. By partnering with professional corporate cleaning services, businesses can ensure their spaces consistently meet the highest standards, reflecting their brand values while fostering a healthier, happier workforce.

As the nature of work continues to evolve, the importance of reliable, high-quality cleaning will only grow. Clean offices build trust, inspire pride, and enable performance. They help employees feel comfortable and confident, knowing that their health and environment are a priority.

A clean workplace isn’t just good for business; it’s essential for building a culture where people can thrive. To find out more about how our services can help your corporate environment, contact our expert team today.

Declan Doyle’s front cover interview with FM Director

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In an exclusive interview with FM Director, our CEO, Declan Doyle, shares his inspiring journey and discusses how innovation, sustainability, and great people are at the heart of our business. He also highlights how our commitment to creating safer, healthier communities is transforming the way we work across the UK and Ireland.

It’s a great article and a must-read for anyone interested in our business or industry!
Read it here: https://issuu.com/fmbdmedia/docs/fmdsept24