The ALS Project and Facility Management Group manages a diverse range of activities that support the operation of the ALS and of larger ALS projects. The latest and most visible project is, of course, the User Support Building. For this construction project we managed all the programming of space, made interior and exterior design choices, coordinated the actual construction activities with the operation of the ALS, and represented the project in DOE reviews. For technical projects, we work with the Engineering Division staff to ensure that the proper controls are in place and that ALS Management can monitor project progress and performance.
The Project and Facility Management Group works extensively with the Facilities Division and Senior Lab Management to maintain our buildings and ensure the proper and reliable delivery of the myriad utilities it takes to run the accelerator. These activities range from the mundane, such as getting light bulbs replaced, to larger efforts like upgrading the low-conductivity water plant that cools the accelerator (6000 gallons of water per minute!).
We also use our planning and execution strengths to support many small projects, including tasks on both the technical and facility sides such as space planning, installing hutches, improving magnet temperature monitoring capabilities, improving communication between Engineering and Operations staff, etc.
Our group manages work planning for all work done by the Engineering staff and vendors. We’ve developed a database to track all maintenance activities and are in the process of rolling out a preventative maintenance program to aid in the reliable operation of the accelerator. We coordinate all work that takes place during our major shutdowns, and help to plan the work so that we can make best use of our available staff to accomplish as much possible during our very valuable down times. A typical shutdown schedule contains over 500 tasks.