Facilities & Safety Services
Department of Facilities & Safety Services
The Department of Facilities and Safety Services supports the safe operation, maintenance, and development of Florida Polytechnic University. Our team manages everything from campus construction and renovations to safety services, event support, and daily maintenance.
We’re committed to providing a safe, clean, and efficient environment for students, faculty, staff, and visitors.
4539B Polytechnic Circle
Lakeland, FL 33805
Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m.
Service & Safety Request Center
Service Request Prioritization
To manage our workload efficiently, Facilities & Safety Services organizes requests into the following categories:
Emergency
For emergencies outside our normal hours (8 a.m.–5 p.m.), call the University Police Department at 863-874-8472. Includes repairs or actions needed immediately to protect life, safety, or building property. Emergency work orders are addressed right away.
Priority
Supports the immediate mission of a campus or department but does not involve life-safety or property damage. Typically completed within 3 working days.
Routine
Minimal impact on University or departmental operations. Usually completed within 10 working days.
Planned
Requires long-term planning or has budget implications. May require a Space Impact Form before scheduling.
Events
For event support, submit your request through the Event Management System (EMS) and include all necessary details to help us prepare.
Safety Services Forms
Accident or Incident Injury Report
Employee
Non-Employee
Planning, Design, & Construction
Our Planning, Design, and Construction team is here to guide you through any construction or renovation project involving University facilities. From initial planning to project completion, we ensure every step aligns with campus standards and goals.
Planning Services
- Master Plan
- Capital Improvement Planning
- Educational Plant Survey
- Space Assignment Requests, Allocation, Inventory, & Research
- Space Impact Request Form
Design & Construction Services
- Campus Design & Construction Standards
- Design Service Guides
- Plans Review
- Construction Guide
Building Code Administration
Florida law requires that all new construction and modifications to existing buildings be reviewed and inspected to ensure compliance with adopted building codes and standards.
Building Code Administration Program Policies & Procedures Manual
Any University department or entity undertaking construction, repairs, or modifications on University-owned property must:
- Submit construction documents (drawings and/or specifications) for review.
- Obtain a building permit.
- Undergo required inspections.
- Receive certification for occupancy, re-occupancy, or project completion.
Note: Routine maintenance projects that do not require code compliance—such as painting, flooring, equipment replacement, or minor repairs—are exempt from the permitting process with approval from the Building Code Official.
Code Enforcement Services
Our Team
- Reviews and provides comments on construction plans at all design phases.
- Verifies contractor licensing and workers’ compensation insurance.
- Issues building permits.
- Conducts required construction inspections and provides reports.
- Issues Certificates of Occupancy or Completion.
- Offers code consultation to architects, engineers, project managers, and contractors.
- Coordinates with the State Fire Marshal’s Office.
Codes & Standards
- Florida Building Code – 6th Edition (2017): In effect since January 1, 2018.
- Florida Building Code – 7th Edition (2021): In effect since January 1, 2021.
Permits, Inspections, & Resources
- Permit Application
- Permit Application – Construction Directory
- Inspection Request
- Space Impact Request Form
- Building Code Administration Request Form Letter
- Temporary Structures on Campus (Including Tents) Policy
- Tent Permit Guidelines/Application Form
- Fire Plan Review & Inspection
- Contractor Health & Safety Requirements
For questions, email safetyservices@floridapoly.edu.
John P. Trecastelli
Director, Facilities & Safety Services
863-874-8722
jtrecastelli@floridapoly.edu
Dan Bartle
Fire Safety Inspector/Emergency Management Officer
863-874-8666
dbartle@floridapoly.edu
David Calhoun
Assistant Vice President
863-874-8660
dcalhoun@floridapoly.edu
Event Support
Facilities and Safety Services can assist with events held on campus during regular business hours. Support may also be available on weekends or after hours for an additional fee.
To get started, schedule your event through University Event Services and indicate the services you need.
Set Up & Tear Down
The department assists with the set up and tear down of all university-wide events including commencement, fundraisers, and ground breaking events. We are also available to assist with other events as needed.
Tents
- Small pop-up tents are allowed without a permit.
- Tents larger than 120 sq. ft. require a Temporary Use Permit. Refer to the Temporary Structures on Campus (Including Tents) resource for additional information.
- Submit the Tent Guidelines/Application Form to safetyservices@floridapoly.edu at least 10 business days prior to setup date.
If using a vendor, vendors must provide:
- Set up and take down dates and locations
- Tent material, size, and ballasting method
- Certificate of Insurance (COI) with a liability limit of $1 million that lists the Florida Polytechnic University Board of Trustees as Additionally Insured
Food Safety
Food is only permitted in certain locations on campus, and by following health and safety guidelines.
Potentially Hazardous Events
Events that are “potentially hazardous” according to FPU-1.0038P: Events on University Property must be approved by the Office of Safety Services safetyservices@floridapoly.edu.
Examples include:
- Events with over 200 people
- Outdoor events requiring electrical power
- Bonfires or fireworks
- Drones or aircraft
- Unregistered campus athletic events
- Marches, runs, or parades
- Use of alcohol
- Motor vehicle displays or races
Environmental Health & Safety
The Office of Environmental Health & Safety (EHS) provides resources, guidance, and continuous improvement to support Florida Poly’s mission and strategic plan. Our goal is to maintain a nationally recognized environmental, health, and safety program that protects our campus community.
Our Services
Indoor Air Quality – Breathe Easy
If you are experiencing adverse health effects during the workday that may be related to indoor air quality, you can request an inspection.
Inspections may include:
- Visual assessment of spaces and air-handling systems.
- Evaluating ventilation rates, temperature, and humidity.
- Measuring identified chemical contaminants.
- Recommendations for resolving air quality issues.
Additional services:
- Responding to chemical odor reports.
- Advising on low-impact building materials and furnishings.
- Minimizing indoor air impacts during renovations or demolitions.
- Recommending air-cleaning equipment when needed.
Ergonomic Services – Creating Safe, Comfortable, Productive Workspaces
EHS provides ergonomic evaluations to help prevent musculoskeletal disorders and improve comfort and productivity. Evaluations are free of charge; however, departments are responsible for purchasing any recommended equipment.
Services include:
- Workstation setup guidance and risk assessments.
- Training for workplace and office ergonomics.
- One-on-one consultations at your workstation.
Environmental Compliance
We ensure University compliance with all applicable environmental laws and regulations. For information and guidelines needed to prevent exposure to bloodborne pathogens (BBP) and laboratory-acquired diseases, view the Exposure Control Plan.
Waste Removal
All chemical waste must be disposed of following procedures in the Chemical Hygiene Plan (see page 20).
Training Opportunities
EHS offers training sessions throughout the year, with additional sessions available upon request. Topics include:
- Bloodborne Pathogens
- Confined Space Entry (Awareness Level)
- Ergonomics
- Fire Extinguisher Use
- Hazard Communication
- Hazardous & Infectious Waste
- Hearing Conservation
- Hot Work Permit System
- Lab Safety
- Radiation Safety Awareness
- Respiratory Protection
- Golf Cart Safety
Fire Safety
Fire prevention is everyone’s responsibility. Fires can destroy property, cause injuries, and take lives—knowing the hazards and how to prevent them is the best way to stay safe. The Office of Environmental Health & Safety (EHS) manages programs to help prevent fires, ensure compliance with safety codes, and keep the Florida Poly community protected.
John P. Trecastelli
Director, Facilities & Safety Services
863-874-8722
jtrecastelli@floridapoly.edu
Dan Bartle
Fire Safety Inspector/Emergency Management Officer
863-874-8666
dbartle@floridapoly.edu
Fire Prevention & Inspections
Annual Fire Safety Inspections
The State Fire Marshal conducts annual fire safety inspections of all Florida Poly facilities. An EHS representative accompanies the inspection to identify and address fire or life safety deficiencies. Inspections are performed in accordance with Florida Statute Chapter 633.0215 and the adopted Florida Fire Prevention Code.
Annual Sprinkler System Inspections
Each year, all campus sprinkler systems are tested and inspected, including tamper switches, water flow switches, fire pumps, and sprinkler heads. Inspections cover academic buildings, residence halls, bathrooms, and common areas.
Residence Hall Fire Safety
- Equipped with fire alarms, sprinkler systems, smoke detectors, and extinguishers.
- Systems are inspected regularly to maintain readiness.
- Fire drills are conducted once per semester within the first three weeks to test alarm systems and evacuation procedures.
Hot Work Permits
Per the Florida Fire Prevention Code, a Hot Work Permit is required for all hot work operations—any task involving open flames or producing heat/sparks. Examples include:
- Welding and cutting
- Grinding
- Heat treating
- Hot riveting
- Pipe thawing
- Hot mopping
Fire Safety Tips (Source: NFPA®)
- Watch your cooking: Never leave food unattended when frying, grilling, or broiling.
- Give heaters space: Keep at least 3 feet from flammable materials and turn off when unattended.
- Keep matches/lighters out of reach: Store them high and in child-proof areas.
- Inspect cords: Replace damaged or frayed cords immediately.
- Use candles safely: Keep 1 foot from anything flammable; extinguish when leaving a room.
- Have an escape plan: Practice at least twice a year.
- Install smoke alarms: Place on every level, inside bedrooms, and outside sleeping areas. Interconnect alarms so they all sound together.
- Test alarms monthly: Replace batteries annually or when low; replace units every 10 years.
- Consider sprinklers: They can contain or extinguish a fire before firefighters arrive.
Contact Us
863-874-8691 | facilities@floridapoly.edu
