Building Automation Systems Technicians

Building automation systems technicians install, maintain, and repair building automation systems in industrial, commercial, and residential buildings. Installing a BAS has many benefits, including reducing energy consumption, improving energy efficiency, lowering overall energy costs, and creating a consistent level of comfort for building occupants. The use of these systems increases the efficiency of other systems in a building and extends the life cycle of various high-cost components (such as air-conditioning and heating units). Additionally, the use of BASs allows the technician or engineer to control many systems (such as fire prevention and response, security, and ventilation) in one location, which reduces the chance for human error. Building automation systems are also known as building management systems and building control systems.

Under the direction of engineers and managers, BAS technicians are involved in commissioning, decommissioning, and recommissioning building automation systems. “Building commissioning is a systematic process of checks and balances to assure that building systems are designed, constructed, and operated for peak performance,” according to Building Design+Construction. During this process, the technician may review construction documents and blueprints; test and calibrate specified equipment or systems once they are installed; download, update, and verify automation software; troubleshoot and solve any issues that arise; and create documentation that summarizes their work. Once a building automation system is installed, the technician periodically assesses the performance of the system, make updates to the operational software, and undertakes preventive maintenance program on the components (e.g., air-conditioners, boilers, electrical systems) to ensure that they continue to work efficiently and to increase their performance lifespan.

Some technicians are involved in decommissioning automation systems in a large building or group of buildings such as a power station or manufacturing plant. They remove hazardous, flammable, and waste materials; turn off the water supply and drain pipes; and provide temporary support to weakened or damaged structural elements, among other duties. Decommissioning is done in preparation for recommissioning, repurposing, or demolishing a building. When a building is recommissioned, technicians inspect and test the building’s automation system to ensure that each of its components is working correctly based on its original design and that they are working together efficiently. They also try to identify inefficiencies (such as poor insulation that causes heat loss) that can be improved. Recommissioning is often required within five to seven years after a building is constructed. When a building is repurposed (for example, from a factory to a 45-unit, residential loft complex), the technician inspects and evaluates the existing automated system to determine which components can be reused, which should be removed, and which will need to be added to provide services to the building’s new users.

Some technicians replace or improve obsolete automation systems and software in buildings. They work with engineers and other stakeholders to identify outmoded equipment and software, suggest replacements, and create a plan to integrate new systems or upgrade the existing system to improve operational utility and efficiency.