Maintenance & Repairs
The supplies that make up the Maintenance, Repairs, and Operations (MRO) ensure that daily transactions run smoothly, maintaining the performance of administrative tasks and machinery. Either "just-in-time" or "just-in-case" inventory, MRO items comprise of everything from replacement parts for machinery to safety products for workers and cleaning products for the physical plant. Other goods that fall into this category include mechanical, plumbing or electrical devices, as well as hardware, tools and paints, adhesives, and sealants. While each product has its own environmental considerations, following the below guidelines and environmental labels can assist with making sustainable purchasing decisions.
For paints, janitorial products, motor lubricants, lighting, and antifreeze, refer to the individual category guide for each commodity.
Choose
- recycled content
- energy-efficient products
- chemical-free equipment
- biodegradable products
- low levels of volatile organic compounds (VOC)
- bio-based products
Avoid
- virgin materials
- buying excess or unneeded parts or materials
- products containing polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB)
End of Life
- recycle or donate “where available”
- manufacterer take back programs
An EPA checkmark indicates a certification or standard is recommended by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
King County Facilities Green Operations and Maintenance Guidelines Handbook
General Services Administration’s Federal Strategic Sourcing Initiative: MRO
Sustainable Facilities Tool: Green Procurement Compilation (GPC) Tool and Product Search
City of San Francisco, California: Health & Environmental Requirement Approved Products
Responsible Purchasing Network: Green Building Supplies Guide
Contact Us
Phone: 206-263-9400
TTY Relay: 711
Fax: 206-296-7676