Simple Ways of Decorating when on a Budget</h1> <article> <h1>Simple Ways of Decorating when on a Budget</h1> <p>Robert Spears — Sat, 06 Sep 2008 22:56:09 GMT</p> <p>The recession has affected worldwide with Home Renovations and Improvements, more and more people have tighted their money spending. </p> <p>Here are some simple ways of Decorating your home that can make a difference especially if you are trying to sell your home to leave a impression on potiental Buyers.</p> <p>Try not to clutter your rooms, this will make your rooms appear to be a lot smaller then what they appear to be. </p> <p>Color mixing your Decorations adds an eye attraction away from any other features.</p> <p>Adding a new Quiltcover to your Bed will change the astompshere in your room. </p> <p>Plants whether a artifical or Real will spuce up a room to make in with your decor.</p> <p>Keyholders will organise your keys instead of having them losely on your countertops.</p> <p>Candles change a mood that you are trying to organise, whether you are having a romantic dinner for two or soaking in the tub for sheer relaxation.</p> <p>Bird Baths are a excellent way of attracting Bird wildlife not to mention a added attraction to your garden.</p> <p>Lamps - There are so many out there, some modern, Unique, Old fashion no matter what sort of lamp - It can save on switching on your main lights when it comes to Electricity.</p> <p>Throw Rugs - A great idea for those who have pets staying indoors to avoid pet hair going over your favorite couch. </p> <p>Mats or Rugs - Especially through the colder months can drawn in heat to your room. Avoiding colder feet. There are all sorts of rugs you can get, from cane, Bamboo, Arycilic, Lambs Wool coming all different sizes.</p> <p>Wall Hangings - To be Especially Different - the 3d Wall Hangings tend to stand out more. </p> <p>Pillows - How about changing the pillows on your sofa to brighten up your room and give new life to your favorite spot when relaxing.</p> <p>To save heaps of money on Home Decor - There a places on the web where you can lots of money buying Bulk or giving Free Shipping.</p> <p>If you are tired of being in the same routine when it comes Home Decorating try to do some things different. Invite your Friends or Family over and see if they can give you an opinion or wait for them to say something.</p> <p>It's all about being Creative, you dont have to be a expert - Look up the Color Basic Chart to Mix and Match your colors. </p> <p>Wishing everyone best of wishes in their Home Improvements.</p> <p> </p><div style="clear:both;"></div> </article> <article> <h1>Strategies for Reining in Energy Costs</h1> <p>MySolutionSpot Editor — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 14:33:35 GMT</p> <p>As energy prices continue to rise, small businesses are scrambling to find ways to lower costs. While it may be tempting to try a patchwork approach to saving energy, making slight alterations to a variety of areas, it is more practical to concentrate on the biggest energy consumers to save the most money with the least effort. </p> <p>For example, restaurants can focus on installing highly-efficient refrigeration systems and lighting, as those tend to be the biggest energy costs, says consultant Virginia Lacy. </p> <p>Other strategies include energy-efficient water heaters, switching to high gas mileage vehicles for deliveries, and giving drivers access to GPS systems or mapping sites such as MapQuest so they can find the most efficient route to a destination and not have to drive around to find a location. </p> <p>Once the large energy consumers are taken care of, focus on small changes in behavior that could lead to big savings. For example, turn off equipment and lights when not in use and make sure buildings are properly insulated. Energy-efficient light bulbs can be a significant investment initially, but they can pay for themselves in three years or less. </p> <p>A building recommissioning, essentially a professional building tuneup, can help a business save up to 10 percent on energy costs by checking for leaks in heating and air-conditioning systems, among other strategies, Lacy says. </p> <p>An energy audit can also help save money by helping businesses determine which energy-strategy project will garner the fastest returns. Energy auditors thoroughly analyze a business' energy usage by examining energy bills and inspecting equipment and the building. Many local utility companies offer free energy audits to small businesses. The power company can also help businesses find utility rate plans that best fit their usage patterns.</p> <p><span class="cite"><b>"Strategies for Reining in Energy Costs"</b><br /><i>Wall Street Journal (07/05/08) Spors, Kelley K. </i></span></p><div style="clear:both;"></div> </article> <article> <h1>Security Products</h1> <p>Visionary Products — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 03:39:21 GMT</p> <p> <br /><br />Everyone has had a feeling of insecurity or a feeling of uncomfortableness at one point in time. We here at <a target="_blank" href="http://www.visionarysafetyandsecurity.com/">Visionary Safety And Security Products</a> are here to help you feel more secure and confident in your everyday life. We have a variety of products as well as a wide range of fields and situational products to offer to you (with a guarantee of personal safety.) A lot of people can argue that a Handgun well make you feel confident and secure, but how many people are willing to carry a hand gun around with them everywhere they go? You can’t take handguns inside of a courthouse, a post office, any state, government, or pretty much any established buildings anyway. On the other hand you can carry many of our Personal Safety products with you anywhere and have it within reach incase someone tries to violate your safety or if you threatened. The fact that handguns are extremely dangerous and you have to think what happens if someone else gets there hands on your gun i.e. An attacker or even a child this would not be acceptable. You will feel better knowing that your are carrying around a type of personal safety that will temporarily stun and disable your would be attacker allowing you to get to a place of safety and structured security.</p><div style="clear:both;"></div> </article> <article> <h1>The Air Hose Reel and the Safe Auto Shop</h1> <p>MySolutionSpot Editor — Sat, 12 Jul 2008 03:39:11 GMT</p> <p>It is almost impossible today to find an auto shop or mechanical shop today that does not have an air compressor that runs various air tools and accessories. If a shop has an air compressor, it will have air hoses running all over the place to run air tools, grease guns, inflate tires and perform various other tasks. In order to keep your shop floor safe and clutter free, an air hose reel is the easiest and most widely used method for storing and using air hoses. Hose reels are also used for air, water, gardens, potable water, cold water, hot water, oxy-acetylene as well as grease and oil pumping systems. </p> <p>With this many different applications, a shop can quickly become a tangle of different colored hoses. Besides hurting productivity and looking sloppy, loose hoses on the shop floor are a safety hazard. Today, most professional auto shops have several air hose reels mounted on the walls that will automatically retract and store air hoses. There are basically three different versions of the air hose reel.</p> <p><b> <p>Open Faced Air Hose Reel</p> </b></p> <p>The most common type of air hose reel is the open faced self retracting type. This type of air hose reel is generally constructed with heavy gauge steel and corrosion resistant components to withstand the demanding environment of the modern auto shop. Auto rewind is also a standard feature and is highly recommended by Red Hill Supply. A good air hose reel also will have the ability to be mounted on the wall, ceiling or even on a service truck. Some other features to look for is: dual axle support (This is important to withstand vehicle vibration if the air hose reel will be mounted on a service truck. ),Weep holes in the drum. (Weep holes allow moisture to drain from the drum and reduce rusting.) and heavy gauge steel.</p> <p><b> <p>Closed Faced Air Hose Reel</p> </b></p> <p>The closed face air hose reel is becoming much more popular and popping up in more and more high end auto shops. A closed face air hose reel has several advantages over its open faced cousin. First, the air hose is completely protected when it is fully retracted in the case. This protects the hose from harsh weather conditions and other hazards that can damage and ruin a hose. Another common feature is the ability to wind the hose back and forth and insure the hose is wound back up levelly. This insures the air hose is always retracted equally across the drum. Also, the outer casing is usually made of industrial grade polypropylene that is resistant to ultraviolet light. This makes the air hose reel dent resistant and impervious to corrosion.</p> <p><b> <p>Manual Air Hose Reel</p> </b></p> <p>Mainly the manual air hose reel is relegated to the garage and home mechanic. This type of air hose reel has to cranked with a lever in order to retract the hose back onto the reel. They typically are of cheaper construction and not as durable as the other types of reels. However, if you are looking for a low cost air hose reel for your garage, a manual air hose reel will be just fine and provide you with years of service.</p> <p>About the Author: Jason has been in the construction equipment and industrial sales business for over 10 years. He owns and operates Red Hill Supply to better serve the automotive and industrial industries. </p> <p>Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jason_Miller</p> <p><a href="http://www.redhillsupply.com/">http://www.redhillsupply.com/</a></p> </article> <article> <h1>Surviving Office Relocation</h1> <p>MySolutionSpot Editor — Sat, 12 Jul 2008 03:39:11 GMT</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> <span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">One of the major problems of a growing business is the need for expansion or even relocation. The company would be faced on opening up a new branch, remodeling the present office, and relocating to a bigger office space. When a business to be suddenly interrupted by office relocation, management tends to panic due to disorganization. For efficient office relocation, the company needs advanced planning for a smooth moving experience. </span> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"><strong>1. Hire An Expert</strong> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">To survive the mess office relocation brings to the working environment, the company should think about hiring an office relocation experts that could analyze the company's resettlement for the employees so management to focus on their own work. By doing so, the company could save a lot of time and money with a much smoother transition to the relocated office. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">With your company's relocation team along with the office relocation service team, the budget and planning would be a series of brainstorming sessions. Organized as most relocation teams are, they would supply your company with a detailed documentation. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">- Relocation plans </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">- Infrastructure needed </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">- Equipment needed </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">- Shipment of old office appliances </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">- Quotation for entire procedure </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"><strong>2. Planning Is Key</strong> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">These services have highly trained staff members which studies the company's profile and its need for the new environment. The office relocation specialists plan ahead of time to provide a strategic facility location and set up lease negotiations to find your company the perfect location for the new office. These people would be the one to handle the design and lay-outs of walls, carpeting, ceilings, location of comfort rooms and other rooms. They would lead in the implementation of all the necessary equipments needed for the company's business. They are the people who would develop and execute the office relocation. Give the specifications to your office relocation specialist. They would provide the location of your company's desired place, and they are the ones who would do the negotiations for lot owners. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">These office relocation services would handle all departure assistance. They would set up your recent office space for lease or purchase to a real estate agent for faster results. By negotiating with the office areas' worth, your company would be given the extra needed financial increase for expenses on the ongoing office relocation. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"><strong> </strong></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"><strong>3. Shipping Cargo</strong> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Negotiations with the top companies of shipping and cargo would be the office relocation team. They would set up an appointment for the relocation date and time. Office relocation services would provide your company the advantage of comfort because every little detail of your office relocation would be their job. They would monitor the pick up of all office supplies and make sure that the deliveries of these supplies and appliances arrive on schedule. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">They would also set up electrical wires, telecommunications needed, air-conditioning, the arrangements of office equipments and furniture of your desire, and positioning of systems furniture. There are also special relocation teams which manage information technology updates and set ups which could help your company adapt a healthier environment with new facilities. They could handle all of the technical side of your company's business move. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"><strong>4. Less Disruption Means Avoiding Loss Of Profits</strong> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">These office relocation services provide the company a less disruptive environment during the process of relocation. They are experts who have been in the relocating business for years and help the company to get the system up fast and the office up and running. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">These relocation services provide a great deal of service to your company's comfort. From the designs of your company's walls and ceiling, to the pipelines of the office bath rooms, to the networks of the company's information technology, to the office appliances needed, with your go signal, they will be there to make all the dealings. With an understanding of your company's needs, they would assist you in legal documents for lease, business permits and construction permits. Plus, they would provide for you the contacts and they would negotiate with them if top materials and equipments the office is necessary. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">With this in mind, you will be the boss on your own office relocation. You would tell the experts on what you have in mind, and they will execute it as fast and as undisruptive as possible. With a low cost for this office relocation service, what more can you ask for?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><strong></strong></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><strong><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">About the Author: </span></strong><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">John Morris: For more great office relocation related articles and resources check out http://www.the-relocation-place.com<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Article Source :</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">http://www.bestmanagementarticles.com</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">http://facility-management.bestmanagementarticles.com<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><strong><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Link</span></strong><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">: http://www.the-relocation-place.com<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></p> </span></p> </article> <article> <h1>Steel Buildings: Why Are They So Popular?</h1> <p>MySolutionSpot Editor — Sat, 12 Jul 2008 03:39:11 GMT</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;"></span></p> <p> <span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">If you've been searching for a solution to your agricultural, garage, or industrial building needs, you've no doubt noticed that steel buildings have become increasingly popular. You many be wondering why so many people are choosing steel buildings over other types of construction materials and if a steel building will work for your application. </span></p> <p> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">In this article, we'll take a look at some of the applications for and benefits of these metal buildings. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">What are people using steel buildings for?</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">A steel building can be as simple as a carport or as complex as a multi-story, ornately architected office building. These type of buildings are very popular for farming or housing combustible materials such as hay bails. Lots of people place attractive steel building on their properties for use as a workshop or garage. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">NASA uses steel buildings for functional reasons to store and protect its high tech vehicles and equipment. Multiple General Motors (Hummer) dealerships also use SteelMaster 's roofing system for the construction of a sophisticated and attractive clear span showroom. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">Though similar buildings of the past were, well, not that pretty; the steel buildings of today are as and even more architecturally stylish than most wood constructed buildings. You might be surprised at how many buildings are actually constructed of steel. The reason is that there are important benefits to using steel rather than wood in building construction. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">Why are others choosing these buildings?</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">There are quite a few reasons why steel buildings are so popular today:</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">Cost: Steel buildings are much less expensive to construct than wood buildings. Not only do the materials cost less, but the time required to erect this type of building is much less also. The steel can be precut and pre-punched before the materials ever arrive at your location.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">Safety: Unlike a wood structure, steel is not flammable. This makes steel buildings ideal for hay sheds, barns, and storage sheds. When used as barns, steel buildings provide a safe and temperate environment for the animals inside when ventilated properly. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">Bug Resistant: While wood structures are vulnerable to termites, steel buildings are impermeable to these damaging insects. Anyone that has had a run-in with these tiny yet destructive critters understands how that it is much easier to prevent termites than to get rid of them.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">What to look for in a steel building</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">With the rising popularity of steel buildings, many manufactures have arrived on the scene to meet consumer demand. However, be cautious before you choose a vendor. Some of the things you'll want to research before making a choice are:</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">-Grade of steel: 80 grade or higher is ideal</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">-Quality of the steel coating: Coating protects the steel material from rust and decay</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">-Energy Star Rated steel materials: Using Energy Star rated materials can yield a 15% to 20% cooler environment.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">-Laser guided pre-punched holes: Laser precision means less room for error in construction</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">-Whether or not the company has a customer service department</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">-Warranty: length and conditions</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">-Number of years in business </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">-Dedicated customer service department -After all sales people sell and do not do customer service very well.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">There are countless reasons why people choose steel buildings over other kinds of construction today. One idea is to talk to others who use steel buildings for the same applications that you are considering and ask them why they made the choice of steel over other construction materials. If you keep your eye open, you're likely to begin noticing that there are more steel buildings around than you may have realized!</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><b></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><b><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">Author: </span></b><b><span style="font-weight:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;">trycmcw</span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><b><span style="font-weight:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;">Author is a freelance copywriter. For more information on</span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><b><span style="font-weight:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;">steel buildings, visit <a href="http://www.steelmasterusa.com/"><span style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal;">http://www.steelmasterusa.com/</span></a>.</span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><b><span style="font-weight:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;"> </span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><b><span style="font-weight:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;">Source:</span></b><b><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;"> <a href="http://www.content4reprint.com/"><span style="font-weight:normal;">http://www.content4reprint.com</span></a> </span></b><b><span style="font-weight:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;">Free high quality articles.</span></b><b><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;"></span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><b><span style="font-weight:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;"> </span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><b><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">Link</span></b><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">: <b><span style="font-weight:normal;font-family:Arial;mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;">http://www.steelmasterusa.com</span></b></span></p> </article> <article> <h1>Setting Up a Welding Shop</h1> <p>MySolutionSpot Editor — Sat, 12 Jul 2008 03:39:11 GMT</p> <p>Sooner or later if you run an auto shop you will need to weld something. At first, you may just find a place on the concrete safely away from flammable materials and other people. Once outside you can set up your arc welder choose one of your favorite welding helmets and start welding. But eventually, it may become necessary to set up a dedicated area as a welding shop. There are many advantages to having a dedicated welding shop. Some welding processes are simply not suited to outside work. For example, gas metal and gas tungsten require surrounding air to be still. This is because the shielding gas can be blown away. Arc welding should only be done in dry areas and away from the rain due to the electric shock hazard. Another reason is the outside temperature. Cold metals do not weld as well as metal at 70 degrees F. Welding is a dangerous activity and your surroundings should be as controlled as possible. Use a welding machine in the outdoors leaves too many variables and welding right in the middle of your auto shop is just too dangerous.</p> <p>During the welding process sparks and bits of slag can scatter up to 40 feet from the area of welding. This can cause damage to people and create a fire hazard. In your welding shop you build a metal table to do your welding on and stay away from wood or other materials that can catch fire. The welding shop should be in an area that is well ventilated. Welding can generate dangerous gases that need to be removed from the room and smoke as well. Also, bright overhead light needs to be set up and aimed over your welding table. If your auto shop has an extra room with cinder block walls and a concrete floor, you are in luck. This will make an ideal place for your welding shop. You want to avoid any surface that can be damaged or set on fire by sparks and hot slag.</p> <p>Once you have your room set up correctly, various power tools will be needed as well as your welding accessories. Power tools such as a reciprocating saw, angle grinder, portable band saw, and a chop saw will come in handy during your welding projects. An angle grinder is ideal for removing excess slag and cleaning up rough edges on metal. Specific tools for working on metal will be needed as well. These include metal brakes and metal benders that are available for all sizes of metal. Other suggested tools are magnetic clamp, center punch, metal file, C-clamp, corner clamp, cold chisel, ball peen hammer and a hacksaw. This not a complete list but is generally a good place to start. The list of tools you can use in welding is almost endless and you will constantly discover new tools that you will need as you become more advanced in the art of welding.</p> <p>Setting up a welding shop is really about common sense more than technical know how. Neophytes to welding are quick to forget about the extreme temperatures needed in the welding process and therefore do not realize the fire hazard of a welding area. If you are more experienced, it is fairly obvious that carpet in your welding shop is not a good idea. A good welding shop not only protects the welder and aids in good welding but it protects the other people in your auto shop by not exposing them to hot sparks and blinding light.</p> <p>About the Author: Jason has been in the construction equipment and industrial sales business for over 10 years. He owns and operates Red Hill Supply to better serve the automotive and industrial industries.</p> <p>Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jason_MillerLink</p> <p><a href="http://www.redhillsupply.com/">http://www.redhillsupply.com/</a></p> <p> </p> </article> <article> <h1>Property Software</h1> <p>MySolutionSpot Editor — Sat, 12 Jul 2008 03:39:10 GMT</p> <p>With over 6,000 property companies there are many Managers who are "happy" to put up with their software crashing, sometimes as much as once a week, staff who are expected to complete mundane administrational tasks after years of experience and owners who have received fines or worse, by missing key legal requirements, or falling foul of the OFT or governing body guidelines. It becomes crystal clear that although many property software programs look the same and purport to have functionality in depth, that this is not the case.’<br /><br />Property Software is not intended as a tool to assist Estate Agents and Letting and Management Agents in their day to day operations but is far more, a system and framework within which the daily business of Letting & Management is cared for by the property software and above this, the troubles and cares of staff and managers should be catered for by a myriad of checks and cross checks, backed by Client Protection Scheme’s. Making the difference between a highly successful agency and an average agency, is the quality of the staff in that company and that the role of software is not to replace that market edge but to serve and enhance the staff role, so that maximum time is spent on customer service and business development, rather than chasing mistakes, worrying about legal and compliance issues, or God forbid correcting errors in the software system itself.’<br /><br />When choosing your Property Software there are many key variables to take into account. The paradox is that from a cursory look or a demo disk these do not become clear, for example:<br /><br />• If you had not received a valid gas check certificate, would your property software send a letter to the tenants advising them not to use their gas appliances, without human interaction and so saving your business from ruin?<br /><br />• Does your property software already include and police all the requirements for anti-money laundering, has it already taken into account the new deposit holder scheme requirements and HMO licensing?<br /><br />• Can your property software give you immediate breakdowns of branch by branch performance and even negotiator performance to highlight staff training requirements?<br /><br />• Can your mail merge to groups such as managed property landlords and produce letters and letter suites without having to click in and out of four screens?<br /><br />• Does it control where your keys are and ensure you have control over them at all times?<br /><br />When it comes to gaining market edge, building a business and creating a happy working environment you need more than software and although a zirconium looks like a diamond one is of so much less value that it will shatter and break when it comes under pressure.<br /><br />With many companies providing different Property Software packages from off the shelf software to bespoke systems, researching and listing your key requirements and any legal requirements will help you in making the right choice. Your software should care for your daily business of being and Estate Agent and Letting & Management Agent reducing the time spent on mundane administrational tasks and preventing costly mistakes by checking and cross checking the information in the database, resulting in your staff having more time to for customer service and business development.<br /><br />About the Author: Peter Grant is Managing Director of Vision Teknology, a company that has nearly 20 years of experience within Property Software Solutions for Estate Agents and Letting Management Agents in the UK.<br /><br />Article Source: <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ArticleBiz.com">http://www.ArticleBiz.com</a><br />Link: http://www.vision-teknology.co.uk/</p> <p style="margin:0in 0in 0pt;" class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-family:Arial;"> </span></p> </article> <article> <h1>Learn The Importance Of Using Industrial Safety Products</h1> <p>MySolutionSpot Editor — Sat, 12 Jul 2008 03:39:08 GMT</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Industrial safety products are designed to be used within industrial facilities to improve the health and well being of workers and the environment.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Occupational health, safety and environmental professionals work together to control environmental health hazards that arise in the workplace or the community. Absorbents and drain guard products can provide storm drainage containment, secondary containment and ways to clean up oil spills with spill kits to protect public health and safety.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports "In 2001 there were 5,900 workplace related fatalities and 5.2 million nonfatal injuries and illnesses reported. That is a rate of 5.7 injuries per 100 workers, less than half of the 1973 number of 11 injuries or illnesses for each 100 workers".</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Industrial safety products keep workers, their families, and the community healthy and safe. These products play a vital role in ensuring that federal, state, and local laws and regulations are followed in the work environment.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"><strong>What are the Benefits of Industrial Safety products</strong></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Workplace safety products when combined with an onsite safety and health program make a huge impact in the number of occupational fatalities, injuries, and illnesses that occur in the workplace.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Since the Occupational Safety and Health Act was passed in 1970, workplace injuries and illnesses declined significantly.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Anti-fatigue matting provides an additional level of protection and comfort for employees who must stand on their feet for long periods of time; Other benefits include:</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <ul> <li> <div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Promotes employee wellness. </span></div> </li> <li> <div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Immediate increase in productivity and employee morale due to work place comfort. </span></div> </li> <li> <div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Guaranteed reduction of exposure to prolonged cold, heat and vibration, </span></div> </li> <li> <div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Reduces spinal compression. </span></div> </li> <li> <div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Increases circulation. </span></div> </li> <li> <div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Ergonomically designed guaranteed reduction of back, leg, foot and ankle fatigue</span></div> </li> </ul> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">List of retail applications for anti-fatigue mats can be found in different facilities and institutions including:</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <ul> <li> <div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Restaurants </span></div> </li> <li> <div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Retail Stores </span></div> </li> <li> <div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Hospitals </span></div> </li> <li> <div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Shopping Malls </span></div> </li> <li> <div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Offices </span></div> </li> <li> <div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Automobile Dealerships</span></div> </li> </ul> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Industrial Safety products cover a wide range of categories. The goal of each product is to prevent illness or injury from hazards in an industrial settings. They may also be found working to prevent ergonomic injuries in the office as well on the manufacturing floor.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">These products may be used to aid in the disposal of extraneous liquid materials and have value in other areas of safety. Industrial safety products may include a wide array of products that sample air, soil or water quality to determine if there are harmful substances present in the environment.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Having industrial safety products like Spill Kits or industrial sorbents onsite to meet emergency needs is a beneficial decision that some companies overlook. For those industries that produce extraneous liquid materials that may be hazardous to the environment, a drain cover and seal kit are important. A drain cover seal & spill blocker can be used quickly for emergency spills.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Industrial Safety Products save lives, improve quality of life, and increase productivity. A worker who feels safe is a happier worker. Happy workers are more productive Small additions of industrial safety products can mean big gains in attendance and reduction in injuries. Companies benefit from a comprehensive industrial safety overview that focuses on safety and productivity of workers.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><strong><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">About the Author: </span></strong><strong><span style="font-weight: normal; font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Travis Zdrazil is a successful businessman who has been part of a successful partnership since 1985. With over 10 years of business experience Travis uses his business expertise to select and supply businesses with products and information to aid in EPA and OSHA Regulations in the areas of: </span></strong></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><strong><span style="font-weight: normal; font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Storm water pollution</span></strong></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><strong><span style="font-weight: normal; font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Pollution Prevention & Control </span></strong></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><strong><span style="font-weight: normal; font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Other industrial, commercial & environmental issues.</span></strong></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><strong><span style="font-weight: normal; font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Keep your company compliant with EPA's New Initiatives. Sign up for his free newsletter at http://www.absorbentsonline.com or feel free to contact him if you have any questions on Industrial Safety Products through the site.</span></strong></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><strong><span style="font-weight: normal; font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"> </span></strong></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><strong><span style="font-weight: normal; font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-ansi-language: FR;">Article source: http://www.freedoc.info</span></strong><strong></strong></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><strong><span style="font-weight: normal; font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-ansi-language: FR;"> </span></strong></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><strong><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Link</span></strong><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">: <strong><span style="font-weight: normal; font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">http://www.absorbentsonline.com</span></strong></span></p> </article> <article> <h1>Improving Workplace Safety</h1> <p>MySolutionSpot Editor — Sat, 12 Jul 2008 03:39:08 GMT</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">In certain industries, each employer must create a safety and health program known as “A Workplace Accident and Injury Reduction,” or AWAIR, program, as required by Minnesota Statute § 182.653 subd. 8. An AWAIR program must be in writing and there are five key points that it must address:</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">1. How the program will be implemented and then maintained by managers, supervisors, and employees.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">2. How new or existing hazards, conditions and operations will be identified, analyzed, and then controlled.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">3. The method for communicating the plan to all employees that might be affected by work-related hazards and controls.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">4. How, in the event of a workplace accident, the incident will be investigated and then what corrective action will take place.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">5. The type of enforcement that will be used for safe work rules and practices.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Since workplace environments are constantly changing and new employees are hired, the AWAIR program must be reviewed and analyzed for effectiveness at least annually. If workplace safety is a real concern to an employer, this task will not be difficult. Regardless of the job, employee safety should be reinforced constantly to keep employees at a high level of performance.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">A healthy workplace for all employees should be a primary concern for any company, and should be supported by company policy. To always reduce the number of accidents and injuries at a jobsite should always be a goal. A safe work environment is not an individual job, however. It requires cooperation between an employee, his/her co-workers, and management. While employees are the group that is most directly affected by a safety program, the managers and supervisors are the ones who are responsible for creating and enforcing the program. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Many companies will have a safety director who is responsible for organizing a program such as AWAIR. Individual employees will report concerns to their supervisors. All the supervisors and managers of the company, who are responsible for health and safety at each specific worksite, will then report any concerns to the safety director. S/he will then set up or modify existing training programs to provide adequate personal protection for those concerned workers.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Each job location is unique and dynamic, so site supervisors should check worksites daily for compliance with the safety program implemented. A Site Safety Checklist is an easy way to do this. Because there is a danger of procedures becoming routine, and therefore lax, random inspections and reviews should also be carried out regularly.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Accidents are not completely avoidable, however. Site supervisors should investigate all accidents or near-miss events that occur. Although dangerous, these events will help the supervisor, as well as the safety director, rework the health and safety program to provide a safer working environment. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Workplace safety should be critically important to a company. Employees are one of the most important parts of a business, so keeping them safe and informed about potential risks and consequences should be a primary concern. Not only do accidents at work affect human lives, but also can affect workers’ compensation costs, training expenses, productivity, and insurance rates. Violation of health and safety rules should be disciplined, while compliance to the rules should be rewarded.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">The key to a successful safety program such as an AWAIR, is a clear set of goals and objectives for safety and health at the workplace. These goals should be understandable, informative, and enforced throughout the company in order to prevent accidents and preserve life. Not only will a company benefit from preventing these things, but the employees will have a higher level of performance knowing how safe their work environment is, and how much the management is concerned with their safety.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><strong></strong></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><strong><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">About the Author</span></strong><strong><span style="font-weight: normal; font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">:</span></strong><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> The Minnesota twin cities law firm of Schwebel Goetz and Sieben can provide a construction accident attorney or lawyer to Minneapolis MN construction injury victims. Source: http://www.articleated.com</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: small; font-family: Times New Roman;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><strong><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Link</span></strong><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">: http://www.schwebel.com/practice/construction-accidents/</span></p> </article> <article> <h1>How To Cut Operational Expenses / Useful Tips For The Small Business</h1> <p>MySolutionSpot Editor — Sat, 12 Jul 2008 03:39:08 GMT</p> <p><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">When it comes to cost management, it's the everyday expenses that are most often overlooked by small businesses. Experienced cost management consultants like AMK Associates in New York often start with these overlooked items to give their clients an immediate boost to their bottom line. Here are some simple tips for cutting your operational expenses without compromising quality or reducing your staff:</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;"><b>Office Supplies</b> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">* Use generic versus brand names whenever possible. Many brand name suppliers make generic versions of their products, so you won't sacrifice quality. For example, use 3M's Highland Self-Stick Notes instead of their Post-It's notes and save more than 50 percent per unit.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">* Always ask for a price break. Most vendors will not quote you their best price unless you ask. So ask!</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;"><b>Equipment Leasing vs. Purchasing</b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">* Buy anything small enough to set on your desk; otherwise, lease it. Leasing gives you the option to upgrade or downgrade, depending on your needs and changes in technology.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">* Keep leases under 36 months. Buy smaller equipment such as fax machines and printers (Brother and Epson are great); while their prices constantly drop, the technical capabilities do not change significantly.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;"><b>Messenger Services</b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">* Analyze where your packages are being delivered</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">* Then, negotiate a broader delivery range and pay a fixed price.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;"><b>Equipment Insurance</b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">* All leasing equipment companies automatically charge for insurance, even though your current policy may already cover it. Register your leased equipment with your insurance broker so it can be added to your current policy.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">* Then request a Certificate of Insurance (COI) from your broker, and submit it to the equipment leasing company. Otherwise, you will double your insurance charges.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;"><b>Shipping</b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">* Handle shipping costs on a case-by-case basis. Know the shipping policies of each vendor and choose the best vendor for each item to be shipped.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">* For instance, if the weight is not stated on a package, some shipping companies will charge customers for a five-pound parcel. To avoid this, preprint air bills with one pound, and most vendors will adjust the poundage if the package weighs more or less.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;"><b>Printing</b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">* If your letterhead text won't change the same for a six-month period, print in bulk. It saves both money and time. Don't worry about storage; most printers will store the inventory and ship at no additional cost.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">* If your printer won't store it for free, negotiate storage and shipping into the overall price of the print job.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;"><b>Telecommunication</b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">* If your total telecom costs for both voice and data are $3,000 or more, consider a T-1 connection. While you will be charged a recurring monthly fee, your per-minute rate will be significantly lower.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">* Check to make sure your phone company is charging you in six-second increments. If not, you will pay for a full minute for every fax you send, even though it transmits in seconds.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-weight:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;"><b>Service Contracts</b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><b><span style="font-weight:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;">* Don't automatically get costly service contracts for every piece of equipment. You may find it more cost-efficient to simply pay for time and materials; even as much as $175 per hour if repairs are necessary.</span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><b><span style="font-weight:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;">* Some service contracts are advisable, but be cautious. For example, most telecommunication contracts include the PBX (console), as well as each individual telephone. Though it is advisable to insure the console, there is little need for insurance coverage on the phones.</span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><b><span style="font-weight:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;"></span></b><span style="font-weight:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;"><b>The Bottom Line</b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><b><span style="font-weight:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;">By making these minor purchasing changes, you can cut your operational expenses significantly. Cost management consultants can uncover additional savings by analyzing other expense items, designing more efficient systems and aggressively negotiating with vendors. It's tedious, meticulous, detailed work that many small business owners and managers would rather avoid (much like filing income taxes). But just like income tax filings, business owners can offload the work to experienced cost management consultants to keep their focus on running their businesses and maximizing their bottom lines.</span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><b><span style="font-weight:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;"> </span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><b><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">About the Author: </span></b><b><span style="font-weight:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;">Arleen Kahn is the President and Founder of AMK Associates, a leading cost management services company. Her consulting engagements have resulted in hundreds of thousands of dollars in savings. Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com</span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;"></span></p> </article> <article> <h1>Emergency shower and eye wash stations are required in today's workplaces!</h1> <p>MySolutionSpot Editor — Sat, 12 Jul 2008 03:39:07 GMT</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"></span></p> <span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Every business should do an audit of their workplace and look for signs of any dangerous hazardous materials so as to ensure that their employees are provided with safe and healthful working conditions.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">In fact, under the law, suitable facilities for quick drenching or flushing of the eyes and body must be provided within the work area for immediate emergency use where any person is exposed to injurious corrosive materials.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">On the spot decontamination is provided by an emergency shower and eye wash station, which allows personnel to flush away any hazardous substances that can cause injury. Splashing accidents must be followed by prompt and effective action with the affected part being flushed for a minimum of 15 minutes. Using a clean supply of flushing fluid under low-pressure emergency shower and eye wash stations are covered by specific guidelines laid down by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI).</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">For example, ANSI Z358.1 1998 revision had a general requirement that flushing fluid be "tepid". At the time, the word "tepid" was a bit vague which led to individual interpretations of the term.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">You should review the entire ANSI Z358.1 2004 Standard in detail. It's very important to plan ahead, because in an emergency every second counts !</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">However, in its 2004 revision of the Standard, ANSI clarified the definition of the word "tepid" " to be in the range of 60 degrees F to below 100 degrees F. At immediate start-up of the equipment, the output flushing fluid must be within that range and remain there throughout the full 15-minute use cycle. Generally, temperatures higher than 100 degrees F may cause chemical interactions with the skin and result in further damage. At 60 degrees F and below hypothermia becomes a concern.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">It is important to realise that this very specific requirement is now in place. If compliance is delayed you may have fines levied by the Occupational Safety and Heath Administration (OSHA) for non-compliance to ANSI and other standards. It's possible that these fines could be substantial.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Not only that, it's also possible that the temperature range requirement could result in a case of negligence in a lawsuit filed by an injured employee. For example, if the emergency shower water was too cold. The employee may be unable to stand under the shower for the full-required period, which resulted in the employee receiving a greater injury.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Deluge showers should be used in all chemical and cryogenic handling areas, in battery rooms and in all situations where clothing, fires or impingement burns may occur.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">The emergency safety shower and/or emergency eyewash station must be installed within 10 seconds walking time from the location of a hazard.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">The safety shower equipment must be installed on the same level as the hazard and accessing the emergency eyewash and/or emergency shower equipment should NOT require going up or down stairs or ramps. The path of travel from the hazard to the equipment should be free of obstructions and as straight as possible. Remember, doors are a concern and may hinder a user accessing safety shower emergency equipment.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Of course, there are circumstances where these guidelines may not be adequate such as where workers are handling particularly strong acids, caustics or other materials where the consequences of a spill would be very serious.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">In these cases, emergency eyewash and/or emergency shower equipment should be installed immediately adjacent to the hazard.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">You should review the entire ANSI Z358.1 2004 Standard in detail. It's very important to plan ahead, because in an emergency every second counts!</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><strong><span style="font-weight: normal; font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"></span></strong></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><strong><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">About the Author: </span></strong><strong><span style="font-weight: normal; font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">For additional information on workplace hazards and emergency shower and eye wash equipment, please visit: <a href="http://www.emergencyshowersystems.com/"><strong style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">www.EmergencyShowerSystems.com</strong></a></span></strong></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><strong><span style="font-weight: normal; font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"> </span></strong></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><strong><span style="font-weight: normal; font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-ansi-language: FR;" lang="FR">Article Source: http://www.articlerich.com</span></strong></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><strong><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial; mso-ansi-language: FR;" lang="FR"> </span></strong></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><strong><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Link</span></strong><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">: http://<strong><span style="font-weight: normal; font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"><a href="http://www.emergencyshowersystems.com/"><strong style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">www.EmergencyShowerSystems.com</strong></a></span></strong></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><strong><span style="font-weight: normal; font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"> </span></strong></p> </article> <article> <h1>Emergency Response for Small Businesses</h1> <p>MySolutionSpot Editor — Sat, 12 Jul 2008 03:39:07 GMT</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"></span></p> <span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Emergencies of some kind occur on a daily basis, sometimes several times in the same day. It should come as no surprise that the key to surviving an emergency is being prepared. Chaos and confusion can quickly turn a bad situation into a devastating one. This is true for both the home and the workplace as well. Emergencies are high stress situations, and can be made significantly worse by having not being prepared. The best way to combat this is to have a plan ready to enact should an emergency arise.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Emergency Response plans are a requirement for any workplace. Even fire departments and police stations must have an emergency response plan in place should an emergency occur within their building. These plans, of course, look much different than most businesses emergency plans, whether small or large, but they are still a requirement. Planning and training phases, though, mean nothing on paper. These plans must be studied, understood, and practiced by employees.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">When putting together an emergency response plan for a small business, it is important to address those emergencies that are most likely to occur first and work back from those kinds of situations. For instance, a business in a warm climate should not focus all of their energy on a plan for a major blizzard or ice storm. Moreover, a company in a landlocked, northern location does not need to spend as much time on a plan for a hurricane. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Geography plays a large role in the planning process, but the nature of the business must factor in, as well. A company that deals with large sums of money in cash must be concerned with the threat of a robbery. A business that deals with chemicals must be prepared for spills or reactions. Knowing the dangers inherent in the business is vital in the planning process. Fires are a possibility for any business. These should be addressed early in the planning stages. The evacuation procedure for a fire may be similar to many other evacuations. This section of the plan can then be expanded to develop the plans for other kinds of emergencies. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">A good plan will also help emergency crews when they arrive on scene. A well thought out and practiced plan may help conserve property damage as well. Steps like closing interior doors when leaving might help control the spread of fire or chemicals. This one step, which may viewed as a small detail, could save the business owner a significant amount of money. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">A common meeting place for all employees also helps with getting an accurate head count to make sure everyone is out. An important part of any emergency response plan is to have designated exits for all locations within the building and to mark these clearly. An escape route sign must be located by all doors. Keeping exits clear and accessible is also essential.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Some employees may be designated, in certain emergencies, to stay back and begin the emergency response. This may include a hazardous materials team that is trained and properly equipped to handle small spills. It may be an employee with emergency response training who does a quick sweep of the building with respiratory protection. These duties must be clearly spelled out in the plan, and training and equipment must be supplied. These are extreme cases and should be coordinated with local emergency crews. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">The plan must clearly define what an emergency is and what employees, in each of the various jobs or locations, is expected to do. They must be trained in the plan so they know their duties and expectations. Practicing various aspects of the emergency response plan is a key component, as well. Confusion is reduced by practicing and the comfort level rises. Not all aspects of the plan must be practiced, but the most likely scenarios, and the most extreme, should be drilled.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">An emergency response plan is not going to cover every possible emergency. It should address the most likely scenarios and then have a general plan in place for major disasters. The evacuation will be much the same for a fire as for a chemical spill. A major storm may require "sheltering-in-place", just as a major hazardous material incident outside the building might. A general plan in place for all emergencies will help build a basic understanding of what is expected. Additional roles and responsibilities may come into play for more specific emergencies. A person should be designated in charge in any situation where the plan is called into play. This person would be responsible for overseeing the implementation of the plan and communicating with emergency crews. A "second-in-charge" should also be designated, or a regular chain or command established, should the first person be unable to perform their duties. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Coordinating with local emergency crews and setting up drills is a good way to practice, and adapt the plan. The Federal Emergency Management Agency has training available to help small businesses develop and implement a good emergency response plan. The Occupational Safety & Health Administration also offers guidance in helping with this planning process.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><strong><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">About the Author: </span></strong><strong><span style="font-weight: normal; font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Megan Hazel is a freelance writer who writes about topics concerning planning, safety preparedness and demonstrations for emergency response such as Safety Training Videos | Terrorism Response Videos</span></strong><strong><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"></span></strong></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><strong><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></strong></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><strong><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Link</span></strong><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">: http://www.efilmgroup.com/</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> </article> <article> <h1>Considerations Before Setting Up Your Companies Plastic ID Cards</h1> <p>MySolutionSpot Editor — Sat, 12 Jul 2008 03:39:07 GMT</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Before you begin designing ID cards for your organization, here are four elements you should review before starting to layout your creation. After being in the industry for years and assisting in the design for thousands of companies we realize the many uses of an identification card. No matter what your reason for creating an ID card, these elements should at least be reviewed.</span></p> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"><strong>Portrait VS Landscape</strong></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">The primary method of the card being used is the first thing to consider when it comes to the orientation of your card. You may want your cards to be worn at a specific event or function and if so, then a portrait card would best suit your staff. If you want your members or staff to carry the card in their wallet then commonly it’s best to choose a landscape card giving you more room for personal information and lengthy titles.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">If you want your staff to wear their identification on their jacket, lapel or worn on a lanyard, then it’s best to use a portrait setup. Wearing a landscape card commonly gets in the way because of its width. Also, it doesn’t seem to stay as upright and keep your staff looking as sharp. A portrait card hangs better simply because of the effects of gravity. Also when you want your staff to wear a card, you should consider what information you want to be displayed to the world on their credentials.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"><strong>Personal Information</strong></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">The amount of personal information that you place on your staff’s identification cards should be limited to the information that you want the readers to have access to. If the card is going to be displayed or worn, then it’s best to limit the amount of information to the individual’s name and title. If the card will be carried in a wallet, then you can put more information on the card helping to either identify the individual with items, such as height, sex, and blood type.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">If you are creating a card for a specific industry or to comply with the regulations for identification set by another organization then make sure you are following their guidelines. One example of this is police identification cards. Several states have created legislation that describes exactly what is required and these specifications must be followed. Another example is for organizations that do contract work for another entity. Commonly these entities have suggested some guidelines to follow. Be sure to check any requirements set by organizations such as these.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">In a nutshell, we suggest that you limit the amount of personal information for your identification cards. The caveat is for people that need information in cases of emergencies such as police officers, fireman or any dangerous profession or industry. In these scenarios, we even recommend putting any specific medical information that would be beneficial in the event of a medical emergency. Alternatively, most people would not care to show the world their medical conditions at a trade show.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"><strong>Back Side of the ID Card</strong></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">The back side of the card can be used as valuable real estate that many do not use wisely. If the card is formatted in a landscape fashion, many organizations choose to put additional personal information about the carrier. If the card is going to be worn, then it can be used for the company’s mission statement or the company’s statement of purpose. Even adding the company’s mailing address to the back of the card can be beneficial in the event of loss. We have seen the post office deliver cards just because someone dropped the card into a mailbox.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Other things we have seen this real estate used for are things such as important phone numbers, barcodes for job tracking or time clock tracking.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"><strong>Other Uses</strong></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Before you begin to design your card it’s best to consider what other uses you might be able to make of your companies new identification cards. There are time clock applications that can use the cards by adding a simple barcode. There are more sophisticated solutions that have to do with access control, but this commonly adds a much larger investment for the hardware to read the cards and unlock access to secure areas.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">In summary, it’s most important to start with the primary reason you need identifications cards for your organization. Their benefits come in many ways ranging from corporate reorganization and branding, to having critical medical information available for individuals in hazardous industries.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><strong><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">About the Author:</span></strong><strong><span style="font-weight: normal; font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"> Allen Richardson is the founder of Virtual Tournament Director, a company handling registration and ID cards for amateur sports participants around the nation, and http://www.fullidentity.com a company that provides similar services to the business community. He also serves as consultant to Southwest Airlines, Burlington Northern Sante Fe Railway as well as several other companies in the United States. Additionally, he is the author of Personal Discipline: Tools for Consistent Success.</span></strong></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><strong><span style="font-weight: normal; font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"> </span></strong></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><strong><span style="font-weight: normal; font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-ansi-language: FR;">Article Source: www.iSnare.com </span></strong></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><strong><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial; mso-ansi-language: FR;"> </span></strong></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><strong><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial; mso-ansi-language: FR;">Link</span></strong><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial; mso-ansi-language: FR;">: </span><strong><span style="font-weight: normal; font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">http://www.fullidentity.com</span></strong></p> </article> <article> <h1>Conducting Risk Assessments for Hazardous Substances</h1> <p>MySolutionSpot Editor — Sat, 12 Jul 2008 03:39:07 GMT</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"></span></p> <span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">To manage Hazardous Substances a requirement is to conduct Risk Assessments for each of the hazardous substances. The process required to ensure that all risks identified with using a substance is controlled under the Queensland Workplace Health and Safety Regulations is described below. The requirements for other legislation will be quite similar.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"><strong>When is it a requirement to conduct a risk assessment?</strong></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Legislation requires that Hazardous Substances risk assessments are required at the following times:</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">As soon as practicable after it is used;</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo3; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Within five years after the last assessment;</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo3; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">When a work practice involving the substance is significantly changed;</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo3; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">New information about the substance's hazards is available;</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo3; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Health surveillance or monitoring shows control measures need to be reviewed; and </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo3; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">New or improved control measures are implemented.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"><strong>Are you asking why you have to complete a risk assessment at all of these times?</strong> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Let's have a look at the benefits: </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo4; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">You will know before using the substance the risks to you employees, therefore, allowing you to put controls in place to reduce the risks. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo4; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Reviewing the assessment every five years allows you to identify if anything has changed, therefore, altering your risk significance. Including, if there is a less hazardous substance that could be used.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo4; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Changes in work practices may impact other areas of risk in conjunction with the use of the substance, for example: changing from fine powder to pelletised form.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo4; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">If the manufacturer changes the substance, this may affect your practices or employees differently.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo4; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Health Surveillance and monitoring are tools used to measure your controls. If there is a significant change in the results this is your first indication that your controls are not performing as you had anticipated.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo4; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Regularly employees, suppliers, manufacturers or even visitors will identify new or improved control measures. A risk assessment is required to ensure that no further risk will be introduced.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"><strong>What needs to be included in the risk assessment?</strong> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">The legislation requires that the following are included in the risk assessment: </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Identification of the hazardous substance;</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">If the substance's MSDS is available; a review of the MSDS;</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">If the substance's MSDS is not available; a review of available equivalent information;</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">If the substance is contained in a consumer package; a review of the package's label;</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">A decision whether any workers may be exposed to the substance; and</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">A decision about the control measures, health surveillance and monitoring needed for the substance.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">MSDS's and consumer packaging is an invaluable source of information when conducting your risk assessments, they will contain a substantial amount of the information required, for example: Substance Product Name; Chemical and Physical properties; Health Hazards and Safe Use. Generic assessments may be prepared for the workplace where the substance is used in the same or similar circumstances. For example: An assessment prepared by an industry body or trade association about the use of brake fluid at service stations.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Controlling the Risks Identified: Now that the identification of the risks, monitoring / surveillance requirements and control measures have been identified – YOU need to ensure that they are implemented. The effectiveness of your controls can be measured by monitoring / surveillance data; incident / accident trending; training and the review of your risk assessment. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"><strong>What records are required to be maintained?</strong> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Legislation requires that the following records are maintained for each risk assessment:</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">The date the assessment was conducted;</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">The substance's product name or other information;</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Whether the degree of risk is assessed to be significant;</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">The control measures for the use of the substance that were in place when the assessment was done; and</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">The type of monitoring that is needed and the intervals at which the health surveillance must be done.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Conducting risk assessments for hazardous substances is not difficult and is not a chore. Completing this risk assessments and complementing processes will protect the health of yourself, your friends, your employees and your family.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><strong><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">About the Author</span></strong><strong><span style="font-weight: normal; font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">: Tina Wallace is the founder and principal consultant of Audit 13. Audit 13 helps individuals and companies in the rural, mining and manufacturing sectors understand their obligations with regard to Occupational Health and Safety and to comply with them. To learn more go to http://www.audit13.com ©2007 Audit 13</span></strong></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><strong><span style="font-weight: normal; font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"> </span></strong></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><strong><span style="font-weight: normal; font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-ansi-language: FR;" lang="FR">Article source: <a href="http://www.freedoc.info/"><span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">http://www.freedoc.info</span></a></span></strong></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><strong><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial; mso-ansi-language: FR;" lang="FR"> </span></strong></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><strong><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Link</span></strong><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">: <strong><span style="font-weight: normal; font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">http://www.audit13.com</span></strong></span></p> </article> <article> <h1>Common Commercial Building Maintenance Questions</h1> <p>MySolutionSpot Editor — Sat, 12 Jul 2008 03:39:07 GMT</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="> </p> <p><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">Randy Crocker, Principal Owner of Hassle Free Commercial Services, gets questions all the time from clients about their property and what they can do to save money, prevent fires, and keep their building running efficiently all while keeping their clients and employees happy. The following list addresses some of the most asked questions. </span></p> <p> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;"><b>1. How can Energy Efficient Bulbs save us money?</b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">If every American home replaced just one light bulb with an ENERGY STAR qualified bulb, the country could save enough energy to light more than 3 million homes for a year, more than $600 million in annual energy costs, and prevent greenhouse gases equivalent to the emissions of more than 800,000 cars.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">• ENERGY STAR qualified bulbs use about 75 percent less energy than standard incandescent bulbs and last up to 10 times longer.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">• Reduction about 25% or more in electricity costs over a normal bulb.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">• Produce about 75 percent less heat, so they're safer to operate and can cut energy costs associated with home cooling.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">• Are available in different sizes and shapes in almost any fixture, for indoors and outdoors. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;"><b>2. How many items can I safely plug into my electrical outlet?</b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">Add up your amps! Most breakers are 20 amp breakers, (if you are not sure what yours are, check with your building maintenance professional) which means add up the amps required for each electrical device you are plugging in and make sure that the total does not exceed 20 amps. The amps used by your devices can usually be found on the side or bottom of the device, or in your owner’s manual. Beware of space heaters, and microwave ovens, they use 14 amps – more than one on a single breaker will blow a fuse!</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;"><b>3. What can we do to practice fire safety in our building?</b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">Fires can be avoided by following proper fire safety practices. The best method of fire prevention is the knowledge and elimination of fire hazards.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">First, be sure to check your smoke detectors once a month and the batteries at least once a year. Smoke detectors sense abnormal amounts of smoke or invisible combustible gases in the air. Make sure they are installed on every floor, or are up to code per your county and state regulations. Also be sure that your smoke detectors are labeled by the Underwriters Laboratories (UL) or Factory Mutual (FM).</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">The following Tips should be followed very carefully for fire prevention:</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">• Keep portable and space heaters at least 3 feet from anything that may burn. Never leave heaters on when you leave.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">• If an electrical device begins to smoke or has an usual smell, unplug it immediately and have it repaired. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">• Replace frayed or cracked electrical cords and don’t overload extension cords. They should also never be run under rugs.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">•Comply with NO Smoking rules at all times. Usually, there are designated safe locations for smokers. Carelessly thrown cigarette butts are common causes of fires.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">• Always have and maintain proper fire fighting equipment.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">• Never block fire fighting equipment or exit doors. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">• Lastly, consult your building maintenance professional or electrician for any changes to your fuse box.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;"><b>4. How can we reduce our water and sewage bills?</b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">Toilet flushing uses the most water in commercial and residential buildings. Replacing old 3.5 gallon toilets with new 1.7 gallon toilettes can drastically reduce your water bill. However, we only recommend doing this for smaller buildings. And remember, with less water being used, less sewage is generated and thus those fees are also reduced. Alternatives to traditional toilets include dual-flush and composting toilets, and waterless urinals. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">Have your maintenance professional practice preventative maintenance, even more savings can be realized through stopped leaks. Other water cost saving methods can also be included on sinks, washing machines, dishwashers, ice makers and HVAC through automatic controls and with the purchase of energy star compliant appliances.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;"><b>5. Our generator doesn’t work when we need it to, what can we do</b>?</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">Keeping the moving parts in your generator is very important. As parts remain motionless, especially in new generators, air can creep into a unit injector solenoid. Emergency Generators should be started up every week for about 5 minutes with transfer load testing every month. Every year a full load test should be completed. A good practice is to schedule this along with elevator testing. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">In addition to running the generator on a monthly schedule, you should also perform the following general maintenance inspections and repairs: </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">•Inspect Radiator fins monthly</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">•Check antifreeze levels weekly</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">•Keep block heater plugged in and warm</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">•At a minimum change fuel filters annually</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">•Keep an eye out for wet spots around the fittings of the fuel system</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">•The indicator light should read okay on the battery charger</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">•Ensure tight, corrosion free connections on the battery and charging systems</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">•Make sure the engine itself, as well as the engine belts are free of wear and have signs of any leaks</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">•Check oil levels and change oil and oil filters annually</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">•Check the engine air filter once for every 100 hours of operation</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">•Change the Engine Filter at least once per year and that the canister is free of dirt and other debris</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><b><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">About the Author: </span></b><b><span style="font-weight:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;">Randy Crocker, Principal Owner of Hassle Free Commercial Services, has over 27 years of experience in the commercial engineering field. HFCS are contractors specializing in industrial building maintenance, fire prevention, and repair on: HVAC, fire alarm systems, plumbing, emergency generators and electrical systems in Washington DC, Maryland and Virginia. Visit HFCS online at www.myhfcs.com.</span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><b><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;"></span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><b><span style="font-weight:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;">Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com</span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><b><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">Link</span></b><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">: http://<b><span style="font-weight:normal;font-family:Arial;mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;"> www.myhfcs.com</span></b></span></p> </article> </main></body></html>