Vinyl flooring doesn’t pose many disadvantages. In fact, it is one of the best options if you are looking for durability, easy maintenance, and good looks. However, like every other flooring option, vinyl isn’t perfect. It may be more appropriate for some homeowners than others. The Pros of Vinyl Flooring
Mobile Mini UK, one of the leading worldwide providers of portable accommodation and secure storage containers, flew the flag for the construction industry last night at the prestigious 2022 UK Customer Experience Awards (UK CXA®22) held at Wembley Stadium. The company headquartered in Stockton-on-Tees, scooped the award for Best Customer
When you hire a London, Ontario home builder, or a home builder anywhere for that matter, it can be stressful and overwhelming. You are taking a leap to build a custom home, and with that, you probably have some pretty big expectations. That’s normal and expected any time you’re dealing
Businesses are always looking for ways to grow and expand, but sometimes they don’t think about the impact their growth could have on the environment. It is important for businesses to be conscious of their environmental impact and find ways to reduce it as much as possible. This blog post
When transferring hazardous products, you must guarantee that the personnel handling the materials are adequately trained and certified. Proper safety equipment must also be provided for their own safety and well-being while ensuring the others. It’s also vital to consider packing for hauling hazardous products that comply with UN laws
How often do you hear stories about car owners who have had their cars break down due to negligence or poor maintenance? If you’re looking to save some cash on auto repairs, you should take note of these common mistakes. It’s estimated that over 66 million cars are sold each
When you are running a business, you need to make sure that you have everything running smoothly. One of the worst things to happen to a business is slow or low productivity. That’s not just in your people, but in your systems, your software and in the way your business
Whitby Lobster Hatchery has announced that two offshore wind farms will increase and extend their support to help the charity officially open its doors for the first time and continue its work to create a sustainable future for the Yorkshire coast and the local Whitby area. Both Sofia and Dogger
Air quality is a public health issue, especially in urban areas where congestion can cause serious problems for pedestrians and residents. You might assume that rules are not as strict in rural areas, since less traffic and lower population density should ensure air quality is not compromised, even by large
Metabo continues their dedication to improving employee health and safety on the jobsite The safety of man and machine is Metabo’s top priority. Because the solutions from the Nürtingen-based power tool manufacturer ensure safe working in every area. Now Metabo is expanding its existing tool safety programme to include an
Vinyl flooring doesn’t pose many disadvantages. In fact, it is one of the best options if you are looking for durability, easy maintenance, and good looks. However, like every other flooring option, vinyl isn’t perfect. It may be more appropriate for some homeowners than others. The Pros of Vinyl Flooring Affordability This is perhaps the biggest benefit of vinyl flooring. Compared to wood and tiles, the upfront cost is pretty low. You can spend less than $1 per square foot on the lower end. Even though rigid core vinyl planks are more expensive, their average price per square foot is lower than alternative flooring types. Hardwood flooring or carpet, for example, can cost up to double the price of vinyl. Variety of Finishes Vinyl flooring comes in a variety of beautiful finishes to suit different needs. The floors are available in traditional and modern designs, including hardwood, stone, and marble imitations. You can also choose from abstract patterns and motifs for modern and contemporary rooms. Scratch-Resistance Vinyl planks are scratch-resistant. They are hard to damage because of the resistant wear layer. Unlike hardwood which exhibits dings and dents after years of use, vinyl will look great for a long time. Durability With proper maintenance, quality vinyl flooring options can last very long. It can last much longer than hardwood and certainly longer than carpet. Vinyl flooring requires little upkeep to stay in good condition for a long time. This is the sort of flooring where less is more regarding maintenance. You don’t need to use any expensive cleaning supplies. Most detergents and waxes can harm the material. Simply use a homemade mixture of hot water and white vinegar to clean your floors. Alternatively, you could mop the surface with a cleaner for vinyl flooring. Great for Pets and Kids Vinyl flooring is an excellent choice if you have children or pets. Even though it isn’t always fully waterproof, all types of vinyl are water-resistant. You don’t need to worry about accidental messes and spills staining your floor. You can simply clean with a mop or vacuum. Comfortable On Your Feet Vinyl flooring is softer and easier to walk on than hardwood or tile, even though it isn’t as comfortable as carpet. This is a significant advantage, especially if you want to put new flooring where people need to stand for extended periods. The ability of the material to maintain room temperature is another benefit in terms of comfort. Simply turn on the central heating, and your vinyl floor will feel reasonably warm to the touch. This perk is especially significant if you enjoy being barefoot inside your home, even during the cooler months. They Can Look Like Anything One of the best things about vinyl flooring is that it can be customized to look like anything you want. Your selections are obviously limited to what the manufacturer has to offer. However, you can always find something for your space. Would you like your vinyl planks to resemble natural wood? Do you want them to look like stone, wood, or a huge flower? You can have whatever you want. The Cons of Vinyl Flooring The benefits of vinyl flooring are undeniable. It is inexpensive, looks like natural wood, and comes in various styles. However, this flooring isn’t for everyone. Here are a few disadvantages of vinyl flooring: In conclusion, vinyl flooring is ideal for modern homes or renovations on a budget. Depending on the type, this flooring can simulate real wood at a lower cost. Vinyl flooring is also simple to install and maintain. It might not be as durable as tile or have the same market value as hardwood, but you can still count on it to last for many years.
Mobile Mini UK, one of the leading worldwide providers of portable accommodation and secure storage containers, flew the flag for the construction industry last night at the prestigious 2022 UK Customer Experience Awards (UK CXA®22) held at Wembley Stadium. The company headquartered in Stockton-on-Tees, scooped the award for Best Customer Experience for SMEs alongside their partner ThinkWow. Mobile Mini competed with iconic companies including Sky, BT, Octopus Energy and Virgin Media on awards night and in addition to the SME victory, were also named runners-up to Sky in the Best Employee Driven CX category. Over the past 18 months, Mobile Mini – which has a fleet of over 40,000 portable units for a variety of storage solutions and 16 strategically placed sites throughout England, Scotland and Wales – has worked in partnership with ThinkWow to enhance its customer experience strategy and training. This has resulted in an increase in average Net Promoter Scores (NPS) from 71 to 80+, increased revenue (aiming for a third record-breaking year) and higher volumes of customer feedback. After a deep dive into Mobile Mini’s operations, the team were able to fulfill an end goal of achieving a positive future strategy. The focus of the new vision is to empower all staff and customers to both provide and receive the best possible experiences. Over 90% of Mobile Mini employees attended launch calls for the CX Project and almost 70 team members were interviewed about their experience of working with their customers. In addition, many customers also provided external views to help build insightful and accurate improvement objectives. Simon Gray, Regional Director North & CX Project Lead commented, “It is fantastic news winning this award at a prestigious UK-wide Customer Experience event and is great recognition of what our UK teams do each and every day to make sure that we provide a World Class Customer Experience. What really stands out for me is that we already achieve world-class NPS scores and yet our teams are constantly striving to improve how we look after our wonderful customers. Well done to all our teams across the UK.” Chris Fay, Commercial Director at Mobile Mini UK added, “We are delighted that Mobile Mini UK has been recognised in this way and we are very proud of all our team who have contributed to our ongoing award-winning Customer Experience strategy. The win has been a collaborative effort in every sense. It is truly employee-driven, with everyone from branch managers to HGV drivers having their say and playing their part in shaping innovative new approaches and solutions to our customer experience.” This success builds on the Mobile Mini and ThinkWow’s joint GOLD award win earlier this year in the Customer Experience category at the 2022 UK Business and Innovation Awards (UK B&IA) and another win this month at the 2022 Speedy Expo for Partner of the Year – Customer Solutions.
When you hire a London, Ontario home builder, or a home builder anywhere for that matter, it can be stressful and overwhelming. You are taking a leap to build a custom home, and with that, you probably have some pretty big expectations. That’s normal and expected any time you’re dealing with something as important as where you’re going to live with your family. There are, at times, disputes that can arise with your contractor, however. This is often a normal part of the process, and it can be because of miscommunication or simply because your contractor doesn’t see the same vision as you. It’s not necessarily that you should aim to avoid all disputes when you’re building a home because that may not be realistic. What’s more important is how you handle disputes if they do arise. With that in mind, the following are tips and things to know if you find yourself in a disagreement and you aren’t sure what steps to take. 1. Take a Few Deep Breaths Building a home is stressful and expensive, and that can bring out the worst in homeowners. If you feel your temperature rising with your contractor, before you do anything else, take a step back and give yourself some time for a few deep breaths. If you respond right away with anger, it can end up creating delays in your project. It can damage your relationship with your contractor going forward, and there may be better solutions that are available. If you have to step away before you talk to your contractor, do so. It’s never productive to enter into a conversation at the height of your anger. 2. Read Your Contract Once you’ve taken a step back, it’s time to assess the situation. Sometimes, you may be dealing with a contractor who actually is the problem, but there are also situations where there are misunderstandings, and no one is necessarily the “bad guy.” Before you say anything, go over your contract. Your contract should address all the various aspects of the job. It should include details on the scope of work, the timeline, and the expected completion date, and it should also include a section on the procedure for dealing with disputes. Keep in mind that even with the best contractors, there are often changes that come up in the middle of the project. This is the nature of construction. As you’re reading the contract and thinking about what your issue is, you have to ask yourself whether or not it’s something that was unavoidable. 3. Define What Your Issue Is, Specifically Once you’ve gone over your contract, you’ll probably have a better idea of specifically what your issue is and potentially how your contractor has veered away from what you expected. At this point, think about the issue that you have in specific terms, and write it down. Before you talk to your contractor, you want to be clear with yourself about where you feel like your project went wrong. If you’ve had previous conflicts with your contractor, don’t bring them up in this conversation. You want to keep things clear and on track. When you’re writing down your issue, jot down some of the facts of the situation as well. 4. Have a Conversation with Cooperation In Mind When you have a clear head, you can ask your contractor to have a conversation with you. You want to sit down with just them. You don’t want to get into an argument in front of other people, including their subcontractors and people who work for them. You want to keep things professional and non-confrontational. You may find that if you have a conversation, you’re able to work things out with your contractor and come to an agreement or a place of understanding. A simple conversation can resolve a lot more than you might initially think, especially when miscommunication is involved. The earlier on you can have an amicable conversation, the better. It’s very often the case that your contractor is completely unaware that there’s a problem at all. When you have a conversation, avoid placing blame and make sure that you’re listening. Too often, when we’re frustrated, we’re just waiting for the other person to stop talking without actually listening, so we can jump right back into the conversation and disagree. Be polite and try to hear what your contractor is saying because you might learn what actually went wrong and be better prepared to come up with ways to fix the issue. If you can come up with a plan during this conversation, put it in writing. Email a copy of the plan to your contractor and yourself. 5. Out-of-Court Options The hope is that by the time you reach this point, you’ve worked things out with your contractor. If not, there are still things you can do. One is hiring a mediator. There are companies that specialize in construction mediation if you feel like things have gone too far, or you’re not going to be able to see eye-to-eye with your contractor. During mediation, a neutral third party steps in to try and help you reach a resolution. The downside of mediation is that it’s not binding, so you don’t have to accept the proposed settlement. There’s another option which is binding arbitration. The last resort should always be court. This will be the most stressful and expensive for everyone involved. You also have to remember, if you haven’t hired a contractor yet, that if you do your due diligence, you can avoid the risks of working with a bad apple. Most contractors are highly professional and take their work seriously. Do the legwork early on in the hiring process. Check reviews and references and look at the past work of a contractor before making a hiring decision. Make sure you’re choosing someone who represents themselves professionally, and you’re less likely to find yourself in a situation where they truly aren’t doing what they’re supposed to.
Businesses are always looking for ways to grow and expand, but sometimes they don’t think about the impact their growth could have on the environment. It is important for businesses to be conscious of their environmental impact and find ways to reduce it as much as possible. This blog post will discuss how businesses can expand while still being environmentally friendly and also talk about how businesses can make an even bigger impact on the environment by implementing sustainable practices. 1) When businesses expand, they often use more resources which can have a negative impact on the environment; Businesses should try to find ways to expand without using more resources or look for ways to offset their increased resource use. One way to do this is by investing in renewable energy sources like solar and wind power. Another way businesses can reduce their environmental impact is by implementing sustainable practices into their operations. This could mean anything from using recycled materials to composting food waste to installing energy-efficient lighting. By doing this, businesses will not only be helping the environment but also saving money in the long run. 2) Businesses can make an even bigger impact on the environment by implementing sustainable practices; Businesses should try to find ways to expand without using more resources or look for ways to offset their increased resource use. One way to do this is by investing in renewable energy sources like solar and wind power. Another way businesses can reduce their environmental impact is by implementing sustainable practices into their operations. This could mean anything from using recycled materials to composting food waste to installing energy-efficient lighting. By doing this, businesses will not only be helping the environment but also saving money in the long run. Sustainable practices are not only good for the environment, but they can also be good for business. By investing in sustainable practices, businesses can save money, attract customers, and positively impact the world. 3) Sustainable practices are not only good for the environment, but they can also be good for business; Sustainable practices are not only good for the environment, but they can also be good for business. By investing in sustainable practices, businesses can save money, attract customers, and positively impact the world. Some sustainable practices that businesses can invest in include using recycled materials, composting food waste, and installing energy-efficient lighting. These practices will help businesses save money, attract customers, and positively impact the world. Businesses should try to find ways to expand without using more resources or harming the environment. Implementing sustainable practices is one way to do this. Sustainable practices are not only good for the environment, but they can also be good for business. By investing in sustainable practices, businesses can save money, attract customers, and positively impact the world. 4) Implementing sustainable practices is one-way businesses can expand without harming the environment; Implementing sustainable practices is one-way businesses can expand without harming the environment. Sustainable practices are not only good for the environment, but they can also be good for business. By investing in sustainable practices, businesses can save money, attract customers, and positively impact the world. Some sustainable practices businesses can invest in include using recycled materials, composting food waste, installing energy-efficient lighting, and using commercial waste disposal. These practices will help businesses save money, attract customers, and positively impact the world. In conclusion, businesses should try to find ways to expand without using more resources or harming the environment. Implementing sustainable practices is one way to do this. Sustainable practices are not only good for the environment, but they can also be good for business. By investing in sustainable practices, businesses can save money, attract customers, and positively impact the world.
When transferring hazardous products, you must guarantee that the personnel handling the materials are adequately trained and certified. Proper safety equipment must also be provided for their own safety and well-being while ensuring the others. It’s also vital to consider packing for hauling hazardous products that comply with UN laws on hazardous goods haulage. You must be aware of the dangers of transferring such risky products. Catastrophes can arise anytime, and you must be prepared to deal with them. What Are Hazardous Materials? Explosive material is any chemical that, if discharged into the atmosphere, sea, or soil, represents a significant threat to human health and our ecosystem. Hazardous substances can be discovered in various commodities, notably cleaning supplies, pharmaceuticals, and insecticides. They can also enter the environment as a consequence of industrial expansion and through the consumption of fossil fuels. Asbestos, lead, mercury, uranium, and insecticides are all hazardous materials, which cause cancer, birth abnormalities, and brain impairment, among other harmful effects. Hazardous compounds can be ingested, inhaled, or come into contact with the skin if not properly packaged. Therefore, it’s essential to use special packaging and transportation services such as Air Sea DG Containers which specialize in transporting and storing hazardous materials compliant with UN regulations. Why is the Transportation of Hazardous Materials Highly Regulated? Hazardous material shipping is heavily restricted since these products constitute a major security threat to the general public if not correctly handled. If hazardous compounds are inhaled, swallowed, or enter into contact with the body’s tissues or eyes, they can be damaging or lethal. Any component that is combustible, acidic, venomous, and otherwise unsafe is considered a hazardous material. To avoid mishaps, these components must be handled appropriately. They must also be carried out in a manner that reduces the possibility of spillage or discharge. The Department of Transportation regulates the shipment of hazardous substances. When hauling these materials, the DOT has a set of guidelines known as the Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR) which must be observed. There are also numerous federal, state, and municipal laws that govern hazardous substance shipping. These laws are intended to safeguard the general population and the environment from the hazards posed by these chemicals. Considerations When Transporting Hazardous Materials Follow Safety Protocols Even before the substance is readied for transit, the transportation/safety manager must decide if it is a hazardous material or not. The product safety data sheet (SDS) offers information about the dangers of the product(s) in question. Once the substance has been determined as dangerous, it can be packaged for shipment. Hauling hazardous items can be detrimental to shipping company employees and the general population too. Drivers of vehicles transporting hazardous items must be adequately accredited and qualified and be aware of the risks involved before setting off on their journey. Only authorized staff should have access to dangerous materials. Limiting access to outsiders requires gate systems, general employee training, and materials sign-in/sign-out sheets. Furthermore, all personnel should be informed of hazardous material locations and urged to report any questionable activities. In addition, when handling such materials, suitable safety equipment must be worn at all times to ensure health and safety at work. It is also critical to keep health kits on hand at all times. Choose the Correct Transport Medium When selecting a transport medium for hazardous products, you must consider several rules that apply to such substances. For starters, ensure the carrier has a valid license from the Federal Hazardous Materials Safety Permit Office. This is the most essential prerequisite for carrying hazardous items anyplace. Depending on the mode of transit, ensure that the individual in charge of delivering the consignment is hazmat certified by the US Department of Transportation or the International Air Transport Association. Before selecting a carrier, ensure that the company has substantial experience transporting toxic items and is also covered by insurance for mishaps while moving hazardous materials. When selecting shippers, it is critical to consider the frequency of shipping incidents the shipper has seen over time. In our personal experience, the ideal technique to transport hazardous items is determined by the journey’s circumstances. When preparing the transportation of dangerous substances, the type of material, the volume, the endpoint, and the existing transport options must all be addressed. Properly Package the Material Packaging standards differ according to the type, class, and quantity of dangerous items shipped. Packaging is frequently examined and authorized to fulfill the legislation criteria for hazardous goods. So you can’t just go about using regular containers to transport things. One of the most appropriate warning categories of a commodity and its physical qualities are used to pick the suitable dangerous goods packaging. Corrosive substances, for example, cannot be shipped in metal containers despite their rising popularity in construction. Mainly because corrosive substances aggressively clash with metal and inevitably damage the package. As a result, performance container codes that adhere to UN Specifications or DOT-Specification packaging may be required based on the type of dangerous materials and the volume to be handled. Performance packaging codes are particular markings on hazmat labels that identify and define hazardous materials based on the degree of danger they may pose. You may be wondering why such care is taken when packaging hazardous goods. You should know that the proper packaging safeguards the environment and anyone who may come into touch with the material. If hazardous materials are not properly confined, they can harm the environment and humans. Mark and Label the Package Labeling and markings must appear gradually and in a precise area on the exterior of the container. They must be noticeable, which may necessitate a neutral color backdrop or an outer limit of a fine or scattered line. They must also be long-lasting, weather-resistant, and readable. Other identifiers and extensions must not conceal it. Furthermore, the marks and labels must be kept apart from other markings, as advertising may impair the usefulness of the mark. A hazardous package’s contents are described via markings. These symbols are used to communicate information such as the following: The shipping name of
How often do you hear stories about car owners who have had their cars break down due to negligence or poor maintenance? If you’re looking to save some cash on auto repairs, you should take note of these common mistakes. It’s estimated that over 66 million cars are sold each year worldwide. Coincidentally, many drivers don’t realize that they can save money by taking care of their vehicles themselves. The average American drives over 100,000 miles per year. That means there’s a good chance you’ve made at least one mistake in maintenance that could cause serious problems for your vehicle. Preventing costly breakdowns is one of the reasons why car maintenance is important. However, many people are not familiar with the proper way to perform basic checks. If you want your car to run smoothly, you should never ignore these seven things. 1. Ignoring Worn Brakes If you’ve ever had a flat tire that led to a breakdown, you know how important it is to get it fixed immediately. The same goes for your brakes. They should always be inspected regularly. Brake pads wear out over time, causing them to become less effective at stopping your vehicle. This can cause your brake system to fail completely, resulting in a dangerous situation. Your brakes need to be checked once or twice a month. Replacing them before they stop working is the best thing to do if they begin to show signs of wear. Your safety, and that of other drivers, can be at stake if your brakes aren’t working properly. You need to check them regularly and replace worn brake pads as soon as possible. 2. Not Changing Engine Oil Regularly An engine when being overlooked can result in serious damage if the oil isn’t changed regularly. This is because old oil contains metal particles from wear and tear. These particles can clog your engine’s valves, causing them to stick open or close too frequently. When this happens, your engine won’t run properly. Changing your engine oil every 3,000 miles (4,828 km) is recommended by the manufacturer. Waiting too long can damage your engine, so it’s better to act sooner rather than later. It’s easy to forget to change the oil when your car isn’t moving, but it’s one of the most important things you can do to keep your engine healthy. You should also remember not to put too much oil in your car as this will result in unnecessary trouble with engine problems. 3. Overlooking Repairs A car is probably one of your biggest investments. If you want to get the most out of it, then you should invest some time in its maintenance. The cost of vehicle repairs has risen dramatically over recent years. As a result, even minor problems can result in thousands of dollars in repairs. If your car is old or expensive, you should take proper care of it. You will be able to ensure the smooth and safe operation of your car by performing regular servicing and checks. 4. Neglecting Tires It’s easy to forget about tires when you’re driving through rush hour traffic, but neglecting them can lead to serious damage. A flat tire can cost hundreds of dollars to fix, so make sure you check your tires every few months. Drivers are warned when their tires are underinflated or overinflated using tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS). They also provide information on the remaining tread life of each tire. TPMS sensors are installed into the valve stem of every tire. Tires play a vital role in ensuring safe driving conditions. Properly maintained tires ensure better fuel efficiency, lower emissions, and improved handling. 5. Failing to Check Engine Lights You’ve probably heard of the term ‘check engine light‘ before. The vehicle displays these warning signs when there is a problem. The problem is, checking these lights can be tricky. There are three types of check engine lights: 1. Malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) – These lights indicate problems with the ignition system or other components. They come on intermittently and usually go off after a short period of time. 2. Low/high oil pressure light (LHOP) – These lights warn you that your engine has low or high oil pressure. They also come on intermittently and go off after a short time. 3. Service engine soon (SES) – These lights signal that your engine is going to fail within a certain number of miles. They come on constantly and don’t go off until the engine fails. Ignoring a warning light on your dashboard can cause problems down the road. If you don’t pay attention to your vehicle’s warning lights, you might miss important signs of trouble. You should immediately stop if you notice any warning lights while driving. You will be able to determine whether your vehicle has a problem by doing this. 6. Running Car On Reserve Fuel Running your car on reserve fuel can cause serious damage to your vehicle. People always forget to check their fuel level before leaving home. This can lead to a runout of fuel in the middle of the way, hence there are no options except to run the car on reserve fuel. The idea of running your car on reserve fuel might appeal to you if you want to save money. But this practice can cause serious damage to the engine. The first step to preventing such problems is to ensure that your gas tank is properly topped off and checked regularly. 7. Overfilling Gas Gasoline is a highly flammable liquid that contains hydrocarbons and additives. When gasoline is stored in a container, it begins to evaporate. This evaporation causes air pockets to form inside the container. These air pockets can become explosive if enough pressure builds up inside them. When you fill your tank, you should only fill it to the maximum level recommended by your manufacturer. The reason is simple, putting too much gas in your tank can cause your car to break down or
When you are running a business, you need to make sure that you have everything running smoothly. One of the worst things to happen to a business is slow or low productivity. That’s not just in your people, but in your systems, your software and in the way your business is run. If things aren’t running correctly or smoothly, you will find yourself finding it much harder to get your business going. You might also find that business interruption is something that cannot be avoided and it’s these interruptions that are going to cause your business to fail. Instead of worrying about your business failing, you can assure you implement IT support along the way. They will have to be the ones to tell you when your IT needs an upgrade, and I don’t just mean your hardware or your computer systems, but your software, too. With this in mind we have great reasons to upgrade your IT now. Your warranties are about to expire. It’s nice to hang onto computers until they fall apart but when you do this you can end up voiding your insurance. Having very old systems and hardware in your business can mean that you have let your warranties run out a long time ago so when they break down you have to pay for them out of pocket to be repaired. Old systems often mean you have a lack of vendor support who are still around that makes the type of computer that you have. Whilst an outsourced IT team may have some knowledge of your specific hardware that doesn’t mean to be able to help. That’s the functionality. There is a reason that people will queue up for hours looking for the new Apple software or Samsung phone. If the functionality that has been approved. If you want to have new, and expanded functionality then you need to be able to upgrade your IT systems. Technology advances so much faster than you think and there’s so many new and innovative functions that can help you to deliver added business to your customers. You could start accepting payments online compared to what you did before the pandemic, and that can allow people to work from home. It’s the little things that can improve. Security becomes easier. When you upgrade your IT security is much more controlled and ensures that you are able to keep your business and data safe. The rate of cyber attacks is going up right now, and you can avoid this by ensuring that your equipment is secure. Upgrades can help you to do this. You can increase the efficiency. If you want your business picked to be something that people see is productive then you need to work on efficiency. That means looking at ways that you can improve the way that your business is running and a good IT upgrade will help you to do that with ease. Don’t be afraid to get started
Whitby Lobster Hatchery has announced that two offshore wind farms will increase and extend their support to help the charity officially open its doors for the first time and continue its work to create a sustainable future for the Yorkshire coast and the local Whitby area. Both Sofia and Dogger Bank C offshore wind farms will provide funds to the charity to help with the installation of the sophisticated hatchery equipment at its Whitby Fish Market site, which will be used to enable the of release of 100,000 juvenile lobsters into the ocean each year. Sofia Offshore Wind Farm is 100% owned by RWE and Dogger Bank C, the third phase in the wider Dogger Bank Wind Farm, is owned by SSE Renewables (40%), Equinor (40%) and Eni Plenitude (20%). The projects are cooperating closely due to their proximity and to reduce impacts on local stakeholders, including the fishing community. The Hatchery’s small but knowledgeable team works closely with the local fishing industry on its three aims of conservation, primarily of increasing local lobster populations; education to teach young and old about the marine environment, and promoting research in partnership with local universities. Its objectives align closely with those of both the wind farm projects and their owners. Whitby Lobster Hatchery General Manager, Joe Redfern said: “In what has been a concerning past few months for the North East coast, with extremely low lobster numbers and wash-ups on beaches, the hatchery hopes to be part of the solution releasing juvenile lobster into impacted areas. “This funding, and the earlier support provided by both the Sofia and Dogger Bank projects has been hugely influential in helping us deliver our ambitions for the Whitby Lobster Hatchery. It has allowed us to continue to make great steps of progress with the hatchery installation.. Everyone at the hatchery project is extremely grateful for the support we have received from Sofia and Dogger Bank, and we look forward to collaborating in the future. “ The two separate wind farm projects are sited on Dogger Bank in the middle of the North Sea, more than 190 kilometres from the north-east coast of England. The power they produce will be transmitted by export cables that arrive on shore between Redcar and Marske-by-the-Sea, on Teesside. Elizabeth Reynolds, Fisheries Liaison Manager for Dogger Bank Wind Farm, said: “The charity has made huge strides since we initially lent our support, and we’re delighted to be able to help them reach new milestones along with neighbouring Sofia.” “The project will undoubtedly bring huge educational, tourism and conservation benefits to Whitby and its surrounding communities, as well as helping the local fishing industry and supporting a more sustainable future in line with our own ambitions as a developer of renewable energy infrastructure.” Carol Cooper, Sofia’s Fisheries Liaison Manager echoed the sentiments saying: “Sofia is proud to support the charity and acknowledge the great work that Joe and others have done to progress the Hatchery, which will give tangible benefits not only to the local fisheries industry, but to the wider community as well. “By increasing awareness of the marine environment and importance of conservation, the hatchery will become a focal point in Whitby, benefitting the generations to come.” As well as helping with the hatchery equipment, the support from the two offshore wind farms will be a catalyst for Whitby Lobster Hatchery to deliver its conservation aims of releasing 100,000 juvenile lobsters into the ocean every year. By rearing lobster larvae in the hatchery, the charity will dramatically boost the lobsters’ chance of survival. The conservation charity has high ambitions to ensure the protection and conservation of lobster populations in the region and help ensure the future of our fishing fleets. They also hope to inspire young people on the importance of looking after their local environment and create an institute for important marine and fisheries research. The facility will provide an excellent opportunity for jobs and training. Recently they have taken their first intern from Teesside University as well as providing amazing experiences for volunteers. Check out their website if you would like to get involved. Construction work at its fish market location in Whitby has now started, with the specialist designed lobster hatchery due to be open in October. Later this year work will begin to establish a visitors’ centre adjoining the hatchery. The Marine Discovery Centre will provide insight into the fishing industry, our native marine wildlife, and the importance of conservation projects such as the Whitby Lobster Hatchery.
Air quality is a public health issue, especially in urban areas where congestion can cause serious problems for pedestrians and residents. You might assume that rules are not as strict in rural areas, since less traffic and lower population density should ensure air quality is not compromised, even by large agricultural vehicles. The reality is that there are air quality regulations to comply with wherever you’re based, applying to farm trucks just as they apply to family SUVs and compacts. Let’s talk about why these rules matter, and how they are applied across the country. The reasons behind air quality regulations There are many motivating factors that are responsible for the creation of air quality regulations, and one of the main issues is cost. It’s estimated that illnesses caused by air pollution amount to a $150 billion impact on the economy annually. From increasing the prevalence of asthma to catalyzing heart disease, the pollutants and particulates produced by combustion engine vehicles create or exacerbate all sorts of conditions. There are technologies that can reduce air pollution, but it’s best to use these in combination with regulations to limit the emission of dangerous matter in the first place. Different states have different regulations, e.g. CARB in California As with many aspects of the law in the US, there are often sizable gulfs between how air quality regulations are managed and enforced from state to state. The California Air Resources Board (CARB) is one of the most stringent bodies in this regard and regularly updates its rules to make commercial vehicles in particular greener. Manufacturers track these changes and aim to keep up with the strictest regulations with new products, but you can still find CARB compliant trucks on the used market. That means you don’t have to spend a fortune to get compliant. There’s also the Clean Air Act, which is used by the Environmental Protection Agency to hold states to account on legal minimums, and there is also the Clean Trucks Plan which will apply to heavy-duty trucks and other commercial vehicles sold nationwide starting in 2027. Because of these differences, and the variations in how the federal-level regulations apply to depend on the age, size, and use of the vehicle, it’s worth researching your specific needs in depth to ensure you know about your own obligations in this regard. Air quality is impacted by more than just trucks Another point to make about air quality regulations is that sometimes there’s more at play than the rules laid down by the authorities when it comes to determining the amount of pollution that builds up in the atmosphere of a given state. Utah is a great example of this, and it’s primarily down to the fact that the state is laced with mountain ranges, which act as natural barriers to polluted air, trapping it in place rather than allowing it to escape. At the other end of the scale is Hawaii, a state with the best air quality overall, according to the American Lung Association. Again, the reasons for this are geographic, as the main issues it faces are dealing with the threat of volcanic eruptions. Final thoughts Making sure that farm trucks meet air quality regulations is important, because it may impact your ability to visit certain other states, depending on whether your vehicles are compliant. As such it can be seen as a move that makes sense from a business perspective, rather than something that is solely about saving the environment. Even so, it’s still a socially responsible thing to do and will benefit the whole community as well.
Metabo continues their dedication to improving employee health and safety on the jobsite The safety of man and machine is Metabo’s top priority. Because the solutions from the Nürtingen-based power tool manufacturer ensure safe working in every area. Now Metabo is expanding its existing tool safety programme to include an anchoring strap and a safety system for battery packs: the power tool manufacturer is launching three new battery packs with a safety strap. In addition, the Metabo tool securing straps have been equipped with an extra loop to secure the battery pack. Part of the battery securing system is also a new securing connection with which the battery pack is attached to the extra loop of the tool securing strap. “Working high up on scaffolding or roofs has its dangers: Tools can fall down and cause damage. This also applies to battery packs,” explains Metabo Product Manager Alexandra Haas. “So that users can secure the machine and battery pack in future, we have developed a system for securing the battery. This is how we are consistently continuing our safety offensive.” The three new LiHD 18-volt battery packs with safety clip are available as 4.0 Ah, 5.5 Ah and 10.0 Ah battery packs. Safety for man, machine and battery pack To secure the battery pack and machine, the user first selects one of the three Metabo tool securing straps: For machines weighing up to five kilograms, there is the safety belt with carabiner and loop – or as a “Quick Connect” variant with carabiners at both ends for power tools with an eyelet. For machines weighing up to 20 kilograms, the tool safety belt is equipped with an aluminium carabiner and a robust, so-called twist-lock opening that prevents unintentional opening – because to open the carabiner, the rotating sleeve must first be turned 90 degrees before the catch can be slid open. All three tool safety straps have a new extra loop to which the battery pack can be attached. For this, the user also needs the Metabo battery securing connection, which is available in lengths of 30 or 60 centimetres – depending on the machine size. The battery safety connection consists of a carabiner and loop: the loop is pulled through the safety clip on the battery pack and the carabiner is attached to the extra loop of the tool safety strap. And the battery pack and machine are already secured. If there is no suitable attachment point for the carabiner of a tool safety strap, for example because the scaffold is too wide, the new anchoring strap provides a remedy: it can be flexibly looped around the scaffold. The carabiner of the tool safety belt is then hooked into the eyelet at the end of the safety belt. Safe all round The safety belts and the new anchoring belt are certified according to the standards of the American International Safety Equipment Association (ISEA). “With the straps, we can secure almost any power tool. And thanks to our new battery securing system, now also battery packs. Users, machines and battery packs are protected all around with our solutions,” Haas sums up.
