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Exploring FIBERMESH- is it right for your project?

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A major component of any construction project is the material. You want the best materials, but you also don’t want to break the Bank. It’s the age-old struggle. Well, there is a product that can tick both those boxes. It’s FIBERMESH. 

What is FIBERMESH?

FIBERMESH is a product made from virgin polypropylene fibers and used to reinforce concrete, especially for floors, driveways, and alllarge, slab-on-grade, pours. Wait... did we write that right? Polypropylene fibers? Yes, we did! FIBERMESH really does reinforce concrete, instead of using wire mesh! 

How does it work?

While the concrete is in its plastic (wet) state, the fibers are added to the mixture and tumbled until evenly distributed. This even distribution helps to reinforce the concrete in all directions and assists with crack control, reducing water loss and increasing impact resistance and compression strength.

Is it the right product for your project?

We know, it seems like FIBERMESH can do it all! As it can do all of the above, it’s both a cost-effective and labour-saving product that can help you complete your project with a long lifespan and safety in mind. With a convenient ratio of 1 bag per cubic metre*, using FIBERMESH gets you the best value for your money.

You’ll also reduce costs by eliminating the wastage factor which projects invariably can, and do, produce. FIBERMESH comes in a water-soluble bag, which you can toss directly into the mixer- the bag will dissolve, allowing for the fibers to begin mixing, hence there’s no wastage and with this feature, you’ll also play a role in saving the environment. We can’t forget the safety factor. Instead of adding wire mesh to an already potentially dangerous environment containing nails, planks, pipes, and wires, the packaging and method of use for FIBERMESH contribute to making your worksite a safer and more productive location.

So, if safety, minimum wastage, environmental protection, and cost are concerns of yours, then FIBERMESH is the product for you!

After all, FIBERMESH is all about “Making Good Concrete Better!”

Safety Supply Co. Inc. stocks four (4) types of FIBERMESH, and our knowledgeable staff would be more than happy to assist you with choosing the correct product for your project. Visit our website to see our selection. Click: https://safetysupplyco.com/shop/concrete-products/fibermesh

 

5 Tips for Working at Home

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5 Tips for Working at Home

The outbreak of the coronavirus has most people working from home. If you're new to working remotely, these tips can help you stay productive and maintain balance. 

Maintain Regular Hours

Figure out what times of day you're most productive versus when you slack off, then Set a schedule, and stick to it. Having clear guidelines for when to work and when to call it a day helps many remote workers maintain work-life balance. 

Create a Morning Routine (to get you in the chair)

Deciding you'll sit down at your desk and start work at a certain time is one thing. Creating a routine that guides you into the chair is another. Having a routine can be more powerful than a clock at helping you get started each day.

Set ground rules with people in your space

Set ground rules with other people in your home or who share your space for when you work. If you have children, set clear rules about what they can and cannot do during that time. Additionally, divide up the house work task fairly, so you’re not overwhelmed by being stuck with the majority of it.

Schedule breaks

Allow yourself a full lunch hour (or two), and take 15-minute breaks as needed.

Get some fresh air

To the extent that it's allowed and safe where you are during the COVID-19 outbreak, get out of the house, provided you can maintain social distancing of course. Your body needs to move. Plus, the fresh air and natural light will do you good.

4 Times You Should Ask For Help at Work

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For some reason, a request for assistance is perceived as a sign of weakness, when in reality, it's a sign of strength and courage. So here are 4 instances when it's definitely time for you to bite the bullet and ask your co-worker for help.

When you have no idea what you're doing

It's ok to approach a colleague to ask for some clarification and assistance to avoid wasting time. So, take a deep breath, then approach your supervisor or one of your co-workers in order to get a better understanding of the particular task at hand.  

When you simply have too much on your plate

Your deadline is approaching and you know you're not going to meet it, request assistance from your co-workers. Be sure to repay the favor next time they need your help.

When you make a mistake

We're humans, it happens... NEVER sweep it under the rug in hopes of anyone not noticing. Instead, approach the appropriate persons in the office immediately to get the problem resolved promptly.

When you need additional expertise or insight

When a project you're working on can greatly benefit from a co-workers advice or talents, never hesitate to ask for their input. It fosters collaboration among team members, and makes your project better than it would've been.

Asking for help is sometimes more essential than it is easy. Breathe in, swallow your pride and ask; it can be that simple.

 

National Stress Awareness Month

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7 Ways to Lead a Stress Free Lifestyle

April has been deemed National Stress Awareness Month and as such we’ve put together 7 ways you can celebrate this rewarding initiative.

• Take control of your health – Taking control of your personal health can make a great difference in the amount of stress you feel. Exercising, a nutritious diet or making that doctor’s appointment you’ve been pushing back, are all ways you can take charge of your body.

• Do something you’ve always wanted to - Take that trip, start that creative or physical hobby, finish that book, a trip to the beach; doing something out of routine can put things in perspective and give you the direction you’ve been needing. 

• Focus on now and worry about nothing - When you realize you can only control the present, you’ll worry less. Escape from the disappointment of what once was and the fear of what might be, and leave stress stuck in a time warp. 

 

• Meditate and Reflect - Take 10 minutes a day to ‘zone out’ and quiet your mind. This releases the stress of the day and allows your mind to be at peace.

 

• Keep a journal - For 5 minutes every day, write and reflect on the day you’ve just experienced and list 5 good things that happened today.

 

• Be optimistic – No matter the challenge, think positively and put a positive spin on it; let this positive mindset become a focal point throughout your life.

 

• Smile awhile and give your face a rest - Whether it’s in the form of a funny video, movie, a comedy podcast or just talking to a good friend; whatever it takes, give yourself time for laughter each and every day.

 

National Ladder Safety Month 2018

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“Every year over 300 people die in ladder-related accidents, and thousands suffer disabling injuries. Without better training and continuous innovation in safety, planning and product design, we will continue to see far too many fatalities.”

Ryan Moss, ALI president and CEO of Little Giant Ladder Systems. National Ladder Safety Month was started to heighten awareness, reinforce safety training, and educate homeowners and working professionals.

Visit http://www.ehstoday.com/national-ladder-safety-month to read the full article. 

 

 

Why Rest Days are Important for Higher Efficiency at Work

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Did you know that the real secret to increased efficiency at work lies in resting? Let’s talk about what you have to gain from making rest a priority. 

Brain Sharpness

Your brain gets tired and fatigued when over used and rest is needed for it to recover. Down time is essential for boosting motivation, reflecting, making memories, problem solving and the list goes on. Without the brain being able to process core information, our productivity will be in-efficient. 

 

More Done in Less Time

A greater sense of accomplishment and productivity has been realized when a study revealed that persons who took one off day each week ended up reporting more efficiency in their endeavors.

 

Time to Review & Reflect

Reviewing and reflecting on work done gives you the insight needed to make any necessary adjustments needed to maintain efficient habits. A rest day is a great opportunity to reflect on accomplishments and failures, which allows you to return to work with the motivation needed to get things done.

 

Healthy Immune System

Getting adequate sleep keeps your immune system primed for attack. Nothing gets in the way faster than a runny, congested nose. Studies show that sleep deprivation costs companies billions every year. Taking a regular rest day with good sleeping habits, will maintain your immune system which keeps illnesses at bay. Are you sleeping well? Find out here: Sleep Hygiene Assessment

 

Creativity

Innovative thinking is hindered when the brain is exhausted. This explains the epiphanies experienced while taking a shower or after waking from a nap. These glimpses of evidence prove that rest is essential for brain matter regeneration. 

 

Energy is needed for the proper function of our physical and mental well-being. Rest days allow us to properly manage and replenish our energy levels in a responsible way. The number of hours you spend at work does not necessarily determine your productivity, but rather the energy and mental awareness you bring to the table. Protect your Energy!

 

Does Branded Workwear Improve Teamwork?

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"Look like a team, play like a team." When it's clear co-workers are both part of the same team, it instinctively encourages trust. Branded company clothing will not fix issues overnight, but it is a powerful tool to help solidify a wider company culture.

Read on to learn more about the benefits of branded workwear.

Work Ethic And Direction

A uniform can be one of the most direct ways to fuel a workforce’s productivity and encourage effective teamwork. The transition between work and social mindsets a lot smoother. This benefits those teams who could benefit from a more professional mindset whilst at work, but keep those employees who find it harder to “switch off” less likely to burn out because, once the uniform is removed, work is over.

Identity

A company uniform therefore offers much more than branding and is a key driving force behind an efficient workforce. It retracts barriers, improves confidence and offers purpose behind company goals, it allows employees to relate to the company in much greater depth.

Equality

By adopting a similar or same uniform for all employees, it allows the individuals working for you to be seen as a team rather than individuals - they’re all equally important and necessary to company success. A staff uniform removes any perception of individual’s earnings, experience or personal previous success, which is essential to avoid any insecurity amongst your workforce. This therefore allows employees to feel valued without any unnecessary causes of jealousy or disdain.

Unity

An employee uniform emphasizes that your workforce is working towards a common goal, encouraging teamwork and togetherness. Conversely, with a relaxed uniform policy or no uniform at all, employee’s sense of direction can often be self-orientated rather than with the business in mind.

Safety Supply stocks a range of workwear attire which can be embroidered with your company's logo. Contact us today for more information.

Respiratory Disease vs. Respiratory Protective Equipment

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When working with hazardous substances such as gases, solvent powdered chemicals and sprays, RPEs (Respiratory Protective Equipment) are used to control exposure and improve air quality and ventilation. Today we’re going to discuss how, when and why RPE is necessary for the environment you’re in. 

Firstly, let’s discuss hazardous substances, what are they?

 

Hazardous substances are defined as any toxic, harmful, corrosive, irritant of asphyxia substance or a mixture of substances including dusts, fumes, gases, mists and vapors, that may produce adverse health effects in individuals when exposed to sufficient quantitates. The list can go on as common gases found in the household such as chlorine, ammonia and wood dust; have adverse effects on our respiratory organs, causing ill health and early death.

 

RPE is divided into two main types: 

• Respirators (filtering devices), use filters to remove contaminants in the workplace air. Filter selection and use requires due care and attention to ensure the safety of wearers. 

• Breathing apparatus (BA), needs a supply of air from a clean source (e.g. an air cylinder or air compressor). BA may be used in situations with reduced oxygen levels.

 

The law requires employers to prevent or control the exposure of employees and others to hazardous substances at work. RPE should be used as a last resort- when inhalation exposure risk remains after you have put every other practicable measure in place. It may also be used as additional protection in case other control measures fail to operate.

 

Good health, safety training and support can minimize or remove the risk to employees of respiratory health issues. Risk assessments should be carried out to reduce the effects of dangerous substances and environmental solutions put into place, for example adequate ventilation, warning signs and appropriate equipment. All employees should be kept properly informed about risks associated with the handling of dangerous substances and be provided with appropriate guidelines for handling them as well as relevant health checks.

 

Why is RPE a last choice for protection?

RPE only protects the wearer, controlling the environment around you can protect everyone working in the area. RPE should NOT be used in environments where oxygen levels are low.

 

To make sure wearers are getting the most protection from RPEs, it must be correctly selected, used and maintained. A mismatch between the RPE and the environment is costly & dangerous. 

Users should be trained to use and maintain RPE.

 

Safety Supply stocks half and full face RPE for your convenience. Our knowledgeable staff would be more than happy in assisting you with choosing the correct gear for your environment. Visit our website to see our selection. Click Here: http://bit.ly/2ENpP0k

10 Tips to Improve Workplace Communication

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In every aspect of life (professional and personal), communication is crucial to success and happiness. The quality of a business’s internal communication often says a lot about the company itself. Here are 10 tips to improve workplace comradery:

1. Checking in with employees is essential, meet regularly either in person or online, with an open invitation to share their thoughts and feelings about projects, tasks or the organization on the whole.

2. Make internal knowledge & documents easily accessible-For newer employees, it can be difficult to learn the ropes of an organization and how it truly operates. Making internal knowledge easily available via documentation on your social intranet is a great way to keep communication flowing.

3. Have an ‘open door’ policy- where employees feel comfortable speaking to management.

4. Take advantage of social media and social intranet. You can use both to allow employees to share their interests with each other, creating meaningful work-related conversations.

5. Identify a common goal- It’s important for employees to be on the same page and mindset, in order for the common goal to be achieved.

6. Focus on company culture- Integrate company culture in your regular workday. You can do this by incorporating your branding into office décor, social intranet and other collateral.

7. Schedule ‘Out of Office’ Activities- Allow your employees to get to know each other better, by focusing on non-work related activities. Remember team-building exercises don’t always have to revolve around getting actual work done.

8. Use an anonymous ‘Suggestions Box’- You can benefit greatly from setting a "suggestion box" in your office that allows for employees to anonymously comment on things they'd like to see improved. People aren't always comfortable bringing up their concerns, after all, and are more likely to do so if they can take an anonymous approach.

9. Ask Questions- Asking your employees how they like to receive information (through the social intranet, email, newsletters, etc.) can help you create a more effective plan for regular communication. 

10. Celebrate Your Achievements- Celebrating what you as a team achieved, will boost the moods of everyone who had a hand in the success of the company.

 

High-Visibility Clothing, Do You Need It?

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The main purpose of Hi-Vis clothing is to improve your visibility, making you more identifiable in traffic, construction and low-light environments. This is particularly important when there is rain, fog or when the wearer may be obscured by trees, barriers etc.

Should you be wearing high visibility clothing? Ask these questions when assessing the situation for hazards.

·      Are you in an environment with moving traffic or equipment? 

·      Do the work conditions involve low visibility and traffic flow or machine operation?

·      What is your working environment; is it complex, cluttered or filled with equipment? 

·      What are the lighting conditions and weather conditions (fog, rain, sunlight)?

·      Consider the speed of the vehicles, the size of the vehicles and how fast they can stop on the conditions of the surface.

·      Are there any hazard controls in place such as barriers that separate the traffic from you?

Although Hi-Vis clothing is important, it should be the last defense for workers, and other measures should be put in place to protect workers from unnecessary hazards when working in low visibility environments. Safety Supply offers a wide range of reflective clothing, which can be embroidered with your company’s logo, for a more personalized look. Browse our products here: http://safetysupplyco.com/shop/clothing/reflective-gear

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