Industrial Scientific welcomes Amanda Birkhead as Vice President of Marketing
Amanda Birkhead, formerly of Honeywell, joins the Industrial Scientific leadership team Industrial Scientific, a global provider in gas detection and safety-as-a-service, is pleased to announce that Amanda Birkhead has joined the company as vice president of marketing. Amanda will be responsible for working cross-functionally to tightly align the company’s go-to-market structure from market visibility and lead generation to sales, with the goal of delivering an outstanding global customer experience. Amanda joins Industrial Scientific from Honeywell, where she demonstrated results in roles of increasing responsibility across marketing, commercial, and product. Most recently, she was the chief product officer for the buildings segment of Honeywell Connected Enterprise, where she led strategy, product management, pricing, and marketing for cloud-based, enterprise software offerings for building control, predictive maintenance/analytics, workplace experience, and business process improvement. Prior to that, she was the chief marketing officer for Honeywell Building Solutions, where she led marketing strategy and execution. “Throughout Amanda’s career, she has developed significant experience in IoT and hardware-enabled software workflows while delivering solutions to real customer problems by combining technology, applications, and deep customer understanding,” said Parker Burke, president of Industrial Scientific. “Amanda will be a true accelerator of Our Vision while showing up each day with her team to progress Our Mission and Our Way.” Amanda holds a Bachelor of Science from Washington University in St. Louis and a Master of Business Administration from the Olin School of Business at Washington University in St. Louis. She has also participated in and completed numerous executive training programs during her tenure at Honeywell.
Parker Burke named president of Industrial Scientific
Industrial Scientific, a global provider in gas detection and safety-as-a-service, is pleased to announce that Parker Burke has been promoted to president. Parker will be responsible for forming and executing the company’s strategy toward preserving human life and ending death on the job by 2050. For the past two years, Parker has led the business as senior vice president and general manager. Prior to joining Industrial Scientific in 2019, Parker was vice president and general manager at Anderson-Negele in Fultonville, New York. Before leading Anderson-Negele, Parker held a number of commercial and operations roles at Gilbarco Veeder-Root. “Parker delivers impressive results, but even more impressive are his humility, thoughtful approach to leadership and service to others,” said Justin McElhattan, group president, EHS Platform at Fortive. “We are pleased to recognize Parker’s strategic role within Industrial Scientific and look forward to his continued leadership.” Parker holds a Bachelor of Science degree in systems engineering from the United States Naval Academy. Following graduation, he served as an officer in the U.S. Marine Corps for over six years. Parker also holds a Master of Business Administration from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University.
Industrial Scientific welcomes Pronitha Shankarananda as Vice President of Product Management
Pronitha Shankarananda, formerly of Fluke, joins the Industrial Scientific leadership team Industrial Scientific, a global provider in gas detection and safety-as-a-service, is pleased to announce that Pronitha Shankarananda has joined the company as vice president of product management. Pronitha will be responsible for leading the Industrial Scientific product management and applications engineering teams while developing and executing the business and product strategy at a global scale. Pronitha joins Industrial Scientific from Fluke, where she spent the last six years in product management, product marketing, strategy, and leading some of Fluke’s largest business units. In these roles, she delivered key wins for both the business and customers across devices, IOT, and software, resulting in a product strategy aimed at solving real customer problems and generating significant growth for the business. Before joining Fluke, Pronitha held roles in enterprise sales, software consulting, and engineering at a variety of companies around the world. “Across Pronitha’s career, she has demonstrated a unique ability to lead and develop teams towards product and business strategies that are truly transformational to both customers and industries,” said Parker Burke, president of Industrial Scientific. “I am eager to see how she accelerates our strategy in pursuit of Our Vision of eliminating death on the job by 2050.” Pronitha holds a Bachelor of Engineering from the National Institute of Technology in Karnataka, India, a Master of Business Administration from the University of Delhi, and a Master of Science in Management Studies from the Sloan School of Management at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
Propane Cylinder 101- Does your crew know all these propane cylinder best practices?
Despite the growing trend towards electrification, propane continues to keep pace in the material handling space thanks to its reliable reputation, clean performance, and easy refueling. In fact, 90 percent of Class 4 and 5 internal combustion engine forklifts are currently being powered by propane. The majority of fleet managers in the middle and top forklift weight classes prefer propane over electric and diesel, according to a survey from PERC (Propane Education & Research Council). Propane cylinders are constructed to U.S. Department of Transportation and National Fire Protection Association standards for quality and contain safety features, like pressure relief valves, making them safe and easy to use. Because propane is a widely used forklift fuel across the country, it’s important for forklift operators to be in the know on cylinder safety and handling practices. Cylinder Handling Following these general guidelines when handling propane cylinders will help ensure safe and efficient operation. Wear an approved protective glove and eye protection. Keep open heat, flames, and ignition sources away from cylinders and refueling equipment at all times. Handle cylinders carefully, making sure not to drop, throw, or drag them. Use proper lifting techniques when lifting cylinders For even more convenient handling, forklift operators can ask their local propane supplier about the use of composite cylinders—a lightweight alternative to traditional steel tanks. Refueling Propane offers a quick, safe refueling process that requires no additional infrastructure or charging needs, like with electric equipment. For forklift operators of propane-powered forklifts, refueling is as simple as swapping out an empty cylinder for a full one. Tips when removing a propane cylinder from equipment Shut the gas off by turning the cylinder service valve until tight (clockwise). Disconnect the gas line by unscrewing the service connection (counterclockwise). A small amount of gas may be released from the gas line upon disconnection, which is normal and doesn’t pose a safety hazard to employees. Release the brackets that hold the propane cylinder. Remove the empty forklift cylinder by using safe lifting practices. Store the empty cylinder in its designated storage area. Make sure to store with the relief valve at the highest point. Tips when installing a propane cylinder on equipment Inspect the cylinder for any damage. If damaged, remove the cylinder from service and notify the local propane supplier on their next refueling stop. In the meantime, tag or mark the cylinder so it’s not used again. Ensure the main service valve on the full cylinder is all the way off. Use safe lifting practices to place the full cylinder on the forklift. The cylinder should be centered in the brackets and in alignment with the alignment pin (with the pressure relief valve at the 12 o’clock position). Once it’s properly situated, secure the cylinder by tightening the brackets. Make sure the straps are secure before operating. Connect the gas line to the service connection and tighten firmly (clockwise). Slowly turn the main service valve on (counterclockwise). Check for leaks. Forklift operators can check for leaks by spraying a solution (one-part soap, one-part water) over the tank connections. If employees notice bubbling or smell any gas, they should turn the valve off and re-check the connection and O-rings. Depending on which refueling option businesses choose, propane suppliers can teach crews how to refill cylinders themselves (on-site refueling) or can refill cylinders for them (cylinder exchange program). Additionally, employees can receive safety training from propane suppliers, including instructions on how to safely install propane cylinders on their equipment. Maintenance Each time cylinders are exchanged or refilled, propane suppliers inspect cylinders, remove damaged cylinders from service, and repair or replace leaky valves and O-rings on cylinders as needed. Storage & Disposal Propane cylinders can last up to three times as long as the average forklift battery. If businesses purchase their propane cylinders, propane suppliers can assist in the disposal of propane cylinders when the time comes. Alternatively, if businesses don’t want to purchase cylinders and storage cases, they can normally lease them from a local propane supplier. Make sure to store propane cylinder storage racks are located a safe distance from heat or ignition sources and protected from exposure to the elements. If need be, local propane suppliers can offer guidance on the best location. To learn more about forklift safety, visit Propane.com/SafetyFirst. Click here to find a local propane supplier. About the Author Matt McDonald is director of off-road business development for the Propane Education & Research Council. He can be reached at matt.mcdonald@propane.com.
PERC steps up campaign to use propane as today’s decarbonization solution
The new study underscores the need to transition to clean energy sources, like propane, as soon as possible The Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) emphasizes the need to accelerate decarbonization today with clean energy sources like propane. A new study from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) found atmospheric levels of carbon dioxide peaked during May 2021 to the highest levels ever recorded at an average of 419 parts per million. “The equipment and energy sources used to move materials daily can have a radical impact on a company’s carbon footprint,” said Matt McDonald, director of off-road business development for PERC. “As the industry continues to fight climate change, we want to encourage material handling professionals to look to propane as a solution. Propane’s environmental performance makes it the perfect energy source for forklift fleets across the country.” Supply chains contribute significantly to a company’s carbon footprint. In fact, carbon emissions in supply chains are, on average, four times those of a company’s direct operations. Forklift fleets are often the workhorse of these operations, creating an opportunity for warehouses and distribution centers to significantly improve their carbon footprint. Propane is a clean, low-carbon alternative energy source and, when used to power forklifts, can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 16 percent compared with gasoline forklifts, sulfur oxide (SOx) emissions by 76 percent compared with electric equipment, and nitrogen oxide (NOx) and hydrocarbon emissions by 94 percent compared with diesel models. Propane’s edge over electric comes down to electric full-fuel-cycle emissions including those produced in the manufacturing, transportation, and disposal of electric forklift batteries. Propane’s low-emissions profile allows the equipment to safely operate indoors (in properly ventilated environments) and outdoors. In fact, well-maintained propane forklifts meet or exceed nationwide indoor air quality standards.
Propane Council launches national brand for Propane
The Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) launched a new identity for propane that signals a seismic change in how to view this reliable energy source. The new brand, PROPANE Energy for Everyone™, highlights propane’s role in ensuring energy equity and reducing carbon emissions. “Americans are beginning to appreciate the value of propane in a wider energy mix after seeing the vulnerabilities of the electric grid in Texas and California and around the country,” says PERC president and CEO Tucker Perkins. “Propane is clean, affordable, and available right now. Unlike the electric grid, it does not require trillions of dollars in infrastructure investment that will create a burden on those who can least afford it. Propane offers solutions for climate, health, and equity.” The PROPANE Energy for Everyone™ brand was created by PERC’s newly selected creative agency of record, Elevation Advertising, after a competitive review. It is rolling out to propane industry partners in anticipation of consumer and market-specific campaigns this fall. “As we familiarized ourselves with the energy sector as part of the competitive review, we realized that propane has a remarkable story that’s not being told,” says Elevation’s co-founder and executive creative director, Aaron Dotson. “Propane is part of a clean energy mix that complements other renewable systems to help reduce carbon emissions today, right now. With the national energy conversation shifting more toward sustainable solutions every day, it’s the perfect time to share propane’s story.” The PROPANE Energy for Everyone™ brand was the top performer in testing with homeowners, business owners, energy influencers, and propane professionals. Millions of Americans use propane for heat, hot water, cooking, and power generation at home and at work. It is also a popular fuel for school buses, emergency first-responder equipment, high-end restaurants, remote farms, and countless other applications. “That’s why propane is energy for everyone,” adds Dotson. “Because everyone deserves access to energy. Everyone.” “The Pro-Energy Icon that forms part of the logo is designed to recall the many users and uses of propane,” Dotson says. “But it’s also calling to mind a stylized landscape of the cleaner world it’s helping to create.” The new brand platform is being introduced to national propane providers and state associations with video, direct mail, and marketing collateral that they can use to communicate the benefits of propane to their customers. “The many propane industry volunteers who helped us choose a new agency and develop the new brand proved themselves to be extremely strategic thinkers,” says Erin Hatcher, senior vice president of marketing and communications at PERC. “With their help, Elevation accomplished an incredible amount of thoughtful work in a short amount of time. We’re excited to be forming this partnership as we continue to educate people about the many benefits of clean propane, the energy for everyone.”
Propane Council announces Mission Zero Pledge, shares free resources for Forklift Safety Day
Take pride in workplace safety and sign PERC’s Mission Zero Pledge In honor of Forklift Safety Day, celebrated June 8, the Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) is encouraging material handling professionals to take its new Mission Zero Pledge and commit to a safe, incident-free workplace. By signing the pledge, material handling professionals will add their name to a list of businesses working toward zero incidents–and will receive a $5 Amazon gift card for their participation. “A strong safety culture is something to take pride in, and this pledge is designed to recognize crews across the country who are already working hard to maintain a safe workplace each day,” said Matt McDonald, PERC director of off-road business development. “At PERC, we take pride in supporting propane users. We believe that together, through ongoing training, education, and engagement opportunities, we can achieve zero accidents.” In addition to the pledge, PERC’s safety landing page is home to a collection of free safety resources including a toolkit for safety directors and forklift dealers, a downloadable safety poster, and PERC’s forklift trivia challenge. Additionally, material handling professionals can watch an eight-part video series emphasizing important safety protocols for those working with or around propane forklifts and access information on how propane suppliers can offer support. To sign the pledge and learn more about forklift safety, visit Propane.com/SafetyFirst.
Essential safety reminders to protect your crews and your bottom line
Brush up on important safety reminders this Forklift Safety Day Forklifts are key to workplace productivity but introduce a variety of hazards—many of which can be mitigated with an educated, proactive workforce. In fact, studies show that roughly 70 percent of all forklift-related accidents could have been avoided with proper training. While Forklift Safety Day provides an opportunity to celebrate workplace safety each year, safety is something that should be top of mind for material handling professionals 24/7, 365 days a year. A simple way to keep crews informed and engaged is by conducting ongoing safety meetings. Here are a few important forklift safety tips to share with crews this June—and throughout the year. Critical forklift safety reminders Complete a routine check of equipment before operating and notify management of damages or problems. Wear personal protective equipment as provided by the employer including hard hats, protective footwear, and high-visibility clothing. Always wear a seatbelt while operating a forklift. It’s important for operators to buckle up while operating a sit-down forklift, as overturned forklifts are a leading cause of forklift-related accidents. Wearing a seatbelt can save operators from being crushed by a machine’s overhead guard or roll cage in the event of an accident. Keep loads within the forklift’s weight capacity. By exceeding the weight capacity of a forklift, employees can greatly increase the risk of tipping the machine. These load capacities can be double-checked in the equipment’s operating manual and are also listed on the machine itself. Operate at a safe speed, use the horn when vision is obstructed, and use caution on grades or ramps. Operators should use the horn to alert pedestrians or other forklift operators nearby to avoid an unnecessary collision. Take corners and turns slowly to minimize the risk of tipping. Set the parking brake, lower the forks, and set any controls to neutral when finished operating. Safely parked machines reduce the risk of unintended movement when left unattended. If a forklift is parked on an incline, employees can further secure the machine with wheel blocks. Different forklift fuels require different safety procedures. It’s important for crews to be aware of fuel-specific safety measures, depending on what they use on-site—this will not only help them get the most out of their equipment and workday but will help prevent potential injuries, too. With 90 percent of Class 4 and 5 forklifts across the United States being powered by propane, it’s important to share proper propane safety practices. Best practices for handling propane cylinders Wear protective gloves. Keep open heat, flames, and ignition sources away from cylinders and refueling equipment at all times. Handle cylinders carefully, making sure not to drop, throw, or drag them. Use proper lifting techniques when lifting cylinders. Safety measures before and after operating propane-powered equipment Inspect cylinders before operation. Check cylinders for rusting, dents, gouges, and leaks. Cylinders that show signs of wear or leaks shouldn’t be used and may need to be replaced, even if within the cylinder’s requalification date. Secure the pressure relief valve on the cylinder. Operators should check that the pressure relief valve fitting is roughly 180 degrees from the forklift’s locating pin. Close the service valves on cylinders when not in use. This helps prevent potential injury around internal combustion engines and unintended fuel loss. Store propane cylinders in a secure rack or cage. The cylinders should be stored horizontally with the pressure relief valves in the uppermost position, and operators should use proper lifting techniques when removing cylinders from storage and placing them onto a forklift. A propane cylinder storage rack should be located a safe distance from heat or ignition sources, away from stairwells and high traffic areas, and protected from exposure to the elements. Fortunately for crews operating propane-powered forklifts, they can lean on their local propane supplier for support. Local suppliers can provide safety training opportunities, inspect cylinders each time they’re exchanged, remove damaged cylinders from service, and repair or replace leaky valves and O-rings on cylinders as needed. Additionally, depending on which refueling option businesses choose, propane suppliers can teach forklift operators how to refill cylinders themselves (on-site refueling) or can refill cylinders for them (cylinder exchange program). Visit Propane.com/SafetyFirst to download PERC’s free safety toolkit or to learn more about propane forklift safety. About the Author: Matt McDonald is the director of off-road business development for the Propane Education & Research Council. He can be reached at matt.mcdonald@propane.com.
PERC Partners with Tecogen for upcoming Webinar on Near-Zero Emission Forklift Technology
Register for free to learn more about clean forklift technology The Propane Education & Research Council is offering a new webinar as part of its “Propane Presents Technology Series” that will discuss next-generation propane forklift technology. The webinar, created in partnership with Tecogen, a manufacturer of clean technologies, will take place at 1 p.m. CST on February 25th. During the webinar, attendees will hear from Tecogen President and COO Robert Panora regarding the company’s near-zero-emission forklift technology. Panora will give an overview of Tecogen’s Ultera® technology and how it can help decrease emissions in the material handling industry without sacrificing power or performance. Additionally, he will share how the latest propane catalyst engine technology is helping businesses meet strict indoor air quality standards. “Manufacturers and propane industry professionals are working to continually improve propane engine technology, especially from an exhaust emissions and fuel efficiency standpoint,” said Matt McDonald, director of off-road business development at PERC. “The material handling and supply chain industry continues to see a shift to cleaner practices and this webinar is a great opportunity to learn more about near-zero-emissions forklift technology.” Ultera® is a proven patented emissions technology comprised of a two-stage after-treatment system that reduces the criteria pollutants of nitrogen oxide (NOx), carbon monoxide, and hydrocarbons. The Tecogen technology represents emissions control strategies that could be implemented on existing lift trucks as a retrofit solution, as well as incorporated into the emissions control designs by all manufacturers of new forklifts. PERC’s “Propane Presents Technology Series” focuses on new and emerging propane technologies, education, and best practices to approach the ideal customer. Hosted and facilitated by PERC, in partnership with various OEMs, the series aims to showcase various propane products across multiple markets, answer questions directly from the industry and end-users, and provide relevant resources and training information.
Badger Material Handling
Amerigas
Airgas
National Propane Gas Assoc
Flame King Cylinders
L.E. Klein Co
Transact (Nissi) Oil and Gas LTD
PERC’s new Webpage addresses important safety issues including Carbon Monoxide Exposure and indoor air quality
The Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) launched a new webpage dedicated to carbon monoxide (CO) safety and indoor air quality. The effort is intended to help raise awareness for CO Safety Month, recognized in November. Located at Propane.com, the webpage aims to educate visitors on propane’s emissions benefits across several industries, including light construction and material handling, through a variety of resources. Resources include a motion graphics video, an infographic outlining the signs of CO exposure, and emissions comparisons of propane equipment versus diesel- and gasoline-powered applications. “According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), one of the most common sources of CO exposure in the workplace is the internal combustion engine,” said Matt McDonald, director of off-road business development at PERC. “That said, we’re excited to use this webpage to reach pros working around internal combustion engine-powered equipment — including propane equipment — to educate them on the dangers of CO, the signs of CO poisoning, and how different fuels used on-site can affect their risk.” Whether used for indoor-use material handling and concrete finishing equipment or outdoor applications, propane provides a clean, safe alternative to gasoline- and diesel-powered small-engine job site applications. That is because propane-powered equipment reduces the amount of harmful emissions workers are exposed to, including CO.
Industrial Scientific introduces Cellular Connectivity for Ventis® Pro5 Multi-Gas Monitors
New cellular connectivity instantly transmits data from Ventis Pro5 monitors to iNet® Now software, delivering the industry’s most complete connected safety solution Industrial Scientific, a global provider in gas detection and connected safety, is pleased to announce the expansion of its connected portfolio to include a cellular battery for the Ventis Pro5 Multi-Gas Monitor in the United States and Canada. The new battery adds future-proof cellular connectivity to existing wi-fi, satellite, and peer-to-peer connectivity options, making the Ventis Pro5 the most flexible connected gas monitor on the market. The Ventis Pro5 with cellular connectivity instantly transmits data to iNet® Now Live Monitoring software, allowing managers to monitor sites, keep workers safe, and make smart decisions at the moment. Supervisors have the power to respond quickly in an emergency thanks to instant alerts with name, location, and hazard data and the ability to communicate efficiently with teams in the field through two-way text messaging. Developed with the latest cellular technology, LTE-M, which was designed specifically for high-reliability industrial IoT applications, the Ventis Pro5 will connect for years to come and allow gas detection programs to scale over time. “Real-time insights on where workers are located and what hazards they face give organizations the power to reduce risk, increase productivity, and strengthen their safety culture,” said Tom Henson, vice president of global marketing and product management at Industrial Scientific. “With additional connectivity options for the Ventis Pro5, more organizations can easily implement connected safety solutions to keep their workers safe.” The cellular battery is now available to order with all new Ventis Pro5 Multi-Gas Monitors. The Ventis Pro5 with cellular connectivity offers reliable coverage through Verizon and AT&T service in the U.S. and Bell, Rogers, and Telus service in Canada provides 14-hours of run time on a single charge and is compatible with existing DSX™ Docking Stations and iNet® Exchange for maintenance and repairs. Learn more about cellular connectivity for the Ventis Pro5 at our webinar on September 24.
Service technician talks propane Forklift Safety in new PERC Video
Get safety tips from a pro in PERC’s new forklift safety video The Propane Education & Research Council released a new forklift safety video, adding to its existing collection of online safety resources. The video features safety tips narrated by a propane service technician. The two-minute video demonstrates propane forklift safety tips for the refueling process. The service technician outlines important topics including proper protective gear, how to inspect tanks for exterior damage, how to put a cylinder on a forklift, how to secure the tank and more. “We’re excited to share this video because it tackles the topic of safety from a perspective we haven’t yet covered,” said Matt McDonald, director of off-road business development at PERC. “The video is quick and digestible for busy crews and we think it will serve as a great supporting resource for anyone that operates propane forklifts.” In addition to the new service technician video, PERC’s forklift safety landing page is equipped with a variety of resources created to support crews nationwide. Resources include an eight-part video series highlighting important safety protocols, a downloadable safety poster, a toolkit for safety directors and forklift dealers, and PERC’s forklift trivia challenge. To access these resources, or learn more about forklift safety, visit Propane.com/SafetyFirst.
PERC reinforces safety, Celebrates National Forklift Safety Day with new resources
New safety resources from the Propane Council aim to support crews nationwide The Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) announced a new collection of safety resources, released in conjunction with National Forklift Safety Day. The free resources — housed online at Propane.com/SafetyFirst — are highlighted with an eight-part video series each emphasizing a different safety protocol for those working with or around propane forklifts. Other resources include a downloadable safety poster, a toolkit for safety directors and forklift dealers, and PERC’s popular forklift trivia game. “These resources were created to help crews build and maintain a strong safety culture not only around National Forklift Safety Day but all year round,” said Jeremy Wishart, director of technical communications at PERC. “The resources are wide in scope, bringing attention to safety reminders big and small. Plus, they can be consumed virtually while much of the country is staying safe at home.” Propane can check many boxes that are important for a successful operation, which is why it becomes a leader in the material handling market. In fact, propane currently holds a 90 percent market share for Class 4 and 5 forklifts. Supply chain professionals across the country are looking to this clean, versatile energy source for reliable power and performance, minimal downtime, and lower emissions. To access the new resources and learn more about forklift safety, visit Propane.com/SafetyFirst. For more information on propane forklifts, visit Propane.com/Forklifts.