OSHA to issue COVID-19 Vaccine Mandate for private employers
According to the White House website, President Biden has ordered the Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to issue a vaccination mandate for certain private, large employers as part of a comprehensive COVID-19 strategy. The President seeks to reduce the number of unvaccinated Americans by using regulatory power. As part of this initiative, OSHA is slated to publish an “emergency temporary standard” in the Federal Register compelling private employers with 100 or more workers to ensure their employees are vaccinated, or the company will be required to conduct weekly testing of unvaccinated employees. The administration will require these same employers to provide paid time off to allow workers to get vaccinated or to recover if they become sick after receiving the shot. This mandate is expected to affect tens of millions of workers. The new regulation is intended to deal with the highly contagious Delta variant of the virus that is causing more than 150,000 new COVID-19 cases and 1,500 deaths every day in the US. Does OSHA Have Authority? Does OSHA have the authority to enact these standards? According to their website, “Under certain limited conditions, OSHA is authorized to set emergency temporary standards that take effect immediately and are in effect until superseded by a permanent standard.” OSHA must determine that workers are in grave danger and that an emergency standard is needed to protect them. The Procedure The agency will publish the emergency temporary standard requiring vaccinations in the Federal Register. When they do so, it will also serve as a proposed rule subject to the usual rulemaking procedures – with the difference that if a final rule is enacted, it must be promulgated within six months of publication. The validity of an emergency temporary standard may be challenged in an appropriate U.S. Court of Appeals. COVID-19 Safety Awareness Online Training To help US workplaces safely resume and continue operations, Lion launched the COVID-19 Employee Safety Awareness Online Course. The course is designed to help satisfy training mandates for employees concerning COVID-19, preparing employees to: Recognize signs, symptoms, and risk factors for COVID-19 Describe how the COVID-19 disease is transmitted Follow recommended hygiene and work protocols to prevent exposure Properly use and care for PPE and face coverings, when required This self-paced online course is updated regularly to reflect evolving information on COVID-19 workplace exposure. As more employees nationwide return to work, it is crucial that they know how to protect themselves and their co-workers from exposure to COVID-19.
Get the jump on versatile performance with Brass Knuckle® Grasshopper Dust Goggle/Spectacle
Lean, green comfort machine offers eye protection in two ways From its stylish green color, you can tell Brass Knuckle® Grasshopper (BKDST-1010N) dust goggle/spectacle is on the money. It offers workday versatility and never sacrifices forget-you-have-it-on comfort. A soft, comfortable EVA foam dust filter with built-in air channels fills the gap between glasses and the face, keeping dust out. The filter also easily removes, transforming Grasshopper into standard protective eyewear. Lenses are durable polycarbonate, meet or exceed ANSI/ISEA Z87.1-2020, and are manufactured with Brass Knuckle’s industry-leading BK-Anti-Fog™ anti-fog coating. BK-Anti-Fog performance testing shows its anti-fog capability exceeds the world’s most stringent anti-fog standard — European EN 166/168 — lasting 15 times longer. This high degree of fog protection makes Grasshopper perfect for jobs requiring workers to migrate between widely varying temperature extremes that make fogging eyewear a true occupational hazard. Excellent for processing environments and other industries with refrigeration units, for workers challenged by the hottest and most humid conditions indoors and out, and for combating warm air exhaled during COVID-related mask-wearing. The sporty European design features a stylish, wraparound lens for an unobstructed field of vision. Bend-but-don’t-break flexible thermoplastic rubber (TPR) grass-green temples provide hypoallergenic, non-slip comfort, adapting to any facial profile without distorting optics. Grasshopper is also fully dielectric (no metal anywhere) for an extra measure of safety. Choose Grasshopper’s multifaceted protection and get the jump on any job that requires robust dust and fog protection while maintaining versatility as standard protective eyewear.
Emerson LED Emergency Exit lighting helps manufacturing plants offer safer workspaces
New Exit Signs rated for hazardous industrial locations Building on its leadership in providing advanced hazardous location electrical equipment, Emerson Automation Solution has announced the availability of the Appleton HEX series LED Hazardous Location Exit Sign, rated for C1D2- areas. The signs are specifically designed to provide bright and reliable emergency illumination during a crisis involving loss of power, as well as to perform as standard signage marking escape routes and exits in hostile industrial environments, such as oil refineries, underground tunnels, wastewater treatment centers, and other facilities where flammable gases and vapors are present. Appleton HEX series LED Hazardous Location Exit Signs come prewired for fast installation, offer 6 kV of surge protection standard, and are dual voltage to run at 120V or 277V. Equipped with a 4.8V rechargeable nickel-cadmium battery, the signs provide failsafe emergency operation for 90 minutes or more upon loss of AC power. Self-diagnostic circuitry tests operational conditions monthly, bi-annually, or annually. If a failure is detected, the visual status on the LED indicator lights up immediately to alert plant maintenance to perform repairs. Diagnostics testing can also be prompted on-demand using the included magnet flash. Today’s LED technology is ideal for Appleton HEX series LED Hazardous Location Exit Signs. Capable of years of maintenance-free operation, LEDs promise unparalleled energy efficiency to achieve a far lower cost of operation compared to typical self-illuminated exit markers. Additionally, LEDs do not use glass enclosures or filaments and are therefore resistant to vibration and impact from heavy machinery. And in industrial facilities subject to fluctuations in ambient temperatures, LEDs perform better than traditional lighting sources since this technology creates little heat and performs even at temperatures well below freezing. By leveraging LEDs, Appleton HEX series LED Hazardous Location Exit Signs provide the necessary brightness to be visible through smoke, darkness, and fog to give workers greater situational awareness when identifying the location of exits. Appleton HEX series LED Hazardous Location Exit Signs are UL Listed for use in Class I, Div. 2 (C1D2) applications and in wet locations. Walkways, exit ramps, stairs, and aisles are typical installation locations.
Less than three weeks until PACK EXPO Las Vegas and Healthcare Packaging EXPO opens its doors
Here’s what to expect at the only show this year to reunite the packaging and processing community Industry excitement remains high, with the largest registration week to date for the long-awaited return of live, in person technology at PACK EXPO Las Vegas and Healthcare Packaging EXPO (Sept. 27-29, Las Vegas Convention Center). Visit the show website for up-to-date stats on the first packaging and processing show in 18 months. Show producer PMMI, The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies, will reunite the packaging and processing community with over 1,500 exhibitors, world-class education, and countless networking opportunities spread across four expansive halls at the Las Vegas Convention Center. “We can’t wait to welcome the industry back to the PACK EXPO show floor,” says Jim Pittas, president and CEO, PMMI. “With nearly 2,500 new registrations coming in last week alone, the industry is looking forward to seeing brand new show features, engaging in-person, and exploring new technologies never seen before. It is sure to be a meaningful event not to be missed.” The popular Processing Zone, located in the North Hall, returns this year featuring solutions to increase efficiency, achieve total system integration and help ensure safety. It is complemented by the new Processing Innovation Stage, focusing specifically on the latest breakthroughs in processing. The PACK to the Future exhibit debuts this year, which celebrates the role of packaging and processing through history and the impact it is poised to have on the future. The curated exhibit includes nearly 30 pieces of historical equipment, materials, and photographs spanning 250 years. It will also feature, robotics teams from Las Vegas area high schools showcasing their robots in the Future Innovators Robotics Showcase, sponsored by Rockwell Automation. The accompanying PACK to the Future Stage will offer free, thought-provoking sessions on groundbreaking advancements by industry experts in pharmaceutical and cannabis packaging, wireless factory automation, sustainable alternatives, smart packaging, artificial intelligence, and more. Education will be front and center at PACK EXPO Las Vegas and Healthcare Packaging EXPO 2021, with free 30-minute exhibitor-hosted seminars on breakthroughs and best practices at The Innovation Stages running every day on the show floor. The Forum will offer free, 45-minute learning sessions on the latest industry trends, including small group discussions and Q&As with leading organizations like the OpX Leadership Network, CPA, the Association for Contract Packagers and Manufacturers, The Organization for Automation and Control (OMAC) and PMMI Business Intelligence. Another returning favorite, the Technology Excellence Awards, allows attendees to recognize and vote on innovative exhibitor technology never displayed at a PACK EXPO event. Winners will be announced at the show on Tuesday, Sept. 28. Additional packaging award winners from the past year-plus will reside at The Showcase of Packaging Innovations®, sponsored by WestRock, and located within The Containers and Materials Pavilion. The Packaging & Processing Women’s Leadership Network (PPWLN) Breakfast: The New World of Work on Tuesday, Sept. 28, will feature Tracey Noonan, co-founder, and CEO of Wicked Good Cupcakes, as keynote speaker, followed by a panel discussion on how to thrive in this fast-changing world, with Yolanda Malone, vice president of global RD Foods at PepsiCo, and AJ Jorgenson, vice president of strategic engagement at The Manufacturing Institute. The breakfast is sponsored by Emerson, ID Technology, Morrison Container Handling Solutions, Plexpack, Septimatech Group Inc., and SMC. PACK EXPO Las Vegas and Healthcare Packaging EXPO also boasts a large number of Notable Pavilions. The PACKage Printing Pavilion (North Hall) focuses on the advantages of digital printing. The Containers and Materials Pavilion (North Hall) highlights the latest innovations in paperboard, glass, metal, and plastic, flexible and resealable packaging, as well as containers and materials. The Reusable Packaging Pavilion, sponsored by the Reusable Packaging Association (RPA) (South Upper Hall), will showcase sustainable packaging solutions to help reduce waste, cut costs and gain chain efficiency. The Confectionery Pavilion, sponsored by National Confectioners Association (NCA) (South Upper Hall), is the one-stop shop for the latest trends and technologies relating to aeration, batch refining, shaping, cluster production and more. The Workforce Development Pavilion (North Hall) is the place for resources to strengthen and grow the existing workforce. PACK EXPO Las Vegas and Healthcare Packaging EXPO also gets students excited about careers in packaging and processing. The Amazing Packaging Race, sponsored by Emerson, brings teams from colleges and universities to complete tasks at the booths of participating exhibitors. To keep track of all the new additions as well as old favorites, attendees can use My Show Planner to search exhibitors, schedule appointments in advance, add education sessions, and plan routes around the show floor. The show’s mobile app, sponsored by ProMach, syncs with your My Show Planner and is the perfect on-the-go solution to search exhibitors, products, and educational sessions, create and save a personal agenda and navigate from booth to booth using the interactive map. Search “PACK EXPO” in the App Store or Google Play, or visit packexpolasvegas.com/app Registration, which includes access to both PACK EXPO Las Vegas and Healthcare Packaging EXPO, is $30 through Sept. 10 and then increases to $130. For more information and to register online, visit packexpolasvegas.com and hcpelasvegas.com. PACK EXPO Las Vegas and Healthcare Packaging EXPO are implementing the PACK Ready health and safety plan following the current local regulations and will continue to update exhibitors and attendees as things develop. Visit packexpolasvegas.com/packready for the most up-to-date information.
Wildeck, Inc. welcomes Angela Wurtz as Director of People Operations
Wildeck, Inc. is pleased to announce and welcome Angela Wurtz as its new Director of People Operations. Angela will be responsible for all aspects of managing the People Operations function at Wildeck, including recruiting, training and development, engagement, employee relations, compensation, and payroll. Angela brings nearly 15 years of experience related to various HR functions, including recruiting, onboarding of new employees, human resource information systems, employee relations, and leadership. “Angela’s extensive leadership and expertise in HR functions with reputable organizations made her the clear choice to lead our People Operations department.” Commented Dan Lorenz, president of Wildeck, Inc. “I am confident that Angela’s background will bring in a new perspective that will reshape our organization to be competitive in today’s workforce and retain top talent. I look forward to her contributions as we continue to grow to unprecedented levels.” Angela earned a B.S. Degree in Business Management, Concentration in Human Resource Development from Herzing University, and is certified as a Professional in Human Resources by the Human Resources Certification Institute.
KEEN Utility pushes boundaries with work sneaker
The new Kansas City from KEEN Utility is a standout introduction for Fall ‘21, pushing the boundaries of what a work sneaker can do. Highly versatile, light on weight, and loaded with performance features, the Kansas City seamlessly transitions between indoor and outdoor work. The Kansas City is the first work sneaker to boast KEEN.BELLOWS Flex technology, an ergonomically engineered system designed to offer multidirectional flexion making bending, squatting, kneeling, and knee-down work up to three times easier. Other product highlights include a KEEN.ReGEN performance cushioning midsole that returns 50% more energy than standard EVA foam, as well as an oil- and slip-resistant, non-marking lugged outsole tread design for optimal traction. Additional safety features of this medium-duty boot include asymmetrical carbon fiber toes that are 15% lighter than steel, KONNECTFIT heel-capture system to lock the heel down for sure-footed stability, and a completely non-metallic construction combined with EH rated protection underfoot from live electrical circuits. The new Kansas City is available in low, mid-height, and mid-height waterproof styles for men.
Brass Knuckle® SmartSkin™ Nitrile Gloves: Double-dipped for twice the protection, grip
Two coats of NBR for extra protection from the world’s worst jobs Why the double dip? Usually, because you want more of something good. In the case of Brass Knuckle® SmartSkin™ nitrile gloves (BKNITR2), double-dipping them in nitrile butadiene rubber (NBR) gives wearers twice the protection and twice the grip. Nitrile stands up to chemicals, oils, most harmful cleaning solvents, and resists bodily fluids and waste. If you have to work in unpleasant substances and it’s vital that you hang onto your tools, SmartSkin is the right choice. SmartSkin starts with a thin gauge, 18 mil nylon shell with a full NBR overcoat. Then a second coat of NBR is added to full fingers and palm—and this coat has a sandy finish that’s extra grippy, even when wet. In addition to added grip, the second coat provides extra resistance to abrasions, tears, and punctures in critical wear areas (nitrile has three times the puncture resistance of latex). SmartSkin gloves are also the barrier of choice for workers in the oil and gas sector. These workers need impermeable gloves that protect against skin exposures when working around any oil operations and when transferring process fluids. Durable nitrile is the ideal protection for these applications and more. An estimated six out of every 100 professional janitors suffer chemical-related injuries, which include burns to the skin caused by harmful chemicals found in cleaners. These same workers require protection from bloodborne pathogens, germs, and good-old-fashion yuck. When you really don’t want to touch it, but your job says you have to, SmartSkin bears the brunt for you, protects your skin, and makes it easier to grip tools.
HikCentral professional platform delivers centralized Video and Access Control System Management and Analysis
Provides A Single Platform to Remotely Manage Physical Security Operations Hikvision’s HikCentral Professional platform provides a centralized software solution to remotely view and manage all facets of an organization’s integrated physical security systems. The advanced platform delivers vast integration and management capabilities for video surveillance, access control, video intercom, and various specialty solutions such as under vehicle surveillance, along with a host of embedded intelligent analytics and system analysis tools. “HikCentral Professional is a truly integrated physical security platform. It combines the agility of a powerful video management system (VMS) and intelligent analytics with other mission-critical security systems such as access control and video intercom systems to provide users with comprehensive management, control, and analysis solution,” said John Xiao, Vice President Marketing, Hikvision USA. “HikCentral Professional provides security professionals with a comprehensive yet cost-effective solution that delivers advanced system integration, control and management to effectively improve physical security operations.” HikCentral Professional provides full-featured VMS operation with remote management across multiple sites. The platform is infinitely scalable to accommodate users’ evolving needs and is designed for easy operation with user-friendly drop-down menus, as well as detailed device, event, and health monitoring features to ensure uninterrupted operation. Advanced VMS features include visual tracking of individuals across the surveillance network, adaptive video display windows to customize administrators’ camera views, and map management of system devices with click-to-view capability and visual alarm identification. In addition, the advanced platform is embedded with advanced analytics including motion analysis, line crossing detection, intrusion detection, people counting, queue analysis, heat analysis, personal article feature detection (hat, glasses, the color of clothing…), temperature analysis, and vehicle analysis. HikCentral Professional also includes several playback features to quickly locate video footage of interest with the ability to easily export video clips in multiple standardized video format files such as MPEG4 to easily share for investigations and to use as evidence. HikCentral Professional just doesn’t integrate with other third-party access control systems, it includes a comprehensive access control solution platform ready for seamless connection to Hikvision’s extensive offering of access controllers and readers, and video intercom products. Integration with third-party systems is simple with Hikvision’s Optimus middleware solution. It’s easy to create “Connectors” into Optimus—integrations, and workflows to meet your project requirements—from HikCentral to a third-party system such as access control, automation protocols, HVAC, payroll systems, and more. Connectors can also enable data synchronization and mapping among multiple systems. HikCentral health monitoring features include the ability to display system topology in real-time with CPU, RAM network speed, and video streaming usage. The system also supports upgrading the firmware of multiple devices simultaneously with maintenance history dashboards to make system maintenance accurate, fast, and easy.
Panasonic i-PRO Sensing Solutions Corporation of America will change its name in April 2022
Panasonic i-PRO Sensing Solutions Corporation of America, a subsidiary of Panasonic i-PRO Sensing Solutions Co., Ltd. and a global leader in advanced sensing technologies in the fields of Intelligent Surveillance, Public Safety, and Industrial/Medical Imaging, announces that it will be changing its company name to i-PRO Americas Inc. on April 1, 2022. Established in 2019, Panasonic i-PRO Sensing Solutions Corporation of America has focused on being a versatile and agile company that is dedicated to delivering new and innovative technologies and solutions. This name change is the next chapter in their story. “This is an exciting time for us, and the name change has always been a planned part of our journey. When we started in 2019, we committed to delivering new technologies more efficiently and more quickly. We kept this commitment,” said Bill Brennan, president. “i-PRO Americas Inc. is simply the next chapter, and we are looking forward to building on the foundation that we have laid down over the last 20 months. We will still deliver the same high-quality products and solutions. Only now it will be as i-PRO Americas Inc.” As this name change will not take place until April 1, 2022, the company will continue to go by its current name, Panasonic i-PRO Sensing Solutions Corporation of America, until that time.
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.
First truly Modular Mezzanine allows businesses to quickly and cost-effectively increase capacity
Custom Industrial Products, the Pioneer of Modular VRC Material Lifts, expands its business with the launch of new Modular Mezzanines Custom Industrial Products (CIP) announces the launch of a new Modular Mezzanine solution that enables businesses to increase their usable space and capacity at a significantly lower price point. CIP’s Modular Mezzanines are 10-foot X 10-foot solid steel raised-platform sections that support up to 125 pounds per square foot L.L. Each section, or unit can be used separately or bolted together in series to provide a flexible and scalable capacity solution ideal for space-constrained warehouses, factories, and distribution centers. “This modular approach provides a completely different way of solving your capacity issues,” said VP of National Sales. “Instead of custom building a solution to fit the needs of your building, this allows businesses to add capacity to fit the needs of their business.” Mezzanines are a proven, cost-effective way to expand capacity because they utilize already existing vertical space. Maximizing vertical space allows companies to store away non-essential items, increasing floor productivity and worker safety. CIP’s new Modular Mezzanines provide an additional level of flexibility, scalability, and cost-efficiency. Since each unit can be combined and bolted to another unit there is no need for on-site welding, and you can configure the sections into a variety of shapes to meet your specific space. For example, if you only need 100 square feet of additional floor space, you will use one unit. If you need 1,000 square feet, you will use ten units. The shape of that configuration, where you place your access stairs, or a VRC material lift is completely up to you. “I think one of the best things about this modular approach is the scalability,” continued Powers. “You only need to buy the amount of additional capacity you need right now. In the future, if you need additional sections and you have space, you can add more units. This also means they are ideal for all growing businesses, big and small.” The modular approach also dramatically reduces delivery and installation time. “Because these interchangeable units just bolt together, there’s no need to weld anything and they can be installed in a matter of days as opposed to the weeks when dealing with most custom mezzanines,” said Rob Railis, Director of Business Development. CIP also manufactures all necessary safety handrails, guard rails, safety gates, and bollards. The modular mezzanine at full capacity, no matter how many units are combined, transfers that load to no more than 12,500 pounds per square foot of structural load onto your floor or foundation. That, plus the weight of the mezzanine itself and other material on your ground floor, is what your floor and foundation need to support. “The entire CIP engineering team was tasked with coming up with a game-changing mezzanine solution and they delivered. This system is easy to configure, can be installed quickly, is scalable, places a minimal structural load on your floor and provides a greener approach to expansion since it uses the available space you are already heating and cooling,” said Chris Powers, Chief of Engineering. “We believe our modular mezzanine is going to be a huge hit in the marketplace.” For more information about CIP’s unique Modular Mezzanines go to https://customindprod.com/mezzanines/ Standard Features and Specifications: Supports 125 pounds per square foot L.L. Industrial heavy-duty columns and base plates Nut and bolt assembly OSB flooring over B-Decking 2-rail heavy-duty handrail Available Options Bar grating decking IBC stairs 4’ x 4’ landing
When rain or sweat is pouring down, Don’t live with it—Channel It!
Brass Knuckle® Crusher safety goggles with contoured channels route moisture away from eyes Whether working in the elements or working up a sweat, only Brass Knuckle® Crusher (BKDST-1020NP) safety goggles have specialized channels along the brow line to move water and sweat away from the eyes, while the rubber gasket seals glasses snugly against the face. The gasket does double-duty as anti-dust protection, too. Only Crusher offers this unique type of liquid splash protection from a traditional dust goggle. Crusher is the ultimate in see-clearly workwear. Not only do the contoured channels route moisture away to help vision remain clear, but proprietary BK-Anti-Fog+™ anti-fog technology also offers superior performance under the highest heat and humidity for a long-lasting, fog-free view. Crusher’s design is popular for its modern look. The cool wraparound styling of the one-piece 10 base curve lens offers high-impact protection and an unobstructed field of vision—an almost unprecedented optic range. But make no mistake; this is more than a looker. Super-flex temples hug any size face and TempleTouch™ technology comfortably grips the sides of the head with molded-in nibs behind the ears. A secure fit is as simple as turning the PivotEase™ nosepiece to a narrow position and then sliding the eyewear on. It adjusts automatically and then “locks” into the perfect, no-slip positioning. Every pair comes with an optional strap to further secure the fit.
Updated KINETIC Reflex Dashboard makes it easier for operators to ensure devices are being worn
Cleaner look-and-feel as well as new metrics and reports for easier deployment, more actionable insights, and streamlined data interpretation KINETIC, the company providing wearable technology that fosters safe environments for the industrial workforce, today announced an updated dashboard interface to its Reflex wearable device and software analytics platform that provides a cleaner look-and-feel, new metrics, and new reports for easier deployment, more actionable insights, and streamlined data interpretation. The update also includes improved weekly email reports that allow industrial operators to fully leverage their data and easily compare key metrics. “Because participation drives success when it comes to wearables, KINETIC is making it even easier for operators to manage their devices and increase engagement,” said Haytham Elhawary, CEO and cofounder at KINETIC. “The updated Reflex dashboard ensures that, at a glance, they’ll be able to easily see their device inventory and take immediate action.” Enhanced dashboard and email reports are meant to allow managers to be more focused and effective with their time. KINETIC is providing succinct and consistent workplace analytics so teams can easily communicate and act on insights, such as training and workplace redesign opportunities. New KINETIC Reflex dashboard features deliver the following benefits: Ease of Deployment – With all their devices visible on a single page, management can easily monitor participation and determine which devices are available to assign to employees. A Weekly Active Time metric highlights which employees are wearing the devices, including the frequency and duration of use. Actionable Insights – Hourly High-Risk Posture comparison metrics allow operators to compare risk levels across employees and jobs, including varying-length shifts. Enhanced Coaching – Individual employee reports enable the sharing of data with employees to support company coaching efforts and celebrate employees’ safety wins. Streamlined Data Interpretation – Weekly email reports distill the data and highlight key metrics at both the individual-facility and facility-wide levels. Read the KINETIC blog: New: Increase Participation and Make More of Your Data
Recognize Safe + Sound Week, August 9-15, 2021. It’s time to register.
Safe + Sound Week is a nationwide event held each August that recognizes the successes of workplace health and safety programs and offers information and ideas on how to keep America’s workers safe. Why Participate? Successful safety and health programs can proactively identify and manage workplace hazards before they cause injury or illness, improving sustainability and the bottom line. Participating in Safe + Sound Week can help get your program started, energize an existing one, or provide a chance to recognize your safety successes. Who Participates? All organizations looking for an opportunity to recognize their commitment to safety are welcome to participate. Last year, more than 3,400 businesses helped to raise awareness about workers’ health and safety! Participating is as easy as 1-2-3! Click below for more information. Sign Up to Participate Let us know you are participating this year by registering now. Plan and Promote Your Events Identify activities and events to plan and promote for your workplace or community. Check out our example activities, graphics, and other resources. Recognize Your Participation After you’ve completed your events, you can download a certificate and virtual challenge coin to recognize your organization. Register now by clicking here.
EP 191: Manhattan Associates COVID-19 guidelines
On this episode, I was joined by Peter Schnorbach of Manhattan Associates. Peter is the Senior Director of Product Management at Manhattan Associates and we connected back at ProMatDX to discuss some COVID-19 guidelines they had put out and also talk about which ones will continue on beyond the pandemic and their labor management system. While we seem to be moving on from COVID there are still some really great pieces of information on how it has an impact on the way we move forward. Key Takeaways Manhattan Associates brings software solutions to the marketplace to help your business operate more efficiently. They are well known for their supply chain suite which covers a wider variety of systems that operate in our space. This includes a warehouse management system (WMS), a yard management system, and what we focused on in our discussion which is the labor-management system. The labor-management system helps to track all productivity in your operation so you can ensure that you plan your resources properly and understand your capacity utilization. When it comes to COVID Guidelines I think we have all become pretty familiar with them. What I was interested in learning from Peter was his thoughts on what guidelines will stick with us as we head out of the pandemic. There were two very interesting guidelines that sound like they will stick and definitely caught my attention. The first was the utilization of mobile apps to communicate with your employees. I learned about two apps that I had not heard about previously which are Shyft and Work Jam. These apps allow you to send out notifications to your employees on when shifts are available or when extra coverage is needed. I love this idea because it gives you more flexibility and better planning tools because you do not need to wait until the employees come in for work next to ask if they can cover a different shift. The second takeaway from our discussion around COVID guidelines was the guideline to maintain and create open and honest communication within your operation. I believe this is such a key factor to overall success in business not just during COVID but all the time. Doing this allows you to have better insights into what is happening in all aspects of your operation because your employees will tell you what is going on without any hesitation. This is the best way to improve and ensure that you are on the proper track for growth. Listen to the episode below and check out all the guidelines from Manhattan Associates after the episode. The New Warehouse Podcast EP 191: Manhattan Associates COVID Guidelines
The “Just Right” Glove: VyBlend™ Synthetic Vinyl Gloves
Fit and feel of latex, better durability than vinyl, right-priced The quest for a “just right” disposable glove is seemingly never-ending. While latex offers perfect fit and feel, some people are allergic (limiting not only who can wear them, but in which applications they can be used). Nitrile mimics the feel of latex, but at a premium price. Vinyl is priced right but lacks the durability some applications demand. PVC has finite dexterity. And on and on it goes. Hospeco Brands Group’s VyBlend™ Synthetic Vinyl Gloves, available in industrial and exam grade, is the “just right” solution. They have the fit and feel of latex. They are softer and more durable than standard vinyl gloves, with finer dexterity and comfort. Plus, they are better for the environment because they are phthalate-free (no DINP, DOP, or DEHP are used in the plasticizing softening process). VyBlend arrives as demand for quality, multi-purpose disposable gloves is at an all-time high. These latex-free disposables are available in industrial general purpose — ideal for foodservice and food processing (complies with CFR Title 21 Indirect Food Additive Regulations Part 177 for use in contact with food) and are durable enough for jan/san, safety, and other industrial applications. Exam-grade VyBlend meets ASTM D5250 and is ideally suited for dental, healthcare, long-term and nursing care, and veterinary. The gloves are made from a blend of advanced synthetic elastomer and PVC, and each is ambidextrous with a beaded cuff, smooth external finish, PU coating on the interior surface, and powder-free. Thickness is 3.5 mil at the palm and 4.5 mil at the fingers for industrial grade and 2.75 mil at the palm and 3.0 mil at the fingers for exam grade. VyBlend general purpose gloves are available in black, blue, and blue-violet while the exam-grade VyBlend is available in blue only.
Save space and reduce strain with the 4-Way Fork Box Pallet Dispenser
The 4-Way Fork Box Pallet Dispenser offers a new line of pallet dispensers to improve safety while reclaiming space and resources Huron Technology Corp. knows that the repetitive movements and lifting associated with manual pallet handling create higher risks for strain and injury. In 2018, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) accounted for over 30% of worker injury and illness cases involving days away from work (DAFW). The CDC states that workplace musculoskeletal disorders cost between $45 and $54 billion annually in workers’ compensation, lost wages, and lost productivity. There are many tools and resources available to assist with identifying ways to increase worker safety. One way to improve safety is the use of dispensing or stacking aids. These types of equipment reduce the need for lifting, turning, twisting, and bending, improving ergonomics for your workers and reducing the risks for injury or strain. You’ve probably heard of automated pallet dispensers and stackers, but Huron Technology Corp. has gone a step further with their new 4-Way Fork Box Pallet Dispenser. This dispenser offers a small, robust footprint with a modular pallet dispenser or stacker, that requires less supply air in a form that can be modified to meet nearly any demand. Standard dispensers rely on heavy-duty pneumatic cylinders to lift stacks of pallets. This demands a great deal of air supply and limits the flexibility of the dispenser because lifting positions are fixed with air cylinders. The standard Fork Box Pallet Dispenser (FBDA) uses pneumatically actuated forks to hold the pallet or stack while a hydraulic scissor lift does the heavy lifting. This not only lowers air supply demands when compared to typical pallet dispenser models, but the scissor lift also allows virtually unlimited positioning for any size pallet. No air supply? No problem. The fork actuation and scissor lift can be made to use electric, hydraulic, or pneumatic actuation depending on the needs or limitations of the site. The FBDA is also space-saving and offers a standard 15 pallet capacity magazine, but an extension is available to increase capacity to 20 pallets. By storing pallets in the dispenser, you recover an average of 13.33 square feet of floor space per short stack that would otherwise be sitting on the plant floor. The FBD4 also takes on a bit of a modular approach, allowing for the replacement of individual components if they should get damaged or fail over time, instead of replacing the entire unit. Even with this ease of assembly and maintenance, the FBD4 remains a robust piece of equipment. Solid steel sidewalls on the magazine prevent any broken or non-conforming pallets from causing snags or misalignment during operation. The integrated two-strand chain conveyor allows for simple maintenance and longevity, without having to design around the complex lifting mechanisms or unique shapes of dispensers without a conveyance system. Having this integrated conveyor, positioned at your desired height, allows you to drop it next to any standard palletizing conveyor. Huron Technology Corp. also offers two standard options for controls: a basic controls package that includes all necessary sensors for operation with no PLC or programming included, and a full controls package with PLC and programming to a standard operating procedure ready to be used immediately upon installation. These options allow for integrators to choose to program the dispenser or directly drop in the system as is. Each FBD4 is fully configurable at the time of quote to include any customer purchased component specifications, paint colors, and conveyor heights. How could the 4-Way Fork Box Pallet Dispenser help increase worker safety and save space and costs in your operation?
Juno Jones women’s safety boot maker receives U.S. Trademark
Philly-based startup Juno Jones secures the U.S. Trademark on its iconic “J” logo. Juno Jones recently launched a line of steel toe boots for women in hazardous jobs including construction, architecture, and engineering. These stylish safety boots are ASTM certified for impact, compression, and puncture. The Juno Jones Kickstarter funded in just 29 hours. “Finally, women have boots they can wear from the office to the job site,” said Juno Jones Founder and CEO Emily Soloby. Soloby is a former women’s rights attorney and co-owns AAA School of Trucking, a heavy equipment safety training company based in Philadelphia. When she couldn’t find the footwear she needed to protect her feet and fit her style, she began speaking to many women in hazardous industries and learned of the huge market gap. In addition to her business experience, Soloby has taken shoemaking courses in Mexico and Brooklyn, NY. She began building the Juno Jones team in 2018, and after two years of market research and product development, the ASTM Certified, OSHA-approved Meti Boot launches for 2021. Soloby is the host of the weekly Hazard Girls Podcast, where she interviews women in nontraditional fields about their work. The Podcast is produced in partnership with Jacket Media Co. and C-Suite Radio and can be found on all podcast platforms
TVH employees walk over 54k miles in global walking challenge
TVH in the Americas (TVH), a global provider of quality replacement parts and accessories for the material handling and industrial equipment industries, just concluded its first Global Walking Challenge. Starting April 19, 2021, and running through May 16, 2021, TVH employees were encouraged to be active. Whether they were walking, running, or doing a workout, all steps were captured on their personal activity trackers. The end results of the challenge were very impressive. Over 450 employees from 20 locations around the world took 117,301,201 steps during the challenge, going 54,665 miles. TVH has built a great reputation as an employer that cares about its employees. The Global Walking Challenge was just one of the initiatives from their Nudge program. This program encourages employees to make healthy choices while working on their mental and physical well-being. Lucy DelSarto, Health and Wellness Coach for TVH and director of the Nudge program for TVH in the Americas, was very excited about the response the challenge received worldwide. “When I first started with TVH, the Nudge program was five years old and doing 12-week walking challenges. I found that many people didn’t participate because of the length of time. So, for the past five years, I have restructured the challenge to be four weeks long, four times a year, and the response has been phenomenal,” she said. “With the growth, the initiative saw in the Americas, we decided to take the Nudge program and its walking challenge global. Over the last year, we have been coordinating with our headquarters in Belgium to establish different initiatives that would make sense for their location. It was thrilling to see so many employees participate in our first-ever Global Walking Challenge.” Individual and Company Goals The goal of TVH’s Global Walking Challenge was two-fold. The first was for each employee to achieve an average of 10,000 steps each day. The second was for the employees, as a group, to virtually walk from one TVH location to another, circling around the world. In total, the employees took 117,301,201 steps during the four-week challenge and walked no less than 54,665 miles. This distance is the equivalent to 962,104 football fields, over 2,084 marathon lengths, or a little over two times the world’s circumference. “As a company, we feel it is important to help our employees feel connected. With this global initiative, we managed to find a common goal that also benefited our health and was fun to do,” says Simon Witdouck, Senior Vice President of TVH Americas. Boost to the Company Morale Steps were tracked per country and individually. The Mexico team achieved the most steps per person per day with an average of 16,636 steps. While the most passionate hiker in the world, Dhanraj Wanve, on our India team, achieved a whopping 1,255,055 steps in total. However, the physical goals were not the only thing that incentivized employees to participate in the challenge. “The Global Walking Challenge was a great way for our employees to stay connected while being separated for safety reasons. Being apart for so long has been challenging on everyone, and our initiatives are a great way for them to reconnect,” said Coach Lucy. “The employees were able to challenge each other through the apps they used. Some even got creative and started using their exercise equipment while listening to podcasts or watching shows.” In addition, Coach Lucy worked to help everyone find a way to move that would work for them. Her motto is Daily Choices Matter, and by making the choice to move, everyone will live healthier and stronger lives.
Brass Knuckle® SmartShell™ is the safety glove that does it all
Impact resistance, ANSI A5 cut protection, ANSI/ISEA 107-2010 high visibility—all without sacrificing comfort Some jobs need a glove that covers it all: impact protection, cut protection, excellent grip in wet conditions, and high visibility. And it must do all of this without sacrificing comfort, because an uncomfortable glove is an unworn glove, and that is the ruin of compliance and safety programs. Brass Knuckle® SmartShell™ is the next-generation, cross-functional glove that does it all. It’s loaded with features that are engineered to provide protection on multiple fronts, all while excellent flexibility and top-rated ergonomic design make it one of the most wearable gloves in its class. The winning formula for SmartShell BKCR4499 gloves starts with a machine knit, ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) with ANSI cut level A5 protection on the palms. Its strength-to-weight ratio is 8 to 15 times higher than steel. Next, thermoplastic rubber (TPR) padding is sonically welded to the back of the glove for protection from contusions, smash injuries, object strikes, pinch-point injuries to the tips of each finger, and other impact hazards. The gritty black nitrile palm coating offers excellent wet grip and the bright lime green shell color meets the requirements of American National Standard (ANSI/ISEA 107-2010) for high-visibility safety apparel. SmartShell naturally shapes to the contours of the hand and flex points, helping to ensure maximum comfort and increased compliance. For extra durability, SmartShell is double-stitched in high-wear areas including fingertips, index finger, and palm. “When designing SmartShell, our goal was to create the ultimate combination of safety and comfort in a protective glove,” said Jeff Cullman, vice president of sales for Brass Knuckle Protection. “We partnered with our valued distributors to collect a list of ‘must haves’ and set out to engineer a glove that brings together the right measures of impact protection, cut protection, and ergonomics. It really is a next-generation type of glove. Once people try it, they’re immediately impressed by how well all of its features perform in real-world environments.” SmartShell was engineered to excel in a variety of industries where impact protection, cut protection, and a perfect fit are all priorities. It is ideal for assembly, agriculture, construction, forestry and logging, heavy equipment, machine operation, manufacturing, oil and gas, and other petrol-based refining, mining, rigging, and other heavy-duty work environments.