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DJs Then And DJs Now

What Is a Dj and How to Become One

What Are DJs?

A DJ, or disc jockey, plays music and provides entertainment for people, either on the radio or at an event. As a radio DJ, your responsibilities and duties include monitoring the playback during your show and speaking live on-the-air between songs. On-air DJs conduct interviews, promote events, and hold contests. An event or nightclub DJ usually serves as the announcer or master of ceremonies (emcee) while playing a lineup of music. Talents may also include managing digital audio and visual production equipment and turntables to create music remixes. Regardless of the type of DJ you are, you must have an outgoing personality, a love and knowledge of a wide range of music, and a proficiency in digital sound equipment and software.

Where Do DJs Work?

DJs, or disc jockeys, work in a wide variety of settings. Radio DJs broadcast radio programs and play music from a studio. Event DJs work at special events, like weddings, parties, and corporate galas. Nightclub DJs control the dance music and entertainment for guests at bars, nightclubs, resorts, and on cruise ships. Karaoke DJs run specialized, sing-along equipment at karaoke clubs and encourage people to get up on stage and sing. The location may vary, but all DJs create an entertaining musical experience for their audiences.

What skills do you need to be a DJ?

You need to have a feeling for music. The best is to have some music education, like playing a piano, to understand what you are mixing and what you are working with. A feeling for rhythm is very important for mixing as well, and you should be good in understanding new technologies for DJs. It’s important to always be up to date and to understand new technical features fast.

The big skill set for DJing is [finding] what’s your unique voice and what kind of audience do you want to have in front of you? What do you want to say to what people? That will kind of dictate where you go in that field. Maybe you don’t scratch. I mean hell, all of the biggest DJs don’t scratch.

You need to make sure your skills are water-tight and as strong as they can be to be able to bring fans the best possible experience, both through tracks being produced, and mixing and bringing positive vibes to shows. You’re one person, typically, and the only person on stage when DJing to fans so all eyes are on you to execute a set as best as you possibly can.

How to Be a Good DJ

To be a good DJ or disc jockey, become proficient with your digital equipment and maintain it well. Keep informed about the latest albums and artists to broaden your musical repertoire. Develop a memorable and entertaining emcee personality. Learn to read your audience; give them the music they want to hear and that will inspire them to dance and liven up the event. Remember that the music should meet the needs of the guests, not your tastes.

Requirements to Become a Radio DJ

Driving down the road with the tunes cranked up, the voice over the airwaves becomes as familiar as an old friend. A radio station disc jockey, commonly referred to as a DJ, provides laughs, insight, news and weather, as well as hit songs and classic oldies. Some DJs even produce commercials for advertisers and conduct on-air interviews. This is a tough field to enter, but with the right training and persistence, you can become a disc jockey.

Immersing Yourself

Take advantage of courses in public speaking and English to develop communication skills necessary for an on-air personality. Focus on improving your grammar and enunciating in a clear, distinct voice. Delve into the backgrounds of musicians and vocalists, as well as the history of the music industry. If your high school has a radio station or there is a station in your hometown, apply for a position, even if it is not as a DJ. Learning every step to produce a radio show will provide much-needed training and enhance your resume. You’ll also want to have good knowledge of sound production and equipment in order to effectively mix and play music.

College Level Studies

A bachelor’s degree in broadcast journalism will provide a strong foundation for a career as a radio DJ and graduate level degrees are also an option. Many colleges have radio stations on campus, creating an opportunity to gain some hands-on experience. Enroll in broadcasting classes that focus on improving vocal abilities and diction. Knowledge of broadcasting equipment, Federal Communications Commission guidelines and software editing programs are also part of the necessary training to become a radio personality. However, a good voice and personality, along with some quick-wittedness, will often be sufficient requirements to become a DJ.

Appearance and Skills

Even though DJs are in a studio behind a microphone for much of their day, appearance is important. Many radio personalities are asked to make public appearances, such as on-location commercial promotions for advertisers. A DJ should maintain a neat appearance when in the public eye. Interpersonal skills are extremely important as a radio DJ often answers calls from listeners and conducts interviews. The ability to make others feel comfortable and open up on air is a trait successful DJs share.

Enter The Market

Many radio DJs launch their careers at stations in smaller markets; some even facilitate their own radio show to start. This can be cumbersome though, because it requires you to have your own equipment and music library, according to Wikihow. Perfect your skills and develop your radio persona while working at a radio DJ job at a small station. Utilize social media to market yourself and build a fan base. Take opportunities to appear at community events on behalf of the station to increase name recognition in the radio industry, opening the door to jobs in larger markets.

What Does a Radio DJ Do?

Once upon a time, radio DJs were influential tastemakers in the music industry who chose all of the music for their own shows and could break an act into the mainstream with a few spins of the turntable. Today, however, most commercial radio stations use music playlists, which are selected by the music director or program director and tend to be heavily based on market research rather than personal taste.

As a result, the role of the commercial DJ has shifted away from music curation and toward hosting themed segments of storytelling, music discussion, current events, journalism, and more. The exception is college and independent radio DJs, who are likely to curate all of the music in their segments.

In broadcast radio, a typical workday often begins a couple of hours before going on the air with show preparation at the station: checking the charts, news, and social media to see what’s trending; recording commercials and on-air promotions; and scheduling music and talking points. Shift lengths vary, but DJs are often on air for three to five hours, during which time songs are interspersed with weather reports, listener requests, contests, on-air promotions for concerts and events, and radio banter. More production work often takes place after the shift ends. Satellite and internet radio DJs, without a local audience to engage, focus almost exclusively on music and talk.

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Loading Services Instructions

Loading Instructions

Loading instructions are very useful for certain recurring transports. The loading instructions describe concrete measures of how to optimally secure cargo at certain transports

For all members of staff, the loading instructions are a compulsory in-plant directive, which they have to observe. In addition to the corresponding training, it is recommended to issue loading instructions and other advice to explain the in-plant procedures relevant to safety of loads to the relevant people, for example in the form of a driver’s handbook. This is a useful instrument for the company/management to prove that they fulfilled their responsibilities concerning occupational safety and traffic legislation.

Before cargo can be secured on a vehicle and before the safety of loads can be proven in test, the suitability of the cargo for transport must be assessed. Our experts support you in this task. Our tilting table can be used to assess and document the tip- and form stability of cargo. With the results of these tests, you will receive certificates which – in connection with static and/or dynamic test according to EN 12642 – enables us to develop easy to understand loading instructions.

We offer consulting services to hauliers and vehicle fleet managers regarding questions of safety of loads and we can issue loading instructions to loaders.

Loading

Loading requirements

A load on a heavy vehicle must:

not be placed in a way that makes the vehicle unstable or unsafe

be secured so it is unlikely to fall or be dislodged

be restrained using an appropriate restraint method

be placed, secured or restrained in a way that meets the loading performance standards listed in Schedule 7 of the Heavy Vehicle (Mass, Dimension and Loading) National Regulation.

Load Restraint Guide

The Load Restraint Guide 2018 provides drivers, owners, operators, freight consigners, vehicle manufacturers, equipment manufacturers and suppliers with the basic safety principles that should be followed when designing a load restraint system to ensure the safe and efficient transportation of loads.

Changes to regulations

The Heavy Vehicle (Mass, Dimension and Loading) National Regulation (MDL regulation) prescribes heavy vehicle dimensions, mass and loading requirements. The MDL regulation was amended on 1 October 2018 to incorporate, among other things, the load restraint performance standards.

The MDL regulations also provide alternative compliance requirements for vehicles where a mass or dimension exemption applies, for example very large loads.

These alternative compliance requirements apply if:

a mass or dimension exemption is in force for the vehicle for the journey; and

the vehicle complies with the mass or dimension exemption; and

an engineer has given a certificate.

FAQs

What has changed in the Load Restraint Guide 2018?

The guidance material contained in the Load Restraint Guide 2018 has been updated to ensure it:

is easy to access and understand

meets the needs of the target audience

is accurate, up to date and reflects current load restraint practices and heavy vehicle technology

provides information based on the key steps involved in transporting loads to assist heavy vehicle drivers, operators and other parties to develop load restraint systems to suit their individual requirements

includes computer-generated diagrams and graphics to provide greater detail.

provides detailed worked examples demonstrating how to apply the load restraint principles provided in the Guide to the common freight commodities.

GUIDE TO THE PARTIAL TRUCKLOAD SERVICES

This guide will help you understand how the partial truckload service works

We address the following topics:

What is partial truckload freight shipping?

Load size and weight specifications for partial load transport.

Advantages of partial load freight shipping

On what shipping lanes is the partial truckload service

The successful transloading of goods being transported in Partial truckload service

Types of transport equipment available for Partial truckload freight services

What information should I provide when requesting a quote for a Partial truckload freight service? How do I know if my cargo can be shipped using Partial truckload transportation mode?

WHAT IS PARTIAL TRUCKLOAD FREIGHT SHIPPING?

Partial truckload transportation is the ideal and most economical transportation option for larger loads that do not require to use all the space available on a full trailer. It is more affordable than the Full Truckload freight service because the customer doesn’t pay for a dedicated trailer. In a partial truckload mode, customers have the opportunity to ship  larger loads than allowed in a Less Than Truckload transport service.

WEIGHT AND SIZE SPECIFICATIONS FOR PARTIAL TRUCKLOAD FREIGHT

The partial truckload transport mode is available for loads that have the following characteristics:

THE NUMBER OF PALLETS AND DIMENSIONS FOR PARTIAL TRUCKLOADS:

Greater than 12 linear feet (6 standard size pallets).

Less than 30 linear feet.

MAXIMUM AND MINIMUM WEIGHT FOR PARTIAL TRUCKLOADS:

Maximum total weight is 25,000 pounds.

Minimum total weight 1000lbs

THE ADVANTAGE OF PARTIAL TRUCKLOAD FREIGHT SERVICES: SUBSTANTIAL SAVINGS

If the load occupies between 12-30 linear feet, choosing the partial truckload mode of freight transport, either in the complete route or in part of the international transport route, can save you up to 50% of the transport cost; compared to moving merchandise in FTL mode throughout the whole transportation route.

LOADING HELP FOR YOUR TRUCK OR CONTAINER

Loading your rental truck, freight trailer, or moving container is one of the most difficult tasks when moving. It’s important to available to correctly load your furniture and fragile items, both to prevent damage during the move as well as to maximize your available space. Not having enough available space will create numerous additional hassles and should be avoided, especially if you had sufficient space but couldn’t make all of the items fit due to improper loading.

WHY HIRE LOADING HELP?

MOVERS ARE FASTER

We’re not saying you’re out of shape, but you’re probably not in mover shape. Loading a moving truck or container is hard work, and it takes a lot of unique physical conditioning to be in mover shape. Simply put, movers will load your moving truck faster than you and your friends will.

MAXIMIZE TRUCK SPACE

Pro movers are trained to maximize the available space on your moving truck, trailer or container. Wasted space is wasted money. Just like a game of Tetris, the best movers will utilize every inch of space. And, whenever possible, use less space than estimated, which may save you money!

HIRE MOVERS ANYWHERE

Our moving marketplace offers more than 700 movers nationwide to help load your truck. From big cities to rural areas, we have local movers ready to help you move.

WE DO THE HEAVY LIFTING

Let the movers do the heavy lifting so you don’t have to! Moving furniture isn’t fun, especially during the summer. Instead, sip some iced tea while the movers take care of the heavy stuff.

Moving Help: Your Complete Guide

When moving, everyone needs a little moving help. Relocating comes with lots of decisions, including how to get your belongings from point A to point B. With various types of moving help available, it can be difficult to figure out what option is best for your move. That’s why we’ve broken down the top four choices for you.

Moving Help: Renting a Moving Truck

If you want to take on a DIY move, renting a moving truck is a great option for a moving service. Once you sort out the logistics of your move, reserving a moving truck is a fairly seamless process.

Choosing the right rental truck

You’ll want to reserve a moving truck that fits with the exact needs of your move. For starters, are you moving locally or long distance? Certain moving truck companies will only rent out trucks for local moves, while other companies offer national truck rentals. While some companies start charging when you exceed a set mileage, others offer free, unlimited miles.

Loading your moving truck

Loading your truck may seem intuitive, but there is a recommended method for packing a moving truck. When loading heavy items, you should pack them in an “I-formation” to ensure a safer and faster move. Starting in the front of the box truck by the cab, load your heavy items, like your washing machine and refrigerator. If you are transporting these items yourself, you may want some moving help from a moving labor service (unless you happen to have a team of very strong people on hand).

Next, pack your heaviest pieces of furniture in the middle of the truck. Slightly lighter items, such as couches or mattresses, can go to either side of the heavy furniture. Any other big boxes can then be placed in the back of the truck to complete the “I formation.” If you need help finding boxes for your move, there are several places you can find free moving boxes.

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LED Electrical Lighting And Improving Onboard Energy Efficiency

LED lighting

LEDs or light-emitting diodes are semiconductor devices that produce visible light when an electrical current passes through them. LEDs are one of today’s most energy efficient and rapidly developing lighting technologies. LED lighting differs from incandescent and compact fluorescent lighting in several ways. LED light bulbs can last longer and are more durable and offer comparable or better light quality than other types of lighting. LEDs are small and provide unique lighting opportunities.

Keep these tips in mind if you’re considering retrofitting or replacing traditional lighting with LEDs.

Retrofitting existing recessed light fixtures with energy efficient LED retrofit kits should be done only where it can be confirmed in the manufacturer’s instructions that the LED retrofit kit is compatible with the existing recessed fixture assembly.

Replacing existing incandescent lamps with LED type lamps in lighting fixtures is a great way to save energy.  However if the existing lighting fixture is controlled by a dimmer be sure to purchase “dimmable” LED lamps.

When purchasing new LED lamps or retrofit kits look for the mark of a qualified electrical testing laboratory and read the instructions prior to installation.

A Light Bulb Guide and Bulb FAQ Cheat Sheet

Light Bulb Types

What are the different types of light bulbs?

The most common types of light bulbs are incandescent bulbs, halogen bulbs, CFL bulbs, and LED bulbs. For each of these types, the bulb light is produced by a different process. Light bulbs can also be distinguished by shape and base design. These differences do matter, as certain types of bulbs are recommended for certain types of fixtures.

What are the different light bulbs based on how they work?

Incandescent – passes an electric current through a metal filament to produce heat

Halogen – recycles halogen gas and tungsten within a quartz envelope

CFL (compact fluorescent light) – passes an electric current through a gaseous tube

LED (light emitting diode) – passes an electric current through a semi-conducting material, currently the most energy efficient type of bulb

What are the different light bulb shapes?

The most common light bulb shapes are:

Standard Household – denoted with an A

Candle – denoted with a C

Reflector – denoted with an R

Mini Reflector – denoted with MR

Parabolic Aluminized Reflector – denoted with PAR

Globe – denoted with G

Tubular – denoted with a T

The light bulb shape code will be listed on the packaging. The shape code consists of a letter that indicated the physical shape, followed by a number that indicates the size (measured in eighths of a diameter). For example, an “A19 bulb” means that that the bulb comes in a standard household shape and is 19/8 inches in size. A19 bulbs are the most common light bulb shape, so this is what you’ll see the most

What are the different light bulb bases?

The most common light bulb base types are:

Standard-medium – a regular sized screw-in base, usually denoted with an E26 or E27

Candelabra – a smaller screw-in base, denoted most often with an E12

Bi-pin – a pin-in base with two points of contact, often denoted by a G4 or GU24

GU10 – a twist-and-lock base

The letter indicates the shape of the base, while the number indicates the size. Always check your lighting fixture before purchasing bulbs. After all, you couldn’t screw in an E26 bulb into a candelabra socket size – it just isn’t possible! These are the basics on light bulb bases. Sizes and shapes do matter – so be mindful before purchasing a new bulb. If you need more about light bulb bases explained, be sure to ask a store associate before purchasing a bulb.

A Guide to Lighting

Installation of new lighting can be daunting because there are so many words flying about, so it’s hard to know what’s what. There are also many options to consider when installing lighting, so I’m going to explain to you the different types of lighting and help you come to a decision that is best for you.

General Household Lightbulbs

There are two types of lightbulbs that are widely available; LED and incandescent. By looking at the price tags of LED and incandescent bulbs, it may look like incandescent bulbs are cheaper, however, when considering the lifetime of the bulbs, incandescent bulbs actually turn out 6 times more expensive than LED bulbs.

Signs like these can really elevate your living room, but which to choose?  LED’s are more energy-efficient, but neon signs are considered better looking because of the soft glow it gives off. All in all, it comes down to personal preference. These signs can be bought and plugged into the wall, but it can look messy, and it is a good idea to have an electrician help you install one of these signs.

Feature Lighting

Feature lighting is when you use light to make parts of your home look nicer. It is done by strategically installing lights and light strips into particular areas to highlight parts of your home, or create an atmosphere. It can be done on your own, but it would be best to have a professional with experience to install it.

Swimming Pool Lighting

If you’re looking to replace in your swimming pool, the two options are incandescent bulbs and LED bulbs. As discussed above, you should choose LED bulbs. Unless you are 100% sure on how to change the lights, you should call your local electrician because it can be dangerous.

Security Lighting

The purpose of this type of lighting is to deter unwanted guests from your house. These lights turn on when there is motion in a set area, such as the driveway, or the front door.

The rule of thumb with installing security lighting is that the area illuminated should be visible by other people, so if someone was to do something suspicious, neighbours would be able to see. This can be an excellent deterrent for unwanted people.

Guide to LED Strip Lights

love LED strip lights, as they’re so versatile with unlimited designs and applications. You are able to let your imagination go free and create your dream space. In this blog, we will go through how to choose the best LED strip lights for your application, as they’re are many options to chose from.

One of the best things about shopping for strip lighting online with The Lighting Outlet, is that we can do all the hard work for you. Simply supply us with some information on the application, if available, a line drawing of the measurements, and we will select all the components you require to do the job correctly. For strip lighting, there is no job that is too small or too large.

Voltage 

Most are 12v or 24v. Choosing 12v is usually a better option as you have more options to choose for the strip itself and components. 24v should be used when you are running longer lengths of 10 meters +.

Different Wattage of LED Strip and Their Uses

Choosing the correct wattage is crucial to get the right brightness for the application. Most strip lighting applications are used to create an ambient, subtle touch. To achieve this you will need to use a low wattage. We would recommend nothing over 5 watts.

If the application needs to be more of a practical light such applications like, under a kitchen cabinet, behind a vanity mirror or bed head, then you should look to use a strip light around 10 watts.

The Complete Guide To Lighting

Lighting ballasts are a key feature of many fluorescent, HID and some LED lamps that allow current to be regulated to suit the lamp type. Without ballasts to control current flow at varying voltages, we’d never see these familiar fluorescents or HID luminaires jump into life – or stay lit for long before burning themselves out.

If you’ve ever walked by a standing light fixture or ceiling batten and heard a low humming or buzzing sound, it’s likely that what you were listening to was the ballast doing its job! But what exactly is a light ballast, and what is it doing while you use the light?

type of electrical resistor or reactance, fixed in-line with the circuits that supply mains power to a light bulb. The core role of a lighting ballast is to help control and regulate the supplied current during different operating phases (and voltages) for certain bulb types.

Both during their switch-on (peak power draw) phase and in prolonged use (lower, more tightly regulated current), some types of luminaire require an additional component to control the flow of power properly – in short, this additional component is the lighting

How do light work?

For a simplified overview of how a light ballast works as part of a series of in-fixture lighting connectors, think of it as being a two-job component. It gives a boost when we want to arc the light and power it on, then pulls back this initial high current flow to a more sedate level once lit. In a sense, it performs similarly to how a car’s engine works during ignition and subsequent idling.

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Categories Of Family Law Attorney

How To Become A Family Lawyer

What Is Family Law?

Family law deals with legal issues regarding families. A family law practice can represent clients for a variety of issues, including adoption, divorce, and child custody. They’re also able to draft prenuptial and postnuptial agreements and can litigate on legal issues related to those two things.

Family law can cover both victims and perpetrators of domestic-related issues, such as domestic violence. They can also play a pivotal role in legal cases about juvenile delinquency, child abuse and neglect, and adoption and guardianship.

What Does A Family Lawyer Do?

Family lawyers cover a wide range of family-related legal issues. Here are some of the major legal issues a family lawyer can cover, and what they can do to support you in those situations.

Divorce Cases

Family lawyers often become involved in divorce cases because it’s a tricky scenario to navigate without legal advice. That’s because the rules for a divorce can differ depending on the state where it’s filed. States also have their own guidelines for how assets and debts are divided during divorce proceedings.

A family lawyer can help you navigate this emotional area of law, and make sure things are divided fairly. They can also help make the process as painless as possible, which would be a benefit to your former partner as well as any kids you may have.

A family lawyer can also handle the following legal issues surrounding divorce:

  • Alimony and spousal support
  • Pre and post-nuptial agreement

Because divorce is civil litigation, there may be a period of civil discovery, which can be hard to handle without the help of a lawyer. They can help you with depositions, subpoenas, and interrogatories, and make sure you’re ready if or when your case goes to court.

Child Custody Proceedings

Another major area of family law is child custody. Child custody is a controversial and often highly contested legal issue. And while the court usually follows the agreement parents make, parents don’t always agree on what’s in the best interest of the child.

A family lawyer can help you prove what’s in your child’s best interest through testimony and evidence collection. They know what techniques to use to build a compelling case, whether that’s presenting school records, medical records, or even the testimony of a child psychologist.

Child Support Issues

Family lawyers also work to make sure child support is fair and just in divorce proceedings. They can help you catch if your former partner is trying to hide their income, or if they’re trying to collect greater child support by being voluntarily unemployed. They’re also able to thoroughly review the court’s calculation of child support to make sure there isn’t an inaccurate child support award.

Abuse And Neglect Cases

One of the touchiest subjects a family lawyer can assist with is issues of abuse and neglect. A family lawyer helps defend clients against allegations of abuse or helps them regain custody of their children. They can aggressively advocate on your behalf should an unfair or unjust charge of abuse and neglect occur, and make sure you have your best chance of winning your child back.

Reasons To Hire A Family Lawyer

Now that you know what a family lawyer is, you’re probably wondering how hiring legal representation in your family law case would benefit you. Here are the major benefits that come with hiring a family lawyer.

They Can Save You Money

At first thought, you may think hiring a lawyer would be more expensive than handling your own case. But a family lawyer can help you save a ton of money! They can make sure you don’t end up paying too much in alimony or child support, or that you’re receiving the support you deserve.

Their expert guidance can help you avoid going back to court because of unfair negotiations. A lawyer may cost money, but their support will help you avoid the common costly mistakes that can arise with family law.

They Keep Things Organized

When it comes to family law cases, documentation is everything. You need to know the ins-and-outs of what documents you need, and when they need to be filed. This is crucial because if you file them late or incorrectly the judge may exclude them from your case.

An expert family lawyer will make sure that your documentation is correct and filed promptly. You can rest easy knowing that they have your back and that things will run as smoothly as possible.

They Know How Family Law Works

There are a lot of nuances when it comes to family law, and many laws and policies can differ wildly by state. A family lawyer knows these laws, and the arguments needed to help you win your case. They can anticipate potential issues, avoid common legal problems, and help you navigate any unexpected hurdles that come up.

They Can Help You Deal With Emotional Element Of Family Law

As mentioned above, family law cases are tense and emotional. The last thing you want is to end up in an ugly, never-ending legal battle. A family lawyer can help you through the emotional parts of the case, and keep you focused on the task at hand. They can also handle all communication, so you can avoid any fighting or verbal abuse that may arise.

With any family-related issue, it can be hard to handle the number of opinions and perspectives you run into. Odds are you’ll be having a lot of friends and family sharing their opinions on what you should ask for, and how you should approach your case. A family lawyer provides an objective view of your case and can advise you how to proceed in the most rational way possible.

Knowledge about the Family and its Technicalities

It is the tangible advantage of the family lawyer that he/she is an expert and knows the intricacies of the family law. You will become familiar with the basics of family law with time. People do not know the potential loopholes that prove very beneficial if someone discerns how to exploit them. Family lawyer set you in the right direction.

Impartiality

Impartiality is the key characteristic of the family lawyer. It becomes very difficult for a person to represent his/her divorce case in court. On the contrary, the lawyer does not involve in the case emotionally rather proceeds it wisely. He/she understands the previous facts and represents accordingly. Individual needs support for the time being after the loss of a relationship. The family lawyer understands the gravity of the situation, so he/she lends, helping hand to the grieved person.

What Kind Of Personality Suits A Career In Family Law?

It is crucial that you have the right temperament for family law due to the nature of dealing with children and adults in distressing situations. The following soft skills make the difference between an adequate candidate and an ideal candidate:

  • People skills and communication skills — you are dealing with clients who are facing very difficult times, so you need to be a good listener to hear what is and isn’t spoken.
  • Social skills —  along with a sharp legal mind you also need social skills like tact, empathy and compassion and an appreciation for the many different sides of human nature.
  • Professionalism and objectivity — the ability to detach yourself on a personal level (from children and adults in distressing situations, such as abuse cases) while still acknowledging the difficulties the client is facing.
  • Hard work ethic and positive attitude
  • Patience and ability to stay calm — with clients, opposing counsel, court personnel, the system and emotional outbursts.
  • Resilience and confidence

Why Do People Specialise In Family Law?

Most people specialise in family law because they are deeply interested in the human aspect of law and how the law can help people at some of the most vulnerable periods of their lives, including family issues and relationship breakdown.

A good family lawyer can demonstrate empathy and inspire confidence that they will guide clients through this very difficult period, always remaining focused, but also ensuring they give the best possible legal and strategic advice.

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How Mold Remediation Can Protect Your Property And Your Health

Mold Remediation in Schools and Commercial Buildings Guide

Concern about indoor exposure to mold has been increasing as the public becomes aware that exposure to mold can cause a variety of health effects and symptoms, including allergic reactions. This document presents guidelines for the remediation/cleanup of mold and moisture problems in schools and commercial buildings; these guidelines include measures designed to protect the health of building occupants and remediators

It has been designed primarily for:

Building managers

Custodians

Others who are responsible for commercial building and school maintenance

It should serve as a reference for potential mold and moisture remediators. Using this document, individuals with little or no experience with mold remediation should be able to make a reasonable judgment as to whether the situation can be handled in-house. It will help those in charge of maintenance to evaluate an in-house remediation plan or a remediation plan submitted by an outside contractor

Contractors and other professionals who respond to mold and moisture situations in commercial buildings and schools may also want to refer to these guidelines.

Molds can be found almost anywhere; they can grow on virtually any organic substance, as long as moisture and oxygen are present. There are molds that can grow on wood, paper, carpet, foods, and insulation. When excessive moisture accumulates in buildings or on building materials, mold growth will often occur, particularly if the moisture problem remains undiscovered or unaddressed. It is impossible to eliminate all mold and mold spores in the indoor environment. However, mold growth can be controlled indoors by controlling moisture indoors.

Molds reproduce by making spores that usually cannot be seen without magnification. Mold spores waft through the indoor and outdoor air continually. When mold spores land on a damp spot indoors, they may begin growing and digesting whatever they are growing on in order to survive. Molds gradually destroy the things they grow on.

GUIDELINES FOR MOLD REMEDIATION

Use professional judgment to determine prudent levels of Personal Protective Equipment and containment for each situation, particularly as the remediation site size increases and the potential for exposure and health effects rises. Assess the need for increased Personal Protective Equipment, if, during the remediation, more extensive contamination is encountered than was expected.

These guidelines are for damage caused by clean water. If you know or suspect that the water source is contaminated with sewage, or chemical or biological pollutants, then the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires PPE and containment. An experienced remediation professional should be consulted immediately.

Select method most appropriate to your situation. Since molds gradually decompose the organic materials they feed on, if mold growth is not addressed promptly, some items may be damaged such that cleaning will not restore their original appearance. If mold growth is heavy and items are valuable or important, you may wish to consult with us or another restoration/water damage/remediation expert. Please note that these are guidelines; other cleaning methods may be preferred by some professionals.

Cleanup Methods

Method 1: Wet vacuum (in the case of porous materials, some mold spores/fragments will remain in the material but will not grow if the material is completely dried). Steam cleaning may be an alternative for carpets and some upholstered furniture.

Method 2: Damp-wipe surfaces with plain water or with water and detergent solution (except wood—use wood floor cleaner); scrub as needed.

Method 3: High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) vacuum after the material has been thoroughly dried. Dispose of the contents of the HEPA vacuum in well-sealed plastic bags.

Method 4: Discard – remove water-damaged materials and seal in plastic bags while inside of containment, if present. Dispose of as normal waste. HEPA vacuum area after it is dried.

PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (PPE)

Minimum: Gloves, N-95 respirator, goggles/eye protection

Limited: Gloves, P-100 respirator or half-face respirator with HEPA filter, disposable overalls, goggles/eye protection

Full: Gloves, disposable full body clothing, head gear, foot coverings, full-face powered respirator with HEPA filter

Mold Remediation Guidelines

Learn the Guidelines of Correctly Performing Mold Removal

Mold is a fungus that is found naturally in our environment. While it is found everywhere, it becomes a problem when its spores reproduce inside your home or building. Once it is determined that you have a problem, your next step is to get it removed as quickly as possible.

Any Contractor can offer mold remediation, the challenge is finding one who can perform the removal services without the mold coming back or spreading throughout the home or commercial property. The following are the various guidelines that all mold removal contractors should be following

As with all guidelines, you must remember that these are not rules or laws but suggestions that have had success and are used as bench marks for successful mold removal.

version of Mold Damage Restoration Guidelines, were actually the first (one of the first) produced for the public nationwide for mold removal. These guidelines, once the norm for mold damage cleanup, are almost never used because the EPA and the IICRC guidelines are more popular.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has developed their own set of rules to assist homeowners and property owners on removal. The EPA established their guidelines based upon the size and amount of visible mold you have.

Guidelines for Mold Clean Up

The following guidelines apply to small mold clean up projects not exceeding approximately 10 square feet of impacted surface area. Remediation of larger areas of mold contamination may require additional safeguards that are not included in these basic guidelines. The Environmental Health and Safety Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ) coordinator should be contacted to review the remediation procedures prior to commencing any large scale mold clean up

Surface Mold Growth on Non-porous Surfaces

Non-porous surfaces can typically be satisfactorily cleaned to remove any visible mold growth. Plastic, vinyl, glass, sealed wood and concrete fall into this category.

Mold growth on non-porous surfaces can be removed by damp wiping with a water and detergent solution. Wiping cloths must be damp, not wet or soaked, in order to minimize the amount of water added to the materials being cleaned.

Wiping cloths should be replaced frequently particularly if numerous pieces of furniture or large surface areas are involved. All wiping cloths must be disposed of following completion of the job.

The use of biocides (i.e. chlorine bleach) is not recommended except under special circumstances. (contact EH&S for additional guidance)

Minimum personal protective equipment must include eye protection and disposable gloves.

Removal of Small Areas of Mold Contaminated Porous Building Materials

Porous building materials (i.e. drywall, ceiling tiles, insulation, carpet) that are visibly moldy as a result of water damage cannot be satisfactorily cleaned and therefore must be discarded.

Removal of the material must be done with a minimum of disturbance to limit the chance of worker exposure and to prevent the spread of mold contamination to areas outside of the work area.

Drop cloths to protect the floor and relocating or covering furniture in the general work area should be done as needed to lessen the risk of additional contamination of surrounding surfaces.

Moldy materials should be lightly misted with water prior to removal to reduce the threat of spore and dust dispersal.

Areas surrounding the removed material must be damp wiped, HEPA vacuumed or both following removal of the mold. The extent of additional cleaning will be determined by what is removed.

Minimum personal protective equipment must include eye protection and disposable gloves. The use of an N-95 NIOSH approved respirator is also recommended. (Please note that the University has certain requirements that must be satisfied prior to wearing a respirator.)

Removal of Large Areas of Mold Contaminated Building Materials

This refers to areas of contamination exceeding 10 square feet.

Large areas of mold remediation may require the use of special techniques and procedures including full containments and upgraded respiratory protection.

The EH&S IEQ Coordinator must be contacted to review the work plan for any planned large scale mold remediation activities prior to the start of work.

General Mold Clean Up Considerations

Mold contaminated material is not regulated and can be disposed of as regular waste. In order to prevent the spread of mold to non-affected areas in a building, contaminated material must be removed from the work area in a sealed disposal bag or wrapped in plastic.

A commercial HEPA vacuum cleaner must be used whenever vacuuming of a work area as part of the mold remediation process is required.

Be aware that the removal of moldy material may result in an impact on asbestos particularly if carpet or plaster is involved. Please check with EH&S to verify whether a remediation project might also impact an asbestos containing material, particularly in buildings constructed prior to 1985.

Whenever possible, work areas should be unoccupied during mold clean up activities.

Removal of mold from an air conditioning system requires specialized work procedures. The EH&S office should be contacted for additional information.

MOLD REMEDIATION GUIDE

Mold poses a significant threat to property and the health of homeowners all over. Indoor exposure to mold can lead to different health complications, allergies included. To make it worse, most homeowners are not aware that mold has invaded their home until the physical signs show up

The truth is that even a small water leak is enough to cause undetected growth and spread of mold in your home.

All the same, there is always a way to fight mold before it becomes a major issue in your home, and this is what this guide is all about. Before we even go to the basics of mold remediation

Mold can grow in any place, as long as there is a food source, darkness, warmth, oxygen, and enough moisture. Rockville has a high humidity rate since there is plenty of water in the area. This is in consideration that there are creeks, ponds, channels, and water parks in the area that intensify the levels of humidity.

Common sources of mold

Mold is typically all around us, but in minimal quantities that are hard to detect. When presented with suitable conditions, however, mold can grow quickly and cause a lot of damage in a short span. The most common sources of mold in your home include damaged roofing, poor ventilation, and high relative humidity, basement flooding, condensation, and others. Basically, the main reason why mold may thrive in your home is dampness, brought about by too much moisture.

Common places where mold grows

The most common places where mold grows in homes are basements, bathrooms, and kitchens at times. This is in consideration that these areas may have a lot of moisture, creating a suitable thriving condition for mold. To discourage mold in your home, you should consider inspecting these areas regularly for leaky plumbing, poorly sealed spaces such as windows, inadequate insulation or any other issue that may encourage dampness.

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What To Look For In Web Based Payroll Service Software

Should You Manage Your Own Payroll Or Outsource?

Payroll should be much more than a line item on your quarterly financial report; it represents the way your company keeps promises. If you take out the wrong amount for taxes and benefits or file payments late, you run the risk of losing your employee’s trust in addition to violating regulations that could come with expensive consequences.

The intricacies of the payroll process lead many small companies to consider outsourcing. Business owners quickly outgrow the stage where they can devote hours to payroll every other week and ignoring more imminent business needs and operations. Deciding whether to manage your own payroll or outsource depends a lot on how much time, knowledge, and money you’re willing to spend.

This article is designed to provide a better understanding of your options, but you’ll still need to do some soul-searching and make a few difficult decisions on your own.

Option 1: DIY

Think of this option as your bare-bones paper and pencil or spreadsheet option. It’s not going to cost much on the front end, but you may go crazy trying to learn and track everything.

Time

You will spend significant amounts of time working on payroll every week with any option, but doing it yourself will take the most time. When you DIY, you’ll spend more time adding up employee hours, calculating taxes, writing/printing checks, and filing.

Knowledge

This option only works if you spend time familiarizing yourself with the tax codes and benefits procedures. Also take into account financial factors regarding hours, overtime, and 401k contributions, not to mention bonuses and sales commissions.

Money

This is the lowest-cost option, if you don’t include the opportunity cost of a longer process. You save money by handling everything yourself, probably on a spreadsheet.

Only consider a DIY payroll system if you are time-rich and revenue-poor. If you have a small staff, an uncomplicated payment structure without a lot of benefits, or lots of extra time to bring the information together, go for it. The opportunity-cost here can be expensive, especially for small business owners with tight schedules.

Option 2: DIY + Payroll Software

Hopefully you already use some sort of software to collect employee time cards and manage your accounting. Many of these options offer payroll processing for an additional fee per employee, with customer support. If your current vendor does not offer payroll, you might consider a standalone solution.

Time

You’ll still need to manually enter or check your numbers to make sure they’re correct, but payroll software will automate many of the more tedious aspects, saving you time and headaches. Most payroll programs remember changes and settings you put in place from pay period to pay period, so you can “set it and forget it” for the most part. Many systems also offer electronic filing, which means you can pay your taxes and do all your deductions from the same interface you’re already using.

Knowledge

Payroll customer support specialists don’t just fix bugs and answer questions. They’ll also keep you from messing up your payroll, because the more you mess up, the less you want to use their software in the future, and the more likely you are to give up and pay an outside firm. If your vendor provides trained payroll experts as a resource, use them.

Again, running a payroll program in-house will take a lot of learning, and you’re going to need to invest plenty of time in learning how to use the software, plus general accounting principles that apply to your payroll.

Money

This is the least expensive option in terms of time and money, especially if you choose a lighter, cloud-based option. Calculate the expense of a perpetual software license or a monthly subscription, and possibly customer support. Check the terms of service carefully, as many payroll software options require a fee per-employee. If you decide to hire an in-house payroll specialist to manage the process, you’ll need to factor in that employee’s hourly or salaried wage, of course.

Buying a payroll software is usually the best option for most small business owners who need to spend more time growing their business. If your business is more established, you can hire an employee who will take care of the administrative work.

Option 3: Outsource

Companies that have grown quickly or have minimal internal accounting expertise may find that outsourcing solves a lot of problems. While this option does take careful planning and follow-up with the payroll professional or agency, many companies outsource to simplify their processes and many end up reducing overhead.

Time

This option will save you lots of time, as you’ll only need to sign off on the final totals each pay period.

Knowledge

You will want to have a general knowledge of the accounting ramifications of payroll outsourcing before you choose a provider. Pay attention to location and experience when choosing an outsourced payroll service; these factors can impact the level or ROI you do or don’t achieve. You want an accountant who is familiar with your state’s tax code and your company’s industry. Deductions and overtime also vary from industry to industry, so it’s important for both you and the accountant to invest some time in getting to know these.

Money

Contract for savings. A really good accountant will be able to tell you how they’ve helped other companies run more efficiently or save money. Ask for specific stories from the accounting firm or individual. While a payroll/accounting contract will cost you significantly more than the other options here, the overall savings of not getting audited can pay dividends.

If you don’t have enough time or knowledge of accounting to go it alone, but you have the funds to pay for an expert, outsourcing may be a good option. A good payroll provider will:

  • Make sure your tax filings are correct and on time
  • Make sure your employees are paid correctly and on time
  • Explain any complications or inconsistencies

Whether you manage your own payroll or outsource to an accountant, you’re going to need a centralized system for managing all of your time, pay, benefits, and tax information. This can be as basic as a spreadsheet (which will still be pretty complicated and error-prone) or as advanced as a fully integrated accounting/ERP system. If you can’t afford to outsource your payroll, consider a time clock app and a stand alone accounting solution to simplify your process.

How should I run my payroll?

Though it is possible to perform payroll yourself with low-cost software, or hire someone to do it in-house, this can have disadvantages. Payroll can be onerous for a non-specialist to handle, leading to wasted time and potential mistakes. Similarly, if payroll is the sole responsibility of someone on your staff, you will have to work out what to do when they are off sick or on annual leave.

If you have a very small number of staff (say, five or fewer) and feel confident managing it yourself, this may be more cost effective. For a larger organisation, however, an outsourced payroll function may be preferable. The cost of payroll is relatively low for the level of security it provides, and it can free you up to grow at the pace you want. Be sure to choose a reputable accountant (beware of ultra-low cost online services as these may fall foul of the PAYE regulations). Payroll may well be included in the wide range of services that your accountant can provide.

What do you need to have before running manual payroll?

Okay, you’re finally ready to run payroll! But before you do, it’s helpful to have a few things handy.

  • Employee’s W-4: You’ll use this to reference your employee’s withholding allowance, which impacts how much taxes you’ll withhold.
  • Federal payroll tax withholding tables: The withholding tables are located in Publication 15-T.
  • State or local payroll tax withholding rates: If you’re required to withhold state or local income tax, then you’ll also need your state’s tax tables or withholding rates.

Payroll checklist

Now that you know the basics, it’s time to set up payroll. Depending on your business, you’ll need most of the information on this checklist to complete the paperwork and pay your new hire. Your employee will have to provide some information on a Form W-4 and direct deposit request form. The rest will come from your records or federal and state agencies.

This checklist can help you prepare all the necessary information to run payroll successfully. Here’s an overview of the items you’ll want to prepare:

  • Company details, including contact and tax information
  • Employee details, including personal information, earnings, benefits and deductions, and applicable direct deposit information
  • Tax details like your Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN) and deposit schedule
  • Bank details, including account information and the principal officer’s Social Security number
  • E-signatures from the principal officer
  • Prior payroll information, including previous payroll tax payments made during the year

On or before your employees’ payday

Every time you pay your employees, use your payroll software to:

  • Record their pay – include their salary or wages and any other pay.
  • Calculate deductions from their pay, like tax and National Insurance.
  • Calculate the employer’s National Insurance contribution that you’ll need to pay on their earnings above £183 a week.
  • Produce payslips for each employee (you can use different software if yours does not have this feature).
  • Report their pay and deductions to HMRC in a Full Payment Submission (FPS).

If you pay an employee less than £120 a week, you usually only need to record and report their pay (unless they have another job or receive a pension).

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How To Choose A Window Cleaning Training School

How to clean windows without streaks

It’s natural to want your windows to look as spotless as the day they were installed. Clean windows can allow more light into your home, and can make you feel more connected to the outdoors. But it can be tricky to figure out the the proper way to clean your windows while avoiding the pitfalls of streaking and scratching. Here are some tips on how to clean windows like a professional without paying the professional fees.

void using glass cleaners that are based in ammonia or alcohol. They may seem like they’d produce a more intense clean, but in reality, they can leave streaks and even a thin film that attracts dust and moisture. If you have an especially difficult spot, you can start your cleaning process by applying a solvent like acetone or rubbing alcohol to a clean cloth and rubbing it directly on the spot. Wipe it dry and then continue to clean your window as you would normally.

No matter how stubborn certain stuck-on materials may be, never use a razor or any other kind of blade to scrape them off. This can cause permanent scratches and leave your windows more vulnerable to breaking in the future.

Use a soft, lint-free wipe when rubbing the solution. A microfiber cloth is ideal but a gentle and clean paper towel can work as well. Rub from multiple directions to help avoid streaking.

If you find that you still have streaks after you’ve cleaned your window, simply rinse with clear water to help remove any of the remaining cleaning solution.

What types of cleaning solutions should you use?

If you’re going to purchase a solution, use a commercial cleaner from a brand that you trust, such as Window Cleaner.

You can also use a pre-mixed vinegar-based solution, or even make your own with our simple window cleaning DIY below.

Homemade window cleaning solution:

One of our favorite window cleaning hacks is to create your own window cleaning solution using simple distilled vinegar, otherwise known as white vinegar. This is an easy-to-find product (if you don’t already have it around the house). Its acidic composition works efficiently to help break down the streaky film that can accumulate on your windows and other glass surfaces

To clean your windows with your own homemade window cleaner, follow these easy steps:

Mix one part distilled vinegar to 10 parts warm water in a spray bottle.

Wipe down the window with a a soft, clean, lint-free microfiber cloth or paper towel to remove dust before you spray your solution, then spray the entire surface.

Use your lint-free towel to rub the vinegar mixture and work it into the dirty spots on your window. Feel free to be generous with the amount of cleaner you apply to the cloth or paper towel, but avoid getting any cleaning solutions on the wood, fiberglass or vinyl frames, as they may discolor the finish.

Use a second clean cloth to dry your window as thoroughly as possible. You’ll want to do this quickly after cleaning in order to prevent streaks, so if you have multiple windows to clean, it’s best to do them fully one at a time instead of spraying all of them at once.

Rinse with clear water if streaks remain after cleaning.

GLASS CLEANING GUIDELINES

Architectural glass products can be damaged through improper cleaning. To keep your architectural glass clean and damage free, we recommend following our four glass cleaning guidelines

Wash off any abrasive or alkaline material that comes into contact with glass immediately.

Use clean water, a non-abrasive applicator and a non-abrasive commercial window washing solution to clean concrete, mortar slurry or other potentially damaging material from glass. Use a squeegee with a rubber edge to remove all cleaning solution from the window.

Avoid cleaning tinted or and reflective glass surfaces in direct sunlight.

The heat from the window may cause the solution to dry to quickly and result in window streaks.

Work from the top down.

To avoid reside and cleaning solution being left on the glass at lower levels of the building, always start cleaning at the top of the building and work towards the bottom.

Never use a blade or other sharp object to clean the glass or remove debris.

Polycarbonate Window Cleaning Instructions ​​

Periodic cleaning of polycarbonate, using correct procedures with compatible household cleaners, is recommended to prolong the service life of your garage door window material. The use of abrasive, gritty cleaners and/or hard cleaning implements (e.g. hard brushes, scrapers, squeegees) should be avoided to eliminate the possibility of scratching the surface coating.

General cleaning:

1) Thoroughly pre-rinse with warm water to loosen and wash away surface material, grit and grime.

2) Using a soft microfiber cloth or moist non-abrasive sponge, gently wash with a mild diluted soap or detergent.

3) Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm clean water. To prevent water spots, thoroughly dry the glazing with a dry soft cloth.

Removing heavy oils and tars

1) Thoroughly pre-rinse with warm water to loosen and wash away surface material, grit and grime.

2) With a 50/50 isopropyl alcohol-water mixture, gently rub the area with a soft non-abrasive cloth.

3) Immediately rinse thoroughly with lukewarm clean water. To prevent water spots, thoroughly dry the glazing with a dry soft cloth.

Removing graffiti, paint, marker, inks and glazing compounds:

1) Thoroughly pre-rinse with warm water to loosen and wash away surface material, grit and grime.

2) Using Naphtha VM&P grade, Isopropyl Alcohol or Butyl Cellosolve, gently rub the area with a soft non-abrasive cloth. Do not apply solvent cleaners under direct sunlight or during high temperatures.

3) Immediately rinse thoroughly with lukewarm clean water. To prevent water spots, thoroughly dry the glazing with a dry soft cloth.

Removing adhesive backed labels:

1) Isopropyl Alcohol, Naphtha VM&P grade or Kerosene will help lift stickers and adhesives.

2) Immediately rinse thoroughly with lukewarm clean water. To prevent water spots, thoroughly dry the glazing with a dry soft cloth.

A beginners guide to window cleaning business

About This Class

This course covers the fundamentals of window cleaning business, which means that the students will learn how to clean the windows (the traditional way), how to price the houses, what equipment they need in order to start and so on. We will also go into the marketing your services.

We will also go into most common questions asked by new window cleaners

Course will touch on additional services such as cleaning the gutters and conservatories

After completing the course the students will have good knowledge to start their own window cleaning business (traditional way cleaning)

Course doesn’t cover using the pure water pole systems, only traditional window cleaning is taught in this course

Project Description

Put your knowledge to work! it would be great for you to try to clean all kinds of windows, but to start with the easiest window try to clean a window the standard way using a squeegee and share the “before and after” pics with us.Then if you are really brave, and you try to clean different types of windows (leaded ones) and share the pics with us as well.

Since the focus of this class is on manual skill, which takes time and practice, pay special attention to detail and be patient with yourself as it takes a few windows, before you stop making mistakes and start creating shiny windows.You can start to practice on your own windows at home and once you get confident you might be able to clean your friends windows.They might even recommend you to their neighbours and you could start your business sooner then you expected. Feel free to share your less skilful attempts as well, because we all learn from mistakes of others as much as our own. Good luck with your window cleaning adventures and do get in touch if you have any further questions.

Window cleaner

Window cleaning, or window washing, is the exterior cleaning of architectural glass used for structural, lighting, or decorative purposes. It can be done manually, using a variety of tools for cleaning and access. Technology is also employed and increasingly, automation.

Commercial work is contracted variously from in-person transactions for cash or barter, to formal tender processes. Regulations, licensing, technique, equipment and compensation vary nationally and regionally.

Tools

Chamois and scrim — Chamois is used to loosen and remove dirt, followed by a buffing with scrim or cheesecloth

Water and squeegee — Generally, chemicals are added to water, and a device such as a brush or cloth-covered handle is dipped into the resulting solution and used to scrub glass. A squeegee is then used to sluice the dirt and water mixture from the glass. Chemicals added to the solution range from dish soap and glass cleaner to Trisodium Phosphate and etching salt. In sub-freezing temperatures, anti-freezing chemicals are added to the solution to prevent it from crystallizing on the pane before it is sluiced off.

Water-fed poles — Any of a variety of types of telescopic poles, fitted at the upper end with a brush and water jets, fed either from vehicle-borne tanks of deionised water or by on-site production of deionised water using a domestic or commercial water outlet. The water is filtered by either a two-stage or three-stage filtration process, involving a carbon filter, and two de-ionization filters, or a carbon filter, a reverse osmosis membrane filter, and a de-ionization resin filter. The filtered water should contain a TDS (total dissolved solids) of 0 ppm (parts per million) when being used on windows

Access

Where glass is found are window cleaners, and methods of access and equipment related to both access and cleaning vary nationally and regionally. If a window is not easily accessible using one type of equipment then it is advisable to combine different tools to be able to clean it properly.

Ladders

Supported scaffolding — A temporary platform workers can stand on that is rests on a surface below, rather than hanging from above like suspended scaffolding.

Suspended platform or cradle — Unlike supported scaffolding, these are not fixed to a lower surface or the ground, but rather are suspended by wire rope from above. They raise and lower the worker either by hand or with a motor

Aerial work platforms are elevated platforms that workers can stand on, such as a scissor lift, or cherry picker. These include:

Boatswain’s chair (bosun’s chair) — A single-person seat designed for controlled descent of rope. Often referred to as “rope descent systems” (RDS), these are typically anchored to a roof structure, counterweight configuration, or connecting points designed for the purpose. These are always temporarily installed for the purpose of access. However, their anchor points can be either temporary or permanent.

Suspended platform — An access platform for one or more workers with manual or motor driven devices for raising and lowering via rope. Platforms may be fitted to high rise buildings or skyscrapers, or assembled from components to suit architecture and nature of work being performed. These can be either temporary or permanent. Both having their own unique governing codes and regulations.

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Places To Go And Facts To Know About Offshore Plastic Surgery

Why is Rhinoplasty so Complex?

If you’ve ever researched rhinoplasty, then you’ve probably read about how the procedure has changed patients’ lives. Most rhinoplasty stories have a happy ending, but it takes years of training for surgeons to give patients consistently good results. Why? Because rhinoplasty is an extremely complex procedure, and is considered one of the most difficult cosmetic surgeries to master. To avoid rhinoplasty complications, a surgeon has to blend art, science, and skill. Facial plastic surgeons work tirelessly to make sure patients are happy with their rhinoplasty results.

Let’s take a look at why rhinoplasty is such a difficult surgery—and what you can do to help ensure good results from your procedure.

The Nose and Facial Balance

The nose is one of the first things we notice about a person when we meet them. This is especially true if the nose is out of proportion with the rest of the facial features. Facial balance is key in our perceptions of beauty and attractiveness. If that balance is off, we notice right away. During rhinoplasty, surgeons have to alter the nose to make it in proportion to the rest of the patient’s unique facial features. That’s quite a challenge, especially since each patient has different expectations for their final results.

Different Types of Tissue

Our noses are made up of an interesting mix of different tissues. The base of the nose is made up of bone—this is the part of the nose that can get broken. A little further down, part of the bridge and the whole tip of the nose is made of cartilage. On top of everything is skin that must be manipulated during the surgery to drape properly over the internal structures of the nose. A surgeon’s job is to make sure that all these components work together in harmony. They may have to reshape cartilage and/or break and reset the nasal bones, depending on the procedure. These techniques help to ensure that the final results look natural.

Form and Function

Although many rhinoplasty surgeries are done for cosmetic reasons, that doesn’t mean surgeons can ignore the function of the nose. While operating, they must make sure that the structures of the nose stay intact and that the patient will be able to breathe properly once they’ve healed. Rhinoplasty complications sometimes occur when too much cartilage is removed—causing collapse and other problems.

A Custom Approach

One of the main reasons rhinoplasty is so challenging is that it is one of the most custom surgeries in plastic surgery. All modern plastic surgery is highly customized, but the nose’s complexity makes customizing rhinoplasty a combination of science and art. Surgeons must act as both the architect and the contractor, creating a plan for a patient’s nose, and then recreating it perfectly during surgery. That’s not easy to do for hundreds of unique patients each year. Without proper training and skill, rhinoplasty complications can be common.

Cheapest plastic surgery procedures

Plastic surgery costs vary by country and physician, so know what your money will buy before you proceed! Plastic surgery operations and treatments: the price you’ll pay.

With so much media attention on beauty and appearance, increasing numbers of people are turning to plastic surgery in their search for bodily perfection. Some become obsessed and have multiple procedures that end up costing astonishing amounts of money. The most popular cosmetic surgery procedures currently are the tummy-tuck, breast augmentation, and rhinoplasty – commonly called a “nose job.”

No plastic surgery is inexpensive. Besides the surgeon’s fee, patients have to consider the additional costs they could pay: anesthesia, medical tests, prescriptions, hospital or surgical facility fees and often some required after-care, which might include post-surgery exams and possibly home nursing for a period of time. So which procedures cost the least? We base our figures on the surgeon/physician fee to compare.

Breast lifts and breast reductions at $5,200 are cheaper than breast augmentation at $6,000. Silicone gel implants are more expensive than saline implants, but both cost over $3,000. A face-lift carries a surgeon fee of $8,000 to $10,000, while eyelid surgery is $4000-$5000.

Injectables

The cheapest fees are for injections and fillers, most commonly done right in the physician’s office. The doctor charge for Botox injections averages $400 per treatment plus the cost of the drug. Collagen injections to plump lips and fill in fine lines average $500 per session. Wrinkle-filler Juvederm is the commonly known name for Hyaluronic Acid, with an injection of this adding about $600 to your bill.

Also on the lower end of plastic surgery costs are micro-dermabrasion and laser treatments. The micro-dermabrasion is meant to remove a miniscule layer of skin to encourage fresher cells to the skin surface. The physician fee is in the $200 to $250 range. IP Laser treatments average $400, as does laser hair removal. Laser skin resurfacing is more expensive, ranging in price from $1,000 to $2,500. Having a chemical facial peel done at a plastic surgery facility will cost $600 to $1,000.

Body Sculpting

To have liposuction on one area of the body — stomach, thighs, arms, buttocks — costs $4,000. Aside from the similarly priced eyelid surgery, it’s the cheapest “major” plastic surgery procedure. If you opt to have liposuction on your stomach, you’ll pay $2,500 less than you would for a “tummy tuck.”

The most inexpensive “lift” surgery is a forehead lift at $3,200, as compared to a full facelift or buttock lift ($5,000), a lower-body lift ($8,000) or an upper-arm lift ($4,000 per arm) and thigh lift ($5,000 each.)

Surgical and non-surgical procedures by plastic surgeons will always vary in cost. The doctors set their fees based on many factors including experience and area. Research doctors and costs in your own area before deciding on a surgery or other treatment.

Dreams of Nip Tuck: How to Afford Plastic Surgery

No one is born perfect and sometimes having the freedom to tweak our looks can bring us comfort and confidence. In fact, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons discovered that Americans spent nearly $16.5 billion on plastic surgery in 2018.

Cosmic surgery is an elective surgery which means insurance does not cover it. If you’re hoping for a nip tuck, for example, you will have to pay for it with cash, credit or alternative financing. Figuring out your financing can be daunting and we’ve got your back. Here are seven tips on how to afford plastic surgery.

Personal Loans

If you’re desperate for surgery but are unsure how to finance it, a personal loan is handy especially if you can’t fork out a large sudden payment and are seeking plastic surgery financing no credit check. Unsecured loans from the bank have a fixed interest rate with a specified amount of time for repayment.

Before applying for a loan, ensure you are able to pay back a couple hundred dollars or more every month. It’s possible to qualify for a personal loan with lower rates than through a credit card or opt for a medical loan that offers zero-interest financing.

Pros

Compared with other financing choices, unsecured loans are a cheaper alternative to securing cosmetic surgery loans. Even though interest rates can run more than those on credit cards, bank loans have fixed interest rates and time in which to repay.

It’s a great option for those after cosmetic surgery finance bad credit. You can boost your credit score as long as you make on-time payments until the repayment term is finished. Also, unlike credit cards, you aren’t allowed to add more to the balance and dig yourself deeper in debt.

Cons

A personal loan will add to the procedure’s cost because of the interest charges over time. Also, if your credit is less than perfect, you’ll receive an interest rate closer to a credit card’s which varies depending on your creditworthiness.

Medical Credit Cards

This option is a popular way to finance plastic surgery as it’s easy to qualify for and is only used to cover medical expenses. Medical cards are attractive because they are easy to get, come with a 0% promotions and fairly low-interest rates. It’s also prevents overspending as your card only covers medical purposes.

If you do use a medical credit card, make sure you pay for procedures as you go along. It’s tempting to pay for a string of operations upfront but you should only pay for what you can afford to eventually pay off and for the scheduled procedures.

Pros

Medical cards have introductory interest rate offers from six months to two years. There are appealing plastic surgery payment plans such as no interest during the promotional period or a longer payoff period with a reasonable interest rate until the balance is paid.

Cons

The major drawback of Medical credit cards stems from the promotional offer. Be wary of the fine print as it states that if the balance isn’t paid in full by the end of the promotional period, then interest is applied retroactively on the entire balance.

This can be a huge shock for those who are unable to pay off the full balance and end up having to pay extra as a penalty. Also, never miss a payment as you could lose your promotional rate, forcing you to pay at a far higher interest rate. Before committing to a medical card, research it and read the fine print. Avoid paying for multiple procedures upfront and pay as you go.

Doctor’s Payment Plans

Some plastic surgeons provide support with financing for plastic surgery. But many avoid getting financially involved with patients and ask third party financing companies to help.

Pros

You won’t have to pay interest and the payment will not affect your personal credit because they don’t report to any major credit card companies.

Cons

Trouble will arise if you can’t pay your doctor and they will be less likely to follow through with any future procedures. But most surgeons require upfront payment in full before beginning the process.

Savings

A major plus is not having the hassle of securing cosmetic surgery loans. Instead, you can finally put all that money you’ve been squirreling away to good use and treat yourself to a nip tuck.

 Pros

Using your own money means no debt or paying interest.

Cons

It’s horrible watching your hard-earned money disappear, especially if it’s saved for emergencies. Having less cash means you’re far more vulnerable if a true emergency comes up.

Gifts

Not everyone wants jewelry and a fancy dinner for their birthday. There are gift certificates available for procedures or fundraisers so family and friends can donate towards your plastic surgery.

Pros

You get your dream present without dipping into your funds. If you’re comfortable asking for plastic surgery as a gift, use a reputable site like GoFundMe where loved ones will feel more secure depositing funds.

Cons

You may be too embarrassed to ask and no one bothers donating.

Home Equity Loan

A Home Equity Loan (or HELOC) takes the equity you’ve collected in your home and converts it to cash.

Pros

Interest depends on current mortgage rates and is likely to be tax-deductible.

Cons

No one wants to lose equity in their home as it’s like starting over the buying process for your house. If disaster strikes and the housing market plummets, you may have to sell your house and face a difficult financial situation. Before taking the plunge, weigh the options before using your home equity to fund your nip tuck.

Now You Know How to Afford Plastic Surgery, Good Luck!

Before you embark on your journey, you must understand how to afford plastic surgery. As long as you continue to pay off your loan in time, you will have no problems. It’s a good idea, though, to decide which procedure to have first before splurging on multiple procedures at once to avoid a financial dilemma. Good luck!

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What To Do To Keep Bed Bugs Out Of Your Bed

How to Get Rid of Bed Bugs

bed bug cases have been reported in virtually every region on earth, including all 50 U.S. states. Although their numbers fell into decline during the mid-20th century, a resurgence of bed bug infestations began in the 1980s and has largely continued to this day.

Bed bugs feed almost exclusively on human blood, and – as they name implies – they often inhabit areas where people sleep to ensure a steady food source. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), bed bugs are commonly found on or near the piping, seams, and tags of mattresses and box springs, as well as nooks and crannies of the bed frame and headboard.

What Are Bed Bugs?

The bed bug, or Cimex lectularius, is a parasitic insect that belongs to the cimicidae family. Bed bugs are barely visible to the naked eye; most measure about 5mm to 7mm in length. Key identifiers include:

A mottled, red-brown color

Flat, ovoid shape when unfed; ballooning shape when fed

Relatively small wings compared to body size

An odor the EPA describes as “musty-sweetish” that comes from glandular secretions

Human blood is the bed bug’s primary food source. They are nocturnal eaters, and will rarely bite humans during the day. While they can survive for more than a year without eating, bed bugs may consume blood daily if it is readily available. In fact, they can consume as much as seven times their own body weight during one feeding session. Pets and animals may carry bed bugs, but they are rarely bitten. Although they usually remain near sleeping human hosts, adult bed bugs will travel up to 100 feet in search of food.

Bed bug bites produce small red lumps, along with a severe itch that may linger for several days. Thankfully, numerous studies have concluded that bed bugs do not transmit any blood-borne pathogens between human hosts, but the bites can still be very uncomfortable.

How to Kill Bed Bugs, the Enemy You Sleep With

I’d lost count of how many salvos of Raid I’d used on my roommate’s mattress by the time I hoisted it up to slip on a plastic cover. As I did so, the bed bugs — fat with stolen blood — fell into my hair and dropped lazily to the floor.

They’re dead. They’re dead. They’re dead. Over and over again I repeated the mantra in my head, sealing the heavy-duty plastic up as tight as possible and shimmying it out my door and down three flights of stairs, before running back inside out of the November cold.

That’s right. November. Even though bed bug infestations peak in August, rest assured, they appear year-round — I should know. That’s why you need to learn how to prevent and destroy them, ideally before you ever even see one. Winter is coming. This is the definitive guide to preparing for the worst and making war upon your enemy: the common bed bug.

How to kill the common bed bug: Understand you are waging war

Scout the field of battle, collect samples, and plan

If you’re reading this, you have probably already seen at least one bed bug and never want to see any again, but it’s still a good idea to scoop one up and put it in a Ziploc bag. This will show an extension agent or exterminator what you’re dealing with, as well as provide evidence in case a landlord is unwilling to comply with laws regulating bed bugs and pest control.

The first thing I did was call my landlord to tell him what the situation was. He put me in touch with his go-to exterminator, who immediately texted me a short checklist (below) of things to take care of before bed bug treatment, then told me that his pesticide extermination would take place in two sessions, one week apart from each other.

A PRACTICAL GUIDE TO BED BUG PREVENTION AND CONTROL

The common bed bug is one of the most common pests found in human dwellings all over the world, especially in multi-family housing units. Many people, especially property managers and tenants in apartment buildings (complexes), shelters, dormitories, and other housing facilities, do not know how to properly get rid of bed bugs. Perhaps more importantly, they do not know how to keep bed bugs from gaining entry into public facilities. This publication provides some basic information about the bed bug, how to prevent it from infesting a housing unit, and how to eliminate bed bug infestations.

Stop Bed Bugs Before They Get In

Multiple-family housing is at high risk for bed bug infestations. People and their personal belongings move into these facilities almost every day, which makes the chances quite high that bed bugs will enter. It is important for management to work with individuals who are moving in or coming for a visit to prevent them from introducing bed bugs. Existing tenants can also take steps to keep bed bugs from establishing in the building, which will reduce the cost of any control program.

A property manager should interview incoming tenants and ask if they have been exposed to bed bugs recently, if anyone in the family has been bitten by bed bugs, and if they need help with a known or suspected bed bug problem. Immediate help is critical to avoid spreading bed bugs in the facility. Assist potential tenants with medical attention for bites, help them launder clothes, and isolate their furniture and other belongings until the bugs can be killed. Keep in mind that an interview isn’t always foolproof: tenants may not know they have bed bugs or that they have been bitten by them.

Identification and Behavior

Bed bugs feed on human blood and usually bite when people are sleeping. In most people, the bites cause red welts and itching that can last several days. Some people have no reaction to bed bug bites and are not even aware of an infestation.

Unlike mosquitoes, bed bugs do not transmit diseases, although prolonged exposure can cause allergic reactions or asthma, especially in children. Bed bugs must feed several times on humans to complete their life cycle and lay eggs. Since they depend solely on blood for food, and can develop large infestations, bed bug bites often lead to emotional anguish and sleeplessness.

Bed bugs: Do-it-yourself control options

Bed bugs are one of the most difficult pest problems to eradicate quickly. By far, the best solution for bed bugs is to hire a pest control company with experience successfully controlling bed bugs. Unfortunately, this can be expensive and beyond the means of many people. If you feel you cannot afford to hire a professional, and want to attempt do-it-yourself bed bug control, there are some things you can do. With diligence and patience and some hard work you have a fighting chance of getting rid of bed bugs in your home.

If you live in an apartment or condominium, it’s best to alert the property manager.  A coordinated bed bug control effort using a pest control company is generally needed in such situations. Bed bugs readily move from apartment to apartment, with many people unaware that they have a problem. If one apartment is infested, adjoining units (left side, right side, above and below) should be assumed to be infested unless shown otherwise through inspection or monitoring.  Simply asking tenants whether they have bed bugs is not enough.

Pesticides alone are not the answer to bed bugs. Most of the commonly used pesticides today, including professional products and consumer products advertised for control of bed bugs, are at best moderately effective at controlling these pests. Pesticides must be used with care for safety and with attention to proper application to work well. Aerosol “bug bombs” or “fumigators” are also mostly ineffective in eliminating bed bugs. Aerosol insecticides mainly kill insects that are exposed, and out of their hiding places, not those hidden behind baseboards, in cracks and crevices of the bed, under carpet edging and in walls.

Steps for do-it-yourself bed bug control

Determine which rooms are infested. Bedrooms are the principal locations for bed bugs; however, any room where people sleep in the home may provide harborage for bed bugs. Living rooms with sofas and sofa beds are the next most common sites for bed bugs. Typically an infestation starts in one room and spreads slowly to other places where people sleep.  The sooner you find and treat bed bugs the easier it will be to get rid of them.  Wait too long and bed bugs may be found throughout your home.

Don’t throw your bed away.  It’s generally unnecessary to throw away beds or bedding. It is expensive to replace bedding, and chances are that any new mattresses, box springs or beds you bring into the home will quickly become re-infested.  The money to replace a bed or mattress might better be spent on hiring a professional.

Create a safe place to sleep.  This is critical because staying in your own bed will reduce the risk of bed bugs spreading throughout your home. If you move to another room to sleep, the bed bugs will eventually follow.  Then you’ll have bed bugs in multiple rooms

Make your bed a safe place to sleep by:

Stripping and vacuuming the mattresses and box springs, and encasing them.  Double bag your bedding and wash in hot water and dry for at least 30 minutes (discard the inner bag after putting bedding into the washer, as it could have bed bugs).  After vacuuming suspected bed bugs from the bed, take your vacuum cleaner outdoors and remove and discard the bag.  Purchase a good quality set of bed-bug-proof encasements for your mattresses and box springs. Bed bug-proof encasements are fabric sacks into which you slide your mattress or your box spring. The zippers on bed bug encasements are designed to be tight enough to prevent even the smallest life stages of the bed bugs from escaping. Also, good bed bug-proof encasements are woven to prevent bed bugs from biting you through the encasement. A good encasement will trap all bed bugs in the mattress and box spring inside, and will be smooth on the outside, providing few places for bed bugs to hide. Sears, Target, Walmart and other stores may sell bed bug-proof encasements, but these can also be purchased online.

LEARN HOW TO GET RID OF BED BUGS

Step process is a summary of all the techniques we’ve tried and found effective in getting rid of bed bugs. While we include a variety of solutions in the step process the easiest and most cost effective solution we can recommend is heat treatment.

Heat treatment has several benefits: unlike with pesticides, bed bugs are not able to acquire a resistance to heat treatment over time, and will die within minutes at 120F. Since this temperature is relatively low it is safe for the majority of household goods.

The methods presented throughout the 8-step process can be used in conjunction with these products or by themselves if you find that even the is outside of your price range. Professional pest management is also a great solution if this sounds like something you don’t have the time or patience for and if you can afford it.

CREATE A SAFE ZONE

In this step we show you how to make your bed into a Safe Zone, completely free of bed bugs and proofed against re-infestation. This will allow you to get a good night’s sleep without getting bitten and to feel safe in your own bed

DEALING WITH YOUR PERSONAL BELONGINGS

Bed bugs are so small they can hide in just about anything. In this step, we show you how to make sure all of your personal and household items are bed bug free

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Tips In Choosing An Auto Repair Shop

Auto repair estimates – making a career from writing estimates

What is usually an estimator?

An estimator is somebody who writes Auto Repair estimates on vehicles that have been involved in an impact. The estimator must see the basic car design and know the nomenclature of a car. The estimator must also have good communication skills because deal with customers more and more often. Not only does the estimator have to speak with customers, but they is likewise the contact person for few insurance companies, shop keepers, and the shop foreman or go with the technicians. Therefore, communications is needed for an auto estimator. This career pathway important event for a people van. In fact, I would even say this that writes Auto Repair estimates as being an Auto Body Repair center choosing the proper part salesman. It is their job to sell they can be kept self, the company, the actual technicians, and the service the fact that the shop provides. Not every part technicians make good estimators, but it is a good idea for the estimator to find experience as a staff. Although, there have been that they hired without experience and trained from your very own shop to write forecasts.

Who Will Hire You’re likely to be?

There are two different industries that hire sticker price estimators. One is Auto Body Repair shops and a second is insurance companies. It could maybe also split into other categories atlanta divorce attorneys industry. Collision shops must be used dealerships, franchise shops, so to independent shops. Some insurance firms hire their own sticker price estimators, while other insurance firms hire independent auto estimators. Clothes write estimates for the insurance coverage company your title happens to be an auto appraiser not only an auto estimator.

What Are you Expect To Earn?

This can vary using the experience and if with you a small body shop or an insurance company. However, according to O*Net the national median for an The cost-effective Damage Appraiser is $53, 440 along a growth rate in 7% to 10% held in a ten year period. (2006 – 2016) Quite a bit of collision repair centers will probably pay their estimators a salary and a lot off the every job that they offer. Therefore, the more estimate sales what type of estimator produce, the more income they could earn if on this types bonus incentives.

What is step 1 towards this career?

The first thing you’ll need is to learn is actually basics. You can make this happen by enrolling in a collision repair program. Many discussion board and junior colleges are you going to these programs. This means learn the basics rrn regards to the entire industry. Everything ever since the body repair, structural also frame repair to pudding and yoghurt. Most programs incorporate a super easy estimating course within your vehicle program. This will place in a taste of the industry and where you fit in best at. You may decide to become a collision or paint technician spanning a person that writes Auto Repair forecasts. Whatever you decide, this training is step 1 to securing a job the next day auto collision repair or perhaps estimating careers. Some insurance companies require that you have a bachelor degree, but many will not. Experience hold a wealth weight with insurance companies too. The training is your foundation and some tips you build the building is perfectly up to you. What I mean that is, once you employ a your basics down, there are many opportunities and directions to explore.

Where do I the facility to gain the learning?

The best training for your money could be at a junior or community college. Community colleges normally attention to smaller groups, which retains lower student per teacher ratio. This leads appropriate deeper level of language learning. They also receive state and school funding, which allows them to provide quality programs at an extremely lower cost to the scholar. Other training facilities include technical schools and owned schools. Check with your local community college to see if they offer collision refurbishment. If not, ask them individuals a nearby tech school which. Chances are that they’re able to know where to make suggestions on in the right plan. Once enrolled in a major accident repair program, you will be soon on your way a career as one that writes Auto Repair estimates or several other career pathways that collision repair delivers.