Your Hard Hat Has an Expiration Date?

       
    Expiration Stamp

It is hard to believe, but a Hard Hat, and it may be the one you are
wearing right now has an expiration date.  This date is imprinted on the inside of the hat by the manufacturer.  It is recommended that a Hard Hat be replaced every five years.  If you work outside then you may have to replace them every two years.  This may be the result of ultraviolet radiation that will cause a natural degradation over time of the plastic.

You Can Test your Hard Hat– To See What Condition Your Hard Hat is in you can do the Crackle “Pop” Test.  To perform this test all you have to do is hold the Hat upside down and squeeze the two sides together if you hear a cracking sound then the jig is up and you need a new Hard Hat.  If your ear plugs are in when you do the test then what can I say?  But seriously your hat will no longer provide the necessary protection that you will need in the event of any impact to your head.

Now let’s talk about the inside webbing of your Hard Hat, that is recommended to be replaced every 12 months.  The webbing comes out and should be replaced because of all the wear and tear.  The webbing acts as your shock absorber and creates a secure fit for your head.  The idea is to keep your hat on so there are no near miss accidents that cause you injury.

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 Refillable Soap Dispensers:

A Breeding Ground for Bacteria

Jan/san distributors have understood for some time that refillable soap dispensers in public facilities are prone to accumulate bacteria and other contaminants. A recent study surprised some, but for a great many in the industry, it affirmed the already-recognized need for steps to protect against such risks.

Refillable dispensers come in a variety of options — they can be mounted on walls or in counters or even be a bottle placed on the counter in a small restroom — but all pose the same potential threat.

Dr. Gerba studied 541 soap samples from around the United States, finding that 25 percent had unsafe levels of bacteria (more than 500 parts per million) and 16 percent contained coliform bacteria, which are fecal-based and can cause illnesses. While Gerba expected that, the volume surprised him.

When bacteria like coliform contaminates soap, it thrives in it. And, unfortunately, when custodians add new soap to the old supply without rinsing out the dispensers first, it only exacerbates the problem.

However, the study found no pathogens in soap dispensed via sealed systems.

To avoid contamination, the best possible solution in most cases is to use sealed containers that are thrown out after being used, says Dr. Gerba.

Sanitary sealed systems typically use individual bags that come with their own dispensers. The bags are inserted into a casing or “box” — either counter-mounted or wall-mounted — and are simply removed and replaced in full when they are empty. In most cases, refills snap into place and the use of a new dispensing valve with each new bag eliminates the accumulation of germs.

Hand washing is supposed to rid users of germs, but unfortunately, that’s not always the case for restrooms with refillable dispensers. To keep restroom patrons healthy, distributors will have to continue to educate their customers about the potential dangers of these dispensers and how to alleviate the threat of bacteria.

*Visit www.amerisourcesupply.com to purchase sealed system hand soaps or contact Customer Service at 313-924-0696 today!*

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Liquid Life Enzymatic Cleaner

Product Description:

A multi-purpose enzymatic cleaner. It’s a special blend of enzyme producing bacterial cultures and biodegradable surfactants. Extremely effective in odor control and degrading organic waste. Digests proteins, fats, oils, grease, starches, hair, vegetable gums and other organic waste. Eliminates odor at the source. THE PERFECT SOLUTION TO PESKY FRUIT FLIES!

Where to Use:

Drains – Grease Traps – Sinks & Showers – Instrument Cleaner & Presoak – Sewers – Lift Stations – Carpet/Upholstery – Fabric

Directions for Use:

* Odor Eliminator - Spray directly on source of odor. Can be used as a mist to eliminate airborne odors. May also be used to eliminate odors from fabric.

* Spot & Stain Remover – Saturate problem area with Liquid Life. Use clean white clot to blot out product. In some cases, place a towel moistened with product over the problem area to keep damp for 24 hours.

* Restrooms – To deodorize urinals and bowls, spray surfaces and surrounding area.

* Drains & Grease Traps – Pour directly in drain or grease trap at the rate of 8 ounces per day.

* Septic Tank – Pour 8 ounces per week directly into toilet and flush.

* Fruit Flies – Soak soda spouts, beverage guns and liquor portion spouts in Liquid Life for several minutes to eliminate sugar, fruit and alcohol residue. Follow up by rinsing with a food-grade sanitzer according to your local health department reulations. After mopping floors, soak mop heads in Liquid Life, wring out and let dry. This will eliminate the odors that attract fruit flies. Safely pour Liquid Life down all drains including: floor drains, beer tap drains and sinks to control breeding sources.

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Prices Continue to Increase on Plastic Trash Can Liners

A few weeks back we sent out a notice stating that prices of plastic trash can liners have increased. We have just been notified by our vendors and polymer producers that raw material costs are still going up. The price increases are expected to be about 7-12% (actual increase amount will be product specific) on all trash can liners and food bag products.

The reasons cited for the price surges this year are:

• Oil price increases in the US and abroad
• Uncertainty over the situation in several oil producing nations in the Middle East
• Increasing demand for plastic resin as markets recover from global recession
• Rapidly growing demand for resin in emerging markets

This price increase will be effective on or after March 28, 2011 and will only be guaranteed at that pricing until May 1, 2011. We will work closely with you to keep you updated on the changing market conditions and pricing information. Please contact your sales representative or customer service should you have any questions or concerns. Thank you for your business and continued support!

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For Perfect Floors – Follow These Instructions

Preparation

1) Remove all displays, carts, mats, etc. from the floor
2) Dust mop the area to be stripped
3) Display ‘Caution – Wet Floor’ signs
4) Place towels or mats at door entrances to prevent tracking

Stripping the Floor
(Approximate coverage: 600-800 square feet per dilution gallon)

1) Dilute stripper according to directions with water.
2) Apply liberally with mop – keeping floor saturated for at least 10 minutes.
(NOTE: Stripping solution should not be allowed to dry on the floor – work in manageable sections)
3) Agitate slowly using a floor maching with a strip pad. Use a maintenance pad holder and black pad for corners and edges and TAKE YOU TIME! Rewet areas that start to dry until you can pick up the emulsified finish.
4) Pick up emulsified finish with a wet/dry vacuum.
5) Apply clean rinse water liberally and wet vac or mop up the rinse water.
6) Using clean water, damp mop entire floor.
7) Allow floor to dry. (A fan or floor dryer may be used to help dry the floor faster.)
8 ) The floor should look evenly dull with no coloration difference. Look for strip areas that look uneven and rinse these areas well.
9) Run your hand over the floor and if any residue is found – damp mop the floor again.
10) Using a slow speed maching (165-190 rpm) and a red pad, quickly dry buff the entire floor.

Finishing the Floor
(Approximate coverage: 1500-2000 square feet per gallon)

1) Pour finish into a clean mop bucket lined with a plastic trash bag.
2) Using a new finish mop head, slowly immerse mop into the finish and gently wring out the bottom 1/3 of the mop head.
3) Draw mop along the wall next to the baseboard.
4) Apply a thin, uniform coat of finish using a sweeping, figure-eight pattern.
(NOTE: If it looks milky, it has been applied too thick – apply enough to allow the finish to level)
5) Allow to dry for at least 30 minutes between coats. Wait at least an hour between the 3rd and 4th coat.
6) Apply 3 – 4 coats in this manner.
7) Do NOT pour left over finish back into the container.

Routine Cleaning

1) Dust mop floor daily.
2) Clean floor with diluted solution of neutral cleaner. (1-2 oz. per gallon of water)  Apply with an automatic scrubber or a damp mop.

Restoration

1) Dust mop floor to remove surface grit.
2) Apply a thin coat of floor revitalizer or rebuff to the floor and let dry completely.
3) Burnish with a high speed buffer and a combo burnishing pad. Clean and change pads frequently.
4) Dust mop floor if any powder of dust is present after burnishing.

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Cotton Prices Continue to Soar!

Over the past several months the cost of cotton has increased over 30% and is predicted to continue to rise. Terrible weather conditions, increased crude oil prices and high demand are the culprits behind the shortages and resulting price increases.

Cotton is currently selling at a record-breaking price of approximately $2 per pound. Several of our products such as gloves, mops, personal protective apparel and some first aid products will be effected by these unfavorable market conditions. If you purchase any of these products – please be aware that prices will be rising.

We are working with our vendors to minimize the effects of the price increases on our cotton products, but due to the shortage of product and high demand, the prices will inevitably rise over the upcoming months. We assure you that we are watching the market carefully and are doing our best to keep you informed. Thank you for your support and understanding. And as always, feel free to contact us if you have any questions or concerns!

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Healthier Alternatives to Eradicating Bedbugs

Local Janitorial Distributor Involved in Helping to Eradicate Bed Bugs

Hamtramck, MI – Feb 3, 2011 – Amerisource Industrial Supply and Tornado® Industries, a leading manufacturer of professional cleaning equipment, have joined forces to help clarify some biting issues regarding bedbugs, which have made a big comeback in the United States after years of being dormant.

The team is presenting this White Paper, available on both the Amerisource Industrial Supply’s and the Tornado Web sites, discussing ways cleaning professionals and others can eradicate bedbugs, employing strategies that have a reduced impact on the environment yet are very effective.

The paper was written by Michael Schaffer, president of Tornado Industries. “A year ago, I never thought I would be writing a White Paper on bedbugs,” says Schaffer. “But it is an issue that has been in the news and we have been asked what the cleaning industry can do to assist in addressing the problem.” Schaffer believes the professional cleaning industry can help eradicate bedbugs using professional steam cleaners. These systems do not require chemicals and are one of the most environmentally responsible tools available to tackle the job.

“Steam is undoubtedly one of the best ways to kill bedbugs,” agrees Lou Ray, president of Amerisource Industrial Supply. “Some professional grade steam cleaners provide high enough temperature (around 250degrees Fahrenheit) and sufficient steam to kill not only active adult bedbugs but also their eggs.”

The White Paper includes a number of suggestions on how to use a steam cleaner to eradicate bedbugs. For instance, it states the user should:

• Pay particular attention to seams and ribbing on beds and chairs

• Avoid using nozzles with “jets” because they can blow the bugs from one surface to another, instead of killing them

• Where necessary, wrap the nozzle with a cleaning cloth to allow direct contact with the surface being cleaned and even better steam control

Schaffer adds that using the steam treatment “can dramatically reduce the amount of pesticides necessary, making this an effective, healthier, and more ‘socially responsible’ way of handling the bedbug problem.”

For more information, visit Amerisource Industrial Supply’s Website or call (313) 924-0696.

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Tips for a Clean Restroom

Step 1: Deodorization
• Add NILIUM to your mopping solution at 1oz. per gallon dilution ratio.
(ex: If you have 3 gallons of mop water – add 3 oz. of Nilium)

 Step 2: Source Removal (Important step!)
• After mopping is complete – simply spray the URINE DIGESTER around all urinals and commodes. This product can also be sprayed onto the floor drains if neccessary.

Monthly Restroom Procedures
• Check URINAL SCREENS/BLOCKS every 30 days, change if neccessary.

Metered Aerosol Dispensers
• GREEN indicator light will blink on the METERED AEROSOL DISPENSER when REFILL CAN needs to be replaced. (Change refills roughly every 52 days)
• To replace, just switch the dispenser to OFF and insert a new refill can.
• Then, turn the dispenser ON and push the test button (on the side) to make sure the dispenser is working properly.

 **VISIT AMERISOURCESUPPLY.COM FOR ANY OF YOUR JANITORIAL SUPPLY NEEDS**
 

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ICE MELTER

MAY WE SUGGEST THESE ICE MELTING PRODUCTS…

Now is the time to stock up on ice melting products before you actually need them. It is also a good idea to keep a small bag in the trunk of your car in case you get stuck on an icy parking lot or side street. There are many products available and understanding the differences between them will help you choose the best one.

HOW DO ICE MELTING PRODUCTS WORK?

Ice melting products work by first attracting moisture and forming a liquid, then as the liquid flows over and under the ice it causes it to melt. The rate of melting depends on how fast the chemical reacts to the existing moisture. When temperatures drop there is less water available and melting is slowed or inhibited. All products will have some effect on the environment.

The two most commonly used and inexpensive materials are Rock salt ( sodium chloride, NaCl) and calcium chloride (CaCl₂). They melt ice over the broadest temperature range and are the only materials effective below 20F. Sodium chloride will work down to 15F, and calcium chloride to 5F. Both are very corrosive and can damage lawns, trees and shrubs.

Ice melting materials that are less corrosive are: urea (fertilizer), potassium chloride (KCL), and calcium magnesium acetate (CMA). These materials are only effective down to 20F and are more expensive. The least effective of the three is the urea. This is a fertilizer and is required in large amounts to melt ice and therefore has the potential to pollute surface and ground water. The Maryland Cooperative Extension does not recommend using fertilizers for ice melting.

Often products contain combinations of the above materials along with an aggregate like sand to aid traction. These products are effective over the entire range of temperatures while offering reduced environmental impact. Check the label to be sure of the contents of the package.

APPLICATION AND STORAGE

Ice melting products are best applied prior to ice formation. They should be spread thinly over the entire surface. If thick ice has formed in very cold weather add some water to the product to initiate melting.

Experts emphasize that proper ice melter storage will depend on the composition of the product. A good rule of thumb: Ice melters should be stored in airtight containers in humidity-controlled environments. In other words, keep them away from moisture and air.

According to experts, chlorides will draw moisture and will degrade and harden the ice melt product. But, if you have product left over at the end of the season as long as the bag hasn’t been opened, you can leave it as is. Again, any open containers must be completely sealed as exposed ice melters attract moisture and can lead to a product that’s akin to concrete.

Cleaning departments are also encouraged to keep bagged ice melt in air tight containers and covered with a dark wrap to keep the bags from becoming brittle from ultra violet exposure.

Suggested rules of storage for ice melters:
• Protect them from humidity/moisture and sunlight.
• Store them in the original or sealed bag — must be air tight

SAFETY: FOR YOURSELF AND THE ENVIRONMENT

• When using calcium chloride, you must protect eyes and hands as this product can burn unprotected skin.
• Beware of slip and fall hazards. Some manufacturers comment that the oily-like residue from snow and ice treated with calcium chloride can represent a dangerous slip and fall hazard. Customers ought not be fooled by calcium chloride products that claim to have been treated to eliminate this nasty residue — by its very chemical makeup, calcium chloride leaves behind an oily-like residue.
• Use the recommended amount. Overuse can burn vegetation and desiccate the soil. The best precaution is to use spreaders with guards to prevent ice melters from being applied to areas which can be damaged. For narrow pathways and walks, drop spreaders are most effective. (Plus, it costs money to waste product.)
• Of course, do not ingest the product.

Tip:
Many customers think that the ice melt products damage concrete. According to experts, in reality it is the physical freeze/thaw cycle which is accelerated by ice melters that causes spalling in the concrete surface. Using ice melters that work at a lower temperature will lessen this effect as they will lessen the frequency of refreezing..

So, order your ice melter ahead of time, make sure you get the one that’s right for you, store it properly…and enjoy a (relatively) hassle-free, ice-free winter season.

YOU CAN FIND ICE MELTER AND RELATED PRODUCTS AT

AMERISOURCE INDUSTRIAL SUPPLY

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There are many types of stretch wrap film. Each has qualities that are particularly suitable in addressing the specific needs of your stretch wrapping operation, such as load size and type, performance requirements as well as budget. The following lists some of the most important types of stretch film, their attributes and applications. Click on a stretch wrap film below for details.

Cast Stretch Film 
Cast stretch film also called cast film or cast wrap, is manufactured using the cast extrusion process. Typical characteristics of cast stretch films are: excellent optics, clear, glossy, superior tear resistance, quiet unwind, consistent cling and consistent film thickness. Cast stretch film products: Hand & Machine rolls can be cast or blown film.

Blown Stretch Film 
Manufactured using the blown film extrusion process and also referred to as blown film. Typical blown strecth film characteristics are: poor optics, hazy, dull, excellent puncture resistance, very noisy unwind and high force on load.

Hand Stretch film 
Stretch film designed specifically to be applied manually is referred to as hand stretch film. It is also referred to as hand film, hand stretch wrap, hand wrap or manual pallet wrap. It is typically utilized in lower capacity packaging operations. However the efficiency of manual stretch wrap packaging should be regularly re-evaluated against potential benefits of upgrading to a machine wrapper. Choosing the right stretch applicator will result in more efficient and cost effective packaging operations.

Machine Stretch film 
Stretch film designed to be applied with a stretch wrap machine is referred as machine stretch film. It provides many advantages over hand film including: faster and more efficient packaging, reduced packaging material costs, safer application, more secure loads and more. Common machine stretch film types: cast machine stretch film, blown machine film and prestretched films.

Prestretch films 
Prestretched film is film that is stretched before wrapping a load. Prestretch film benefits include:

Specialty Stretch film 
Specialty stretch films are designed to answer very specific packaging needs that more general purpose stretch packaging solutions cannot accommodate. A small sample of some specialty stretch packaging films are below, each are linked to a product details page.

• UVI Stretch Wrap – UV Ray reisistance
• Tinted Wrap – Protect valuable items
• Vented Pallet Wrap
• Wide Web Wrap
• Pallet Covers
• Anti-Static
• Hi Performance Film

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