http://www.eatoninsuranceservices.com/blog/View Eaton Insurance Services's Website Blogen-uspostmaster@www.eatoninsuranceservices.comInsurance Website Builder - www.insurancewebsitebuilder.comurn:uuid:e95a2428-b2a8-4195-96b9-0717e8a82e4eurn:uuid:9ef23ce7-6bf1-4d1b-9c37-9b2864b64028&nbsp; Consumers will likely turn to alternative heating sources again this winter to heat their homes. Renewed interest in wood pellet stoves, space heaters, fireplaces and other devices can be expected as temperatures drop. With that in mind, the I...Mon, 16 Jan 2012 11:49:39 -0600<p style="text-align: left;">&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>Consumers will likely turn to alternative heating sources again this winter to heat their homes. Renewed interest in wood pellet stoves, space heaters, fireplaces and other devices can be expected as temperatures drop. With that in mind, the Institute for Business &amp; Home Safety offers the following safety information.</strong></p> <strong>Alternative Heating Sources<br /> </strong> <p style="text-align: left;">&nbsp;</p> <b> <p style="text-align: center;">Consumers will likely turn to alternative heating sources again this winter to heat their homes. Renewed interest in wood pellet stoves, space heaters, fireplaces and other devices can be expected as temperatures drop. With that in mind, the Institute for Business &amp; Home Safety offers the following safety information.</p> <p>USE CAUTION </p> </b> <p>Before using any heating device, install carbon monoxide detectors in several parts of the house. Never use a kerosene heater indoors. </p> <b> <p>STOVE PLACEMENT </p> </b> <p>Alternate Heating Stoves can vary in construction regarding self-contained insulation and thermal protection. Thus a single layer iron-walled stove can generate enormous heat several feet in all directions. More sophisticated multiple walled insulated forced air stoves can remain safe to the touch when in use. Except where specifically recommended by the manufacturer, only the fuel (e.g., pellets, corn, log wood, coal or gas) for which a stove is designed should be used. </p> <p>Placement of the stove must take into consideration adequate space for installation, maintenance and replacement, flue or vent pipe routing and most importantly, safe location relative to combustible materials. NFPA recognizes appropriate ANSI and UL standards and testing of the reduction of heat with distance from the unit as well as non-combustible shielding (defined in codes). Properly tested and rated stoves will have an attached safety label and an installation manual which will detail the manufacturer&sbquo; recommended minimum separations. Some general guidelines are provided for different types of stoves in the following sections for cases when labels are missing. </p> <p>In most cases, protection of the floor or combustible surface under a stove is required and specified including shielding beneath and extending on all sides in accordance with the code and label requirements. This includes adequate protection in front of the fire box and where ash removal is required. </p> <p>Standards also exist for locating and routing flue and vent pipes in order to provide separation from combustibles adjacent to and through walls and to existing chimneys. </p> <b> <p>PELLET STOVES </p> </b> <p>These modern devices operate through an automated fuel-delivery process. In some designs, a fan delivers air to the fire and blows exhaust by-products out of a vent pipe that is smaller and typically less expensive than a chimney. Often, a separate fan blows air through heat exchangers in the stove and out into the home. </p> <dir><dir> <p>&bull; Always hire an installer who is licensed and certified. </p> <p>&bull; Stove placement must allow for access to proper venting and electrical sources and must meet minimum required clearances. Certified installers operate according to these guidelines. </p> <p>&bull; Outlets must be checked for proper voltage, grounding and polarity. </p> <p>&bull; According to model building codes, multiple walled insulated forced air stoves within compartments or alcoves should have a minimum of 3 inches of working space clearance along the sides, back and top with a total width of the enclosing space being at least 12 inches wider than the stove. </p> <p>&bull; Stoves having a firebox open to the atmosphere should have at least a 6-inch working space along the front combustion chamber side. </p> <p>&bull; Keep the stove clear of all combustible materials. </p> <p>&bull; Use PL vent pipes tested to Underwriters Laboratories (UL) 641. </p> <p>&bull; The following materials should never be used to vent pellet appliances: </p> <p>&bull; Dryer vent Gas appliance Type B vent PVC pipe Single-wall stove pipe, unless approved by local codes and the installation manual </p> <p>&bull; Inspect chimney before installation. Relining may be required. </p> <p>&bull; Altitudes higher than 2,500 feet may require special venting options. </p> <p>&bull; An outside air source may be required for houses with tight construction or strong kitchen, bath or other exhaust fans. </p> <p>&bull; Manufacturer instructions must be closely followed regarding sealing joints and seams, particularly of pressurized mechanical exhaust vents. </p> <p>&bull; Regular maintenance is critical to ensure safe operation. </p> <p>&bull; Frequency of cleaning will depend on the fuel type, grade and content. </p> <p>&bull; Components should be inspected daily. </p> </dir></dir><b> <p>WOOD STOVES </p> </b> <p>These traditional heat sources remain popular, but have been linked to an increase in house and chimney fires. </p> <dir><dir> <p>&bull; Choose a stove that has been tested by Underwriters Laboratories (UL). </p> <p>&bull; Second-hand stoves should be free of broken parts or cracks. </p> <p>&bull; Maintain at least a 36-inch clearance between the stove and combustible materials or use fire-resistant materials to protect woodwork and other areas. Follow manufacturer guidelines. </p> <p>&bull; Keep the stove clear of combustible materials. </p> <p>&bull; Noncombustible floor covering should be used under and around the stove. The material should extend 18 inches on all sides. </p> <p>&bull; Prior to using the stove, place a layer of sand or firebrick in the bottom of the firebox. </p> <p>&bull; Vent pipes or chimneys must be inspected prior to use. </p> </dir></dir> <p>If a stove pipe is used: </p> <dir><dir> <p>&bull; Use 22or 24-gauge metal with a total length of less than 10 feet. </p> <p>&bull; Maintain at least 18 inches between the top of the stove pipe and the ceiling or other combustible material. </p> <p>&bull; Ensure that the stove pipe enters the chimney at a spot higher than the outlet of the stove firebox and that it does not extend into the chimney flue lining. </p> <p>&bull; The inside thimble diameter should be the same size as the stove pipe for a proper seal. </p> <p>&bull; The stove pipe should not pass through a floor, closet, concealed space or enter the chimney in the attic. </p> </dir></dir> <p>Whether masonry or metal, the chimney should extend: </p> <dir><dir> <p>&bull; At least 3 feet above the highest point where it passes through the roof and at least 2 feet above any portion of the building within 10 horizontal feet of the chimney. </p> </dir></dir> <p>The chimney flue lining should not be blocked. </p> <dir><dir> <p>&bull; Keep the chimney flue and stove pipe clean and free of obstructions. </p> </dir></dir><b> <p>SPACE HEATERS </p> </b> <p>These appliances can be an affordable option for heating a small space, but they also are the leading source of house fires during winter months. </p> <dir><dir> <p>&bull; Look for products that have been tested by UL. </p> <p>&bull; Buy a model with an automatic shutoff feature and heat element guards. </p> <p>&bull; Maintain a 36-inch clearance between the heater and combustible materials, such as bedding, furniture, wall coverings or other flammable items. </p> <p>&bull; Do not leave a heater unattended. </p> </dir></dir> <p>Electric heaters should be inspected prior to use. </p> <dir><dir> <p>&bull; Check the cord for fraying, cracking and look for broken wires or signs of overheating in the device itself. </p> <p>&bull; Use only heavy-duty extension cords marked with a No. 14gauge or larger wire. </p> <p>&bull; If the heater plug has a grounding prong, use only a grounding (three-wire) extension cord. </p> <p>&bull; Never run the heater cord (or any cord) under rugs or carpeting. </p> </dir></dir> <p>Liquid-fueled heaters must be operated using only the fuel recommended by the manufacturer. </p> <dir><dir> <p>&bull; Never use gasoline or any other substitute fuel. </p> <p>&bull; Allow the heater to cool down prior to refueling. </p> <p>&bull; For additional information, visit www.oilheatamerica.com. </p> </dir></dir><b> <p>FIREPLACE </p> <dir><dir> <p>&bull; This popular heat source is found in homes throughout the United States, but requires proper maintenance and caution to ensure safe operation. </p> <p>&bull; Annual inspections are required by a professional chimney sweep. </p> <p>&bull; Regular cleaning will keep the fireplace free of obstructions and creosote. </p> <p>&bull; Have a removable cap installed at the top of the chimney to keep out debris and animals. </p> <p>&bull; Install a spark arrestor that has 1/4 inch mesh. </p> <p>&bull; Maintain proper clearance around the fireplace and keep it clear of combustible materials such as books, newspapers and furniture. </p> <p>&bull; Always close the screen when in use. </p> <p>&bull; Keep glass doors open during the fire. </p> <p>&bull; Use a fireplace grate. </p> <p>&bull; Approved fireplace tools are recommended. </p> <p>&bull; Never burn garbage, rolled newspapers, charcoal or plastic in the fireplace. </p> <p>&bull; Avoid using gasoline or any liquid accelerant. </p> <p>&bull; Clean out ashes from previous fires and store them in a noncombustible container with a tight-fitting lid. Keep the container outside and away from the house. </p> <p>&bull; Never leave a fire unattended. </p> <p>&bull; Make sure the fire is completely out before closing the damper. </p> </dir></dir></b> <p>Gas fireplaces require specific maintenance: </p> <dir><dir> <p>&bull; Adjust the milli-volt output. </p> <p>&bull; Keep the glowing embers and logs clean. </p> <p>&bull; Inspect and clean the air circulation passages and fan. </p> <p>&bull; Clean the glass as needed. Avoid obstructing the vents. </p> </dir></dir> <p>&copy; 2011 Institute for Business &amp; Home Safety </p>urn:uuid:95f14ec3-aa22-4182-95c5-8a1e6a9b7a31Roof Mounted Equipment Maintenance Benefits of Properly Maintaining Roof-Mounted Equipment Roof damage is a major source of property loss each year when buildings are subjected to high winds, wind-driven rain, hail, ice and snow, and wildfire. A ...Mon, 16 Jan 2012 11:36:34 -0600<h1>Roof Mounted Equipment Maintenance</h1> <h2></h2> <div class="news_article normal" id="news_article_roof_mounted_equipment_maintenance_5334" alt="null"> <div class="html normal" id="html_roof_mounted_equipment_maintenance_article_april_2011_-_text_5333" alt="null"> <p><strong>Benefits of Properly Maintaining Roof-Mounted Equipment </strong></p> <p class="Default">Roof damage is a major source of property loss each year when buildings are subjected to high winds, wind-driven rain, hail, ice and snow, and wildfire. A compromised roof can lead to significant damage to internal fixtures, furniture, and equipment. What&rsquo;s more rooftop equipment or pieces of the roof itself can take flight during a windstorm, causing damage to the building, nearby vehicles or even neighboring property. Proper attention to all aspects of a roof can make the difference between minimal damage and catastrophic failure during high winds. To help business owners tackle roof issues, IBHS has produced a <a href="http://www.disastersafety.org/commercial/reports">series of short papers on the installation, maintenance and repair of commercial roofs</a>.</p> <p>The focus here is on roof-mounted equipment, such as HVAC, photovoltaic systems, exhaust fans, and other mechanical units, all of which are common features on many commercial rooftops. Proper maintenance of this equipment leads to long-term savings by prolonging the life of the equipment, lowering utility bills and affording greater protection in a storm.</p> <p><strong>Energy Efficiency</strong></p> <p>Proper ventilation of roof-mounted air conditioners and air makeup units means greater energy efficiency, which leads to lower electric bills, a smaller carbon footprint and a more comfortable indoor climate for the building&rsquo;s occupants. Clogged and soiled air filters can reduce air flow and affect the unit&rsquo;s heating and cooling abilities. Poor ventilation also requires the unit to run for longer intervals, causing greater wear and tear on the motors and leading to a shorter operating lifetime.</p> <p><strong>Steps business owners can take:</strong></p> <ul> <li>Replace the air filter in accordance with the manufacturer&rsquo;s guidelines. This is an easy and cost- effective way to help maintain a ventilation system&rsquo;s efficiency.</li> </ul> <p><strong>Keeping Parts in Good Working Order</strong></p> <p>Motors, bearings and belts should be well maintained in accordance with the manufacturer&rsquo;s maintenance guidelines to ensure proper operation of rooftop units. This will help prolong the life of the unit and prevent breakdowns, which can have cascading effects on many aspects of business operations.</p> <p><strong>Steps business owners can take:</strong></p> <ul> <li>Keep motor and fan bearings well lubricated. </li> <li>Ensure that rubber belts have the proper tension. Belts that slip will emit a high pitched whining sound similar to an automobile&rsquo;s belt slipping. </li> <li>Watch for signs that rubber belts have become brittle and cracked. Remember, belts have a limited lifespan and should be inspected and replaced when directed by the manufacturer or upon signs of deterioration.</li> </ul> <p><strong>The Importance of Balance</strong></p> <p>Fan blades operate most effectively when they are well balanced. When the blades are unbalanced, the unit will vibrate and this may cause screws and other parts to loosen. An unbalanced fan reduces efficiency and compromises the unit&rsquo;s secure attachment.</p> <p><strong>Steps business owners can take:</strong></p> <ul> <li>The greater the imbalance: the greater the vibration. This vibration may become obvious on smaller sized units but should be part of regular inspections. </li> <li>When a roof top unit begins to vibrate and shake, contact a reliable contractor to correct problems that may cause the fans to be unbalanced.</li> </ul> <p><strong><br /> Exterior Maintenance and Secure Attachment</strong></p> <p>Because rooftop equipment is exposed to all weather elements, it is vital to maintain the unit&rsquo;s exterior and make sure it is securely attached. Corrosion and deterioration are the most common problems and can allow panels or other parts to become airborne in the event of high winds.<br /> <br /> <strong>Steps business owners can take:</strong></p> <ul> <li>Inspect for rusted metal panels, screws and metal flashing on curbs, and replace as soon as possible. </li> <li>Inspect around the unit&rsquo;s connection to the curb it sits on. Check for any visible signs of potential leaks; these can be repaired using various roof sealants and caulks that are readily available. </li> <li>If it is suspected that a water leak has occurred, the curbing itself should be inspected for rotting and replaced if needed.</li> </ul> <p><strong>Check and Recheck</strong></p> <p>While a local contractor or maintenance worker can perform most of the inspections and repairs that are necessary to keep rooftop equipment in good working order, it is important to inspect the equipment after the work is done to make sure all screws, cables, and cable straps are tightened and back in place. Failure to correctly reinstall screws and cables can compromise the unit&rsquo;s overall structural integrity and leave it vulnerable to potential damage during a windstorm. For example, the panels can tear away and skip across the roof cover. This creates water leaks and, in some cases, causes the roof cover to fail.</p> <p><strong>Steps business owners can take:</strong></p> <ul> <li>Remind the contractor that you will not consider the job done until all parts of the unit are back in place and properly secured and all debris is removed. </li> <li>At the conclusion of rooftop equipment repair, have maintenance staff inspect the unit to make sure that screws, cables and cable straps are tightened and reconnected. </li> <li>Check the roof for miscellaneous debris, as well as tools that may have been left behind. Anything that is not firmly attached to the roof can become windborne debris in the event of a storm.</li> </ul> <p><strong>Future IBHS Research</strong></p> <p>Commercial roofs and rooftop equipment are a top priority for the research agenda at the IBHS Research Center in Chester County, South Carolina. Testing at the lab will involve rooftop equipment, with a specific focus on wind load specifications and prescriptive guidelines for anchorage. Additionally, IBHS hopes to test photovoltaic equipment on both commercial and residential roofs to make sure that the goal of &ldquo;going green&rdquo; is consistent with &ldquo;staying strong.&rdquo;&nbsp;</p> <p>The overall approach will be to fabricate a series of objects that represent typical shapes of rooftop equipment, mount them on force balances that would allow IBHS to measure lateral loads, and subject them to high force winds. The results of these tests will help in the future design and anchorage of commercial rooftop equipment.</p> <p>While this research holds promise for improving future designs and installation techniques, there still is no substitute for the preventive maintenance and proper care of roof-mounted equipment. Following the essential steps outlined above can reduce utility costs, enhance longevity, help reduce expensive repairs, and prevent serious damage to your business and your bottom line.</p> <p>For additional information about maintaining commercial properties, visit <a href="http://www.disastersafety.org/">www.DisasterSafety.org</a>.</p> <br /> <br /> <p><em>Published April 2011</em></p> </div> </div>urn:uuid:eeb3f2d0-2609-451c-b1c7-143aa043a001Every Business Should Consider a Risk and Vulnerability Assessment What risks truly threaten your organization? How will a business interruption impact your business functions? Will your business be able to recover and reopen once the disruption o...Mon, 16 Jan 2012 11:30:40 -0600<h1>Every Business Should Consider a Risk and Vulnerability Assessment</h1> <h2></h2> <div class="news_article normal" id="news_article_every_business_should_consider_a_risk_and_vulnerability_assessment_6683" alt="null"> <div class="text normal" id="text_every_business_should_consider_a_risk_and_vulnerability_assessment_6682" alt="null"> <p>What risks truly threaten your organization? How will a business interruption impact your business functions? Will your business be able to recover and reopen once the disruption or disaster passes? These are the questions every small to mid-sized business owner should be asking and then seeking to answer.</p> <br /> <br /> <p>One in four small businesses that close due to a disaster will never reopen. Anecdotally, the statistics are probably higher. Most surveys just cover the first two years after a disaster, and some businesses that do hang on only last two to five years before they give up. However, there are ways to take control of the risks facing your business and avoid becoming a statistic. Creating a preparedness plan, practicing that plan, and putting it into action when the unexpected happens are important steps toward having less damage and shorter interruptions when an event does occur.</p> <br /> <br /> <p>Creating a business continuity plan that is as unique as your operation is critical because how potential threats will impact your organization may be very different from how another business handles its risks. The plan should take into account your location, industry, company culture, organizational structure, management style, work functions, and even key business objectives. All of these can affect how an organization chooses to protect itself from the threat of a business interruption and how it will respond and recover.</p> <br /> <br /> <p>Recognizing that there is no &ldquo;one size fits all&rdquo; approach, the starting point for most businesses to plan for a disaster is completing a Risk and Vulnerability Assessment. This is the process of identifying, quantifying and documenting the probability and overall severity of various types of threats or hazards (e.g. natural or political events, human, technological or security factors, accidents or the loss of key personnel) that could damage your facility and cause a disruption in your business.</p> <p><strong>&nbsp;</strong></p> <h2><strong>WHAT ARE THE COMPONENTS OF A RISK &amp; VULNERABILITY ASSESSMENT? </strong></h2> <p>There are three basic components of a Risk and Vulnerability Assessment:</p> <p><strong>&nbsp;</strong></p> <p><strong>RISK ASSESSMENT</strong></p> <p>Identify the possible natural and manmade hazards, rank their probability and potential severity, then review the collected results to identify the most likely events that could happen. The two biggest mistakes that many businesses make are (1) failing to identify a potential hazard, and (2) underestimating the severity of a known potential hazard. For a list of natural hazards that may affect your business&rsquo; location, visit the Insurance Institute for Business &amp; Home Safety&rsquo;s (IBHS) website, enter your ZIP Code in the box on the map to identify regional natural hazards in your area, and generate a customized list of projects that can address property risks. You should also consider damage to infrastructure (e.g. roads, bridges, electric power, etc.) that could affect your ability to resume operations, and possible workarounds to expedite recovery.</p> <br /> <br /> <p><strong>RECOVERY PRIORITY ANALYSIS</strong></p> <p>Define the recovery priorities of your critical business functions through a more detailed analysis of recovery timeframes and analyze how those threats might impact your organization. In addition to your organization&rsquo;s critical business functions, you should identify your facility&rsquo;s structural and interior vulnerabilities. Taking precautions and making the necessary improvements will result in a more secure building and less business disruption.</p> <br /> <br /> <p><strong>ASSESSING THE VULNERABILITY</strong></p> <p>Combine the results of the Risk Assessment and the Recovery Priority Analysis and determine what strategies are necessary to avoid the risk altogether, reduce the possibility of loss, accept the risk and live with it, or transfer your risk to another party through the purchase of insurance or outsourcing of certain tasks. This is the first step in developing a plan to address each major threat to your business and expediting recovery after an event.</p> <p><strong>&nbsp;</strong></p> <h3><strong>WEATHER IS JUST ONE ELEMENT OF RISK</strong></h3> <p>For small to mid-sized businesses, a disaster is an event that disrupts business to the point that financial and operational consequences become unsustainable. Events come in all forms and are not necessarily weather related. Sometimes the event is man-made through deliberate or accidental causes, the result of a technological failure, pandemic flu or high absenteeism, or something as simple as a burst water pipe or disruptive as a power outage. Regardless of the cause, a loss is a loss and the outcomes can be severe enough to force a business closure.</p> <p><strong>&nbsp;</strong></p> <h3><strong>WHERE/HOW DO I START?</strong></h3> <p>Once you have identified the risks and vulnerabilities facing your business, the next step is to seek out the appropriate protective and mitigation measures specific to each type of interruption.</p> <br /> <br /> <p>Get started with the IBHS <a href="http://www.disastersafety.org/ofbInfo?execution=e2s1&amp;type=ofb_basic">Open for Business&reg;</a> toolkit, a free program to help small to mid-sized businesses develop a business continuity and property protection plan.</p> <br /> <br /> <p>Using the tools provided by Open for Business&reg;, business owners can begin the process to become more ready to keep their doors open following any form of disaster, reduce their potential for loss, and recover more quickly should the worst happen. Regardless of the cause of the business interruption, the ability to assess what needs to happen (and when) could be the difference between survival and closure.</p> <br /> <br /> <p>The IBHS program offers worksheets and online training tools to help simplify the process. One of the advantages of using Open for Business&reg; is the guidance to identify critical functions that might not appear obvious because they are completed daily without much thought. Deciding who could complete these functions if a key employee is absent, if a vital supplier is unavailable or if technology is not functioning before the decision is real will lead to a more prepared workforce.</p> <br /> <br /> <p>The following is a sample Risk and Vulnerability Analysis that is included in the Open for Business&reg; Basic Trainer Series (Session 4: Developing Continuity Plans). The analysis is further explained in the Open for Business&reg; Advanced Track, which also is available through a free <a href="http://www.disastersafety.org/content/data/file/Vulnerability-Assessment.pdf">DOWNLOAD</a>&nbsp;from the IBHS website. It is a good starting point for any business owner who wants to understand the eight general areas of potential threats or risks.</p> <br /> <br /> <p><strong>NATURAL</strong></p> <ul> <p>&nbsp;</p> <li>Earthquake </li> <li>Tornado/Wind </li> <li>Hurricanes </li> <li>Floods </li> <li>Volcanic Eruptions </li> <li>Severe Weather </li> <li>Wildfire </li> <p>&nbsp;</p> </ul> <p><strong>POLITICAL</strong></p> <ul> <p>&nbsp;</p> <li>Strikes </li> <li>Riots </li> <li>Civil Disturbances </li> <li>Bomb Threat </li> <li>Biological Threat </li> <li>Nuclear Threat </li> <li>Acts of War</li> <p>&nbsp;</p> </ul> <p><strong>HUMAN CAUSED</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <ul> <li>Sabotage </li> <li>Product Tampering </li> <li>Scandal </li> <li>Workplace Violence </li> <li>Kidnapping/Extortion </li> <li>Sexual Harassment </li> <li>Fraud/Embezzlement </li> <li>Terrorist Attack </li> </ul> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>TECHNOLOGICAL</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <ul> <li>Software Failure </li> <li>Hardware Failure </li> <li>Power Outage </li> <li>Data Corruption </li> <li>Synchronization Error </li> <li>Cooling System Failure </li> <li>Wiring and Cables </li> <li>Mechanical Systems </li> </ul> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>SECURITY</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <ul> <li>Privacy </li> <li>Viruses </li> <li>Hackers </li> <li>Data Theft </li> <li>Counterfeiters </li> </ul> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>ACCIDENTS</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <ul> <li>Human Error </li> <li>Fires/Explosions </li> <li>Water Damage </li> <li>Building Collapse </li> <li>Environmental Contamination </li> </ul> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>LOSS OF:</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <ul> <li>Key Employee </li> <li>Senior Leader </li> <li>Subject Matter Expert</li> </ul> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>NEWER THREATS</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <ul> <li>Pandemics </li> <li>Water Shortage </li> <li>Media Crisis </li> <li>Mismanagement </li> <li>Product Liability </li> <li>Globalization </li> <li>Virtualization </li> </ul> <p>&nbsp;</p> </div> </div>urn:uuid:408b956b-a733-4277-a7a9-23d13d1b54dd&nbsp; As of 1995, OSHA has required residential contractors working at a height of six feet or more to be protected with conventional fall protection systems such as guardrails, safety nets or personal fall arrest gear. Effective last June 16, 2011...Wed, 17 Aug 2011 15:53:30 -0500<p style="text-align: left;">&nbsp;</p> <p>As of 1995, OSHA has required residential contractors working at a height of six feet or more to be protected with </p> <p>conventional fall protection systems such as guardrails, safety nets or personal fall arrest gear.</p> <p>Effective last June 16, 2011 key changes for residential contractors included the following:</p> <p>&bull; Employers are required to adhere to 29 CFR 1926 Subpart M Fall Protection Regulations.</p> <p>&bull; Employers are required to demonstrate how conventional fall protections systems are infeasible or if the systems will create a more a hazardous situation utilizing alternative fall protection measures and a fall protection plan.</p> <p>&bull; Employers have the requirement to implement a fall protection plan.</p> <p>&bull; A qualified person (extensive experience or equivalent education) must now develop a written and site-specific fall </p> <p>protection plan whenever alternative fall protection measures are utilized.</p> <p>&bull; A single written fall protection plan can be drafted for repetitive use if the plan fully addresses all regarding issues regarding fall protection at each site.</p> <p>&bull; Residential construction is defined as the end use of the structure being built is a home/dwelling and it is constructed utilizing traditional wood frame construction materials and methods.</p> <p>&bull; Slide guards are no longer permitted to be utilized instead of conventional fall protection methods when roofing work is conducted &ndash; Slide guards may be used as part of a written, site-specific fall protection plan that meets the </p> <p>requirements of 29 CFR 1926.502(k) if it can be demonstrated that conventional fall protection is infeasible or creates a greater hazard.</p> <p>&bull; When roofing is conducted on low-slope roofs (4 in 12 pitch or less), safety monitoring systems can be utilized along with a warning line system that protects those workers on roof &ndash; If the same roof is 50 feet or less wide, the safety </p> <p>monitor system can used by itself without the warning line system. The safety monitor system must meet all </p> <p>requirements outlined in 29 CFR 1926.502(h).</p> <p>Additional information on this topic can be accessed through the following web sites:</p> <span style="text-decoration: underline;"> <p>www.nahb.org/fall protection - National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) </p> <p>www.osha.gov/doc/residential/-fall-protection.html - OSHA Residential Fall Protection</p> <p>www.builderbooks.com/safety - NAHB&rsquo;s Builder Books</p> </span>urn:uuid:5d9c358d-2c17-4e75-9741-689a3df922d5&nbsp; Driver Fatigue A fatigued driver is a dangerous driver. Each year, thousands of accidents occur as a result of a driver losing focus from being tired or falling asleep behind the wheel. Statistics indicate most accidents occur between 2 and...Wed, 03 Aug 2011 16:25:49 -0500<p style="text-align: left;">&nbsp;</p> <b> <p>Driver Fatigue </p> </b> <p>A fatigued driver is a dangerous driver. Each year, thousands of accidents occur as a result of a driver losing focus from being tired or falling asleep behind the wheel. Statistics indicate most accidents occur between 2 and 6 a.m. Unfortunately, drivers often do not recognize losing focus on the road or that they are tired. Common symptoms of driver fatigue include swerving while driving, heavy eyelids, yawning, varying speeds when there is no change in speed limit, and even "seeing things" that are actually not there on the road. Below are several tips you can follow to avoid causing a tragic accident while driving your vehicle:</p> <p>&bull; Do not be afraid to pull over in a rest area, truck stop, or a public parking lot to rest. Avoid resting more than 30 minutes, as long </p> <p>periods of rest can make you feel groggy. If you feel like you need more sleep, check into a motel or hotel and get a normal night rest.</p> <p>&bull; If you are taking a long trip, plan ahead for stops at hotels or motels. Give yourself enough time to rest at these stops. If driving with others on a long trip, take turns driving and get some rest during the time you are not driving.</p> <p>&bull; Taking a break and stopping for food at a sit-down restaurant can be beneficial, but avoid eating a lot of heavy foods if you&rsquo;re driving long distances. Eating heavy foods can cause fatigue.</p> <p>&bull; Get a good night&rsquo;s rest before driving. This is especially important if you are taking any long trips. Driving without adequate sleep is dangerous.</p> <p>&bull; Take breaks frequently from driving. It is recommended that drivers rest at least once every two hours of driving.</p> <p>&bull; If you are taking any medicine, be aware of the side effects. Many medicines often come with warnings of drowsiness and fatigue. Consumers of these medicines should not be driving after consumption.</p> <p>&bull; Avoid alcohol consumption if you plan on driving. Not only does alcohol impair your judgment, it leads to drowsiness.</p> <p>&bull; Keep the interior of the automobile cool and well ventilated. Opening the windows is a good way to help keep the driver focused. Music is also a great way to keep a driver from getting tired. Avoid playing light music. </p> <p>&bull; Driving at night is much more hazardous than driving in the day. If you plan on driving a long distance, start the journey early in the morning. </p> <p>Don&rsquo;t be one of the thousands of Americans each year involved in an accident caused by driver fatigue. While driving, avoid being in a rush to reach your final destination. It is much more important to focus on the safety of passengers in the vehicle, mainly children. Passengers can be beneficial to drivers by chatting with them while driving. If you find yourself staring at the white line for too long while driving, don&rsquo;t be afraid to pull over. Using the tips provided can and will drastically decrease the chances of the driver becoming fatigued. </p>urn:uuid:fbbf9572-6708-4dcd-8c34-daaf881fd92d&nbsp; Cell Phone Best Practices Cell phones have become a very important part of living throughout the past several years. They are used for business transactions, emails, texting, staying in touch with family members, and for leisure activities suc...Mon, 25 Jul 2011 12:38:50 -0500<p style="text-align: left;">&nbsp;</p> <p><b>Cell Phone Best Practices</b></p> <p>Cell phones have become a very important part of living throughout the past several years. They are used for business transactions, emails, texting, staying in touch with family members, and for leisure activities such as surfing the internet, to name a few. Parents are purchasing cell phones for their children at younger ages than ever. Laws have even been instituted, restricting usage in certain places. </p> <p>We often forget about the dangers associated when using a cell phone. Here are a few safety tips to follow:</p> <p>&bull; <b><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Avoid text messaging while driving </span></b>- Not only is texting while driving illegal in many states, it has also been identified as a leading cause of traffic accidents during the past several years. If you receive a text while driving, simply pull off the road when safe to do so to respond to the message.</p> <p>&bull; <b><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Avoid talking on your cell phone while driving </span></b>- Pulling over at a rest stop or into a parking lot to talk on the phone is advised. </p> <p>If you need to talk on the phone while driving, using a Bluetooth device can significantly reduce the likelihood of an accident. Talking in areas with less traffic is a better alternative than talking in congested areas.</p> <p>&bull; <b><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Use cell phones in appropriate places </span></b>- Laws prohibit cell phone usage on airplanes and while pumping gas. Most schools do not allow cell phone usage on the premises by students. Make sure that your children are not bringing their cell phones to school. </p> <p>&bull; <b><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Keep cell phones away from your body when in use </span></b>- Some recent reports suggest cell phones can cause cancer due to a </p> <p>non-ionizing radiation being released while the phone is transmitting any data. Scientists recommend keeping cell phones at least </p> <p>1- inch away from the body to avoid this radiation from coming into contact with any body parts. </p> <p>&bull; <b><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Keep a battery charger in the car, as well as in your home </span></b>- Cell phones are great to have on hand in case of an emergency, but are not helpful if the battery is dead! Keeping a charger in your car and in your home will help ensure you don&rsquo;t run into dead battery problems. </p> <p>Choosing the right cell phone and provider can often be a very difficult process. Some things to take into consideration when </p> <p>purchasing a cell phone include the pricing, the service plan price and features, area coverage and reception, and if a contract is required. Make sure that the plan you choose suits your needs appropriately and is within your budget prior to signing any contracts. Take the time to shop and discuss your needs with several providers.</p>urn:uuid:41e595f7-12e3-4c05-bb3c-aef4532e4a0b&nbsp; Texting While Driving - A Dangerous Activity Someone you know just sent you a text message. Maybe your boss wants the latest numbers, or a friend wants to set up a place to meet after work. Traffic is flowing smoothly, and you know it would ta...Thu, 21 Jul 2011 15:01:36 -0500<p style="text-align: left;">&nbsp;</p> <p><b>Texting While Driving - A Dangerous Activity</b></p> <p>Someone you know just sent you a text message. Maybe your boss wants the latest numbers, or a friend wants to set up a place to meet after work. Traffic is flowing smoothly, and you know it would take less than a second to type a response &ndash; so you do. But while you are focused on your cell phone, the car in front of you suddenly stops and you crash into them. Your life is now changed forever.</p> <p>Let&rsquo;s face it; we can&rsquo;t bear to be out of contact with friends, family, or those at work. Therefore, each of us is taking part in an incredibly distracting practice when we text and drive diverting at least one hand, and both eyes, from the road. So, we pose the question, have you ever sent or read a text message while driving? If you have, you&rsquo;re not alone. Last year more than one trillion texts were sent and that number is expected to increase. </p> <p>Our lawmakers are taking action with the enactment of recent legislation. By law if you&rsquo;re a Federal employee you cannot text while operating a government vehicle. Employers are asking their HR departments to &lsquo;update&rsquo; their </p> <p>employee handbooks to include specific language that bans employees from using company and personal cell phones and texting devices while driving company vehicles. Furthermore, several states recently have passed laws banning you from texting while driving any vehicle. </p> <b> <p>Things to consider when you feel that urge to text while you&rsquo;re driving: </p> </b> <p>&bull; You are 23 times more likely to get into a car accident if you text while driving.</p> <p>&bull; Your reaction times are slowed by 35% when you&rsquo;re writing or reading text messages.</p> <p>&bull; For every 6 seconds of drive time, when you&rsquo;re sending or receiving a text message you spend 4.6 of those seconds with your eyes off the road. </p> <p>&bull; Your steering control is worsened by 91% while texting while driving.</p> <p>&bull; When you are texting, it is harder for you to maintain a safe distance from other cars, and you drift in and out of your lane more often than those who have a blood alcohol level of 0.10. </p> <p>&bull; Texting while driving causes a 400% increase in time spent with your eyes off the road.</p> <p>Text messaging while driving can kill. It&rsquo;s that simple. Numerous studies show that texting and reading texts are like </p> <p>being drunk while driving, cutting down your reaction times and your overall ability to drive. While it may be hard to </p> <p>ignore the temptation to text and drive, doing so is extremely hazardous and the result can be life changing.</p>urn:uuid:2b277c8f-bf15-49c6-845a-d86906367403&nbsp; Grilling Safety Tips Peak grilling season is here, and for fans of summer there is nothing like grilling outside with family and friends. Great food, drink, and fun are associated with grilling, however, so are injuries and fires. According t...Thu, 21 Jul 2011 15:00:18 -0500<p style="text-align: left;">&nbsp;</p> <p><b>Grilling Safety Tips </b></p> <p>Peak grilling season is here, and for fans of summer there is nothing like grilling outside with family and friends. Great food, drink, and fun are associated with grilling, however, so are injuries and fires. According to the National Fire </p> <p>Protection Association 7,000 people are injured each year while grilling. Moreover, Fire Departments respond to more than 8,000 fires annually caused by grilling. And, a sobering fact is that as many as 20 people die each year from </p> <p>accidents associated with these activities. </p> <p>Both Propane and Charcoal are staples for our outdoor grilling. And, to promote safety, we offer the following tips to make sure your grilling experience is positive:</p> <p>&bull; Keep your grill at least 10 feet away from your home. The grill should be placed well away from deck railings, carports, shrubs, bushes, and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.</p> <p>&bull; Keep decorations such as hanging baskets, pillows, umbrellas, furniture away from your grilling area. These materials burn fast and hot. </p> <p>&bull; Keep children and pets away from your grilling area.</p> <p>&bull; Never leave your grill unattended. Plan ahead so that all of your other food prep chores are done and you can focus on grilling. </p> <p>&bull; Never grill indoors; this includes your garage. Grills release carbon monoxide, a deadly colorless, odorless gas. </p> <p>This gas needs to be vented outdoors or it can kill you, your family and pets. </p> <p>&bull; Keep your grill clean by removing grease or fat buildup from the grills and in trays below the grill. Grease is a major source of flare ups. </p> <p>&bull; Open the lid of your grill before turning on the gas or lighting your grill. Never turn on the gas while your grill lid is closed. </p> <p>&bull; Check for gas leaks before using your gas grill, check the connection between the propane cylinder and the fuel line </p> <p>to be sure it is working properly and not leaking. To do this make a solution of half liquid dish soap and half water and rubbing it on the hoses and connections. Then, turn the gas on (with the grill lid open.) If the soap forms large bubbles, that&rsquo;s a sign that the hoses have tiny holes or that the connections are not tight enough. If you smell gas while cooking, immediately get away from the grill and call 911.</p> <p>&bull; If you use a starter fluid for your charcoal grill, use only charcoal starter fluid. Never add charcoal fluid or any other </p> <p>flammable liquids to the fire.</p> <p>Outdoor grilling with propane and charcoal is a wonderful way to celebrate summer with family and friends. </p> <p>Whether your grilling activity is an elaborate affair for a few dozen friends and relatives or a simple cook-out for a few, a little planning will help prevent a fire or injury from occurring. Be mindful of these grilling safety tips as well as keep a spray bottle of water handy to control minor flare-ups. Frankenmuth Insurance and your independent insurance agent are with you all the way!</p>urn:uuid:fae12ef3-e673-400b-b9e1-cfdbba0b9341&nbsp; Sunburn Prevention Tips Landscaping, spending a day at the beach with the kids, and working on a roof are just a few of the activities we may participate in each summer. Spending a significant amount of time in the sun can lead to sunburn and...Thu, 21 Jul 2011 14:58:47 -0500<p style="text-align: left;">&nbsp;</p> <p><b>Sunburn Prevention Tips</b></p> <p>Landscaping, spending a day at the beach with the kids, and working on a roof are just a few of the activities we may participate in </p> <p>each summer. Spending a significant amount of time in the sun can lead to sunburn and dehydration. Sunburn is not only painful and </p> <p>irritating - it can also lead to peeling of the skin, blistering, and in worst cases, cancer. Preventing sunburn is actually easy and only takes a few minutes. </p> <p>Here are a few tips to follow for preventing sunburn:</p> <b> <p>&bull; <span style="text-decoration: underline;">Don&rsquo;t forget the sun tan lotion </span>- Sun tan lotion ranges from a sun protection factor (SPF) of two to 50+. The higher the SPF, the </p> </b>Sun tan lotion ranges from a sun protection factor (SPF) of two to 50+. The higher the SPF, the <p>better protection your skin will have from ultraviolet light. We recommend applying at least 15 SPF every 2 hours you spend in the sun. Re-apply more frequently if you are swimming or sweating a lot in the sun. Always remember, the more sun tan lotion you apply, the better the protection.</p> <b> <p>&bull; <span style="text-decoration: underline;">Apply lip balm with sunscreen </span>- Often times, we forget to apply any protection on our lips because sun tan lotion can&rsquo;t be used on them. Lip balm comes with a SPF as high as 50+ as well. </p> </b>- Often times, we forget to apply any protection on our lips because sun tan lotion can&rsquo;t be used on them. Lip balm comes with a SPF as high as 50+ as well. <b> <p>&bull; <span style="text-decoration: underline;">Wear a hat </span>- A hat not only protects your head from sunburn, it will also assist in blocking ultraviolet light from coming into contact with your nose, eyes, lips, and face. </p> </b>- A hat not only protects your head from sunburn, it will also assist in blocking ultraviolet light from coming into contact with your nose, eyes, lips, and face. <b> <p>&bull; <span style="text-decoration: underline;">If you are at the beach, bring a beach umbrella along </span>- A beach umbrella is a great place for children to play underneath and to take a break from the blistering sun. Beach umbrellas are available with coverings that block a certain amount of ultraviolet light. Make sure your umbrella has a covering rated for at least 15 SPF. </p> </b>- A beach umbrella is a great place for children to play underneath and to take a break from the blistering sun. Beach umbrellas are available with coverings that block a certain amount of ultraviolet light. Make sure your umbrella has a covering rated for at least 15 SPF. <b> <p>&bull; <span style="text-decoration: underline;">Sunglasses will protect your eyes </span>- Purchase sunglasses with an ultraviolet coating to afford the best protection for your eyes. </p> </b>- Purchase sunglasses with an ultraviolet coating to afford the best protection for your eyes. <p>Prolonged exposure to the sun can lead to corneal damage and cataract development at an earlier age. </p> <b> <p>&bull; <span style="text-decoration: underline;">Cotton shirts will provide some protection from the sun </span>- If you are not concerned with getting a tan, wear a loose fitting cotton shirt. The shirt will provide protection for your chest, shoulders, and back. </p> </b>- If you are not concerned with getting a tan, wear a loose fitting cotton shirt. The shirt will provide protection for your chest, shoulders, and back. <p>Sunburn does happen, and it is important you know what to do in these unfavorable situations. Applying a mixture of water and milk, or aloe vera, will sooth the pain. Taking ibuprofen or aspirin can help ease the pain as well. If you or someone you know is suffering from severe sunburn, have them see medical attention as soon as possible. Typical symptoms of severe sunburn include blisters, fevers, or nausea. Prolonged chronic exposure to the sun can lead to the development of moles that can be cancerous. If you find new moles developing on your skin, contact your physician. </p>urn:uuid:2be93b3b-4be2-45ba-bdee-0cc96dbe0992<img src='http://www.eatoninsuranceservices.com/img/~www.eatoninsuranceservices.com/Water%20in%20basement.jpg' align='left' /> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&n...Tue, 28 Jun 2011 12:18:15 -0500<blockquote style="margin-right: 0px;" dir="ltr"> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong><img alt="" src="/img/~www.eatoninsuranceservices.com/Water%20in%20basement.jpg" /><br /> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </strong><br /> Sping has spung and so have the water claims resulting from the rainy season. There is an old addage thats say's, "its always better to be pro-active instead of re-active because the impact is much softer". </p> </blockquote><blockquote style="margin-top: 5pt; margin-bottom: 5pt; margin-right: 0in;"> <ul style="list-style-type: disc;"> <li><strong><b>Have an annual inspection&nbsp;completed</b></strong>&nbsp; </li> <li><strong><b>Check the sump pump monthly by pouring a bucket of water into the crock</b></strong>&nbsp; </li> <li><strong><b>Install a battery operated&nbsp;alarm</b></strong> </li> <li><strong><b>Install a back up sump pump, water or battery powered (average cost is $350)</b></strong> </li> <li><strong><b>Schedule a pump replacement.&nbsp; Average pump life is 7 to 10 years.&nbsp;&nbsp;</b></strong> </li> <li><strong><b>Purchase a generator&nbsp;</b></strong> </li> <li><strong><b>Install a secondary pump&nbsp;if one is running all the time</b></strong> </li> <li><strong><b>Maintain the area&nbsp;surrounding the sump pump.&nbsp; It can get cluttered with laundry,&nbsp;debris, etc.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</b></strong> </li> <li><strong><b>Consult a plumber to inspect and advis</b></strong>e&nbsp; </li> </ul> <div> <p><strong><b><i>Please note that this list is not encompassing and policyholders should contact a professional for an individual risk evaluation.</i></b></strong><em><i>&nbsp;<br /> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</i></em></p> </div> </blockquote>