Safer Driving at Night

Driving at night

Go slower when you move from a lit to an unlit road. It takes time for your eyes to adjust.

At night it is harder to spot hazards and it is harder for others to spot you. If you don't take the darkness into consideration, you could kill someone. So remember... Check lights work before driving. Ask a friend to help you. Be the first to use lights

Lights should be used at dusk, dawn, in bad weather and on a gloomy day. Use dipped beam

In urban areas make sure you use dipped beam. Use full beam on other roads at night but "dip, don't dazzle" when there is someone in front or coming towards you. If you are dazzled, slow down and stop if necessary. Go more carefully

Drive at a speed that enables you to stop within the distance you can see. Look out

Keep your eyes open for pedestrians, cyclists and motorbike riders, particularly those who are not wearing bright clothing or do not have lights. Take extra care when driving past pubs, cinemas, theatres and clubs at closing time.

Safer Driving Weather

Coping with adverse weather

Sometimes you cannot tell if a road is wet or icy. In bad weather, imagine the worst.

Variable weather is a fact of life in the UK. Rain, fog, ice, snow, high winds and bright sunshine make driving harder. Failure to recognise this and take extra care causes deaths. Always... Listen to forecasts

Accept that sometimes it is not safe to go by road and make other arrangements.

Clear windows of condensation and ice

Never set off with just a peephole to peer through.

Use your lights

In bad weather use dipped beam. In fog, you must turn on your rear fog lights. Turn them off when you can see again.

You can see less

Go slow and keep back. Hanging on the taillights of the vehicle in front is not an option. In bright sunshine, use your visor.

Your brakes and tyres

Brakes and tyres are less effective on wet or icy roads - even in the best vehicles. Go slower and avoid sharp braking and steering. In the wet, leave at least double the normal safe distance between you and the vehicle in front. In the snow and ice, leave even more space.

Essential equipment

Check you are carrying washer fluid, glass cleaner, de-icer, cloths, ice scraper. In winter, check there is antifreeze in your radiator.

Safer Driving Secure

Secure yourself

If buying a car, ask about crash protection features such as air bags. Always wear protective gear.

The easiest way to improve your chances of survival in a crash is to belt up and properly secure children and luggage. The easiest way to improve the chances of drivers seeing you on a motorbike is to be visible. Do it. Belt up

Clunk-click every trip, in front and back. The diagonal strap must rest on your shoulder. Pregnant women must wear a belt (with the lap part over the thighs). Adjust headrests properly and avoid crippling whiplash

The centre of a headrest must be at eye level. Your seat must be as straight as possible so the headrest is just behind your head, ideally touching.

Fit child seats carefully

You must use one made for the child's size and weight, which is secured according to the instructions. It must be UN E-marked or BSI kite marked. For more information call your local council and ask to speak to your road safety officer.

Luggage must be secured

Secure luggage in a boot or make sure it is strapped down. An umbrella has the same power as a hammer in a 30mph collision. Motorcyclists must be visible

Your best crash protection is to be seen. Always ride with your lights on, day or night. Buy and wear a reflective yellow jacket with fluorescent strips.

Safer Driving Motorway

Motorway driving

Never try to mend a vehicle yourself - always wait.

Motorways are the safest roads in the UK. But when collisions happen, they are likely to result in deaths due to high speeds. The driving test does not require us to drive on the motorway. It is common to make the most basic mistakes. Therefore... Take more training

If you are in any doubt about your motorway skills why not seek further training.

Plan ahead

Make sure you know which junctions you need. Never check a map on the move. Obey speed limits

Including lower limits imposed due to congestion, weather or road works. Go slower

In bad weather, always use fog lights in fog. Don't try to keep up with the car ahead.

Leave a gap

Always ensure that there is at least two seconds between you and the car in front. Leave at least four seconds in bad weather.

Keep to the left lane

Unless overtaking, keep to the left.

Take a break

Every two hours, take a break for at least 15 minutes.

If you break down

Pull onto the hard shoulder and put on warning lights. Leave your vehicle from a left hand door. Call for help from an emergency phone which are approximately one mile apart and marked every hundred metres and wait on the verge.

Safer Driving Vehicle

Check your vehicle

Safe drivers deserve safe vehicles.

Dangerous vehicles kill. There are essential checks that everyone must carry out on their vehicle. Defects such as bald tyres, defective brakes and lights that don't work are common. The consequence is sometimes death and serious injury. So... Clean windows, mirrors, and lights

Carry washer fluid, glass cleaner, de-icer, and cloths, ice scraper. Replace windscreen wipers if worn.

Check lights work before driving

Ask a friend to help.

Check tyre pressures

When the tyres are cold check the pressures once a week. Your vehicle's handbook will tell you the right pressure. (Don't forget the spare!) If in doubt, consult a garage or tyre specialist.

Check tyre tread once a month

If you are a high mileage driver, check your tyre tread more frequently. Car tyres have 'tread wear indicator' bars, which are small ridges set into the main grooves. These indicate the legal minimum tread. If you cannot find them look for the letters TWI on your tyre wall or ask a garage. Change tyres before they reach this point. The legal minimum tread depth is 1.6mm for cars, but less than 3mm is risky in wet or icy weather. Also check for bulges and cracks.

Warning lights

After you start your vehicle warning lights should go off. If a light stays on, do not drive. Consult a garage. The annual "MOT"

This is a legal requirement for all vehicles except new ones. It is also important to service your vehicle according to the manufacturer's guidelines - it will retain its value better and ensure it is safe. Lorries and buses

Drivers of these vehicles should carry out additional daily checks and maintain their vehicles according to manufacturer recommendations.

Fire Extinguishers

We've all seen fire extinguishers in schools, public buildings, and even at people's homes. Fire extinguishers are excellent tools for putting out fires and saving lives, but many people don't know how to use them properly and effectively. It is important to know that there are different extinguishers for different types of fires, and how to handle an extinguisher. Read below and you will always be prepared in the event of a fire.

Fire Classification

Fires are classified by what type of material is burning.

Class A fires refer to most fires that catch in ordinary objects. Ordinary objects include clothing, toys, carpets, and papers.

Class B fires refer to fires that are based in flammable liquids such as grease, oil, or gasoline. It is important to remember that grease and oil can be found in most kitchens, and also in some bathroom products such as lotions and hair balms. Garages are hot spots for Class B fires, as there can easily be grease, gas, or oil on the ground, in tanks, or on rags.

Class C fires occur when electrical equipment such as wires and electrical appliances catch fire.

Class D fires are less common in houses as the other classes of fire. They refer to fires that catch in metals such as magnesium, titanium, potassium and sodium. Water or liquid chemicals generally do not extinguish these fires. They often require an extinguishing dry powder to put them out.

Using the Right Extinguisher

Once you have determined the class of fire, it is important that you use the proper extinguisher. All classifications are shown on the faceplate on the front side of the extinguisher. Some extinguishers are marked with multiple fire classes such as AB, BC and ABC. These extinguishers are capable of putting out more than one class of fire. For this reason, most people keep ABC fire extinguishers so that no thinking has to be done in the event of a fire.

How to Use an Extinguisher

Fire extinguishers are simple to use. Simply remember the acronym "PASS" and you will know the steps to effectively putting out a fire:

P: Pull the pin. You will find a pin in the bottom part of the nozzle. Yank it out.

A: Aim the extinguisher nozzle. The most effective place to aim for is at the bottom of the flames, where the combustibles are.

S: Squeeze trigger. Keep the extinguisher upright as you spray.

S: Sweep the extinguisher from side to side. Be sure to spray the entire area of the fire.

If you forget these steps, simply read the directions on the back of the extinguisher, or just use your common sense. And remember: if the fire gets out of control, get away immediately and call the fire department to come put the fire out.

To Lessen Slips, Trips and Falls

Slips and falls to the same level injure nearly 1.7 million workers each year. In addition to the medical bills and reporting this creates, workers average six to eight days off work or on restricted duty while recovering from these injuries. In fact, slip and fall injuries account for about 65% of time lost from work!

If everyone does their part, most of these injuries can be prevented through proper planning and coordinated housekeeping efforts.

OSHA Requires Clean Floors

Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires employers to provide a clean, safe work environment. Among these regulations, floor safety is addressed: "The floor of every workroom shall be maintained in a clean and, so far as possible, a dry condition. Where wet processes are used, drainage shall be maintained, and false floors, platforms, mats or other dry standing places should be provided where practicable." [29 CFR 1910.22(a)]

ANSI Standard

Although the requirement to keep floors clean and dry has been in place for nearly three decades, (OSHA first published the regulation in 1974) and many building codes and consensus standards using the term "slip-resistant" have been written; no method existed to quantify what “slip-resistant” really meant.

In 2001, American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and the American Society of Safety Engineers (ASSE) jointly published ANSI/ASSE A1264.2-2001, Standard for the Provision of Slip Resistance on Walking / Working Surfaces.

This consensus standard details provisions for creating and maintaining safer work surfaces, and lists applicable American Standard Test Method (ASTM) standards for testing of various surfaces and footwear. According to the standard, the intent is to, "help in the reduction of falls due to conditions, which in some fashion are manageable." As with all ANSI standards, compliance is voluntary.

The principles contained within the document provide guidelines for floor safety and housekeeping that will benefit nearly every facility. The standard seeks to "set forth common and accepted practices for providing reasonably safe walking / working surfaces." According to their studies, slip and fall accidents can be associated with the following:

Floor surface characteristics

Footwear traction properties

Environmental factors (water, oil or other contaminants) 

Human factors (gait, human activity) 

Psychological and physiological conditions of the walker

Because the last two factors are nearly impossible for employers and management to control, this standard addresses only the first three conditions. The major topics outlined in the standard are discussed below.

Footwear

Just as a ballerina could not perform well in a pair of goulashes, workers will not be at their best if they're in ballet slippers. In addition to any necessary safety features for compliance with OSHA standards (29 CFR 1910.136) such as steel toes, shanks, metatarsal protectors, etc., consider floor characteristics when choosing footwear.

As a general rule, smooth, leather soles provide little traction, especially on smooth or wet floors. Office workers, who may be accustomed to wearing dress shoes, can easily become victims of slip and fall hazards when they enter wet or slippery work zones — or even a smooth but dusty concrete floor in the warehouse. If this is a possibility, consider posting signs or notices on office doors or at work area entrances to remind them of this potential hazard, or consider offering overshoes that can be slipped on to provide traction.

When selecting footwear, the standard suggests considering not only the slip resistance a shoe or boot will provide, but also the tread design, harness of the sole, shape of the sole and heel, abrasion resistance, oil resistance, chemical and heat resistance.

Mats and Runners

Marble, tile, linoleum, un-brushed concrete, treated wood: although each has a unique look and feel, they are all very slippery when wet. When it rains or snows, moisture is inevitably tracked in with workers. Placing mats or floor runners at building entrances helps remove excess moisture, which can lead to slip and fall accidents. According to the standard, "as a rule of safe practice, footprints or water prints should not be seen on the floor beyond the last mat of an entrance."

The longer the runner or entrance mat, the greater the likelihood that it will dry workers’ feet before they step off of it. Stairs can be another area of concern when inclement weather hits. If stairs are — or could become — slippery, consider applying non-slip paints, or grit-coated adhesive strips to increase traction.

Consider absorbent mats or runners for other areas of the facility as well. For example, absorbent mats can be used in aisle ways near machines that overspray; in process areas; or anywhere contaminants threaten to make a working / walking surface slick. Mats may be appropriate near water fountains, coffee areas, sinks, and "other areas where spills may occur and are part of the workplace."

Housekeeping

Stocking supplies and having a dedicated maintenance staff isn't enough. A written program detailing everyone's responsibilities must be created and implemented to maintain safe walking / working surfaces. "The program should describe materials, equipment, scheduling, methods and training of those conducting housekeeping" according to the standard.

If employees are not currently responsible for housekeeping, some may not be too excited to add housekeeping functions to their list of daily tasks. Combat this by providing a vivid picture of the desired outcome: no slip and fall injuries.

Even if training is a success, steps need to be taken to make it as easy as possible to perform these functions. Who has time to go running all the way across the building for a spill kit to absorb a spill at the loading dock?

Stocking spill kits, signs, mats and other supplies in spill-prone areas throughout the facility will help everyone do their part to clean up or at least notify others of hazards. This training can often be incorporated into corporate HAZCOM (29 CFR 1910.1200) or Spill Response (29 CFR 1910.120) trainings, and is a great lesson for all employees, not just maintenance or line workers. A coffee spill on the tiled floor in the executive offices can cause an accident just as serious as slipping on an oily floor near a drill press.

Warnings

Sometimes, unexpected events, such as a ruptured process feed line, or a roof leak after a major storm can create hazards; necessitating barricades, diverters or other forms of warning to keep everyone safe until the problem is corrected and the floor is again clean and safe.

According to the standard, "If a slip / fall hazard cannot be eliminated or until appropriate hazard control measure can be implemented, a visual hazard-alert warning message should be provided or access control of the area should be used to control employees entering the hazard area."

Stanchions, signs, warning tape or other forms of barricades can help define safe perimeters, especially in the event of a spill of hazardous materials. To contain spills, "scupper curbing, dikes, drip pans and operational enclosures" can be used to keep spillage out of walkways until trained employees can mitigate the spill and the area is restored to a safe condition.

Controlled Access

Train employees to know their limits. Although all employees should be encouraged to keep their work areas clean and dry to whatever extent is reasonable, unless they have been properly trained to do so, employees should not assist in hazardous spill cleanups.

Untrained employees, such as office workers or visitors, should also be prevented from entering hazard prone areas, such as wet processing lines, without an escort who has been trained to look for hazards and point them out to anyone who is being taken through the area.

Selection and/or Treatment of Surfaces Improving the traction of a slippery floor is one way to reduce slip / fall incidents. Sometimes, this can be as simple as changing floor cleaning products. More often, though, it takes a little more effort. "Where it is not practical to replace flooring, etching, scoring, grooving, brushing, appliqués, coatings and other such techniques shall be used to provide acceptable slip resistance," according to the standard.

For concrete floors in work areas, non-slip paints can be applied to increase traction. These paints are available in many different grades and colors; and can be used not only in walking areas, but also on ramps, in loading areas, and in areas where harsh chemicals are handled. Most are also formulated to be easy to clean with common cleaning equipment, such as mops and floor scrubbers. In areas where you want the natural beauty of a floor to show; clear, non-abrasive coatings can be applied to the surface.

After coatings, finishes, etc. have been installed; cleaning plays a major role in determining whether or not the floor will maintain its desired properties. No finish will last forever, but improper cleaning lessens the life span of even the toughest floor preparations.

Using the wrong detergent, using too much detergent, using dirty mops, etc. can also contribute to less than desirable results. When in doubt, contact the manufacturer of the floor preparation for cleaning recommendations. In addition, see what the manufacturer of the cleaning chemicals recommends. Both sources should be able to provide valuable insight into maximizing your floor investment.

Testing Equipment

To evaluate the slip resistance of footwear or a work surface, the standard lists ASTM test methods that may be used. It is important to choose the correct test method, because results from a dry surface test won't necessarily be valid or accurate if that surface becomes wet, and vice versa.

When testing, a coefficient of friction (COF) of 0.5 is considered to be a desirable result for general walking areas; however, a number lower than this does not necessarily mean that the floor is hazardous. Ramps, stairs and areas where more physical exertion is required may necessitate a higher COF.

Prepare Now

Taking the time to improve floor conditions now, and training workers to identify and rectify hazards in their work areas will go a long way toward a reduction in slip and fall injuries - saving the company money by reducing workers compensation costs and keeping workers healthy and on the job.

Head Safety

Terminal Health: Office Ergonomics Help Computer Workers

Work performed at computers requires us to sit still in the same position for long periods of time. It also involves frequent, repetitive movements of the eyes, head, arms, and fingers. Such movements eventually causes fatigue that leads to problems such as repetitive strain injuries (e.g., carpal tunnel syndrome) and eye strain. Ergonomics experts point out that these problems can be avoided by:

Setting up a comfortable work environment. Taking a short break every 20 minutes to shift positions, walk, and stretch. Varying your work so that you use different muscles.

Setting up your Work Environment It is very important to properly arrange your chair and keyboard. Follow these tips for setting up your workplace:

Place your chair so you can easily reach and see your computer screen and keyboard

Place the keyboard just above lap level so you can tilt your arms down and keep them open at a comfortable angle

Tilt the back edge of the keyboard slightly down to keep wrists in a neutral position

If you work from hard-copy documents, you should use a document holder; place this holder within easy reach and close enough to avoid eye strain

In addition, use a light touch when typing. Keep your shoulders relaxed and your elbows at your side. Don't use armrests while typing.

Both your chair and computer monitor should be adjustable. The chair should be the proper height in relation to your desk. This helps support your lower back. When setting up your monitor:

Center it directly in front of you.

Sit an arms' length away.

Position the top of your screen level with your eyes.

Tilt your monitor slightly upward.

Visual Problems

Your work environment and desk arrangement also affect your vision. Computer users often complain of eyestrain and irritation. These problems are caused by improper lighting, glare from the screen, and poor positioning of the screen and document holder. These problems can be avoided with relatively simple adjustments. For instance, you can shift your desk to avoid direct or reflected glare. Balance the brightness of your monitor with surroundings. Adjust font size and color if text is hard to read

Also, "vision breaks" can reduce eyestrain. Use eye exercises such as rolling and blinking to relax your eye muscles. Look away from you computer screen to change your focus and give your eyes a break.

Repetitive Strain Injuries

Repetitive strain injuries became more commonplace as computer usage increased. These injuries lead to pain and even disability. Causes include awkward movements and postures while typing. Symptoms include fatigue, muscle inflammation, and nerve compression.

Many people deal with these through schedule changes, improved body alignment, and workstation rearrangement. Others even switch to using laptop computers. If you decide to use a laptop, follow these guidelines:

Set up the keyboard so your elbows are level with or slightly higher than the keyboard.

Use a chair without armrests so that you have room to move your arms.

Avoid using wrist rest areas while typing.

Don't bend your neck and head forward to see the screen. Instead, tuck in your chin to look down, keeping your head and neck balanced over the spine.

Solar Power Technology System

In theory, silicon solar panels are great. The reality remains, however, that they are an expensive investment—though they certainly yield valuable results—that few American families are willing to make. As a result of an increase in demand in 2004, prices rose to nearly 500 dollars per kilogram by 2008. Now, new technology is leading to a more affordable way to harness solar energy. Researchers at the U.S. Department of Energy’s National Renewable Energy Laboratory, along with numerous other independent companies, have been working on a thin-film solar cell that relies on copper indium gallium selenide technology—CIGS for short—as a means of converting solar energy into electrical power.

Silicon Solar Panels

There are two types of silicon technology used in silicon solar-absorbing panels. Monocrystalline silicon (which consists of slivers of silicon up to 150 mm in diameter and 350 microns thick), and multicrystalline silicon (wafers acquired through the division of a solid block of silicon), serve as semi-conducting solar absorbers, although crystalline silicon is actually a weak absorber of light. Because of this property, the material must be pretty thick—however, crystalline silicon is used because it is relatively and durable.

New Thin-film Technology

Since the cost of crystalline silicon is out of reach for the average consumer, there has been a push toward technology that is readily available and affordable. By identifying materials that are efficient absorbers of solar power and cost-effective for both the manufacturer and the consumer, three new forms of thin-film solar panels have been developed: amorphous silicon, cadmium telluride, and CIGS technology. All three forms are highly-absorbent and can operate effectively at a thickness of about 1 micron, which means they are less expensive than the thick crystalline silicon alternative.

Amorphous silicon differs from traditional crystalline silicon in that it is arranged spontaneously and thinly layered, whereas crystalline silicon is almost grid-like in pattern and thick. It was the earliest attempt at a thin-filmed solar cell, and was initially applied to items such as calculators. In attempts to create thinner films, many companies have tried using combinations of crystalline silicon and amorphous silicon. In the spring of 2008, amorphous silicon comprised about 60 percent of the solar-cell market.

Cadmium telluride is the most eco-friendly of solar panels because the least amount of energy is used to create it, yet it comprised only 30 percent of the solar-cell market in 2008. Its band gap—1.4 electron-volts—is very near to that of the solar spectrum, making it an effective semiconductor.

Copper indium gallium selenide (CIGS) is the newest technology and only accounted for 1 percent of the solar market in 2008, yet it has been achieving a high-level of success in studies. It has obtained efficiency levels as high as 20.3 percent, which is the highest any thin-film has ever reached.

CIGS Technology

Although it isn’t in wide use, perhaps due to its novelty, CIGS seems to be a promising form of solar cell. However, difficulty in manufacturing reliably efficient cells could be a problem when it comes to mass-production, despite the fact that CIGS cells have already surpassed other forms of technology in efficiency in the lab. For more info, try here: http://www.nrel.gov/news/press/2008/574.html.

In other forms of solar panels, a base material’s surface is coated using a variety of materials, such as silicon or cadmium telluride, to create an absorbent device. In CIGS technology, if selenium is left exposed (as it would be if used to coat a base plate) atoms of the semi-toxic element become hard to control. To avoid this potential problem and create a cell that both protects and maximizes the potential of the materials, several companies have been making strides in how the panels are manufactured. Using glass, stainless steel sheets, flexible metal foils, or high temperature polymers to form two backing plates, thin layers of cadmium selenide and indium selenide are then deposited. The plates are joined together using heat and electromagnetic forces, keeping selenium between the plates and preventing exposure.

Thin-film solar technology offer several advantages over traditional silicon panels. Because these panels are thin-filmed, they can easily be incorporated into existing structures, such as windows and roof shingles, so as to be inconspicuous. Manufacturing components with thin-film technology built in could cut down on cost, eliminating the need to spend money on a separate solar device and installation.

Industrial Guardrial Plant and Facility

Industrial Guardrails Buying Guide

Guardrails are used for safety and barrier purposes and are an integral part of various industrial structures. These assemblies are typically installed at platform ends and are incorporated within mezzanine structures in industrial sites, such as warehouses. They are used on highways as a protection barrier against vehicle impact, to prevent falls, and in production areas. Standard guardrail fabrication materials include variations of stainless steel, a material recommended because of its durability. Wooden guardrails are another common barrier material. There are numerous variations of standard guardrails, which must comply with OSHA standards. Both single and double railing systems are a standard guardrail installation option. Additionally, guardrail styles include W-beam, curved, bolt and drop-in varieties.

• Standard Guardrail Applications:

• Pedestrian walkway protection

• Workstation and transformer area barrier

• Protect equipment from forklift damages

• Protect building from damage (ie, walls and doors)

• Installed along roadways to prevent and minimize accidents

Guardrail Components:

A standard guardrail system is mounted to the floor by base plates, which are fastened with anchor bolts. Each guardrail system also includes columns that are commonly fabricated from steel. Such columns, or posts, are often pre-drilled by the manufacturer and include the hardware for installation. Standard galvanized steel systems (specifically 12-gauge) provide durability and are often fabricated in curved, 90 degree variations, for traffic areas. Other variations include cylindrical steel beams and flatter beams, featuring ribbing. For indoor and outdoor areas, railings are typically painted OSHA yellow. The type and amount of beam railing varies according to the application requirements. For instance, railing can consist of one to three beams and the beams may be coated with UV resistant polyurethane sleeves.

Guardrail Types and Styles

W-beams are the standard traffic and highway safety rails and are constructed in high gauge steel. To protect against environmental conditions, this type of beam is fabricated with zinc coatings and weather (resistant) coated materials.

Drop-in rails featurebrackets thatallow post sectionsto slide into the structure uponinstallation.This type ofrailing is easily accessible.

Bolt-on rails involve specific installation with hand tools and drills, though the hardware for this type of railing is typically included by the manufacturer.Single, double or triple rails may be selected for an application.

Additional Considerations

Professionals caution that it is essential to comply with OSHA standards for worker and installation safety reasons, as guardrails may malfunction if they are not installed properly. For example, precautions such as safety nets should be utilized during installation. The OSHA issues additional standard safety guidelines on their website: http://www.osha.gov/SLTC/etools/construction/falls/guardrail.html

Soundproof a Room Plant and Facility

How to Soundproof a Room

When considering how to go about soundproofing a room, whether commercial, industrial, or residential, there are several factors to address. First, investigating the source of the sound (if unknown) and determining the path of reverberation is essential in both sound minimization and in developing a soundproofing plan for the room. After addressing the source of the noise and minimizing it if possible, selecting an appropriate material with which to further minimize the noise and soundproof the room is typically advised.

How Sound Travels

If the source of the noise is an industrial machine, it is often very difficult to minimize the noise at its source. Instead, examining how sounds travels from its source to its final destination—the transmission path—is often the appropriate place to start. Sound travels in waves that can be slowed, reflected, or refracted by objects it encounters. Transmission paths can vary, depending on the sound. Sometimes sound moves directly from the source to the ear of a nearby receiver; other times it encounters barriers along the way that reflect some of the initial sound back, thus dampening and softening what the end receiver hears. Sound can also travel through the ground and surrounding structures, which further complicates tracing its route.

Addressing Noise

In trying to reduce noise, it is often most cost-effective to attempt to treat the source of the sound itself before attempting to soundproof an entire enclosure. Examine the source of the sound (a drum set, a large industrial machine) and determine if any damping treatments can be applied to minimize the sound output. If possible, move the device in question to either alter the path of transmission or further reduce the output. Once the source of the noise has been addressed as much as possible, it may then be time to consider soundproofing materials for the larger enclosure. Common materials include the following:

Acoustical Linings

Absorbent Materials

Barriers and Panels

Acoustical linings can be an effective method for lining electrical channels, ducts, and pipes, which are common ways sound is transmitted throughout (and beyond) a room. A lining with a thickness around 2 cm can be applied in ducts and vents to block high-frequency noise. Bafflers, another kind of duct lining, are another option for blocking sound in duct passageways.

Absorbent materials are often used to interrupt a sound’s transmission path by absorbing noise as it makes contact with the material. Instead of being bounced back, as it is when it makes contact with harder material, sound can be absorbed by softer, strategically placed material. Sound-deadening drapes and mats can be applied to ceilings and walls in already finished rooms; in unfinished rooms, the installation of fiberglass batting (and drywall board). The addition of fiberglass insulation, in both finished and unfinished rooms can greatly reduce the transmission of sound beyond the enclosure.

Barriers and panels are an effective way to reroute sound by interrupting the sound’s path. When used in conjunction with absorbent materials, some of the sound waves will be absorbed (and dampened) while the remaining sound can be redirected. The manner in which a sound reacts to a barrier or panel can vary. A sound can follow one of several paths when it encounters an obstacle. Often, the sound passes through the barrier, although it is reduced in strength. Other times a sound can be reflected, meaning the path of the sound is altered and the sound bounces off the object in a different direction. A sound can also be diffracted, meaning the waves are bent and their path is altered. The best outcome occurs when the sound is completely absorbed by the barrier it encounters. Through strategic use of absorbent materials and barriers and panels, the path of the sound can be significantly altered and therefore reduced.

Basic Do-it-Yourself Methods

For those seeking to soundproof a room on their own, there are several basic steps that can be taken. If the room has yet to be constructed but has all electrical wiring and piping in place, incorporating the steps below may help ensure a tighter, more soundproof enclosure. As always, a professional should be consulted before beginning.

Hang drywall over the existing walls, but leave enough space so that additional soundproofing material can be placed between the layers.

Apply fiberglass batting between the two layers, or cellulose-based foam. The goal is to apply a layer of batting that will further absorb noise.

Further soundproof the drywall by using prefabricated soundproofing material, such as rigid panels, barriers, or drapes, hang the material as directed. Next, re-hang the drywall

If the enclosure features windows, using a double-hung vinyl-framed window can help minimize the transmission of sound. If the windows are already constructed and replacing the windows is too costly, consider making covers for the windows out of prefabricated absorbent material, or hanging sound-absorbent drapes.

SEO Wood Finishing

Wood finishing involves the application of a protective layer to otherwise bare wood. But before a protective coating can be applied, the wood’s surface must be prepared. Sanding, planing, and scraping can help eliminate surface imperfections by softening and smoothing the wood. Processes to alter the wood’s color and aesthetic are often applied before the finish, including staining and bleaching. Once these processes are completed, the appropriate finish is selected. However, because wood is a versatile material with countless functions, wood finish is equally diverse. By comparing specific application requirements with various finish traits, the right coating can be selected.

Types of Wood Finish

When selecting a wood finish, there are a range of characteristics to consider. Do you want the final product to shine? Or are you more interested in a matte appearance? Is the application intended to withstand outdoor use? Or is durability not a concern? Prioritizing finish traits can simplify finding the appropriate coating. Some common types of clear finish and their distinguishing characteristics are discussed below.

Wax

One of the perks of opting for a wax finish is that it’s easy to use and apply, and it produces a nice shine. However, wax finishes often need to be reapplied and only provide minimal protection. They are easy to remove, which makes it a fairly noncommittal finish selection.

Shellac

Although shellac is classified as a clear finish, some grades carry a distinct yellowish tint. Shellac does, however, provide its substrate with moderate water protection and provides effective protection against solvents, with the exception of alcohol. The coating itself is durable and does not require reapplication. The application technique can be complicated but, like wax, shellac can be completely removed using alcohol. Additionally, shellac is compatible with other coatings and acts as an effective base layer.

Nitrocellulose Lacquer

This clear coating creates a hard, glossy finish, which provides good substrate protection and has strong durability. However, there are several toxic solvents in the mixture, requiring the applier to use a protective mask to avoid inhaling toxic fumes. Additionally, the coating typically requires a spray-on application method, which further releases toxins into the air. Alternative brush methods can be used to avoid this complication. Like shellac and wax, nitrocellulose lacquer can be removed.

Conversion Varnish

In many ways, conversion varnish resembles nitrocellulose lacquer. Both coatings result in hard, glossy finishes and are durable. Their application methods are similar, and in both cases protection against toxins is necessary. Conversion varnish, however, can only be applied in shops using specialized spray equipment and is hard to remove. Additionally, the coating can resist an array of substances, providing strong substrate protection.

Polyurethane Varnish

Like other varnishes, polyurethane varnish delivers a clear coating. However, multiple layers can give a substrate a plastic type finish, which provides strong protection against an array of substances. Because the solvents involved are petroleum-based, the coating is relatively safe. The coating can be somewhat difficult to apply and requires a 30 day curing period. Paint removers can effectively remove the coating, and after the curing period, the coating is quite durable.

Water-Based Polyurethane

Due in part to the addition of water, water-based polyurethane produces a clear coating without the plastic look. Additionally, it works well on products that are exposed to UV and is safer to use than traditional polyurethane varnish. The coating dries rapidly, so care must be taken in brush and spray application. The curing period is the same as polyurethane varnish, after which the coating is durable. Paint removers also work to remove water-based polyurethane.

Oil Finishes

Oil finishes, such as tung oil and linseed oil, can be used to accentuate the wood’s grain but do not provide much protection. They provide the wood with a warm glow and increase in durability when layered. Application is easy, but drying typically takes 12 hours or longer. To remove oil finishes, the substrate must be sanded down because oil absorbs into the wood.

PC-based Machine Vision Versus Smart Camera Systems

PC-based Machine Vision Versus Smart Camera Systems

are also relatively simple, meaning that advanced computer skills are not always necessary for implementing a smart camera system.

Smart cameras can be designed with “open embedded” processing technology that eliminates the need for certain peripheral devices, such as a frame-capture card or an external computer. This streamlined system reduces costs while retaining functional capacity and, if coupled with an advanced processor, can rival some PC systems for power. In addition, the open embedded format is free of interfaces, which are usually needed to link multiple components into an operational network. Open embedded smart cameras are considered standalone vision systems, as they can generally handle tasks with minimal reliance on secondary devices.

Many cameras are equipped with communication hardware (Ethernet, RS232, etc.) that can transmit data to mainframes or other storage devices for future use. If the camera has limited processing ability, transferring information can augment processing speed by shifting administrative duties to an external device. Smart Camera Disadvantages

Due to their simple, compact design, smart cameras usually have less processing capability than PC-based systems. This limits the range and number of tasks that a smart camera can handle. Since they have difficulty managing more sophisticated algorithms, complex images or operations requiring rapid analysis are typically outside their scope.

Smart cameras often use proprietary hardware, making replacement or modification of parts a challenging process. When coupled with a compressed design, this feature severely limits the degree to which smart cameras can be upgraded. For similar reasons, expanding a smart camera’s functional range to handle different or additional tasks can be problematic. PC-based System Advantages

As previously mentioned, PC-based vision systems generally have greater processing power and are capable of handling complex operations at relatively high speed. This broader range of capabilities also enables PC systems to compensate for unexpected variables in certain tasks. For example, products on an assembly line tend to accumulate slight variations over a period of time, sometimes measured in months. Because the deviations occur gradually, they may not be detectable by a system with limited processing power, but a sophisticated computer vision network can perceive and mark the change.

Unlike smart cameras, most PCs are upgradeable and can have components swapped with relative ease. This versatility makes a PC system highly customizable, as it can have newer or more application-specific hardware installed to specialize on a certain task, or have its general range of functions expanded. For instance, a PC-based vision system could initially be employed for identifying and measuring components on an assembly line. Its duties could then be extended through installation of a software and hardware package to control a robotic arm that would remove any flawed products from the line. PC-based System Disadvantages

Since the PC itself is typically devoted to image-processing, several peripheral components are often necessary for frame grabbing, data transfer, lighting, and sometimes storage. This multi-unit format can become bulky or overly complex, and usually requires interfaces for each component in the system. Integrating such a network into a manufacturing process or existing vision system can be a challenging task, and may require advanced computer knowledge to install.

The multi-component configuration can also be highly fragile. Since numerous devices must be operating simultaneously, a malfunctioning unit can negatively affect the rest of the system, or even render it nonfunctional until the error can be corrected. PCs themselves tend to be less durable than smart cameras, and show greater signs of wear over a shorter period of time. Vision System Applications

Product inspection and quality assurance are two of the most common uses for machine vision. It is often employed for detecting flaws in vehicle parts for the automotive industry; pills, packaging, or labels for pharmaceutical companies; and microchips for computer manufacturers. Vision systems can scan barcodes for a product run, or retinas for biometric recognition.

Before deciding on a machine vision system, it is important for a manufacturer to evaluate the differences between formats. The distinction between smart cameras and PC-based systems can be summarized as one of cost versus capability. Smart cameras tend to be cheaper, more simply designed, and easier to use, but with limited processing power and expandability. PC systems have greater power, speed, and versatility, but at a higher price and with a more complicated design. However, as technological advances continue to refine the existing options, smart cameras and PC-based systems might eventually share more similarities than differences.

Smart Camera Integration in Machine Vision Systems

Smart Camera Integration in Machine Vision Systems 

Machine vision is an image-processing technology that enables automated devices to scan objects within a limited field of view, interpret their orientation, and react according to preprogrammed sequences. Smart cameras, or “machine vision sensors,” often support a machine vision system by digitizing and transferring frames for computer analysis, but some smart cameras can also serve as self-contained vision systems without relying on external processing equipment.

Unlike standard industrial or commercial cameras, smart cameras can decode the images they capture, making them less reliant on human perception. A smart camera can digitize a frame, determine if it should be communicated to a peripheral computing system, and in some cases, decide on an appropriate response to the image without resorting to outside analysis. It has a broader range of capabilities than that of traditional cameras, and can perform relatively sophisticated automated operations.

Smart Camera Specifications

Machine vision is typically a multi-staged system that employs smart cameras in the initial phases of image-processing. Although a smart camera cannot “see” with the complexity of a human eye, it can approximate vision by examining pixel clusters through pattern recognition software and drawing simple conclusions based on programmed knowledge. The components used to accomplish this include:

Sensors: Image detection equipment, such as a charge-coupled device (CCD) or a complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS), that converts lens projections into a voltage sequence, which can then be digitized or stored in memory.

Digitization circuit: A conversion device that maps a set of points onto an image and translates them into pixels to create a digital representation.

Central processing unit: A CPU, or in some cases a digital signal processor (DSP), that executes algorithmic programs for interpreting a digital image code.

Storage hardware: Primary and secondary memory, such as RAM or Flash, used to run CPU programs, or to record and store images for future use.

Communication technology: A method for connecting cameras to external devices. An Ethernet or RS232 signal transmits encoded images to a computer for analysis, or delivers instructions to reactive equipment.

Lighting Device/LED: An illumination apparatus for clearer image captures.

Smart camera capabilities typically vary from model to model. Some types may incorporate all of the listed components, while others retain only the sensors, digital circuitry, and communication interface necessary for supporting a larger machine vision system.

Industrial Quality Control

Smart cameras are employed for a number of automated functions, whether complementing a multipart machine vision system, or as standalone image-processing units. Due to their cost-efficiency and relative ease of use, smart cameras may be an effective option for streamlining automation methods, or integrating vision systems into manufacturing operations.

In industrial production, manufacturers often use smart cameras for inspection and quality assurance purposes. A smart camera can be programmed to detect structural or component flaws, missing parts, defective or deformed pieces, and other deviations from an intended design. If networked to the proper automated equipment, such as a robotic arm or retractor, a smart camera with processing capabilities can signal the instrument to remove a defective product. Alternatively, the camera can flag a deformed product for later removal.

Smart cameras are also used for industrial measuring. Using sensors, the camera can determine and record a component’s physical dimensions without making direct contact. Depending on the vision system’s level of sophistication, these measurements can involve high precision analysis and incremental scanning. The ability to verify a product’s dimensions is also used in quality assurance to check for adherence to design specifications.

Code Reading and Identification

Code reading and authentication require less processing capacity than product inspection, so relatively simple smart camera models can perform such operations. A barcode provides machine-readable data that can be quickly scanned by a smart camera, thereby enabling a high volume of code-imprinted products to be authenticated at a comparatively rapid pace. Smart cameras can verify that a barcode has been applied to the appropriate product, or determine if a code contains the correct data.

Optical character recognition is a more complex form of code reading that requires smart cameras to identify typewritten text. The rate of authentication may be slower than that of barcode reading, but with adequate processing power, a smart camera can analyze text to a high degree of accuracy. This can be useful for ensuring that printed materials display correct spelling and word order, and that product labels conform to design.

A smart camera can provide movement correction and repositioning data when working in conjunction with an automated tool. Through a network, the camera can communicate with a robotic device to assist it with sorting or identifying parts. This process helps improve the efficiency of automated services by increasing the accuracy of part manipulation.

Other Uses for Smart Cameras

Since a smart camera’s functionality chiefly depends on its image-processing capacity, the device is adaptable to numerous requirements. Smart camera users can develop or purchase custom software programs to meet specific machine vision needs, which can range from product quality assurance to law enforcement support.

Some machine vision systems form a visual sensor network, which uses multiple smart cameras positioned at specific locations to capture images of a single object or area from several angles. This method is applied under circumstances in which numerous images fused together are more useful than the individual image each camera obtains. Sensor networks can effectively monitor environmental conditions, track objects in motion, or simulate three-dimensional representations of images.

The technology used in a smart camera has also been applied to biometric recognition systems. Retinal, facial, or fingerprint scanning are used for security purposes. A smart camera’s processor can execute programs that use recognition algorithms to verify a person’s identity or trace his location. (For more information on BioMetrics, visit the BioMetric Consortium.)

Welding In Wet Condition

It’s just bound to happen.

At some point in the course of your welding practice, whether you’re a seasoned professional welder or a home-based project welder, you’re going to encounter wet conditions on a job site or during a project.

As welding safety issues go, properly handling moisture and wet conditions is beyond important because most welding machines (everything but oxyacetylene gas welders) are driven by electricity – and electricity kills! BAM! – one good strong jolt, your heart stops, and that’s all she wrote. And as everyone knows (or should know): water and electricity don’t mix. So the importance of avoiding water or moisture of any kind while you’re welding cannot be stressed enough.

But, as I referenced at the outset of this post, what happens when you encounter moisture from a host of potential sources, or when you’re faced with inclement weather (rain, thunder storms and the like) while welding in the field?

The following is a list of important tips to help keep you safe and alive when you’re welding in wet conditions.

Sweat from Perspiration

Welding is heat intensive hard work – in a word, it’s hot. And combine tSweathat with working outside in summer heat or an overheated welding shop, and you’re going to sweat – there’s just no two ways about it.

Perspiration can adversely affect you in a number of ways:

Gloves

One of the biggest sweat related problems is the perspiration that accumulates in your gloves as you’re welding. Keep in mind, an arc welding electrode is always live, i.e. charged with an active electrical current. If your gloves become saturated with sweat and you touch the electrode you’ve been welding with – WATCH OUT! You’re going to receive a serious jolt.

"If you're working with damp gloves you'll likely feel tingling due to your body becoming part of the electrical path." -- Welding Questions "101" from www.arc-welding-and-beyond.com

Clothing

Just as with your gloves, your clothing can become saturated with perspiration, and if a part of your body sheathed in sweat soaked clothing comes into contact with a live electrode – WHAM-O! You’ll be hit with the same size jolt as you would if you were to touch a live electrode with your sweaty gloves.

Boots

You should always be wearing proper welding boots (for a myriad of important safety reasons beyond moisture related issues) because welding boots have rubber soles, which act as a ground. Being grounded helps minimize the adverse effects of electricity, should you happen to receive a jolt while you’re welding.

If, however, your boots are wet (due to perspiration or because it’s raining and you walked through a puddle) the ground effect of your rubber soled welding boots are negated, because moisture conducts electricity, essentially amplifying the electricity traveling through your body.

In short, always be sure that your gloves, clothing and boots stay dry! If any of the articles of clothing you’re wearing should happen to become wet (for whatever reason) – stop welding – and don’t begin again until you’re completely dry. Rain and Other Inclement Weather

Inclement weather, including thunderstorms and tornado, present a host of issues that can wreak havoc with outdoor or construction site welding projects.

To begin with, basic common sense dictates you shouldn’t be outside in a thunderstorm – if you think the electrical charge from a welding machine packs a whalup, you better hold on to your shorts because a bolt of lightning will literally blow you away.

Additionally, the wind accompanying most storms (thunder or otherwise) can blow away your shield gas, making your welding arc unstable and compromising the integrity of your weld.

Tornados are the same story as thunderstorms – you should be underground, not on a job site, that is unless you want to end up like Dorothy in the Wizard of Oz (just pray Aunt Em’s house doesn’t end up on you). And just as with more generic storms, the wind and other weather related elements symptomatic of a Tornado can blow away your shielding gas and create a host of problems with your welding process.

Getting down to the stated issue at hand, welding in the rain is a big no-no. There are really no circumstances which make welding outdoors or in an open air setting while it’s raining acceptable. Operating a welding machine in the rain is a surefire recipe for death by electrocution.

If you’re in the middle of a welding project when rain hits, immediately discontinue your project, turn off all welding equipment and do your best to get the machine out of the rain or at least covered by a tarp (or whatever you can come up with). Furthermore, do not resume work until the storm has completely broken, and you’re certain all welding equipment is dry.