Safeyt news : Fire Protection

Corrosion-free alternative for onboard safety SAFETY is a key priority for the offshore oil and gas industry, and ensuring safety onboard any production facility is absolutely vital. Critical to delivering onboard safety is the fire deluge system which, designed to protect areas where fire is likely to spread rapidly, is now commonplace on offshore facilities.

However, traditionally used carbon steel-fabricated deluge systems are prone to corrosion when carrying saltwater, which can restrict or even block flow as rust forms, in turn reducing the effectiveness of the system.

Corrosion-free alternatives prevent such issues and give peace of mind to the offshore oil and gas sector. Presented in this white paper is a case study demonstrating the benefits that can be gained by specifying these alternatives.

TRADITIONAL TECHNOLOGY

Active fire protection systems, such as the fire deluge system, are essential for onboard safety and are designed to activate either mechanically or electronically in order to extinguish fires. While relatively simple in design and installation, their operation is essential for the safety of onboard personnel, asset protection and preventing event escalation.

In the offshore oil and gas industry, the risk of rapid fire spread is greater than most and as such, the fire deluge system needs to provide full assurance to the onboard team that it will not fail to deliver on any critical firewater or utility piping installations.

Traditionally, carbon steel-fabricated deluge systems have been installed to ensure onboard safety, however, the continual flow of water may cause potential blockages of small diameter pipe work and discharge nozzles. These are prone to corrosion that can cause vital systems to fail. This has resulted in the industry suffering from costly shutdowns and repairs, and in the worst-case scenario, risk of failure in an emergency. In addition, traditional systems also require constant maintenance, cleaning and testing, meaning additional unnecessary and costly downtime for the facility.

NEXT-GENERATION ALTERNATIVE

The problems encountered with traditional systems have since spurred the development of a new generation of fire-deluge systems that use synthetic rubber instead of traditional materials such as rigid steel, titanium, copper nickel and fiber glass piping.

By utilising synthetic rubber, systems can now be created that are non-corroding and can withstand jet fires with a heat flux of 390kW/m2, temperatures above 2552 deg F/ 1400 deg C and flame speeds that exceed the speed of sound. This makes it an ideal material choice for use in deluge and sprinkler systems on offshore oil and gas installations and ships, as well as other hazardous environments.

Due to its flexible characteristics, this new technology can be used to either partly or completely replace old systems and is also an ideal solution for temporary deluge systems when high safety levels need to be maintained during modification work to existing systems. The flexibility of the system allows it to be moved and reused (if temporary). Compared with rigid pipe systems, it requires fewer construction drawings, and the need for accurate measurements is reduced as the system can be designed and modified on site.

PROVEN SOLUTION

A recent example of how a traditional carbon steel-fabricated deluge system failed and was successfully replaced by a new, synthetic rubber alternative can be seen on Maersk’s FPSO Ngujima-Yin, a floating production storage and offloading (FPSO) vessel located in the Vincent Field off Western Australia. The vessel commenced operation in 2008 and has a daily production capacity of 120,000 barrels of oil and 100 million standard cubic feet of gas. The existing carbon steel seawater deluge system became corroded only two years after installation and required a significant number of man hours to carry out regular maintenance, cleaning and testing. A replacement was therefore required to reduce the long-term cost of ensuring essential fire protection at all times.

The challenge with the installation was to replace the existing fire deluge system throughout the FPSO modules without affecting the safety of the vessel as it continued output. The system required approximately 5,249 ft (1,600 metres) of pipe work, from 1 inch to 8 inches (25 mm to 200 mm) diameters, and associated fittings and accessories.

SYSTEM CONSIDERATION

Several factors had to be considered prior to specifying a replacement system. As the FPSO is a live production vessel, it must operate within a stringent set of safety regulations, requiring complete deluge coverage at all times. A temporary system would have to be rigged up while the existing pipes were removed and installation of the new system was undertaken.

Replacing a conventional deluge system requires hot work such as welding, cutting, brazing, soldering and grinding, which poses a number of issues when carried out on a live hydrocarbon facility. Any activity that generates heat, sparks, flames or other potential sources of ignition in an atmosphere that may be flammable requires a hot work permit. This is only granted after an in-depth risk assessment and also requires ongoing monitoring. To secure a permit, it may be necessary to isolate part of the hydrocarbon systems on a vessel, shut down production modules or use special habitat equipment. As such, hot work is usually only carried out as a last resort.

A number of material options were considered, including rigid copper-nickel and flexible synthetic rubber. Copper nickel has an extensive field-proven record and is cheap to purchase. However, it requires significant pre-fabrication and onboard construction. In contrast, synthetic rubber is easier to install and can be bent to a radius equal to five times its diameter, meaning it can negotiate minor clashes and obstructions as the installation progresses, while maintaining its structural integrity. Compared with rigid pipe systems, fewer detailed isometric construction drawings are required with a synthetic rubber system, and the need for accurate measurements is reduced as it can be designed and modified on site. This means a flexible synthetic rubber FPSO module deluge system can be installed in less than three months, whereas the installation time for an equivalent typical rigid system would be significantly longer. Taking these factors into account, Maersk contracted Trelleborg Offshore as an engineering, procurement, construction and installation (EPCI) supplier to install its synthetic rubber Elastopipe™ corrosion-free fire safety deluge system on the FPSO. CORROSION-FREE PROTECTION The Trelleborg Offshore system was developed as a result of both customer and industry feedback. Its design incorporates three core layers: the fire shield, pressure liner and inner layer. These combine to give the system high tolerance to impact, jet fire (2,552 deg F / 1,400 deg C for one hour), explosion and water hammer. The system is lightweight, durable and easy to cut, fit and install. Compared with a conventional carbon steel-based deluge system, which requires more frequent testing and maintenance and needs replacing at regular intervals over the lifetime of the platform or vessel, rubber deluge systems deliver a very low total life cost. The flexible piping system offers a 30-year minimum maintenance life, and its corrosion-free performance means system testing frequency can be reduced to statutory requirements.

INSTALLATION

The regulatory bodies governing deluge systems for FPSOs and similar structures did not have specific regulations to cover the flexible piping system, so there were early inquiries from independent verification societies into its concept and feasibility. For the project to proceed, approval from a number of national and industry authorities needed to be obtained. As the Maersk Ngujima-Yin is a Danish registered FPSO, the Danish Maritime Organization (DMO) had to approve the use of the flexible piping system onboard the vessel.

National Offshore Petroleum Safety Authority (NOPSA) approval was also required as the FPSO was producing oil in Australian waters. Finally, the installation had to be approved by Lloyd’s Register, which classed the ship. All authorities involved approved the solution proposed. The materials for the first module and the temporary deluge system were air freighted to Australia and were onboard the vessel within a week. The system, which comprises approximately 5,249 ft of flexible piping, titanium fittings, nozzles, pipe supports, valves and strainers, was pre-fabricated on board the Maersk Ngujima-Yin. This included cutting pipe runs to the required length and fitting the necessary ancillary components.

The first installation on the M60 module required 912 ft of flexible pipe and was completed in less than two weeks. The synthetic rubber-based flexible piping system was installed without any welding or other hot work, such as high-speed cutting, which could compromise the safety of the vessel. The rubber was cut using a specialised hand-held pipe cutter, while joints were made mechanically using air-operated hand tools and proprietary clips. Without the risk of sparks or naked flames, production and processing could continue unaffected.

A temporary Elastopipe deluge system for each module was installed before the existing steel pipes were removed and the permanent flexible pipe work and fixings were completed. This method ensured that full fire protection was retained throughout the project.

The fast-track project was carried out by 10 expert rope access pipe fitters and two supervisors. No lost time incidents (LTIs) were reported during installation.The installation team worked independently, without disturbing activity onboard or impacting production. The team implemented the full scope of activity in full compliance with both Woodside’s golden safety rules and Maersk’s divisional management system, which includes the Maersk permit to work system. The flexibility and light weight of the deluge system allowed very rapid installation, compared to a rigid pipe system, as it could be swiftly configured to confined spaces. The first two modules were completed in just a month, and all seven modules were completed and full-scale tested within three months, with no disruption to oil and gas production.

CONCLUSION

Safety on offshore oil and gas installations is of paramount importance, and having an effective and reliable deluge system is vital to ensuring onboard safety.In the harsh offshore and onshore oil and gas industry, you need the assurance of a material that delivers proven performance for your critical firewater and utility piping installations, without fail.

Source : Oil & Gas News Online

The New Safety Product Will Be Launched

Mining sector safety equipment manufacturer Mine Safety Appliances (MSA), a division of South Africa MSA Company Africa, says it plans to launch four safety products later this year. The products are the AirXpress, the Advantage 400, the PrimaX Gas and the Sordin left/RIGHT CutOff Pro.

The AirXpress, which is a supplied-air respirator with compact harness, has a pneumatic system that passes inside the respirator to protect the user from hook-up and abrasion, and is directly connected to a demand valve.

“The Advantage 400 series user-friendly air-purifying respirator comprises a single loop head harness. The unit offers high comfort and flexibility. The PrimaX Gas transmitter has an innovative enclosure design, quick site installation and the ability to detect a wide range of gases. The product has a patent pending,” says MSA marketing director Paul Gibbon.

The Sordin left/RIGHT CutOff Pro headset is an electronic level-dependent headset, with two external microphones that detect ambient sounds, while simultaneously blocking out any impulse sound over 82 dB. This means it allows the user to hear warning signs, as well as have face-to-face communication, while protecting against harmful noise concurrently, says the company.

Further, MSA is also in the planning stages of introducing cap lamps with tracking systems to locate miners in the event of an underground accident.

“MSA’s products are designed based on continuous research on safety trends and the company’s experience in the mining and personal protective equipment (PPE) market,” says MSA customer focus programmes and loyalty director Hayley Arnesen.

MSA assists its many clients to choose PPE-related products and facilitates the training required to use the safety products. The company also provides advice to ensure safety is never compromised, Arnesen says. In February, MSA celebrated 70 years of providing safety products to the mining industry in Africa. The company reports it was the first in Africa to develop an electric lamp – the Edison electric cap lamp.

“After 25 years of its existence, the cap lamp has reduced coal-mine-related explosion deaths by 75%. The cap lamp enables the miner to work in any position without the unit interfering with the free motion of the body,” the company states.

Healthy Tips: Eight Tips For Healthy Eating

Eating a healthy, balanced diet is an important part of maintaining good health, and can help you feel your best. It can be simple, too. Just follow these eight tips to get started.

The two keys to a healthy diet are: Eat the right number of calories for how active you are, so that you balance the energy you consume with the energy you use. If you eat or drink too much, you’ll put on weight. If you eat too little you’ll lose weight. The average man needs around 2,500 calories a day. The average woman needs 2,000 calories. Most adults are eating more calories than they need, and should eat fewer calories. Eat a wide range of foods to ensure that you’re getting a balanced diet and that your body is receiving all the nutrients it needs.

Get started

These practical tips cover the basics of healthy eating, and can help you make healthier choices:

Base your meals on starchy foods

Starchy foods include potatoes, cereals, pasta, rice and bread. Choose wholegrain varieties when you can: they contain more fibre, and can make you feel full for longer. Starchy foods should make up around one third of the foods you eat. Most of us should eat more starchy foods: try to include at least one starchy food with each main meal. Some people think starchy foods are fattening, but gram for gram they contain fewer than half the calories of fat. Learn more in Starchy foods.

Eat lots of fruit and veg

It’s recommended that we eat at least five portions of different types of fruit and veg a day. It’s easier than it sounds. A glass of 100% unsweetened fruit juice can count as one portion, and vegetables cooked into dishes also count. Why not chop a banana over your breakfast cereal, or swap your usual mid-morning snack for some dried fruit? Learn more in 5 A DAY.

Eat more fish

Fish is a good source of protein and contains many vitamins and minerals. Aim for at least two portions a week, including at least one portion of oily fish. Oily fish is high in omega-3 fats, which may help to prevent heart disease. You can choose from fresh, frozen and canned; but remember that canned and smoked fish can be high in salt. Oily fish include salmon, mackerel, trout, herring, fresh tuna, sardines and pilchards. Non-oily fish include haddock, plaice, coley, cod, tinned tuna, skate and hake. Anyone who regularly eats a lot of fish should try to choose as wide a variety as possible.

Cut down on saturated fat and sugar

We all need some fat in our diet. But it’s important to pay attention to the amount and type of fat we’re eating. There are two main types of fat: saturated and unsaturated. Too much saturated fat can increase the amount of cholesterol in the blood, which increases your risk of developing heart disease. Saturated fat is found in many foods, such as hard cheese, cakes, biscuits, sausages, cream, butter, lard and pies. Try to cut down, and choose foods that contain unsaturated rather than saturated fats, such as vegetable oils, oily fish and avocados. For a healthier choice, use a just a small amount of vegetable oil or reduced fat spread instead of butter, lard or ghee. When you're having meat, choose lean cuts and cut off any visible fat. Learn more, and get tips on cutting down, in Eat less saturated fat.

Most people in the UK eat and drink too much sugar. Sugary foods and drinks, including alcoholic drinks, are often high in calories, and could contribute to weight gain. They can also cause tooth decay, especially if eaten between meals. Cut down on sugary fizzy drinks, alcoholic drinks, cakes, biscuits and pastries, which contain added sugars: this is the kind of sugar we should be cutting down on rather than sugars that are found naturally in foods such as fruit and milk. Food labels can help: use them to check how much sugar foods contain. More than 15g of sugar per 100g means that the food is high in sugar. Learn more in Sugars.

Eat less salt

Even if you don’t add salt to your food, you may still be eating too much. About three-quarters of the salt we eat is already in the food we buy, such as breakfast cereals, soups, breads and sauces. Eating too much salt can raise your blood pressure. People with high blood pressure are more likely to develop heart disease or have a stroke. Use food labels to help you cut down. More than 1.5g of salt per 100g means the food is high in salt. Adults and children over 11 should eat no more than 6g of salt a day. Younger children should have even less. Learn more in Salt: the facts.

Get active and be a healthy weight

Eating a healthy, balanced diet plays an important part in maintaining a healthy weight, which is an important part of overall good health. Being overweight or obese can led to health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, certain cancers, heart disease and stroke. Being underweight could also affect your health. Check whether you’re a healthy weight by using our Healthy weight calculator. Most adults need to lose weight, and need to eat fewer calories in order to do this. If you're trying to lose weight, aim to eat less and be more active. Eating a healthy, balanced diet will help: aim to cut down on foods that are high in fat and sugar, and eat plenty of fruit and vegetables. Don't forget that alcohol is also high in calories, so cutting down can help you to control your weight. You can find information and advice to help in Lose weight. If you’re underweight, see Underweight adults. If you're worried about your weight, ask your GP or a dietitian for advice.

Physical activity can help you to maintain weight loss or be a healthy weight. Being active doesn’t have to mean hours at the gym: you can find ways to fit more activity into your daily life. For example, try getting off the bus one stop early on the way home from work, and walking. Being physically active may help reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke and type 2 diabetes. For more ideas, see Get active your way. After getting active, remember not to reward yourself with a treat that is high in calories. If you feel hungry after activity choose foods or drinks that are lower in calories but still filling.

Don't get thirsty

We need to drink about 1.2 litres of fluid every day to stop us getting dehydrated. This is in addition to the fluid we get from the food we eat. All non-alcoholic drinks count, but water, milk and fruit juices are the most healthy. Try to avoid sugary soft and fizzy drinks that are high in added sugars and can be high in calories and bad for teeth. When the weather is warm, or when we get active, we may need more. Learn more in Drinks.

Don’t skip breakfast

Some people skip breakfast because they think it will help them lose weight. In fact, research shows that eating breakfast can help people control their weight. A healthy breakfast is an important part of a balanced diet, and provides some of the vitamins and minerals we need for good health. Wholemeal cereal, with fruit sliced over the top is a tasty and nutritious breakfast.

More information

Learn more about healthy eating in A balanced diet, and read about the energy contained in food in Understanding calories.

Source : NHS

All Power To You

What makes a strong woman, and is it a quality to aspire to? Absolutely, says Hannah Ebelthite. It’s time to celebrate female strength – both physical and emotional

When I asked friends and family what female strength meant to them, the responses varied. A few cited prominent politicians such as Hillary Clinton or Margaret Thatcher. Others looked to top athletes like Victoria Pendleton. Some saw it in women who’d battled adversity, such as military widows, while others described motherhood as the ultimate test of, and testament to, strength. There used to be a sense that, to be a strong woman, you had to act ‘like a man’ toughing it out and being emotionally cold. ‘Increasingly, though, strength is being seen as a positive attribute for a woman,’ says psychotherapist Gael Lindenfield, author of The Emotional Healing Strategy (Michael Joseph, £10.99). ‘It means coping well with setbacks, standing up for what you believe in and, importantly, being yourself. And it’s something women are good at.’ As for physical strength, few women have ever aimed to look powerful muscles tend to be seen as unfeminine and undesirable. But with the approach of London 2012, we’ll soon witness some awe-inspiring displays of female strength and not just in the weightlifting (although Team GB’s Zoe Smith is one to watch). Competing at that level requires physical, mental and emotional strength, qualities we can all learn from our athletes. Here, Healthy takes a positive look at what it means to be a strong woman today.

Let’s get physical

In times of recession, it’s the taller, more athletic female body shapes that become fashionable – think Amazonian supermodels rather than fragile waifs. And while we can’t all look like Cindy Crawford circa 1990, her strong, lean look is one we can aspire to through exercise. You can put aside worries of a beefy, bulky physique, as it’s a shape women don’t naturally acquire. ‘You don’t have the testosterone,’ explains personal trainer Nick Mitchell (www.upfitness.co.uk), who works with top female models, focusing on strength-training to sculpt their shape. ‘A lot of women choose cardio aerobics classes, using the cross trainer or treadmill at the gym to stay in shape. But you should work with weights, too it’s the fastest route to a great body.’

And what many women don’t realise is if you focus on strength, you’ll naturally become slimmer and lose weight. ‘The more muscle you have, the faster your metabolism will be,’ says strength and conditioning coach and triathlete, Karen Weir (www.runwithkaren.com). ‘So the faster you’ll burn fat, even at rest. Then there’s the fact that muscle is more space efficient it might weigh more than fat, but it takes up less room.’ So the stronger you are, the better you’ll fit those skinny jeans.

Strength of mind

Emotional strength may not always be obvious on the surface. ‘There’s a distinction between processing your emotions and toughing it out,’ says Lindenfield. ‘Just because someone appears to be coping well, it doesn’t mean they are.’ In fact, an ability to acknowledge your vulnerabilities tends to mean you are a lot more resilient than someone who pushes on through with a stiff upper lip. Nor does ‘strong’ have to mean shouting the loudest and getting your own way. Persistence and gentle assertiveness can be more powerful.

‘Women are better than men at processing their emotions,’ Lindefield explains. ‘We’re more likely to allow ourselves to heal and go through the process to avoid a backlog of sadness and resentment that can hold us back. We seek comfort by talking to friends. We don’t mind being seen to be sad or angry, and then we can move on. A strong woman is able to go through this process and emerge stronger.’ Another word for strength is resilience. ‘It’s a bit of a buzzword in psychology circles,’ says Lindenfield. ‘Resilience is something we all have to varying degrees.’ It doesn’t mean you don’t get down about things; it means you experience your feelings fully, do what you need to do to cope (without relying on unhealthy mechanisms such as drinking to excess), and come out the other side.

Source : Healthy-Megazine

Tips For Bike In Amsterdam

Biking in Amsterdam is a quintessentially Dutch experience and by far the most popular (and most efficient) form of getting around. But Amsterdam's frenzied flow of traffic and confusing streets can intimidate visitors on two wheels. Before you hop on your cruiser, read these tips for keeping you and your bike safe.

1) Know Where to Ride

Amsterdam's 400 km (249 miles) of bike lanes and paths

(fietspaden) make city cycling safe. Use them. They usually run along the right sides of streets (some two-way lanes are on one side only) and typically feature white lines and bike symbols painted on the road or reddish-colored path.

Amsterdam traffic uses the right side of the road -- this includes bikes. Some streets (many in the historic center and along canals) don't have bike lanes at all. Here, just ride with traffic, or stay to the right to let motorists pass. Large cars and trucks will usually follow behind you.

2) See the Signs

Amsterdam has many signs and signals designed especially for cyclists. Some important ones include:

Bike Traffic Lights: These lights shine red, yellow and green in the shape of a bicycle at most major intersections. Obey them. Trams and other traffic have their own lights that don't always correspond. When a bike light doesn't exist, use the traffic lights meant for cars.

Designated Bike Path/Route: A round sign with a blue background and white bicycle indicates a bike lane or route.

Bikes/Scooters Excepted: A sign with the word uitgezonderd ("except") and bike/scooter symbols means that bikers are the exception to the otherwise posted traffic rule. For example, a round, red sign with a white dash means no entry. Bikers are allowed entry if the white, rectangular uitgezonderd sign is also present.

3) Give Right of Way

Always give right of way to trams, from any direction. Listen for the distinctive clanging of their bells.

The rule for all other vehicles and bikes: give right of way to traffic approaching from the right. So, traffic coming from your left should give you the right of way. Taxis and buses often push the limits on this rule, so err on the side of caution when they approach.

4) Forget the 'When in Rome...' Adage

Local Amsterdam bikers tend to ignore red lights. They tote friends on the backs of their bikes. They ride on the sidewalks. They zip past fellow bikers without warning. They don't use lights at night (which is required by law). They chat on phones while weaving through crowds. They're not to be mimicked!

5) Use Your Hands

Use hand signals when changing course. Just point in the direction you want to go. Doing this will let motorists and other bikers know to yield or not to pass you on that side.

When in doubt at intersections, dismount. There's nothing wrong with getting off the bike and walking it through busy areas (see tip no. 9).

6) Don't Get Stuck in a Rut

Steer clear of tram tracks, which are just the right size to swallow bike tires. If you must cross the tracks (and you will have to at some point), do so at a sharp angle.

Try using suggested bike routes (see tip no. 10), many of which are tram-free.

7) Be a Defensive Biker

You may know the road rules, but that doesn't mean everyone does. The most abundant obstacles you'll encounter on a bike are pedestrian tourists. They unknowingly walk in bike lanes and cross streets without looking. Watch for them and and use your bell to get their attention.

Much to my dismay, scooters are always in and out of the bike lanes. They speed by, scaring the you-know-what out of cyclists. When you hear them coming with their piercingly loud exhaust systems, stay to the right and let them by.

8) Lock it When You Leave It

Never leave a bike unlocked, not even for a minute. Bike theft in Amsterdam is a problem, but it can be avoided.

Lock your bike to a permanent structure (a bike rack, pole or bridge) with a heavy chain or U-lock. Always put the lock through the frame and the front wheel. Also lock the brilliant little device that immobilizes the back wheel (most rental shops provide both).

Look for signs that say Hier geen fietsen plaatsen ("Do not place bicycles here"). If you ignore them, your bike could be confiscated.

9) Keep It Movin' and Clear the Way

Try to keep pace with fellow bikers. You may ride two abreast, as long as your pace doesn't hold up traffic.

Never come to a complete stop in the bike lane or on the street. When walking with your bike, do so on sidewalks or pedestrian areas.

10) Use a Map

Not all Amsterdam streets are meant for cyclists, so "winging it" without a route plan can be inefficient and dangerous. Use a map.

Most rental shops have basic city maps/routes, but these are a bit limited. I highly recommend the € 4 Amsterdam op de fiets ("Amsterdam on the bike") map, available at Amsterdam Tourist Offices. It shows suggested bike routes, areas closed to cyclists, bike repair shops (important for flats), tram lines and even museums and popular attractions. It covers all of Amsterdam, from northern islands to southern suburbs.

Special Tips To Proctect Your Computer

What is Computer Hacking?

Computer hacking is a malicious act, so it is important for your computer and data to protect from Hacking. Computer Hacking refers to the process of making malicious modifications to a software or hardware to accomplish an aim outside the original creator's objective. Hackers are usually expert programmers who usually see hacking as a real life application of their skills.

Hacking has become a nuisance in recent times and the protection from hacking has become more complex. Infact, the hackers have become so good that even the software giants are feeling a headache. Nintendo recently reported a loss of $975 million due to privacy and Microsoft has lost an estimated $900 million in five years.

Well, the Giants are not the only targets of these hackers, even common individuals are not safe. The dangers range from little thefts to sponsored terrorism. These include stealing personal information and spying your activities. They can get to your secrets and destroy your credit. The dangers are possibly endless.

How to protect from Hacking

Prevention is Better Than Cure. The problem of computer hacking has become really serious. But there are some basic methods which are usually the best to guarantee a Hacker-free system. Here, I am going to introduce some basic tips to save your computer and data from hackers.

Using Antivirus Software

Antivirus software are one of the basic tools for your data and computer to protect from hacking. Antivirus software act as a protecting net that catches any potential threat before it reaches your system. They can prevent unauthorized access to your computer, protects your system from viruses and cloaks your data ports from intruders searching for any opening.

Nowadays anti virus software are completely automated. Go for the best when choosing anti virus software and make sure that you scan your system for viruses atleast once a week. Norton antivirus from Symantec is one of the leading products in the industry. Avast is another great antivirus tool to protect from hacking.

Using Firewall

What is a Firewall?

A firewall is a set of programs located at the network gateway server which protects a private network from unauthorized access from other networks. The term firewall is originally referred to a wall intended to confine a fire.

A firewall protects your computer from offensive websites and potential hackers. It keeps your data and information safe from unwanted intruders. Firewalls are designed to prevent unauthorized access to your network, much like a locked door.Thus firewall is a vital tool for your strategy against hackers so don't forget to set up one for your system. Microsoft has a built-in firewall software but you can also try the Symantec firewall.

Using Anti Spyware Software

What is a Spyware?

A spyware is a self installing software which secretly gathers information about a person's computing activities such as surfing habits and viewed sites. Spywares are truly a hacker's tool, not only collecting personal information but also interfering with user control by installing additional software and redirecting web browsers.

Anti spyware software are designed to save your computer from hackers. They not only protect your computer by detection and removal of spywares but also preventing automatic installation of these malicious programs. Spysweeper is a great anti spyware software to guarantee a spyware free computer.

Email Security

Email is one of the leading hacker's tools. Hackers use emails to transmit malicious software to your computer. Emails are usually very cheap which gives the hackers loads of opportunities. One of the basic tips to prevent hacking is to be extra careful with emails. The most important tip is that you should never hand out your real email address to a stranger. Never open an email arriving from an unknown source and never try to open an attachment with an email if you don't know the sender. Avira antivirus is a useful tool to filter your emails for potential threats as well as provide premium protection for your computer.

Software updates

Hackers are always searching for security gaps in your system. Anti virus and anti spyware software usually lose their effectiveness with time as new and more advanced malicious programs are created by hackers.

Its important to go for the latest security software in the market to guarantee maximum security from threats. Make sure you frequently check out for software updates or set your software to update automatically.

Internet Security

Being extra careful while surfing is the best way to protect your computer from hackers. Simple precautions can mean the difference between a secure and vulnerable system. A great way to save yourself from hackers is to avoid visiting hacker controlled sites usually committed to porn, free downloads and online gaming. Also be extra careful while downloading something from an unknown source. Never ignore a security warning about a site. Its better to be safe than sorry.

Educate Yourself

When working for an offensive against hackers, the most important step is to educate yourself. Hacking is a dynamic topic with developments arising every moment. Hackers are intelligent and innovative and you should be prepared for it.

Computers are vulnerable. No matter what you do, its impossible to be 100% save. Important data like personal detail and credit card information should never be saved directly on a computer. A password protector is a great way to protect this data.

Another great way to secure your computer is to use a password on your computer. Well, it can't really save you if your computer gets stolen (in case of a laptop) but can save you from unauthorized people who can reach to your computer.

Windows update

Microsoft Windows is the best OS which comes with almost all the tools to protect you and your computer from hacking. To make the most of this, it is important to keep your windows updated. An easy way to do this is by checking for updates at Microsoft Windows Update. You can also set your windows security software to check for updates automatically so you don't miss anything.

Conclusion

Hacking is a developing topic but basics are always the most effective to protect you and your precious resources from hacking. Follow these easy tips to protect from hacking, your data, your computer and your personal information. If you have any questions than feel free to ask by in comments below.

Safety Tips: Holiday Shopping / Safety Shopping

Shopping during the holiday season can present unique danger. Taking a few prevention measures can help keep your holiday season joyous.

The holiday season is a time when busy people can become careless and vulnerable to theft and other holiday crime. The following tips from the Los Angeles Police Department Crime Prevention Section can help you be more careful, prepared and aware during the holiday season.

• Shop during daylight hours whenever possible. If you must shop at night, go with a friend or family member.
• Dress casually and comfortably.
• Avoid wearing expensive jewelry.
• Do not carry a purse or wallet, if possible.
• Always carry your driver's license or identification along with necessary cash, checks and/or a credit card you expect to use.
• Even though you are rushed and thinking about a thousand things, stay alert to your surroundings.
• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
• Pay for purchases with a check or credit card when possible.
• Keep cash in your front pocket.
• Notify the credit card issuer immediately if your credit card is lost, stolen or misused.
• Keep a record of all of your credit card numbers in a safe place at home.
• Be extra careful if you do carry a wallet or purse. They are the prime targets of criminals in crowded shopping areas, transportation terminals, bus stops, on buses and other rapid transit.
• Avoid overloading yourself with packages. It is important to have clear visibility and freedom of motion to avoid mishaps.
• Beware of strangers approaching you for any reason. At this time of year, con-artists may try various methods of distracting you with the intention of taking your money or belongings.

Source: LAPD Crime Prevention Section

Safety Tips: Car Seat Safety For Baby And Child /Seo Safety

We all know that the roads are a hazardous place for children (and grown ups, for that matter) but how much attention do you pay to what's going on in your car?

In 2004, 24 children aged 0-11 were killed and 372 seriously injured while travelling in a car. The largest group within this were the 0-4's of whom 15 were killed. Another 2,077 were slightly injured in cars, and yet the number of products on the market for in-car safety is mind boggling, as are the strict standards that car seats must meet.

Despite this array of products, a survey conducted by the Transport Research Laboratory in 2004 showed that 5% of 0-4 year olds were not restrained in any way in the rear of cars.

Police Spot Checks As of 2006, it is now illegal for any child under the age of 12, or less than 135cm tall, to travel in a car without a booster seat. Since the new laws came into force, Police have been carrying out spot checks on children in cars and if they are not securely fitted following the legal guidelines, the driver can be given an on the spot fixed penalty fine of £30 with a maximum fine of £500.

Where do they carry out these checks? Outside schools. The morning and afternoon school runs are perhaps unsurprisingly the peak times for injury to children in cars. Often parents are parked illegally for a start so the element of rush and 'just get in, will you' creeps in.

For more details of the new laws regarding child car seats, please check out the article aboutNew Car Seat Laws for 2006 on our sister site www.safekids.co.uk.

You can protect your children by using a properly fitted, purpose made child car seat which meets the current safety standards and is appropriate for your child's weight and height. Try before you buy and get a trained professional to demonstrate how to fit the seat. Most of the large motoring accessory outlets like Halfords have trained fitters. Related on Safe Travel...

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When fitting a child car seat in your car, always follow the manufacturer's instructions thoroughly and allow plenty of time; it isn't always a quick process and you will find yourself climbing all over the car, but it is worth it to have a securely fitted seat. The same applies when it comes to strapping your baby or child into the seat - make sure you check the straps and that the seatbelt locks when you give it a jerk.

Remember to make sure your child car seat is properly fitted every time you use it. Seat belts and straps have a habit of loosening when a child has been wriggling around in it for several journeys. Always keep a copy of the fitting instructions in your car.

Which Seat and When? Child seats are designed for various weights of child. As a general guide:

Baby seats are for babies weighing up to 13kgs (birth to 9-12 months) or until they can support their own head. They face backwards and are fitted into the front or rear of the car with a seat belt. They should never be used in the front where the front seat is protected with a frontal airbag.

Child car seats are for children weighing between 9 and 18 kgs (aged nine months to about four years) and have their own straps. They face forwards and are usually fitted in the back seat of a car with a seat belt.

Booster seats are for children weighing 15 to 25kgs and up to 135cm in height (aged about 4-11). They are designed to raise them so they can use an adult seat belt safely across both their chest and hips.

Booster cushions are for children 22kg (3st 6lb). These are similar to booster seats, in that they raise the child up enough so that they can use an adult seatbelts safely.

Also, try not to get distracted by your children in a car. Many on-road accidents involving women are caused because they were turning round to talk to children who were playing up. If things get out of control in the car, find somewhere safe to pull over and deal with it.

Try and limit toys to non-missiles i.e. things that can't easily be thrown at you and ideally, put them in a bag and if they need distracting, put the radio on.

What if my child is travelling in another car? Then take the seat you use out of your car and fit it into their car - properly. Don't be tempted to rush or not bother, even if it is a short journey.

A Checklist

By law, you have to wear a seat belt if one is fitted. Children under 12 are not allowed to sit in the front seat unless they are properly restrained and using the correct child booster seat. Children over the age of 12 (or taller than 135cm or 4ft 5in) can only do so if wearing an adult seatbelt.

To learn more about the new laws - see our article New Car Seat Laws for 2006 Never place a rear-facing seat near an active frontal airbag. Forward-facing restraints should be as far back from the airbag as possible. Always check the car handbook.

Never modify a child car seat or seat belt to try to make it fit. Check the advice in your car handbook and the advice from the child seat manufacturer. If in doubt call the manufacturer's helpline or speak to your local Road Safety Officer.

Lap and diagonal belts are safer than lap-only belts.

safety: Train Travel /safety google community

A lot of people criticise train travel, and say it's not what it used to be. But it can still be a fast, often inexpensive form of transport, not only between cities, but between countries. Like anything else, though, you need to think a little to keep yourself safe in the station and on the train. However, by putting a few simple rules into practice, you can ensure a pleasant, trouble-free journey.

At The Station

Pay attention to the timetables. They can often change without warning, and trains can be delayed. Stay on the main concourse or in the waiting room until it is close to the time for your train. Not only will it be warmer than a draughty platform, with more people around, it'll be safer. Try never to be alone on a platform, especially at night. These days all stations are equipped with CCTV, but it's better not to take chances. Keep your luggage with you at all times in the station. That might seem obvious, but all too often people walk away to check something, return and find their belongings stolen. All your important papers and cash should be kept on you, and should be secure. A wallet in a back pocket can quickly become a pickpocket's target. Women should make sure their handbags are closed or zipped, and if the strap allows, carry them across your body. Finally, if you see unattended luggage, or anything that might seem suspicious, report it immediately.

On The Train

Most trains these days feature extended coaches. Sit in one where there are other people (likewise, if your train has compartments, don't sit alone). Whenever possible, stow your luggage on the rack above your seat, where you can keep it close. If your case is too big, use the luggage rack at the end of the coach, but first remove anything important or valuable.

Never try and open the outside doors when the train is moving. That's especially true if you're travelling with children. Don't allow them to wander unaccompanied on the train at any time, even to the buffet cart. If you leave your seat for any reason, always take all your valuables with you. Taking every piece of luggage if you need the toilet might be impractical, but at least you can safeguard the really important items. The advice about pickpockets is just as valid on board, too; don't assume you're safe once the train starts moving. Safeguard purses and wallets at all times. That's especially true if you're crossing international borders where you'll have to present your passport. Also, make sure your ticket is readily accessible. There's nothing worse than having to dig through everything when the conductor arrives!

Leaving

Be sure you take everything with you. Be particularly careful when alighting from the train, especially if you have a large piece of luggage; the step down can be awkward and dangerous, especially for the elderly. Outside the station, be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Walk on busy, well-lit streets. If you're being met, wait in an area with good lighting and plenty of people. Taxi ranks can always be found directly outside the station. Always use one from there, a proper licensed vehicle rather than a minicab, whose fares could turn out be a nasty, expensive surprise.

Air Travel During Pregnancy

Air travel is usually considered safe during a pregnancy up until about the eight month or 32 weeks. This is just a generalisation however, and pregnant women should always speak to their health professionals prior to flying in order to find out if they have any specific restrictions. During the boarding process, take advantage of pre-boarding procedures and during the flight do some basic “exercise” to promote circulation and make sure you stay hydrated.

Speaking With A Health Professional

• Before flying, pregnant women should speak with their GP or midwife and explain their travel plans. Give details of:
• The length of flight (in hours) How many flights will be taken and how close together

A health professional may give specific instructions for in flight activities and some may advise against flying if you have a condition such as severe anaemia, a clotting disorder or placental insufficiency which could make flying dangerous. Depending on which stage of pregnancy you're at, an airline may also require a doctor’s note. If you fly frequently, whether as a passenger, cabin crew or pilot, should also let your GP know in case the cosmic radiation levels at altitude are deemed a threat to the foetus.

Take Advantage of Pre-Boarding

Many airlines offer several minutes of “pre-boarding” prior to a flight and invite those travelling with small children or with limited mobility to take advantage of this less hectic time to find their seats. Pregnant women who find their mobility impeded (particularly in the second half of a pregnancy) may want to take advantage of this time. Not only will you feel less rushed, but with fewer people around there is also less risk of being jostled or involved in an accident.

Exercises To Promote Circulation

When flying during pregnancy, take great care to “exercise” and promote circulation. There is a risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) so keeping your feet and hands moving and get up every 30 minutes or so to walk around the cabin (when allowed), flexing the feet, circling the ankles and bending from the knees .

Stay Hydrated

Dehydration often leads to fatigue. Since many pregnant women find themselves fatigued anyway, staying hydrated during a flight is imperative to fight against the dehydrating effects of a low humidity plane cabin. Water is the best option for pregnant women while flying and should be consumed throughout the duration of the flight, not just with meals. Fruit juices and teas may also help hydrate, though sugary soft drinks should be avoided.

Follow General Safety Procedures

Like all other passengers, pregnant women should follow the general airline safety procedures to ensure a safe and comfortable flight. Wearing a seat belt (under the abdomen) at all times and holding onto seat-backs if standing or walking are two very easy ways to stay safe. Ask a member of cabin crew to lift your bag from the overhead luggage compartment.

Protecting Your Business Name

Think you have a clever name for your business? Good! But you also need to make sure that name isn't being used by someone else--and that you protect it once you're sure it's yours to keep.

Choosing a business name can be one of the most gratifying tasks in the startup phase, but naming your business is unfortunately more complicated than simply picking a clever name for your startup. The issues surrounding the choice of a name generally fall into two categories: mandatory government requirements for registration of business names and optional registrations that provide more comprehensive name protection.

Required Registrations

1. Trade or fictitious name. If you'll be using a name for your business other than your personal name, you'll want to register it to ensure that other businesses can't use the name you've chosen. This registration process will also help you avoid legal problems with competitors by keeping you from choosing a name that's confusingly similar to that of another business. Registration of an assumed or fictitious name is also referred to as a "doing business as" or dba. In most states, this registration is done at the county level by filling out a short form and paying a small fee.

Usually a sole proprietorship or a partnership requires such a registration, but it may also be required of a corporation if the company will be operating under both the corporate name and a dba. For example, if you've incorporated your business as the XYZ Corporation but will be operating as the Sunshine Bakery, you'll need to register the Sunshine Bakery as a dba unless, of course, your first name is Sunshine and your last name is Bakery.

2. Incorporating. As part of the process of incorporating, you'll be registering your corporate name with the secretary of state in the state you'll be doing business. This registration process will reveal whether any other business has a confusingly similar corporate name. Following the filing of your corporate papers, you have the right and the obligation to use the corporate name throughout the state in which you filed.

However, you don't have the exclusive right to the name because other unincorporated businesses may already be using it as a trade name, and other businesses may be using the name as a trade or service mark. In other words, your registration has provided you with the exclusive right to use XYZ Inc. That is, your corporate name with the corporate designation such as Incorporated or Inc., Corporation or Corp., Company or Co., Limited or Ltd. is protected.

However, depending on the situation, prior use of the name as a dba, trade or service mark by another business may prevent your use of the corporate name if use of the name will confuse customers. Therefore, it's always wise to conduct a name search using governmental and nongovernmental sources such as telephone books, city directories and industry trade publications for your industry.

Optional Registrations

Whether you seek additional name protection beyond what's required for your business or your products or services depends for the most part on the size of your business and whether you might operate beyond your local geographic area. It's a good idea to conduct a wider name search before choosing a name for your business if you anticipate operating regionally or nationally in the future. To do so, you should conduct a search of the federal register of trade and service marks. You may refer to www.uspto.govfor the patent and trademark office information. If you conclude that the name you've chosen is available, you should look into registering the name as a business trademark or service mark. Although there's a cost attached to these registrations, it's far more costly to have to change a business, product or service name in "midstream" because you've infringed on someone else's name.

Trademarks or service marks consist of two parts: the noun that tells what kind of product or service you're talking about (for example tissues), and the descriptive word or words that identify it as being different from all others (Kleenex). The best trademarks or service marks are those such as Kleenex that are coined words because they're distinctive, and you can keep others from using them. If you're using a mark, be sure to:

• Capitalize the first letter.
• State on your packaging and/or advertising that your company owns the mark.
• If you've registered the mark, use an R with a circle around it to indicate this.
• If you've registered the mark only within your state or not at all, use the letters TM for trademark or SM service mark to indicate your ownership.
• Enforce your rights by notifying other businesses or the media if they're improperly using your mark.

Like every other business decision, the issues surrounding business names can be complicated, and it's always wise to seek information and assistance. In addition to books and websites, you may want to visit your local Small Business Development Center for individualized consulting assistance at no charge.