PAT Testing - Training Your Staff Or Doing It Yourself

The legal requirements for regular testing of all electrical equipment in work environments and public places have made testing a major growth area for electricians over recent years. Many staff members without electrical training, such as maintenance staff and caretakers, are also being nominated by their employers to carry out electrical safety testing.

Shocks from electrical installations or equipment may lead to falls from heights. Electrical workers are not the only workers at risk, any workers using poorly installed or faulty appliances are at risk from shocks or fires. This means that, although the currently recommended portable appliance testing techniques, record keeping and test frequencies are considered to be best practice for ensuring electrical equipment is properly maintained, they are not 'legal requirements'.

The Electricity at Work Regulations place a legal responsibility on employers, employees and self-employed persons to comply with the provisions of the regulations and take reasonably practicable steps to ensure that no danger results from the use of such equipment. This therefore requires the implementation of a systematic and regular program of maintenance, inspection and testing.

A comprehensive PAT testing training course will include details of legislation, electrical shock, burn and fire hazards, user checks, formal visual inspections, combined inspection and testing, construction of Class 1, II & III portable electrical appliances, fuse ratings, electrical plugs, testing computers, ICT / IT equipment, power tools, IEC cords & extension leads.

Good training courses should also include things such as record keeping, test results and labeling with the pass and fail pat testing labels.

Specialist training in the testing of sensitive IT equipment and appliances with mains filters would be a necessity for some roles.

Training courses are put in place so you can learn the procedures for pat testing, and the use of PAT testing equipment. The student will also be able to test safely, and without harm to others once the training is complete.

Pat testing is an important health and safety issue, you can find more information at pat testing or pat testing info

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Bachelor in Fire Science Degrees - An Interesting Career Choice

If you have ever been interested in getting into a career in firefighting, fire investigation or fire safety then one of the many specialized or general Bachelor in Fire Science degrees may be just the course of study you have been looking for. These courses may also be very applicable for those working towards becoming a first responder such as an emergency medical technician. There are vast possibilities for careers in areas such as fire insurance underwriting, fire preventing, safety planning, software design with regards to fire prevention and safety and even for those that want to work to become hazardous material specialists or managers. Graduates can also continue on to Master level programs within the field or within a related field of study.

Although these degrees will cover many of the scientific and theoretical approaches to firefighting, fire investigation and fire safety management and planning, they will also go well beyond these basics. Students will learn about management of crisis situations, coordination of first responders in the event of fires and disasters as well as management of the scene. Human management, including how to coordinate emergency services within a community with a given set of resources, is an important component of all of the programs in this field. Leadership skills, effective communication and how to manage both people and equipment are all major components in these classes. Understanding models of safety as well as fire prevention are key points in training. In general, programs also provide students with an in depth understanding of the theory behind management and prevention, which will be invaluable information.

Of course one of the biggest issues in any of these programs is the prevention of fires as well as the safety aspects. These topics tend to form the core of the program with students learning how and why they spread in various building and places as well as how to control and manage them in a safe and effective manner. They will also focus on helping firefighters and other first responders through effective human resource development and training, ideally preparing graduates to move into entry and senior level management positions within related careers. Some might find that they would like to take classes just for their overall knowledge not necessarily to advance themselves in their careers. Think about it, if you worked in an industry where you could possibly be harmed while at work wouldn't you want to keep up to date with industry news and information?

Many of the students completing these degrees are not kid's right out of high school. In fact, many of the people completing these courses are current professionals in some aspect of fire fighting, insurance, prevention and safety or even prevention program development that wish to enhance their theoretical knowledge to advance in their career. Some may even wish to open their own consulting or marketing companies that specialize in safety or prevention within a specific sector. Many professionals working for state agencies work hours that may allow for side jobs. Entrepreneurs might want to take advantage of a second job to help supplement income, and therefore online programs are right for them.

Many of the degree programs are designed to be completed online, allowing working professionals to continue to work full time while still earning their degree. Online Bachelor of Fire Science degrees are generally flexible in their time frame for completion with some programs accelerated to allow early completion. Other programs are extended to allow students to complete it part-time. Either option will still allow students to enhance their ability to manage crisis situations, understand prevention and safety as well as learn the legal and practical aspects of handling emergency and crisis situations. In this field your true option for advancement is more education.

Andy West is a writer for Bachelors Degree Online, offering elite online education for those interested in obtaining Bachelor in Fire Science Degrees at your own time and pace. For more information please visit BachelorsDegreeOnline.com.

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Three Must-Have Safety Supplies For Your Boat

Even if you only enjoy boating for recreational reasons, you are still required to have basic safety boat equipment onboard at all times. It's very important that you have certain, safe boat supplies with you while boating. So what type of safe boat supplies will you need? Well, they're all pretty obvious-life jackets, paddles, ladders, lights, rope and anchor, first aid kit, etc. There are some additional safety boat supplies that you should consider using, as well.

A VHF marine radio, for instance, should be equipped on your boat should the need ever arise for you to get a hold of someone during an emergency. VHF marine radios are equipped with Digital Selective Calling (DSC), so it will be very easy to you to call the Coast Guard or other boaters close to your area. You can either have a traditional VHF radio installed on your boat, or buy a handheld one. It's totally up to you, all that matters is that you have some way of getting a hold of help in times of distress.

Another good idea for boat equipment (and this may be obvious to some), is to have a GPS tracking device installed. This will make it easier for the Coast Guard to find you after you contact them with your VHF marine radio. A GPS device will alert the Coast Guard to your exact position so that they can find you as quickly as possible.

The third piece of extra safety boat equipment you need onboard is a Emergency Position Indicator Radio Beacon (EPIRB). If your boat begins to capsize or sink, the EPIRB will alert the Coast Guard.. They will then make you their top priority, and will use all of their resources to get to you. It will transmit a beacon to the Coast Guard, and they will pick it up as quickly as possible and send rescue your way.

Article authored by Elisha Westmen. Now you can learn all you wanted about Boat Propellers and even Boat Gear.

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Do More With Your Career With a Degree in Fire & Safety Engineering Technology

Were you one of those kids that always dreamed of being a fireman but now as an adult wish you could do even more with your career? Then the College of Justice and Safety at Eastern Kentucky University's Bachelor of Science in Fire & Safety Engineering Technology and Certificate Program in Fire Administration online degree program may be ideally suited for you. Designed to meet the busy and hectic needs of those working in today's fire and safety professions, Eastern Kentucky University aims to offer a quality and comprehensive program that will give students a better understanding of the challenges in the fire and safety industry while preparing them to propel their careers forward.

Your education in fire and safety engineering technology can equip you with the foundation that you need for pursuing leadership roles and career advancement. The carefully selected curriculum is "designed to provide students with a broad background in the management of first response operations dealing with fire safety, as well as industrial and community disasters." Generally, the Bachelor of Science in Fire & Safety Engineering Technology requires the completion of fifty-three credits, fourteen of which are free electives. The online degree program will cover courses in fire and emergency management, hazardous materials, safety analysis and many other vital issues to the fire and safety field. The College of Justice and Safety at Eastern Kentucky University also offers a less intense option for those who wish to only obtain the fire & safety engineering technology certificate. For certification, students would only be required to complete a total of around thirty-four credits.

Admissions to the program in Fire and Safety Engineering Technology at Eastern Kentucky University is pretty simple and straight forward requiring a completed application, a minimum GPA of 2.0 (on the 4.0 scale) and a score of at least 870 on the SAT or 18 on the ACT. The minimum test score requirement may be waived under certain circumstances, so if this is a concern be sure to speak to an advisor in Eastern Kentucky University's admissions department. The application fee for the program is $30 and applications are accepted year round. The program has five 8-week terms through out the year so you can begin your studies at a time that works best for you.

Eastern Kentucky University's program in Fire & Safety Engineering Technology has long been heralded as one of the top ranked programs in the nation, and since they now offer the courses online you are able to benefit from the program right from your own home.. With a chance to learn from both nationally and internationally recognized leaders in the fire and safety industry, Eastern Kentucky University offers a quality educational experience for $350 per credit hour which is somewhat comparable to most online degree programs in the country. And since Eastern Kentucky University's program is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS ) you can rest assured that your tuition dollars are going toward a recognized degree program that you can be proud of.

How Fire Safety Training Is Vital For Your Business

Today training your staff in fire safety should be a major concern for all bosses and managing directors. Not only is there a liability issue but making sure your staff undergo training that ensures the safe evacuation of a building is a vital responsibility for anyone who runs a workspace. Not only should safety training show people what to do in the event of a fire, it should also educate on how to help reduce the risk of fire.

It is unfortunate that a lot of people still die in fires at work due to a lack of knowledge as a result of non-existent safety training. As a person who is responsible for people while they are at work, I am sure many bosses would not want the lives of their staff on their conscience.

Not only is the human element expensive, but the financial costs of fire in business premises reaches astronomic amounts annually. With some fires costing millions it is unsurprising that almost eighty percent of businesses fail to recover from fire, hence safety training is a necessity for any conscientious businessman.

Fire is fundamentally caused when three elements combine; these elements are heat, fuel and oxygen. Effective safety training will ensure your members of staff recognise the importance of keeping these elements separate and subsequently decreasing any instances of fire. Fuel is anything that a fire may feed off, from paper wood to computers; heat can be a spark, naked flame, cigarette butt or even friction. Recognising the warning signs will be apparent after efficient training.

Training will also allow you to construct a plan of action in case a fire breaks out. Putting in place established safety procedures that cope with the effects of fire efficiently is essential to ensuring everyone is evacuated quickly and the effects of fire are limited. Regular refresher courses for members of staff should also be employed as keeping these plans fresh in the mind will lead to them being carried out effectively.

Tackling of a fire should always be left to the professionals; however through training it is possible for members of your staff to utilise the fire safety equipment present in your workplace. The use of extinguishers takes skill and knowledge in how to tackle fires.

Competency is a major issue as it is easy to panic in the event of a fire and only through regular use will staff members be able to utilise a fire extinguisher to its full ability. Knowing how and where to attack a fire is vital to reducing the effects the inferno may have ensuring that the flames are subdued rapidly.

It is often worth putting in place a number of workers who are fully trained in all manner of safety issues. Generally these are called fire wardens and can be a crucial resource ensuring staff members are evacuated according to safety procedures. A warden should also be able to fight a fire and inform the authorities of all the vital information they may need. Training should ensure your warden can recognise the nature of the fire as well as its intensity.

Fire safety training should be a major consideration for anyone who has a staff underneath them. Ensuring their safety is of paramount importance as well as the safety of your business's resources and property. Through training it is possible to reduce the effects of a fire and in an ideal world prevent one from ever breaking out. It may seem like an expense that is not worth the initial outlay but when it comes to the cost of a human life, no price is too high.

The Importance of Attending Fire Risk Assessment Training

Business establishments and commercial buildings can be found almost everywhere in the bustling city streets, urban areas of the country and almost all over the world today. Exemplary management skills are needed to maintain and improve the growth of these institutions. However, all of the ideas, assets, materials and such may be gone in just a few minutes if proper care and attention is not given to the safety and protection of the building or offices against fire. Having fire risk assessment training to your employees just might be the answer to such pressing issue.

If a business owner opts to employ five or more people into a group, such person is required by law to have an updated fire safety risk assessment. The owner can also delegate this responsibility to another person who shall be held responsible for such duty. Appointing such person to coordinate fire safety arrangements is being imposed by the new regulatory reform for fire safety order.

Having to manage the risk of fire in the workplace is an important job. The first and essential step in doing so is by carrying out a fire risk assessment. It is important to find out the status or where the business establishment stands when the event of fire calamity arrives. You may well have excellent procedures built up in place to ensure the safety of the people and the premises, fully functional fire system precautions and such, but having such risk assessment will help to verify all of these tools and ensure that they are working properly and still functioning effectively.

Carrying out a fire risk assessment requires for one to be able to identify potential and actual fire risks and hazards, and also the impact of the persons in the premises those fire risks present. Necessary measures have to be taken to eliminate, reduce and manage those risks.

The work of assessing fire risk can be done in-house or by a well trained professional. Both have the same pros and cons with regards to the quality of safety it can provide to the business establishment. Having it in-house or doing the assessment by your self and other office staff may be quite tricky. Many things have to be considered before deciding on such. Important matters must be taken into account. For instance, if the group has decided on doing the assessment by their own, then the correct tools and important principles in doing such task must be considered. This is kind of risky though since doing the assessment without being equipped well may as well be equivalent to doing no fire risk assessment at all.

Another option would be to have a fire safety expert make and complete the fire risk assessment on your behalf. Opting for such would entail a considerable amount of money. However, for those who would like to do the work by themselves and have the assurance of safety and confidence in the process, then choosing the third option might be a win-win situation. Having you and your office staff attend fire risk assessment training would be best in such situation.

Getting enough confidence and peace of mind that all is well when it comes to calamity handling or fire mishaps may be just one of the benefits of having such precautionary measures. By attending such training, not only will you get to evaluate the risks of fire in your office, but also know how to correctly handle the situation well if ever you are in the middle of it. The correct tools and procedures taught to you and to your office staff will have that sense of confidence and safety imposed on you, the office, and the atmosphere in your work.

Jo is a writer for 'Phoenix Safety Services Ltd' (http://www.phoenixsafety.co.uk), a leading specialist in bespoke Health and Safety Training that are given to a wide range of customers all over UK and Europe. If your firm is searching for experts who can give Fire Risk Assessment Training to their representatives and train them with the useful knowledge and skills to perform fire risk assessments and plan fire protection procedures or if you want to curb the danger of fire from occurring in your workplace then have a look at Phoenix Safety Services Ltd.

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Planning for the Best Results No Matter What Curves Life May Bring - Emergency and Safety Supplies We All Should Have

It seems that recent times have given us so many reminders that we should all have at least the basic emergency and safety supplies in our homes and cars in the unfortunate event that we should ever need them. We've seen the disasters on television for some time now major earthquakes, 9/11, tsunamis, hurricanes. It's sad but true that there are not only "Acts of God" but also acts of man that can leave us isolated and waiting for help to arrive. In many cases, with just the most basic assortment of emergency and safety supplies though, the waiting can be manageable and in some cases the difference between life and death. But those reminders and that knowledge alone is not enough it's taking action now and getting your emergency and safety supplies together before you actually need them that could make a difference. Being prepared isn't expecting bad things to happen as some people think, it's planning for the best results no matter what curves life may bring.

When most people think of putting together an emergency preparedness kit they immediately think of extra food, water, first aid supplies, batteries, candles, flashlights and a radio. While all of these are important for basic survival, there are a few unexpected items that are also easy to keep on hand that may prove valuable in times of crisis. Although basic industrial safety supplies may not come to mind first thing when assembling your emergency kit just a few of these safety items that are easy to gather and store together, may be life saving in challenging times. Imagine how useful a dust mask or eye protection glasses could be following a catastrophe of even minor magnitude. Safety gloves and ear plugs could also prove beneficial in numerous situations. If you should need to dig yourself or another out, or are being exposed to poor sanitary conditions, these items could all be helpful and protect you from further harm than you may already have endured. They are compact and light, inexpensive and easy to store. There really is no reason not to be prepared. You might even consider adding in a Tyvek coverall to protect yourself from hazardous dusts and other particles such as lead.

If space is not an issue there are some larger items that people who are in areas prone to natural disasters often store that could be useful in any location during times of distress. A personal power generator is most common in this category for those who face electricity outages. Basic sanitary supplies including a porta-potty in the event that there is no water or severe plumbing problems can help keep conditions bearable. There are also emergency lighting systems that can be charged by a handcrank that although more expensive to obtain and store than standard flashlights can provide comforting light when not available from the usual sources and they don't rely on batteries.

Such basic emergency and safety supplies can be helpful not only in our daily lives such as during a minor power outage, but in the unfortunate event of a catastrophic emergency could prove to be the very things that pulls us through. Taking time now to prepare is wise and responsible and also very easy. Complete lists of all items to include in your emergency preparedness kit, including details on the types of food that can be stored well and how much water to keep on hand, are easily available online. Make a little time today, you and your loved ones are worth it.

Home Safety Necessity: Home Security Dog

Home safety necessity: home security dog

Believe it or not, alarms aren't the end all or be all of home security.

Alarm devices galore

The fact of the matter is that there are many other security devices that could be installed in your house that has the ability to prevent burglars from getting in your residence. Many of these security devices are inexpensive and simple.

Secure entrance points

The key to home safety is by securing any and all entry points. This basically mean that all doors should consist of solid and strong material (not glass or plastic) and should be secured appropriately to the door hinges and must have locks that are resistant to tampering.

It is basically ideal that there is an extra deadbolt that is put in the doors during the night and so should be made from metal that is strong.

Secure windows

Also, windows must be made out of tough glass, preferably glass that is double glazed that it is impossible to be broken in. Locks for windows aren't common but they help greatly in security.

Secure the garden

Securing the garden is also possible. There are burglars who enter through the back than the front house.

Fences of houses should therefore be high as well as measures to prevent climbing must also be installed. This includes paint that has anti-climbing properties as well as spikes.

Hedges could also be used instead of fences.

Get a home security dog

This is another measure that could be done. Getting a home security dog is a ingenious way to guard your house and use it against any burglars or intruders.

Intruders generally don't want to particularly mess around with dogs.

Putting up a “Beware of Dog” poster is also an effective way to veer burglars away. Take note that small dogs aren't great home security dogs as they generally don't appear scary.

German shepherds are better home security dogs than any other basically because of the dog’s large size as well as their very strong home security dog guard instincts that inherently make them hostile to any stranger.

All in all, a home security dog is a better alternative and a very helpful option to ensure that the home is safe and secure.

Besides being able to guard the house, a home security dog could also serve to be your courageous and consistent companion, as well as guard, both in the home and outside.