Archives

Getting the Word Out with Mass Notification Systems

Mass notification systems utilize a number of integrated communication devices and software to alert building occupants about a potentially dangerous situation and facilitate the proper action and response. They represent a very beneficial added layer of life safety protection.

The Importance of Security Communication Integration at Your Facility

One chilling realization stemming from the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks was the inability for the first responders across all disciplines—police, fire, and paramedics—to communicate with each other using the same radio frequencies. Are private sector security practitioners any better at reaching or talking to each other in routine conditions and serious emergencies?

Medical staff rushing patient through hospital on gurney

ASCO Developing Standards for Handling Hazardous Drugs in Healthcare Facilities

Healthcare facilities are hectic workplaces that are fraught with hazards, not the least of which are potent, potentially toxic drugs. As such, an American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) panel began work on developing standards for the safe handling of hazardous drugs in healthcare facilities. The expert panel endorsed three sets of existing guidelines and […]

Chemical Security

Chemical Security Compliance for Your Facility: 5 Important Steps

Dangerous chemicals necessitate adequate security to mitigate risks. If you are a facility with a chemical designated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) as a chemical of interest (COI), you may only have 60 days after taking possession of the COI to initiate a security screening process under the Chemical Facility Anti-Terrorism Standards […]

Green community concept

Facilities Targeted in First EPA Enforcement Actions of 2019

Although the EPA is at the moment essentially crippled in the midst of the ongoing government shutdown, we have a few enforcement items that to report from late 2018. Our latest roundup of five cases includes RCRA, EPCRA, and TSCA violations, several of which were related to negligent activity within facilities.

Facility with Trees

Is CPTED Still in Use Today?

The security concept known as CPTED—or Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design—started back in the 1970s with the publication of architect Oscar Newman’s book, Defensible Spaces. His thinking has influenced building designers, facility maintenance directors, security consultants, and even police agencies since that time. The question today is, does it still work?

Electrical panel with clear safety warning

Graphic Products Guide Streamlines Control Panel Labeling

Learn how to minimize facility downtime and maximize panel safety, maintenance BEAVERTON, OREGON – Without proper planning, industrial control panel labeling for a new facility or one that is updating and upgrading can be a daunting task. To help facility managers maximize productivity and boost communication and hazard prevention, Graphic Products, a global leader in […]

Cal OSHA cites marijuana processor

Explosion and Injury at Marijuana Processor Leads to Citation

The California Division of Occupational Safety and Health (Cal/OSHA) cited a marijuana producer for a workplace explosion in which an employee suffered burns. As the marijuana industry takes hold in states allowing recreational marijuana use, state agencies are taking steps to ensure compliance with worker safety and health standards.

Security Risk Assessment and Mitigation Share Common Strategies Across Facilities

A comprehensive risk analysis is the first step in assessing security vulnerabilities at any facility. Accurately performing vulnerability risk assessments of premises’ physical security and logical data takes a complete and comprehensive evaluation based on key areas. Let’s take a look at some tips that apply across facility types and industries.

Construction vehicles at building site.

EPA Proposes Clarifications for Construction General Permit

Responding to petitions for review from the National Association of Home Builders and the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, the EPA is proposing modifications to its 2017 Construction General Permit (CGP). The CGP comprises National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) requirements for construction site operators disturbing 1 or more acres of land or less than 1 acre […]