Tag: fire safety

Company Officials Sentenced to Federal Prison over Deadly Facility Explosion

A Wisconsin federal judge has sentenced six Didion Milling Inc. officials for their role in a fatal explosion at a facility operated by the corn milling company in 2017. “These defendants put Didion workers in grave danger, and five people tragically lost their lives, devastating their families and their community,” said U.S. Attorney General Merrick B. […]

The Value of Skilled Trade Certifications: A Pathway to Career Advancement and Safety

Certifications have become a cornerstone in the professional development of skilled trade workers, particularly in the fire, electrical, and life safety realms. Certification programs are designed to be comprehensive, promoting competency and safety in various specialized domains. In today’s competitive job market, the value of certifications extends far beyond a mere acknowledgment of skills; it […]

CSB Finalizes Reports on Fatal Explosions at Two Facilities

On Dec. 6, the U.S. Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board (CSB) released its final report on the deadly explosions and fires at the Didion Milling Inc. dry corn milling facility in Cambria, Wis. The May 2017 explosion fatally injured five employees and seriously injured another 14. The incident destroyed the facility, resulting in over $15 million […]

NFPA Unveils 2024 Outlook for Skilled Trades Industry

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has released its second annual Industry Trends Survey, which reveals skilled trade workers’ sentiment around the current state of labor, training, and technology on the jobsite. NFPA collected responses from 310 U.S.-based workers in the electrical, manufacturing, construction, engineering, architect/design, facility maintenance, fire service, and insurance/risk management fields. In […]

Eek! Is Your Facility in One of the Country’s 50 Rattiest Cities?

Chicago continues its first-place run in the rat race in the U.S., topping Orkin’s Top 50 Rattiest Cities List for the ninth year in a row. Los Angeles moved up to the No. 2 ranking while New York rounds out the top 3 spots. Jumping up 10 spots this year is Houston to No. 20, and Greensboro, N.C., moves up 17 spots to […]

NFPA Survey: 80% of Skilled Trade Workers Rely on Digital Tools Daily

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has released survey results collected from over 330 industry professionals at the NFPA 2023 Conference & Expo. The research findings reveal insights around trends and attitudes on digital transformation, training, and educational programs. Respondents represent the electrical, manufacturing, construction, engineering, architect/design, facility maintenance, fire service, and insurance/risk management fields. […]

4 Ways to Prepare Your Facilities for Fall

With summer coming to an end, it’s time for facilities managers not only to examine the inside, outside, and landscaping elements of their facilities but also to be prepared for power outages, which are more likely to happen as it gets colder. Whether it’s an office complex, college or hospital campus, recreational hub, transportation hub, […]

10 Tips to Prevent Dust Explosions at Your Facility

It’s important for facilities managers to understand the risks of explosions and fires in the workplace. Airborne particles, like dust, have a surprising combustive power and can pose a threat to various industries. “Preventing dust explosions is of utmost importance in any facility. The devastating consequences of these explosions can pose a significant threat to […]

Dollar Tree and OSHA Reach Settlement Agreement over Safety Hazards

Dollar Tree Stores Inc., the operator of discount retailers Dollar Tree and Family Dollar stores, has entered into a settlement agreement with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), the agency announced August 23. OSHA has frequently cited Dollar Tree and Family Dollar stores, as well as competitor Dollar General, for safety violations, most often including blocked […]

College Campus Fire Stats and Safety Tips

As the new school year draws near, college students across the country are preparing to move to campus in a dormitory or off-campus housing. Through their annual “Campus Fire Safety for Students” campaign in September, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and the Center for Campus Fire Safety (CCFS) are working together to help ensure these residences are as safe as […]