DuraLabel Label Printers & Supplies

Check heat safety on your phone

noreply@blogger.com (Eric Johnson) — Wed, 27 Jun 2012 14:30:00 +0000

OSHA is now offering a free heat safety app for the iPhone and Android. The new Heat Safety Tool allows you to estimate heat risk levels anywhere you and your phone goes.

Working in the heat is always a big safety concern this time of year. Exposure to heat can cause illness and even death. The most serious heat caused illness is heat stroke. Other heat illnesses, such as heat exhaustion and heat cramps and rash, are additional causes for concern.

Heat stroke occurs when the body's temperature regulatory system fails and sweating becomes inadequate. The body's only effective means of removing excess heat is compromised with little warning to the victim that a crisis stage has been reached.

A heat stroke victim's skin is hot, usually dry, red or spotted. Body temperature is usually 105^oF or higher, and the victim is mentally confused, delirious, perhaps in convulsions, or unconscious. Unless the victim receives quick and appropriate treatment, death can occur.

With OSHA's Heat Safety Tool installed, you have vital safety information available in the palm of your hand to immediately calculate the heat index for the worksite and risk levels. A simple click allows you to receive protective-measure reminders so you take the right steps at each risk level.

Reminders help you ensure your crews are drinking enough fluids, taking rest breaks. It will help you adjust work operations, gradually build up workloads for new workers, provide heat illness sign and symptom training and monitor each other for signs and symptoms of heat-related illness. The app even supplies plans for dealing with a heat illness emergency.

Get the jump on heat illnesses! Download the app here

Can smart phones be used to improve safety?

noreply@blogger.com (Eric Johnson) — Fri, 22 Jun 2012 18:42:00 +0000

Click to watch video

Google just introduced a new app that helps organizations coordinate workers using a smart phone's built-in GPS.

The technology isn't new, but the application and software makes it a lot more user friendly and intuitive.

Google Maps Coordinate can display worker locations on a Google Map, making it easy to assign jobs to the nearest available team member. By getting real-time visibility into where teams are and what jobs they are doing, work can be scheduled in a smarter, more efficient way.

When your organization uses Maps Coordinate jobs can be easily assigned to the nearest worker so more tasks can be completed in a shorter amount of time.

Administrators can then dispatch jobs with the confidence that an individual's location is correct. You can even upload your facility's floor plans, and locate workers and jobs indoors based on wifi information.

Just think how real time worker tracking can improve your organization's safety! Getting ideas???

Oh... by the way, you have until Sept 1st to purchase this app for only $15. Sign up here.

Change safety cultures with Kaizen

noreply@blogger.com (Eric Johnson) — Mon, 18 Jun 2012 19:58:00 +0000

In this modern day, where information is so readily available, there are still organizations that have yet to embrace safety. Those failing to do so are often blinded only by a lack of data or just bad data.

Many well-intentioned safety supervisors have worked in this environment, but are left helpless without management's full support. Unfortunately, the lack of support is often due to old numbers that don't support the cost of developing a safety culture.

Kaizen can help inject some new numbers into organizations so its difficult for upper management to look the other way on safety. The National Science Foundation is now supporting a study of the philosophy, which could yield some interesting ammunition for Health & Safety Managers now working in unsafe cultures.

Researchers at Oregon State University and Virginia Tech have partnered with nine different businesses to identify Kaizen "event" factors most critical to short-term and long-term performance improvements. The term "event" is used in the study to describe " ... workshops where employees try to accomplish as much actual Kaizen as possible."

Early reports in the study are promising. Researchers say most participating team members believe Kaizen will have a positive impact on the work area. Some organizations are already finding the philosophy is helping create a culture of continual improvement and will sustain improved levels of performance. Not all organizations are, however, finding success in the early stage of this study. Some organizations report work area performance actually degraded under Kaizen. Some to pre-event performance levels.

If you work in safety, this study will be well-worth watching closely. Results indicating efficiency and cost savings could create an excellent vehicle to persuade some organizations to listen to your safety improving ideas - especially when good safety is shown to also improve efficiency.

Since Kaizen is something a company adopts from top to bottom, it impacts everyone. Managers must seek ideas for efficiency improvement from workers. Upper management, in turn, must support these improvements, which opens the door to sustaining a safety program for the long run.

That's why Kaizen isn't just for production. The impact of implementation reaches all corners of an organization and opens the door to culture change. Production managers may be the first to embrace it, but they will also be much more open to implementing your ideas to improve safety.

To order your FREE Best Practices Guide to Kaizen today visit this page.

Lockout/tagout in waste management is criticial

noreply@blogger.com (Eric Johnson) — Wed, 06 Jun 2012 17:42:00 +0000

Today's waste management is more of a science than anything else. Many collection facilities must store, separate and then find a permanent home for a myriad of waste types. Everything from hazardous waste to recyclables takes additional space and energy to glean from the system. New equipment is making it easier to find and separate a wide range of waste types, but these advancements aren't necessarily eliminating injuries.

Equipment maintenance presents many hazards

Approximately 3 million workers service equipment in the United States. OSHA statistics show these workers face the greatest risk of injury when lockout/tagout is not properly implemented. OSHA research has found compliance with the lockout/tagout standard prevents an estimated 120 fatalities and 50,000 injuries each year. Workers injured on the job from exposure to hazardous energy lose an average of 24 workdays for recuperation.

A study conducted by the United Auto Workers (UAW) found that 20% of the fatalities (83 of 414) that occurred among their members between 1973 and 1995 were attributed to inadequate hazardous energy control procedures, specifically lockout/tagout procedures.

Workers need to be better trained than ever to operate the machinery used in this line of work. It's not just a good idea; it's the law. OSHA 29 CFR 1910.147 requires it. One of the best ways to promote lockout/tagout procedures at your facility is to post them directly on equipment or at a nearby, strategic location. There's no limit to label size. When a DuraLabel printer is used, long procedures can be printed and tiled so the size accommodates your needs. Keep in mind, the following procedure is just an example. You'll need to develop your own procedures for your specific equipment. Make sure to include start-up procedures with any LOTO procedure.

1 - Notify affected employees that a lock-out or tag-out system is going to be utilized and the reason therefore. The authorized employee shall know the type and magnitude of energy that the machine or equipment utilizes and shall understand the hazards thereof.

2 - If the machine or equipment is operating, shut it down by the normal stopping procedure (call control room operator, depress stop button, open toggle switch, etc.)

3 - Operate the switch, valve, or other energy isolating device(s) so that the equipment is isolated from its energy source(s). Stored energy (such as that in springs, elevated machine members, rotating flywheels, hydraulic systems, and air, gas, steam, or water pressure, etc.) must be dissipated or restrained by methods such as repositioning, blocking, bleeding down, etc.

        A.    If there is a possibility of re-accumulation of stored energy to a hazardous level, verification of isolation shall be continued until the maintenance or repair is completed, or until the possibility of such accumulation no longer exists.

DANGER!
FAILURE TO FOLLOW THE NEXT STEP MAY RESULT IN SERIOUS PHYSICAL HARM OR DEATH.

        1)    Have a qualified electrician turn off the source of electrical energy if the equipment is electrically energized.

        2)    Lock-out/Tag-out the energy isolating devices with assigned individual lock(s) or tag(s).

        3)    Verification of Isolation (electrical only): After ensuring that no personnel can be exposed and as a check on having disconnected the electrical energy source, call the control room operator and have the equipment controls placed in the “Manual” mode and attempt to activate the equipment, the control room operator must verify that they cannot start the equipment. The control room operator must next place the controls in the “Local” mode of operation. Maintenance/servicing personnel must attempt to start the equipment using the local push button or other normal operating controls at the field location to make certain the equipment will not operate. The control room operator must return the controls back to the “Manual” mode of operation and make necessary entries in the lock-out log in the control room. (Verification procedures are located in each group lock-out instructions box in electrical rooms).

CAUTION!
RETURN FIELD OPERATING CONTROL(S) TO NEUTRAL OR OFF POSITION AFTER THE TEST.

4 -    De-energize, control, or eliminate any remaining energy sources such as air, hydraulic, gravity, or potential motion and install any necessary additional control devices and or lock-out warning tags.
5 -    The equipment should now be properly locked out or tagged out.

Safety reminders for mining

noreply@blogger.com (Eric Johnson) — Fri, 01 Jun 2012 14:54:00 +0000

Mines are no place to forget about hazards. If the equipment at your mine isn't reminding workers to beware of hazards, workers are likely forgetting about them.

When outfitting your mine for safety, make sure visual communication is incorporated into your program. Labels and signs can be posted at strategic locations to remind workers of dangers near hazard locations. That way, potential risks can't be overlooked.

Today's industrial labels and signs are made of amazingly tough materials that adhere to just about anything. They even retain printed hazard information for years in the sun and rain.

Labels can be much bigger too. Today's label printers output sizes up to 9" tall. This allows you to communicate even more information and with bigger fonts. Larger sizes help workers read safety information from safe distances and make it easier to tile banner size signs.

Many mines have large message boards at mine entrances. With an industrial printer in-house, you can print important messages, as big as you want, for your workers on-demand and with the toughest labeling supplies on the market.

DuraLabel will be holding a webinar June 13th to discuss how industrial labeling can help your mine improve safety and efficiency. Sign up here

QR code your way to organization

noreply@blogger.com (Eric Johnson) — Tue, 29 May 2012 17:19:00 +0000

When it comes to organization, there are fewer and fewer reasons for a business to fail from a lack of it. Advancements in technology have made it incredibly easy to track inventories, assembly processes, deliveries and just about every element in any business's value-stream map.

New technologies, however, still have limitations. If you're feeding technology garbage, it's almost always going to give you the same thing back. Bill Gates once said, “The first rule of any technology used in a business is that automation applied to an efficient operation will magnify the efficiency. The second is that automation applied to an inefficient operation will magnify the inefficiency.”

Gates was spot-on when it comes to industrial facility organization. In fact, his quote looks like something straight out of a book on Lean Manufacturing. In industrial speak, his quote could be translated to say something like: if your facility isn't already successfully operating on Lean, applying new technology is only going to expose greater inefficiencies.

Sample QR Code

This, alone, is probably why so many industrial facilities fail to embrace new technologies. They just aren't ready for it.

Up to now QR codes, or Quick Response codes, have met this fate in industrial facilities. Mostly, because so few are prepared for the level of organization a system like this can bring to a process. If your facility is considering converting to a system of QR coding, make sure a solid foundation of Lean is already in place. This will make the benefits of applying this new technology easy to identify and ensure it sees continued use.

At this point you may be asking what advantage does QR codes have over barcodes. Basically, QR codes store more information, can be scanned with most smart phone devices and interface with internet. OK... those are handy things, but how do they apply to industrial facilities?

Procedure labeling and facility information are probably the most useful applications for QR codes at this point in time. As an example, a facility may wish to post a five page chemical Safety Data Sheet (SDS) on the packaging or shelving of a chemical. This would not be a substitute for having a hard copy available, but workers would have the option to instantly and easily research SDS information from the convenience of their smart phone. As another example, some facility man doors require detailed information be read before entry. As an option, workers could snap a picture of a strategically placed QR label and then instantly read everything from the screen of their smart phone. No more fumbling through some papers that were stuffed into the same manila envelope again and again.

QR codes also track your tracking. Yep ... sounds redundant, but when someone opens a webpage with a QR code, all of the same tracking information gathered on common websites can also be tracked with QR codes. Talk about efficiency!

There are literally millions of applications in facilities for QR codes that have yet to be invented. Come up with your own application and let DuraLabel help you put your idea into motion! Give us a call at 1-800-788-5572 today.

OSHA-GHS to alter labeling language slightly

noreply@blogger.com (Eric Johnson) — Fri, 25 May 2012 15:20:00 +0000

GHS has been big news in the U.S. lately, but the ripple effect of this recent implementation is still uncovering additional changes. Within the pages of the newly revised Hazard Communication Standards’ (HCS), OSHA proposed alterations to the workplace safety sign and label language.

OSHA already has requirements for labeling and signage at many substance-specific regulated areas. However, the language used on these signs varies greatly. The proposed modifications would change the language on certain labels and signs so they are more consistent.

This final rule change focuses only on cancer-causing substances. The table below provides an example of how confusing the current required language can be for specific carcinogens.

Carcinogen	Standard	Current Statement
Inorganic Arsenic	29 CFR 1910.1018	"Cancer Hazard"
Vinyl Chloride	29 CFR 1910.1017	"Cancer-Suspect Agent"
MDA	29 CFR 1910.1050	"May Cause Cancer"

Keep in mind, these statements do not imply a higher risk level and should not suggest their are different tiers of cancer warnings. Still, it would be easy for a reader to misunderstand this, if care was not taken when developing a label for these substances.

Always write label information simply and clearly to reduce confusion. OSHA has decided to use the words May Cause Cancer, which will become the standard wording for carcinogen safety labels and signs.

Table XIII-4. Regulated Areas in Substance-Specific Health Hazards summarizes the changes to the warning message for each substance. Employers have until June 1, 2016 to use the current sign language. Existing substance-specific label warnings may be used until June 1, 2015.

Is your facility ready for GHS? Save money and time by updating your facility now. DuraLabel has everything you need to integrate the new GHS changes into your facility labeling - simply and accurately. Our GHS design-ready software makes it a snap! Call us today at 1-800-788-5572 to find out how we can help you stay ahead of the GHS curve.

The wave of the future - GHS labeling has arrived

noreply@blogger.com (Eric Johnson) — Wed, 23 May 2012 17:29:00 +0000

If you're just getting wind of GHS, you're not alone. Millions are behind the curve on this one, but they have no one to blame but themselves. The information is now out there. You just have to do a little research on your own to understand what it is and how you're affected.

Now is as good a time as any to play catch up on the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling (GHS). Let's start by doing a little history on this subject. GHS was first spawned by the chemical manufacturing community around the world. These interested parties have been working to reduce safety issues and the costs involved with chemical shipping and storing for the last 50 years.

In 1992, the United Nations (UN) began writing global standards for chemical labeling and then published the current version of GHS in 2003. Over those 10-plus-years the UN sought feedback from all nations and worked to incorporate those ideas into a single document all nations would be happy with.

Within a matter of months, countries around the globe began to adopt elements of GHS as their own. Today there are over 50 countries who now require chemicals to be labeled to GHS standards.

What are GHS labeling standards? They're really pretty simple. However, you need to keep in mind each country applies GHS a little differently. The UN-GHS standards for labeling requires: 1) Product Identifier & Codes, 2) Signal Word (Danger or Warning), 3) Pictograms, 4) Hazard Statements, 5) Precautionary Statements and 6) Supplier information.

You're probably asking yourself, where do I get this information? Don't worry. That's pretty simple too. All of the information you need to label for GHS compliance can be found on the new Safety Data Sheet (SDS) that comes with your chemical packaging. The majority of what goes on the label is already written for you in the first 2 sections. If your chemical packaging didn't come with a properly formatted SDS, call the manufacturer and request one or visit their website. Many chemical manufacturers already offer the new SDS for their chemicals. If you don't see one listed for the U.S., check out the SDS for the U.K. or get the English version for the EU. Both will have the information you need.

Remember, each country handles GHS a little differently. So do a little research on your cargo's shipping or storage destination by visiting their government website for importation. If GHS information is not covered, contact a shipping representative in the destination country and send them a sample GHS label to review.

Contact DuraLabel at 1-800-788-5572 for GHS labeling software and tools. When it comes to GHS, we're ahead of the curve.

DuraLabel TORO Makes The Front Cover Of FSM

noreply@blogger.com (Chris Whitney) — Tue, 01 May 2012 15:40:00 +0000

You've got to be good to make the front cover of Facility Safety Management (FSM) magazine. With every front cover they put their reputation on the line. If what is shown on the front cover doesn't live up to expectations, then readers will start to think the magazine is no longer living up to their expectations.

With the DuraLabel TORO on the front cover of the April 2012 issue of Facility Safety Magazine there was no concern. There has never been a custom label printer like the DuraLabel TORO. It not only lives up to expectations, it will blow you away... far exceeding the capabilities of any other label printer.

Standalone, IT Independent Industrial Label Printer

To start it is the first and only truly standalone four inch label printer. The word “standalone” means... standalone. Other brands have called their printers “standalone.” But, if you need a PC or network to run the printer, it is not standalone. If the printer needs to be plugged into a power source, it is not standalone. With the DuraLabel TORO you can pick it up using its built-in handles, carry it into the middle of a green-field construction site. There's nothing around for a half mile in every direction. Just turn on your DuraLabel TORO and start printing. It's fast, it's easy, it's IT independent, and it's the only four inch label printer you can use anyplace any time.

Tough Tested, High Quality Labels

The DuraLabel TORO is tough tested quality. It is a 300 dpi thermal transfer printer that produces long lasting, clear, tough labels and signs using supplies from half inch up to four inches in width. It's a rugged thermal transfer printer that includes an advanced technology tough-screen monitor, full-size keyboard, a complete software package, a huge symbols library, hundreds of templates, and even training videos all built into the printer. With the optional battery it goes anywhere labels and signs are needed.

Free, Unlimited Tech Support

The DuraLabel TORO comes with free unlimited tech support for as long as you are a DuraLabel customer, and it comes with a full three year warranty that includes the print head. No other brand of label printer matches DuraLabel... even if you pay extra for a service contract.

DuraLabel Premium Vinyl and ExpressPeel Vinyl both provide a five year warranty on the labels you make. That's right! Not only is the vinyl warrantied to be free from defects, the labels you make have a five year warranty. No one else has the quality that allows them to make that kind of warranty. But DuraLabel does.

Unmatched Customer Service

Like all DuraLabel printers, the TORO is backed by the unmatched customer service of Graphic Products. If you have a question, just pick up the phone and call. You'll be speaking with a friendly, helpful, knowledgeable expert who will provide useful and practical answers to your questions. And you'll never need to buy a service contract to get your questions answered.

Plus you get fast shipping. When you place an order before 3:30 PM, you get same-day shipping, so you'll receive your order ASAP.

Yes, the DuraLabel TORO is special. It's the label printer that eliminates the hassles of making labels and signs, and makes your job easier by providing a fast, simple and complete label printing system in a portable package you can use anywhere. It's the label printer that will enhance the reputation of any magazine.

Why not try a DuraLabel TORO today? Call 1-888-326-9244 and ask about special package deals that feature the DuraLabel TORO. You'll be glad you did.

DuraChem - Chemical Resistant Labels and Signs

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Hudgik) — Thu, 23 Feb 2012 13:48:00 +0000

When tough, chemical resistant labels or signs are needed, get DuraChem labeling supplies. When label survivability is important in locations subjected to storage chemicals, cleaning, washdowns, engine fluids, or hydrolic fluids, the answer is to make your labels and sign using DuraChem supplies.

DuraChem supplies include a chemical resistant tape made using a polyester base material and proprietary topcoat. Combined with the unique DuraChem ribbon and a DuraLabel printer you get labels and signs with extreme resistance to many chemicals. The ink from the ribbon actually chemically reacts with the topcoat to create printing that can't wash off and won't fade when exposed to most chemicals.

Laboratory and medical facilities find the DuraChem provides the resistance they need to substances such as DSMO, alcohol and xylene. DuraChem labels are excellent for bar codes and remain readable even after exposure to harsh conditions -- just what is needed for use with your LIS/HIS.

Food manufacturing and processing companies love DuraChem's resistance to wash-down chemicals, detergents and cleaning solvents. Labels and signs made with DuraChem supplies are used to make labelsand signs on or near vats, coils, tubing, and submerging and turning devices. DuraChem supplies make long-kasting signs for overhead structures, shields, walls, ceilings, lighting fixtures, refrigeration, heating, and ventilation systems -- al of which must be cleaned.

Industry and manufacturing facilities use DuraChem labels and signs in locations where they may be exposed to materials such as roller cleaner, Goof Off, WD-40, motor oil, Lenium ES, kerosene, transmission fluid, brake fluid, hydraulic jack oil, machining oil, TSP or MEK.

DuraChem makes tough labels and signs!

Give us a call today at 1-888-326-9244 and ask about DuraChem supplies for making chemical resistant labels an signs. You'll be glad you did.

Funny Safety Slogans

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Hudgik) — Wed, 15 Feb 2012 18:22:00 +0000

Humor can be a good way to communicate in a memorable way. But humor needs to be use appropriately. The goal isn't to be funny, the goal is to deliver a memorable safety message. For example, while this safety slogan might seem to be clever, is it really an effective safety slogan?

Where there isn’t any joy or fun, a safety day has just begun.

Having a funny safety slogan is not the goal. Having a memorable safety slogan, that helps people remember what they need to do to be safe, is the goal. Sometimes a funny safety slogan can accomplish that:

While on a ladder, never step back to admire your work.

This safety slogan brings up a vision of falling off a ladder, something none of us want to do. It can be effective in reminding people to be safe while using a ladder.

Safety slogans should never be insulting. While funny safety slogans can help people be aware of safety, insulting an individual or group of people is counterproductive. Instead of improving safety, it isolates and humiliates people. Also, stay away from any slogan that might be considered sexual harassment or supportive of sexual harassment.

Don't watch her behind. Keep safety in mind!

This is not a good safety slogan. Remember, humor can be dangerous. What one person thinks is humors another takes as a grave insult.

A spill, a slip, a hospital trip

This is a good safety slogan. It is a poem that rhymes and it has a touch of humor. That makes it memorable. It also delivers a message that is memorable because a hospital trip, resulting from a fall or slip, is something we definitely want to avoid.

When you need to make signs or labels with safety slogans, then a DuraLabel custom label printer is the tool you need. DuraLabel printers and supplies make effective, long-lasting signs and labels -- they are the ONLY signs and labels that come with a five year warranty. Call 1-888-326-9244 today and ask about DuraLabel Safety Sign kits. You'll be glad you did.

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DuraLabel 7000 Large Format Printer

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Hudgik) — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 17:49:00 +0000

DuraLabel 7000 Large Format Label Printer

Looking for a custom label printer that makes labels that are a little bit bigger than those made by a standard four inch label printer? Larger size labels are more visible, easier to read, and they attract attention so their message gets noticed.

The DuraLabel 7000 label printer is a seven inch label printer that is perfect when larger labels are needed. Combined with the unique extra large die-cut labels that are only available from DuraLabel, and you have an economical, super quality system for making extra large arc flash labels, pipe markers, RTK labels and other types of labels that deliver important information.

Large size labels also provide more room for providing operating or maintenance instructions. For example, instead of using tiny print (or multiple labels) to provide a six step start-up procedure, a single DuraLabel 7000 label has room for the complete start-up procedure.

A good example of using larger labels are drum labels. A larger size label allows the information on the label to be read from a greater distance. This means drum contents can be easily be identified from a distance. Using extra-large RTK labels on drums helps employees, contractors and vendors to be aware of chemical dangers far sooner than if normal size labels were used.

The DuraLabel 7000 uses tough tested DuraLabel supplies, including DuraLabel vinyl. DuraLabel vinyl is the only vinyl that comes with a five year warranty on the labels you make. No one else provides a warranty on the labels you make. That's because no one else has the quality DuraLabel has.

Call 1-888-326-9244 and ask about special DuraLabel 7000 kits. You'll get the DuraLabel 7000 label printer, and the supplies you need to get your labeling jobs done right. Call today. You'll be glad you did.

DuraLabel Article Library

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Hudgik) — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 15:55:00 +0000

DuraLabel has always worked to provide their customers, and others, with useful information that will improve safety, productivity and the workplace. They have just opened their library of artictles making the complete workplace library available online on the DuraLabel.com web site. This is the main web site providing information about DuraLabel printers and supplies. (Check it out when you need a new custom label printer.)

You can read only of the articles online. All of the articles are available free. No log-in is required.

These new DuraLabel articles cover a wide range of safety, productivity, workplace, and -- of course -- label and sign making topics. Here is a partial list of the articles that are available online:

Safety Signs
    Construction Dangers and Construction Safety Signs
    Suggestions For Safety Slogans
    Safety Pictures - Making Effective Safety Signs
    Stadium Safety Signs and Labels
    Safety Security Signage

Safety Regulations
    ANSI Z535 Safety Signs
    Industrial Safety
    Creating An OSHA Safety Plan
    How OSHA Sets Standards
    Safety Label Communication
    Regulations Still Drive Safety Signs
    Industrial Safety Audit

Safe Workplace
    Hospital Facility Safety
    Hazardous Materials Identification System (HMIS)
    Lab Safety
    Chemical Safety
    Emergency Egress (Getting Out In An Emergency)
    Safe Workplace for Utility Industry
    Ten Common Hazards for Facilities
    Make Safety Your Business
    Creating Your Safety Manual
    OSHA 300 (Accident Reporting)

Guides To Improving Efficiency
    Color Coding Can Bring New Efficiencies to Global 5S Management
    Floor Marking
    Pull System-Kanban
    Leak Detection & Repair (LDAR)
    Properly Labeling Tangled Cables
    Labels, Signs and Printers - Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP)
    Tool Crib Management
    What is Six Sigma?

Labeling Requirements
    Electrical Labeling Requirements for Solar PV Systems
    What to Consider When Labeling Products for California Proposition 65
    Making Custom Signs
    Standard Hazard Symbols
    Making Workplace Signs
    Pipe Marking - ANSI Color Coding
    Mil-130 (Military Labeling Specification 130)
    Short Circuit Current Rating (SCCR)

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Emergency Exit - Floor Marking & Exit Signs - ISO 7010

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Hudgik) — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 11:09:00 +0000

Which way do you go to get out? Where is the exit? During an emergency, when there could be a lot of noise and confusion, can you quickly find your way out of the building? Is the sign pictured here helpful?

This sign says "Emergency Exit"... in Polish. Unless you can read Polish it is not very helpful in directing you out of the building. That's why a new set of safety sign standards has been developed based on using pictures. ISO 7010:2003, Graphical symbols - Safety colors and safety signs - Safety signs used in workplaces and public areas, provides this new standard for safety signs.

The sign to the left is an example of an ISO 7010 compliant sign. Without using words it clearly shows the way to the nearest emergency exit.

ISO 7010 emergency exit signs are not limited to safety symbols. They may include text. The Polish text and the safety symbol in the sign to the left can be combined on one sign. However, ISO 7010 requires the specified safety symbol always be included. The text is optional.

There are a number of other graphical ways to show people how to get out of a building in an emergency. The most common is to use floor marking tape. This is particularly important for marking emergency exits such that they can be found in the dark. Luminescent floor marking is used to mark the pathway to an exit and outline the exit. Emergency exit signs are also made using luminescent materials. The result is an illuminated and well-marked path showing the way to the nearest exit. This is impossible to achieve using anything other than luminescent floor marking tape and signs.

When you need floor marking, the place to turn to is DuraLabel. With DuraLabel's advanced technology and wide selection of supplies, you can get both the right floor marking tape and the right materials for making needed safety signs.

DuraLabel has five types of floor marking tape, each available in multiple colors - except for the luminescent floor marking tape which is only available in luminescent green. DuraLabel also has luminescent supplies for making emergency exit signs, or other materials such as reflective vinyl, premium vinyl, high tack vinyl (for direct application on difficult to mark surfaces) and various sign making materials for use in harsh environments. With over 50 types of supplies available, you can always find the right supply for your emergency exit marking requirements.

Call DuraLabel today at 1-888-326-9244. You'll be glad you did.

When You Need Labels, Who Do You Turn To?

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Hudgik) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 18:53:00 +0000

DuraLabel 5S Kit

Things are easy, until something goes wrong. When things go wrong, you need to get them back on track ASAP... to keep your boss happy and at times to keep government inspectors or regulators happy. When that involves the need for signs or labels, you'll want to have a DuraLabel printer on your shelf.

DuraLabel label and sign printers are incredibly easy to use. So even if you haven't used your label printer lately, you can get it out and start printing almost immediately. And DuraLabel printers are fast. They are design to minimize processing time and start printing almost immediately. That means it take less time -- a lot less time to make labels using a DuraLabel label printer.

DuraLabel printers are also great to have when there is no emergency. The photo above shows the DuraLabel PRO 5S labeling kit. 5S helps reduce waste, improve quality, safety and productivity, and cut costs. A DuraLabel 5S labeling kit give you everything needed to make the 5S labels and signs you need. And labeling kits can be customized to meet your specific labeling requirements.

By the way, when you get a DuraLabel 5S labeling kit, you'll be saving money. Call 1-888-326-9244 today and ask about the DuraLabel 5S labeling kit. You'll be glad you did.

DuraLabel printers can do more than quick, emergency labeling and 5S labeling. They are the most versatile printers on the market. A printer is no good if you can't get the right supplies. With DuraLabel there are more than 50 types of supplies available. You can always get the right supply for the job. (Not using the right labeling supply can result in premature cracking, peeling, fading, falling off, chemical corrosion, or other forms of label failure.) Not only is the wide selection of supplies, but DuraLabel is THE ONLY supplier that provides a five year warranty of the vinyl labels you make. No one else has the quality that allows them to do that!

Call 1-888-326-9244 today.

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The Best Industrial Label Printer

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Hudgik) — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 16:58:00 +0000

What makes a label printer the best industrial label printer?

Getting the best doesn't mean paying the most. In fact, getting the most doesn't mean you need to pay the most. A higher price does not always mean a better or more complete product. Nor does a low price mean a better value. What are you getting for your dollar?

Advanced Technology
DuraLabel TORO Label Printer

With DuraLabel you get the best of everything. That's because you get a company that is focused on creating long-term satisfied customers. To do that DuraLabel must make quality label printers that deliver reliable service. Label printers that are easy-to-use. Label printers that are versatile. Labl printers that make professional, long-lasting labels and signs.

To do that DuraLabel needs to make supplies that stand out above all other competition. Without quality supplies the label printer is nothing. That's why DuraLabel has built the DuraLabel Test Lab - a facility that aggressively tests labeling supplies to ensure outstanding performance and long life. That's why the DuraLabel QA department is constantly testing supplies -- all day every day.

This means DuraLabel constantly checks the quality of their suppliers to ensure you always get labeling tape that makes labels that last.

This means DuraLabel is constantly checking the quality if their own manufacturing to ensure you always get labeling tape that makes labels that last.

This means that DuraLabel supplies are THE ONLY Tough Tested labeling supplies. They are the labeling supplies you can count on to get the job done right the first time.

This mean DuraLabel vinyl is THE ONLY vinyl that comes with a five year warranty on the labels you make.

What makes a label printer the best industrial label printer? The DuraLabel brand name., When you buy DuraLabel you know you are getting the best industrial label printer AND the best label printer value. No other label printer, available anywhere, beats a DuraLabel.

For more information about DuraLabel printers call 1-888-326-9244.

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Duralabel Safety Articles

noreply@blogger.com (GMcConnell) — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 21:30:00 +0000

Duralabel has created a collection of safety, efficiency and labeling guides.

Topics such as 'Industrial Safety, 'Safety Slogans,' 'NFPA Standards' and 'Custom Signs' will help safety personnel, facility managers and employees keep the workplace safe and follow OSHA/NFPA safety standards efficiently as possible.

Please visit www.duralabel.com/articles/index.php.

The Best Industrial Grade Labeling Supplies Are From DuraLabel

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Hudgik) — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 16:42:00 +0000

DuraLabel Continuous Vinyl

An industrial grade labeling supply is a labeling supply that is stronger, more durable, and available in more sizes and materials than office grade labeling supplies. DuraLabel is the leading maker of industrial grade labeling supplies.

How can you make a comparison to determine which labeling supply is best? That can be difficult because you can't really try a supply without buying the label printer that uses that supply.

What about warranties as a basis of comparison?

The most commonly used labeling supply is continuous vinyl. All suppliers of continuous vinyl provide a warranty that states that their vinyl will be free from defects. But how does that translate into actual performance? How can you identify a defect in continuous vinyl? You can see something obvious, such as holes in the vinyl, or missing adhesive, or vinyl that can't be printed on. But that does not tell you how good the vinyl is. Will labels made with this vinyl last? Are they truly resistant to peeling, cracking, fading, moisture, chemicals and sunlight. You'll only find that out after you've made labels and applied them - and it may take several years. And still the supplier will say you didn't install the labels correctly or didn't properly clean the surface.

There is one labeling supply warranty that stands out.

DuraLabel is different. With DuraLabel you get a warranty on the labels you make. If they fail, you get a replacement roll of vinyl, no matter what the circumstances are. We know you don't want to spend the labor man-hours to replace labels prematurely. We know you want to get your labeling jobs done and not have to do them over again. So we know you are not going to be sloppy and install labels in a way you know they will quickly fail. We also know DuraLabel continuous vinyl is the best, longest lasting vinyl you can get. It is the only Tough Tested vinyl and it must survive DuraLabel's rigorous QA process. The result is the unique DuraLabel five year warranty of the labels you make.

It's a warranty with no where-as, if, but or exceptions. No complex legal language. If a label made with DuraLabel premium continuous vinyl fails within five years of the purchase of the vinyl, DuraLabel will provide a one-time replacement roll of vinyl. It's that simple.

That's how you can tell DuraLabel is the best. DuraLabel is the only industrial labeling supplies vendor that provides a warranty like this. DuraLabel is the only labeling supplier that 100% stands benind the quality of the labels made with their supplies.

Call 1-888-326-9244 today and ask about special DuraLabel kits. You'll be getting the best labeling supplies, the most outstanding printers, and incredible customer service.

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A Gift For You - Free MSHA Safety Videos

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Hudgik) — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 18:43:00 +0000

MSHA Safety Videos

Graphic Products has released a DVD with MSHA produced videos, plus videos by Graphic Products. This safety DVD covers:

Increasing Safety Awarenes
Proper Safety Sign & Label Solutions
Chemical & Dust Hazards
DuraLabel Toro — A New Battery Powered 4" Label Printer

The safety videos are available on the DVD in both English and Spanish.

Use this link to order your free MSHA Safety Videos DVD.

While produced to help improve mining safety, these videos are useful in any industrial workplace. They cover the basics safety that are applicable in any location. Everyone needs to have a better awareness of safety. The "Increasing Safety Awareness" includes dramatizations that help bring safety awareness into every day workplace situations.

This safety DVD is available free for those who work in mining, manufacturing and other industrial workplaces, and are employed by companies with 50 or more employees.

And don't forget up the best label printers for producing MSHA and OSHA compliant labels and signs -- DuraLabel printers. Call 1-888-326-9244 and ask about special DuraLabel mining safety kits. You'll be glad you did.

Free OSHA / ANSI Safety Sign Poster

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Hudgik) — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 16:30:00 +0000

There are only a few copies left of this limited edition ANSI safety sign poster.

This safety poster provides an overview of the ANSI Z535 standards that set the design requirements for safety signs. Using a retro-style that looks like a 60's concert poster, the ANSI Safety Sign Poster provides the information need to ensure safety signs are consistent and in compliance with ANSI.

The poster is titled as an OSHA Safety Sign poster because a top concern is to be in compliance with OSHA. For safety signs OSHA references the ANSI standard. This means that OSHA requires compliance with the ANSI safety sign standards. But whether you call them OSHA or ANSI the standards are the same and they are shown on this fun and educational poster.

This safety sign poster is available free from Graphic Products. Here is a link to a page where you can request you free ANSI Safety Sign poster.

Label Printers - Getting The Best Support And Customer Service

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Hudgik) — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 16:00:00 +0000

I've been talking about getting "the best," such as in getting the best label printer. But what does"best" mean? What is the best label printer? From a quality and performance viewpoint DuraLabel makes the best label printers available. But that's not the complete story. "Best" needs to include the quality of the support and customer service.

Quality customer service means, for example, having the labeling supplies you need in stock. Sometimes you may be able to wait a week or two. Other times there will be situations in which you need supplies yesterday. At DuraLabel we don't believe in just-in-time delivery to our warehouse. We maintain a massive inventory of labeling supplies so you can get what you need, when you need it. Just pick up your phone and call 1-888-326-9244 and your order will most likely be on it's way today.

What about those times when you have a question? One of four things can happen:

1) You place a call and are told you need to purchase a service contract. To get support from some label printer companies you need to purchase a service contract that provides you with a set amount of customer support phone time.

2) You place a call and no one answers. You leave a message andwait for a call back. And then wait. And wait. And wait. You step out of the office for a few moments. When you return these is a message. You return their their call... and leave another message. Then wait. And wait.

3) You place a call and no one knows the answer to your question (or you get an answer that doesn't help).

4) You place a call. You are immediately connected to a friendly expert who answers your question, quickly providing the needed information. There's no charge. There's no service contract to buy. Support is personal, friendly, expert and always free for as long as you are a DuraLabel customer.

Call DuraLabel to purchase your next label printer. You'll be glad you did. Call 1-888-326-9244 today.

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DuraLabel Label Making Supplies

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Hudgik) — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 19:43:00 +0000

Do you want the best when you are making labels for you facility? The first question that pops into my mind is, "What do you mean by best?"

For me best is a mixture of:

#1 Makes labels that are fully compliant with all standards and codes.

#2 Best quality. I want labels that last. Labels that fall off or fade cost me a lot in extra in man-hours to replace them.

#3 Best to use. I want a printer and software that is easy-to-use, so I don't waste time trying to figure out how to make the labels I need. Labeling, although necessary, is a task that's at the bottom of my list. I want to get the job done and off my desk.

#4 Best customer service. If I have a problem I want someone I can call and get an answer NOW!

#5 Best cost. All of the above cost me more than paying a few dollars more for supplies and a printer. After I know I'm getting all of the above, I'm looking to get the best price I can on the printer and from vendor I've selected.

What meets all five of these criteria? The DuraLabel PRO label printer from Graphic Products. Call them at 1-888-326-9244 and ask for some free samples.

DuraLabel Label Printers

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Hudgik) — Fri, 02 Dec 2011 14:19:00 +0000

DuraLabel has a complete line of label and printers, from hand held, to the the large format DuraLabel 9000 Sign printer. Here they are:

Starting on the left:

The DuraLabel 9000 Sign Printer is the big printer. It uses supplies up to 9" in width to print OSHA safety signs, pipe markers, standard and large format arc flash labels and more. Multiple nine inch sections can be combine to create even larger signs. When you need safety signs, the DuraLabel 9000 Sign Printer is the way to go.

The DuraLabel 7000 HazMat Printer. This is the perfect label printer for making hazmat labels and signs, including barrel and drum labels. Capable of printing on supplies from 4" to 7" in width, including extra large NFPA Diamond RTK die-cuts and arc flash labels, this is the powerhouse label printer when large, highly visible labels are needed.

The DuraLabel TORO Standalone Label Printer. There is no other printer like the DuraLabel TORO. It is the only fully self-contained standalone label printer. With the optional battery it does not even need a power cord. The built in software, keyboard and touch-screen monitor make creating labels fast and easy. The advanced electronics automatically detect the supply that is installed.

The DuraLabel PRO Desktop Labelers. There are two DuraLabel PRO models. The DuraLabel PRO is a high speed 203 dpi label printer. The DuraLabel PRO 300 is a high quality 300 dpi label printer. Both feature increased memory and fast processing to save you time when printing labels.

The Hand Held DuraLabel 2000. The printer that increases efficiency because you can have it with you wherever you go. The DuraLabel 2000 is the only two inch hand held label printer. It puts more power and versatility in the palm of your hand than any other printer.

Can't decide which DuraLabel printer is best for you? Call 1-888-362-9244 today and ask about special packages that include two different DuraLabel printers. You'll be glad you did.

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Safety Training Videos Available Free

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Hudgik) — Tue, 29 Nov 2011 16:05:00 +0000

Videos are the most effective means of providing training. They present the needed information, and when done well, do so in a memorable way. MSHA has created an excellent series of videos about mine safety that are relevant to safety in any industry. For example, the first video covers safety awareness, a safety topic we all need to be familiar with.

Workplace Safety Videos

Graphic Products has started to make the MSHA safety videos available on DVD. This allows these safety videos to be viewed without an internet connection. Plus these DVDs may be freely copied so employees can take them home and view them at anytime.

The first DVD covers safety awareness, and chemical and dust hazards. All of the videos on the DVD are in both English and Spanish.

You can get your free copy of this workplace safety DVD on Graphic Products' main DuraLabel web site. Use this link to go to the free ordering page: free safety videos on DVD.

Graphic Products provides a variety of safety resources as a free service for our customers. You can see a listing of all available free safety guides by going to: free safety and productivity guides.

Labeling Uneven Bumpy Surfaces

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Hudgik) — Thu, 24 Nov 2011 00:36:00 +0000

The instructions for applying labels always seem to say they must be applied to a clean, dry, flat surface. What if you don't have a flat surface? What if it's bumpy? What it it's uneven?

DuraLabel Conformable Polypropylene Tape

The reason why flat surfaces are required is because vinyl has a memory. It will try to return to it's original shape - which is generally the shape it was in on the roll. When you apply a vinyl label on an uneven or irregular surface, it will pull free from any part of the surface that is lower than any other part. In other words, it will fall off. The thicker the vinyl (thicker vinyl is stiffer), the sooner the failure.

What's the solution?

There are over 50 types of supplies available from DuraLabel. You can always get the right labeling supply. That means you can get a DuraLabel labeling supply that is appropriate for uneven and irregular surfaces. It is called DuraLabel Conformable Polypropylene Tape.

With its low shape memory and ability flex, labels and signs printed with DuraLabel Conformable Polypropylene Tape will provide long life on surfaces were other materials fail. Labels made with this supply can be placed on textured walls and natural surfaces.

DuraLabel has the right answer when custom labels and signs are needed. When you need a custom label printer, call DuraLabel 1-888-326-9244. You'll be glad you did.

DuraLabel Conformable Polypropylene Tape is just one of several labeling supplies used on uneven surfaces. Depending on surface properties another supply, such as DuraLabel High-Tack Tapes or DuraLabel Nylon Labeling Tapes may be a better option.