Press release: UK's University of Oxford research finds poor road and rail planning lands the world with an annual $22bn repair bill
Tue, Jun 25, 2019 13:36 EDT
Small islands and lower income countries are disproportionately affected by natural disasters and should be targeted first Disaster risk scientists at the University of Oxford in the UK have released new research on the impact of earthquakes, tropical cyclones and flooding on road and rail networks across the world. They used detailed transport maps to identify 50 million kilometres of road and rail networks, to the level of individual roads and bridges. They overlaid that with state-of-the-art global hazard maps and identified key risks from natural disasters, then translated the damages into Dollar equivalents. Nature Communications today published their study, ' A global multi-hazard risk analysis of road and railway infrastructure assets ' led by Dr. Elco Koks of ITRC-Mistral in conjunction with other researchers from the University of Oxford, the World Bank, and the European Commission Joint Research Centre. The paper is available for free download via the Nature Communications website . Natural hazards have a devastating impact on economic and social aspects of communities as well as transport infrastructure, as experienced by populations across the world in recent events such as when Hurricane Maria hit Puerto Rico in 2017, when Indonesia was hit by a large earthquake in 2018, and during extensive floods in Japan in 2018. "This is the first global study to identify damage to networked road and rail infrastructure at the level of individual road segments or bridge structures and to include a full evaluation of all risks from multiple natural disasters," adds Dr Koks, a disaster risk modelling expert from University of Oxford and ITRC-MISTRAL (UK Infrastructure Transitions Research Consortium). Natural hazard risks on the rise, devastate worst off countries It is essential that countries improve their transport planning and resilience by including risk information in their assessments, particularly around flooding exposure with over 73% of expected annual damages arising from surface and river flooding, and a further 15% of annual damages attributed to coastal flooding. This finding is especially important at a time when multiple studies indicate upwards trends in flood risks alone. "The study shows that although absolute damages are found highest in US, Japan and Europe, Small Islands Developing States (SIDS) and lower income countries are hit hardest in terms of GDP," explains Dr Koks. Improving transport planning can save billions Targeted improvements to road and rail networks such as including flood barriers at initial build stage will result in greatly reduced infrastructure spend and better future-proofing to prevent damage from natural hazards. "The benefits of the additional cost of building in more resilience (about 2% of total build costs) can easily be offset by higher efficiency in spending and service delivery, which can halve total spending needs," explains co-author Dr Conrad Zorn, of the University of Oxford and ITRC-MISTRAL. Building in additional resilience such as improved road design for better drainage and including flood barriers at planning stage, at an additional cost of around 2% of the road value, could result in financial savings of 60% of all the roads that are exposed to at least one flood event or more and of over 80% of the primary and secondary roads flooded on average every year in upper middle income and tertiary roads in lower and middle income countries. Identifying transport links most vulnerable to natural disasters allows better futureproofing "The mapping and analysis carried out for this paper could be carried out on a more granular scale for individual governments or countries," adds co-author Professor Jim Hall of the University of Oxford and Principal Investigator of ITRC-MISTRAL. "This methodology can be used to identify where the single points of highest risk and vulnerability are in their transport infrastructure system. It can also identify risks to take into account when planning new road and rail systems." The research was funded by a grant from the UK Engineering and Physical Science Research Council to the Infrastructure Transitions Research Consortium (ITRC). ITRC is currently researching other impacts on infrastructure such as the impact and cost of disruption to supply chains in global transport networks, including quantifying direct and indirect losses to particular countries from impacts anywhere in the world. About the authors: Professor Jim Hall , Professor of Climate and Environmental Risks at the University of Oxford. His research interests focus on the management of climate-related risks in infrastructure systems, in particular those related to flooding, coastal erosion and water scarcity. Dr. Elco Koks is an economist and postdoctoral researcher at the University of Oxford. He has extensive experience in disaster risk modelling and management. His research interests focus on the development of macroeconomic modelling frameworks and infrastructure failure to assess the economy-wide disruptions due to disasters. Dr. Conrad Zorn is a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Oxford. His research interests focus on the modelling of impacts and recovery of interdependent infrastructure networks undergoing disruptions - particularly from earthquakes and flooding hazards.
Seniors Are Invited to "Ask the Pharmacist" at Important Community Outreach Program
Tue, Jun 25, 2019 13:03 EDT
FORT WORTH, TX - Most seniors today see multiple physicians and have multiple prescriptions, some of which often cause confusion and raise questions that need answers. Now local seniors can have their questions answered in a comfortable, friendly setting thanks to the "Ask the Pharmacist" program being offered by Care N' Care (HMO/PPO) Health Plan and its Care N' Community outreach initiative. Care N' Care will have a licensed pharmacist on-site from 2:30-3:30 p.m. on July 10 at the Northpark YMCA in Fort Worth and from 10:30-11:30 a.m. on July 16 at the Azle Senior Center in Azle. The event will include a short presentation on current topics and then ample time for questions and answers, so seniors are encouraged to come armed with their medication-related questions so they can leave better informed and more confident. "As people age so, too, rises the likelihood in the number of prescriptions they will be taking," says Shane Greene, Pharm. D., Care N' Care's director of clinical pharmacy services. "The average elderly ambulatory individual is taking more than five prescription medications, and the average nursing home patient is likely taking seven. While wonderful pharmaceutical advances are prolonging life and aiding greatly in the quality of life, it is essential that people fully understand what they are taking, how to maximize the effects of their medications, and what outcomes might they be likely to expect." Shane says that among the questions most commonly asked are how a new prescription may interact with current medications, what should a person do if they miss a dose of their medication, does it matter what time of day medications are taken, how should medicines be stored, and how long can medications be used after the expiration date. He says people are also curious about the role of a pharmacist, the difference between generic and brand name drugs, what is meant by a "drug formulary," and whether or not aging increases the risk for medication side effects. "Whatever your questions, this is your chance to get them answered and to feel confident that you know what you are putting in your body and why," says Greene. The Northpark YMCA is located at 9100 North Beach Street in Fort Worth. The Azle Senior Center is located at 601 Southeast Parkway in Azle. Care N' Care is a Medicare Advantage health plan providing North Texas Medicare beneficiaries in Tarrant, Johnson, Dallas, Collin, Denton, Rockwall, Hood, Wise and Parker counties affordable alternatives that improve and simplify Medicare coverage. With both PPO and HMO health plans, Care N' Care offers all of the traditional benefits included in original Medicare plus additional benefits and services, including a personal Healthcare Concierge to serve as the single point of contact and trusted partner throughout the member's healthcare experience. For more information about Care N' Care and its Medicare Advantage health plans, visit cnchealthplan.com .
Unite members vote for industrial action at Scottish Borders Council
Tue, Jun 25, 2019 11:55 EDT
Unite the union has today (25 June) confirmed that its membership in the Roads Department at Scottish Borders Council (SBC) have voted for industrial action. Of those voting, 86.4 per cent voted for strike action, and 95.7 per cent for action short of a strike, in a 78 per cent turnout. The result follows a series of detrimental changes being imposed by SBC to the terms and conditions of Unite's membership in the local authority's Roads Department. The changes include a reduction in pension accrual as a result of cuts to pensionable overtime rates, and the removal of paid travel time. Strike action, and action short a strike, is expected to take place from mid-July 2019 to mid-October 2019. Unite has strongly criticised SBC on there being no meaningful consultation or negotiation prior to its announcement of these imposed changes on the 15th April. If the changes are not reversed, then Unite will act to pursue claims for illegal deduction of wages. The ballot result also comes in the wake of figures released which show that SBC paid out £613,042 in exit packages for departing staff last year. Three of these packages are reported to total between £100,000 and £150,000. Willie Thomson, Unite regional industrial officer, said: " Scottish Borders Council's behaviour towards our members in the Roads Department has been disgraceful. The Council decision-makers seem more intent in targeting this group of hard working staff who have to brave all the elements, while at the same time being very relaxed and happy to agree exit packages for a number of individuals in management worth more than £100,000." "The public in the Borders should be rightly asking why are our Councillors and Council officials ripping up long established contractual arrangements with Roads Department workers which cost a fraction of these exit packages. If the Council think that our members are a soft touch then this strong mandate to proceed with strike action and action short of a strike should focus a few minds in the coming weeks. Unite will do everything we can to deliver fairness for this group of workers."
TNDV Owner Nic Dugger Named President of Midsouth Chapter of Television Academy, NATAS
Tue, Jun 25, 2019 11:34 EDT
Dugger to replace National Trustee Clifton Hunt of Nashville NewsChannel 5 After serving the organization for 22 years, Nashville native Nic Dugger has been elected President of the Midsouth Chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts and Scientist, NATAS, effective today. Nic most recently served as Vice President of the Board as well as the Student Awards Chairman. The Nashville/Midsouth Region, founded in 1984, encompasses North Carolina (except Asheville) and Tennessee, and the television market of Huntsville, Alabama. In addition to granting the Midsouth Regional Emmy® Awards, the chapter awards scholarships, honors quarter-century industry veterans with the Silver Circle. The chapter also conducts Regional Student Television Awards of Excellence for high schools, offers a free, nationwide Job Bank, provides member discounts, and participates in judging Emmy entries at regional and national levels. "Nic has been one of the most active members of our chapter since become an intern in 1997," says NATAS Midsouth Executive Director Geneva Brignolo. "He volunteered while a student at Middle Tennessee State University, and went on to provide his mobile units for our live telecasts when he started TNDV: Television in 2004. We are proud of Nic, and we look forward to many years of service to come." This new appointment adds to a growing list of accolades for Dugger, which includes TNDV;s recognition as Nashville's Overall Small Business of the Year in 2016. Nic also joined the list of the Nashville Business Journal's 40 under 40 in 2017, and was selected for the 2018 Distinguished Alumni Award by Middle Tennessee State University, its highest honor.
Unite welcomes Spacehub announcement in Sutherland
Tue, Jun 25, 2019 11:29 EDT
Unite the union has today (25 June) thrown its support behind the proposed Spacehub at A'Mhoine in North West Sutherland. The Sutherland site was selected from twenty six proposals submitted. Only two of the proposals were given grant funding those being Lockheed Martin and Orbex. The site selection was based on a number of criteria with the involvement of the UK Space agency in the due diligence process before the decision. The Spacehub will host the launching of small satellites from the A'Mhoine peninsula from the early 2020s. The development is viewed as a key part of Scotland's growing space sector as Highlands and Islands Enterprise claim around forty high quality jobs would be created locally, part of a total of more than 400 across the wider Highlands and Islands. Richard Whyte, Unite regional industrial officer, said: "Both the Highland Council and NHS Highland forecast large population decline in the coming years for Sutherland and Caithness. This means it's vital to attract investment in industries and skills such as the Spacehub project which will create hundreds of new high quality jobs in the area. There are currently billions of pounds worth of investment in energy and infrastructure taking place across the Highlands but much of the workforce drive up from the Central belt. We need to find ways to make sure as much of the investment benefits local people, particularly, young people leaving school who are looking for employment and that's why Unite is putting its full weight behind this project."
Searching to prove the last Will is a matter of protection
Tue, Jun 25, 2019 11:01 EDT
Neil Bates, Solicitor at Caris Robson LLP in Prudhoe, Northumberland, commented: "We were in possession of a Will written in 2014. There was a suggestion that there may be a later Will that the testator had made and we wanted to ensure as far as possible that everything had been done to establish that this was the last Will. We suggested that a Will search should be conducted as a safeguard, which would help to locate any later Wills." A Certainty Will Search Combined was conducted, which checks to see if a Will had been registered with the National Will Register and searches in geographically targeted areas for Wills that had not been registered. Neil continued: "The Certainty Will Search did not disclose any later Will. By incorporating a Certainty Will Search into our process in this instance, it assisted, in so far as was possible, in ensuring that we distributed the estate correctly and provided a reassurance that the Will we had before us was the last." Should a Will come to light after the estate has been distributed, Caris Robson LLP and their client are protected because they can demonstrate that a legally accredited Will search was undertaken to, as far as reasonably practicable, prove the last Will. A Certainty Will Search is a very low-cost disbursement from the estate that provides a high level of protection underpinned by leading Queen's Counsel Opinion. During the search a Will written four years earlier was located at another law firm 10 miles away. This allowed the law firm to denote on their records that a previous client had died and the Will they held had in fact been revoked by the 2014 Will. For further information on the types of searches you can carry out please contact us on 0330 100 3660 or email enquiries@certainty.co.uk.
Health & Wellbeing Top Agenda at The Emergency Services Show
Tue, Jun 25, 2019 10:57 EDT
Health & Wellbeing Top Agenda at The Emergency Services Show The importance of health and wellbeing issues, especially mental health, among all those serving in the emergency services and allied organisations returns as a key theme of The Emergency Services Show. Organisers of the event taking place at the NEC, Birmingham from 18 to 19 September have confirmed the speaker line up for its popular Health and Wellbeing Seminar Theatre. The Emergency Services Show will feature four dedicated theatres on the show floor hosting a wide range of thought-provoking, CPD-accredited seminar sessions over the two days of the event. The four theatres will focus on Health & Wellbeing, IT developments, Emerging Technologies for the emergency services and Lessons Learnt from operational incidents. The full two-day seminar programmes can be viewed at: https://www.emergencyuk.com/seminar-programme#/ Health & Wellbeing Seminar Theatre In #itsoktotalk Andy Elwood of Andy's Landie, former search and rescue paramedic, shares the mental health impact that traumatic events have had on his own life. He'll discuss how emotions of despair and elation are more difficult for men to talk about and how he releases his emotions in a positive way to stay healthy. British Red Cross will give an update on its Resilient Responders Programme which aims to build individual and team resilience through a range of psychosocial support and interventions. The Police Federation of England and Wales will talk about the findings of the first-ever survey looking at how the menopause affects police officers and staff in the workplace, and how the findings can be used to facilitate better support and inform future policy and guidance. Jennifer Hill, Watch Commander with West Midlands Fire Service will share the experiences of a primarily female fire service team deployed in civil war-strewn South Sudan. She will show how lessons learnt from the deployment can be applied to fire safety and community engagement in the UK. Ben Miller will introduce the Christian Ambulance Association and the support it offers to staff working in ambulance services and throughout the blue light sector. Oscar Kilo will be updating visitors on its National Police Wellbeing Service and talking about the "wellbeing van" it is bringing to the Show. This is one of a fleet of bespoke-fitted vans which can deploy to operating bases across England and Wales, offering physical, psychological and financial health checks to officers and staff, supported by occupational health staff from each force area. Jules Lockett, Practice Learning Manager, Control Services with the London Ambulance Service NHS Trust will discuss staff resilience in "Not Just A Voice". In PTSD - What's with the D? Gary Hayes and Simon Durance, Co-Founders of PTSD999 will explore their own experience of PTS and show visitors what they can do to make a difference. Devon and Cornwall Police will share details of the "surfing therapy" programme they have formulated for treating mental health conditions including stress and PTSD. It is based around a wealth of scientific research and ongoing projects in the military and charity sectors. Police Care UK will share the findings of a national police survey it undertook with the University of Cambridge which found that one in five police are suffering with a form of PTSD yet 83 per cent don't even know it. This session will talk about the practical steps that police can take now to improve their trauma resilience and training. The Emergency Services Show exhibition features over 450 exhibiting companies including leading names in vehicles and fleet, communications, technology, medical and fire fighting equipment, search and rescue, extrication, water rescue, first response, protective clothing and uniforms, public safety, vehicle equipment, training, community safety and station facilities. In the networking hub of the show, The Collaboration Zone, over 80 emergency services, voluntary groups, charities and NGOs will be sharing details of the support they offer. Organisations involved include The Ambulance Staff Charity, Christian Ambulance Association, Disabled Police Association, Oscar Kilo, Our Blue Light Charity, Police Care UK, PTSD999, St John Ambulance, the Fire Fighters Charity, UK Firefighters Sailing Challenge and the UK Hypnosis Academy. The Emergency Services Show is free to attend including the exhibition and CPD Seminars. Parking is also free. To find out more and register to attend visit www.emergencyuk.com Photo Captions: 1. Andy Elwood of Andy's Landie 2. Gary Hayes and Simon Durrance, Co-Founders of PTSD999 Further images available on request from: For all press enquiries please contact: Doug Bentall and Anna Dunbar at Iona Communications PR for The Emergency Services Show Tel: 01892 800164 doug@ionacommunications.com or anna@ionacommunications.com Emma Nicholls Marketing Manager emmanicholls@brodenmedia.com Social Media Show site www.emergencyuk.com Twitter @emergencyukshow #ESS2019 Facebook The Emergency Services Show Linked In: The Emergency Services Show Instagram: emergencyuk https://www.instagram.com/emergencyuk/ About the Emergency Services Show The Emergency Services Show (ESS) is aimed at anybody involved in emergency response, planning and recovery, including all blue light services, voluntary workers and service providers. Exhibitors include leading names in firefighting equipment, search and rescue, extrication, first response, communications, IT, protective clothing and uniforms, vehicles and fleet, vehicle equipment, outsourcing, training, community safety, station facilities, water rescue and medical supplies. ESS is a trade show only and not a public event. There is no entry to under-16s. Student group visits by application only this year: please email emmanicholls@brodenmedia.com
Aftermarket spark plugs with more power than OE! DENSO celebrates 10 years of TT Spark Plug technology
Tue, Jun 25, 2019 09:42 EDT
DENSO is celebrating 10 years of its patented Twin Tip (TT) Spark Plug technology. Unique to the independent aftermarket, DENSO's TT Spark Plugs are available in nickel and iridium, offering 87% car parc coverage throughout Europe. Since the introduction of Nickel TT in 2009 and Iridium TT in 2015, the range has continued to grow in popularity, with its market share increasing 25% year-on-year over the past six years.
Utilisation durable de l'eau dans l'industrie de la volaille
Tue, Jun 25, 2019 09:20 EDT
Irrigation des terres désertiques avec des eaux traitées Aujourd'hui, le mot « durabilité » est sur toutes les lèvres et l'industrie de la volaille ne fait pas exception. Ce secteur d'activité s'efforce lui aussi de répondre aux problèmes de la consommation d'énergie, de l'empreinte carbone, de la sécurité alimentaire, de la traçabilité et de la consommation en eau. Pour une utilisation responsable des ressources en eau, Marel Poultry propose des solutions à la fois robustes et pratiques. Mazzraty, au Qatar, est une usine de transformation de la volaille qui l'illustre parfaitement. Elle est équipée d'un ingénieux système de gestion de l'eau. La volaille a une faible empreinte carbone et n'utilise que peu de ressources telles que l'engrais la, terre et l'eau. La consommation en eau nécessaire à la production du poulet est relativement modeste, puisqu'il ne faut que 2 000 litres d'eau pour produire 1 kg de viande de poulet. À titre de comparaison, il faut 17 000 litres d'eau pour produire 1 kg de chocolat. L'eau n'est pas perdue Cependant, on aurait tort de penser que cette eau est perdue. Il existe différentes options de recyclage pour traiter ces eaux usées et permettre leur réutilisation. L'industrie de la volaille a justement développé de nouvelles solutions à cette fin. Au Qatar, Mazzraty a fait appel à Marel Water Treatment pour installer le système de traitement de l'eau la plus moderne d'aujourd'hui. L'usine de transformation de volaille se situe dans un désert, où rien ne pousse. Mazzraty sait donc à quel point les ressources en eau sont précieuses dans de telles circonstances. Traitement Tout commence dans l'enceinte même de l'usine de transformation. L'eau utilisée pour le transport, le nettoyage et les différentes étapes de transformation est collectée et acheminée jusqu'au système de traitement de l'eau. Dans la première phase, le pré-traitement physique élimine les matières grasses et les grosses particules. Après cela, le processus biologique prend en charge la décomposition des polluants dissouts dans un grand bassin et les convertit en boue biologique et en eau purifiée. Irrigation À proximité directe de l'usine de transformation de volaille, quatre grands cercles de verdure attirent immédiatement le regard au milieu d'une vaste étendue de sable jaune. Il s'agit des terres irriguées, rendues fertiles grâce à l'eau résiduaire de Mazzraty. En marge du nettoyage des camions de transport, l'eau assainie est particulièrement bien adaptée à l'irrigation des terres arides. L'entreprise est en mesure d'utiliser quatre systèmes à pivot central pour irriguer des terres divisées en quatre parcelles mesurant chacune 800 x 800 m. Mazzraty fait principalement pousser de l'herbe, qui sert ensuite à la production d'aliments pour l'élevage. Impact faible Les installations de Mazzraty sont conçues pour ne pas gâcher de matériaux ou laisser de matières résiduelles. Toutes les activités visent à réduire l'impact sur l'environnement. La réutilisation des eaux épurées de l'usine comme eau d'irrigation fait partie du plus vaste plan environnemental, qui prévoit également une réduction des émissions de CO2 et la production des aliments pour ses poulets. Mazzraty démontre ainsi les méthodes de travail les plus durables dans l'industrie de la volaille.
Hundreds of classic cars head to Bushey
Tue, Jun 25, 2019 09:02 EDT
Hundreds of classic cars from all over the South East will head to the annual Watford and District Classic Vehicle Club's summer classic car show at the Bushey Sports club this Saturday -and everyone is invited. "If you have a classic car or just want to bring the family and take part in a great day out then we would love to see you," said Chris Hardy, Chairman of the club who have staged the event in Bushey for the last six years. He added: "The event is free all we ask is a donation for charity which will benefit, Alzheimer's Research UK, the Essex and Herts Air Ambulance, Prostrate Cancer, Arthritis Research UK and Pancreatic cancer UK as well as local charities." Since the club started collecting for charities at their three annual events in Bushey and Croxley Green they have raised in excess of £75,000.00 and this year are celebrating their 25th anniversary. If you do have a Classic Car, and bring it to the event you could enter it for the clubs "choice award", and have a chance of winning a special trophy. In addition to the classic cars there will a children's funfair, stalls selling a variety of items from handicrafts to automobilia, great food and a bar. Chris said: " We are looking forward to a great family day out, seeing some exciting cars and raising money for some great charities." The event, which takes place at the Bushey Sports Club, Aldenham Road, Bushey, Hertfordshire, starts at 10am and finishes at 5pm. The clubs other two events at Croxley Green take place on Wednesday August 7th from 2pm onwards and on Sunday September 15th from 10am until 5pm with Carters Steam fair.
Unite offshore members accept COTA offer
Tue, Jun 25, 2019 08:55 EDT
Unite the union today (25 June) has announced offshore catering members have voted to accept a recent pay offer from the Catering Offshore Trade Association (COTA). Following a consultative ballot, a 3 per cent basic pay offer was overwhelmingly accepted by 92 per cent. COTA members deliver catering and ancillary services across installations in the UK Continental Shelf (UKCS). Unite regional industrial officer, Vic Fraser said: "The offer included a 3 per cent pay rise on all rates of pay and an improvement on current terms and conditions. This included the overtime rate now being payable for all offshore delays including weather delay. This is another major win for Unite in the offshore sector, and we will continue to fight to improve all our offshore members' terms and conditions whether that be within the Catering, Construction or Drilling sectors."
1st Roffey Scout Group receives funds to replace floor
Tue, Jun 25, 2019 08:08 EDT
1st Roffey Scout Group in Horsham has received £500 of funding to help replace its floor after winning a community fund campaign run by Kingsfold based builders' merchant NYEs Building Supplies. Started by NYEs in 2018, the Proud to be Local initiative offers community groups, charities and good causes the chance to receive £500 funding towards a project of their choice. It's run four times a year and anyone can put forward a nomination. Three shortlisted finalists from each round go head to head in a public vote to determine the winner. Votes can be cast by email, on Facebook and at the NYEs depot. Graham Maskell, Chairman of 1st Roffey Scout Group, said: "Winning these funds is truly fantastic news. It's a much-needed boost to our fundraising efforts towards replacing the floor in our scout hut. We cannot thank NYEs enough for giving us the opportunity to prove that we are 'proud to be local' and for awarding us these funds." Rex Nye, Managing Director of NYEs, said: "It's great to see how the funding from our campaign is helping to make a difference to our community. Congratulations to 1st Roffey Scout Group. I'm looking forward to seeing the floor hopefully completed in the not too distant future." Nominations are now being taken for the next round of Proud to be Local. Community groups, charities and worthy causes all have the chance to receive £500 funding. To make a nomination, please email proudtobelocal@dwnye.co.uk by midnight on Sunday 21st July 2019.
Sustainable water use in the poultry industry
Tue, Jun 25, 2019 07:47 EDT
PRESS RELEASE Boxmeer, June 25, 2019 Treated water reused for irrigation purposes in the desert Sustainable water use in the poultry industry Sustainability is a subject that is on everybody's lips today. The poultry industry is making many efforts to tackle this issue and comes up with various solutions concerning energy saving, CO2 footprint, food safety, traceability and water use. For responsible water use, Marel Poultry offers solid practical solutions. One clear example of this is the Mazzraty poultry processing plant in Qatar, equipped with a well thought-out water management system. Chicken production has a naturally low carbon footprint and requires a limited amount of resources, such as fertilizer, land and water. Using 2,000 liters of water to produce 1 kilo of chicken meat, poultry production needs a fairly modest amount of water. Just to compare, 1 kilo of chocolate uses 17,000 liters of water. Water isn't lost However, water use doesn't mean that this water is lost. Recycling options are available to treat the water and make it fit for renewed use. The poultry industry has elaborated solutions for this. Mazzraty in Qatar called in the help of Marel Water Treatment to set up today's most modern water treatment installation. This poultry facility is located in the desert, where nothing grows, so Mazzraty is highly aware of the importance of clean water in these circumstances. Treatment Water Treatment starts already in the poultry processing plant. All water used for transport, for cleaning and for the various stages of processing, is collected and drained to the waste water treatment facilities. In the first phase, the physical pretreatment takes out fat material and larger coarse parts. After that, the biological process in a big basin decomposes the pollution and converts it to biological sludge and purified water. Irrigation In the direct surroundings of Mazzraty's poultry processing plant, four large green circles in the middle of the yellow sand plain catch the eye. This is irrigated land, made fertile with the help of Mazzraty's treated water. Besides being used for truck washing, the purified water is excellently fit for artificial irrigation of areas that are otherwise dry land. Mazzraty manages to drive four center pivot systems with this recycled water to irrigate four quarter sections (each 800x800m). The company grows mainly grass, which they can use in their feed mills. Lowest impact Mazzraty's facility has been designed to not waste or leave behind residual material and all activities aim at causing the lowest possible impact on the environment. The reuse of cleaned waste water from the factory as irrigation water is part of Mazzraty's bigger environmental plan, which also involves a reduced CO2 emission and production of their own chicken feed. In this way, Mazzraty demonstrates one of the most sustainable ways of working in the poultry industry. ### More information: marel.com/water-treatment Picture caption: Mazzraty uses treated water to irrigate the desert land surrounding the poultry processing plant in Qatar. Download here the high- resolution image accompanying this press release. More on Marel Poultry Marel Poultry is the leading global provider of advanced food processing systems and services, supplying innovative inline solutions for broilers, turkeys and ducks for all process stages and all capacity levels. The product range includes top quality equipment for live bird handling, up to evisceration, giblet harvesting and processing, chilling, grading, cut-up, deboning, bone detection, portioning, batching, end-product logistics, software solutions and service contracts.
New, Highly Cost-Effective Vacuum Grippers
Tue, Jun 25, 2019 06:25 EDT
The big benefit of the Robotiq Grippers from RARUK Automation is they need no specialist knowledge to install them. A Plug + Play kit and intuitive software enables the gripper to be programmed directly on the robot's touchscreen in the space of just a few minutes. This key characteristic applies to the entire range including two new vacuum grippers to the RARUK Automation range - the AirPick and EPick. Both are fully customisable vacuum grippers and compatible with all top cobots including the Universal Robots also supplied by RARUK Automation. They provide manufacturers with a versatile and cost-efficient alternative to complicated custom-designed solutions that are both expensive and inflexible. The new additions are designed to give manufacturers full control of automation processes, including pick-and-place assembly, packaging, palletising, sanding and machine-tending. They are ideal for picking up even and uneven workpieces made from different materials such as cardboard, glass, dry sheet metal and plastic. A customisable bracket and unique air nodes, that link the air tubes to the suction cups, enable the gripper to be optimally applied to the application. EPick operates without an air supply - making it highly mobile - and AirPick has a powerful vacuum flow. Both models can also be combined with the Robotiq Wrist Camera, also available from RARUK Automation, to teach the gripper to handle new parts. Also new from RARUK Automation is the Robotiq Sanding Kit, the world's first hardware and software sanding solution for Universal Robots. The kit can reduce set-up and programming time to a matter of minutes. Taking maximum advantage of the Robotiq FT300 Force Torque Sensor, the Sanding Kit features a built-in path generator for consistent force during each cycle - a key feature in finishing tasks that require material removal. Watch the video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jSPvucHNKGg&feature=youtu.be -ENDS- For press enquiries and additional images please contact NEW RIVER Tel: 01920 468443 Email: info@newriver.co.uk www.newriver.co.uk
OSA Approves SGS Colombia as a Certification Body for El Salvador's Regulated Products Market
Tue, Jun 25, 2019 04:58 EDT
SGS, the world's leading inspection, verification, testing and certification company, has been recognized in Colombia by El Salvador's accreditation organization, OSA, as an approved certification body for those organizations looking to import regulated products into El Salvador. SGS in Colombia gained recognition based on IAF and IACC agreements between accreditation body members. The accreditation gives SGS the authority to certify a range of products that for import into El Salvador, and include: Room air conditioner ≤ 36000 BTU/h Central air conditioner > 36000 BTU/h Domestic refrigerators Commercial refrigerators Jhon Cediel, Technical Supervisor, SGS said: "This recognition from the OSA is a welcome endorsement of the competence and reliability of our test laboratories and is great news for the company and our clients. It means that those organizations looking to import and/or export to El Salvador can achieve certification through one process that meets the regulation standards required by El Salvador and Columbia. Our clients continue to benefit from our growing range of local solutions and global services." Recognition was given in May 2019 and will be valid until next October 8, 2019 with the possibility to be extended. For further information contact: Jhon Cediel Technical Supervisor E&E SGS Colombia Tel: + 57 315 726 04 84
SGS Colombia first Certification Body (CB) to be accredited by ONAC for primary battery testing
Tue, Jun 25, 2019 04:34 EDT
SGS, the leading provider of verification, inspection, testing and certification services, has become first company in Colombia to be accredited by ONAC, Colombia's National Accreditation Body, to certify products in accordance with Resolution 0721-2018, the primary battery regulation. Following a review by Colombia's Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Tourism and the Ministry of the Environment and Sustainable Development the country's new primary battery regulation, Resolution 0721-2018, comes into force in July 2019, replacing Resolution 0172-2012. The new Resolution sets out the minimum information requirements applicable to zinc-carbon and alkaline cell and battery labels and markings to establish the maximum permitted levels for the heavy metals in such products. This accreditation from ONAC, a member of the International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation (ILAC), means SGS can provide testing services for batteries against this regulation in any ILAC laboratory, such as its affiliates in the USA, China, Europe or Brazil and issue product certification for the Colombian market. Jhon Cediel, Technical Supervisor, SGS said: "As the country's leading provider of verification, inspection, testing and certification services, we are proud to lead the way in becoming the first Certification Body in Colombia to gain this important accreditation. We look forward to working with organizations to help ensure the compliance of products against the new regulations and to support industry and business in reducing their impact on the natural environment." ONAC, a non-profit corporation constituted in 2007, works to accredit the technical competence of Conformity Assessment Bodies, to exercise as a monitoring authority in good laboratory practices of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) and to perform the functions of the National Accreditation Body. SGS Battery Testing Services Leading the way, SGS's ISO/IEC 17025 accredited testing laboratories and specialized local experts have extensive experience with battery testing, and offer a range of services to manufacturers and buyers in the industry: Abuse Benchmarking Durability Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) Life cycle analysis Performance Safety standards Transportation With unrivaled experience SGS can provide all the required technical verifications, safety settings and factory auditing services. Learn more about SGS battery testing services. For further information contact: Rachel Nissley Global Marketing Manager, Electrical and Electronics SGS North America Tel: +1 770 570 1849 Website: www.sgs.com/ee
Fall protection training: 10 top tips for success
Tue, Jun 25, 2019 03:37 EDT
Phil Rashbrook, European Training Manager for Fall Protection at MSA Safety shares his 10 top tips to refer to when considering fall protection training. MSA Safety is a global designer, manufacturer and distributor of industry-leading safety products and provider of quality safety at height training. 1.) Preparation is key The old adage of 'fail to prepare, prepare to fail' carries significant weight when it comes to working at height. Preparation is critical, and it all begins with quality training, so consider your fall protection training carefully. Ask yourself: Is it with a reputable company with a wealth of experience across many sectors? Are they best placed to prepare your workforce for working at height safely and efficiently? Remember, you can't put a price on the safety of your workers so do your research. Invest in the best training available that will leave your workforce confident and competent. 2.) Theory and practical: finding the balance Some trainees are impatient to get going with the practical straight away. Others prefer ample time to carefully digest the theory and ask any questions they might have. Everyone learns differently, which is why it's so important to strike a successful balance between the two. Training should be delivered in a manner that is effective for everyone. 3.) Added confidence Working at height safely and efficiently depends not only on skill but having the confidence to make the right decisions at the right time; whether that's knowing the limitations of equipment and how to use it properly or deciding whether conditions are safe enough. Confident operatives will feel empowered to thoroughly and accurately assess their surroundings for safety risks, ask questions and raise potential safety concerns with their site or safety manager. This generally makes for a much safer working environment. 4.) Creating safety ambassadors Get your team onboard. Work at height operatives returning from fall protection training will feel more encouraged to share their safety knowledge with colleagues. This helps to not only foster a safer working environment but discourage any semblance of a 'no blame culture'. 5.) Don't forget the wellbeing benefits While the main priority of quality fall protection training is to help prevent physical harm, the mental wellbeing benefits it offers should not be overlooked. Being asked to work at height without proper planning, preparation and training in place can be extremely distressing. A well-trained, competent operative will likely make for a more confident, comfortable worker. 6.) Keep it fun! Something that's often forgotten is the value of keeping training fun and engaging. In my experience, if you enjoy training you will learn and retain more information. An enjoyable experience generally helps to nurture a positive change in attitude. 7.) Location, location, location Conducting training on site in conditions workers face on a day-to-day basis is preferential, but not always possible. The next best thing is a state-of-the-art training centre with both indoor facilities protected from inclement weather, and outdoor facilities with multiple applications. Choose training providers that can offer both. 8.) Follow-up support Support shouldn't stop once training has finished. Follow-up should be a key feature of a quality training provider, from offering the option of return visits and continued support, to conducting site audits and helping operatives to fully realise the benefits of the training. 9.) Think of it as an investment Quality training not only makes for a safer workforce but helps to provide operatives with the know-how to do their job better and more efficiently. And, in my experience, a more confident, competent workforce is usually a happier and more productive workforce. The long-term business and wellbeing benefits of a well-trained workforce cannot be underestimated. 10.) Just get it done My other nine tips are important, but if you take away anything from reading this it should be this: whatever you do, do not take risks. The safety and wellbeing of your workforce is too important for you not to provide them with the very best training, so don't delay. Do your research and choose a training provider you can depend upon.
Aberdeen Airport strike action to go ahead after pay offer rejection
Tue, Jun 25, 2019 03:28 EDT
Unite the union today (25 June) announced that its membership at Aberdeen Airport have rejected the latest pay offer, and voted to continue strike action this week. The latest pay offer by Aberdeen Airport was rejected by 62.8 per cent, and by 71.5 per cent to reject the pension proposal and to continue with the dispute. The ballot turnout was 96 per cent. Strike action will now go ahead at Aberdeen Airport on 27 and 28 June both commencing at 06:00 to 10:00 a.m. The pay offer for 2019 by Aberdeen Airport remained the basic 3 per cent with a new one off payment of £600 for full time employees but the bonus plan has now been removed. Next year, Aberdeen Airport proposed an annual pay offer identical to the Retail Price Index figure in January 2020. AGS Airports Limited who own Aberdeen and Glasgow Airports remain unwilling to discuss or reopen the consultation on closing the pension scheme.This position breaks an Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service (Acas) agreement made in 2016 to keep the scheme open to existing members. Unite has also reiterated its concerns over airport security following media revelations at the weekend, which highlighted breaches in airport security due to contingency staff brought in during strike action at Aberdeen and Glasgow Airports. Aberdeen Airport is part of AGS Airports Limited group, which also owns Glasgow where a series of industrial stoppages are taking pace over the coming days. Aberdeen Airport increased after tax profits from £10.7 million in 2016 to £19.1 million in 2017. Shauna Wright, Unite regional industrial officer, said: " Unite took the latest pay offer back to our membership at Aberdeen Airport to let them decide on the course of action. It was vital that our members had the opportunity to consider and respond to Aberdeen Airport and the AGS Group. The message our members have sent could not be any clearer or any louder." "Let's hope this second strong mandate shows Aberdeen Airport management that they need to come back around the table with an offer Unite can support so that we can find a remedy to this dispute. Unite's members have democratically voted to continue strike action and this action will continue unless they receive a significantly better offer. We will wait to hear from airport management on whether they wish to get back round the negotiating table or whether they are more interested in needlessly escalating this dispute." Unite members at Aberdeen Airport have previously taken two 12-hour stoppages on 7 and 10 June. In April, Unite members at Aberdeen Airport supported strike action by 88.3 per cent on a 79.5 per cent turnout over the pay claim and the proposals to close the final salary pension scheme.
Founded in 1991, Nevada City Summer Nights May Well Be the Ultimate Street Soiree
Mon, Jun 24, 2019 21:44 EDT
Founded in 1991, Nevada City Summer Nights May Well Be the Ultimate Street Soiree NEVADA CITY, CA. June 25, 2019-If you stay around the Sierra Nevada Foothills long enough, you realize that there is bound to be a certain amount of blending between fact and fiction-after all, there was a reason Mark Twain and Bret Harte loved this place. So when I asked how Nevada City's Summer Nights got started in 1991, it was sort of expected that there would be a bit of legend along with the tale. So far, however, most people who were there, chose to stay mum and let what goes on in Nevada City, stay in Nevada City. The event, which lights up the town each July for three sequential Wednesday nights-this year July 17th, 24th and 31st-has its roots in day-dreaming about those 'hot summer nights' in Mexico, where people come out after siesta and enjoy a pleasant evening with music, socializing, street food and often dancing. So it was that Pat Dyer (Utopian Stone Jeweler), Greg Cook (Friar Tuck restaurant founder) and Cathy Whittlesey (Chamber of Commerce ED) decided it was time to take these 'South of the Border' concepts and combine them with the successful Victorian Christmas event format-but with a focus on family-friendly summer fun and entertainment, rather than shopping. Summer Nights was an immediate success, and for many, is their favorite Nevada City tradition. Streets close, bands sprinkled throughout town play, and together with great food and craft vendors create an unmistakable, pure summer atmosphere. Add some vintage cars, a face painter, and well, you've got quite a mix... This year will be another music-filled street soiree. So if you haven't ever been, it's time to check it out. If you are a regular attendee, then you know this is an event not to be missed. 2019 Nevada City Summer Nights 6 pm to 9:30 pm Downtown Nevada City Free and Open to the Public JULY 17 Running '4 Cover Cousin Cricket Troupe Al Ama David Ayala Gary & Eva Ludi Hinrichs Jazz John Girton JULY 24 In the Moment Ivan Najera Bob Woods Trio World Beatnix David Ayala Troupe Al Ama JULY 31 Star People Band Stephen Holland Troupe Al Ama George Souza David Ayala Sgt. Funky The Summer Nights celebration is sponsored by the Nevada City Chamber of Commerce. For information, call (530) 265-2692 or (800) 655-NJOY. www.nevadacitychamber.com Getting There Nevada City is located at the 2,500-foot elevation on the forested western slope of the Sierra Nevada. Summer days and evenings are cooler than in the Sacramento Valley. From Sacramento, take eastbound Interstate 80 to Auburn and Highway 49 north to Nevada City. It's a one-hour drive from the capital. From Marysville and the north valley, take eastbound Highway 20. From Reno and Lake Tahoe, take westbound I-80 and state route 20. Take the Shuttle to Downtown Drop your group off in town and then park your car and catch the Shuttle from the Nevada County Government Center, 950 Maidu Avenue, Nevada City CA 95959. Shuttle costs $5 for adults and children 15 and over. Children under 15 ride free. Return journeys are free for all. Dogs are allowed on the shuttle, on a leash or in your lap!! Shuttle hours are 5:30-10:00 pm each Wednesday. Photo Caption: Nevada City's Summer Nights for 2019 continues a great tradition with a family-friendly street soiree featuring free live entertainment, face-painting, vintage cars and many vendors. Downtown Nevada City July 17th, 24th and 31st from 6-9: 30pm .
Milhaus announces Artistry Cincinnati
Mon, Jun 24, 2019 17:40 EDT
Milhaus announces Artistry Cincinnati $75 million, 344 apartment Opportunity Zone Project in Downtown Cincinnati INDIANAPOLIS - Milhaus , a national award-winning developer, owner and operator of class A, in-fill and mixed-use developments in emerging markets, today announces Artistry Cincinnati, a $75 million mixed-use, seven-story apartment project at 601 Pete Rose Way in downtown Cincinnati. Artistry Cincinnati will include 344 apartments, 8,000 square feet of commercial space, and 390 parking spaces. "Artistry will offer the best of all aspects of Cincinnati urban living including close proximity to the city's best employment center and entertainment districts, all while being in a quiet location along the beautiful Ohio River Trail," says Jake D. Dietrich, director of development for Milhaus. The project's location is noteworthy due to the site within one of Cincinnati's federally designated Opportunity Zones. The tax benefits for investors in Opportunity Zones help make constrained sites more attractive for capital investment. This will be Milhaus's second project to be built in an Opportunity Zone. Milhaus anticipates closing on financing and breaking ground in late summer 2019 with an opening in summer 2021. This will be the third project in the Cincinnati market for Milhaus. Two others include the 124-unit Poste project under construction in Walnut Hills and the 131-unit completed Gantry in Northside.
