10 Ways to Avoid an Ignition Interlock License Suspension

Ignition interlock devices are systems utilized in most states, as well as Canada, as an alternative sentencing measure for DUI offenders. Ignition interlock devices are designed similar to the preliminary screening breathalyzer devices utilized in law enforcement, with the notable difference that they are affixed to the transmission of a DUI offender's vehicle. The device requires the driver to breathe into a tube, after which the car can be started, provided the driver's blood alcohol level has proved to be below a pre-set limit. In Massachusetts, that limit is .02.



In addition to requiring a breath sample in order to start the vehicle, ignition interlock devices will also occasionally require random tests as the car is being driven. These "rolling re-tests" are a precautionary measure to ensure that the DUI offender does not allow a surrogate to breathe into the tube in order to start their car while he or she is intoxicated. If no breath sample is provided, or if the sample exceeds acceptable blood alcohol levels, the device will log the event and sound an alarm until the vehicle's ignition is turned off. Ignition interlock violations will likely result in the suspension of the interlock user's driver's license.



Although the implementation of ignition interlock sentencing has gained many supporters, the devices themselves have come under fire by those who find them unreliable and prone to malfunctioning. Opponents of ignition interlock systems point out that they lack the technical sophistication of the breathalyzers used in law enforcement, and cannot be relied on to make the distinction between alcohol and a variety of other chemicals. There are even claims that they frequently malfunction to the point where the device can pick up and misread traces of chemicals found in the car, such as windshield wiper fluid and aerosol air fresheners, and log the results as a high blood alcohol level. Numerous foods, including coffee, chocolate, and various spices have also been shown to cause a false reading.



Due to these potential malfunctions, as well as false readings attributable to the devices susceptibility to environmental factors such as heat, cold, and humidity, many motorists find themselves unfairly served with a license suspension notice. An ignition interlock suspension can last from anywhere from 10 years to life, so it's important to take precautions when it comes to avoiding an ignition interlock license suspension.



Here are a few tips:



Stay Away from ALL Kinds of Alcohol



Always be sure to avoid products that contain alcohol of any kind. Even items as innocuous as mouthwash or cough drops can mislead an ignition interlock device into logging a false blood alcohol level. This even extends to non-consumables. For instance, hand sanitizer has been shown to mislead an ignition interlock device simply by being near the device.





Be Careful What You Eat



Eating while driving will only increase the probability of receiving a false reading during a random breath test. Keep your mouth free from food.



Water



Try to keep a supply of water with you at all times in the car, in order to rinse your mouth of any potential problems and contaminants prior to a random test.



Lay off the Wiper Fluid



Windshield wiper fluid can produce alcohol vapors that are carried into the vehicle's interior via the air conditioning, fan, or defroster. Because ignition interlock devices tend to be very sensitive, these vapors can easily result in a false reading. To avoid this problem, try not use fluid to clean your windshield while running the air conditioning, defroster, or fan.



Keep a Record



Keep a notebook in the car at all times in order to document any potential false readings during a random test. Be sure to compose a detailed account immediately after the incident, noting any factors which may have adversely affected the test result. You can also use this notebook to maintain an account of any and all other problems stemming from the ignition interlock device.



Get Documentation



If your device gives a false reading, make an effort to immediately reach a police station or hospital where you can request a comparison breathalyzer test. Maintain organized documentation of this test and its results.



Go Straight to the Source



If you and/or your vehicle are experiencing frequent problems stemming from your ignition interlock system, contact the interlock device's service provider with your concerns. You can request that your interlock be examined and even replaced if need be.



Keep a Record



You'll also want to keep an extensive, running record of all your interactions with the interlock device's provider company, maintaining a list of all problems, incidents, and concerns you've expressed to the company, as well as a record of dates, times, and names of the employees you've contacted.



Use Your Head



If you feel like there is even a miniscule chance that you will fail your breath test, just don't try it. Whether you've legitimately consumed alcohol or just have minty fresh breath after rinsing with mouthwash, stay away from your vehicle until you are absolutely sure you will pass the test. Remember, even if you somehow squeak past the initial ignition test, you'll still be subject to repeated random tests as you drive.



Get Legal Help



If your device leads to an ignition interlock, contact a lawyer immediately. Do not wait until you receive a suspension hearing notice; instead, make the first move in order to better protect yourself. Many lawyers now specialize in ignition interlock cases. By taking immediate action, you stand a better chance of retaining your license in the face of suspension.Dealing with agencies such as the Registry of Motor Vehicles can be frustrating, confusing, and sometimes difficult. Our ma dui attorneys are familiar with RMV regulations and procedures as well as the laws governing ignition interlock devices, license suspensions and hardship licenses. There is no reason to struggle alone with complicated laws and harsh penalties.

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How to Start a Dry Cleaning Business

What is the key to success with a dry cleaning business? Offer high value to your customers and situate your storefront in a high traffic location, and your dry cleaning business can do very well.

How Much Does It Cost to Start?

A dry cleaning business is generally expensive to launch. Machinery alone can cost about $150,000 for a start up business, according to Jon Meijer, vice president of membership for the International Fabricare Institute. On top of that, other up front expenses include a storefront lease and other business equipment, furniture and supplies.

If you don't have the money to start a dry cleaning business, but you are interested in working in this profitable field, consider starting a mobile dry cleaning service. Now, rather than paying for high-priced machinery and a building lease, you simply need a van, a mobile phone and laundry bags for customers to use on their cleaning orders.

How Can You Make More Money?

In addition to the standard services, you can implement multiple revenue streams into your operation. Additional services like dry cleaning delivery, alterations of clothing repairs can add to your profits. Besides increasing revenue, adding services gives you a competitive advantage on other local dry cleaners. When you provide multiple services in one place, customers looking to save time and money will tend to look at your business favorably.

What are the Key Success Factors?

A good location will be a major asset to your dry cleaning shop. Convenience can also draw more customers to you. Provide plenty of parking for your clientele to make it easy for them to stop in on their way home from work or while out running errands.

What are the Dry Cleaning Business Regulations?

Several environmental regulations affect the dry cleaning industry, and you can get more information on them at the Environmental Protection Agency website. If you do your dry cleaning on-site, there are different cleaning methods that you can choose from, but your location may dictate which methods you are allowed to use.

Going Green:

There are also popular business opportunities in "green dry cleaning", where you use non-toxic cleaning methods instead of the standard dry cleaning chemical perchloroethylene (PERC).

Whether your choose the traditional storefront business model, you go mobile or go green, focus on giving your customer what they want when they want it. If you can make your customer happier because they came into the dry cleaner today - you are likely to have that customer for life.

Visit HomeBusinessCenter.com to get the How to Start a Dry Cleaning Business start up guide and business plan template.

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Identifying The Adverse Environmental Impact Of Refrigerant Properties

There are over 100 types of refrigerants, aside from water, which are used in many applications and processes in various types of industries. Refrigerant properties are primarily very useful in the cooling and refrigeration processes. However, refrigerant properties like HCFCs and CFCs can severely damage the environment as it depletes the ozone layer.

In designing any air conditioning, cooling or refrigeration system, four refrigerant properties are usually considered. Cost effectiveness and operational efficiency are high on the list, along with low toxicity and flammability. There are industry standards and tests to document efficiency and safety levels for these factors.

Refrigerant properties are of particular concern to environmental government agencies worldwide because some of the chemical substances used in certain types of refrigerants lead to ozone depletion or have a high global warming potential. The U.S. Major global treaties which imply regulation refrigerant emissions from systems include the Montreal Protocol and the Clean Air Act.

Some of the refrigerant properties which cause harmful effects to the environment include chlorofluorocarbons and hydrochlorofluorocarbons. The gases remain in the atmosphere for hundreds of years, thus depleting the ozone layer that protects the earth from the sun's harmful rays. If no serious action will be taken, climate change results from increased global warming due to greenhouse gases.

There are various classes of refrigerant properties. Refrigerants with toxicity levels below 400ppm are Class B, while those without toxicity levels below or equal to 400ppm in volume are Class A. In addition, numerical designations, ranging from Class 1 to Class 3, indicate flame propagation, with Class 3 being refrigerants that are highly flammable.

Among the refrigerant properties being considered to replace chemicals that are harmful to the environment include ammonia, carbon dioxide, propane and HFC32. However, these alternatives bring additional concerns. Ammonia is considered the preferred refrigerant because there are no global warming concerns. Since it is toxic and combustible, its use is best for certain controlled applications, such as commercial or large facility use.

While carbon dioxide has no safety concerns, the need to use more electricity would negate any global warming reduction. Propane, under consideration as an alternative in refrigerators, is risky because it is very combustible. HFC32 is a hydrochlorofluorocarbon that is efficient and has no global warming impact. However, it could be combustible under certain conditions, so additional safety measures are needed.

Tracking and reporting of refrigerant properties are required under global government treaties to gain a better understanding of how extensive the use of harmful refrigerants are and to measure the amount of dangerous substances released into the air during a refrigerant leak. This will enable scientists to better formulate the extent and impact of global warming and ozone depletion in coming years and devise additional prevention methods.

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What Is Yoli?

Yoli in Aztec means, "to live". It is fitting because Yoli is a company dedicated to helping people of all ages improve their health. Yoli has come up with a new beverage technology called the "blast cap" that takes all-natural ingredients that are antioxidants and help alkaline the body, and puts them into a blast cap that goes into water to become the one beverage that has all of the good, and none of the bad.

Incorporating wholesome Vitamin C and a proprietary blend of some of the most popular ingredients of the day: Pomegranate, Alkaplex®, Acai extract, Gogi Berry, Resveratrol, Oxyphyte™ White Tea extract, Probiotics, and Monatau®, Yoli Blast Caps® deliver to the market a healthy alternative to all of the nutrient-deprived, sweetened beverages most people are consuming every day.

Once you blast a delicious TRUTH Blast™ and experience it for yourself, you'll never go back to common liquid beverages ever again. And as you re-use your Yoli bottle and only re-order the Yoli Blast Caps®, you'll be doing your part to save the environment by slowly eliminating the need for plastic bottles.

More than just a word, TRUTH™ is the name of Yoli's very first formulation. Loaded with many of today's most popular superfruits and antioxidants, all in their freshest, most potent state, with enzymes, probiotics and even 200% of the RDA of Vitamin C added to boost the immune system. No beverage in the marketplace can compete.

Proprietary antioxidant & absorption blends, zero artificial sugars, low glycemic index and just 10 calories. Simply Twist, Blast, & Shake. Yoli is sweetened with the plant, Stevia, so it takes great, without the artificial colors or flavors.

Yoli TRUTH Health Blasts™ offer a healthy, fun alternative to nutrient-deprived and chemical-laden pasteurized liquid beverages that currently predominate the marketplace.

Yoli FUN Health Blasts™ offer the "Alkalite" technology. This is a mineral complex that:

helps increase the absorption of nutrients and vitamins.

reduces the acidity of foods and beverages without damaging flavor

achieves a systemic alkaline balance in the body to improve health aging and athletic performance

Since the Yoli FUN Health Blasts™ reduces the acidity in your body, your health and how you feel improves dramatically. Yoli is coming out with alkalite capsules as well so you can use them in the foods that you love, but that are harmful to your stomach such as coffee, citrus, and spicy foods.

Not only is the product something that everyone needs, the company and the business opportunity are first class. The company is founded by six highly successful network marketing/business professionals and Yoli is the company build by distributors, for distributors.

There are nine (9) different ways you get paid with the Yoli business opportunity. There is Retail commission, a Fast Start Bonus, a Break Even Bonus so your product is free, the Binary Team commission, the Unilevel Executive Matching Bonus, the Global Leadership Bonus Pool, the Elite Leadership Bonus Pool, there are Multiple Team Business Centers, and with the Travel incentives including the Yoli Cruise on the Oasis of the Seas.

You only need two people to get paid and then when you help those two people get two people and they do the same, your income goes through the roof. This opportunity is exploding on a daily basis because it is the best of both worlds. The product is for everyone, and the business opportunity is so simple, and lucrative, that anyone can make money fast and easy.

To find out more about Yoli, contact me and go to http://www.luvworkingfromhome.com.

To Your Health and Financial Success,

Wendy Lynch
(858) 391-0331
http://www.luvworkingfromhome.com
http://www.wendylynch.net

Jobs for Veterans at Arizona Corporation Commission

Arizona Government Agency Reaches Out to Hire Veterans

Arizona Corporation Commission Joins HireVeterans.com

by Gordon Gates

Article 15 of the Arizona Constitution establishes the Arizona Corporation Commission. Only 7 states have constitutionally formed Commissions. Arizona is one of only 13 states with elected Commissioners. In the 37 other states, Commissioners are appointed by either the governor or the legislature.

In most states, the Commission is known as the Public Service Commission or the Public Utility Commission. Arizona's Commission, however, has responsibilities that go beyond traditional public utilities regulation. These additional roles include facilitating the incorporation of businesses and organizations, securities regulation and railroad/pipeline safety. In kind, the Commission is reaching out to U.S. Veterans to fill internal positions to help manage and administer the agency.

In fact, they have joined HireVeterans.com, a leading job board for U.S. Veterans on the internet. This is part of their overall strategy to fill jobs with returning U.S. Veterans.

The State of Arizona offers even more benefits. Employees enjoy special competitive rates on Auto and Home Insurance from Travelers and Liberty Mutual. Computers from Dell and Gateway. Plus discounts of up to 50% on local and national products and services with our State Employee Discount Program.

Employee Discount Program
Group Auto and Home Insurance
Computer Purchase Program

Organization

In November 2000, the voters of Arizona approved a measure, placed on the ballot by the State Legislature, which expanded the size of the Commission from three to five Commissioners. The measure also changed the term of office from one six-year term to a four-year term with the possibility of reelection to one additional (consecutive) four-year term. The initial terms of the two new seats are for two years. In the case of a vacancy, the Governor appoints a Commissioner to serve until the next general election. The Commissioners choose one member from among themselves to serve as Chairman.

The Commissioners have the ultimate responsibility for final decisions on granting or denying rate adjustments, enforcing safety and public service requirements, and approving securities matters.

Executive Director

The Director of the Commission Staff is the Executive Director. The Executive Director serves at the pleasure of the Commissioners, and is responsible to the Commissioners for the day to day operations of all Divisions. Section 40-105, Arizona Revised Statutes, outlines the powers and duties of the Executive Director's position.

Divisions

The Commission staff is organized into six Divisions. Each Division is headed by a Director who reports to the Executive Director.

Administration

The Administration Division plans, coordinates and directs the administrative and fiscal activities necessary to support the Commissioners and all Divisions of the Commission. The Division also provides information to the general public and media on all Commission activities.

Hearings

The Hearings Division exercises the Commission's authority to hold public hearings on matters involving the regulation of public service corporations, the sale of securities and the registration of non-municipal corporations. The Hearings Division is also responsible for the Commission's Docket Control Section.

Utilities

The Arizona Corporation Commission has jurisdiction over the quality of service and rates charged by public service utilities. By state law, public service utilities are regulated monopolies given the opportunity to earn a fair and reasonable return on their investments. What is fair and reasonable in any particular case has been and always will be open to debate in rate hearings before the Commission. Generally, the Commission tries to balance the customers' interest in affordable and reliable utility service with the utility's interest in earning a fair profit.

The Utilities Division makes specific recommendations to the Commissioners to assist them in reaching decisions regarding public utility rates, utility finance and quality of service. The Division is responsible for researching and developing utility issues, providing information and evidence in Commission proceedings dealing with utility applications, and monitoring the quality of utility service, and the rates approved by the Commissioners. Additionally, Division staff inspects gas pipelines for safety, operates a railroad safety program and maintains the official documents of proceedings before the

Commission

All rate changes require approval of the Commission in an Open Meeting. Staff preparation for a major rate hearing begins at the time of utility's initial filing, and takes approximately four to six months before the hearing takes place. Work efforts between the time of filing and hearing include a review of past Commission actions, a review of documents on file with the Commission, an audit of the books and records of the utility, discussions with utility personnel and other interested parties, formulation of the staff recommendation, an analysis of the impacts of the recommendation, and preparation of written testimony and schedules.

Securities

The Securities Division strives to ensure the integrity of the securities marketplace through investigative actions as well as the registration and/or oversight of securities, securities dealers and brokers, investment advisers and their representatives; to enhance legitimate capital formation; and to minimize the burden and expense of regulatory compliance by legitimate business.

The Division reviews prospective offerings of securities to ascertain that full and fair disclosure is made to potential securities investors and that the terms of offerings are not inherently fraudulent.

Certain securities dealers, salespersons, investment advisers, and investment adviser representatives are required to register with the Division. The Division reviews these applications and monitors the conduct of investment advisers, dealers and salespersons; investigates possible violations; and when the evidence warrants, initiates administrative or civil actions, or refers cases for criminal prosecution.

Corporations

The Corporations Division approves for filing all articles of incorporation for Arizona businesses; all articles of organization for limited liability companies; grants authority to foreign corporations to transact business in this state; propounds interrogatories when necessary to determine a company's lawful purpose; and revokes the corporate charters of those corporations which choose to not comply with Arizona law. The Division collects from every corporation an annual report which reflects its current status, business, and financial condition; maintains this information in a format conducive to public access; responds to public questions concerning Arizona businesses and corporation law; and responds to the needs of the business sector by disseminating whatever information is mission-critical to them in the most expedient and cost-effective manner possible.

Any significant changes to Articles of Incorporation or Articles of Organization for Limited Liability Companies in the form of amendments, mergers, consolidations, dissolutions or withdrawals are also filed with the Division. All filings are public record and available for inspection.

Legal

The Legal Division provides legal assistance, advice and representation to the Commissioners and each Division of the Corporation Commission except the Securities Division. Matters handled by the Legal Division fall into five general categories: Commission dockets, Federal regulatory dockets, litigation, other administrative matters and special projects.

Most of the Division's resources are devoted to Commission hearings. Major rate cases, such as those involving firms like the Arizona Public Service Company and Qwest, where tens of millions of dollars in potential rate increases are at stake, take several months to prepare and require close coordination with the Commissioners, staff and professional consultants.

Information Technology

The mission of the Information Technology (IT) Division is to provide accurate, efficient and timely technology design, development, implementation, communications and maintenance support services to the agency and its respective divisions in support of their missions and objectives.

The State of Arizona is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, the State will make reasonable accommodation(s) during the employment process.

Chairman Mike Gleason

Mike Gleason was born in Iowa, where he lived on a farm before joining the United States Navy during World War II. After his discharge from the Navy in 1947, he enrolled at Iowa State College, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in forestry in 1950. In 1951, he received a Masters Degree in range management from Texas A&M, and two years later, Gleason was awarded a PhD in plant physiology from Iowa State.

Gleason's private-sector experience in applied agricultural sciences spans nearly 40 years of employment with the Rockefeller Foundation, Pacific Oilseeds, Monsanto and Cargill, Inc. During this period, his duties required that he reside in Mexico, and later, France. Other responsibilities took Gleason on frequent travels throughout the world, including Peru, Kenya, Bangladesh, Senegal, Zaire, the Ivory Coast, Nigeria and Pakistan.

Employee Benefits and Work/Life Options

The state of Arizona offers a variety of careers and benefits for state employees. If you want challenging work, friendly co-workers, flexible work options, and if health benefits and retirement programs are important to you, consider your options at the state of Arizona.

We are committed to offering a work environment that helps state employees achieve greater success at work and at home. Employees may be able to use the following options to help manage responsibilities at home and at work.

- Flexibility
- Health and Well-Being
- Time off
- Caring for Dependents
- Financial Support
- Career
- Retirement - Organization Support
- Community Involvement

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Official Web Sites

Apply to Jobs for Arizona Corporate Commission on HireVeterans.com
http://www.hireveterans.com/view.php?company_id=338

Human Resources Department - Arizona Government
http://www.hr.state.az.us

Employment Site for Arizona Corporate Commission
https://secure.azstatejobs.gov/pljb/azgovjobs/mainjb/applicant/index.jsp

Arizona Corporate Commission Site
http://www.azcc.gov
-------------------------------------------------

Arizona Corporation Commission
Commissioners Wing
1200 W. Washington - 2nd Floor
Phoenix, Arizona 85007
Phone: 602.542.3682

Motorcycle Safety Awareness

3 Quick, Easy and Practical Steps to take to be safe on your motorcycle this summer!

With over 4 million motorcycles registered in the US, there are also many of accidents each year. Many of the often tragic accidents are very avoidable. Here are a few simple tips to keep you, your fellow Harley Davidson riders and your passenger safe.

1. Make sure you are wearing proper gear. Many people choose to skip their helmets and other basic safety gear. This can be a fatal mistake. Even a stylish leather jacket can be a valuable piece of safety gear. Naturally a good helmet is essential – both for you and your passenger.

2. Confirm all your lights are working and you have other reflective striping on your bike. Cars have a harder time seeing bikes and you want to take every advantage you can to ensure they can catch a glimpse, especially during the night.

3. Drive passively - although fun to zip in and out of traffic. And especially when in a hurry it's easy to forget the basics and assume people see you. Please don't. It's better to arrive a few minutes late and yield your right away to a car or truck – even though I know it's really frustrating. Give them the benefit of the doubt and don't assume that they are out to cut you off. Remember - you're the one on the Harley Davidson motorcycle enjoying life properly. They are cooped up in a vehicle and it's no wonder they are stressed out.

If you are riding with someone make sure you express your desire for a safe ride. A quick reminder to check blind spots and drive cautiously will go a long way. Remember that cars that have harder time seeing you. Although you may feel the engine is loud enough that everyone should see you, or that he paint job is so flashy that it’s as good as a flashing red warning light, the fact is that passenger vehicles simply have a hard time seeing motorcycles. Drivers are not as aware as they should be, even if they aren’t on their cell phones or putting on makeup. It is still a challenge. Encourage your driver to be extra alert.

You can even be aware of fellow motorcyclists. They may not see oncoming danger that you can spot. You may see a car driving aggressively that others may not. Be aware, look for opportunities to drive passively and be an example to others. Don’t forget to consider road conditions. On wet or icy roads you must drive even more passively.

Reducing Cumulative Trauma Disorders: Easy, Fast and Cost Effective

Cumulative Trauma Disorders (CTDs) are defined as disorders or diseases of the neuromusculoskeletal system due to chronic, or accumulative micro trauma. The neuromusculokeletal system is designed to tolerate work and physical stress. However, when the physical stress exceeds the body's tolerance level, trauma and injury results. Trauma or injury to the neuromusculoskeletal system can be a result of direct physical stress or force or it can be from the internal stresses formed within the neuromusculoskeletal tissues. Macro-trauma, is an immediate injury that occurs from a single, direct force of a high intensity, the damage or injury is obvious and immediate, resulting in pain and loss of function. An example of macro-trauma is a fracture sustained due to a fall or a knee ligament sprain during a football tackle. Micro-trauma is tiny, microscopic, damage that is painless and not always immediately detected. Micro trauma occurs daily, and usually heals overnight.





How do CTDs develop?

The neuromusculoskeletal tissues work as a system to perform certain functions, including: activities of daily living, recreational activities and work activities. The muscle fibers generate an internal force or contraction, resulting in internal pressures inside the muscle. The force is then transmitted along to the tendons and the skeletal system to move the bones and perform voluntary movement. When bones move, they rotate about an axis, or joint, when this occurs, the joint experiences compressive forces.



When the neuromusculoskeletal system experiences stresses and internal forces that overload the tissues, local tissue fatigue can occur. This local tissue fatigue can lead to micro tearing of the tissues, this is also called micro trauma. Micro trauma or wear and tear damage does occur on a daily basis. When micro-trauma continues over a period of time at a rate that exceeds the rate of the body's ability to repair itself, the damage or trauma accumulates. The accumulation of trauma, over time, results in pain and loss of function. Further damage and trauma can lead to the formation of scar tissue, changes in body or tissue chemistry and even degenerative changes that may also affect motion, strength and function.



What are the Clinical Signs and Symptoms?

When a worker over stresses his or her tissues, and the body is unable to repair itself, the worker begins to experience pain and loss of function as a result of injury to those tissues. Daily activities and even work tasks become difficult and tedious. The worker will complain of and demonstrates the clinical signs and symptoms of CTDs.



A clinical sign of an injury or disease is the objective clinical evidence of a disease or injury. Some signs of injury include: swelling, loss of motion or strength, loss of reflexes and numbness or tingling in nerve distributions. A clinical symptom is the subjective evidence of an injury or disease observed by the person. Symptoms can include: pain, numbness or tingling and a burning sensation. Common clinical signs and symptoms of CTDs include:



• Pain

• Swelling.

• Numbness and tingling

• Burning sensation.

• Weakness

• Nocturnal pain (pain at night)



These symptoms are the body's warning signals that there is too much damage followed by too little repair time.



Common CTDs in the workplace

Due to the nature of work and the relationship between inadequate recovery time and the development of CTD, some injuries or CTDs are observed more frequently in the workplace than others. The most common CTDs are defined and described below in terms of the area of the body that is most likely affected, the mechanism of the injury, which describes how the injury is initiated, and common causes that can lead to the development of these injuries.



1. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS)

Mechanism of Injury

According to the National Institute of Occupational safety and Health, carpal tunnel syndrome is the most commonly reported musculoskeletal disorder in the workplace. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) results from the compression and inflammation of the medial nerve as it passes through the carpal tunnel of the wrist. The carpal tunnel is an anatomical space formed by the eight wrist bones and the transverse carpal ligament. The nine finger flexion tendons, median artery and nerve all pass through the carpal tunnel. When the structures with in the carpal tunnel become compressed, they swell, become inflamed, causing pain and numbness and tingling in the ulnar nerve distribution of the hand.







Common Causes

Common causal or risk factors for the development of CTS include:

• Highly repetitive hand or wrist motions.

• Direct pressure on the wrist.

• Frequent or prolonged exposure to vibration.

• Frequent or prolonged exposure to cold temperatures.

• Prolonged, extreme or forced positions of the wrist.



2. Tendonitis

Mechanism of Injury

Tendonitis is defined as the inflammation of the tendon. Tendons attach muscles to bones to direct forces and allow voluntary movement. The tendon becomes irritated or inflamed when forces overstress the tendon.



Common Causes

Common causal or risk factors that can result in an overstressed tendon include:

• Overstressing tendons

• Friction forces that are developed as the tendons rub against bones or ligaments.

• Repetitive motions.

• Awkward positions.

• Forceful movements.



3. Tenosynovitis

Mechanism of Injury

Tenosynovitis is defined as the local inflammation of the tendon sheath. The synovial sheath covers the tendon. This sheath acts to protect and allow the tendon movement, and sliding, thus minimizing frictional forces. When excessive forces are placed on the tendon, the sheath becomes inflamed and swollen. DeQuervain's is an example of a common tenosynovitis that occurs at the thumb.



Common Causes

Common causal or risk factors that can result in an inflamed tendon sheath include:

• Overstressing tendons.

• Friction forces that are developed as the tendons rub against bones or ligaments.

• Repetitive motions.

• Awkward positions.

• Forceful movements.

• Direct pressure or contact stress.

• Contusions.



4. Epicondylitis

Mechanism of Injury

Lateral epicondylitis, also known as "tennis elbow" is the inflammation of the tendons of the forearm extensor group at the origin point on the elbow. Medial epicondylitis, also known as "golfer's elbow", is the inflammation of the tendons of the forearm flexor group at the origin point on the elbow.



Common Causes

Common causal or risk factors that can result in an inflamed tendon include:

• Overstressing tendons.

• Friction forces that are developed as the tendons rub against bones or ligaments.

• Repetitive motions.

• Awkward positions.

• Forceful movements.

• Direct pressure or contact stress.

• Caused by rotation against resistance of the forearm.

• Rapid extension of the wrist when the forearm is pronated (palm down.)





5. Bursitis

Mechanism of Injury

A bursa is a fluid filled sac between a tendon and a bone, it acts to reduce contact friction. Bursitis is the inflammation of a bursa sac.

Common Causes

Common causal or risk factors that can result in an inflamed bursa include:

• Friction forces that are developed as the tendons rub against bones or ligaments.

• Repetitive motions.

• Awkward positions.

• Forceful movements.



6. Muscle Strain

Mechanism of Injury

A muscular strain is an injury due to the overstretching of muscle fibers, beyond their limit, as a result of forceful tension, effort or overuse. Actual deformation or tearing of the fibers can result. There are three types of strains:

TYPES OF STRAINS

Degree:

Signs:

Mild (GRADE I) Slightly pulled muscle without tearing of muscle or tendon fibers. There is no loss of strength.

Moderate (GRADE II) Tearing of fibers in a muscle, tendon or at the attachment to bone. Strength is diminished.

Severe (GRADE III) Complete rupture of the muscle-tendon-bone attachment with separation of fibers.





























Common Causes

Common causal or risk factors that can result in a muscle strain include:

• Overstressing tendons and muscle fibers.

• Repetitive motions.

• Awkward positions.

• Forceful movements.

• Direct pressure or contact stress.

• Excessive muscular contractions.

• Twisting forces.

• Overuse.



7. Ligamentous Sprain

Mechanism of Injury

A ligamentous sprain is an injury due to the overstretching or tearing of ligaments, beyond their limit, as a result of forceful tension, effort or overuse. Actual deformation or tearing of the fibers can result. There are 3 types of sprains:



TYPES OF SPRAINS

Degree:

Signs:

Mild (GRADE I) Tearing of minimal ligament fiber, there is no loss of function.

Moderate (GRADE II) Tearing of a portion of the ligament. Strength and function is diminished.

Severe (GRADE III) Complete rupture of the ligament or complete separation of the ligament from the bone.







Common Causes

Common causal or risk factors that can result in a ligamentous sprain include:

• Overstressing ligamentous fibers.

• Repetitive motions.

• Awkward positions.

• Forceful movements.

• Direct pressure or contact stress.

• Twisting forces.

• Overuse.



Summary:

To keep you patients active and working, teach them ways to protect their joints, avoid ergonomic risk factors, and allow sufficient rest on off hours and take notice if they experience an increase in any of the CTD signs and symptoms!

Crib Safety Recommendations

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome is a terrible thing to contemplate, however there are things parents can do do reduce their child's risk of accidental suffocation. Here are some of the suggested precautions for crib-safety.

If using a blanket, it is best to place your infant with his or her feet nearly touching one end of the crib, then tuck the blanket in at the foot and the sides allowing it to cover no farther than your baby's chest. Using a sleeper instead of a blanket may further reduce any risk of danger. Your child should sleep on his or her back in a crib with a firm, tightly fitting mattress. This is to prevent your child from becoming trapped between the sides of the crib and the mattress. Do not put pillows, comforters, quilts, bumper pads or stuffed toys in the crib with your child. Only use fitted sheets that are made for cribs and fit the mattress properly.

Be sure there are no loose or poorly installed brackets, screws or other hardware on the crib or mattress support. The corner posts should not be taller than 1/16th of an inch high to prevent the infant's clothing from getting caught and there should not be any cutouts on the headboard or footboard where your child's head might become trapped. The slats of the crib should be no more than 2 1/4 inches apart so that the baby cannot squeeze through. Never use a crib with missing or damaged slats.

If you plan to use a crib with mesh sides, don't use anything with mesh larger than 1/4 inch because the buttons from your infant's clothing could get caught. If the crib or playpen was manufactured using staples, just be sure none of them are missing, loose or sticking out. Check the tops and bottoms on all sides to be certain the mesh is securely attached and make sure there are no rips or holes in the rail cover along the top especially. Always check for damaged mesh and do not use the crib or playpen if there are holes or loose threads.

By taking the above precautions you can reduce the chance of your child having an accident, and that will help just about any parent sleep a little better at night.

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Human Resources Careers - Top 10 Careers in Human Resources

What kind of career are you interested in? Today you have lots of options to choose from. It is very important to take your decision very carefully. If you choose a wrong career then you might have to suffer throughout your life.

Have you ever considered the option of choosing the human resource careers? These jobs have become very popular these days. Lots of people are trying for these jobs. There are certain qualities which are essential for this career.

You must have the quality of communicating with people at various levels. You might either have to communicate with the clients or with the people who will get recruited. You must always begin with the entry level human resource jobs and then move into the bigger companies.

In the beginning you will be offered the junior most position in this job. But as you learn your work you will get better opportunities. You must always remember that experience is very much important.

Other than getting a human resource degree you should also work hard to gain experience in this field. Human resource careers are one of the most fulfilling careers these days. You are appointed by a particular company to look after the recruitments.

This is the reason why you should have the capability to understand the human nature and behavior before you recruit them. You must always remember that a wrong recruitment can be very much harmful for any company.

This is the reason why the human resource employees must have a good sense of recruitment. If you want to get into the human resource careers then you must also make sure that you have an edge over the other applicants.

You might also have some interest in the human resource salary. You will be happy to learn that the pay scale is quite high for these kinds of jobs. There are some top careers waiting for you in this field.

1. First of all you can join the government jobs which are both safe and secure and offers good human resource salary.

2. You can also try for the private companies which offer different designations for this job and you can make proper advancements in your career.

3. There are lots of industries which can offer the human resource careers. Software companies can offer these jobs which are quite lucrative.

4. You can also try to make your career in the employment services. You can get a job either on a permanent or even a temporary basis.

5. Office administration services can also offer you a good career in human resource. You just need to select the right industry for yourself.

6. You can even join the facilities support services where you will have to recruit people for the company.

7. Health care services also require human resource people to handle recruitment for them.

8. Other than this, you can also look forward to the financial industry.

9. You can even join the human resource agencies which offer attractive jobs.

10. There are lots of other industries offering these jobs.

You can find additional info at the following links:

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Nail Gun Safety

Worried about making sure you operate your nail gun safely? Nail gun mistakes cause accidents every day, so it is extremely important to understand exactly what you need to do in order to make sure that you don't injure yourself or someone else while use your gun. Read on for some simple steps you can take to make sure that you are operating your nail gun safely.

Read The Manual

One of the simplest and most effective steps you can take to make sure you are using your nail gun safely is simply reading the manual. Having a complete understanding of how your gun is loaded and unloaded and exactly how it works is an important step in making sure you can use it safely.

Know How Your Nail Gun Fires

There are two different methods that common nail guns use to fire. The "sequential" method requires the trigger to be pulled and then the nail gun's nose to be depressed in order for the gun to fire once. Every time you want to fire this type of gun, you need to pull the trigger again. The "contact" method allows you to hold down the trigger for an extended period of time and fire a nail every time you depress the nose. While this method allows you to move faster when nailing a flat surface, there is the potential to set off the gun by simply bumping the nose into a limb or person while you have the trigger held down. Understanding exactly how your specific nail gun fires is essential to knowing when it may fire unintentionally.

Wear Protective Gear

When you use a nail gun, you should always use safety goggles with protective side shields. Every time a nail gun fires into wood, there is a potential for that wood to throw splinters and chunks of wood into your eyes or face. Wearing the right protective gear will make sure that you are protected when this happens. Wood splinters frequently, so never skip the protective gear when using a nail gun.

Check Before You Nail

One hazard of using a nail gun is accidentally firing into something hard enough to cause the nail to ricochet. Make sure that any surface you are attempting to nail is free of loose material. The wood should also be clear of any staples or old nails before you fire. Check the area around the wood for any loose electrical wires or other potential hazards to make sure that you don't accidentally drive a nail into something dangerous.

Stay Aware Of People Around You

According to the OSHA guidelines for nail gun use, one of the most common injuries that happen with nail guns is people firing straight through the surface they are trying to nail and hitting someone on the other side. Always make sure there is no one in the line of fire of your nail gun, and never point it at another person for any reason. Never have another person hold something you want to nail in front of them, and always make sure that the area in front of the nail gun is clear of limbs and people.