Portable Heater Safety in the Field

September 29, 2022 Julia Aubry Heating Comments Off

Portable, temporary heaters are used often on construction sites for various heating tasks, including thawing the ground, general drying purposes, providing warmth to workers, and concrete curing. These heaters serve these valuables purpose particularly in very cold winter temperatures. However, safety is always an important consideration with temporary heaters. Improper installation or use can lead to fires that cause injury or even death. At On Site Companies, we offer an array of portable heaters for construction projects.

Fires that result from temporary heating often occurs due to lack of proper clearance provided during installation. Direct-fired heaters which are fueled by natural gas, propane, or diesel are self-contained and unvented. They are used often on project sites and produce very intense heat that demands a certain amount of clearance for safety purposes – often about eight feet.

Safety Considerations for Portable Heaters in the Field

A good first step to safety with heaters in the field, as mentioned above, is providing sufficient clearance. However, clearance is not the only factor to keep in mind. Other important guidelines for portable heater safety include:

Temporary, portable heaters must be installed and operated per manufacturers’ instructions and used only for their intended purpose.
Only heaters approved or listed by a recognized testing agency such as UL/ULC or CSA should be used.
Safe installation and use should be based on a written operating procedure based on the instructions given by the manufacturer.
Adhere to all clearance, fuel type, and ventilation specifications indicated on the heater’s data plate.
Ensure the heaters you intend to use are covered by your insurance policy

If there are high concerns about fire safety and ventilation, you may consider using indirect-fired heaters instead which require the use of electricity to operate. They may not provide the efficiency of direct-fired heaters, but can provide a greater comfort level regarding ventilation and fire safety.

Fire Extinguishers for Safety

Because of the intense heat produced by these heaters, it is always necessary to have tools on hand to keep any fire under control. With the fire risk posed by these heaters, it is important to have multi-purpose fire extinguishers nearby on the construction site that can put out such fires. The rating on these extinguishers at a minimum should be 3A 10BC.

To learn about the various portable heating solutions we offer at On Site Companies, call us today at 800.210.8407 or leave us an email at sales@onsiteco.com.

What Are the Most Efficient Portable Heaters?

September 26, 2022 Julia Aubry Heating Comments Off

It is vital to ensure your construction project is properly equipped to move forward through the cold winter months. This will prevent unnecessary delays and ensure productivity. One important aspect of this involves the use of efficient portable heaters onsite. These heaters are necessary to thaw the ground and cure concrete in cold winter conditions. They can also be used for other purposes in which warmth is needed, for both equipment and personnel. At On Site Companies, we are your source for portable ground heaters that provide effective thawing and warmth for various types of construction project applications.

Below we cover the most efficient type of portable heater and others which are less efficient.

Direct Fired Heater – The Most Efficient Option

Direct fired heaters operate in similar fashion as a gas stove or grill. The fuel used by these heaters is burned to produce the heat. The air is heated as it is forced directly through the flame. Because the fuel is burned for the purpose of heating the air with these heaters, they provide a highly efficient method of heating. The energy efficiency of these heaters makes them powerful pieces of equipment, able to produce BTU levels much higher than indirect-fired heaters of comparable size.

Electric Heaters

If electrical outlets are accessible at the construction site, electric heaters are an option to consider. They can be ideal for large, open areas. They may not be the most flexible option to use when outlets are not available in certain areas of a construction site. But they are able to produce about 6000 watts of energy which equates to more than 20,000 BTUs.

Convection Heaters

Many portable heaters use the convection form of heating which warms up the air throughout a space. They are flexible and able to increase the air temperature in a room about two to three times faster than it takes for an equivalent radiant heater to do the same thing.

Indirect Fired Heaters

Among the least efficient portable heaters, indirect heaters do have the advantage of warming the air and discharging it clean and without carbon dioxide. This makes them safe to use in smaller spaces.

For information about the various types of portable heaters we offer for construction sites, call us today at 800.210.8407 or drop us an email at sales@onsiteco.com.

How Often Should I Get My Septic Tank Pumped?

September 22, 2022 Julia Aubry Septic Comments Off

Septic systems manage and dispose of household drain waste in a natural, environmentally-friendly, and safe way that differs from how a sewer system handles waste. It is crucial to properly maintain and care for septic systems to ensure their proper function over the course of several years. Generally speaking, a septic tank should be pumped every 2 to 5 years on average. The specific frequency of pumping required depends on various factors. At On Site Companies, we have your septic tank pumping needs covered.

Size of Septic Tank and Household

The size of the septic tank is one important factor in determining how often it should be pumped. Septic tanks are often in the range of 1,000 to 2,000 gallons in size. For example, if you have a 1,000 gallon septic tank with 4 members in the household, the tank should be pumped about once every 2.6 years. For a 2,000 gallon tank and the same household of 4, the tank may only need to be pumped once every 5 years.

Soaps and Chemicals Used Regularly

The types of cleaners, soaps, and chemical you use in your home and the frequency and amount of their use can also influence how often septic pumping should be done. The use of too many harsh chemicals over time will kill the bacteria in your septic tank, preventing the bacteria from doing its job and preventing build-up in the tank.

The biggest factors determining the frequency of septic tank pumping are the level of sludge and scum which have accumulated in the tank. When scum has accumulated close to 6 inches thick at the top of the tank or when the sludge level at the bottom of the tank reaches 1 foot, it is time to pump the tank.

Septic tank maintenance is not expensive compared to the cost of repair and replacement that may occur if proper tank maintenance is not performed when needed. With the general knowledge that most septic tanks require pumping about every 2 to 5 years, consult with a septic tank pumping professional to ensure you obtain the proper cleaning and pumping your tank needs.

For information about our septic tank pumping services, call us today at 800.210.8407 or contact us by email at sales@onsiteco.com.

Septic Inspection Guide

September 19, 2022 Julia Aubry Septic Comments Off

A septic tank functions as part of a system, and is susceptible to failure. Prior to purchasing a home, the homebuyers should definitely have the septic tank inspected as part of a general property inspection. Below we cover some aspects of septic inspections, including the reasons for an inspection, the cost of an inspection, and the inspection process. At On Site Companies, we provide thorough septic tank pumping services for homeowners and businesses.

The Reasons for a Septic Tank Inspection

Septic tanks require inspection for the following reasons:

An inspection determines the capacity of the tank (if unknown) and if it complies with sewer requirements
An inspection identifies any problems with the tank, helping to avoid more expensive repairs or replacements, if the issues are left to fester.
An inspection identifies any current health risks associated with the tank, indicated by slow drainage, wet areas of the lawn, or bad odor around toilets.

Septic Tank Inspection Cost

The cost of a septic tank inspection will vary based on the level of the inspection, house location, and pumping rate in the region. The depth of the tank also affects the cost. Other services such as removal of the tank lid may add to the cost. The homebuyer usually pays for the septic tank inspection.

Septic Tank Inspection Process

A septic tank inspection may involve a visual inspection and/or a comprehensive inspection.

Visual Inspection

A professional visual inspection will include a house inspection in which the inspector asks general questions about the septic system’s maintenance. The inspector may record how often the tank has been pumped and the age of the home. The inspector will also test home appliances, run the water, and flush the toilets in the home. He or she will also perform a drainage test and check pressure levels. The inspector will also inspect the drainfield visually, noting if any stagnant water is present.

Comprehensive Inspection

With a full or comprehensive inspection, the inspector will focus on the entire septic system, including the septic tank. The inspection will include performing a drainage test, removing the cover of the tank and checking water levels. Using a water level analysis, the inspector will grade the drainage effectiveness of the tank.

The professional will perform a septic tank test to check the backflow from the tank’s absorption area. If there is blockage, there may be an issue with the drain field. The inspector will also perform a water flow test by running the water from the tap to see if it travels to the tank. This may involve placing a dye in the water to see how much of the dyed water reaches the tank. A greater water flow to the tank indicates an effective flowing system.

To learn about the septic tank pumping services we offer at On Site Companies, call us today at 800.210.8407 or drop us a message by email at sales@onsiteco.com.

The Safety Impacts of Portable Restrooms

September 16, 2022 Julia Aubry Sanitation Comments Off

Portable restrooms provide an array of benefits to the user. One the major benefits is serving as a safe, private space to relieve oneself instead of having to search for a bathroom off premises or using nearby woods or bushes for that purpose. At On Site Companies, we offer various types of portable restroom options that are safe and reliable for the public.

Let’s look at the safety impacts of portable restrooms in terms of how they affect humans and the environment.

Human Safety

Properly maintained portable restrooms and toilets prevents disease from spreading from person to person. These portable bathrooms are often treated with products that mitigate foul smells and the growth of parasites from human waste.

Portable restrooms used at events where food is served which also include handwashing with soap of sanitizer helps reduce the spread of illness and disease. If long-term portable restrooms are used, then service personnel may also clean and disinfect the units from time to time, further preventing the spread of bacteria and disease among individuals.

Environmental Safety

Human waste can travel through the environment and be a source of toxicity to wildlife. It can travel on the wings of insects, the hooves and paws of animals, and by human shoes. Clean portable restrooms prevent this environmental issue form occurring in parks, campgrounds, construction project sites, outdoor wedding venues, and other outdoor functions and gatherings.

If human feces are not disposed of properly they have the potential to contaminate bodies of water in close proximity. Some pathogens in this waste flourish in cold water and have the potential to spread diseases. Whether portable restrooms are spread out in various locations on a property or place in a centralized location, it is vital that human waste they contain is properly eliminated. Both portable restrooms and restroom trailers with toilets that flush and running water help ensure this is done.

At On Site Companies, we offer numerous options in portable restrooms and luxury restroom trailers to help keep both people and the environment protected from disease.

For more information about the portable restroom solutions we offer, call us today at 800.210.8407 or send an email to sales@onsiteco.com.

What are Portable Restroom Trailers?

September 6, 2022 Julia Aubry Sanitation Comments Off

If you are hosting any type of outdoor event, it is imperative that you ensure your guests are well taken care of, including when it comes to their most personal needs that are usually addressed in a restroom. This can be done by renting portable restroom trailers. These trailers offer more than the typical standalone bathroom stall. They come with an array of amenities that simulate what you may find inside a residential home or commercial building. At On Site Companies, we offer an array of portable restroom trailers for the comfort, quality, and convenience of your guests or workers.

You can have portable restroom trailers dropped off and positioned at the site of your gathering or event before the day they are needed, ensuring that everyone who needs to can use the bathroom and take care of business.

Features of Portable Restroom Trailers

Modern portable restroom trailers offer a variety of important amenities and features for the user, including running sinks, urinals, toilets, and climate-controlled environments, to mention a few. Some come with multiple stalls and urinals per unit. The sinks are located near mirrors and soap dispensers. They have lighting and some have wheelchair access. They are also stocked with supplies.

Clean and Safe Portable Restroom Trailers

Your portable restroom trailer rentals will arrive clean and disinfected with hospital-grade supplies. Once your
event is over, they will be picked up and then cleaned and disinfected again. You don’t have to clean the units yourself.Renting portable restroom trailers ensures that every person onsite has access to a clean bathroom. They can feel confident that these portable bathrooms are safe for themselves and their children. The toilets will work and the water will run. There will be soap to wash their hands in addition to paper towels to dry their hands.

These portable bathroom trailers also provide ample space in which to move around. They are easy to access and can often accommodate multiple people at once.

Portable restroom trailers can also be used for long-term rentals as well. Common applications include commercial construction renovations, home remodels, and various industrial applications that leave workers without a restroom.

To learn about the various portable restroom trailers we offer at On Site Companies, give us a call today 800.210.8407or reach us by email at sales@onsiteco.com.

Common Myths About Portable Restrooms Debunked

September 2, 2022 Julia Aubry Community Outreach, Global Initiative, Sanitation Comments Off

Many ideas you may or may not have been told about portable restrooms are not necessarily factual. There are a number of misconceptions about these pieces of equipment that ought to be cleared up. At On Site Companies, we offer an array of portable restroom solutions designed for many types of outdoor settings and events so today we would like to address some of these ideas.

Myth #1: Portable Restrooms Will Look Bad at a Formal or Upscale Event

Portable luxury restroom trailers provide amenities that go beyond those of the typical, standard portable restroom. These may include air conditioning and heating, faux wood flooring, Formica marbled sinks or countertops, oak cabinets, and more. Some of them feature multiple stalls to handle multiple persons at a time.

Myth #2: Portable Restrooms are Unsanitary and Smelly

A big misconception is that all portable restrooms are unsanitary. While some mobile bathrooms of the past may have fallen into this category much of the time, our new portable restrooms, including luxury portable units, are designed with quality and user experience in mind including features such as: running water, sanitizers or soap dispensers, flushable toilets, easy-to-clean surfaces, and vents to control odors.

Myth #3: You Can’t Wash Your Hands in a Portable Restroom

Another misconception is that portable bathrooms lack any accessory for washing the hands. However, that is largely false. All standard units include hand sanitizers at a minimum. Other luxury models feature running water sinks. In other cases, portable hand washing units are placed outside of bathrooms that can be used.

Myth #4: Portable Restrooms Are Only for Festivals and Construction Sites

Another myth is that portable restrooms are only applicable for large outdoor festivals or construction sites, not small events. However, they are actually ideal for personal use events such as weddings, graduation parties, and family reunions. In addition, some small, seasonal businesses rent portable restrooms for parks, farms, and golf courses.

Myth #5: Portable Restrooms are Bad for the Environment

Standard portable restrooms don’t require water after use. Running water toilets can waste up to a couple hundred gallons of water daily. Portable restrooms save tens of billions of water every year. This is significant since toilet flushing is the highest use of water in the United States.

For information about the portable restroom solutions we offer at On Site Companies, call us today at 800.210.8407 or email sales@onsiteco.com.

Key Environmental Benefits of Portable Restrooms

August 30, 2022 Julia Aubry Community Outreach, Global Initiative, Sanitation Comments Off

At One Site Companies, we provide only the most experienced knowledge and sources for portable sanitation systems. Portable restrooms offer several benefits on top of providing a safe, sanitized, and easy to use private environment for users.

In our mission, we would like to provide insight for you on how portable restrooms also have huge environmental benefits for users.

Conserving Water

Flushing is the largest daily use of water in the United States, including showering and hand washing. Portable restrooms conserve water since they don’t require flushing after every use. According to the PSAI 45 billion gallons of fresh water are saved annually by portable restroom use.

Protecting Landscaping and Waterways

Portable restrooms help preserve the surrounding landscaping by saving plant life from harm due to individual waste on bushes and trees. They also prevent human waste from reaching streams where it can poison certain bodies of water, harming local flora and wildlife. Portable restrooms keep human waste safely contained until it is disposed of for treatment, protecting the surrounding natural environment.

Reduced Insect Problems

Containing human waste in portable restrooms helps prevent the problem of insects swarming to the waste. If a person’s waste contains any parasites, they could end up in the soil when not properly contained in a portable restroom. This could potentially infect someone else who came into contact with the waste and cause damage to the environment.

Preserving Public Health

Various diseases spread through the transfer of fecal matter to the mouth. When someone does a bowel movement, but fails to wash their hands properly, and then touches objects such as utensils or food, the germs can spread and cause sickness. The same is true for urinating without washing the hands. Portable restrooms with hand sanitizer or soap dispensers and running water solve this problem. Otherwise, individuals at various outdoor events are forced to go to the bathroom in the bushes somewhere without an opportunity to sanitize themselves, including their hands.

Odor Control

The design of portable restrooms today includes better odor control than older generation porta potties. Here at On Site Companies, we use hospital-grade disinfectant to clean our units and take great measures to ensure a pleasant experience. This means that regardless of whether or not it is the type of mobile restroom that flushes, it will not spread an unappealing aroma to areas of your area, even if you have multiple portable restrooms set up throughout your venue.

To learn about the portable sanitation solutions we offer, give us a call today at 800.210.8407 or email us at sales@onsiteco.com.

Septic Services in Cloquet

May 3, 2022 Julia Aubry Septic Comments Off

On Site Companies has been a family-owned business for over 30 years and is eager to provide septic services in Cloquet. As proud members of the Cloquet Area Chamber of Commerce, Moose Lake Chamber of Commerce, and Duluth Chamber of Commerce, we understand the importance of serving the community. You can rely on us for all of our septic tank and holding tank pumping needs.

Residential Septic Pumping

If your home’s septic tank needs service, then look no further. We will make sure that your septic tank is professionally pumped and cleaned. Did you know that there are certain government regulations that your septic system must abide by? Don’t worry, we make sure that your system is compliant to prevent costly fines. We recommend signing up for our recurring scheduled pumping services to make sure that your septic system remains in good condition.

We offer residential septic tank pumping. Our team recommends that homes that are occupied year round to get pumped at least once every three years. Cabins and summer homes may be able to get pumped less frequently, but it’s always best to monitor the usage closely and be safe. Ultimately, the number of services depends on the amount of water you use, among a few other variables. Also, we offer residential holding tank pumping. Holding tanks must get serviced much more frequently. How often they get pumped and cleaned depends on the size, water usage, and a few other factors.

Regular septic maintenance is a proactive way to protect the integrity of your system. Getting your tanks professionally inspected, pumped, and cleaned regularly is a proactive approach to preventing potential costly repairs. Broken septic systems also can cause flooding and unpleasant odors if not dealt with properly.

Commercial Septic Pumping

We are proud to provide businesses with our commercial pumping services. We provide professional inspections that ensures that you are compliant with government regulations. By doing so, this prevents potential costly fines from your local officials. We expertly inspect, pump, and clean your system every time.

We provide both commercial holding tank and septic tank pumping. Our trucks are equipped with the Crust Buster. This is one of the most powerful tools in the industry that allows for maximum efficiency when pumping. This cuts down on the time we need to service your system significantly, especially in comparison to other trucks that don’t use the Crust Buster. We take pride in our craft and the results speak for themselves. Let us handle your tank, so you can get back to handling your business.

Preventative maintenance is the best way to have a healthy septic system. With this in mind, regular pumping, cleaning, and inspections can help prevent expensive repairs. It’s always in your best interest to be proactive, rather than reactive. Our staff of industry experts recommend reoccurring schedules for service depending on your business’s needs. This will make sure that you don’t neglect your septic system while your are busy running your business.

Contact On Site Companies for Septic Services in Cloquet!

On Site Companies takes pride in providing essential septic services to our Cromwell service area. Call us at 218.879.0121 to speak to an expert. We’ll schedule you for pumping today!

New OSHA Heat Hazards Regulations

April 25, 2022 Julia Aubry Air Conditioning, Construction, Planning Tools Comments Off

For the first time, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has launched a National Emphasis Program (NEP) to protect workers from injuries and illnesses caused by heat hazards. OSHA’s new NEP ramps up the inspection and enforcement of workplaces in industries deemed to be high risk for heat stress. Appendix A of the NEP Document outlines the list of 70 industries affected. Here is everything you need to new about the OSHA’s new EPA.

What Are the New OSHA Heat Hazards Regulations?

OSHA’s inspections prioritize sites with complaints of employer-related heat hazards. Additional inspections occur on days the National Weather Service issues a heat warning or advisory local to that area. Employers to inspect are randomly selected from the list of high-risk industries. On “heat priority days” when the heat index is 80°F or higher, OSHA field staff initiate compliance assistance to help employers keep workers safe on the job. Also, during these days, OSHA inspectors search for and address heat hazards during inspections of all workplaces, regardless of their industry.

The compliance safety and health officers (CSHOs) review records of heat-related employee incidents. They interview workers for symptoms that may indicate heat-related illnesses or injuries. Working conditions that could contribute to heat stress such as dealing with hot air or driving a hot vehicle are recorded. Workers’ proximity to furnaces and other hot equipment are noted. They also identify the use of heavy or bulky equipment, including personal protective equipment (PPE). CSHOs categorize the exertion of work depending on the duration and level of strenuous activity. They take both average and peak workloads into consideration.

Under the NEP, OSHA has not set any specific standards to comply with. This is because the stages of official rule-making can take multiple years. The NEP is an initiative to make progress while the new rules finalize in court. Although there are no specific guidelines to follow yet, they have outlined general ways to comply in their documentation. The NEP starts on April 8, 2022 and will continue until April 8, 2025 unless cancelled or extended.

How Do I Comply with the Standards of These Inspections?

Create a written plan for heat hazard prevention and response. Define how you plan to monitor the heat index of your site and its impact our your workers’ safety. Next, make sure to outline the precautions you are taking to prevent heat stress. Record all incidents, complaints, and concerns with heat illnesses or injuries. Then, document a clear procedure on how to respond to these cases and clearly note each occurrence.

According to Appendix B of the NEP, CSHOs will ensure that the air conditioning is adequate enough to provide a cool place to rest during weekdays. In Appendix D, as an example it is recommended to use air conditioning, proper ventilation, and cooling fans. However, it is also noted that you should tailor your efforts specifically to what you need at your site. Renting portable air conditioners, air filters, and fans/air movers is a great way to be safe and help prevent heat hazards. If you are in the Midwest, On Site Companies is a great resource for these types of climate control rentals.

Schedule rested breaks for hydration and provide access to unlimited cool water for your staff. Give access to shaded areas for employees that spend work time outdoors. Consider using earlier or later start times with rotating shifts to limit exposure to sun. Make sure to give proper PPE, including breathable clothing, as well as hats and sunglasses to protect from the sun.

Provide your staff with training and resources for heat hazard education. Train them on topics such as the symptoms of heat illness, heat stress prevention, the importance of hydration, first aid, and emergency response procedures. Also, consider using a “buddy” system for staff to check in with each other.

What Are My Resources for OSHA Heat Hazards Compliance?

The full NEP linked above contains all of the new policies in entirety. However, this NEP Fact Sheet summarizes the most important information into one page. For more in-depth rational and data behind the reasoning for these changes, OSHA references the CDC’s publication, Criteria for a Recommended Standard: Occupational Exposure to Heat and Hot Environments.

OSHA’s area offices are engaging with unions, employers in “high risk” industries, and other advocacy groups for assistance. Their On-Site Consultation Program is a free resource for small and medium-sized businesses. This is separate from and does not result in punishment from OSHA. Consultants work with employers to identify potential hazards and assist in developing plans for OSHA compliance. Employers can request this program by contacting their local consultant.

The Heat Illness Prevention Campaign educates employers and employees on the dangers of heat stress. On their website, OSHA has additional information on the dangers of heat exposure and how to prevent heat stress. Use the Health Safety App to calculate the heat index and view the risk level of your job site on your phone. The OSHA Technical Manual (OTM) is another great resource for training on health, safety, and construction hazards. Also, the National Heat Integrated Heat Health Information System (NHIHHIS) has several helpful tools and articles to assist in your heat hazard prevention plan.

Rent Portable Climate Control Equipment with On Site Companies!

On Site Companies takes pride in providing essential products to job sites. With branches located in Minnesota and Missouri, we are proud to serve the Midwest. Our rental products such as air conditioners, air filters, fans, and more help keep workers safe. Request a quote today or call us at 800.210.8407 to speak to an industry expert. We can help you find the perfect solution for your needs!

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