#not looking forward to the temperature monitoring system repair report

[clove-pinks]

I now have the type of job where I get a corporate credit card and a budget to spend, but there are only four categories in my expense reports:

Food (must be BUSINESS food).

Training (scrutinized, must have convincing reason why it's needed).

Office supplies (comes with a threatening warning that I CANNOT use this card for office supplies if I work for [different branch of the company]).

SUSPICIOUS MYSTERY CATEGORY covering all other expenses. Will be audited at least five times!!!

If you're wondering why your idiot boss can only give you the occasional pizza as a reward, well,

[tameblog]

Throughout the COVID-19 lockdown period of the pandemic, Chicago Public Schools (CPS), like many other districts, investigated and tested different solutions to help ensure building occupants felt comfortable enough that buildings were safe for occupancy. Initially, teams worked quickly to implement short-term strategies to address various concerns. That included partnering with third-party technical auditors to inspect ventilation equipment in all spaces, conducting air quality sampling within all schools, and establishing a greater emphasis on air quality control with facility field teams. Subsequently, CPS created standardized processes that are used today to proactively manage indoor air quality (IAQ) issues and keep CPS teams focused on figuring out the best solutions to continue operating effectively moving forward.   The first IAQ strategy implemented was creating an annual air quality sampling program to help the CPS environmental team identify potential IAQ issues. To do this, CPS partnered with three managing environmental contractors (MECs), each assigned to a region within the district. Annually, each MEC takes a sample of the air during occupancy in 25 percent of our rooms, does a 100-percent visual inspection of all rooms, and posts the results on the CPS website (www.cps.edu/AIRQuality).   If any sample readings are identified as above what would be acceptable, the MEC partners develop a scope of work for the CPS facilities teams to use to address the issues causing IAQ problems. The MEC partners then work with our facilities teams and any contractors we bring on board to rectify the problems, ensure that the repairs are handled properly, and not lead to any other environmental concerns within the building.   CPS's second strategy was to develop a quarterly preventative maintenance IAQ sampling check. This is where building engineers collect air quality data using handheld IAQ measuring devices. This portable air quality monitoring device measures PM2.5 and PM10 (both are types of particulate matter), CO2 concentrate, temperature, and humidity. Any readings that our onsite engineers capture as above acceptable levels are reported to the CPS environmental team, who then deploy the MEC to conduct site visits. They will investigate the situation further and develop a recommended scope of work to mitigate any issues found.   This strategy has proven to be a cost-effective way to capture air quality data more frequently. It is now a standard part of our preventative maintenance program.   The third strategy is currently in the pilot phase and is focused on using onsite IAQ sensor technology to collect real-time air quality data within our facilities. During the research phase, we reviewed possible device solutions for this pilot. Our teams looked at several different permanently mounted solutions that would meet multiple needs. We also sought help from IPVM, experts in physical security technology, which had a comparison study on the effectiveness of IAQ monitoring solutions.  We settled on a device based on the effectiveness of the sensors that we tested. These were compared against the IAQ testing tools our environmental contract partners use, as well as the technical requirements that we needed from an IT infrastructure perspective. Those requirements included:    It was understood from the beginning that CPS wanted a holistic technology solution that met CPS's technical requirements and provided the flexibility to integrate with multiple other technology devices that CPS was already managing. Most vendors selling the devices provided a SaaS (Software as a Service) dashboard. However, this was limited to hosting their own devices, restricting us from expanding this program to integrate our current suite of technology solutions. Based on our research and our need for flexibility, we ended up partnering with two vendors. One provided a product for combining BAS (Building Automation System) data and IAQ data dashboards. The second offered a platform for centralized aggregation of the IAQ views.  Today, the CPS IAQ remote monitoring pilot sensor solution is installed in 12 buildings, with 12 to 15 more slated for this capital year, depending on funding support from the budgeting team. This initiative represents a significant step forward in our commitment to ensuring the health and comfort of our building occupants. As the program has been rolling out the initial pilot sensors in these 12 buildings, facilities were chosen to represent a variety of design styles from our portfolio, including two administration facilities.   The technology and strategic set have provided our teams with the tools necessary to monitor and manage issues before complaints are provided proactively. Occupants in a few of the buildings have complained about the air quality over the years, and it was challenging to convince them that there were no risks or concerns — even with air sampling results from environmental consultants. Now that there is continuous data that can be shared with building occupants and leadership, it has proven to be a great tool to help create staff confidence in the current state of IAQ in these buildings.   As progress continues in this pilot program, there are considerations to add a few additional device manufacturers into the mix. When added to the BAS specifications, it will replace the traditional temperature/humidity/CO2 stats and allow for enhanced operating sequences. All-in-all, we are close to having a solid foundational systematic technology solution in place that will allow CPS to scale through the district as resources become available.   About the Authors/Program Owners  Rob Chistlieb — CPS Executive Director of Facilities Robert is the Executive Director of Facility Operations for Chicago Public Schools. As Executive Director, Rob oversees the district's facilities maintenance and environmental health and safety programs. Rob has been instrumental in creating the vision and leading his teams to develop and enhance IAQ and ecological programs. Under Rob’s leadership, Chicago Public Schools joined the Healthy Green Schools & Colleges program.  Richard Schleyer — CPS Director Richard is the Director of Environmental Health and Safety at Chicago Public Schools and oversees and manages all district environmental program standards and efforts. He and his team manage an extensive environmental health and safety program and have played a vital role in developing and managing the current IAQ programs.   Paul Valente — CPS Automation Architect Paul, the Automation Architect for Chicago Public Schools, oversees the district's management, upgrading, repair, and installation of all Building Automation Systems (BAS) and IoT systems. He plays a key role in coordinating specifications and consolidation efforts, focusing on integrating advanced technology to modernize the district’s controls and management systems.  Brian Martin — Deputy Program Director CPS PMO As Deputy Director of the Chicago Public Schools Project Management Office, Brian is vital in working with CPS teams to develop and manage the program governance and standards for Chicago Public Schools' facilities maintenance and capital renovation programs.  POSTED ON: 12/30/2024 Industry News & Trends Industry Training & Events Advice from the Field Insights & Updates Source link

[ramestoryworld]

Throughout the COVID-19 lockdown period of the pandemic, Chicago Public Schools (CPS), like many other districts, investigated and tested different solutions to help ensure building occupants felt comfortable enough that buildings were safe for occupancy. Initially, teams worked quickly to implement short-term strategies to address various concerns. That included partnering with third-party technical auditors to inspect ventilation equipment in all spaces, conducting air quality sampling within all schools, and establishing a greater emphasis on air quality control with facility field teams. Subsequently, CPS created standardized processes that are used today to proactively manage indoor air quality (IAQ) issues and keep CPS teams focused on figuring out the best solutions to continue operating effectively moving forward.   The first IAQ strategy implemented was creating an annual air quality sampling program to help the CPS environmental team identify potential IAQ issues. To do this, CPS partnered with three managing environmental contractors (MECs), each assigned to a region within the district. Annually, each MEC takes a sample of the air during occupancy in 25 percent of our rooms, does a 100-percent visual inspection of all rooms, and posts the results on the CPS website (www.cps.edu/AIRQuality).   If any sample readings are identified as above what would be acceptable, the MEC partners develop a scope of work for the CPS facilities teams to use to address the issues causing IAQ problems. The MEC partners then work with our facilities teams and any contractors we bring on board to rectify the problems, ensure that the repairs are handled properly, and not lead to any other environmental concerns within the building.   CPS's second strategy was to develop a quarterly preventative maintenance IAQ sampling check. This is where building engineers collect air quality data using handheld IAQ measuring devices. This portable air quality monitoring device measures PM2.5 and PM10 (both are types of particulate matter), CO2 concentrate, temperature, and humidity. Any readings that our onsite engineers capture as above acceptable levels are reported to the CPS environmental team, who then deploy the MEC to conduct site visits. They will investigate the situation further and develop a recommended scope of work to mitigate any issues found.   This strategy has proven to be a cost-effective way to capture air quality data more frequently. It is now a standard part of our preventative maintenance program.   The third strategy is currently in the pilot phase and is focused on using onsite IAQ sensor technology to collect real-time air quality data within our facilities. During the research phase, we reviewed possible device solutions for this pilot. Our teams looked at several different permanently mounted solutions that would meet multiple needs. We also sought help from IPVM, experts in physical security technology, which had a comparison study on the effectiveness of IAQ monitoring solutions.  We settled on a device based on the effectiveness of the sensors that we tested. These were compared against the IAQ testing tools our environmental contract partners use, as well as the technical requirements that we needed from an IT infrastructure perspective. Those requirements included:    It was understood from the beginning that CPS wanted a holistic technology solution that met CPS's technical requirements and provided the flexibility to integrate with multiple other technology devices that CPS was already managing. Most vendors selling the devices provided a SaaS (Software as a Service) dashboard. However, this was limited to hosting their own devices, restricting us from expanding this program to integrate our current suite of technology solutions. Based on our research and our need for flexibility, we ended up partnering with two vendors. One provided a product for combining BAS (Building Automation System) data and IAQ data dashboards. The second offered a platform for centralized aggregation of the IAQ views.  Today, the CPS IAQ remote monitoring pilot sensor solution is installed in 12 buildings, with 12 to 15 more slated for this capital year, depending on funding support from the budgeting team. This initiative represents a significant step forward in our commitment to ensuring the health and comfort of our building occupants. As the program has been rolling out the initial pilot sensors in these 12 buildings, facilities were chosen to represent a variety of design styles from our portfolio, including two administration facilities.   The technology and strategic set have provided our teams with the tools necessary to monitor and manage issues before complaints are provided proactively. Occupants in a few of the buildings have complained about the air quality over the years, and it was challenging to convince them that there were no risks or concerns — even with air sampling results from environmental consultants. Now that there is continuous data that can be shared with building occupants and leadership, it has proven to be a great tool to help create staff confidence in the current state of IAQ in these buildings.   As progress continues in this pilot program, there are considerations to add a few additional device manufacturers into the mix. When added to the BAS specifications, it will replace the traditional temperature/humidity/CO2 stats and allow for enhanced operating sequences. All-in-all, we are close to having a solid foundational systematic technology solution in place that will allow CPS to scale through the district as resources become available.   About the Authors/Program Owners  Rob Chistlieb — CPS Executive Director of Facilities Robert is the Executive Director of Facility Operations for Chicago Public Schools. As Executive Director, Rob oversees the district's facilities maintenance and environmental health and safety programs. Rob has been instrumental in creating the vision and leading his teams to develop and enhance IAQ and ecological programs. Under Rob’s leadership, Chicago Public Schools joined the Healthy Green Schools & Colleges program.  Richard Schleyer — CPS Director Richard is the Director of Environmental Health and Safety at Chicago Public Schools and oversees and manages all district environmental program standards and efforts. He and his team manage an extensive environmental health and safety program and have played a vital role in developing and managing the current IAQ programs.   Paul Valente — CPS Automation Architect Paul, the Automation Architect for Chicago Public Schools, oversees the district's management, upgrading, repair, and installation of all Building Automation Systems (BAS) and IoT systems. He plays a key role in coordinating specifications and consolidation efforts, focusing on integrating advanced technology to modernize the district’s controls and management systems.  Brian Martin — Deputy Program Director CPS PMO As Deputy Director of the Chicago Public Schools Project Management Office, Brian is vital in working with CPS teams to develop and manage the program governance and standards for Chicago Public Schools' facilities maintenance and capital renovation programs.  POSTED ON: 12/30/2024 Industry News & Trends Industry Training & Events Advice from the Field Insights & Updates Source link

[alexha2210]

Throughout the COVID-19 lockdown period of the pandemic, Chicago Public Schools (CPS), like many other districts, investigated and tested different solutions to help ensure building occupants felt comfortable enough that buildings were safe for occupancy. Initially, teams worked quickly to implement short-term strategies to address various concerns. That included partnering with third-party technical auditors to inspect ventilation equipment in all spaces, conducting air quality sampling within all schools, and establishing a greater emphasis on air quality control with facility field teams. Subsequently, CPS created standardized processes that are used today to proactively manage indoor air quality (IAQ) issues and keep CPS teams focused on figuring out the best solutions to continue operating effectively moving forward.   The first IAQ strategy implemented was creating an annual air quality sampling program to help the CPS environmental team identify potential IAQ issues. To do this, CPS partnered with three managing environmental contractors (MECs), each assigned to a region within the district. Annually, each MEC takes a sample of the air during occupancy in 25 percent of our rooms, does a 100-percent visual inspection of all rooms, and posts the results on the CPS website (www.cps.edu/AIRQuality).   If any sample readings are identified as above what would be acceptable, the MEC partners develop a scope of work for the CPS facilities teams to use to address the issues causing IAQ problems. The MEC partners then work with our facilities teams and any contractors we bring on board to rectify the problems, ensure that the repairs are handled properly, and not lead to any other environmental concerns within the building.   CPS's second strategy was to develop a quarterly preventative maintenance IAQ sampling check. This is where building engineers collect air quality data using handheld IAQ measuring devices. This portable air quality monitoring device measures PM2.5 and PM10 (both are types of particulate matter), CO2 concentrate, temperature, and humidity. Any readings that our onsite engineers capture as above acceptable levels are reported to the CPS environmental team, who then deploy the MEC to conduct site visits. They will investigate the situation further and develop a recommended scope of work to mitigate any issues found.   This strategy has proven to be a cost-effective way to capture air quality data more frequently. It is now a standard part of our preventative maintenance program.   The third strategy is currently in the pilot phase and is focused on using onsite IAQ sensor technology to collect real-time air quality data within our facilities. During the research phase, we reviewed possible device solutions for this pilot. Our teams looked at several different permanently mounted solutions that would meet multiple needs. We also sought help from IPVM, experts in physical security technology, which had a comparison study on the effectiveness of IAQ monitoring solutions.  We settled on a device based on the effectiveness of the sensors that we tested. These were compared against the IAQ testing tools our environmental contract partners use, as well as the technical requirements that we needed from an IT infrastructure perspective. Those requirements included:    It was understood from the beginning that CPS wanted a holistic technology solution that met CPS's technical requirements and provided the flexibility to integrate with multiple other technology devices that CPS was already managing. Most vendors selling the devices provided a SaaS (Software as a Service) dashboard. However, this was limited to hosting their own devices, restricting us from expanding this program to integrate our current suite of technology solutions. Based on our research and our need for flexibility, we ended up partnering with two vendors. One provided a product for combining BAS (Building Automation System) data and IAQ data dashboards. The second offered a platform for centralized aggregation of the IAQ views.  Today, the CPS IAQ remote monitoring pilot sensor solution is installed in 12 buildings, with 12 to 15 more slated for this capital year, depending on funding support from the budgeting team. This initiative represents a significant step forward in our commitment to ensuring the health and comfort of our building occupants. As the program has been rolling out the initial pilot sensors in these 12 buildings, facilities were chosen to represent a variety of design styles from our portfolio, including two administration facilities.   The technology and strategic set have provided our teams with the tools necessary to monitor and manage issues before complaints are provided proactively. Occupants in a few of the buildings have complained about the air quality over the years, and it was challenging to convince them that there were no risks or concerns — even with air sampling results from environmental consultants. Now that there is continuous data that can be shared with building occupants and leadership, it has proven to be a great tool to help create staff confidence in the current state of IAQ in these buildings.   As progress continues in this pilot program, there are considerations to add a few additional device manufacturers into the mix. When added to the BAS specifications, it will replace the traditional temperature/humidity/CO2 stats and allow for enhanced operating sequences. All-in-all, we are close to having a solid foundational systematic technology solution in place that will allow CPS to scale through the district as resources become available.   About the Authors/Program Owners  Rob Chistlieb — CPS Executive Director of Facilities Robert is the Executive Director of Facility Operations for Chicago Public Schools. As Executive Director, Rob oversees the district's facilities maintenance and environmental health and safety programs. Rob has been instrumental in creating the vision and leading his teams to develop and enhance IAQ and ecological programs. Under Rob’s leadership, Chicago Public Schools joined the Healthy Green Schools & Colleges program.  Richard Schleyer — CPS Director Richard is the Director of Environmental Health and Safety at Chicago Public Schools and oversees and manages all district environmental program standards and efforts. He and his team manage an extensive environmental health and safety program and have played a vital role in developing and managing the current IAQ programs.   Paul Valente — CPS Automation Architect Paul, the Automation Architect for Chicago Public Schools, oversees the district's management, upgrading, repair, and installation of all Building Automation Systems (BAS) and IoT systems. He plays a key role in coordinating specifications and consolidation efforts, focusing on integrating advanced technology to modernize the district’s controls and management systems.  Brian Martin — Deputy Program Director CPS PMO As Deputy Director of the Chicago Public Schools Project Management Office, Brian is vital in working with CPS teams to develop and manage the program governance and standards for Chicago Public Schools' facilities maintenance and capital renovation programs.  POSTED ON: 12/30/2024 Industry News & Trends Industry Training & Events Advice from the Field Insights & Updates Source link

[angusstory]

Throughout the COVID-19 lockdown period of the pandemic, Chicago Public Schools (CPS), like many other districts, investigated and tested different solutions to help ensure building occupants felt comfortable enough that buildings were safe for occupancy. Initially, teams worked quickly to implement short-term strategies to address various concerns. That included partnering with third-party technical auditors to inspect ventilation equipment in all spaces, conducting air quality sampling within all schools, and establishing a greater emphasis on air quality control with facility field teams. Subsequently, CPS created standardized processes that are used today to proactively manage indoor air quality (IAQ) issues and keep CPS teams focused on figuring out the best solutions to continue operating effectively moving forward.   The first IAQ strategy implemented was creating an annual air quality sampling program to help the CPS environmental team identify potential IAQ issues. To do this, CPS partnered with three managing environmental contractors (MECs), each assigned to a region within the district. Annually, each MEC takes a sample of the air during occupancy in 25 percent of our rooms, does a 100-percent visual inspection of all rooms, and posts the results on the CPS website (www.cps.edu/AIRQuality).   If any sample readings are identified as above what would be acceptable, the MEC partners develop a scope of work for the CPS facilities teams to use to address the issues causing IAQ problems. The MEC partners then work with our facilities teams and any contractors we bring on board to rectify the problems, ensure that the repairs are handled properly, and not lead to any other environmental concerns within the building.   CPS's second strategy was to develop a quarterly preventative maintenance IAQ sampling check. This is where building engineers collect air quality data using handheld IAQ measuring devices. This portable air quality monitoring device measures PM2.5 and PM10 (both are types of particulate matter), CO2 concentrate, temperature, and humidity. Any readings that our onsite engineers capture as above acceptable levels are reported to the CPS environmental team, who then deploy the MEC to conduct site visits. They will investigate the situation further and develop a recommended scope of work to mitigate any issues found.   This strategy has proven to be a cost-effective way to capture air quality data more frequently. It is now a standard part of our preventative maintenance program.   The third strategy is currently in the pilot phase and is focused on using onsite IAQ sensor technology to collect real-time air quality data within our facilities. During the research phase, we reviewed possible device solutions for this pilot. Our teams looked at several different permanently mounted solutions that would meet multiple needs. We also sought help from IPVM, experts in physical security technology, which had a comparison study on the effectiveness of IAQ monitoring solutions.  We settled on a device based on the effectiveness of the sensors that we tested. These were compared against the IAQ testing tools our environmental contract partners use, as well as the technical requirements that we needed from an IT infrastructure perspective. Those requirements included:    It was understood from the beginning that CPS wanted a holistic technology solution that met CPS's technical requirements and provided the flexibility to integrate with multiple other technology devices that CPS was already managing. Most vendors selling the devices provided a SaaS (Software as a Service) dashboard. However, this was limited to hosting their own devices, restricting us from expanding this program to integrate our current suite of technology solutions. Based on our research and our need for flexibility, we ended up partnering with two vendors. One provided a product for combining BAS (Building Automation System) data and IAQ data dashboards. The second offered a platform for centralized aggregation of the IAQ views.  Today, the CPS IAQ remote monitoring pilot sensor solution is installed in 12 buildings, with 12 to 15 more slated for this capital year, depending on funding support from the budgeting team. This initiative represents a significant step forward in our commitment to ensuring the health and comfort of our building occupants. As the program has been rolling out the initial pilot sensors in these 12 buildings, facilities were chosen to represent a variety of design styles from our portfolio, including two administration facilities.   The technology and strategic set have provided our teams with the tools necessary to monitor and manage issues before complaints are provided proactively. Occupants in a few of the buildings have complained about the air quality over the years, and it was challenging to convince them that there were no risks or concerns — even with air sampling results from environmental consultants. Now that there is continuous data that can be shared with building occupants and leadership, it has proven to be a great tool to help create staff confidence in the current state of IAQ in these buildings.   As progress continues in this pilot program, there are considerations to add a few additional device manufacturers into the mix. When added to the BAS specifications, it will replace the traditional temperature/humidity/CO2 stats and allow for enhanced operating sequences. All-in-all, we are close to having a solid foundational systematic technology solution in place that will allow CPS to scale through the district as resources become available.   About the Authors/Program Owners  Rob Chistlieb — CPS Executive Director of Facilities Robert is the Executive Director of Facility Operations for Chicago Public Schools. As Executive Director, Rob oversees the district's facilities maintenance and environmental health and safety programs. Rob has been instrumental in creating the vision and leading his teams to develop and enhance IAQ and ecological programs. Under Rob’s leadership, Chicago Public Schools joined the Healthy Green Schools & Colleges program.  Richard Schleyer — CPS Director Richard is the Director of Environmental Health and Safety at Chicago Public Schools and oversees and manages all district environmental program standards and efforts. He and his team manage an extensive environmental health and safety program and have played a vital role in developing and managing the current IAQ programs.   Paul Valente — CPS Automation Architect Paul, the Automation Architect for Chicago Public Schools, oversees the district's management, upgrading, repair, and installation of all Building Automation Systems (BAS) and IoT systems. He plays a key role in coordinating specifications and consolidation efforts, focusing on integrating advanced technology to modernize the district’s controls and management systems.  Brian Martin — Deputy Program Director CPS PMO As Deputy Director of the Chicago Public Schools Project Management Office, Brian is vital in working with CPS teams to develop and manage the program governance and standards for Chicago Public Schools' facilities maintenance and capital renovation programs.  POSTED ON: 12/30/2024 Industry News & Trends Industry Training & Events Advice from the Field Insights & Updates Source link

[tumibaba]

Throughout the COVID-19 lockdown period of the pandemic, Chicago Public Schools (CPS), like many other districts, investigated and tested different solutions to help ensure building occupants felt comfortable enough that buildings were safe for occupancy. Initially, teams worked quickly to implement short-term strategies to address various concerns. That included partnering with third-party technical auditors to inspect ventilation equipment in all spaces, conducting air quality sampling within all schools, and establishing a greater emphasis on air quality control with facility field teams. Subsequently, CPS created standardized processes that are used today to proactively manage indoor air quality (IAQ) issues and keep CPS teams focused on figuring out the best solutions to continue operating effectively moving forward.   The first IAQ strategy implemented was creating an annual air quality sampling program to help the CPS environmental team identify potential IAQ issues. To do this, CPS partnered with three managing environmental contractors (MECs), each assigned to a region within the district. Annually, each MEC takes a sample of the air during occupancy in 25 percent of our rooms, does a 100-percent visual inspection of all rooms, and posts the results on the CPS website (www.cps.edu/AIRQuality).   If any sample readings are identified as above what would be acceptable, the MEC partners develop a scope of work for the CPS facilities teams to use to address the issues causing IAQ problems. The MEC partners then work with our facilities teams and any contractors we bring on board to rectify the problems, ensure that the repairs are handled properly, and not lead to any other environmental concerns within the building.   CPS's second strategy was to develop a quarterly preventative maintenance IAQ sampling check. This is where building engineers collect air quality data using handheld IAQ measuring devices. This portable air quality monitoring device measures PM2.5 and PM10 (both are types of particulate matter), CO2 concentrate, temperature, and humidity. Any readings that our onsite engineers capture as above acceptable levels are reported to the CPS environmental team, who then deploy the MEC to conduct site visits. They will investigate the situation further and develop a recommended scope of work to mitigate any issues found.   This strategy has proven to be a cost-effective way to capture air quality data more frequently. It is now a standard part of our preventative maintenance program.   The third strategy is currently in the pilot phase and is focused on using onsite IAQ sensor technology to collect real-time air quality data within our facilities. During the research phase, we reviewed possible device solutions for this pilot. Our teams looked at several different permanently mounted solutions that would meet multiple needs. We also sought help from IPVM, experts in physical security technology, which had a comparison study on the effectiveness of IAQ monitoring solutions.  We settled on a device based on the effectiveness of the sensors that we tested. These were compared against the IAQ testing tools our environmental contract partners use, as well as the technical requirements that we needed from an IT infrastructure perspective. Those requirements included:    It was understood from the beginning that CPS wanted a holistic technology solution that met CPS's technical requirements and provided the flexibility to integrate with multiple other technology devices that CPS was already managing. Most vendors selling the devices provided a SaaS (Software as a Service) dashboard. However, this was limited to hosting their own devices, restricting us from expanding this program to integrate our current suite of technology solutions. Based on our research and our need for flexibility, we ended up partnering with two vendors. One provided a product for combining BAS (Building Automation System) data and IAQ data dashboards. The second offered a platform for centralized aggregation of the IAQ views.  Today, the CPS IAQ remote monitoring pilot sensor solution is installed in 12 buildings, with 12 to 15 more slated for this capital year, depending on funding support from the budgeting team. This initiative represents a significant step forward in our commitment to ensuring the health and comfort of our building occupants. As the program has been rolling out the initial pilot sensors in these 12 buildings, facilities were chosen to represent a variety of design styles from our portfolio, including two administration facilities.   The technology and strategic set have provided our teams with the tools necessary to monitor and manage issues before complaints are provided proactively. Occupants in a few of the buildings have complained about the air quality over the years, and it was challenging to convince them that there were no risks or concerns — even with air sampling results from environmental consultants. Now that there is continuous data that can be shared with building occupants and leadership, it has proven to be a great tool to help create staff confidence in the current state of IAQ in these buildings.   As progress continues in this pilot program, there are considerations to add a few additional device manufacturers into the mix. When added to the BAS specifications, it will replace the traditional temperature/humidity/CO2 stats and allow for enhanced operating sequences. All-in-all, we are close to having a solid foundational systematic technology solution in place that will allow CPS to scale through the district as resources become available.   About the Authors/Program Owners  Rob Chistlieb — CPS Executive Director of Facilities Robert is the Executive Director of Facility Operations for Chicago Public Schools. As Executive Director, Rob oversees the district's facilities maintenance and environmental health and safety programs. Rob has been instrumental in creating the vision and leading his teams to develop and enhance IAQ and ecological programs. Under Rob’s leadership, Chicago Public Schools joined the Healthy Green Schools & Colleges program.  Richard Schleyer — CPS Director Richard is the Director of Environmental Health and Safety at Chicago Public Schools and oversees and manages all district environmental program standards and efforts. He and his team manage an extensive environmental health and safety program and have played a vital role in developing and managing the current IAQ programs.   Paul Valente — CPS Automation Architect Paul, the Automation Architect for Chicago Public Schools, oversees the district's management, upgrading, repair, and installation of all Building Automation Systems (BAS) and IoT systems. He plays a key role in coordinating specifications and consolidation efforts, focusing on integrating advanced technology to modernize the district’s controls and management systems.  Brian Martin — Deputy Program Director CPS PMO As Deputy Director of the Chicago Public Schools Project Management Office, Brian is vital in working with CPS teams to develop and manage the program governance and standards for Chicago Public Schools' facilities maintenance and capital renovation programs.  POSTED ON: 12/30/2024 Industry News & Trends Industry Training & Events Advice from the Field Insights & Updates Source link

[romaleen]

Throughout the COVID-19 lockdown period of the pandemic, Chicago Public Schools (CPS), like many other districts, investigated and tested different solutions to help ensure building occupants felt comfortable enough that buildings were safe for occupancy. Initially, teams worked quickly to implement short-term strategies to address various concerns. That included partnering with third-party technical auditors to inspect ventilation equipment in all spaces, conducting air quality sampling within all schools, and establishing a greater emphasis on air quality control with facility field teams. Subsequently, CPS created standardized processes that are used today to proactively manage indoor air quality (IAQ) issues and keep CPS teams focused on figuring out the best solutions to continue operating effectively moving forward.   The first IAQ strategy implemented was creating an annual air quality sampling program to help the CPS environmental team identify potential IAQ issues. To do this, CPS partnered with three managing environmental contractors (MECs), each assigned to a region within the district. Annually, each MEC takes a sample of the air during occupancy in 25 percent of our rooms, does a 100-percent visual inspection of all rooms, and posts the results on the CPS website (www.cps.edu/AIRQuality).   If any sample readings are identified as above what would be acceptable, the MEC partners develop a scope of work for the CPS facilities teams to use to address the issues causing IAQ problems. The MEC partners then work with our facilities teams and any contractors we bring on board to rectify the problems, ensure that the repairs are handled properly, and not lead to any other environmental concerns within the building.   CPS's second strategy was to develop a quarterly preventative maintenance IAQ sampling check. This is where building engineers collect air quality data using handheld IAQ measuring devices. This portable air quality monitoring device measures PM2.5 and PM10 (both are types of particulate matter), CO2 concentrate, temperature, and humidity. Any readings that our onsite engineers capture as above acceptable levels are reported to the CPS environmental team, who then deploy the MEC to conduct site visits. They will investigate the situation further and develop a recommended scope of work to mitigate any issues found.   This strategy has proven to be a cost-effective way to capture air quality data more frequently. It is now a standard part of our preventative maintenance program.   The third strategy is currently in the pilot phase and is focused on using onsite IAQ sensor technology to collect real-time air quality data within our facilities. During the research phase, we reviewed possible device solutions for this pilot. Our teams looked at several different permanently mounted solutions that would meet multiple needs. We also sought help from IPVM, experts in physical security technology, which had a comparison study on the effectiveness of IAQ monitoring solutions.  We settled on a device based on the effectiveness of the sensors that we tested. These were compared against the IAQ testing tools our environmental contract partners use, as well as the technical requirements that we needed from an IT infrastructure perspective. Those requirements included:    It was understood from the beginning that CPS wanted a holistic technology solution that met CPS's technical requirements and provided the flexibility to integrate with multiple other technology devices that CPS was already managing. Most vendors selling the devices provided a SaaS (Software as a Service) dashboard. However, this was limited to hosting their own devices, restricting us from expanding this program to integrate our current suite of technology solutions. Based on our research and our need for flexibility, we ended up partnering with two vendors. One provided a product for combining BAS (Building Automation System) data and IAQ data dashboards. The second offered a platform for centralized aggregation of the IAQ views.  Today, the CPS IAQ remote monitoring pilot sensor solution is installed in 12 buildings, with 12 to 15 more slated for this capital year, depending on funding support from the budgeting team. This initiative represents a significant step forward in our commitment to ensuring the health and comfort of our building occupants. As the program has been rolling out the initial pilot sensors in these 12 buildings, facilities were chosen to represent a variety of design styles from our portfolio, including two administration facilities.   The technology and strategic set have provided our teams with the tools necessary to monitor and manage issues before complaints are provided proactively. Occupants in a few of the buildings have complained about the air quality over the years, and it was challenging to convince them that there were no risks or concerns — even with air sampling results from environmental consultants. Now that there is continuous data that can be shared with building occupants and leadership, it has proven to be a great tool to help create staff confidence in the current state of IAQ in these buildings.   As progress continues in this pilot program, there are considerations to add a few additional device manufacturers into the mix. When added to the BAS specifications, it will replace the traditional temperature/humidity/CO2 stats and allow for enhanced operating sequences. All-in-all, we are close to having a solid foundational systematic technology solution in place that will allow CPS to scale through the district as resources become available.   About the Authors/Program Owners  Rob Chistlieb — CPS Executive Director of Facilities Robert is the Executive Director of Facility Operations for Chicago Public Schools. As Executive Director, Rob oversees the district's facilities maintenance and environmental health and safety programs. Rob has been instrumental in creating the vision and leading his teams to develop and enhance IAQ and ecological programs. Under Rob’s leadership, Chicago Public Schools joined the Healthy Green Schools & Colleges program.  Richard Schleyer — CPS Director Richard is the Director of Environmental Health and Safety at Chicago Public Schools and oversees and manages all district environmental program standards and efforts. He and his team manage an extensive environmental health and safety program and have played a vital role in developing and managing the current IAQ programs.   Paul Valente — CPS Automation Architect Paul, the Automation Architect for Chicago Public Schools, oversees the district's management, upgrading, repair, and installation of all Building Automation Systems (BAS) and IoT systems. He plays a key role in coordinating specifications and consolidation efforts, focusing on integrating advanced technology to modernize the district’s controls and management systems.  Brian Martin — Deputy Program Director CPS PMO As Deputy Director of the Chicago Public Schools Project Management Office, Brian is vital in working with CPS teams to develop and manage the program governance and standards for Chicago Public Schools' facilities maintenance and capital renovation programs.  POSTED ON: 12/30/2024 Industry News & Trends Industry Training & Events Advice from the Field Insights & Updates Source link

[monaleen101]

Throughout the COVID-19 lockdown period of the pandemic, Chicago Public Schools (CPS), like many other districts, investigated and tested different solutions to help ensure building occupants felt comfortable enough that buildings were safe for occupancy. Initially, teams worked quickly to implement short-term strategies to address various concerns. That included partnering with third-party technical auditors to inspect ventilation equipment in all spaces, conducting air quality sampling within all schools, and establishing a greater emphasis on air quality control with facility field teams. Subsequently, CPS created standardized processes that are used today to proactively manage indoor air quality (IAQ) issues and keep CPS teams focused on figuring out the best solutions to continue operating effectively moving forward.   The first IAQ strategy implemented was creating an annual air quality sampling program to help the CPS environmental team identify potential IAQ issues. To do this, CPS partnered with three managing environmental contractors (MECs), each assigned to a region within the district. Annually, each MEC takes a sample of the air during occupancy in 25 percent of our rooms, does a 100-percent visual inspection of all rooms, and posts the results on the CPS website (www.cps.edu/AIRQuality).   If any sample readings are identified as above what would be acceptable, the MEC partners develop a scope of work for the CPS facilities teams to use to address the issues causing IAQ problems. The MEC partners then work with our facilities teams and any contractors we bring on board to rectify the problems, ensure that the repairs are handled properly, and not lead to any other environmental concerns within the building.   CPS's second strategy was to develop a quarterly preventative maintenance IAQ sampling check. This is where building engineers collect air quality data using handheld IAQ measuring devices. This portable air quality monitoring device measures PM2.5 and PM10 (both are types of particulate matter), CO2 concentrate, temperature, and humidity. Any readings that our onsite engineers capture as above acceptable levels are reported to the CPS environmental team, who then deploy the MEC to conduct site visits. They will investigate the situation further and develop a recommended scope of work to mitigate any issues found.   This strategy has proven to be a cost-effective way to capture air quality data more frequently. It is now a standard part of our preventative maintenance program.   The third strategy is currently in the pilot phase and is focused on using onsite IAQ sensor technology to collect real-time air quality data within our facilities. During the research phase, we reviewed possible device solutions for this pilot. Our teams looked at several different permanently mounted solutions that would meet multiple needs. We also sought help from IPVM, experts in physical security technology, which had a comparison study on the effectiveness of IAQ monitoring solutions.  We settled on a device based on the effectiveness of the sensors that we tested. These were compared against the IAQ testing tools our environmental contract partners use, as well as the technical requirements that we needed from an IT infrastructure perspective. Those requirements included:    It was understood from the beginning that CPS wanted a holistic technology solution that met CPS's technical requirements and provided the flexibility to integrate with multiple other technology devices that CPS was already managing. Most vendors selling the devices provided a SaaS (Software as a Service) dashboard. However, this was limited to hosting their own devices, restricting us from expanding this program to integrate our current suite of technology solutions. Based on our research and our need for flexibility, we ended up partnering with two vendors. One provided a product for combining BAS (Building Automation System) data and IAQ data dashboards. The second offered a platform for centralized aggregation of the IAQ views.  Today, the CPS IAQ remote monitoring pilot sensor solution is installed in 12 buildings, with 12 to 15 more slated for this capital year, depending on funding support from the budgeting team. This initiative represents a significant step forward in our commitment to ensuring the health and comfort of our building occupants. As the program has been rolling out the initial pilot sensors in these 12 buildings, facilities were chosen to represent a variety of design styles from our portfolio, including two administration facilities.   The technology and strategic set have provided our teams with the tools necessary to monitor and manage issues before complaints are provided proactively. Occupants in a few of the buildings have complained about the air quality over the years, and it was challenging to convince them that there were no risks or concerns — even with air sampling results from environmental consultants. Now that there is continuous data that can be shared with building occupants and leadership, it has proven to be a great tool to help create staff confidence in the current state of IAQ in these buildings.   As progress continues in this pilot program, there are considerations to add a few additional device manufacturers into the mix. When added to the BAS specifications, it will replace the traditional temperature/humidity/CO2 stats and allow for enhanced operating sequences. All-in-all, we are close to having a solid foundational systematic technology solution in place that will allow CPS to scale through the district as resources become available.   About the Authors/Program Owners  Rob Chistlieb — CPS Executive Director of Facilities Robert is the Executive Director of Facility Operations for Chicago Public Schools. As Executive Director, Rob oversees the district's facilities maintenance and environmental health and safety programs. Rob has been instrumental in creating the vision and leading his teams to develop and enhance IAQ and ecological programs. Under Rob’s leadership, Chicago Public Schools joined the Healthy Green Schools & Colleges program.  Richard Schleyer — CPS Director Richard is the Director of Environmental Health and Safety at Chicago Public Schools and oversees and manages all district environmental program standards and efforts. He and his team manage an extensive environmental health and safety program and have played a vital role in developing and managing the current IAQ programs.   Paul Valente — CPS Automation Architect Paul, the Automation Architect for Chicago Public Schools, oversees the district's management, upgrading, repair, and installation of all Building Automation Systems (BAS) and IoT systems. He plays a key role in coordinating specifications and consolidation efforts, focusing on integrating advanced technology to modernize the district’s controls and management systems.  Brian Martin — Deputy Program Director CPS PMO As Deputy Director of the Chicago Public Schools Project Management Office, Brian is vital in working with CPS teams to develop and manage the program governance and standards for Chicago Public Schools' facilities maintenance and capital renovation programs.  POSTED ON: 12/30/2024 Industry News & Trends Industry Training & Events Advice from the Field Insights & Updates Source link

[iamownerofme]

Throughout the COVID-19 lockdown period of the pandemic, Chicago Public Schools (CPS), like many other districts, investigated and tested different solutions to help ensure building occupants felt comfortable enough that buildings were safe for occupancy. Initially, teams worked quickly to implement short-term strategies to address various concerns. That included partnering with third-party technical auditors to inspect ventilation equipment in all spaces, conducting air quality sampling within all schools, and establishing a greater emphasis on air quality control with facility field teams. Subsequently, CPS created standardized processes that are used today to proactively manage indoor air quality (IAQ) issues and keep CPS teams focused on figuring out the best solutions to continue operating effectively moving forward.   The first IAQ strategy implemented was creating an annual air quality sampling program to help the CPS environmental team identify potential IAQ issues. To do this, CPS partnered with three managing environmental contractors (MECs), each assigned to a region within the district. Annually, each MEC takes a sample of the air during occupancy in 25 percent of our rooms, does a 100-percent visual inspection of all rooms, and posts the results on the CPS website (www.cps.edu/AIRQuality).   If any sample readings are identified as above what would be acceptable, the MEC partners develop a scope of work for the CPS facilities teams to use to address the issues causing IAQ problems. The MEC partners then work with our facilities teams and any contractors we bring on board to rectify the problems, ensure that the repairs are handled properly, and not lead to any other environmental concerns within the building.   CPS's second strategy was to develop a quarterly preventative maintenance IAQ sampling check. This is where building engineers collect air quality data using handheld IAQ measuring devices. This portable air quality monitoring device measures PM2.5 and PM10 (both are types of particulate matter), CO2 concentrate, temperature, and humidity. Any readings that our onsite engineers capture as above acceptable levels are reported to the CPS environmental team, who then deploy the MEC to conduct site visits. They will investigate the situation further and develop a recommended scope of work to mitigate any issues found.   This strategy has proven to be a cost-effective way to capture air quality data more frequently. It is now a standard part of our preventative maintenance program.   The third strategy is currently in the pilot phase and is focused on using onsite IAQ sensor technology to collect real-time air quality data within our facilities. During the research phase, we reviewed possible device solutions for this pilot. Our teams looked at several different permanently mounted solutions that would meet multiple needs. We also sought help from IPVM, experts in physical security technology, which had a comparison study on the effectiveness of IAQ monitoring solutions.  We settled on a device based on the effectiveness of the sensors that we tested. These were compared against the IAQ testing tools our environmental contract partners use, as well as the technical requirements that we needed from an IT infrastructure perspective. Those requirements included:    It was understood from the beginning that CPS wanted a holistic technology solution that met CPS's technical requirements and provided the flexibility to integrate with multiple other technology devices that CPS was already managing. Most vendors selling the devices provided a SaaS (Software as a Service) dashboard. However, this was limited to hosting their own devices, restricting us from expanding this program to integrate our current suite of technology solutions. Based on our research and our need for flexibility, we ended up partnering with two vendors. One provided a product for combining BAS (Building Automation System) data and IAQ data dashboards. The second offered a platform for centralized aggregation of the IAQ views.  Today, the CPS IAQ remote monitoring pilot sensor solution is installed in 12 buildings, with 12 to 15 more slated for this capital year, depending on funding support from the budgeting team. This initiative represents a significant step forward in our commitment to ensuring the health and comfort of our building occupants. As the program has been rolling out the initial pilot sensors in these 12 buildings, facilities were chosen to represent a variety of design styles from our portfolio, including two administration facilities.   The technology and strategic set have provided our teams with the tools necessary to monitor and manage issues before complaints are provided proactively. Occupants in a few of the buildings have complained about the air quality over the years, and it was challenging to convince them that there were no risks or concerns — even with air sampling results from environmental consultants. Now that there is continuous data that can be shared with building occupants and leadership, it has proven to be a great tool to help create staff confidence in the current state of IAQ in these buildings.   As progress continues in this pilot program, there are considerations to add a few additional device manufacturers into the mix. When added to the BAS specifications, it will replace the traditional temperature/humidity/CO2 stats and allow for enhanced operating sequences. All-in-all, we are close to having a solid foundational systematic technology solution in place that will allow CPS to scale through the district as resources become available.   About the Authors/Program Owners  Rob Chistlieb — CPS Executive Director of Facilities Robert is the Executive Director of Facility Operations for Chicago Public Schools. As Executive Director, Rob oversees the district's facilities maintenance and environmental health and safety programs. Rob has been instrumental in creating the vision and leading his teams to develop and enhance IAQ and ecological programs. Under Rob’s leadership, Chicago Public Schools joined the Healthy Green Schools & Colleges program.  Richard Schleyer — CPS Director Richard is the Director of Environmental Health and Safety at Chicago Public Schools and oversees and manages all district environmental program standards and efforts. He and his team manage an extensive environmental health and safety program and have played a vital role in developing and managing the current IAQ programs.   Paul Valente — CPS Automation Architect Paul, the Automation Architect for Chicago Public Schools, oversees the district's management, upgrading, repair, and installation of all Building Automation Systems (BAS) and IoT systems. He plays a key role in coordinating specifications and consolidation efforts, focusing on integrating advanced technology to modernize the district’s controls and management systems.  Brian Martin — Deputy Program Director CPS PMO As Deputy Director of the Chicago Public Schools Project Management Office, Brian is vital in working with CPS teams to develop and manage the program governance and standards for Chicago Public Schools' facilities maintenance and capital renovation programs.  POSTED ON: 12/30/2024 Industry News & Trends Industry Training & Events Advice from the Field Insights & Updates Source link

[shelyold]

Throughout the COVID-19 lockdown period of the pandemic, Chicago Public Schools (CPS), like many other districts, investigated and tested different solutions to help ensure building occupants felt comfortable enough that buildings were safe for occupancy. Initially, teams worked quickly to implement short-term strategies to address various concerns. That included partnering with third-party technical auditors to inspect ventilation equipment in all spaces, conducting air quality sampling within all schools, and establishing a greater emphasis on air quality control with facility field teams. Subsequently, CPS created standardized processes that are used today to proactively manage indoor air quality (IAQ) issues and keep CPS teams focused on figuring out the best solutions to continue operating effectively moving forward.   The first IAQ strategy implemented was creating an annual air quality sampling program to help the CPS environmental team identify potential IAQ issues. To do this, CPS partnered with three managing environmental contractors (MECs), each assigned to a region within the district. Annually, each MEC takes a sample of the air during occupancy in 25 percent of our rooms, does a 100-percent visual inspection of all rooms, and posts the results on the CPS website (www.cps.edu/AIRQuality).   If any sample readings are identified as above what would be acceptable, the MEC partners develop a scope of work for the CPS facilities teams to use to address the issues causing IAQ problems. The MEC partners then work with our facilities teams and any contractors we bring on board to rectify the problems, ensure that the repairs are handled properly, and not lead to any other environmental concerns within the building.   CPS's second strategy was to develop a quarterly preventative maintenance IAQ sampling check. This is where building engineers collect air quality data using handheld IAQ measuring devices. This portable air quality monitoring device measures PM2.5 and PM10 (both are types of particulate matter), CO2 concentrate, temperature, and humidity. Any readings that our onsite engineers capture as above acceptable levels are reported to the CPS environmental team, who then deploy the MEC to conduct site visits. They will investigate the situation further and develop a recommended scope of work to mitigate any issues found.   This strategy has proven to be a cost-effective way to capture air quality data more frequently. It is now a standard part of our preventative maintenance program.   The third strategy is currently in the pilot phase and is focused on using onsite IAQ sensor technology to collect real-time air quality data within our facilities. During the research phase, we reviewed possible device solutions for this pilot. Our teams looked at several different permanently mounted solutions that would meet multiple needs. We also sought help from IPVM, experts in physical security technology, which had a comparison study on the effectiveness of IAQ monitoring solutions.  We settled on a device based on the effectiveness of the sensors that we tested. These were compared against the IAQ testing tools our environmental contract partners use, as well as the technical requirements that we needed from an IT infrastructure perspective. Those requirements included:    It was understood from the beginning that CPS wanted a holistic technology solution that met CPS's technical requirements and provided the flexibility to integrate with multiple other technology devices that CPS was already managing. Most vendors selling the devices provided a SaaS (Software as a Service) dashboard. However, this was limited to hosting their own devices, restricting us from expanding this program to integrate our current suite of technology solutions. Based on our research and our need for flexibility, we ended up partnering with two vendors. One provided a product for combining BAS (Building Automation System) data and IAQ data dashboards. The second offered a platform for centralized aggregation of the IAQ views.  Today, the CPS IAQ remote monitoring pilot sensor solution is installed in 12 buildings, with 12 to 15 more slated for this capital year, depending on funding support from the budgeting team. This initiative represents a significant step forward in our commitment to ensuring the health and comfort of our building occupants. As the program has been rolling out the initial pilot sensors in these 12 buildings, facilities were chosen to represent a variety of design styles from our portfolio, including two administration facilities.   The technology and strategic set have provided our teams with the tools necessary to monitor and manage issues before complaints are provided proactively. Occupants in a few of the buildings have complained about the air quality over the years, and it was challenging to convince them that there were no risks or concerns — even with air sampling results from environmental consultants. Now that there is continuous data that can be shared with building occupants and leadership, it has proven to be a great tool to help create staff confidence in the current state of IAQ in these buildings.   As progress continues in this pilot program, there are considerations to add a few additional device manufacturers into the mix. When added to the BAS specifications, it will replace the traditional temperature/humidity/CO2 stats and allow for enhanced operating sequences. All-in-all, we are close to having a solid foundational systematic technology solution in place that will allow CPS to scale through the district as resources become available.   About the Authors/Program Owners  Rob Chistlieb — CPS Executive Director of Facilities Robert is the Executive Director of Facility Operations for Chicago Public Schools. As Executive Director, Rob oversees the district's facilities maintenance and environmental health and safety programs. Rob has been instrumental in creating the vision and leading his teams to develop and enhance IAQ and ecological programs. Under Rob’s leadership, Chicago Public Schools joined the Healthy Green Schools & Colleges program.  Richard Schleyer — CPS Director Richard is the Director of Environmental Health and Safety at Chicago Public Schools and oversees and manages all district environmental program standards and efforts. He and his team manage an extensive environmental health and safety program and have played a vital role in developing and managing the current IAQ programs.   Paul Valente — CPS Automation Architect Paul, the Automation Architect for Chicago Public Schools, oversees the district's management, upgrading, repair, and installation of all Building Automation Systems (BAS) and IoT systems. He plays a key role in coordinating specifications and consolidation efforts, focusing on integrating advanced technology to modernize the district’s controls and management systems.  Brian Martin — Deputy Program Director CPS PMO As Deputy Director of the Chicago Public Schools Project Management Office, Brian is vital in working with CPS teams to develop and manage the program governance and standards for Chicago Public Schools' facilities maintenance and capital renovation programs.  POSTED ON: 12/30/2024 Industry News & Trends Industry Training & Events Advice from the Field Insights & Updates Source link

[iammeandmy]

Throughout the COVID-19 lockdown period of the pandemic, Chicago Public Schools (CPS), like many other districts, investigated and tested different solutions to help ensure building occupants felt comfortable enough that buildings were safe for occupancy. Initially, teams worked quickly to implement short-term strategies to address various concerns. That included partnering with third-party technical auditors to inspect ventilation equipment in all spaces, conducting air quality sampling within all schools, and establishing a greater emphasis on air quality control with facility field teams. Subsequently, CPS created standardized processes that are used today to proactively manage indoor air quality (IAQ) issues and keep CPS teams focused on figuring out the best solutions to continue operating effectively moving forward.   The first IAQ strategy implemented was creating an annual air quality sampling program to help the CPS environmental team identify potential IAQ issues. To do this, CPS partnered with three managing environmental contractors (MECs), each assigned to a region within the district. Annually, each MEC takes a sample of the air during occupancy in 25 percent of our rooms, does a 100-percent visual inspection of all rooms, and posts the results on the CPS website (www.cps.edu/AIRQuality).   If any sample readings are identified as above what would be acceptable, the MEC partners develop a scope of work for the CPS facilities teams to use to address the issues causing IAQ problems. The MEC partners then work with our facilities teams and any contractors we bring on board to rectify the problems, ensure that the repairs are handled properly, and not lead to any other environmental concerns within the building.   CPS's second strategy was to develop a quarterly preventative maintenance IAQ sampling check. This is where building engineers collect air quality data using handheld IAQ measuring devices. This portable air quality monitoring device measures PM2.5 and PM10 (both are types of particulate matter), CO2 concentrate, temperature, and humidity. Any readings that our onsite engineers capture as above acceptable levels are reported to the CPS environmental team, who then deploy the MEC to conduct site visits. They will investigate the situation further and develop a recommended scope of work to mitigate any issues found.   This strategy has proven to be a cost-effective way to capture air quality data more frequently. It is now a standard part of our preventative maintenance program.   The third strategy is currently in the pilot phase and is focused on using onsite IAQ sensor technology to collect real-time air quality data within our facilities. During the research phase, we reviewed possible device solutions for this pilot. Our teams looked at several different permanently mounted solutions that would meet multiple needs. We also sought help from IPVM, experts in physical security technology, which had a comparison study on the effectiveness of IAQ monitoring solutions.  We settled on a device based on the effectiveness of the sensors that we tested. These were compared against the IAQ testing tools our environmental contract partners use, as well as the technical requirements that we needed from an IT infrastructure perspective. Those requirements included:    It was understood from the beginning that CPS wanted a holistic technology solution that met CPS's technical requirements and provided the flexibility to integrate with multiple other technology devices that CPS was already managing. Most vendors selling the devices provided a SaaS (Software as a Service) dashboard. However, this was limited to hosting their own devices, restricting us from expanding this program to integrate our current suite of technology solutions. Based on our research and our need for flexibility, we ended up partnering with two vendors. One provided a product for combining BAS (Building Automation System) data and IAQ data dashboards. The second offered a platform for centralized aggregation of the IAQ views.  Today, the CPS IAQ remote monitoring pilot sensor solution is installed in 12 buildings, with 12 to 15 more slated for this capital year, depending on funding support from the budgeting team. This initiative represents a significant step forward in our commitment to ensuring the health and comfort of our building occupants. As the program has been rolling out the initial pilot sensors in these 12 buildings, facilities were chosen to represent a variety of design styles from our portfolio, including two administration facilities.   The technology and strategic set have provided our teams with the tools necessary to monitor and manage issues before complaints are provided proactively. Occupants in a few of the buildings have complained about the air quality over the years, and it was challenging to convince them that there were no risks or concerns — even with air sampling results from environmental consultants. Now that there is continuous data that can be shared with building occupants and leadership, it has proven to be a great tool to help create staff confidence in the current state of IAQ in these buildings.   As progress continues in this pilot program, there are considerations to add a few additional device manufacturers into the mix. When added to the BAS specifications, it will replace the traditional temperature/humidity/CO2 stats and allow for enhanced operating sequences. All-in-all, we are close to having a solid foundational systematic technology solution in place that will allow CPS to scale through the district as resources become available.   About the Authors/Program Owners  Rob Chistlieb — CPS Executive Director of Facilities Robert is the Executive Director of Facility Operations for Chicago Public Schools. As Executive Director, Rob oversees the district's facilities maintenance and environmental health and safety programs. Rob has been instrumental in creating the vision and leading his teams to develop and enhance IAQ and ecological programs. Under Rob’s leadership, Chicago Public Schools joined the Healthy Green Schools & Colleges program.  Richard Schleyer — CPS Director Richard is the Director of Environmental Health and Safety at Chicago Public Schools and oversees and manages all district environmental program standards and efforts. He and his team manage an extensive environmental health and safety program and have played a vital role in developing and managing the current IAQ programs.   Paul Valente — CPS Automation Architect Paul, the Automation Architect for Chicago Public Schools, oversees the district's management, upgrading, repair, and installation of all Building Automation Systems (BAS) and IoT systems. He plays a key role in coordinating specifications and consolidation efforts, focusing on integrating advanced technology to modernize the district’s controls and management systems.  Brian Martin — Deputy Program Director CPS PMO As Deputy Director of the Chicago Public Schools Project Management Office, Brian is vital in working with CPS teams to develop and manage the program governance and standards for Chicago Public Schools' facilities maintenance and capital renovation programs.  POSTED ON: 12/30/2024 Industry News & Trends Industry Training & Events Advice from the Field Insights & Updates Source link

[januishstory]

Throughout the COVID-19 lockdown period of the pandemic, Chicago Public Schools (CPS), like many other districts, investigated and tested different solutions to help ensure building occupants felt comfortable enough that buildings were safe for occupancy. Initially, teams worked quickly to implement short-term strategies to address various concerns. That included partnering with third-party technical auditors to inspect ventilation equipment in all spaces, conducting air quality sampling within all schools, and establishing a greater emphasis on air quality control with facility field teams. Subsequently, CPS created standardized processes that are used today to proactively manage indoor air quality (IAQ) issues and keep CPS teams focused on figuring out the best solutions to continue operating effectively moving forward.   The first IAQ strategy implemented was creating an annual air quality sampling program to help the CPS environmental team identify potential IAQ issues. To do this, CPS partnered with three managing environmental contractors (MECs), each assigned to a region within the district. Annually, each MEC takes a sample of the air during occupancy in 25 percent of our rooms, does a 100-percent visual inspection of all rooms, and posts the results on the CPS website (www.cps.edu/AIRQuality).   If any sample readings are identified as above what would be acceptable, the MEC partners develop a scope of work for the CPS facilities teams to use to address the issues causing IAQ problems. The MEC partners then work with our facilities teams and any contractors we bring on board to rectify the problems, ensure that the repairs are handled properly, and not lead to any other environmental concerns within the building.   CPS's second strategy was to develop a quarterly preventative maintenance IAQ sampling check. This is where building engineers collect air quality data using handheld IAQ measuring devices. This portable air quality monitoring device measures PM2.5 and PM10 (both are types of particulate matter), CO2 concentrate, temperature, and humidity. Any readings that our onsite engineers capture as above acceptable levels are reported to the CPS environmental team, who then deploy the MEC to conduct site visits. They will investigate the situation further and develop a recommended scope of work to mitigate any issues found.   This strategy has proven to be a cost-effective way to capture air quality data more frequently. It is now a standard part of our preventative maintenance program.   The third strategy is currently in the pilot phase and is focused on using onsite IAQ sensor technology to collect real-time air quality data within our facilities. During the research phase, we reviewed possible device solutions for this pilot. Our teams looked at several different permanently mounted solutions that would meet multiple needs. We also sought help from IPVM, experts in physical security technology, which had a comparison study on the effectiveness of IAQ monitoring solutions.  We settled on a device based on the effectiveness of the sensors that we tested. These were compared against the IAQ testing tools our environmental contract partners use, as well as the technical requirements that we needed from an IT infrastructure perspective. Those requirements included:    It was understood from the beginning that CPS wanted a holistic technology solution that met CPS's technical requirements and provided the flexibility to integrate with multiple other technology devices that CPS was already managing. Most vendors selling the devices provided a SaaS (Software as a Service) dashboard. However, this was limited to hosting their own devices, restricting us from expanding this program to integrate our current suite of technology solutions. Based on our research and our need for flexibility, we ended up partnering with two vendors. One provided a product for combining BAS (Building Automation System) data and IAQ data dashboards. The second offered a platform for centralized aggregation of the IAQ views.  Today, the CPS IAQ remote monitoring pilot sensor solution is installed in 12 buildings, with 12 to 15 more slated for this capital year, depending on funding support from the budgeting team. This initiative represents a significant step forward in our commitment to ensuring the health and comfort of our building occupants. As the program has been rolling out the initial pilot sensors in these 12 buildings, facilities were chosen to represent a variety of design styles from our portfolio, including two administration facilities.   The technology and strategic set have provided our teams with the tools necessary to monitor and manage issues before complaints are provided proactively. Occupants in a few of the buildings have complained about the air quality over the years, and it was challenging to convince them that there were no risks or concerns — even with air sampling results from environmental consultants. Now that there is continuous data that can be shared with building occupants and leadership, it has proven to be a great tool to help create staff confidence in the current state of IAQ in these buildings.   As progress continues in this pilot program, there are considerations to add a few additional device manufacturers into the mix. When added to the BAS specifications, it will replace the traditional temperature/humidity/CO2 stats and allow for enhanced operating sequences. All-in-all, we are close to having a solid foundational systematic technology solution in place that will allow CPS to scale through the district as resources become available.   About the Authors/Program Owners  Rob Chistlieb — CPS Executive Director of Facilities Robert is the Executive Director of Facility Operations for Chicago Public Schools. As Executive Director, Rob oversees the district's facilities maintenance and environmental health and safety programs. Rob has been instrumental in creating the vision and leading his teams to develop and enhance IAQ and ecological programs. Under Rob’s leadership, Chicago Public Schools joined the Healthy Green Schools & Colleges program.  Richard Schleyer — CPS Director Richard is the Director of Environmental Health and Safety at Chicago Public Schools and oversees and manages all district environmental program standards and efforts. He and his team manage an extensive environmental health and safety program and have played a vital role in developing and managing the current IAQ programs.   Paul Valente — CPS Automation Architect Paul, the Automation Architect for Chicago Public Schools, oversees the district's management, upgrading, repair, and installation of all Building Automation Systems (BAS) and IoT systems. He plays a key role in coordinating specifications and consolidation efforts, focusing on integrating advanced technology to modernize the district’s controls and management systems.  Brian Martin — Deputy Program Director CPS PMO As Deputy Director of the Chicago Public Schools Project Management Office, Brian is vital in working with CPS teams to develop and manage the program governance and standards for Chicago Public Schools' facilities maintenance and capital renovation programs.  POSTED ON: 12/30/2024 Industry News & Trends Industry Training & Events Advice from the Field Insights & Updates Source link

[spaceexp]

Space Station Science Highlights: Week of May 11, 2020

ISS - Expedition 63 Mission patch. May 15, 2020 Research activities conducted aboard the International Space Station the week of May 11 included studies of fire safety in space and plant-water dynamics and several ongoing astrophysics investigations. Now in its 20th year of continuous human presence, the space station provides a platform for long-duration research in microgravity and for learning to live and work in space. Experience gained on the orbiting lab supports Artemis, NASA’s program to go forward to the Moon and on to Mars. Here are details on some of the microgravity investigations currently taking place: Burning a safe distance away

Image above: The Cygnus space freighter in the grips of the Canadarm2 robotic arm moments before its release from the International Space Station, ending an 83-day stay. After departure, Cygnus deployed small satellites and hosted a fire safety investigation, Saffire-IV. Image Credit: NASA. After the Cygnus cargo craft departed the space station on Monday, May 11, its Slingshot mechanism deployed several small satellites. Cygnus also provided a safe environment for a study of fire in microgravity, hosting operations of the Spacecraft Fire Safety Experiment – IV (Saffire-IV) after its departure. Understanding how fires spread in space is vital for developing flame-resistant materials and fire prevention measures, but it is difficult to perform flame growth and prevention experiments aboard an occupied spacecraft. Saffire-IV examines fire growth in different materials and environmental conditions and demonstrates fire detection, monitoring and post-fire cleanup capabilities. Untended astrophysics and quantum mechanics investigations Thanks to increasing automation and careful planning, more and more investigations aboard the space station require little or no crew involvement. Examples of such investigations currently operating include the Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer - 02 (AMS-02), Cold Atom Laboratory (CAL) and Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency’s Monitor of All-sky X-ray Image (MAXI).

Image above: ESA (European Space Agency) astronaut Luca Parmitano attached to the Canadarm2 robotic arm with a new thermal pump system for the Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer (AMS). This was the third of four spacewalks to upgrade the cosmic particle detector attached to the outside of the space station. Image Credit: NASA. Scientists theorize that stars, planets and the molecules they contain represent less than five percent of the mass-energy content of the universe. The rest is dark energy and dark matter, which cannot be directly detected. AMS-02 looks for evidence of this mysterious substance by recording cosmic rays, highly energetic particles that bombard Earth from space. Originally planned as a three-year mission, AMS operated for more than 8 years before astronauts repaired and upgraded it, a process that took four spacewalks. Scientists now expect to collect data from AMS for many more years, including through a complete solar cycle. Its repairs notwithstanding, AMS typically operates autonomously, requiring only a power source from the space station. Earlier this year, astronauts also performed major upgrades for CAL. This instrument produces clouds of atoms chilled to near absolute zero, much colder than the average temperature of deep space. This low temperature slows down atoms significantly so scientists can study fundamental behaviors and quantum characteristics that are difficult or impossible to probe at higher temperatures. CAL hardware is powered continuously, with operations conducted for 8 hours per day during crew sleep. It requires crew involvement only for installation, operation updates and, eventually, decommissioning.  Another automated instrument, MAXI, continuously surveys X-ray sources and variabilities as the space station orbits Earth. Operating since 2009, so far MAXI has discovered new black hole candidates, reported more than 20 binary X-ray pulsar outbursts, detected X-ray flares from 12 stars and observed for the first time the instant that a massive black hole swallowed a star. The investigation also released a catalog for high Galactic-latitude sky sources and revealed the existence of a hypernova remnant estimated to be 3 million years old, likely the first in our galaxy. Monitoring plants from space

Image above: The ECOsystem Spaceborne Thermal Radiometer Experiment on Space Station (ECOSTRESS), shown here installed onto the Japanese Experiment Module - Exposed Facility (JEM-EF), provides high-resolution thermal infrared measurements of the surface of Earth. Image Credit: NASA. The ECOsystem Spaceborne Thermal Radiometer Experiment on Space Station (ECOSTRESS) records high space-time resolution thermal infrared measurements of the surface of Earth at varying times during daylight. These measurements could help answer several key questions about water stress in plants and how selected regions of the planet may respond to future changes in climate. ECOSTRESS collects data whenever the space station passes over a target, with start and stop times programmed weekly from the ground, without need for crew involvement. Data are compressed and stored in memory then downlinked as bandwidth is available. Other investigations on which the crew performed work: - Astrobee tests three self-contained, free-flying robots designed to assist astronauts with routine chores, give ground controllers additional eyes and ears and perform crew monitoring, sampling and logistics management. https://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/station/research/experiments/explorer/Facility.html?#id=1891 - AstroPi includes two augmented Raspberry Pi computers equipped with cameras and hardware that measures the environment inside the space station, detects how the station moves through space and picks up the Earth’s magnetic field. The ESA (European Space Agency) AstroPi Challenge offers students and other young people the opportunity to conduct scientific investigations in space by writing computer programs or code for the computers. https://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/station/research/experiments/explorer/Investigation.html?#id=7534 - ISS Ham gives students an opportunity to talk directly with crew members via ham radio when the space station passes over their schools. This interaction engages and educates students, teachers, parents and other members of the community in science, technology, engineering and math. https://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/station/research/experiments/explorer/Investigation.html?#id=337

Space to Ground: Fanning the Flames: 05/15/2020

Related links: Expedition 63: https://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/station/expeditions/expedition63/index.html Slingshot: https://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/station/research/experiments/explorer/Facility.html?#id=7847 Saffire-IV: https://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/station/research/experiments/explorer/Investigation.html?#id=1923 AMS-02: https://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/station/research/experiments/explorer/Investigation.html?#id=729 CAL: https://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/station/research/experiments/explorer/Facility.html?#id=7396 MAXI: https://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/station/research/experiments/explorer/Investigation.html?#id=593 ECOSTRESS: https://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/station/research/experiments/explorer/Investigation.html?#id=1878 ISS National Lab: https://www.issnationallab.org/ Spot the Station: https://spotthestation.nasa.gov/ Space Station Research and Technology: https://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/station/research/overview.html International Space Station (ISS): https://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/station/main/index.html Images (mentioned), Video (NASA), Text, Credits: NASA/Michael Johnson/John Love, Lead Increment Scientist Expedition 63. Best regards, Orbiter.ch Full article

[pinktintedmonocle]

Blue Is Not The Only Colour - A Red Dwarf FanFic - Chapter 1 - NSFW

Red Dwarf is under attack.   All systems are down with no hope of recovery.  The crew is doomed.  And all Lister can think about is Rimmer’s new purple uniform. Fluffy smut for all your Rimster needs!  Set after The Promised Land – spoilers for that episode.

Inspired by one of my favourite fanfics that I’ve recently rediscovered after many years – Catcall by Kahvi and Roadstergal.  There’s a bit in that fic where Rimmer briefly changes his uniform purple and Lister really likes it, and it got me thinking…

Chapter 1: The Lift

“Status report!” screamed Rimmer, bracing himself against the side of the lift as the ship lurched violently to one side.  

Kryten’s face appeared on the screen in the corner of the lift.  “All principal and auxiliary systems are down, sirs, and all doors have been sealed shut.  Mister Cat and I are doing everything we can to reboot the engines but the GELF ship hit us pretty hard.”

Lister attempted to stand up just as the ship started to shake again.  He wisely decided to stay on the floor of the lift.  “When you say you and Cat are doing everything you can, do you actually mean that you are doing everything you can while Cat is preening in front of a mirror?”

“Oh no Mister Lister, Mister Cat is not currently staring at himself in a looking glass.”

“Really?” asked Lister, incredulous.  “You mean he’s actually helping?”

There was a pause while Kryten glanced over his shoulder.  “Well, not exactly.  At the present moment he is making a rather fetching pair of earmuffs out of one of those fur rugs we extracted from that luxury liner we raided last month.  And while that may not seem particularly helpful at present if we do crash it will likely be onto that ice planet directly below us, so at least Mister Cat will have something to keep his ears nice and toasty.”

Rimmer threw up his arms in frustration.  “Oh, well, that’s just marvellous, isn’t it?  The rest of us will perish in sub-zero temperatures, but at least if another crew ever stumbles across our frozen remains they’ll find a pair of perfectly persevered ears to take away as a memento.”

“Hey Rimmer man, just try and calm down OK?” said Lister.  “We’ll get out of this, just like we always do.  Isn’t that right Kryts?”

It wasn’t technically possible for Kryten’s face to turn the sickly green pallor that a human face often does in times of extreme peril, but as Lister and Rimmer watched the mechanoid they both thought that he seemed to be giving it a jolly good try.

“Well, actually sirs, I’m not entirely sure that we will be able to get out of this particularly sticky situation.  In fact, I calculate that our chances of survival are roughly the same as the chances of the UK entry coming in first place in the Eurovision song contest.”

Lister slumped forward and buried his face in his hands.  “So we’re totally and utterly smegged, is that what you’re saying?”

“Yes sir, I’m afraid so.   With no systems online we have no way of –”.  Kryten’s image shuddered and disappeared on the screen.

“What’s happened? Where’s he gone?”  Rimmer demanded hysterically.

Lister just groaned. “We must have lost contact with the science room.  The missiles have probably fried the internal communication systems.”

Rimmer turned on Lister, nostrils flared to full capacity.  “It’s your fault we’re stuck in here, you know.  As soon as we got the attack alert I was prepared to take the stairs. It was you who said it would be quicker to get to the science room if we took the lift.”

“Well it worked last time on the Iron Star, didn’t it?” protested Lister.

“Barely!  It was a miracle we got out of there.”  Rimmer surveyed his surroundings, nose wrinkled in distaste.  “You could have chosen one of the Xpress lifts rather than a bog standard service lift. At least then we’d have somewhere comfy to sit while the GELF fry my light bee and turn you into kebab meat.”

The screen flickered back to life and Holly’s gormless face appeared.  “Hey dudes.  What’s happening?”

The ship rocked dangerously and Rimmer was thrown off his feet, landing on his arse next to Lister. “What’s up?” he screeched.  He managed to pull himself up into a sitting position and clung to Lister’s leg to stop himself from toppling over again. “You mean apart from being minutes away from certain death?”

“Oh yeah, I know about that” Holly replied calmly, looking somewhat bored.  “I meant, like, apart from that.”

Rimmer tried and failed to look commanding from his position on the floor.  He settled on just glaring at the computer screen.  “Hang on; if all the systems are down why are you still running?”

Holly shrugged, which was impressive for a being without any shoulders.  “Don’t know.  Think I’ve just got lucky and the GELF missed my hard drive when they attacked.”

“Is there anything you can do to help us Hol?” Lister cried desperately.  The lift was swaying back and forth continuously now and Lister was starting to feel very dizzy.  He gripped Rimmer’s arm for some support.

“Oh, not really” said Holly. “I could play some chill out music though if you wanted.  Or whale song; that is supposed to be very relaxing.”

“Wait a minute!” exclaimed Rimmer.  “Holly, can you access the Hologram Simulation Suite and change me from hard to soft light?  That way I can get out of this smegging lift!”

“Hang on!” said Lister. “You can’t just leave me here to die by myself!”

Rimmer rolled his eyes. “Don’t be so dramatic Listy, I’d come back for you.  But if I switch between hard and soft light I can go inside the systems that have been hit and see how bad the damage is.  Then if it’s fixable, I’ll report to Kryten and see if he can do some sort of system repair from the science room.”

Lister had to admit that as plans went, it wasn’t too shabby.

“That’s not a bad idea, actually” agreed Holly.

“Well, get on with it then you senile floppy disk!” snapped Rimmer.

“Oh no, I can’t actually do it”, Holly clarified in his usual monotone.  “The controls to do that were damaged by the missile.  I was just saying that it was a good plan, you know, like theoretically.”

“Brilliant!” wailed Rimmer, throwing his hands up in the air before quickly grabbing back onto Lister’s leg as the lift shuddered.  “I’m going to die on this smegging ship a second time, cowering in an elevator with a grotty spacebum who thinks cornflakes covered in grated onion and vindaloo sauce is a healthy and balanced breakfast.”

“Hey man, don’t take this out on me!” protested Lister.  “It’s not my fault those crazy GELF goits decided to bomb us again!”

In fact, Lister thought a little guiltily, it probably was partly his fault.  The GELF had never forgiven him for abandoning Hackhackhack Ach Hachhachac on their wedding night.  He fully expected Rimmer to point this out and continue his snarking, but instead the hologram deflated visibly and let out a long sigh.

“This is it then Listy, after all these years.  I’ll be dead and gone, rather than just dead. We both will.”

Rimmer leaned in a little closer to Lister, and Lister’s brain registered for the first time that Rimmer’s arms were wrapped around one of his legs, while he was clutching one of Rimmer’s arms with both hands.  The soft thrum of electricity emanating from Rimmer’s light bee was oddly calming, and holding onto Rimmer’s hologrammatic body made his hands tingle pleasantly.  He had just started to think about how well defined Rimmer’s arm felt beneath his grasp when Holly interrupted.

“I can change the colour of your uniform though, if that helps.”

“What?” Rimmer asked, bemused.

“Well, I can’t change you to soft light, but I can send a signal to your light bee to change the colour of your uniform from blue to red.”

“And how the smegging hell would that help?” snarled Rimmer.

“Well” said Holly with all the enthusiasm of a sixty year old Geography teacher on the verge of retirement who had just been told they had to teach fourteen year olds about sedimentary rocks for another five years before they could draw their pension, “When you’re soft light, your uniform is red.  So even though I can’t make you soft light so you can go and save the ship, I can make your uniform red so you can look like you’re soft light.  That way you can at least pretend to be soft light and helpful so you can feel a bit better about the whole situation, like, psychologically.”

Rimmer fixed the monitor displaying Holly’s face with a venomously seething glare of such intensity that it would cause any sane sentient computer to immediately start wiping its hard drive just to be rid of the memory of such a glare.  Holly however, being about as sane as an MP for UKIP, just smiled pleasantly back.

“See?” said the computer. Rimmer’s uniform shimmered from blue to red.  A tiny jolt of electricity went through Lister as the change took place.  It was actually quite pleasant and just slightly arousing, which, combined with Lister’s grip on Rimmer’s nicely muscled arm and the fact that the hologram’s hands seemed to be making their way slowly up Lister’s leg as Rimmer clung on for support, caused the beginnings of a stirring in Lister’s groinal region that made him very thankful that he was wearing his baggiest trousers.

“And it’s not just red I can do”, continued Holly, completely oblivious to the reactions of the occupants of the lift.  “I can turn your uniform any colour you want actually.”

Rimmer’s uniform started to shimmer it’s way though the rainbow and every shade in between, from reds to oranges to yellows to greens to blues to purples-

“Stop!” yelled Lister, startling Rimmer.  “Stop on that purple, Hol.”

“Alright”, said Holly. The flickering stopped and Rimmer’s uniform settled on a deep amethyst shade.  “It’s a nice colour that.  Good choice.”

“Yeah, it is.” agreed Lister, somewhat breathlessly.  In that moment Lister thought it was probably the most alluring colour he had ever seen, and given the Cat’s penchant for beautiful fabrics he’d pretty much seen every other colour under the sun.  But there was just something special about this colour; it complemented Rimmer’s pale complexion perfectly and brought out his soft brown eyes.  That and the fact that Lister had received several dozen tiny electric shocks every time Rimmer’s uniform had changed colour meant that he was now as hard as a rock.

Rimmer stared at Lister as if he had a polymorph stuck to his face.  “Have you gone completely loopy?  Has space rot finally taken hold of your brain after one too many beer milkshakes?  We’re on the verge of certain death and all you can think about is the hue of my clothes? I expect this kind of behaviour from that imbecile”, Rimmer jerked his head in the direction of Holly, “but I wasn’t expecting you to go completely senile for at least another five years or so.”

Lister shifted in a way designed to bring Rimmer’s hand slightly further up his thigh.  “Can’t I pay you a compliment before we die?” he asked huskily.

The lift shook again and Rimmer grabbed Lister’s other leg to stop himself from being thrown against a wall.  Lister felt quite faint; he honestly didn’t know how much more contact he could stand with the hologram before he either passed out or came in his pants.  Or both.

Rimmer frowned. “You’ve never paid me a compliment like that before.”

“I must have done,” said Lister, barely holding on to consciousness.

“You definitely haven’t. I would have remembered.” sniped Rimmer.

“Well, I’m paying you one now.”  The lift shook again and although Lister wasn’t unbalanced by this particular shudder he still took the opportunity to grab hold of Rimmer’s other arm. They were properly holding each other now and Lister couldn’t help but be aware of how close their lips were. He took a few deep breaths to steady himself. “I’m just saying that that colour really suits you.  It really, really suits you.  Although maybe not quite as well as the diamond light suit.”

“Oh?” asked Rimmer, who had been distracted from thoughts of impending death by the incredibly rare occurrence of someone saying something nice about him.  “And what was better about the diamond light suit?”

The whacking great codpiece thought Lister, although he didn’t say it out loud.  “It looked good, is all.”  And you looked good in it.  So, so good.  “Hey Hol, give us a moment will you?”

“Ok”, replied the computer. He paused for a second. “There.  That was a moment.”

Lister rolled his eyes. “I meant give me and Rimmer a moment alone Hol.  In other words, smeg off!”

“Oh right”, said Holly, sounding a little offended.  “You could have just said.  You didn’t have to be so rude about it.”  The screen went black.

“You’ve annoyed him now.” stated Rimmer.  “He’ll probably wake you up tomorrow at six with those cockerel sounds he loves so much.”

“There won’t be a tomorrow”, Lister said distractedly, thinking about the word ‘cockerel’.  In particular the first syllable.

“Oh God, I almost forgot!” Rimmer exclaimed.  “I’m going as mad as you.  Must be my memory files shutting down.  I’ll probably be nothing but a drooling mess in a few minutes!”

Lister could tell that Rimmer was on the verge of a full blown panic attack, so he removed his hands from the hologram’s arms (somewhat reluctantly) and grabbed his face instead. The lift gave another shake and somewhere in the distance several alarms started to sound.  It was amazing that the cables holding them in the lift shaft hadn’t snapped yet and sent them plummeting to their deaths.  Lister tried not to think about that.  Or the word ‘shaft’.

“Rimmer”, he said softly, letting his thumb gently rub circles on the hologram’s cheek.  “I know we’ve had our disagreements over the years-”

“We have disagreements every day, Listy”, Rimmer said, although he didn’t try to move away from Lister.  “Most days we’ve had at least seven before you’ve even had your mid-morning curry.”

“Yeah, I know man”, said Lister.  The lift was shaking uncontrollably now.  Lister titled his head forward slightly, his lips only an inch away from Rimmer’s. “But there’s a reason I like to wind you up so much.  There’s a reason I tease you until you get all flustered and your cheeks turn red and you stomp off and I watch your lovely arse as you walk away.”

Rimmer blinked.  “I’m sorry, did you just refer to my arse as ‘lovely���?”

“Yeah, Rimmer, I did. Because there’s something I need to tell ya, something I should have told you a long time ago but I was just too much of a coward.  Because the thing is Rimmer, I lov-”

All of a sudden the lift stopped shaking, the distant alarms grew quiet and the lights in the lift turned back to full brightness.  The screen flickered back to life and Holly’s face re-appeared.  “Is this a good time, or are you two still having your moment?”

Rimmer pulled away from Lister’s embrace and stood up, leaving Lister’s arms feeling horribly empty.

“What the smeg is going on Holly?” Rimmer demanded.  “Why aren’t we dead yet?  What about the GELF missiles?”

“What missiles?” asked Holly, looking puzzled.

“The missiles that hit the ship and were in the process of killing us, you goit!” Rimmer shrieked. Lister couldn’t help think that he looked very sexy when he got all worked up.

“Oh right”, said Holly. “See, the thing is that there weren’t actually any missiles in the first place.  Or any GELF ship.”

Holly’s words hit Lister like a ton of bricks and snapped him out of his lustful reverie.  He scrambled to his feet to stand beside Rimmer. “Hang on a minute, Hol!  What the smeg do you mean there weren’t any missiles or a ship?”

“It’s probably best I let the others explain”, said Holly.

The screen flickered and Kryten’s face appeared on it, looking guiltier than OJ Simpson.  “Oh Mr Lister sir!” exclaimed the mechanoid. “It’s so good to see you again. When we lost contact I was terrified you might have been knocked unconscious, what with the ship shaking so violently and things flying everywhere.”

“I’m fine, Kryts.  But what did Holly mean when he said there were no missiles or no attacking ship?”

“Hang on!” interrupted Rimmer.  “Why did you only ask Lister if he was OK?  What about me?  Why does no-one care about me?”

I care, thought Lister.  His cock, still half hard, gave a twitch of agreement.  In fact, one part of me seems to care about you very much.

Kryten pretended not to hear the hologram.  “Well, you see, Mister Lister sir, what we thought was an attack from a GELF ship turned out not to be a real attack at all but in fact just a very realistic simulation.  It seems that when Red Dwarf was being built it was fitted with newly designed emergency protocol simulation software.  The idea was that once every few months the immersive simulation would be activated so the crew could practice what to do in case of a GELF attack, like the fire drills I believe they used to have back on Earth.”

“Hang on”, said Rimmer. “I’ve never even heard of an immersive emergency drill before, let alone done one aboard Red Dwarf.  When we did a practice drill there just used to be a little alarm that sounded and we all pretended an attack was taking place and lined up in a corridor so a man with a clipboard could tick our names off on a register.”

“That’s because the idea was scrapped before Red Dwarf ever launched”, Kryten continued.  “There was another ship built to the same specifications that took off just before Red Dwarf, but tragically all crew members were killed during the first week of their voyage.  You see, they were so busy doing the simulated attack that they failed to realise that they were actually under attack and the ship was blown up. So the function was never used on Red Dwarf, although the controls to activate it remained.”

“So how the smegging hell did it get activated after three million years?” asked Lister.

Kryten shifted uncomfortably.  “Well, I believe Mister Cat may have been responsible for that, sirs.  You see, the button to activate the simulation is very large and red and shiny, and I believe he just couldn’t resist pressing it.”

The Cat’s face appeared next to Kryten’s on the monitor.  “Actually, I was trying to prise it off the wall to use as a brooch. Pressing it was just an accident.”

“So all that panic and stress we just went through was so the Cat could get a twinkly new accessory?” Rimmer threw up his hands in disbelief. “I nearly had a heart attack just so that feline imbecile could deck himself out like Liberace?”

“Well, sir, as you don’t actually have a heart you aren’t technically capable of having a heart attack –”

“Shut up Kryten!” Rimmer snapped.  “No one cares about your technicalities!  Holly, can you please just open the door to this damn lift.”

Holly’s face reappeared on the screen.  “Can do, Arnold.”  The doors of the lift slid smoothly open and Rimmer stalked out.

“I’ll be putting you all on report for this!”  Rimmer said as he started to walk down the corridor.  “There’s going to be so much paperwork to fill out.  It’s going to be marvellous.”

Lister watched the hologram’s retreating figure with mixed emotions.  It would be so easy just to let him go, to go back to their usual routine of sniping and gripping and repressed feelings.  But did he really want that?

“Hey Rimmer”, he called out. The hologram stopped in his tracks and turned back to face Lister.  

“What?” Rimmer said. Lister hesitated, trying to find the right words.  Rimmer tapped a foot impatiently.  “Well, spit it out.  I haven’t got all day.  Those forms aren’t going to fill themselves out.”

“Do you want to have dinner with me tonight?” Lister blurted out.

Rimmer blinked. “What?”

Lister took a deep breath. “Dinner.  With me. Tonight.  Seven-thirty.  Parrots on G deck.”

“But I don’t eat, Lister, what with being dead for the last three million years.  Or had you forgotten?”

“We can get Holly to programme some hologrammatic food for you.  Something dead fancy, like lobster or something.  I’ll avoid soup though, promise, hot or cold.”

Rimmer’s face creased in confusion.  “But why go to all the bother of creating fake food for a dinner that I don’t even need to eat?  Why would you-”

“It’s not about the smegging food Rimmer!” Lister cried, throwing up his arms in frustration.

“Then what is it about?” asked Rimmer, looking utterly perplexed.

“The fact that I’m smegging in love with you!” screamed Lister.

The silence that followed Lister’s statement was so absolute you could have heard a skutter drop a pin.

Rimmer went very still. “What did you just say?” he asked slowly.

Lister sighed.  There was no going back now.  In for a penny, in for a pound as his Gran used to say. “That I love you, you smeghead, alright? I have done for a while now, but I’ve just been waiting for the right moment to tell you.  But when we thought we were gonna die back there in the lift I realised that there is never going to be a right moment.  So I’m telling you now; I, David Lister, am in love with you, Arnold Judas Rimmer.  And I think that you might feel the same way about me.  And it’s time we talked about that.”

Rimmer opened his mouth to respond but no sound came out.  He opened and closed it for several seconds as if doing an impression of a guppy before he just let it hang open and stared at Lister in shock.

“So seven-thirty, yeah?” asked Lister.  “Then we’ll talk about it?”

Rimmer regained enough motor function to nod mutely.

Lister wasn’t sure if the nod was an acknowledgment of Rimmer’s feelings for him or simply an indication that he would see Lister at seven-thirty.  Hopefully it was both.  Lister smiled.  “Ok, see you then.”  As he walked away, he had a thought and called back over his shoulder.  “Oh, and wear that purple uniform.  It’s very sexy.  And maybe see if you can add a codpiece to it.”

As Lister turned a corner he heard Rimmer make some sort of high pitched choking sound.  As he sauntered away, grinning from ear to ear, he wondered if that was the kind of noise Rimmer might also make in bed. Hopefully it wouldn’t be too long before he found out.

[deltaponline]

Taking Pump Diagnostic Equipment to the Next Level

  Technical paper by James Farley Introduction Pumps are the very heart of fluid-transfer operations. Unexpected failure can devastate production and profits. Operators in the industrial-manufacturing realm have been looking for ways to see into the future, to know when, how and why a pump will need to be serviced before a catastrophic breakdown will bring a halt to the production process. Over the years, manufacturers have worked to improve pump reliability and have developed tools to monitor pump performance and health. However, these tools typically result in little more than a “check engine light” scenario – You know there’s a problem, now what? There is, however, a new pump diagnostic technology – SafeGuard™ – available from Griswold™ that allows the pump and driving motor to be monitored 24/7 via continuous Cloud connectivity. This article will illustrate how the SafeGuard technology works and how it can be a true game-changer in optimizing industrial-pump performance, reliability and cost of operation and maintenance.

SafeGuard™ from Griswold™ is the all-inclusive predictive-monitoring system that identifies failure modes and provides actionable repair guidance, monitoring both the pump and motor 24/7 with Wi-Fi or cellular access. The Challenge In most industrial production and processing operations any unexpected failures can be devastating to the production schedule and, by extension, the operator’s bottom line. The negatives associated with pump failures are many: Disrupted production Batch failures Excessive downtime Costly repairs Costs for new parts and shipping Costs for service calls, which can include overtime Most critically, lost or compromised revenue In many cases, failure can be prevented if the pump is installed and operated correctly. At the most basic, operators must take great care to ensure that the pump is properly aligned, operating without cavitation, has properly lubricated bearings, sufficient baseplate rigidity and more. Getting these wrong will lead to costly, yet preventable, repairs. When a pump failure occurs, replacing the broken component alone may not be sufficient. Getting to the root cause can also be difficult and time consuming. As an example, if a mechanical seal fails, simply replacing it may not prevent a repeat failure if there is a shaft vibration issue that needs to be resolved. Pinpointing a root cause can lead to hours of if/ then assumptions and trial and error, along with the chasing of symptoms that may ultimately require a level of expertise that can only be provided by a (costly) third-party source. Furthermore, if the pump is in a remote location, the level of complexity that is required to keep it operating reliably is ratcheted up. In these types of installations, it is difficult to monitor the pump without having a technician sent to the site, which brings its own added costs and safety issues. Current Industry Solutions Facilities have focused on deploying predictive maintenance (PdM) techniques as a solution to increasing production reliability since the 1990s. In the pump industry, PdM utilized techniques such as vibration and temperature monitoring to observe a pump’s performance and health during operation. Early on, PdM was a manual process where measurements were taken by hand-held devices and manually documented and analyzed. This process relied on vibration experts to interpret the data. Over time, the pump industry has taken baby steps to deploying advanced technology in PdM as a way to help automate the process. While the current technologies have automated the data collection, they still have significant limitations: Complete Machine Monitoring: most technologies are designed to monitor the pump only, even though the pump is only part of the machine. These technologies ignore the health of the motor. Not true remote monitoring: the majority of “remote” monitoring technologies require technicians to be within Bluetooth® range of the pump with a mobile device to accurately gather the data. No real-time data: due to the remote monitoring restrictions, this not only fails to provide real-time data, but also 24/7 monitoring. Alarm only: the data collected by other diagnostic technologies is equivalent to an alert only with no clear level of urgency. Something is wrong, but what is it and when did it occur? No repair guidance: while there is an alert to signify a problem, the root cause is not identified nor any repair guidance offered. No single-source data collection: it is cumbersome to collect the data on all machines within the plant in one easy-to-reference and accessible location. The New Solution When compared to the capabilities of existing predictive pump-monitoring systems, the new SafeGuard diagnostic technology from Griswold, is an undeniable step forward. SafeGuard is the all-inclusive predictive-monitoring system that identifies failure modes and provides actionable repair guidance, monitoring both the pump and motor 24/7 with Wi-Fi or cellular access.

More than 20 Failure Modes are evaluated with more to come: 1. Impeller Imbalance, 2. Pump Soft Foot, 3. Shaft Eccentricity, 4. Vane Pass Frequency, 5. Bearing Lubrication Issues, 6. Bearing Wear, 7. Cavitation, 8. Pipe Strain, 9. Motor Soft Foot, 10. Stator Eccentricity, 11. Rotor Eccentricity, 12. Loose Stator Windings, 13. Loose Rotor Bars, 14. Cracked Rotor Bars, 15. Loose Connections, 16. Worn/Eccentric Fan Sheave, 17. Worn/Eccentric Motor Sheave, 18. Coupling Misalignment, 19. Baseplate (Foundation) Looseness, 20. Electrical Faults, 21. Electricity Discharge Through Bearing How does it work? The SafeGuard system consists of four battery-powered sensors. Two sensors are installed on the pump and two are installed on the motor. All four sensors work in unison to predict the full health of the pump and motor. This capability allows a complete diagnostic reading and analysis of a number of critical performance parameters for the pump, motor, coupling and foundation, including: Tri-Axial Vibration Reading: The equipment’s vibration signature produces extensive details regarding its health and can be used to identify impending bearing failure, misalignment, cavitation levels, pipe strain and more. Temperature Reading: Elevated operational temperatures are a sure indication of upcoming bearing failure, inadequate bearing lubrication, and other causes. Studying temperature trends can help the operator detect thermal-fault signatures, which will provide additional insight into when potential breakdowns may occur. Electromagnetic Reading: The Sensors are able to monitor the pump motor’s true RPM and proactively diagnose electrical faults, which will also enhance vibration-analysis accuracy.

When a potential issue is identified, the SafeGuard™ system from Griswold™ will notify the operator via an automated email report, identifying the level of alert (whether it needs to be handled immediately or it’s something to be aware of), the root cause, as well as actionable resolution guidance. This data is collected in real time by the sensors, compiled by the node and transferred to the Cloud to be analyzed, using the full capabilities of the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT). The data is analyzed by a series of machine-learning algorithms that have been designed to determine the overall health level of the pump and motor, define the root cause of any alerts, and generate steps to resolve the issue. All information can be quickly accessed by logging into the SafeGuard website. The system contains strategic dashboards to highlight the health of all pumps that are being monitored. Details about the pump, health trends and service recommendations can be accessed at a glance. Additionally, the analyst platform provides full access to view and evaluate the raw data. When a potential issue is identified, the SafeGuard system will notify the operator via an automated email report, identifying the level of alert (whether it needs to be handled immediately or it’s something to be aware of), the root cause, as well as actionable resolution guidance. The SafeGuard system is able to identify more than 20 failure modes and counting. Such failure modes include bearing failure, coupling misalignment, cavitation, foundation looseness, and much more (details can be found on the SafeGuard website www.psgdover.com/ SafeGuard). Having the capability to identify an issue, the level of urgency, root cause and repair guidance not only allows plant operators to be strategic in their maintenance schedules, but also can save an operator well more than $100,000 in operation/ maintenance costs over the lifetime of a pump. The chart below shows the average costs of equipment and services that can be avoided if the SafeGuard monitoring technology is properly utilized:

    While the SafeGuard technology is the new gold standard in predictive intelligence gathering, other brands are making similar claims. As the chart below illustrates, these brands cannot offer the exhaustive list of capabilities that are inherent in the SafeGuard system:

    Does it Really Work? Although SafeGuard was qualified in a test facility, the proof comes from the field. The experience of one installation that utilized SafeGuard for over a year tells it all. A SafeGuard system was installed on a new ANSI centrifugal pump used in a chilled water loop for a steel-coating company. Upon installation, the maintenance team completed a startup checklist. The pump was put into service and SafeGuard immediately identified two issues: misalignment and foundation looseness. The cause of foundation looseness was identified immediately as a foundation bolt had come loose. Shocked by the misalignment alert, the maintenance team rechecked alignment with a laser alignment tool and found there indeed was an issue. After correcting these issues, the pump began operating acceptably. If these issues had not been caught in their early stages, the pump would have failed prematurely. After operating acceptably for 11 months, a new alert was identified. SafeGuard identified an electrical fault in the motor that would lead to motor failure. The customer was alerted of this fault and was able to replace the motor before a complete failure occurred. Conclusion There’s little doubt that advances in predictive analytics and technologies have put optimized IIoT solutions within reach for industrial manufacturers. A clear leap ahead in this area is Griswold’s SafeGuard, which takes existing pump diagnostic technology and creates a holistic way of looking at the pump and motor and the linkage between them that makes their operation part of one interconnected system. SafeGuard’s capabilities help optimize pump and motor uptime while increasing their lifespan and operational safety. This will result in fewer accidents that can have a negative impact on site personnel and the surrounding environment, while simultaneously meeting the demanding needs of production schedules and quotas, efficiency, maintenance, repair and replacement costs, spare-parts inventory and – most notably – revenue optimization. Read the full article

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calories in apple pie|Calories in Home Made Apple Pie

Who in their right mind will first consider nutrition each time a bit of apple pie is served at front of those?  Just the expectancy of unmatched textures and taste come in to consideration whenever you find an applepie.  It's normally after the initial sting which the guilt (when there's any) places in.  In the event that you were captured within this country, do not worry.  You and thousands of people all over the centuries are a casualty of its own appeal. Now's concentrate on fitness and health doesn't mean you've got to live a lifetime with no use of curry.  Unlike what the majority of men and women think, it includes more than only the joy of satisfying your tastebuds. Energy A single advantage of the apple would be that the calorie content that could supply you with enough energy to daily.  Calories are your human body's fuel to get anything out of running a marathon into merely doing nothing in any way.  An ordinary person needs 1,500 to 2000 calories every day and a bit of apple pie may give a major chunk of one's own energy condition. Carbs Carbs or sugars are crucial pieces of human nutrition, because they're the key source of carbs of their human anatomy.  It's a great thing which apples contain natural sugars which may increase your caloric amount.  Besides the could be the very simple and intricate sugars found from the sauce, crust of course, when you are blessed, at the icecream in addition to the dish. Fats In contrast to popular belief, fats shouldn't be avoided in a single diet plan.  Fats and lipids are major elements of your human body's cells.  What's more, they help regulate your temperature as well as other vital body procedures.  It's encouraged that you ought to become up to 30 percent of your calorie requires daily out of carbohydrates.  Apple-pie may definitely provide you a everyday dose of fat conditions. Protein Using a piece of apple pie, then you also have to consume fats which are needed in repairing and building tissues and muscles.  It's likewise critical in creating anti bodies to boost your own defenses.  Proteins may also be famous for helping in metabolic process.  Apple-pie nutrition isn't a fallacy.  It's an issue of understanding it's better. Fibers Apples are outstanding resources of fiber.  Surprisingly, dietary fibers can't be digested by your system.  But this really is this nutritional supplement that's expected to help clean your own body.  Researches also have proven that Vitamin C reduce the cholesterol in your system. Sodium Sodium or sodium is imperative to keep up with the total amount of water from your human body cells.  What's more, it's also in charge of proper muscle and nerve building.  Extra salt is discharged through sweat and throughout the pee.  But do not push your luc,k whilst your human body can only process a lot better. Apple-pie isn't only a sanctuary of tastes.  It's a superb way to obtain your human body's required nutrition.  However, just like anything else in this universe, moderation is obviously a smart plan of activity. 6 Strategies for Dealing with an Exercise-Related Harm Howto Enhance Your Balance ... Before You dive The way to Handle Exercising in to Your Busy Schedule 9 Winter Olympic Athletes to Look for Throughout the 2018 Games Cailyn Cox The 2018 Winter Olympics are intriguing for a great deal of reasons; besides needing six new states competing, and four brand new incidents, the PyeongChang winter matches have sent an email of serenity and stability and may offer an diplomatic truce between North and South Korea. You will find 102 decoration occasions, distribute over 15 sports, and also Plenty of athletes to Consider, Here Are a Number of these: Alpine skier Lindsey Vonn has won four World Cup championships and competed at the Olympics four days, however in age 33, and following a very long struggle with injuries, there are rumors she could be staggered in the future.  If that is accurate, subsequently, clearly, you'd like to see her compete final moment. In case you are an icehockey fan you'll absolutely be enthusiastic about watching NFL star Brian Gionta, who also won a Stanley Cup with the New Jersey Devils.  He's the earliest person in the team, however in elderly 3-9, he's up for that struggle and he's accepting the position of captain. Still another intriguing pair to see is French figure skating duo Gabriella Papadakis along with Guillaume Cizeron who're anticipated to play well in this season matches -- they missed to an area in Sochi at 2014.  Based on Time, they will have been dancing together since 2008, along with their trainer asserts they proceed excessively well together, it's almost as though they're not on ice in any way. Erin Jackson can be actually a speed skater, however that which makes her story even more notable is she changed to ice hockey just four weeks until she left the Olympic team, ahead of the she was an in line roller skater.  As though this wasn't remarkable enough by itself, she has also made her mark in history by being the first African American woman to compete at the USA long-track speed skating team. In case you've already been monitoring the Olympic news afterward you'd have discovered that Nigeria is a state that's being represented from the 2018 matches, which is as a result of this women's bobsleigh staff.  Composed of athletes Moriam Seun Adigun, Ngozi Onwumere, also Akuoma Omeoga, that began a Go Fund Me webpage for themselves into those matches. Magnus Kim, that is competing at the crosscountry ski event is just another to see.  His mum is south-korean along with also his dad is Norwegian, however he is going to be competing to get South Korea and it has recently made history at the activity  the first out of the united states to acquire a gold medal for a worldwide event that is international, Time reports.  This triumph happened in 20-16 in Youth Winter Olympics,  all eyes are going to be on Kim to see whether they is able to make history yet more. Recall if you really do desire to see the matches, PyeongChang is 14 hours ahead of Eastern Time. Howto Enhance Your Balance ... Before You dive The way to Handle Exercising in to Your Busy Schedule Vino Vidi Vici!  Here Are 5 Best Health Advantages of Drinking Redwine 8 In-door Cardio-exercises That Do Not Call for a Treadmill Andrew Peloquin When a lot of men and women consider in door aerobic exercises, then they instantly consider walking, jogging, running or running to a treadmill.  But hold, pedals are not the sole option!  In reality, it's possible to still receive yourself a killer aerobic exercise without stepping onto a treadmill.  Below, we have eight excellent indoor aerobic exercises that you can do when you never possessed or used a treadmill on your own life. Jump-rope Jumping rope is also an remarkable type of exercise, as a result of the simple fact you're over repeatedly jumping.  Jumping requires a lot more muscle energy compared to jogging, running, or walking, also it places a pretty evident strain on your heart.  You're going to be breathing hard in only a couple of minutes of jumping rope, and you're going to really feel the burn in your thighs.  If you genuinely need to kick up the intensity a notch, throwin a couple "double-unders."  The highintensity work out can have you breathing hard very quickly. Box Jumps Once more, you are able to exploit the ability of one's jumping muscles to provide a killer aerobic work out.  Establish a carton or simply jump on a ledge, place in knee height, knee elevation, and on occasion even waist elevation.  The volatile action of jumping burn up plenty of aerobic and anaerobic fitness exercise, providing you with a cardio workout which you will feel over a few minutes. Jump Squats Mix somewhat of aerobic to your lower body work out by including a jump by the conclusion of one's squat.  The squat section will participate muscle tissue and burn up ATP energy, and then your skipping section works your cardio vascular system and burn up fat.  A couple of places of them could get you sweat hard and breathing deep. Switch Lunges That isn't too hard in your own cardiovascular system, therefore it is somewhat easier for people that are only becoming used to blending weight training with aerobic vascular.  The simple fact you are leaping between moves means you are going to burn much more energy than you'd only jelqing.  The consequences in your lungs and heart are all amazing! Plank Jacks You're able to mix this work out to your own regular to push your heart, arms, shoulders, and chest muscles when getting a killer aerobic session.  The simple fact you are in board position the whole time ensures you are going to have the burn in muscle tissue, and also the steady motion of one's thighs will probably make your cardio vascular system working such as a boss. Mountain Climbers This practice is straightforward enough, however it's fantastic for sculpting your heart and receiving the heart burning off.  After a couple dozen of them, you are going to be breathing hard and feeling the burn off on your chest muscles, heart, and hip muscles. Burpees Burpees will be the greatest aerobic exercise for immunity Trainers!  The simple fact you just squat, jump straight back, push, jump forwards, stand, and then jump in the atmosphere means that your body is obviously moving, and there is virtually no time to get rest.  It's really a killer aerobic exercise which may push you to your own limits, however many times you perform them. Stairs Occasionally, it's best simply to keep it simple!  This is just a specially helpful practice to do on your office building, where you do have greater than three flights of stairs to grow.  The two ascent and descent will continue to work your muscles and cardio vascular system, therefore that it's worth hanging out walking, jogging, or running along those stairs. A couple of straightforward exercises, however they are able to have an remarkable impact on your cardio vascular operation!  On top of that, you are never going to need to have a treadmill to accomplish them. The way to Handle Exercising in to Your Busy Schedule Vino Vidi Vici!  Here Are 5 Best Health Advantages of Drinking Redwine When Is It Time to Improve Your Own Fitness Regimen? 6 Strategies for Dealing with an Exercise-Related Harm Andrew Peloquin We are all comfortable with the rewards of exercise, however it is critical to bear in mind that exercise has its own drawbacks too.  Should we push ourselves too much, get cluttered with all our shape, or only step the wrong method, the danger of injury is significantly higher while doing exercise.  Exercise-related harms are able to prevent you from their fitness center or off the trail for a couple of days, weeks, months or maybe weeks.  It's vital you are aware of just how to recoup the ideal way. Inch.  PRICE, obviously.  PRICE is a acronym which stands for Pressure, Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation.  The blend of those five things will probably certainly reduce swelling, and reduce the probability of further trauma, prevent pain, protect the joints, and also accelerate healing.  Consistently treat your exercise-related mishaps with one of these matters. Immobilize the injured body area. When you tweaked your spine, sprained your ankle, or dragged into a muscle, then it's imperative that you provide the system time to fix the harm.  If you should be always moving the wounded area, the own body will need more time to heal.  This is exactly why you put in a brace for the own back, a splint for the wrist, or even perhaps a brace for the ankle.  Immobilizing the wounded area prevent further damage, and also what immobilizes it's going to additionally enhance protection and support to accelerate healing. Get the ideal therapy. If you really don't know exactly what the injury is, then how are you really supposed to take care of it?  When the injury is more severe than a sprained ankle, then it's ideal to visit a physician to acquire the injury characterized.  The physician will supply you with a easy path of treatment (including medications) that'll allow one  heal as rapidly as achievable. Try out physical therapy. Many times, injuries occur since the muscles surrounding the wounded area ended up unable to encourage the impact or weight, hence the connective tissues or bone has been damaged.  Physical therapy may be god send to not just strengthen muscle tissue but also revive suitable alignment and freedom into your joints. Eat well. The own body is only going to have the ability to produce repairs in the event that you provide it the fuel it takes.  This usually means you have to be certain that you eat a great deal of the nutrition required to take care of the particular injury.  For muscle accidents, you want more proteins.  For bone fractures, you want more zinc, calcium, calcium, manganese, and calcium.  For joint harms, you'll need foods such as salmon, mackerel, broccoli, broccoli, and leeks.  Nutrition is all about if coping with an accident. Simply take it slow. Rush is an significant part PRICE, which is what's going to enable the body to produce repairs.  But after you feel you are treated, you will need to be cautious to not push yourself too much.  Simply take it slow down your very first days back into practice, also listen to a own body for some complaints, aches, or pains.  It's far better to break a couple more days than to hazard re-injuring your self by simply pushing too much too quickly. These basic recommendations can make a huge difference while you get over the injury.  Practice the steps above, and you're going to be straight back to working outside at almost no time! Vino Vidi Vici!  Here Are 5 Best Health Advantages of Drinking Redwine When Is It Time to Improve Your Own Fitness Regimen? The Leading Ten Health Advantages of Spicy Foods Howto Enhance Your Balance ... Before You dive As you get older, balance is changed.  Nonetheless, you're able to create a difference on your balance with routine exercises. Bethany Kochan People today are inclined to consider balance problems as an issue for elderly adults -- and it's also.  In reality, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate that over 800,000 patients a year are hospitalized because of fall accident.  However, it's really a slow progression.  You might not really notice therefore far until a day that you appear to head over nothing and can not capture your self.  Hopefully, you merely wind up getting a bruise which heals fast, but do not wait.  Alternatively, be more proactive and increase your balance in order to prevent decreasing, along with the harms which include this. Guideline Out Other Reasons Before you assume the balance is merely awful, get examined by your physician.  Balance issues can result from vestibular issues on your mind, and sometimes even attention issues.  If your medications, examine labels.  Some could lead to dizziness or possess some other side effects which might influence your balance.  Once you exclude any medical difficulties, take effect on workouts. Alter Your Weight Stand with the feet apart, knees slightly flexed.  Retain your weight equal on both the legs.  Slowly, shift your weight to the ideal leg, leaving the remaining foot onto to the floor only for balance.  From that point, decide to try to lift the left foot away from the ground and hold in your own right leg to get upto 30 minutes.  In the event that you fail to do 30 minutes, then observe how much time you can take.  Actually when it's just two moments it's going to provide you a starting place.  Put your left foot straight back off, and then shift to the left, then lifting the ideal foot away from the soil.  Repeat around 10 times daily as you become stronger. You might just have the ability to alter your weight, perhaps not lift your foot nonetheless.  That is fine.  With consistency and practice you will change. One-leg Balance Together with all the body weight shift, you're working to let your leg blot across a ground to capture the human own body as needed.  This moment, you're getting to really lift your foot farther away from a ground and also balance on one leg.  Make use of a bench or the wall socket when necessary once you begin.  Shift your weight on your right leg.  Focus your gaze in a thing which isn't moving as a way to help your own balance.  Bend your left knee raising your foot.  Hold for approximately 30 minutes, attempting never to catch the wall or chair for support.  Shift sides.  Repeat around ten times per leg since the balance improves. Insert Some Movement After it's possible to balance in a static posture, add a few movement.  Start slow by lightly moving your arms as you balance on one leg again.  Lift up your right arm upward in front of you and straight back again down.  Afterward your arm.  Consider bringing them more overhead.  You might even move the leg that's raised.  Bring your knee along without even touching the foot into the ground.  Each one the matters may challenge your balance farther. Build Strength Reduced body fatigue may donate to balance problems.  If you aren't a regular exerciser, you intend to addin someone weight loss exercises to increase functioning and balance.  Insert some seat squats side your workouts.  Be certain the seat you use wont slip out from below.  Stand with the feet cool to shoulder-width apart and maintain your feet near the seat.  Sitdown slowly together with as much hands as possible.  Alter your body forwards and push your heels rack up, squeezing your glutes.  Repeat to 15 days for a few sets.  You might want to use the fingers to push down and up first.  As you become stronger, do your best never to make use of your hands in any way. You are able to add different exercises such as squats, glute bridges or normal bodyweight workouts to additionally improve lower body strength and also focus with balance. When Is It Time to Improve Your Own Fitness Regimen? The Leading Ten Health Advantages of Spicy Foods Probably the Wonderful Places on the Planet to Move to Get a Run The way to Handle Exercising in to Your Busy Schedule You never have going to the gym for one hour or even longer everyday to receive your exercise.  Slip it in every daily life, and feel amazing! Bethany Kochan Life is currently busy.  Work, relationships, family members, friends, children, pets, and household responsibilities, and errands ... the list continues on.  And some times, something has gotkindly give.  Many times, it could become your work out.  People today consider work being a luxury, not absolutely essential.  It can be both.  Exercise will make you seem fantastic, however in addition, it affects your quality of life, stress levels and the way you deal on a day today basis.  That you never have going to the gym for one hour or even longer.  As an alternative, squeeze exercise into every daily life, and reap the advantages. Plan Ahead Many individuals possess a calendar in their own phone, using the pc or some fantastic conservative paper.  You jot off your program to your work, the children, and also every additional appointments or responsibilities you might have.  Well, start out writing in practice.  Make it important.  Maybe on Monday that you simply possess a 15-minute window of time for you to receive it in -- which is fine!  Or even Wednesday has gone outside thanks to kid's tasks that keep you really busy.  However, Thursday that you have one hour or so.  Write down it!  When it's 5 minutes or 60, policy for just a small activity on many days of one's week.  Do not bypass it unless a emergency situation pops up.  Life does move on, afterall. Keep it Moving Circuits, Tabata and HIIT are great time savers.  You're able to find some good cardio done, a few immunity training and also burn up a great deal of calories.  You certainly can execute a quick circuit of exercises, pushups and bike crunches together with jumping-jacks inbetween each exercise going to on the muscle tissues in the physique.  Ten moments and also done!  Or, try out a Tabata-style work out for a few minutes of exceptionally intense exercise in one moment.  You can certainly do as much four-minute sections because you would like at the same moment, or perform a single at any given time, squeezed in to daily.  Tabata is 20 minutes of extreme exercise such as jumping jacks, burpees, jump squats, or hill bikers (to list a couple) accompanied by 10 minutes of rest.  Duplicate eight times for the four-minute work out. Makes the Children Lots of individuals who have kids believe it is very hard to get enough time and energy to exercise.  Well, attempt to call for them!  Once the weather allows, escape outside.  As the children play at the playground, execute a quick leg circuit working with the apparatusoff or away into the side whether it's busy.  Jog periods while pushing the stroller, or perform some walking squats.  Let your children ride down and up the side walk as you see, and find yourself a work done from the drive with some rings.  Have your children count repetitions for you as you do a little push ups, or allow them to take to some with you personally. Anything you're ready to do per day is much better than nothing in any way.  Exercise includes a cumulative effect, therefore that those five or more 10-minute spells will enhance your health as time passes.  Make an effort to adhere to an agenda, but do not get frustrated whenever you want to make alterations.  Just continue, and you're going to reap the gains! The Leading Ten Health Advantages of Spicy Foods Probably the Wonderful Places on the Planet to Move to Get a Run The Safest (and Most Dangerous) Countries to Provide Birth In Vino Vidi Vici!  Here Are 5 Best Health Advantages of Drinking Redwine Cailyn Cox Of all of the alcoholic beverages you can drink guilt-free, reddish wine tops the list while there's in fact quite a few health benefits associated with moderate red wine consumption -- and I am not talking to how you just feel less worried after having a glass or 2. Based on Prevention, a report conducted by Universidad Complutense de Madrid in Spain, actually discovered that roses made out of High fiber Tempranillo red berries may lower your cholesterol.  And along with the, the polyphenols (the anti oxidants that are within red wine) might help lessen reduction by keeping bloodstream elastic and thus improving general heart health.  As stated by Dr. Axe in a few areas in France where dark wine can be consumed while residing, there may actually be deaths brought on by cardiovascular problems. Therefore, it seems that dark wine may certainly help cardiovascular health, however it could allegedly also help fight free radical damage.  Dr. Axe reports which the antioxidants found in red wine may counteract oxidative stress from preventing and repairing damage brought on by oxidation.  And researchers at the University of Virginia enlarged this particular though, because in accordance with reports, even if a glass of red wine has been drunk three to 4 times weekly, then your compacted degrees of resveratrol (that will be located in grape skin) maybe sufficient to purge cancer cells that are new. Based on Healthline, studies also have proven that drinking one to 3 glasses of red wine each day was associated with the reduced risk of dementia and Alzheimer's disease, which it might also provide a beneficial impact in your insulin levels, as research has found that individuals who drink 2 glasses of routine red wine each day for a time period of a month may decrease insulin resistance. And finally, redwine has a beneficial impact on the mood and can be reported to assist in preventing melancholy.  In accordance with News.com.au a Spanish study found that people who drank between seven and two glasses of red wine a week were not as likely to be diagnosed with depression than people that did not consume the drink. Read the full article