Home Builder Developer - Interior Renovation and Design

Leading Heated and Cooling Sports Bench Provider Brings the #1 Bench in Sports to Americas Pastime

Bourne Creations Inc., dba "Dragon Seats", the manufacturer and provider of patented heated and cooling sports benches to 19 NFL Member Clubs, 41 Division I college programs, 2 XFL franchises, and NHL Winter Classics has officially installed its first set of heated sports benches for the Iowa Hawkeyes mens baseball program within the home dugout at Duane Banks Field. The fully customized set of Dragon Seats heated seats includes three 12-foot sports benches and one six-foot sports bench, which will provide a continuous, temperature-controlled heated surface to keep players and coaches warm in the dugout.

Dragon Seats heated and portable sports benches are trusted by athletes across the country who play in both extremely cold and hot scenarios. During the first half of the Iowa baseball season, many games are played in below-freezing or near-freezing temperatures. Dragon Seats ergonomically designed heated sports benches provide a comfortable, heated surface to rest on, even in the most extreme conditions. With baseball, starters may sit for upwards of 10-15 minutes at a time before retaking the diamond or batters box, so staying warm and loose is imperative to stave off muscle tightness and prevent muscle injuries.

"The new year is off to an incredible start for Dragon Seats and we couldnt be happier to bring our player benches into a new sport at a top-tier baseball program that Coach Heller is building. The custom installation in the dugout is a major step forward for us," said New York City-based Franklin Floyd, chief operating officer at Dragon Seats. "Were confident that our sports benches will help reduce the risk of muscle injury, and keep the Hawkeye student-athletes loose and ready to play even in the coldest conditions."

Led by Coach Rick Heller, the Iowa Hawkeyes mens baseball team has grown into a perennial Big Ten Conference and NCAA championship contender. Much of the success can be attributed to Hellers efforts to inject new life into the Iowa baseball program and provide a holistic and exciting atmosphere for the team. This includes using best-in-class equipment that can help improve player safety, performance, and comfort.

"One area of focus is on providing the team with the best and highest-quality equipment so our players can be confident when they step into the batter's box or onto the field. Given the conditions we play in, Dragon Seats benches will play a critical role in giving our athletes that edge," Coach Heller said.

To learn more about Dragon Seats and their patented heating and cooling technology please click here. Dragon Seats can also be found on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram.

About Dragon Seats

Based in Cleveland, Ohio, and with satellite offices in New York City and south Florida, Bourne Creation Inc. dba "Dragon Seats" started as the heated sideline bench provider for the Cleveland Browns in 2005 and now has a 15-year track record providing safety, performance, and comfort to athletes across the NFL, NCAA, XFL, and NHL. The companys patented heated and cooling portable sports bench technology has helped it become the #1 bench in sports. Dragon Seats sports benches can be found on the sidelines of 19 NFL Member Clubs, 41 NCAA Division I football programs, 2 XFL Clubs, NHL Winter Classics, hospitality spaces, and most recently in baseball dugouts. In total Dragon Seats provides over 400 portable heated and cooling benches in 75 locations across the United States at all levels of competition. To learn more visit http://www.dragonseats.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20200303005224/en/

Contacts

Dragon Seats Franklin Floyd, COOPhone: 216.286.5042Email: press@dragonseats.com

Iowa HawkeyesName: Rick Heller, Head Baseball Coach for the Iowa HawkeyesPhone: 319-335-9259Email: rick-heller@iowabaseball.com

Originally posted here:
Dragon Seats Announces Partnership with University of Iowa Baseball Program; Hawkeyes are First to Install Custom, Heated Benches in Dugout - Yahoo...

Smart buildings are not just buildings equipped with separate applications that can turn on the lights in response to vocal instructions or adjust room temperatures as the weather changes. Rather, in a smart building, various systems heating, ventilation, lighting and security are connected to each other to facilitate efficient and environmentally sound operations. Indeed, it is already possible to establish a system via the Internet of Things (IoT) that interconnects several smart buildings. New applications in space management, environmental monitoring, asset management, hygiene management and other emerging areas are forecasted to create US$ 2 billion in software and services revenues by 2026.

These connected devices generate valuable data, which owners and operators can aggregate, analyze and apply not only to improve building performance and understand occupants needs, but to predict larger market trends.

On the other hand, smart buildings raise operational cybersecurity issues since any entity that connects into a system can, if compromised, become a vector for an attack. The massive volumes of data generated by connected devices also bring with them serious concerns: not only operational issues, involving sensors, network connectivity, and storage power, but concerns about analytics understanding what all the data means and about security protecting all of that data from those who want to steal and misuse it.

To address these risks, some companies have started embracing modern-scale technology as part of their everyday operations, with a particular focus on the security, privacy and reliability of their IoT devices. Meanwhile, regulators are entering the arena, expressing concerns about the potential threat to valuable personal data, and calling for heightened accountability for the property owners and operators of smart buildings.

In this article, we analyze the legal implications of operating smart buildings.

Smart buildings are smart

In a smart building system, a network of devices, empowered by sensing, processing, and communication units, detects real-world events, exchanges data, and reacts to the outside environment, monitoring certain processes and making corresponding decisions without human intervention. The data generated from such a network is a valuable asset that can be used to guide future management decisions and provide a foundation for even stronger building performance.

For example, many developers now offer myriad amenities to occupants of office buildings, such as multimedia entertainment rooms, rooftop decks, fitness centers and bars. They install and maintain such amenities not because they are following fads but because data analytics indicate their tenants or employees want them and will use and enjoy them. Long gone are the days when companies made decisions based on subjective thinking, guesswork, or the majority votes of senior managers. More and more often, real estate companies are relying on sensors and devices installed in their buildings to determine whether the amenities they provide represent the optimal use of building space. These devices give property managers real-time occupancy rates and historical usage data. A smart building system can also send notifications to occupants, unlock doors, and provide guidance in the event of an emergency by managing access control, security systems, and camera systems. Other smart building features include automatic control of routine maintenance tasks, such as ordering new light bulbs, optimizing HVAC systems by instantly streamlining heating and cooling of a space, detecting malfunctions and defects, and measuring and adjusting energy consumption via artificial intelligence-based machine learning. Smart buildings facilitate real-time data collection and provide automatic and remote control mechanisms, working far beyond the capabilities of conventional building control systems.

PropTech-equipped smart building systems resolve security and privacy issues

Such interconnected systems, however, make smart buildings more vulnerable to cyberattacks. One example is a 2017 incident in a Las Vegas casino, which was hacked via an Internet-connected thermometer in a lobby fish tank. Sensors in the fish tank, connected to the casinos computer network, monitored the temperature, food levels, and cleanliness of the tank. The network connection, however, gave hackers a gateway into the casinos main database, through which they were able to access high rollers personal information.

These cyber incidents may become more common as buildings incorporate technology and connected equipment to automate building operations. And, to make things worse, todays hackers are going beyond basic ransomware (which holds a system hostage until a ransom is paid) to deploy siegeware software that can take control of smart building devices, shutting down critical operations such as HVAC, lighting or security systems, and denying physical access to and from the building by occupants and, in such siegeware cases, the control wont be rescinded unless the hackers receive a ransom.

The typical responses to such cyberattacks include deploying a cyber-response team and carrying cyber-risk insurance to compensate for business losses that occur in the wake of a breach. In addition to these conventional methods, propTech-equipped companies are taking proactive steps, strengthening their IoT security by using heightened and advanced identity and access systems.

Networks are vulnerable to hacking mainly because of single points of gateway access. Emerging technology such as blockchain uses a distributed ledger to store recorded data, thereby decentralizing and securing data independently and lessening the range and degree of risk even if one of the interconnected devices is hacked. Further, blockchains resistance to data alteration significantly blocks attempts at IP address forgery, so that hackers cannot mask their identities and malicious intent by using fake access identities or otherwise temper a networks setting. In terms of data privacy, all transactions stored on the blockchain are encrypted and are protected by a secure authentication mechanism to restrict data access. This zero knowledge technology ensures a verifiable proof of the private datas validity without revealing any additional information other than the truth of the verified property. Thus, any usage or data is not easily traceable to sensitive personal information or the identity of a particular person. Highly confidential information can be stored off-chain and only transaction IDs (hashes) are recorded on the blockchain for verification purposes, providing a higher level of privacy for purposes of authorizing and issuing restricted permissions.

Smart tech, smart regulations

As new technologies are emerging, so, too, are new regulations and guidelines which largely focus on accountability and liability, given concerns that the collection and storage of digitized building data may disclose sensitive personal data. Unlike the European Union, the United States has not yet implemented comprehensive privacy and data protection laws. With a few exceptions (as noted in the below FTC recap), issues of privacy and the security of personal information are primarily regulated at the state level. There is currently no federal-level privacy law that would preempt state privacy laws. Many states have implemented laws regarding safeguarding data, disposal of data, privacy policies, appropriate use of personal information, and data breach notification.

State privacy laws

The most significant state privacy law is the California Consumer Privacy Act of 2018 (CCPA), effective January 1, 2020. The CCPA imposes substantial requirements on the collection, use, and disclosure of personal information. CCPA applies to any business that collects personal data about California residents. CCPA defines a business as a for-profit legal entity that collects and determines how California residents personal data is processed and meets one of the following requirements: (1) has annual gross revenue in excess of $25 million (revenue of the company in total, not solely revenue derived from California); (2) annually buys, sells, receives, or shares the personal data of 50,000 California residents; or (3) derives 50 percent of its annual revenues from selling California residents personal data. A business also includes any entity that is controlled by the business and shares common branding. CCPA requires businesses to provide a detailed notice to California residents that describes the businesss personal data processing and rights. Businesses are required to provide California residents, upon request, detailed descriptions of how the business discloses their personal data to service providers and third parties.

California IoT law

Californias Internet of Things (IoT) Security Law went into effect on January 1, 2020 (SB-327). It is the first IoT-specific security law in the United States, requiring manufacturers of connected devices that sell their products in California to incorporate reasonable security features appropriate to the nature and function of the device and the information it may collect or transmit. The law is designed to protect the device and any information from unauthorized access, destruction, use, modification or disclosure, wherever the device is made.

Both manufacturing companies and companies contracted to manufacture IoT devices sold in California need to comply with the new law. The law does contain several exclusions, including security vulnerabilities caused by user installation of third-party software although, since the interconnectivity of third-party software may be the source of a security breach, it remains uncertain whether manufacturers are liable for connected device interactions with such third-party software. A connected device is defined quite broadly and means any device or other physical object that is capable of connecting to the internet (even by being paired with another device) and assigned an IP or Bluetooth address. The law is not limited to mere consumer devices. This definition potentially covers features used in a smart building, such as smart thermostats, keycard readers, security cameras, environmental control panels and light bulbs.

The reasonable security features requirement also includes broad standards. But SB-327 offers some clarifications. If the device is subject to authentication outside a local area network, then the law clarifies that reasonable security means the device should contain a unique preprogrammed password or require a user to generate a new means of authentication prior to initial access being granted. For devices without means for authentication outside a local area network, the standard will be industry- and device-specific, recognizing the ever-evolving nature of cybersecurity technologies by requiring features appropriate to the nature of the device and the information it collects. But note that this guidance relates only to the authentication aspect of the device. The remaining requirements of the law still mandate broadly defined reasonable security features beyond just authentication.

State breach notification laws

All 50 states plus two territories and the District of Columbia in the United States have enacted mandatory data breach notification laws. Such laws apply if certain data elements are accessed or acquired by unauthorized parties. In the event of a data security breach, the state laws require data owners to provide written notification to affected individuals. Several states laws require notification to be made within a certain time period and require the notifications to include specific information about the security breach. Approximately half of the states also require notice to a state regulator.

States that require notices to include certain content typically require the notice to individuals to include: (i) the identity of the notifying entity, including contact information; (ii) a description of the incident, including the date it was discovered; (iii) the categories of personal data affected; (iv) steps the individual can take to protect themselves against identity theft; and (v) contact information for the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the national consumer reporting agencies. The majority of state data security breach notification laws also provide a safe harbor from the laws notification requirements if the personal data affected by the security breach was encrypted and the encryption key was not affected by the security breach.

Certain states, such as Maryland, extend the liable parties to those who maintain the data. The Maryland Personal Information Protection Act Amendment (effective October 1, 2019) extends the states existing data breach requirements to personal information maintained by a business in addition to personal information owned or licensed by a business. Those businesses that simply maintain personal data may not charge the owner or licensee a fee for providing the information needed to notify Maryland residents.

State data security laws

Several state laws require data owners to implement reasonable proactive security measures to protect the personal data they collect from their states residents. These laws generally require a data owner to implement reasonable security procedures and practices appropriate to the nature of the information, and to protect the personal data from unauthorized access, destruction, use, modification or disclosure and apply in the context of information maintained about both customers and employees.

New Yorks Stop Hacks and Improve Electronic Data Security Act (the first four provisions went into effect on October 23, 2019, while the last one mandating security requirements goes into effect on March 21, 2020) expands the states current data breach law and imposes affirmative cybersecurity obligations on covered entities. It expands the scope of information subject to the current data breach notification law to include biometric information and email addresses and their corresponding passwords or security questions and answers. Further, it broadens the definition of a data breach to include unauthorized access to private information. It applies the notification requirement to any business with private information of a New York resident, not just to those that conduct business in New York State.

The Maryland Personal Information Protection Act requires businesses to conduct, in good faith, a reasonable and prompt investigation following a data breach to determine the likelihood that personal information of the individual has been or will be misused as a result of the breach.

Massachusetts law requires companies to maintain an preventative incident response plan that addresses how a company would respond to a cybersecurity incident.

Certain states, in addition to requiring an entity to maintain appropriate security measures, extend contractual obligations and liabilities to covered third-party entities. For example, Massachusetts data security regulations require that contracts with third-party service providers should, at a minimum, require the provider to implement and maintain reasonable security procedures and practices appropriate to the nature of the information and to protect the personal data from unauthorized access, destruction, use, modification or disclosure; and require the third-party provider to notify the data owner in the event of a security breach so the data owner can comply with the state data security breach notification requirements.

More and more real estate companies have started adding data protection and privacy provisions to their property management agreements and third party vendor agreements and imposing obligations upon property managers to comply with such regulations and implement appropriate security measures.

The privacy or security practice may be subject to FTCs unfair and deceptive trade practices

At the federal level, the FTC which has trade and regulatory jurisdiction over non-bank financial institutions expects data owners to implement and maintain reasonable security procedures and practices appropriate to the nature of the personal data they collect and to protect the personal data from unauthorized access, destruction, use, modification or disclosure. To this end, the FTC has released a set of guidelines for businesses to follow to better protect consumer privacy and security. In recent years, the FTC has focused more on security measures, emphasizing that companies should take measures to safeguard personal data, maintain cyber response processes, and train on those processes.

For companies security measures, the FTC uses Section 5 of the FTC Acts prohibition on unfair and deceptive trade practices as the basis of enforcement for privacy- and data security-related issues. When alleging that a privacy or security practice is deceptive, the FTC reviews the representations that a company makes (or fails to make) to consumers about its privacy or security practices. A statement is deceptive if there is a representation, omission or practice that is likely to mislead the consumer acting reasonably in the circumstances, to the consumers detriment. Under Section 5 of the FTC Act and the FTCs guidance, a company must provide accurate and complete disclosures to, and for certain practices, obtain consent from, consumers regarding the companys collection, use and disclosure of personal data. The FTC has enforced its guidance against companies that did not follow such guidance or that engaged in practices similar to those found to be unfair or deceptive in prior consent decrees.

In addition to the federal FTC Act, each state has also enacted so-called mini-FTC Acts that provide state regulators with the ability to take actions against unfair and deceptive trade practices, which state regulators use to address privacy and data security related issues.

Getting there

Historically, the three most important concerns in the real estate industry were location, location and location. Now location, data and security is becoming the new norm. Real estate companies can enjoy a competitive advantage in setting up data-driven services, but need to be mindful that data security and privacy will have a decisive impact on the success of their new business models.

The manufacturers and technology companies who design and implement IoT and the building owners and operators who contract with such IoT services in their smart buildings are being called upon to ensure greater transparency and accountability transparency about how occupants data and information is used and accountability for actions to safeguard privacy.

In the coming years, we will see advanced standards for IoT device security and development of system-wide cybersecurity for smart buildings to ensure that all connected devices can communicate securely. We will also see rapid change in the data security and privacy legal landscape that regulates technology companies, owners and operators.

Prudent owners and operators of smart buildings are already taking important and necessary steps in this direction by implementing protocols to safeguard electronic data and enforcing data management guidelines that include clarity on whos managing the data, what the data will be used for, and whether it will be sold to third parties.

But more work remains to be done. Such measures will require a comprehensive implementation strategy adopted by businesses to monitor data flow, enhance security measures, conduct periodic risk evaluations, minimize the collection and sharing of personal data, and prevent unauthorized use of personal and sensitive information. And any such successful strategy will require a systematic mechanism to identify vulnerabilities through the supply chain and reduce the potential for harm to the owners and operators systems.

See the original post:
PropTech in the United States - where we're heading Part 3: Smart buildings - data is the new gold. Keep it secure. - Lexology

Deep energy retrofit can be defined as an energy conservation measure in an existing building, leading to overall improvement in the performance of the building.

It is a whole-building analysis and construction process that aims at achieving on-site energy use minimisation in a building by 50% or more, compared to the baseline energy use calculated through the analysis of utility bills, by making use of latest technologies, materials and good construction practices.

Deep energy retrofit also involves remodelling the building to achieve harmony in energy, indoor air quality, durability, and thermal comfort. An integrated project delivery method is recommended for a deep energy retrofit project.

Deep Retrofit is the significant upgrade of building towards the near zero energy requirement, which is practically feasible and achievable.

By going for deep energy retrofit we can create most value out of investments in the long-term because of the saving potential.

Conventional energy retrofits focus on isolated system upgrades (lighting and HVAC equipment, pumps and motors, ventilation system etc).

These retrofits are generally simple and fast, but they often miss opportunity for saving more energy cost effectively.

Deep energy retrofits require a systems-thinking approach rather than the traditional approach followed for a conventional retrofit.

A systems thinking approach is evaluating the interaction between different isolated components in the building.

For example, Home Performance with Energy Star offers a comprehensive, whole-house approach to improving your homes energy efficiency, comfort and safety while helping to reduce the energy costs by 15%-20%.

In addition to the efficiency measures taken for a building, a deep energy retrofit requires occupants proactive role in energy conservation to understand energy uses in the home, as well as the activities of the occupants.

Most retrofit approaches are considered light because they focus only on upgrading lighting equipment and adding new motors to the heating and cooling systems.

This leaves out bigger savings stemming from deeper measures, like new windows, which can reduce heating and cooling loads to the point where big-dollar value equipments can be reduced in size and cost.

Such interventions are typically not considered because of high up-front cost and perceived higher risk. Those implementing a deep energy retrofit consider all major capital needed in the building over the next several years and plan interventions to this business-as-usual scenario to create higher efficiencies.

Deep energy retrofit can significantly reduce household energy consumption by taking into consideration space heating and cooling, hot water, lighting, appliances and electric loads as part of retrofit.

Studying the utility bills covering at least one year, and preferably more, is a good start and it acts as the base line.

Blower-door testing, Infra-Red imaging and duct-blaster testing offer valuable information about current energy consumption pattern. An assessment of existing conditions of the building envelope is also important.

A deep energy retrofit probably will include changes to the entire building envelope as well as heating and cooling equipment. Moisture must also be carefully managed by adding perimeter drains in the basement.

Exhaust fans in the kitchen and bathroom, or a whole-house ventilation system, where those features are lacking, play critical roles too. Both the site and the structure should be examined with an eye toward adding rooftop- or ground-mounted solar-energy installations, solar hot water collectors, or a wind turbine.

With a sharp reduction in heating and cooling loads it might be possible to downsize or even eliminate some heating and cooling equipment.

Most of the living spaces will be involved in retrofitting, so its important to minimise the disruption by starting from the outside of the house and then moving inside.

Approaching the project from outside also makes it easier to keep the insulation and air barrier continuous. If air leaks in at the bottom of the house, it leaks out at the top, which makes the house cold and drafty in winter.

A poorly insulated roof can also make a house hot in summer. Insulate the slab and walls and provide air sealing.

Replace doors and windows with energy-efficient joinery, and specify glazing based on the houses exposure to the sun. Old windows are like big holes in the walls and often leak both air and water while functioning poorly.

Properly installed, Energy Star (or better) windows seal the holes in the walls to keep out water and weather extremes.

Filling empty wall cavities with cellulose is a cheap, easy, effective way to warm up an old house.

Blowing cellulose into existing wall cavities is an art. In fact, there are now inexpensive ways to check with Infra-Red cameras to make sure that all voids have been filled without disturbing the existing plaster or sheathing on outside walls.

Use high-efficiency mechanical equipment and heat pumps where possible with appropriate controls. Also, provide proper ventilation for combustion equipment.

Replacing window air conditioners/split units, with a central system wherever possible can also save energy right away, as long as the ductwork has been placed in the conditioned space.

Reconfigure plumbing to distribute hot water efficiently with proper insulation of water pipes, and choose a high-efficiency water heater.

All the sanitary wares and fixtures should be chosen as per the Energy Conservation and Building Code guidelines. Use low flow fixtures as far as possible.

Increase natural daylighting wherever it is possible. Install energy-efficient lighting systems and controls. Replace CFL with LED lights of same the luminosity.

Fixtures, appliances, and lighting once you have reduced space conditioning and water-heating loads, the lighting, appliance, and plug load is the next big-ticket energy item.

A new Energy Star refrigerator will use 15% less energy than a standard model. Replacing old light fixtures with LED fixtures helps to lower electricity bills by up to 25%-30%.

Once your energy consumption has been reduced significantly, it becomes reasonable to produce energy at site with systems such as photovoltaics, wind power, hybrid system(wind and solar) or hydro, if you have a water stream nearby.

Until you slash energy usage, though, its not worth the investment in renewable power sources. Conservation is still the cheapest game in town.

One of the most common barriers facing the energy retrofit market is the lack of accountable information and benchmarks to assist energy experts and consultants in creating a clear-cut financial case to demonstrate that investing in energy reduction measures can provide profitable growth.

A few governments/energy research institutes have started taking lead in this field. Deep energy retrofit requires a multi-disciplinary team with a can-do attitude where the disciplines can constructively collaborate with each other.

Design professionals, in particular, should be experienced with integrative design.

In the end I would like to summarise that a successful deep energy retrofit can produce a long-term strategy to phase out energy use in a building to make it super efficient, more desirable to its occupants, and more valuable to owners.

Our endeavour should be to transition from near zero energy buildings to zero energy buildings, and further to energy plus buildings, which will produce surplus energy than what is required in the building.

Reach Ashok by sending an email to ashokjha@universalvoltas.com.

For the latest MEP news from the UAE, Gulf, and around the world, follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn.

Read more:
Studying utility bills covering at least one year, or more, is a good start and it acts as the base line... - MEP MiddleEast

Safe-Dry Carpet Cleaning | Professional Carpet Cleaning

Safe-Dry, a Buford carpet cleaning company, recently created a guide for readers who are looking to remove mold from their carpets.

Greensboro, North Carolina - March 4, 2020 - Safe-Dry, aBuford carpet cleaning company, recently created a guide for readers who are looking for information onhow to remove mold from carpet. In addition to being an unsightly problem, mold can also cause health concerns and should be remediated as soon as possible.

Carpets can get moldy due to the presence of contaminated water, which may occur if a pipe in your home bursts, or if the humidity levels in your home are too high. Mold creates a stain on your carpet, taking away from the beauty of your rooms. It also may cause health concerns, particularly if anyone in your family has trouble breathing. It can lead to asthma attacks, lung infections, and more, making it important to remove quickly. If you notice mold on your carpet, a professional will take the following steps to remediate the issue.

First, a professional carpet cleaner will use a steam cleaner for an initial base cleaning. This prepares the carpet for the next stage of cleaning, during which a deep cleaning solution will be applied to the affected area. This solution needs to sit undisturbed for at least 15 minutes in order for it to soak into the carpet. Following this, the steam cleaner will be used again to remove as much moisture as possible from the carpet. Finally, your carpet cleaner will thoroughly dry the carpet to discourage the mold from reappearing. To maintain your results, carefully monitor the humidity levels in your home, and contact a professional right away if you spot more mold to help prevent its spread.

Though it's possible to clean minor mold incidences yourself, hiring a professional carpet cleaner can save you time and money. It ensures that the job is done correctly the first time and decreases the likelihood of mold remaining in your carpet or reappearing. Safe-Dry uses a proprietary allergy- and child-safe formula for all of its cleaning services, ensuring the health and safety of your family at all times. Speak to the team at Safe-Dry for more information about hiring a professional carpet cleaner for mold removal.

The company can be contacted online athttps://www.1800safedry.com/or by phone at 770-206-7177. Safe-Dry's Buford office is located at 4365 Commerce Drive #6033, Buford, GA 30518.

Media ContactCompany Name: Safe-Dry Carpet CleaningContact Person: Chase HoaglandEmail: Send EmailPhone: 336-560-9630Address:7343 W. Friendly Ave. Suite K City: GreensboroState: North CarolinaCountry: United StatesWebsite: 1800safedry.com

See original here:
How To Remove Mold From Carpet Answered By Buford Carpet Cleaning Company - Press Release - Digital Journal

From a one-man operation that started 40 years ago, Marks Carpet Cleaning now has eight employees and nearly 50 steady customers.

Owner Mark Parsons credits his success to hard work, good people helping him at the right time, excellent employees and some help from God.

Growing up in Wellsboro was challenging for Parsons. His parents split and his father moved away when he was eight years old; he and his siblings were raised by his mother and grandparents.

I was ashamed to go into the nursess office to get my free lunch ticket, afraid that my friends would see me, Parsons said. I said to myself, Someday my kids would never have to do this.

After graduation from Wellsboro High School, he moved to Arizona where his father had a carpet cleaning business.

I knew I was a hard worker, but I had no connections and didnt know what I wanted to do so after graduation I went out, he said.

He learned the carpet cleaning business, but missed home. So, he returned. With nothing to his name except a Ford Fiesta, he decided to borrow money to buy a professional carpet cleaner.

I wanted to start a carpet cleaning business on my own, so my grandma went with me to the bank and signed for me a $500 90-day note to start my own business, Parsons said. I remember going around town trying to get business.

He stopped at Putnam Co. and then president Fred Smith asked him to clean a carpet in an apartment above the natural food store. Do the work whenever, Smith told the young entrepreneur; Parsons completed the job the same day.

Actions like that and his work ethic made an impression. He still works for the owners of Putnam Co. and cleaned every Acorn Market on a monthly basis for 15 years.

His promise to himself fueled his drive those early years. He would start to clean the convenience stores at 11 p.m., work all night, grab a couple hours of sleep before going to his day clients.

Private clients also helped him through those early years. Grace Bair hired Parsons to clean her garage every Friday, then added indoor cleaning before introducing him to a new venture: steam cleaning furniture. She also introduced him to others in the community.

Grace Bair was someone I truly admired and owed a lot to when I started out, Parsons said.

The business grew slowly. The turning point came when two local banks asked him in the same week to take on big cleaning jobs. His company wasnt big enough to do both, leaving him with a dilemma.

Here I am, my golden opportunity, and I didnt know what to do, he said.

The answer came through prayer. He accepted the offer from First Citizens Community Bank to clean five banks each week.

Parsons worked alone for several years before hiring his first employee. He now employs eight people, who usually begin the work day around 4 a.m.

His son, Patrick, still works for the company and is planning to take it over some day. Paula, his wife, does book work, orders supplies and provides support. Hes also had his brothers, Lonny and Gary, and two other sons, Tyler and Taylor, work for him.

I have been so blessed to have great help and my help has been with me a long time. I would not trade any one of them, he said. They all have old-school work ethics and take pride in their work and the finished product.

Having started as a specialist in carpet cleaning, Parsons expanded by branching into janitorial work, which provides a year-round basis of work. Hes also added power washing for the exterior of houses, tile cleaning, window washing, upholstery cleaning and full house cleaning.

The Lord has definitely blessed our business in abundance, Parsons said. I remember the years when I worried about the days when we didnt have a job to do, but the phone would always ring and God provided.

Parsons doesnt see his story as unusual, and offers encouragement to others who may have been dealt a tough hand.

For everyone out there who has been dealt a bad deck of cards, all you need is the determination and willpower, he said. Whatever life gives you, if you want something in life, you can do it.

The goal of the Gazettes feature, Every person has a story, is to find and celebrate the many stories that would otherwise go unnoticed. If you know someone who has a story or would like to share your story, contact the Gazette at 570-724-2287 or email gazette@tiogapublishing.com.

Here is the original post:
Every Person Has a Story: Mark Parsons built cleaning business from carpet up - The Wellsboro Gazette

The historic renovation at 1201 Keo Way includes bringing back the original storefront.(Photo: MA Architecture/Special to the Register)

The former Reliable Rug Co. on Des Moines' Keosauqua Way may soon havenew life as a retail and office buildingunder a planned $4.8 million historic renovation.

West Des Moines-based Aust Real Estate hopes to start a rehabilitation ofthe diagonal structurethis spring, reopening it as commercial offices and retail space in 2021. The building, with its boarded-up windows and storefronts and crumbling brick, is part of the gateway into downtown Des Moines one of the most traveled streets downtown and an area where development efforts have focused over the last seven years.

Built between 1910 and 1928, the building at 1201 Keo Way actually a grouping of four connected structuresknown as the Ferrington Blockhas been vacant for decades. Several developers have proposed projects therebut none have gone as far as Aust Real Estate's plans, said Ryan Moffatt, the city's economic development coordinator.

"I personally can't think of a better candidate for historic renovation downtown," Moffatt said. " ...We're thrilled with the continued interest in the reuse of this building."

The building sits at a diagonal, modified in 1920 when Keosauqua Way was constructed directly through it. A portion of the building was removed to accommodate the street.

A current view of 1201 Keo Way.(Photo: Polk County Assessor/Special to the Register)

It was home to the Reliable Rug and Carpet Cleaning Co. until the companyclosed in the mid-1980s. Ferrington Block is named after the company's longtimeowner, Emma Owens Ferrington, who was widely known as one of the city's most accomplished businesswomen.

She took over ownership of the rug business when her husband died in 1899. Ferrington moved the business from Fort Des Moines on the city's south side to Keo Way when the building was constructed.

"Three generations of women ran this thing and grew it at time when it was not the best time to be a female business owner," said Matt Aust, who owns Aust Real Estate with his wife, Mindy Aust, the project's architect. "It's a fascinating property."

The Austs plan to restore the boarded-up windows and storefronts along Keo Way and 12th Street, put back an original skylight and install historically relevant carriage doors.

A landscaped terrace will occupy the corner of Keo Way and Crocker Street, where the team is considering an outdoor cafe.

They envision leasing the space for offices or retail, and could accommodate restaurants, too. An apartment is planned for the southernmost corner of the second floor, where the space had been used as living quarterssince the buildingopened.

The renovation will include an upgrade of the building's mechanical and HVAC systems, all-new windows, construction of a new elevator and asbestos removal.

"We're super excited to bring it back to its creative significance," Mindy Aust said.

Aust Real Estate is working with the State Historic Preservation Office for historic state and federal tax credits. Des Moines has agreed to give the developers a tax increment financing package equal to about $505,000 of the project's costs.

The old Reliable Rug building at 1201 Keo Way is getting a historic rehab.(Photo: Genus Landscape Architects/Special to the Register)

Given the lot'sconfiguration, the city believes it would be nearly impossible to build something new there, making a historic rehabilitation with financial assistance the best option.

"The site is located on a highly visible and prominent gateway into downtown," Moffatt wrote in a memo to the Urban Design Review Board, which approved the project on Tuesday. "Getting the building rehabilitated and put back into productive use will make significant progress with cleaning up the Keo Way corridor, and will help stabilize a corner that would otherwise be very difficult to redevelop due to the unique shape and limited lot land area of the site."

The building is assessed at $90,700 and is expected to increase to about $1.3 million when the project is complete.

A billboard located on the roof will remain it has a lease until 2036.

More: See inside the new Cityview 34 townhomes at I-235 and Keo Way

Kim Norvell covers growth and development for the Register. Reach her at knorvell@dmreg.com or 515-284-8259. Follow her on Twitter @KimNorvellDMR.

Your subscription makes work like this possible. Subscribe today at DesMoinesRegister.com/Deal.

Read or Share this story: https://www.desmoinesregister.com/story/money/business/development/2020/03/03/des-moines-iowa-development-historic-renovation-reliable-rug-company-keo-way/4871026002/

See the article here:
New angle: Diagonal Keo Way building that housed Reliable Rug Co. getting $4.8 M facelift - Des Moines Register

But airplanes are still flying, and travelers still traveling, albeit with extra bottles of hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes in carry-ons.

Still, as you board the aircraft and sit in your seat, you might find yourself reconsidering inflight hygiene -- and wondering just how thoroughly the aircraft's actually been cleaned before you boarded.

Normal cleaning procedure

Christian Rooney is the manager of JetWash Aero, a specialist aviation cleaning company based in the UK that's tasked with turning around aircraft between flights.

Rooney tells CNN Travel that the cleaning process varies depending on the schedule of the aircraft in question.

When aircraft downtime is very limited, some of what Rooney calls the "very straightforward cleaning," such as removing old newspapers and passenger trash, will be done by the cabin crew at the end of the previous flight.

"A basic but more thorough cabin clean is usually carried out at night -- or when there is more downtime -- and it includes the cleaning of toilets, wiping down and disinfecting of trays, cleaning galleys, [overhead bins], seats etc. This may take up to an hour or longer," explains Rooney.

"An airline will also always schedule a 'deep interior clean' every month or six weeks. This clean takes several hours and is extremely thorough."

Cleaning products and disinfectants are approved by aircraft manufacturers, says Rooney.

"Some of the disinfectants we use are effective against a wide range of pathogens and are known to inactivate complex viruses with similar properties to SARS, E. coli, avian flu, MRSA etc," he adds.

These offer antimicrobial protection for up to 10 days, he says.

Stephanie Biron, a recently retired flight attendant who used to work for American Airlines, tells CNN Travel that, in her experience, standards of aircraft cleaning would vary.

"A lot of times you come on and it's not terribly satisfactory, but you have to rely on the individuals doing their jobs, because that's what they've been paid to do," she says.

"Sometimes you come on and you have to go out and tell the agent, 'look, the plane looks terrible. We need somebody to come on and redo it.' It just varies all the time. Sometimes you come on in the morning and they deep cleaned the whole thing, or at least they told you they have."

On January 20, a masked traveler arrives in Kiev after flying in from China.

SERGEI SUPINSKY/AFP via Getty Images

Passenger personal hygiene

Some airlines have requested additional measures due to the current climate, says Rooney.

"We have seen an uptick in the requirements and levels of disinfection, spraying and fumigation of the cabin, as the airlines look to address concerns over the coronavirus," he explains.

But Dr. William Schaffner, a professor of medicine in Vanderbilt University's division of infectious diseases, says that he doesn't think there's much more carriers can do to prevent the spread of coronavirus.

Because transmission most often occurs person to person, the inanimate environment of the airplane isn't really the problem, says Schaffner.

It's still wise, he says, to wipe down surfaces -- but ultimately it's handwashing that is the most important preventative step.

"Even if there is virus in the inanimate environment, it's not going to jump off the seat and bite you in the ankle. You've got to touch it, and then touch your nose or your mouth," Schaffner explains.

"So it's those hands we have that are the important intermediary -- and that's where I would put the emphasis. Use those wipes on your hands. That's the important thing."

Dr Paulo Alves, who is currently attending IATA's Aviation Resilience Health workshop in Singapore -- which is working to address the overall impact of COVID-19 -- agrees with Schaffner.

"The most effective, simple measure vacationers should implement is to wash hands frequently with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, hand sanitizer should be used," says Alves.

"It seems reasonable to wipe the tray table surface, where it is more likely for droplets to land after someone coughs or sneezes. Travelers should maintain good personal hygiene on board flights, before flights and after flights and avoid touching their face."

Travel medicine specialist Richard Dawood agrees, and says this advice stretches to navigating airports too. "Remain aware of where your hands have been," he says.

Former flight attendant Biron also expresses concern not just for passengers -- but for air crew. They're just as likely to get sick, she points out, or feel pressured to still fly while unwell.

Airlines for America, the aviation group that represents North American carriers, says airlines are working closely with federal authorities -- and tells CNN Travel that the safety and security of passengers and crew "is -- and always will be -- the top priority of US carriers."

"I really don't think [airlines] can do very much. They might make the wipes more available to individuals," says Schaffner.

Airline response

Aircraft are cleaned on the ground, between flights.

Spencer Platt/Getty Images

So what are airlines doing differently right now?

Brian Parrish, spokesman for Southwest Airlines, tells CNN Travel that Southwest aircraft undergo "regular cleanings between flights and a comprehensive cleaning when aircraft are parked overnight."

"Our cleaning program includes the disinfecting of all hard surfaces within the cabin, as well as seat and carpet cleaning," he says. "Southwest will continue to monitor and follow all guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and World Health Organization regarding the coronavirus and make any adjustments to our procedures, as necessary."

Curtis Blessing, an American Airlines spokesperson, echos Parrish.

"Our aircraft, including lavatories, are cleaned on a regular basis, and the depth of the cleaning varies depending on turn times and type of flying," he says. "Lavatories are cleaned, floors are spot cleaned and visible trash is removed from seat pockets on all flights."

Transcontinental, Hawaii and international flights see a deeper level of cleaning, Blessing adds.

Meanwhile, a Qantas spokesperson tells CNN Travel that the airline adopts "the highest standard in cleaning and disinfecting our cabins, seats, galleys and washrooms."

The spokesperson also highlights the HEPA filters which are part of the air conditioning system. "These filters are used in hospital operating theaters, with air in the cabin replaced every three to five minutes. This provides much cleaner air than other public spaces like trains, restaurants, shopping centers and offices."

Fogging is being used on all trans-Pacific Delta flights arriving into the US, with plans to expand those procedures to more inbound international flights, focusing on flights coming from places with reported coronavirus cases. Fogging has been taking place on all inbound Delta flights from Italy to New York-JFK and Atlanta since February 29.

Hong Kong airline Cathay Pacific tells CNN Travel that aircraft cabin cleaning is always carried out to "high standards" -- but some extra precautions are currently in place.

"Out of an abundance of caution, aircraft will be taken out of service to perform extensive additional deep cleaning and supplementary disinfection when a confirmed case of coronavirus has been identified," says a Cathay Pacific spokesperson.

"This includes the replacement of all seat covers, disinfection of all surfaces and galley equipment, detailed cleaning of the lavatories, disinfection of carpets, sterilization of the water system and replacement of air filters in addition to standard cleaning procedures."

Cathay Pacific has also temporarily suspended hot towels, pillows, blankets, magazines and in-flight duty-free on flights to and from destinations in mainland China.

Still, Schaffner says panicked passengers shouldn't feel they need to avoid using in-flight blankets or pillows if they are provided on their flight. There's "no good data" to support the idea they're responsible for transmission, he says.

"It's a consideration that comes logically to the mind, but it's difficult to convince people that they're really low risk. I always come back to the intermediate vehicle [which is] your hands. Do a lot of good hand-sanitizing."

Alves agrees, pointing out that viruses will be eliminated when blankets and pillows are washed. However, he does clarify that there are "knowledge gaps" about the COVID-19 virus and research is ongoing, so recommendations may change.

Staying vigilant

So if you're boarding a flight soon, stocking up on hand sanitizer is the best move. Is there anything else to be done?

Schaffner notes that, from the passengers' point of view, the ultimate way to avoid infections on aircraft is to stay home.

"And there will come a time perhaps -- and some of that is happening already -- where we are being urged to social distance ourselves," he says. "People are reconsidering whether they wish to fly at the moment."

Richard Dawood stresses the important of airlines following the CDC's guidance, but he stresses that travelers should still make up their own mind on whether they should fly:

"Perhaps the most important point to keep in mind is that not a single case of COVID-19 has yet been attributed to on-board transmission," he says.

CNN's Katia Hetter, Channon Hodge and Marnie Hunter contributed to this report

Read the original here:
What airlines are doing to sanitize planes - CNN

By: Oxi Fresh | 1Shares 19Reads

March 02, 2020 // Franchising.com // LAKEWOOD, Colo. - Oxi Fresh Carpet Cleaning, which ranks among the nations greenest and fastest-growing carpet-cleaning franchises, has announced the launch of a new location that will service the greater Central and East Texas areas.

This new Oxi Fresh franchise will offer green cleanings to Temple, Belton, Killeen, Hutto, Bastrop, Bryan, Tyler and Longview, among others. Local owner Jarred Thomas is opening his location for business at the beginning of March.

I was looking for an opportunity where I could work for myself and be independent, said Thomas. After learning about Oxi Fresh and meeting with corporate, I became more and more impressed by the business model. Its a perfect fit with what Im looking for and I cant wait to begin serving these communities.

Prior to opening his Oxi Fresh Carpet Cleaning business, Thomas spent 26 years in the public safety industry, where he served as a director of emergency management. During his tenure as director, Thomas was responsible for directing all aspects of an emergency management program and keeping protocols in place for preparing responses to disasters. He plans to use that management experience to help his Oxi Fresh business grow.

I think my past experience in management will greatly aid me in growing my Oxi Fresh business, stated Thomas. Oxi Fresh is an industry leading concept that utilizes innovative technology to provide a high quality clean. The brand has a proven record of success and I am excited to be part of the Oxi Fresh family.

Oxi Fresh is one of the nations greenest carpet cleaning franchises and has over 400 locations across the United States and Canada. The brand utilizes an oxygen-powered cleaning process to provide a deep and thorough clean that dries in about an hour. Oxi Fresh uses about two gallons of water to clean a home, compared to the 40-60 gallons traditional steam cleaners use. Since 2006, the brand estimates that it has saved tens of millions of gallons of water due to its oxygenated cleaning process.

To contact Oxi Fresh, visit: http://www.oxifresh.com

Through innovative products and modern technology, Oxi Fresh Carpet Cleaning offers green cleanings and incredible results through a unique, low-moisture process. Oxi Fresh has been ranked in Entrepreneur magazine's Franchise 500, featured in Inc. magazine's Inc. 500|5000, and has been recognized as one of Americas Best Franchises to Buy, by Forbes magazine. Oxi Fresh has more than 400 locations throughout the United States and Canada with more locations currently in development. For more information, visit http://www.oxifresh.com.

Charlie JonesFranchise Elevator PR(O) 847-239-8171CJones@franchiseelevator.com

SOURCE Oxi Fresh Carpet Cleaning

###

Original post:
Oxi Fresh Brings Green Cleaning to Central and East Texas - Franchising.com

With the spread of coronavirus, travelers are approaching local airports with increased trepidation.

But for the staff at these travel hubs, with a few precautions, it's mostly business as usual.

The new coronavirus, formally known as COVID-19, has spread to more than 60 countries since originating in China. It's infectedmore than 90,000 people as of Tuesday, according to the World Health Organization. According to WHO,the virusis harder to spread than than flu but causes more severe illness. Right now there are no vaccines to prevent it.

Health officials in communities across the country and the globe are working to contain the respiratory illness at the direction of the WHO.

Coronavirus is spread through person-to-person contact, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. It can be spread through close proximity within six feet to people who are sick, through sneezing and coughing, according to the CDC.

However, officials are optimistic about containing the spread of the virus here and globally.

It can be contained which is why we must do everything we can to contain it, said WHOs Director-General Tedros Adhanom.

Flights from Boston Logan International Airport to mainland China have been canceled, and other international routes have been disrupted as the virus spreads. No domestic routes have been affected at press time.

At Boston Logan International Airport, Cathay Pacific has also limited flights to Hong Kong, according Samantha Decker, spokeswoman for Massachusetts Port Authority.

At the airport Massport staff have been in regular contact with city, state, and federal public health officials. We are cooperating fully with those partners, including the CDC, and are prepared to provide additional support as necessary, according to a Massport statement.

As of Tuesday, the United States has issued warnings to six international locations because of coronavirus, with advice ranging from usingcaution to avoiding nonessential travel, according to the CDCs website.

The CDC advises Americans not to visit China, Iran, Italy or South Korea because of widespread transmission. Foreign internationals from China and Iran are also not being allowed into the United States.

The CDC recommends that older adults or those who have chronic medical conditions consider postponing travel to Japan, which has ongoing community transmission. The CDC also urges travelers to Hong Kong to use caution, but there is only limed community transmission at this time, according to the CDC.

According to Massport, public health officials continue to say that the risk of coronavirus in Boston is very low. Still, Logan is taking precautions at the airport to prevent the spread of the disease here.

"We have been following proper cleaning and disinfecting protocols in our public facilities, installed additional hand sanitizer dispensers at key locations and recorded a new public service announcement to remind passengers and employees to use good health practices such as washing hands regularly, and covering coughs and sneezes, according to a statement.

Up north at Manchester-Boston Regional airport, there are no international flights. The airports website doesnt advise of any disruptions, and there are no statements about coronavirus.

One of the airports largest carriers, Southwest, has not suspended any scheduled flights or routes due to the coronavirus, according to a statement from the company.

We will continue to monitor and follow all guidance from the Centers for Disease Control regarding the coronavirus and make any adjustments to our operations or procedures, as necessary, according to the statement.

Southwest aircrafts undergo regular cleanings between flights and a comprehensive cleaning when aircrafts are parked overnight, the statement said. Our cleaning program includes the disinfecting of all hard surfaces within the cabin, as well as seat and carpet cleaning.

As the virus changes and more people get it, local travel agent Jo Toscano said, its important people check in with the companies providing services like airlines and tours for the latest updates.

The (traveler) should be in contact with everyone they are traveling with, she said. Its very complicated and every company is different. Every case is different be it an airline ticket or tour.

Continued here:
Airports take steps to prevent spread of COVID-19 - Eagle-Tribune

The fitting rooms at Rent the Runway's flagship store in New York City.

Source: Rent the Runway

Rent the Runway is assuring its customers that its cleaning practices "are designed to kill viruses such as the common cold and flu," in the midst of a deadly outbreak of a new type of coronavirus.

The clothing and accessories rental platform said in an email to users Wednesday afternoon that although scientific information is still developing, it has "no reason to believe" its cleaning practices are ineffective against COVID-19, which has taken at least 11 lives in the U.S.

The company rents out women's clothing, such as dresses, blazers and denim, which is worn and then returned to be washed and worn again by other users. It also rents out accessories, like purses, and home goods, like pillows.

Rent the Runway is telling its customers "there is currently no evidence that COVID-19 can be transmitted from soft surfaces like fabric or carpet," to people.

As the coronavirus spreads, sick people are being advised to stay home. Tips to stay healthy include remembering to frequently wash your hands in hot, soapy water and to avoid touching your face.

The outbreak is a new challenge for companies like Rent the Runway, which make up the so-called sharing economy. It may raise questions among consumers about who else has touched Rent the Runway's clothes before, and have those items been properly cleared.

Rent the Runway explained that all of its merchandise, once returned, goes through either a wet or dry cleaning process.

The company explained in its memo to customers: "They also go through an additional steaming process which heats items to between 248F and 302F with the exception of faux fur, select outerwear, leather and faux leather garments, which still go through our standard cleaning processes. According to the CDC, flu viruses are killed by heat above 167F. Every garment is then enclosed in plastic for protection and cleanliness, which we ask customers to return for recycling."

The company also said all of its accessories, including handbags, sunglasses and jewelry, are cleaned with alcohol and disinfectant.

Rent the Runway was named toCNBC's 2019 Disruptor 50 list.

Here is the full memo sent to Rent the Runway sent customers:

In light of developments regarding COVID-19, we want to proactively provide details and additional transparency around our cleaning processes.

First, according to Harvard Health, there is currently no evidence that COVID-19 can be transmitted from soft surfaces like fabric or carpet to humans. In addition, our cleaning agents and practices are designed to kill viruses such as the common cold and flu. While scientific information is still developing, we have no reason to believe that our processes are ineffective against COVID-19.

The teams in our fulfillment centers will continue to use a variety of techniques to ensure that each garment is thoroughly cleaned, steamed and pressed, inspected for quality, and carefully packaged so that it arrives ready to wear. All garments go through a wet or dry cleaning process. They also go through an additional steaming process which heats items to between 248F and 302F with the exception of faux fur, select outerwear, leather and faux leather garments, which still go through our standard cleaning processes. According to the CDC, flu viruses are killed by heat above 167F. Every garment is then enclosed in plastic for protection and cleanliness, which we ask customers to return for recycling.

In addition, all of our reusable garment bags and accessories are thoroughly cleaned after every use. Sunglasses and jewelry are cleaned with alcohol, and handbags and accessories packaging are cleaned with disinfectant after they are returned to us.

Our customers have always been our number one priority. We will continue to monitor the data and recommendations from the CDC and WHO and update our practices as needed. Please visit our FAQs for any additional questions.

See the original post:
Rent the Runway assures customers it is cleaning its clothes, amid coronavirus outbreak - CNBC