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Contents DEPARTMENTS
14 IN THE DETAILS: 2024 TOYOTA TACOMA 16 HEALTH: OSHA’S 2024 REGULATORY AGENDA 26 IN THE FIELD: DECODING THE MOLD CONUNDRUM 28 HOME CHECK: FIREPLACE FUEL 38 HOME IMPROVEMENT: HOW TO DEAL WITH A BAT INFESTATION 46 ESSENCE: OPTIMAL HORMONAL BALANCE 48 ENVIRONMENTAL: EXERCISE EQUIPMENT DANGERS 50 SIPS: THE GENTLEMAN’S COCKTAIL 52 EVENTS: IEB’S FALL MASTERMIND 2023
FEATURES
32 SPOTLIGHT
20 INSPECTIONS
MARK HUMMEL
INSPECTING LOG HOMES
TRANSFORMING THE INDUSTRY’S BUSINESS PRACTICES
40 ESCAPES BELIZE
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR VANESSA C. GUZMAN
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Carlos Martin Castro Nick Gromicko Mark Hummel Greg Johns Kenton Shepard Kate Tarasenko RESEARCH Nestor Mann Editorial Research
ADVERTISING AND MARKETING Gabriel Veloso Web Developer Vinicius Veloso Marketing Director BUSINESS Matthew Adams Chief Financial Officer Leah Castello Vice President of Operations Amber Rose Controller Susannah Sookoo Administrative Assistant
Stuart Mills Project Manager TECHNOLOGY PHOTOGRAPHY / VISUALS
Philip J. Augustyne Director of Technology
James Acquaroli Photographer Nelson Randall Senior Photo Editor WEB Karlina Watson Digital Production Manager Sharon Saban Production Coordinator SOCIAL MEDIA Carolina G. Garcia Social Media Manager
PRODUCTION Naomi Callaghan Special Events Manager Ernie Clair Production Assistant DISTRIBUTION & CIRCULATION Daniel Marr Distributing Manager Jose Avrett Circulation Manager
THINKMAGAZINE.US © 2024 THINK Magazine. All contents are protected by copyright and may not be reproduced without written consent from the publisher. The advertiser is solely responsible for ad content and holds publisher harmless from any errors and/or any trademark or copyright infringement.
SUPERIOR SERVICE
: IN THE DETAILS
ALL-NEW 2024
TOYOTA TACOMA IS ADVENTURE READY OUT OF THE BOX
T
he Toyota Tacoma has dominated the mid-size pickup truck segment for nearly two decades, and the all-new 2024 Tacoma aims
to set a new standard for modern trucks. Completely redesigned and reimagined for model year 2024, the Tacoma is ready to help drivers tackle their ambitious adventure
“This truck offers customers more of everything, including technology, style and capability, all with an attractive starting MSRP. This is a segment Toyota has carried for years, and we feel this next iteration of Tacoma only raises the bar.”
history of quality, durability and reliability – while incorporating modern tech, rugged styling and go-anywhere capability.
“Our engineers outdid themselves with this nextgeneration Tacoma,” said Dave Christ, Toyota group vice president and general manager. 14
THI NKM AGAZI NE. U S
overall ride and handling for a new Tacoma for excellent on- or off-road manners. The new Tacoma also diversifies its powertrain choices, with two options that improve both power and efficiency. The turbocharged i-FORCE 2.4-liter engine produces up to 278 horsepower and 317 lb.-ft. of torque. The available i-FORCE MAX hybrid is a showstopper, producing up to 326
bucket lists. For this new generation of Tacoma, Toyota engineers focused on its rich
most grades, this new suspension improves
For 2024, Tacoma is completely redesigned from the ground up. Built on the TNGA-F global truck platform shared with Tundra, Sequoia and Land Cruiser, the allnew Tacoma was designed and engineered specifically for the U.S. market. Constructed from a high-strength boxed, steel-ladder frame, it adds numerous features that offroad enthusiasts will love. One leap forward for the new generation Tacoma is a fully redesigned coil spring multi-link rear suspension. Available on
horsepower and a massive 465 lb.-ft. of torque, the most torque in the mid-size truck segment. The all-new 2024 i-FORCE Tacomas are expected to arrive at Toyota dealerships in December of 2023, with i-FORCE MAX models expected to arrive in the spring of 2024. Tacoma offers superior performance at an incredible value with a starting Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price of just $31,500*. MSRP for i-FORCE MAX models will be announced closer to the on-sale date.
Toyota’s Michigan-based engineering team had a simple mantra for the all-new Tacoma: “Badass adventure machine.” This theme set the tone for the design, features, and capability of what is now the 2024 Tacoma.
All 2024 Tacoma models come standard with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, Toyota’s suite of active safety and convenience systems. New-to-Tacoma TSS enhancements are made possible by system sensors with improved detection capability. This suite of features includes: • Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection • Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist • Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control • Lane Tracing Assist • Road Sign Assist • Automatic High Beams Proactive Driving Assist From styling to features, each Tacoma model is purposefully designed by Toyota engineers to have unique characteristics. The truck now features suspensions tuned specifically to each grade. TRD Sport has red TRD sport-tuned shocks for a more responsive feel for road-hugging curves,
Tacoma will offer a robust color palette that includes Supersonic Red, Blue Crush Metallic, Underground, Wind Chill Pearl, Solar Octane, Celestial Silver Metallic, Black, Ice Cap and Bronze Oxide. A new TRD Pro-exclusive color for the 2024 model year is Terra.
while the TRD Off-Road grade features monotube Bilstein remote reservoir shocks that are well suited to rough off-road adventures thanks to the extended wheel travel and greater heat dissipation. Each Bilstein shock on TRD Off-Road grades also include an end stop control valve (ESCV) that provides increased damping force as the suspension comes closer to full bound stroke. The 2024 Tacoma also comes with ToyotaCare, a plan covering normal factoryscheduled maintenance, for two years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first, and 2 years, unlimited mileage of Roadside Assistance. FIND OUT MORE AT TOYOTA.COM T HIN KMAGAZINE.US
15
: HEALTH
OSHA’S 2024 REGULATORY AGENDA BY CARLOS MARTIN CASTRO | SPECIALIST IN HEALTH, SAFETY & ENVIRONMENT
B
eginning in January 2024, employers in specific high-hazard industries will be required to submit detailed information regarding recordable workplace injuries and illnesses using OSHA’s new filing system called the Injury Tracking Application (ITA). New Requirement: Establishments with 100 or
16
T H I NKM AGAZI NE. U S
more employees in designated high-hazard industries must electronically submit detailed information about each recordable injury and illness entered on their previous calendar year’s OSHA Form 300 Log and Form 301 Incident Report. The ITA will start accepting 2023 injury and illness data on January 2, 2024. The due date
to complete the submission is March 2, 2024, and the submission requirement is annual. The data that must be submitted includes the date, physical location, and severity of the injury or illness, details about the worker who was injured, and details of how the injury or illness occurred. Much of the information submitted
will be posted on OSHA’s public website. It is estimated that more than 52,000 employers must start complying with the new rule. OSHA estimates that these employers will submit information on more than 750,000 injury and illness cases annually. Fewer than one percent of establishments in the country will be required to submit this
additional data. However, the data submitted by those establishments will comprise approximately 30 percent of all reportable occupational injuries and illnesses. OSHA’s regulatory action is pending a review of comments collected by the industry. This list includes:
1.
PPE in Construction: OSHA announced a rule to revise the personal protective equipment standard in the construction industry to explicitly require that all PPE must fit employees properly.
2.
Infectious Diseases: OSHA is seeking to protect employees across a range of industries from exposure to infectious pathogens that can cause significant disease.
3.
Communication Tower Climbing Safety: The demand for broadband is creating a growing workforce that works at heights to install and maintain communications infrastructure.
4.
Emergency Response: OSHA is looking to update and reorganize the various requirements for emergency response.
5.
Tree care: Arborists are calling for a new OSHA subsection that would cover all hazards found in this industry: falls, hearing protection, eye protection, and more.
6.
Emphasis Program Regarding Warehouse and Distribution Center Operations: Centers pose serious safety and health hazards that could result in death or serious physical harm. These hazards include struck-by hazards, caught-in-between hazards, slips, trips, and fall hazards, blocked aisles, means of egress, powered industrial vehicles, and other material handling equipment, heat hazards, and ergonomic hazards. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is a federal agency in the United States that sets and enforces workplace safety and health regulations. The semiannual regulatory agenda outlines the agency’s plans for developing and issuing new regulations, as well as reviewing and revising existing ones. This article is intended to present an overview of current legal trends, not representing advice. To get the most upto-date information on OSHA’s regulatory agenda for 2024, I recommend visiting the official OSHA website. T HIN KMAGAZINE.US
17
• • • • • • •
: INSPECTIONS
INSPECTING LOG HOMES WHEN THE TIME COMES TO INSPECT A LOG HOME, MANY HOME INSPECTORS DON’T EVEN KNOW WHAT THEY DON’T KNOW. IN OTHER WORDS, THEY DON’T KNOW WHAT INFORMATION THEY LACK. GOING INTO AN INSPECTION OF A HOME NOT REALIZING THAT YOU ARE NOT QUALIFIED TO INSPECT IT IS A BAD POSITION FOR YOU TO BE IN. LOG HOMES HAVE SOME CHARACTERISTICS THAT ARE VERY DIFFERENT FROM CONVENTIONAL HOMES, AND IT’S CRUCIAL FOR HOME INSPECTORS TO UNDERSTAND THEM. BY NICK GROMICKO, CMI® AND KENTON SHEPARD
SETTLING Settling is the loss of wall height over time. It’s one of the major concerns for a log home. Let’s look at some of the causes and consequences of settling. Moisture Log homes may be built from green logs, which are recently cut logs with a high moisture content. Or they may be built using logs that have been kilndried so that their moisture content is no higher than 19%. Some log homes may have been built using logs with a moisture 20
THI NKM AGAZI NE. US
content somewhere between these two extremes. Moisture content is important because as long as logs continue to lose bound water—which is the water contained in the wood’s cell material, as opposed to the water in the cell cavities -- the logs will continue to shrink in diameter. When logs shrink, the log walls settle, which will result in a loss of height. In a home built with green logs, it’s possible for an 8-foot-tall wall to lose 6 inches in height by the time the home has finished settling. When a home has stopped settling, we
say it has reached “equilibrium moisture content” (EMC) with its environment. Allowances must be made during construction of log homes to accommodate the inevitable process of settling because a variety of components can be affected. Gabled Ends If the home has a gable roof, and the gables are built using green logs, the gable wall will settle as the logs dry. Typically, in framing a gable roof, the ends of the ridge are supported by the gabled wall at each end of the
roof. If that wall is losing height because the logs are settling, what’s happening to each end of the ridge? If the ridge is securely fastened to the logs, roof connections are going to be stressed until some roof or wall framing component breaks or becomes disconnected. These are both bad events. Which component breaks or where the disconnection happens will vary depending on how the home is built. Doors and Windows If walls are going to lose height, what’s going to happen to the
rate as the logs themselves. This might be a fence or an architectural feature of some sort. It’s a common condition. Plumbing Pipes and Rigid Conduit In homes of two stories and more, plumbing pipes and rigid conduit that are installed vertically will accumulate stress as log walls settle. There are ways to accommodate settling. Using slip joints and coils are two methods for overcoming this problem. Flexible copper tubing is sometimes used instead of rigid copper pipe. It’s also possible to see the methods and materials used, but sometimes you must make an educated guess. Remember to disclaim anything you can’t see. Screw Jacks In order to accommodate settling, log homes sometimes use screw jacks, which must be adjusted occasionally. Screw jacks are often hidden behind trim, so you have to know where to look for them. Posts that support porch roofs and lofts are common places to find screw jacks. They may be installed at the top or bottom of a post.
doors and windows? Will they stick or break? If the contractor understands log homes, the doors and windows will have a settling space above them so that the weight of the wall will not bear on the doors or windows. The settling space is typically covered with trim which is installed in such a way that it can slide as settling takes place. A newer home built with green logs that has no settling space installed above the doors and windows is a big problem. An inspector who fails to notice this condition would be making a major, major miss. Staircases As walls lose height, anything connected to them also loses height. If a staircase rests on a floor at the bottom and, at the same time, is attached to a landing or to floor joists that are losing height as the walls settle, after a while, the treads will no longer be level. There are several ways to
WOOD DECAY Runoff Most home inspectors are familiar with wood decay. Design features that direct runoff onto log walls, especially log extensions at outside corners, will encourage the development of decay. This is decay you can see because it usually appears as dark discoloration. It happens first at log extensions because the exposed end-grain absorbs moisture faster than the rest of the log’s surface. Lower wall logs are also at risk, since they can be soaked by splashback during rain and are less protected by the roof overhang. Hidden Decay A situation that can cause big trouble for inspectors is decay that is not visible because it’s inside the log. Log homes can be destroyed in this manner with very little visible decay. A common scenario is that the home is located in a region with high humidity. If an impermeable finish coating is applied to log exteriors while the interior log moisture content is high enough to allow decay to take place, that moisture
correct this, but you have to know enough to look for it. Partition Walls Partition walls in log homes are typically framed conventionally. This means that although the log walls will settle, the partition walls will not. If the partition walls are framed from floor to ceiling, as they would be in a conventional home, something bad will happen as the settling log walls transfer weight to the partition walls that were not designed to bear weight. The stress will build until the weakest component fails. The intersections of conventional walls and log walls must be framed using methods that will allow the log walls to settle while the conventional walls stay put. Failure to use a connection method that will accommodate different settling rates can cause ugly problems. This is also true for other portions of the home that intersect the log walls but don’t settle at the same T HIN KMAGAZINE.US
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: INSPECTIONS
will be trapped inside the log and decay will continue as long as there is adequate moisture in the wood. Most inspectors will not be able to determine the condition of log interiors, although there are ways to do this. Inspectors living in areas where this condition is possible should know enough about the potential for this problem to disclaim log interiors. Finish Coatings Logs become deteriorated by weather. Finish coatings are designed to protect log surfaces from UV damage and excessive checking caused by log drying. Some coatings also prevent attack by some wooddestroying insects. You don’t have to identify the coating, but you do need to know enough to spray the logs with water to see if it beads on the surface or is absorbed by the wood. Absorption means a failed finish coating. Finish coatings don’t last as long as they used to because the EPA has placed limitations on the use of some environmentally toxic products that also happened to protect logs from weather well. Wood-Destroying Insects Wood-destroying insects usually leave some
22
THI NKM AGAZI NE. U S
clue as to their presence. The size, shape and condition of entry and exit holes can indicate what species of insects are likely to be living in the logs. Both termites and carpenter ants grow wings and swarm to new locations every so often. When they arrive at their destination, they shed their wings and burrow into the wood. Wing piles are a sign that you shouldn’t miss. You may also see dead insects on windowsills inside the home if the swarm originates inside the home. Some types of insects are relatively harmless, while others can cause structural damage. Because there is so much wood in a log home and because it’s so exposed and vulnerable, it’s a good idea for those inspecting log homes to have some knowledge of wood-destroying insects. InterNACHI has the only course designed to teach home inspectors to inspect log homes. This course is available online and it’s free (see link below). A log home inspection checklist is available through InspectorOutlet.com (see link below), but the checklist is not a substitute for taking the course. You can charge more for inspecting log homes than for conventional homes because few inspectors are qualified to inspect them. Passing the Log Home Inspection course will lower your liability.
: IN THE FIELD
DECODING THE
MOLD
H 26
CONUNDRUM
ere’s a
builders, presenters, education
thinker…for all
materials, and professionals. As
burgs? Thus, we find ourselves
and found the online etymology
of us – what
all knowledge does, our industry
wondering – why do we refer
c. 1200 mould referred to a
isn’t a mold,
knowledge has compounded
to a variant of fungal growth
hollow pattern used to shape
but fits in a
upon itself as it has grown
as “mold” when we also refer
things but in a figurative sense,
mold and can
alongside the continued industry
to “mold” as an object to form/
stemming from Latin, of course
mold to any contour? The answer
evolution (e.g., once upon a time
shape objects? Are you ready for
(why didn’t I take that class in
– mold.
home inspectors only offered
a crazy answer…brace yourselves.
high school…).
dictionary (who knew…?). Well,
In the trades and related
home inspections…). But, how
I was curious about this
industries, we often say things
often do we stop and think about
idea (particularly since many
morphed a bit to refer to physical
to clients and others that come
the words which we are spewing
of us don’t use “mold” in our
form/shaping. By c. 1400, molde
from yet other inspectors,
forth like a slurry of melting ice
verbiage). So, I used AI searching
referred to stuff growing on other
T H I NKM AGAZI NE. U S
By c. 1300, the word had
stuff and came from either Proto-
as a term referencing a subset
who got flattened by a house (see
classification of type, but in our
Germanic (wetness, slipperiness)
of organic microbial growth?
why I used this reference now…),
understanding of the term. It’s
or Old English (loose earth). If
Sadly, it doesn’t look like it. Just
it would be so much easier.
a communication issue so our
we fast-forward to 1897, the Brits
a coincidence. Mold usually is
I’ve been perplexed and
messaging isn’t way off when we
made a point to say all variants
intended to refer to one type of
stupefied many times over the
speak with clients and agents
should be spelled “mold.” So
fungus that grows on organic
12 years I’ve been inspecting
and builders. Perhaps, like most
much for uniqueness. Colonists…
matter. Fungal growth/microbial
related to mold – like Lord
of our industry information that
eh.
growth is the more generic term
Voldermort or Macbeth, we
has continued to evolve, our
encompassing all fungi, inclusive
aren’t supposed to say it, write
usage of the term as taboo can,
of mold.
To obfuscate the matter just a bit – mould in the mid-14
it, snuggle it, support it, or
too – much like the Grinch’s
If we want to split hairs,
play with it. Yet, we now have a
heart grew three sizes (also, that’s
by kneading (think dough);
we could ask – why do we say
plethora of third-party providers
a medical condition if I know
by late 14c. it had baked (get
“mold” when there are various
constantly shoving mold testing,
anything about hearts…), our
it…) into kneading bread and
types of molds? Some molds
mold sampling, mold reporting,
usage of mold can grow if our
forming into a specific shape.
are okay molds, like Glenda the
and mold vacations (okay, I may
understanding of how and when
The figurative sense of the word
Good Witch. And some molds
have made that last one up)
to use it grows, too. So, we could
– as in, mold your child in your
are bad, like the Wicked Witch of
down our small business throats.
mold our businesses in the mold
image (referring to character) –
the East. I mean, when we’re in
Sooooooooooooo, the legal eagles
of a well-educated professional
appears to have come back with
crawlspaces, it’s pretty impossible
advise not to say “mold,” but we
who can distinguish moments for
the assertiveness of the plague c.
to know the difference for those
can offer “mold” testing services.
mold to safely be front and center.
1600.
of us not properly trained as
I think I’m starting to understand
I do hope you’ve enjoyed this educationally molding experience.
century meant to mix or blend
So, is there a link or some
mycologists. If the bad molds
absurdism, after all.
form of a connection between
would wear striped socks like
Perhaps the issue isn’t the
usage of mold as a tool and mold
their ne’er-do-well counterpart
etymology of the term, or the
By Greg Johns Owner and Inspector cookeville.wini.com
T HIN KMAGAZINE.US
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: HOME CHECK
FIREPLACE
FUEL FIREPLACES AND WOOD STOVES ARE DESIGNED TO BURN ONLY ONE TYPE OF FUEL. USED AS ALL-PURPOSE INCINERATORS, THESE DEVICES CAN POSE THE FOLLOWING HAZARDS:
H
armful vapors can vent into the living space. Even the most efficient fireplaces will vent directly into the living space while they’re opened and closed for cleaning and refueling, exposing everyone in the house to potentially dangerous fumes. Harmful vapors will vent to the outdoors. Most newer fireplaces and wood stoves do an excellent job of funneling smoke and fumes to the outdoors, but the problem doesn’t end there; this pollution persists, contaminating household and environmental
28
T H I NKM AGAZI NE. U S
BY NICK GROMICKO, CMI®
air. Burning inappropriate fuel can cause mechanical damage. Chimneys can become lined with residue from inappropriate items, which may lead to a dangerous chimney fire. The fumes from certain items will quickly wear out sensitive components, such as catalytic combustors in wood stoves. Read the following guidelines to better understand what can and cannot be safely burned in a residential fireplace or wood stove. What can be burned in a fireplace?
Dry, Cut Firewood An adequate fuel supply will consist of a mixture of hardwoods, such as maple and oak, and softwoods, such as fir and pine. Softwoods ignite quickly and are useful in the early stages of the fire, while hardwoods provide a longerlasting fire, and are best used after preheating the chimney. Despite the different burning characteristics of hardwoods and softwoods, which can be attributed to differences in density, the heat-energy released by burning wood is the same, regardless of species. To dry out
wood, it should be stacked in an open area so the sun can warm the pieces and the breezes can carry away the moisture. Poplar, spruce, and other softwoods generally dry quickly, as do wood that has been split small. Adequately seasoned wood has a moisture content of less than 20%, which can be checked using the following indicators: • The wood has darkened from white or a cream color to yellow or grey. • There are cracks or checks in the end grain. • A hollow sound is produced
when two pieces of wood are banged together. • You can split a piece and feel if the new surface is damp or dry. • The wood does not hiss while burning. • You can check its moisture content with a moisture meter. Pallets Generally, pallets are safe to burn in fireplaces, although those that are treated with the fumigant methyl bromide (labeled with the initials MB) are unsafe to burn. Also, pallets may have been exposed to a variety of chemicals while they were in use. Aside from these concerns, pallets produce a hot flame because they’re usually very dry and their segments are thin. Be careful to check for nails while cutting pallets, as they may damage a saw blade. You may also wind up with nails in your ash, which should be disposed of far from roads and driveways. Fallen Tree Limbs These can generally be collected and used for kindling, provided they have been given time to dry. Wood Collected from Housing Developments If it is truly trash and not someone’s property (including the housing contractor’s), using scavenged wood that has been cleared away for housing developments is good for burning. Try to obtain it before the non-lumber grade wood is pushed into massive piles and burned as a means of disposal by the contractor. Fire Logs These artificial logs burn relatively cleanly and release less ash than their natural wood counterparts. What should never be burned in a fireplace? Painted Wood Paint contains heavy metals, such as lead, chromium, and titanium, which are used to make the different colors. These metals, especially lead, can be toxic even in small quantities if inhaled. If you’re unsure if your paint has lead, be sure to consult with your InterNACHI inspector during your next scheduled inspection. Pressure-Treated Wood Wood is commonly made resistant to fungus and insects through the addition of copper, chromate, and arsenic, in a process known as CCA treatment. CCA treatment places roughly 27 grams of arsenic in every 12-foot 2x6, which is sufficient to kill about 250 adults, which is why it is illegal in the U.S. to burn pressure-treated wood. Vaporized CCA wood, known as fly ash, is extremely toxic; in one case, as reported by the American Medical Association, a family was stricken with seizures, hair loss, debilitating
headaches, blackouts, and nosebleeds from fly ash released when they unknowingly used CCA wood to burn in their fireplace. Even the family’s houseplants and fish succumbed to the toxic fumes. Plywood, Particleboard, Chipboard Or OSB These manmade woods release formaldehyde, and potentially hydrochloric acid or dioxin, when burned. Some states have outlawed the incineration of some or all of these artificial wood products. Rotted, Diseased or Moldy Wood This wood will not burn as long as normal wood, may produce bad smells when burned, and could bring insects into the house. Damp Wood Wood that has a moisture content higher than 20% will burn inefficiently and will contribute to a greater accumulation of creosote in the chimney, as well as air pollution. Allergenic Plants Urushiol, which is the chemical that induces the typically minor allergic reaction when skin is exposed to poison ivy, poison sumac or poison oak, is far more dangerous when inhaled. Urushiol is not destroyed by fire and can quickly cause life-threatening respiratory distress if any of these plants are burned. Dryer Lint While it’s often used effectively as a firestarter, lint can contain a wide array of dangerous chemicals that come from your clothes and fabric softener. Trash Never burn household garbage, as it contains a range of potentially hazardous materials and chemicals that react in unpredictable ways when burned together. Newspaper ink, plastics, aluminum foil, plastic baggies, and whatever else constitutes your particular trash can create a deadly chemical cocktail. Driftwood Wood found on the beach of an ocean or salty lake will release salt when burned, which will quickly corrode any metal and etch the glass of a wood stove or fireplace. Catalytic converters are especially vulnerable to salt corrosion. In addition to potential damage to the stove or fireplace, the EPA claims that driftwood releases toxic chemicals when burned. In summary, use only approved and appropriate fuel to burn in your fireplace or wood stove, because certain items should never be burned because they can cause problems ranging from minor irritation to a hazardous health threat to your family. T HIN KMAGAZINE.US
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: SPOTLIGHT
Mark Hummel
TRANSFORMING THE INDUSTRY’S BUSINESS PRACTICES
A
few years ago, I spent several
Builder, one of my main goals is to be ahead
Why is that? Most of the people in the industry
months calling home inspectors
of the industry. As a coaching and training
that I talked with had a vision to grow into
around the country and asked
mastermind group that focuses on helping
a team and have a company that provided
them what they were focused on,
inspection companies refine their systems,
for them and their lifestyle. So why is it rare
what their vision for the future was, and what
processes, teams, and everything else under the
that people do that? One thing I learned was
pain points they were running into. The number
business side of the industry, we never want to
that throughout a company’s life, the typical
of home inspectors reached was something
find ourselves reacting to an industry shift and
inspection company will bounce between 1-4
like 1,000+. It was a long process of making
playing in survival mode.
inspectors several times if they ever hire anyone
calls, taking notes, adjusting my questions, and making more calls. Can you imagine talking to 1,000 home inspectors in just a few months? What do you think you would hear when
at all.
Part of how we do that is
As we unpack this, let’s start with the first
making sure we keep an eye
ceiling that a home inspector must overcome if
on the industry and the
they plan to jump into our industry and survive.
industries that affect ours.
Many companies struggle to launch. They finish
asked what their main focus was? Would it be The exercise of calling 1,000+ home inspectors
waiting for the jobs to roll in. If only it was that
What do you believe the response would
was eye opening and helped us understand how
easy! As most of us know, there is much more
be if you asked them what their vision for the
best to serve the industry through coaching and
work to it than that and the sooner you figure
future looked like? Would it be huge? Would it
training.
that out, the faster you grow.
like yours?
With that as the background, I’ll share what
Where many companies go wrong at
What sort of pain points do you think they
I learned while making the calls. See if you can
this stage of business is they rely too much
described as they brought to the conversation
see yourself or relate to the following story. I bet
on technology to bring them jobs. Many will
things that they were actively working on and
you can.
dump money that they don’t have into digital
be small?
often, suffering through? Chances are that you’re working through something right now too. In my role as the CEO of Inspector Empire 32
their training, build a website, and sit back
T H I NKM AGAZI NE. US
Most of the inspection companies in our
marketing campaigns that they can’t measure
industry are somewhere between one to four
and don’t know how to optimize. It’s very
inspectors. In fact, most are just one inspector.
common to talk to someone on the phone who
T HIN KMAGAZINE.US
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: SPOTLIGHT
has been in business for six months to a year
a business, flails a bit, and then gets traction
spots. As soon as we stop, someone else will take
and is failing to launch. All the while they are
in their market. Then they do such a good job
them from us.
tweaking their website, their emails, and their
building relationships that they start to get
social media plan.
overwhelmed with jobs. What happens next for
owner gets to capacity and stops the relationship
the typical inspector?
development work. Or put another way, they
Eventually, there is a shift to a new strategy. Either the new company realizes that this is not
Typically, they shut off the growth work and
And that’s what happens. The new company
have no retention plan!
the way after much pain and wasted time or they
start doing as many jobs as they can physically
happen to enter the industry with a better plan
handle. And while this is happening, the
anything when helping companies in this stage.
than sitting back and waiting for business to find
relationships that they worked so hard to acquire
First, when someone says, “I’m too busy. I don’t
them. Regardless, the inevitable next step is to
start to fade. The agents they worked hard to
want to market right now because if I start
get out and build relationships. As many as you
convert, stop using them.
turning away business, the agents won’t use me
can. The more the better! After all, you’ll likely
Two things stick out to me more than
anymore,” I start to cringe. Guess what, they are
take a job from anyone and everyone at this
It’s not personal. It’s
certainly not going to use you if you stop talking
stage, so no agent or home buyer is off-the-table.
human nature. If you are
to them… NEVER stop your growth activities.
This is a very effective strategy, and I would
not constantly reminding
The second thing is a company with no
encourage this as the most important part
someone that you exist, they
retention plan. At this business stage, 1–4
of your growth strategy at the early stage of
will forget about you and
inspectors, it is almost a guarantee that you are
business. In fact, this strategy will follow you
move on to someone else.
working hard to reacquire the same clients over
until you have enough resources to outspend or outsmart your competition with digital
and over again, because you don’t have a strong Our main goal in sales is to be the number
retention plan. It’s way cheaper and much more
marketing. That really doesn’t happen until you
one or two spot in the clients’ mind when it
profitable to keep an existing client than to
get to the 2–3 million mark though.
comes time for them to make a decision. If you
convert a new one.
After many fail to launch well and eventually figure out how to sell their service, the next
are not number one or two in their mind, it’s
Do the relationship building work… even
very unlikely that you will get their business.
when you are at capacity! And always work your
ceiling they run up against is capacity. This is
When we are actively pursuing relationships,
a tough one. The new home inspector starts
we are making sure we occupy those coveted two
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retention plan. Talking with all of those home inspector
owners let me see these first two ceiling as a
pay non-revenue producing office workers. To
pattern in our industry. The majority struggle to
scale well, you’ve got to nail this from the start or
launch, then struggle to maintain relationships.
fix it fast if you need to.
Stay with me, we are not at the best part yet. The
these skills. There is still one thing we need to bring to light here. The one big thing that if done right, solves all the problems above. Seriously, this one
most glaring and overlooked transition in the
We call it an economic model
shift will accelerate all of the other things in your
industry. Where almost to it though. Stay with
that serves your future
business and fix issues in record time.
me.
organizational structure.
Are you ready?
As the company owner learns that they can’t live at capacity, have no time, make little money
Everything needs to fit together and be able to scale.
for their efforts, and ultimately begin to burn out or think bigger, the next common step is to
in our industry and almost ALL of those 1,000+ Third, leadership skills. Let’s face it. Most
start thinking about hiring. Some companies will.
of us were not born with amazing talent in the
Most don’t.
leadership lane. Some of us have to work really
To be fair, it takes courage to hire someone
It sounds simple, but it’s hard to execute. It’s needed at every stage of business that I’ve seen
hard at it and all of us could be better… no matter
and be responsible for another person’s
how good you might already be. Leadership is
livelihood.
inspectors needed it. It is… Shifting your mindset from thinking like a technician to thinking like a business owner. I told you it was simple. It’s not an easy shift
such common a stumbling block at this stage that
though. We get pulled into the technician level
As business maturity begins to develop for
we’ve actually started teaching a training series
work, a lot, and constantly have to fight this.
running a home inspection company after launch
to address these issues. It’s called Recruit, Select,
and capacity issues are solved, three ceilings hit
Train, Manage, Motivate.
all at once here. The next pattern that emerged in my research.
That’s an important set of skills to develop if you plan to be a business owner.
So, what does it mean to think like a technician? A technician minded company owner will be focused mostly on tools. Not just the physical
First, developing a great training system is
Failure to launch well, max capacity,
tools on your truck, but software, templates, and
usually not done until you’ve hired several guys.
inconsistent growth work, training systems,
other things needed to run the operation. Those
The first few may do ok, but bringing them on
weak financial model, and lacking leadership
things need your attention, for sure, but a lot
with a well thought out and efficient training
development. These are some of the most
of people get stuck in business by focusing too
system is typically overlooked or not executed
common reasons an inspection company will
much on tools. They have this little voice that
well.
never go beyond 1-4 inspectors. It’s also why
tells them there is some magic formula for the
Second, most company owners end up
many people are struggling in their markets more
right template, tool, and spreadsheet that unlocks
paying their first guy or two too much. I won’t
than they need to right now. And it is why many
millions of dollars. If they could just find the
get into the numbers here, but it is very common
people have left the industry embarrassed and
formula through tweaking everything to death…
for an owner to have not thought out what it
looking for a new opportunity. It hurts my heart
they would make it! Wrong. I don’t know any
would look like in the future to bring on multiple
to see someone struggling in business or not
large companies that spent all their time building
inspectors, growth people, pay themselves, and
excelling simply because they are not developing
their company by leading with tools.
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: SPOTLIGHT
Many will build their business by marketing that they are the greatest technician that ever
have an opportunity to level up and outthink
and a bigger company will emerge. They must
your competition.
become bigger themselves first. They work on
walked the earth. It’s alluring to do that. And
Tools and strategy. Most will still stay
themselves and grow their business acumen,
it works too. This is another sign of technician
stuck here. Constantly focused on tools, selling
their leadership skills, their ability to attract
mindset.
themselves as the greatest technician, and not
and hire talent, and they surround themselves
giving attention to their strategy.
with like-minded people who are working just
Do business with me because I
Ask yourself right now, am I stuck because
am the greatest technician in
I’m not carving out time to plan my strategy
the market.’
and execute? Am I stuck in the technician phase
Did you grow your company by explaining how great you were at doing inspections, writing reports, or being thorough? Most do. There is nothing at all wrong with that. The problem is when we get stuck here and don’t know how to evolve into a business versus a technician with a great work ethic.
as hard and are just as focused on building a big life as they are. That shift in thinking is what I see as the
of business? Do I constantly reinvent the plan
common reason for people going farther and
and get the same results?
faster in business. Once the shift is made,
So, what does it mean to think like a business owner? This is where we focus the most in our coaching at Inspector Empire Builder.
strategy and tools come easy. If you need help with any part of your business building journey, feel free to reach out to us at Inspector Empire Builder for a free
The first step is almost always to help
connection. We love to connect with people on
someone make the shift from thinking like a
the phone, do free deep dives into your business strategy, and just be of service to as many
Let’s talk strategy now. When was the last
technician to thinking like a business owner.
time that you gave purposeful focus to your 1-,
A business minded owner will sacrifice
3-, and 5-year strategy for thriving in business?
revenue today to accelerate business growth
For those 1,000+ company owners that I called,
and make way more later. That is the biggest
NOTE: If you were one of the 1,000+ inspectors
most simply didn’t. At all. Ever. Nearly 100%
mark of a mindset shift.
I spoke with years ago, thank you! You’ve helped
people in the industry as we can.
of them said that they have a plan, they have a
A business minded owner will say no
us raise the bar for the industry we love.
strategy, but it is not in writing, and they don’t
to an inspection because they are building
Lastly, as you consider your next step in
carve out time to think about it and work on it.
something bigger than just the next job. They
business, however you do it… don’t do it alone.
Here this clearly - It is a competitive
will focus ON their business weekly. They will
Find a tribe, a community, a coach, or a mentor.
advantage to carve out time to strategize. Truly!
read, learn, and grow their skill in business.
We go farther and faster together. Always.
If most are not doing it, that means that you
They understand that they can’t simply work,
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: HOME IMPROVEMENT
HOW
TO
DEAL
WITH
A
BAT I N F E S TAT I O N
O
Bats are nocturnal mammals found in most inhabited places throughout the world. Bat infestation in homes, especially in attics, can be a health hazard, as well as a nuisance, for homeowners. Interesting Facts Due to its high levels of phosphorous and nitrogen, guano (bat feces) is an effective
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fertilizer and gunpowder ingredient. Guano has been such a critical resource that in 1879, a war between Chile and Bolivia, called the Guano War, was waged over rights to the guano-rich western coastline. Despite how large they appear in flight, bats are remarkably small. Some can fit through openings smaller than ½-inch wide. Even the largest bat – the golden-crowned flying-fox -- with a wingspan of up to 5 feet, may weigh as little as 3 pounds. Roughly 20% of all known mammal species are species of
bats. Bats are the only mammals capable of sustained flight. Contrary to popular belief, bats are neither rodents nor birds, and they are not blind. Indications of a household bat infestation: • the accumulation of guano. Bat guano resembles rodent droppings but can be distinguished in several ways: guano tends to cluster as it piles up beneath the exit of the bats’ roost; guano often has a shiny, speckled appearance due to the
ingestion of insect wings; and guano can be easily crushed into smaller fragments, while rodent droppings will not. Of course, it is not safe to touch any animal droppings with unprotected hands; • milky white urine stains on windows; • stains around entry holes, such as cracks and crevices; • mouse-like droppings under eaves and overhangs; • stains and odors caused by urine and guano; • noises such as squeaking,
scratching and crawling in attics and walls shortly before dusk and dawn; and • grease and dirt. Bats often leave smears of grease and dirt from their coats on the entry point to their roost. Bats and Disease Rabies: Due to their high mobility and social behavior, bats are often hosts for diseases, such as rabies. Rabies is perhaps the most serious disease transmitted by bats in North America. Most of the human rabies cases in the United States have been caused by the rabies virus from bats. Awareness of the facts about bats and rabies can help homeowners protect themselves, their families, and their pets. Rabies is a virus that affects the nervous system of humans and other mammals. Once symptoms of the disease develop, it is almost always fatal. Humans contract rabies from animal bites. Some
bats have teeth so sharp that a sleeping person may not realize that they have been bitten. It is recommended that those waking up with bats in the bedroom undergo a series of preventative (and sometimes painful and expensive) rabies inoculations. The alternative is to capture the bats (without being bitten) and take them to a laboratory for testing. Indications that a bat has rabies: • The bat is in an unusual place, such as a bedroom or in the lawn. Healthy bats do not rest on the ground. • The bat is approachable. Healthy bats are scared of humans and will flee long before they can be approached. • The bat is active during the day. • The bat appears unable to fly. For these reasons, rabid bats are often most likely to come into contact with humans.
Histoplasmosis This respiratory disease, caused by the fungus Histoplasma capsulatum, is transmitted through the inhalation of fungal spores found in bat guano and bird droppings. Although generally not fatal, histoplasmosis can cause flu-like symptoms. For individuals with compromised immune systems, such as those with AIDS, histoplasmosis can be fatal. Bat Removal The following instructions for bat removal can be passed on from inspectors to their clients: The entry point for the bats should be identified. Holes as small a human thumb are large enough for some bats to squeeze through. The homeowner can seal off most of these holes with caulk, leaving one hole intact for resident bats to exit at night. The homeowner can then plug this hole at night so that bats cannot return to the house. Alternatively,
the homeowner can install a one-way “check-valve” from wire mesh that will allow bats to exit the house but not allow them to return. “Bat houses,” which can be constructed or purchased, can be placed next to the house during bat removal to provide bats with an attractive alternative to the house. Note: Bat removal should not take place during the summer (in North America). Baby bats that are unable to fly will not be able to leave the house during the summer months and they will starve to death if adults are not permitted to enter the home. Bat removal during the summer is inhumane and will result in the additional problems posed by decomposing bat carcasses. In summary, bats can transmit dangerous diseases to humans, and inspectors and homeowners should be wary of bat infestations.
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: ESCAPES
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Training and Support for Home Inspectors
888-SCAN-4-IR - 888-722-6447 www.unitedinfrared.com
• Add-on Services (Yields Higher Inspection Fees) • Advanced Inspection Techniques • Cameras and Equipment (Top Manufactures) • Training (FREE) with most equipment purchases
8 CEUs – TheHomeInspectIR 2024 is a 8-hour online course developed for home inspectors interested in adding infrared thermography to their existing business or developing a career in thermography. Topics include Insulation Inspection, HVAC Inspection, Moisture Inspection, and Electrical Inspection. A portion of course cost can be applied towards the purchase of an infrared camera. $295 Approved by CREIA / ASHI / InterNACHI
Home Inspector Courses
5CEUs – SewerScan is a 5-hour online course intended to help contractors complement and grow their current business with underground piping inspections via a sewer camera. SewerScan is an excellent way to add new revenue to your business. Our training is focused on equipment selection, proper set up, how-to survey, sample finding, pitfalls, reporting, and marketing a successful business. Includes 2 years free listing on SewerScan.com. Cost of course may be applied to the purchase of a sewer camera. $595 Approved by CREIA / ASHI / InterNACHI 9CEUs – ChimneyScan is a service offered by home inspectors who are trained in an advanced inspection technique to find potential problems in residential chimneys, fireplaces, or venting systems. ChimneyScan technicians serve home buyers and sellers who are interested in adding a more detailed inspection in their home buying process. A ChimneyScan features an enhanced visual inspection of the exterior chimney and includes and a video of the internal flue (Level II) which is not normally included in a standard home inspection. Cost of course may be applied to the purchase of a chimney camera. $595 Approved by CREIA / ASHI / InterNACHI 1 CEU – FlueGasInspector.com is a service offered by home inspectors who are trained in an advanced inspection technique to find potential problems in residential and commercial gas burning venting systems. The Certified FlueGasInspector training course is intended to help home inspectors complement and grow their business with an advanced analysis of exhaust gasses within the appliance. Exhaust analysis will help diagnose true operating condition of appliance in regards to proper combustion and exhaust. $195 Approved by CREIA / ASHI / InterNACHI 10 CEUs - PoolandSpaInspectors.com is a service offered by home inspectors who are trained in advanced techniques to find water loss and water chemistry analysis. PoolandSpaInspectors serve home buyers and sellers who are interested in adding a more detailed inspection in their home buying process or who suspect pool or spa deferred maintenance and water loss. The PoolandSpaInspectors training application is a 10-hour online course designed to provide home inspectors the knowledge they need to offer their clients an upgraded pool and spa inspection. $295 Approved by CREIA / ASHI / InterNACHI 4 CEUs – 107 Test Prep Course is a 4-hour in-depth test preparation course is designed to take you through all the stages of passing your FAA Part 107 exam and getting licensed as a drone pilot for commercial use under the FAA for small Unmanned Aircraft (UAS) Part 107. Learn the many applications of using drones for your business. From roof inspections to solar panels to building and site surveys, drones have unlimited potential in their utilization. United Infrared has teamed up with Clarity Aero to provide this important and exciting new field of training. $350 Approved by CREIA / ASHI / InterNACHI Residential Construction Performance Guidelines
2 CEUs – The Residential Construction Performance Guidelines book is the construction industry’s most accepted contractor reference on how homes should perform. This 2-hour course brings this book to life! Live video, countless examples, guidelines and tips. Comes with a free consumer edition of the book. $49. Approved by CREIA / ASHI / InterNACHI
Call United Infrared at 888-722-6447 to register or see our website at www.unitedinfrared.com/store
Interested in FREE TRAINING or SAVING $$ on advanced training classes that will make you MONEY? Visit our Booth in the Trade Show Hall to learn more!
United Infrared is a top distributor of the highest quality cameras and equipment available for home inspectors. Our exclusive training courses are included free with many items. Check out our show specials at the United Infrared booth or mobile training unit. United Infrared is the largest training and marketing network of certified thermographers in the world. UI is a full-service infrared training organization whose instructors are experts in various applications of infrared thermography. For more information: (888) 722-6447 | info@unitedinfrared.com | www.unitedinfrared.com
: ESSENCE
OPTIMAL HORMONAL BALANCE As time goes by, our body’s hormone production slows down— for both men and women. It can be a slow progression, or it can be a dramatic drop. We tend to think of hormones as “sex hormones,” but we have receptor sites all throughout our body. Hormones affect our brains, heart, bones, muscles— everything!
By Carolyn Zaumeyer NP and Founder LowTE Florida | lowteflorida.com
O
ne of the first things people may notice when their hormones decline is their sleep becomes disrupted. Without a good night’s sleep, it is impossible to have a good day. Many people try herbal sleep medications or even prescription medication that may help you go to sleep but may not help you stay asleep. Your moods may become more uneven, leaving you feeling a 46
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little blue or anxious. Optimizing your hormones may help or alleviate depression and anxiety to the point where many people can wean off their prescription medications. Testosterone and estradiol are “happy hormones” that help you enjoy your life. Sexual thoughts, function, and satisfaction may decrease. Testosterone is inherently responsible for your libido. Testosterone can start to decline as early as your late twenties for women and early thirties for
men. Intimacy in relationships is especially important—it is considered “the glue” for relationships. Fatigue is the number one reason many people seek out hormone replacement: “I am tired of being tired!” Bringing back the missing hormones can be a great energizer—giving you back the second half of your day. Fatigue can affect your mood, relationship, and work. As time goes by and hormones decline many people notice an
increase in belly fat. Without the hormones of our youth, our body changes how we process our food. It seems as if anything white we eat (sugar, bread, pasta, bagels, etc.) turns into fat around our middle and stays. So how do you get back to feeling as good as you did a few years ago? Optimizing your hormones may be the answer. Having a complete physical and laboratory testing will indicate if optimizing your hormones is the answer.
: ENVIRONMENTAL
EXERCISE EQUIPMENT DA N G E R S
E
xercise equipment is inherently dangerous. Various types of home gym devices are typically large and have moving parts. Accidents, whether to adults who misuse the equipment or to children who gain unsupervised access, can be avoided through preventative measures. Gym equipment is also a breeding ground for dangerous pathogens, particularly in commercial gyms where users share the equipment. Physical Injury The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission estimates
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By: Nick Gromicko, CMI® that about 8,700 children under 5 years of age and 16,500 children between the ages of 5 and 14 are injured by exercise equipment each year. Some of these injuries are burns. In fact, an Australian study found that treadmill friction injuries account for roughly 1% of all pediatric burns. Safety Measures to Prevent Physical Injury • Never leave free weights, especially barbells, in an unstable position. • Clip the treadmill safety key onto your clothing. Do not leave it dangling or wrapped around the handle. All treadmills come
with safety clips that will turn the treadmill off if the runner falls. When the treadmill is not in use, keep the safety key out of reach of children, as it is required to activate the machine. • Accelerate and decelerate gradually. It’s a good idea to start a treadmill on the lowest speed setting possible and then increase the rate gradually, as some treadmills can accelerate with surprising speed. When you’re finished exercising, lower the speed of the belt gradually and step carefully to the non-moving platforms at the sides of the machine. • Discourage children’s access
to gym equipment through the following measures: • Keep gym equipment in a room that has a door which can be locked. • Position the equipment so that you have a clear view of your surroundings, and avoid distractions by music or television, especially when children may be present. • Keep folding machines stored and secured in the folded position. Parents should keep home exercise equipment locked and unplugged so that children can’t activate the machines on their own. In 2009, the daughter of
former professional boxer Mike Tyson was found accidentally strangled by the power cord of a home treadmill. While it may be inconvenient to unplug an apparatus after every use, this practice can save children’s lives. Pathogens Germs are found in high numbers virtually everywhere in a gym, from the weightlifting bench to the sauna. Sweaty residue on workout equipment, particularly the machines often used by several people in quick succession, such as weights and exercise bikes, provide the moisture that encourages the spread of germs. In a study published by Men’s Fitness Magazine, a quarter-sized site harbored 132 million bacteria, and the average site tested yielded 16 million. On the same area of a toilet seat, you can expect to find just 500 bacteria, according to the
study. Pathogens found on gym equipment can lead to a number of ailments, ranging from minor skin infections, such as pimples, to life-threatening diseases, including meningitis, endocarditis, and sepsis. Staphylococcus aureus is perhaps the most serious pathogen found in commercial gyms, as it is resistant to antibiotics. Good hygiene is the best way to prevent the transmission of pathogens around exercise equipment, especially in commercial facilities. Practice the following precautions when working out: • Wash your hands thoroughly before and after exercise. After touching weights and machine handrails, try your best to keep your hands away from your eyes, nose, ears, and mouth until you can lather up.
• Wipe down the machines and communal yoga mats with disinfectant before and after use. Commercial gyms ordinarily disinfect equipment on a regular basis, but you should not rely on the competence of the staff. It’s also bad etiquette to make the next user swim through a pool of your sweat. • Bring your own sweat towel and use it. In fact, it’s better to bring two, as you can place one on machines and benches to protect yourself when you sit down and use the other to periodically wipe down your body. Don’t trust the towels provided by the gyms, since they are not governed by the same stringent standards that hospitals are. Hospitals must adhere to strict regulations regarding the temperature at which towels must be laundered. • Wash and sterilize your water bottle regularly.
• Don’t go barefoot in a gym shower or sauna. Human traffic, hot temperatures, moisture, and a lack of sunlight create a perfect environment for many bacteria. Wear flip-flops or water shoes to avoid athlete’s foot, ringworm, and other such communicable conditions. Shoes may also help you avoid slipping on wet tiles. • Sit on a towel or wear shorts in the sauna to avoid direct contact with the seating, which may harbor bacteria. • Cover any breaks in your skin with bandages. Even a minor scratch or raw skin can allow the entrance of Staphylococcus aureus, causing a serious staph infection. In summary, gym equipment can cause injuries and conceal dangerous germs. Precautions should be taken to ensure that they are used safely.
"Good hygiene is the best way to prevent the transmission of pathogens around exercise equipment, especially in commercial facilities."
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: SIPS Curated by Alex I. Gerson
IRISH COFFEE
A BRIEF HISTORY
the original Irish coffee was invented and named by Joe Sheridan, a head chef in Foynes, County Limerick but originally from Castlederg, County Tyrone. The coffee was conceived after a group of American passengers disembarked from a Pan Am flying boat on a miserable winter evening in the 1940s. Sheridan added whiskey to the coffee to warm the passengers. After the passengers asked if they were being served Brazilian coffee, Sheridan told them it was “Irish coffee”.
The Gentleman’s Cocktail Inspired by Speakeasy Culture “Only Irish coffee provides in a single glass all four essential food groups: alcohol, caffeine, sugar and fat.”-Alex Levine
CIRCA
1942
INGREDIENTS • • • • •
2 2/3 oz (4 parts) Hot coffee 1 1/3 oz (2 parts) Irish whiskey 1 tsp. Brown sugar 1 oz (1½ parts) Fresh cream Irish coffee mug
PREPARATION Heat the coffee, whiskey and sugar; do not boil. Pour into glass and top with cream; serve hot.
LEPRECHAUN’S IRISH COFFEE
DID YOU KNOW? The Buena Vista Cafe in San Francisco holds the Guinness Record for largest Irish Coffee at 15 gallons. The Buena Vista Cafe also serves about 2,000 cups of Irish Coffee per day. Since 1952, that’s over 30 Million cups.
• • •
1 part Jameson Irish Whisky 2 parts Kahlua 2 parts half and half
Combine all above ingredients in an ice filled cocktail shaker and mix thoroughly. Pour into a martini glass and garnish with mint leaves and a vanilla bean. Enjoy!
THE “TOTALLY UNRELATED” SIDE NOTE In Irish mythology, the pot of gold is hidden at the end of a rainbow by a small member of the fairy family called the leprechaun. If you are not into Irish myths you are in luck because the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow is nothing more than a delicious, freshly brewed Irish Coffee.
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: EVENTS
FALL MASTERMIND 2023 IT WAS ALL ABOUT CULTURE, CONNECTION, AND CONTENT! THE INSPECTION INDUSTRY CAME TOGETHER FOR REAL CONVERSATIONS ABOUT WHAT IT MEANS TO RUN A HOME INSPECTION COMPANY AS A THRIVING, PROFITABLE BUSINESS.
I
nspector Empire Builder hosted an amazing three-day event on November 8-10, 2023 in Austin, Texas, which had 200-250 attendees representing over 150 home inspection companies across North America. Nationally renowned speakers from both inside and outside the home inspection industry spoke on a wide variety of topics. Attendees enjoyed cocktails, dinner, parties, and time building relationships with the most professional and fastest growing inspection companies in the nation.
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