]IHE SOUTHLAND

By WAYNE GARDNER executive vice president

THE conclusion of our Annual - Management Conference always engenders a sigh of relief {rom the president, the vp. and the staff.

But it also heralds the approach of the New Year and new areal-of endeavor for the association to serve its membership. And just as the asgo- ciation officers are evaluating per- formance to the members and-deciding on the future, so too is each mem- ber evaluating performance and the future, and it may well be that thoughts about benefits derived from members,hip do not aplra,r parallel.

In evaluating an association, a menber is apt to ask, "What has it done for me today?" And well he should, but he should also ask the question, "What is it going to do for me tomorrow?" And at the same time he should ask, "Who is going to help me with education programs for my employees ? Who is going to keep me informed of what is happening at the loeal, state and national level regard- ing new laws or amendments to old laws, rulings, regulations, etc., that will affect my business ? Who is going to.speak for me at the local, state and national level about proposed Iegislation that will affect my business both pro and con ? Who is going covered, including areas above false ceilings where undetected fires normally can get a big headstart. to be promoting wood and wood products to architects, engineers, builders, designers and others using wood, so that there will be customers for my business in the future?

Good housekeeping is one of the easiest and most important ways to prevent fires. When trash is not allowed to accumulate, the risk of fire is much reduced. Care with cigarettes is important, too. Plenty of suitable receptacles for both employees and the public should be provided. Any areas where volatile fumes or highly combustible items are found should be off limits for smoking.

Fire extinguishers often make it possible to contain small fires. Units need to be properly installed and maintained on a regular schedule. The proper kind for the anticipated .type of fire should be installed and clearly marked for that use. Your supp[er or fire department will willingly furnish help on selection, use, and maintenance, so take advantage of their knowledge.

Fires often start from electrical sources. How long has it been since you checked firtures and wiring to see if they have been affected by traffic, vibration, oil and grease, high temperatures, or corrosive chemicals?

Where am I going to look for technieal management information regarding my business ? What about specialized insurance programs, tailored to fit my needs ? Where do I look for employees if I need additional help?" These are the areas of concern for a businessman and the trade association established to represent his particular area of business is the place to get the answers.

Within the next five years there will be an ever increasing amount of government legislation aimed at business concerns. Much of it will be restrictive in nature. Business must cooperate through trade associatione, to prevent laws from becoming unduly restrictive. Now is the time to be concerned, not after the legislation is passed.