Floor Mats - Why Renting Floor Mats is Like Flushing Money Down the Commode For Most Businesses

Did you know that to rent a 4' x 6' floor mat costs about $5.00 per week or about $260.00 annually. Most floor mat rental companies require a three year contract to lease their mats. Under this scenario the cost over a three year contract can be well over $700.00. The unfortunate fact is that most companies that lease or rent their floor mats use more than one mat, so the financial impact is usually much greater. Add the following fees and the real expense for floor mats starts to snowball:
- Bogus "delivery fees" (Seriously, if I pick the mat up will these be waived?)
- Cleaning charges (If they don't clean the floor mats, will these also be waived? What am I paying for?)
- Fuel surcharges (Again, will these charges be waived if I decline delivery and cleaning?)
- Environmental Charges (What's this for - global warming?)
When faced with the option of either purchasing or renting your floor mats the following question is often posed, "Who will clean the mats if I purchase them?" I would hazard a guess that regardless of whether one buys his entrance mats outright or chooses to enlist the services of a mat rental company, that the end user will still be tasked with periodically cleaning the mats.
To illustrate this point, consider that floor mat rental companies generally schedule their mat pick-ups once per week, every other week or on a monthly basis. During the span of time between mat pick-ups, the customer will often pay a contract cleaner or employee to clean the office spaces. The floor mats will normally be vacuumed when ever the cleaning takes place. This is an added expense of the floor mats that is often overlooked. Even if it only takes 30 minutes per week (6 minutes per day) to vacuum the floor mats, a worker paid $10.00 per hour would spend 26 hours or cost approximately $260.00 annually in hard dollars. It is true that this labor expense will be incurred regardless of whether the mats in place are rented or purchased outright. The point of this exercise is to eradicate the false premise of the question that no one will clean the floor mats if they are purchased. Truth be told, if the floor mats are being rented, the end user company is "paying twice" to clean the mats. The companies who purchase their floor mats only incur a single cleaning expense.
There are many other issues that a customer is often "forced" to accept when he decides to rent his entrance mats. For instance, most mat rental companies only offer a limited selection of floor mat sizes. As a result, the customer is often left with the decision of picking a door mat size that does not suit the aesthetic or functional requirements of his building. For instance, if a Class A building entrance requires a 9' x 11' sized entrance mat to properly safeguard against slip and falls, or to meet certain maintenance or aesthetic parameters, you will be hard-pressed to find a mat rental company that will "rent" this size of a floor mat. They will, however, offer to rent several 4' x 10' or 4' x 8' mats that can be placed next to each other to achieve the same or near same floor mat coverage for the area. The problem is that the size of each floor mat can deviate as much as 5% during the manufacturing process. What this means is that 3 each 4' x 10' sized mats placed side by side will no doubt be of different actual sizes. This eliminates any semblance of uniformity not to mention the increased tripping hazard should one mat move on top of another mat (Lawsuits are another hidden expense of choosing the wrong matting system). I ask you, "How many times have you entered a building and traversed across 3 or 4 mats placed end to end to cover a desired area?" Not a pretty sight. Not a great first impression - especially to someone looking to lease some space. Missed revenues or lower lease rates due to a poor first impression is yet another hidden cost to a poor choice in floor matting. Expect and demand more.
Another issue that is often faced when one rents floor mats is the limitation in the matting colors that are available. Mat rental companies offer a limited selection of "stock" colors. These stock colors are usually Black, Brown, Red/Black and Gray. Other colors are available, however, there is usually an additional charge for getting the color that you want if it is not a stock color. The reason that mat rental companies offer stock colors is so that they will require less of an inventory to service their entire customer base. This "common stocking" approach means that the mat picked up from one customer on a Monday can be cleaned and delivered to another customer on Tuesday and that mat can be cleaned and delivered on Wednesday and so on. This increased revenue is great for the mat rental company, but the increased launderings have a deleterious effect on the overall quality of the floor mat over time. The effects of accelerated launderings can cause the mat edges to ripple over time and also to cause the colors of the floor mat to fade or "wash-out". Who knows where the mat you are renting today was yesterday - perhaps a restroom, convenience store drink station, auto shop, etc. As a result, the mats used in a mat rental program will never be as nice as the first day they were put into service. The customer often finds that while the charge for mat service always seems to stay constant, the quality of the delivered product does not. Expect more and demand more.
The fact of the matter is that certain types of companies still need to rent their floor mats. Companies that must contend with petroleums, oils and lubricants like an automobile service station need to rent their floor mats. Companies that are faced with dirt and grimes that involve food or greases like restaurants can often be better served with a mat rental program. Floor mats subjected to these types of dirt require special cleaning. The majority of company types, however, do not have to deal with this type of dirt. They must merely safeguard against the garden variety types of dirt from landscaping materials, cigarette ashes and parking lots that tend to get tracked into their buildings.
That said, there are hundreds of floor mats available today that will do a better job at stopping dirt at the door. Each matting manufacturer strives to make a floor matting product or products that will accomplish a specific objective (i.e., scrape, scrape and absorb, absorb, meet certain colors or sizes, etc.) The mats used in a rental program are primarily designed to be easy for the mat company to launder. These types of floor mats are also absorbent. However, rental floor mats just don't do a great job at trapping dirt. Consider that once that dirt gets into the building, it is incumbent upon the building maintenance staff to get it out of the building. That costs hard dollars. It makes better sense from a fiscal and a floor matting perspective to outfit the entrance area (where almost all of the dirt enters a building) with the most appropriate type of floor mat. Then, maintenance efforts can be focused on a concentrated area - the floor mat - rather than trying to track the dirt down from throughout the building.
The most appropriate type of floor matting system may include a scraper mat on the outside, a scrape and absorb type of matting in the vestibule area and a more absorbent type of matting on the inside. It normally takes about 18 lineal feet to knock off about 75% of the soils and moisture off of the feet of people entering a building. Why not raise the bar for your building and demand functionality, aesthetics and cost savings as well.
When one considers the "hard dollars" associated with renting floor mats along with the more obscure costs of additional maintenance costs for using the wrong type of matting, along with the loss in curb appeal from using rental mats, the financial impact of renting floor mats can be devastating. A company renting 5 mats at $5.00 per mat per week will spend nearly $4,000.00 over a three year period. Purchasing the same mats (which by the way will last at least 3 years and closer to 6 years) will cost in the neighborhood of about $700.00. You could literally pocket over $3,000 in savings OR buy a new set of mats every 6 months OR better yet, choose to invest in a better matting program altogether. Most companies can get greater coverage and a better matting system for $4,000.00.
During these financially challenging times, it may be time to stop flushing your maintenance dollars away.

Flanders/Precisionaire-Your First Choice for all of your HVAC Filter Needs.

Flanders Precisionaire has been in the filtration industry since 1950. Through innovation, commitment, and quality Flanders is the foremost in air filtration. At AmSan.com we are dedicated to providing our customers with the highest quality indoor air filtration products available and that starts with Flanders Precisionaire. With the large product line you should have no problem finding the Flanders Filters that suite your needs, not to mention that Flanders Precisionaire Filters are available in a large selection of sizes. If you can't find any of the Flanders Precisionaire filters in your size remember we can have any off the filters you see below custom made to the exact size you specify. As a proud Authorized Fanders Precisionaire  Distributor AmSan guarantees the best in indoor air filtration for your Home or Business.

For more information of Flanders/Precisionaire filters contact Steve Kolesar in New Hampshire at 603-548-4218 or skolesar@amsan.com or visit us online at http://www.flanderscorp.com/

Flanders -PrecisionAire HVAC Air Filters

PrecisionAire (Flanders) Air Filters


Summary



Flanders / PrecisionAire manufactures and sells air filtration systems and replacement filters for use in industrial, commercial, scientific, and nuclear arenas. They also sell several brands of replacement air filters for residential use. Their corporate headquarters is in St. Petersburg, Florida, with 11 production sites in the US, and two offshore plants.

Filters Home

PrecisionAire's Corporate History



A.R. Allan, Jr. started the company in New York in 1950. Initial applications were for atomic reactors and nuclear fuel plants. The first filters were designed to protect the atmosphere from radioactive particles.



Unlike many other air filtration companies, Flanders / PrecisionAire owns two paper mills and manufactures the paper products used in their filters.

PrecisionAire's Air Filter Products



Flanders sells several brand names at the retail level, each in several styles and ratings. Pleated filters are designed to trap more particulates since they provide a larger surface than flat materials. Following is a list of their main replacement filters for the home:



* NaturalAire Standard Pleated, MERV 8, traps particles 5 microns and above

* NaturalAire Microparticle Pleated, MERV 10, traps particles as small as 1 micron

* NaturalAire Elite Pleated, electrostatically charged, MERV 12, traps particles as small as .3 microns



All furnace and air conditioning replacement filters in the NaturalAire line last a maximum 90 days, and come in various sizes.



* Arm & Hammer Standard Pleated, MERV 8, traps particles 5 microns and above, contain baking soda

* Arm & Hammer Microparticle Pleated, MERV 10, traps particles as small as 1 micron, contains baking soda, electrostatically charged

* Arm & Hammer Elite Pleated, MERV 12, traps particles as small as .3 microns, contains baking soda.



All furnace and air conditioning replacement filters in the Arm & Hammer line last a maximum 90 days, and come in various sizes.



* Lysol Standard Pleated, MERV 8, traps particles 5 microns and above, contains Lysol Antimicrobial

* Lysol Plus Pleated, MERV 10, traps particles as small as 1 micron, contains Lysol Antimicrobial, electrostatically charged

* Lysol Elite Pleated, MERV 12, traps particles as small as .3 microns, contains Lysol Antimicrobial, electrostatically charged



All furnace and air conditioning replacement filters in the Lysol line last a maximum 90 days, and come in various sizes.



Flanders also offers three styles of washable/ reusable spun glass filters which trap larger particles such as dust and lint. They should be changed monthly. They also make disposable filter material that the consumer can cut into fit oddly sized filters.

For more information or pricing on Flanders Filters in NH contact Steve Kolesar at 603-548-4218 or skolesar@amsan.com

New evidence suggests electric hand dryers in public toilets pose health risk

New evidence suggests electric hand dryers in public toilets pose health risk

Posted using ShareThis

Study Finds Electric Hand Dryers Do More Harm Than Good

Study Finds Electric Hand Dryers Do More Harm Than Good

London university research finds paper towels decrease bacteria counts after washing while electric hand dryers actually increase bacteria and pose cross contamination risks

PHILADELPHIA, February 23, 2009 -- Using paper towels to dry your hands is far more hygienic than using electric hand dryers which actually increase the amount of bacteria on hands and can spread cross contamination in public washrooms, according to an independent scientific study.

The study, conducted by scientists at the University of Westminster, London, measured the number of bacteria on subjects’ hands before washing and after drying them using three different methods - paper towels, a traditional warm air dyer and a new high-speed jet air dryer.

From a hygiene standpoint, paper towels are clearly superior to electric hand dryers, according to Keith Redway, a Senior Academic in the Department of Biomedical Sciences at the University of Westminster.

Study results show that drying with paper towels results in a significant decrease in the numbers of bacteria on the hands — a clear advantage compared with the increases observed for both types of electric hand dryers tested in this study — and are far less likely to contaminate other washroom users and the washroom environment.

“Indeed, these findings suggest that if either a warm air dryer or jet air dryer is the only drying method available, in terms of bacterial numbers, a washroom user could be better off not washing and drying their hands at all,” Redway says.

The study, which is available for review at www.europeantissue.com/item.aspx?id=108, found that paper towel drying reduced the average number of bacteria on the finger pads by up to 76 percent and on the palms by up to 77 percent. By comparison, electric hand dryers actually caused bacteria counts to increase. The study showed:

• Traditional warm air dryers increased the average number of bacteria by 194 percent on the finger pads and by 254 percent on the palms.
• Jet air dryers increased the average number of bacteria on the finger pads by 42 percent and on the palms by 15 percent.

The scientists also carried out tests to establish whether there was the potential for cross contamination of other washroom users and the washroom environment as a result of each type of drying method. They found:

• The jet air dryer, which blows air out of the unit at claimed speeds of 400 mph, was capable of blowing micro-organisms from the hands and the unit and potentially contaminating other washroom users and the washroom environment up to 2 meters away.
• Use of a traditional warm air hand dryer spread micro-organisms up to 0.25 meters from the dryer.
• Paper towels showed no significant spread of micro-organisms.

“The results of all parts of this study suggest that the use of warm air dryers and jet air dryers should be carefully considered in locations where hygiene is of paramount importance, such as hospitals, clinics, schools, nurseries, care homes, kitchens and other food preparation areas,” said Redway. “In addition, paper hand towel use is highly beneficial for improved hygiene in any other facilities open to the public, such as factories, offices, bars and restaurants.”

While consumers, healthcare institutions and businesses such as restaurants are often told that electric hand dryers are the most hygienic way to dry the hands after washing them, science says otherwise. A growing body of research, including this study by the University of Westminster and
other studies as far back as 1989, suggest people could even be putting themselves at increased risk of illness by using electric hand dryers.

About the study:
A comparative study of three different hand drying methods — paper towel, warm air dryer and a new jet-air dyer — was conducted by Keith Redway and Shameem Fawdar of the School of Biosciences, University of Westminster, London, towards the end of 2008. The independent research was commissioned by the European Tissue Symposium (ETS), a trade body representing 90 percent of Europe’s tissue industry including SCA.

For the part of the experiment concerning bacteria on the hands, researchers counted the total numbers of bacteria on both finger pads and on palms. They also tested specifically for staphylococci (bacteria typically found on skin, hair and in the nose) and for coli forms which are fecal or gut bacteria.

Following a visit to a public washroom, 20 test subjects (10 male and 10 female) were asked to press their finger pads directly onto the surface of various types of agar plates before and after washing with soap and water and drying. Metal formers and swabs were used to sample bacteria from the palms of the hands before and after washing with soap and water and drying. The bacteria were then transferred to agar plates, allowed to grow and the resulting colonies counted.

To establish whether there was any potential for contamination of users and the washroom environment caused by each type of drying method, a model micro-organism (yeast) was used to artificially contaminate the hands of volunteers before they used the different methods of drying. Yeast was used as this would accurately represent the transmission of the harmful bacteria often present on hands without the risk of harming the volunteers.

AmSan is now your one-stop-source for Building Maintenance Supplies

AmSan® is now your One-Stop-Source for
Building Maintenance Supplies.

Ask for a copy of our new Facility Maintenance Products catalog with over
1,500 pages of MRO (Maintenance, Repair & Operations) supplies including:

Appliances
Electrical Maintenance Lighting Fixtures
Bulbs & Lamps
HVAC Units & Maintenance Items
Plumbing Repair & Maintenance
Bath Accessories
Hardware
Tools
Access Control
Door Hardware

AmSan continues its customer focused approach to bring you the products and services you need that deliver real solutions to you and your business. AmSan has your TOTAL solution - janitorial and cleaning products, our exclusive quality Renown® brand, e-Access® online ordering, AmSan Proforma®, AmSan University®, Green Solutions, and now a complete MRO product offering.
Streamlining and simplifying your ordering processes by offering both Janitorial and MRO products is another step in our process to decrease your operating expense and improve your bottom line. With just a single purchase order, AmSan can fulfill all your facility maintenance needs.

For more information contact Steve Kolesar at 603-548-4218 or skolesar@amsan.com or visit us online http://www.amsan.com/ or http://www.gorenown.com/
866-41-AmSan

SCORE REPORT-Green Cleaning & Cleaning For Human Health

SCORE REPORT: Green Cleaning & Cleaning for Human Health

Score Report is a school‐based organization that offers districts and campuses an opportunity to achieve green cleaning certification by engaging in SCORE, a cost‐managed curriculum designed to address the considerable challenges surrounding cleaning school buildings today. The program encompasses the use of eco‐sensitive products and procedures along with a full and comprehensive training program that raises awareness and promotes health and safety of everyone involved.

Green Cleaning and Cleaning for Human Health go hand in hand. The prudent selection and application of disinfectants are a critical component to SCORE and all members receive comprehensive training on the Principles of Disinfection.

Members have a selection of products to help prevent the spread of the H1N1 Influenza:

Disinfectants – EPA compliant, neutral pH, no added perfume or artificial coloring
Hand Cleaners- Green Seal Certified
Facial Tissue –Green Seal Certified, Eco-Logo Certified, EPA Compliant
Touch-Free Towel & Tissue Systems – Green Seal Certified, Eco-Logo Certified
Touch-Free Hand Sanitizer & Soap Dispensing Systems
Gloves, Masks & Additional Personal Protection Equipment
Disinfecting Wipes – neutral pH, recyclable containers

For more information please visit us online at http://www.scorereport.org/

Contact: Jim Sheffer, Director of Sustainable Building Care
Phone: 618.924.0272
E-mail: info@scorereport.org

Eaccess-Order Your Janitorial, Cleaning & Industrial Supplies Online!

Online ordering that’s convenient, fast and efficient… Online management tools for effective business control.

Getting started is simple. Just call your AmSan sales representative for your secure, e-Access® user ID. And remember you can always count on your AmSan representative whenever you need support. Working with AmSan has never been easier.

Online Ordering – it’s quick and it’s easy. With just a few clicks of your mouse, you can place your order online effortlessly with e-Access. Review extended product descriptions and photos, print your MSDS, and track the delivery of your order, all from the convenience of your computer without ever picking up the phone. Within minutes of placing your order, an e-mail confirmation will be sent detailing product availability and delivery status.

Custom Order Pads
Create custom order pads with your own part numbers
different order pads for each of your departments

Simplify the order process for your employees, eliminating errors and improving employee productivity Order Approval Controls

Your employees can initiate orders while you retain the ability to review and approve orders
multiple approval levels

Once you approve an order, a confirmation e-mail is sent to the order’s originator Budget Controls
track your monthly or yearly budgets

Track by location or department

No need to invest in expensive budgeting software – e-Access is an extension of your business – all at no additional cost to youInventory Controls
printable inventory count sheets

e-Access can automatically build your order to your specified min/max inventory values
approval functionality lets you restrict orders to predetermined dollar levelsQueriesRetrieve information from e-Access the way you want it, anytime you want it, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Instant information is at your fingertips and is only a few clicks away.

Customer Usage Reports – gain control of your purchases. This report allows you to track and print your total usage and spend by item for any time period and can be sorted by item number or purchase volume to let you manage your purchases your way. Get a hard copy of your report right away - no more waiting for someone else to produce reports and send them to you

Open Orders Status – prevent duplication by reviewing open orders, delivery status, and backorders

Proof-of-Delivery – PODs with signatures are available right on your desktop anytime you need them

Invoices – view open or closed invoices online or print for easy reconciliation

Accounts Receivable – view or print your current and past-due balances

Purchase/Invoice History – sort by item, by invoice or order, or by PO over any range of dates

MSDS – print and have in place Material Safety Data Sheets before your products hit your delivery dock. Need an MSDS in the middle of the night? It’s only a few mouse clicks away anytime of day or night

Secure Sitee-Access is user ID and password protected. No unauthorized user can gain access to your company’s AmSan information…it’s your private domain.

Buy from AmSan the quick, convenient way with e-Access®… and improve your management controls at the same time. Just visit http://eaccess.amsan.com/…we’re always open.

For more information on Eaccess or to get your own personal login information contact Steve Kolesar in NH at 603-548-4218 or skolesar@amsan.com

IS YOUR SCHOOL GREEN? TAKE THE SCORE CHALLENGE!

Dear Fellow School Officials:

Connecticut and Maryland have joined a growing list of states that have passed into law legislation similar to that already in place in Illinois and New York that mandates green cleaning in elementary and secondary schools. At the present, there are a total of 17 states that have already adopted a green cleaning procurement policy of one nature or another. Education leaders throughout the country are grappling with the realities that come with the understanding that the status quo is unacceptable in addressing custodial operations going forward.

In Illinois the state invited the Schools of Illinois Public Cooperative (SIPC) and our sustainable building consultant, Jim Sheffer, to join a select group of individuals and organizations entrusted with the task of drafting guidelines and specifications for the purpose of implementing the Illinois Green Cleaning School Act. The final version of the guidelines and specifications set forth a series of required and recommended practices to improve the health and environment of elementary and secondary schools in Illinois.

School Cleaning Organizational Redesign for the Environment (SCORE) was developed by Mr. Sheffer to offer school districts, community colleges, and universities opportunity to engage in a coordinated cost management curriculum designed to address the considerable challenges surrounding cleaning school buildings today: declining budgets, staff turnover, and ever demanding governmental regulations fueled by increased public health awareness. SCORE encompasses the use of eco-sensitive products and procedures along with full and comprehensive matrix and training components that raise awareness and promotes the health and safety of everyone involved. The program is self-funded with the purchase of eco-sensitive products procured from AmSan with pricing reflective of that negotiated by the Schools of Illinois Public Cooperative.

I beg you to ask the question, “IS YOUR SCHOOL GREEN”. If not, take the SCORE challenge.

Respectfully,
Dr. Kevin SettleSIPC Chairman

For more information on SCORE or how to Green your School please contact Steve Kolesar in NH at 603-548-4218 or skolesar@amsan.com you can also visit us online at http://www.scorereport.org/

2009 H1N1 FLU (SWINE FLU) AND YOU

What is 2009 H1N1 (swine flu)?
2009 H1N1 (referred to as “swine flu” early on) is a new influenza virus causing illness in people. This new virus was first detected in people in the United States in April 2009. This virus is spreading from person-to-person worldwide, probably in much the same way that regular seasonal influenza viruses spread. On June 11, 2009, the World Health Organization (WHO) signaled that a pandemic of 2009 H1N1 flu was underway.

Why is 2009 H1N1 virus sometimes called “swine flu”?
This virus was originally referred to as “swine flu” because laboratory testing showed that many of the genes in this new virus were very similar to influenza viruses that normally occur in pigs (swine) in North America. But further study has shown that this new virus is very different from what normally circulates in North American pigs. It has two genes from flu viruses that normally circulate in pigs in Europe and Asia and bird (avian) genes and human genes. Scientists call this a "quadruple reassortant" virus.

2009 H1N1 Flu in Humans

Are there human infections with 2009 H1N1 virus in the U.S.?
Yes. Human infections with the new H1N1 virus are ongoing in the United States. Most people who have become ill with this new virus have recovered without requiring medical treatment.
CDC routinely works with states to collect, compile and analyze information about influenza, and has done the same for the new H1N1 virus since the beginning of the outbreak. This information is presented in a weekly report, called FluView.

Is 2009 H1N1 virus contagious?
CDC has determined that 2009 H1N1 virus is contagious and is spreading from human to human.

How does 2009 H1N1 virus spread?
Spread of 2009 H1N1 virus is thought to occur in the same way that seasonal flu spreads. Flu viruses are spread mainly from person to person through coughing or sneezing by people with influenza. Sometimes people may become infected by touching something – such as a surface or object – with flu viruses on it and then touching their mouth or nose.

What are the signs and symptoms of this virus in people?
The symptoms of 2009 H1N1 flu virus in people include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. A significant number of people who have been infected with this virus also have reported diarrhea and vomiting. Severe illnesses and death has occurred as a result of illness associated with this virus.

How severe is illness associated with 2009 H1N1 flu virus?
Illness with the new H1N1 virus has ranged from mild to severe. While most people who have been sick have recovered without needing medical treatment, hospitalizations and deaths from infection with this virus have occurred.

In seasonal flu, certain people are at “high risk” of serious complications. This includes people 65 years and older, children younger than five years old, pregnant women, and people of any age with certain chronic medical conditions. About 70 percent of people who have been hospitalized with this 2009 H1N1 virus have had one or more medical conditions previously recognized as placing people at “high risk” of serious seasonal flu-related complications. This includes pregnancy, diabetes, heart disease, asthma and kidney disease.

One thing that appears to be different from seasonal influenza is that adults older than 64 years do not yet appear to be at increased risk of 2009 H1N1-related complications thus far. CDC laboratory studies have shown that no children and very few adults younger than 60 years old have existing antibody to 2009 H1N1 flu virus; however, about one-third of adults older than 60 may have antibodies against this virus. It is unknown how much, if any, protection may be afforded against 2009 H1N1 flu by any existing antibody.

How does 2009 H1N1 flu compare to seasonal flu in terms of its severity and infection rates?
With seasonal flu, we know that seasons vary in terms of timing, duration and severity. Seasonal influenza can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. Each year, in the United States, on average 36,000 people die from flu-related complications and more than 200,000 people are hospitalized from flu-related causes. Of those hospitalized, 20,000 are children younger than 5 years old. Over 90% of deaths and about 60 percent of hospitalization occur in people older than 65.

When the 2009 H1N1 outbreak was first detected in mid-April 2009, CDC began working with states to collect, compile and analyze information regarding the 2009 H1N1 flu outbreak, including the numbers of confirmed and probable cases and the ages of these people. The information analyzed by CDC supports the conclusion that 2009 H1N1 flu has caused greater disease burden in people younger than 25 years of age than older people. At this time, there are few cases and few deaths reported in people older than 64 years old, which is unusual when compared with seasonal flu. However, pregnancy and other previously recognized high risk medical conditions from seasonal influenza appear to be associated with increased risk of complications from this 2009 H1N1. These underlying conditions include asthma, diabetes, suppressed immune systems, heart disease, kidney disease, neurocognitive and neuromuscular disorders and pregnancy.

How long can an infected person spread this virus to others?
People infected with seasonal and 2009 H1N1 flu shed virus and may be able to infect others from 1 day before getting sick to 5 to 7 days after. This can be longer in some people, especially children and people with weakened immune systems and in people infected with the new H1N1 virus.

Prevention & Treatment

What can I do to protect myself from getting sick?
There is no vaccine available right now to protect against 2009 H1N1 virus. However, a 2009 H1N1 vaccine is currently in production and may be ready for the public in the fall. As always, a vaccine will be available to protect against seasonal influenza
There are everyday actions that can help prevent the spread of germs that cause respiratory illnesses like influenza.

Take these everyday steps to protect your health:

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners* are also effective.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way.
• Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
• If you are sick with flu-like illness, CDC recommends that you stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone except to get medical care or for other necessities. (Your fever should be gone without the use of a fever-reducing medicine.) Keep away from others as much as possible to keep from making others sick.

Other important actions that you can take are:

• Follow public health advice regarding school closures, avoiding crowds and other social distancing measures.
• Be prepared in case you get sick and need to stay home for a week or so; a supply of over-the-counter medicines, alcohol-based hand rubs,* tissues and other related items might could be useful and help avoid the need to make trips out in public while you are sick and contagious

What is the best way to keep from spreading the virus through coughing or sneezing?
If you are sick with flu-like illness, CDC recommends that you stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone except to get medical care or for other necessities. (Your fever should be gone without the use of a fever-reducing medicine.)
Keep away from others as much as possible. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. Put your used tissue in the waste basket. Then, clean your hands, and do so every time you cough or sneeze.

If I have a family member at home who is sick with 2009 H1N1 flu, should I go to work?
Employees who are well but who have an ill family member at home with 2009 H1N1 flu can go to work as usual. These employees should monitor their health every day, and take everyday precautions including washing their hands often with soap and water, especially after they cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.* If they become ill, they should notify their supervisor and stay home. Employees who have an underlying medical condition or who are pregnant should call their health care provider for advice, because they might need to receive influenza antiviral drugs to prevent illness. For more information please see General Business and Workplace Guidance for the Prevention of Novel Influenza A (H1N1) Flu in Workers.

What is the best technique for washing my hands to avoid getting the flu?
Washing your hands often will help protect you from germs. Wash with soap and water or clean with alcohol-based hand cleaner*. CDC recommends that when you wash your hands -- with soap and warm water -- that you wash for 15 to 20 seconds. When soap and water are not available, alcohol-based disposable hand wipes or gel sanitizers may be used. You can find them in most supermarkets and drugstores. If using gel, rub your hands until the gel is dry. The gel doesn't need water to work; the alcohol in it kills the germs on your hands.

What should I do if I get sick?
If you live in areas where people have been identified with 2009 H1N1 flu and become ill with influenza-like symptoms, including fever, body aches, runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, nausea, or vomiting or diarrhea, you should stay home and avoid contact with other people. CDC recommends that you stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone except to get medical care or for other necessities. (Your fever should be gone without the use of a fever-reducing medicine.) Stay away from others as much as possible to keep from making others sick.Staying at home means that you should not leave your home except to seek medical care. This means avoiding normal activities, including work, school, travel, shopping, social events, and public gatherings.

If you have severe illness or you are at high risk for flu complications, contact your health care provider or seek medical care. Your health care provider will determine whether flu testing or treatment is needed.

If you become ill and experience any of the following warning signs, seek emergency medical care.

In children, emergency warning signs that need urgent medical attention include:

• Fast breathing or trouble breathing
• Bluish or gray skin color
• Not drinking enough fluids
• Severe or persistent vomiting
• Not waking up or not interacting
• Being so irritable that the child does not want to be held
• Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough

In adults, emergency warning signs that need urgent medical attention include:

• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
• Sudden dizziness
• Confusion
• Severe or persistent vomiting
• Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough

Are there medicines to treat 2009 H1N1 infection?
Yes. CDC recommends the use of oseltamivir or zanamivir for the treatment and/or prevention of infection with 2009 H1N1 flu virus. Antiviral drugs are prescription medicines (pills, liquid or an inhaled powder) that fight against the flu by keeping flu viruses from reproducing in your body. If you get sick, antiviral drugs can make your illness milder and make you feel better faster. They may also prevent serious flu complications. During the current pandemic, the priority use for influenza antiviral drugs is to treat severe influenza illness (for example hospitalized patients) and people who are sick who have a condition that places them at high risk for serious flu-related complications.

What is CDC’s recommendation regarding "swine flu parties"?
"Swine flu parties" are gatherings during which people have close contact with a person who has 2009 H1N1 flu in order to become infected with the virus. The intent of these parties is for a person to become infected with what for many people has been a mild disease, in the hope of having natural immunity 2009 H1N1 flu virus that might circulate later and cause more severe disease.

CDC does not recommend "swine flu parties" as a way to protect against 2009 H1N1 flu in the future. While the disease seen in the current 2009 H1N1 flu outbreak has been mild for many people, it has been severe and even fatal for others. There is no way to predict with certainty what the outcome will be for an individual or, equally important, for others to whom the intentionally infected person may spread the virus.

CDC recommends that people with 2009 H1N1 flu avoid contact with others as much as possible. If you are sick with flu-like illness, CDC recommends that you stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone except to get medical care or for other necessities. (Your fever should be gone without the use of a fever-reducing medicine.) Stay away from others as much as possible to keep from making others sick.

Contamination & Cleaning

How long can influenza virus remain viable on objects (such as books and doorknobs)?
Studies have shown that influenza virus can survive on environmental surfaces and can infect a person for 2 to 8 hours after being deposited on the surface.

What kills influenza virus?
Influenza virus is destroyed by heat (167-212°F [75-100°C]). In addition, several chemical germicides, including chlorine, hydrogen peroxide, detergents (soap), iodophors (iodine-based antiseptics), and alcohols are effective against human influenza viruses if used in proper concentration for a sufficient length of time. For example, wipes or gels with alcohol in them can be used to clean hands. The gels should be rubbed into hands until they are dry.

*What if soap and water are not available and alcohol-based products are not allowed in my facility?
Though the scientific evidence is not as extensive as that on hand washing and alcohol-based sanitizers, other hand sanitizers that do not contain alcohol may be useful for killing flu germs on hands.

What surfaces are most likely to be sources of contamination?
Germs can be spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose, or mouth. Droplets from a cough or sneeze of an infected person move through the air. Germs can be spread when a person touches respiratory droplets from another person on a surface like a desk, for example, and then touches their own eyes, mouth or nose before washing their hands.

How should waste disposal be handled to prevent the spread of influenza virus?
To prevent the spread of influenza virus, it is recommended that tissues and other disposable items used by an infected person be thrown in the trash. Additionally, persons should wash their hands with soap and water after touching used tissues and similar waste.

What household cleaning should be done to prevent the spread of influenza virus?
To prevent the spread of influenza virus it is important to keep surfaces (especially bedside tables, surfaces in the bathroom, kitchen counters and toys for children) clean by wiping them down with a household disinfectant according to directions on the product label.

How should linens, eating utensils and dishes of persons infected with influenza virus be handled?
Linens, eating utensils, and dishes belonging to those who are sick do not need to be cleaned separately, but importantly these items should not be shared without washing thoroughly first.
Linens (such as bed sheets and towels) should be washed by using household laundry soap and tumbled dry on a hot setting. Individuals should avoid “hugging” laundry prior to washing it to prevent contaminating themselves. Individuals should wash their hands with soap and water or alcohol-based hand rub immediately after handling dirty laundry.

Eating utensils should be washed either in a dishwasher or by hand with water and soap.

Exposures Not Thought to Spread 2009 H1N1 Flu

Can I get infected with 2009 H1N1 virus from eating or preparing pork?
No. 2009 H1N1 viruses are not spread by food. You cannot get infected with novel HIN1 virus from eating pork or pork products. Eating properly handled and cooked pork products is safe.

Is there a risk from drinking water?
Tap water that has been treated by conventional disinfection processes does not likely pose a risk for transmission of influenza viruses. Current drinking water treatment regulations provide a high degree of protection from viruses. No research has been completed on the susceptibility of 2009 H1N1 flu virus to conventional drinking water treatment processes. However, recent studies have demonstrated that free chlorine levels typically used in drinking water treatment are adequate to inactivate highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza. It is likely that other influenza viruses such as 2009 H1N1 would also be similarly inactivated by chlorination. To date, there have been no documented human cases of influenza caused by exposure to influenza-contaminated drinking water.

Can 2009 H1N1 flu virus be spread through water in swimming pools, spas, water parks, interactive fountains, and other treated recreational water venues?
Influenza viruses infect the human upper respiratory tract. There has never been a documented case of influenza virus infection associated with water exposure. Recreational water that has been treated at CDC recommended disinfectant levels does not likely pose a risk for transmission of influenza viruses. No research has been completed on the susceptibility of 2009 H1N1 influenza virus to chlorine and other disinfectants used in swimming pools, spas, water parks, interactive fountains, and other treated recreational venues. However, recent studies have demonstrated that free chlorine levels recommended by CDC (1–3 parts per million [ppm or mg/L] for pools and 2–5 ppm for spas) are adequate to disinfect avian influenza A (H5N1) virus. It is likely that other influenza viruses such as 2009 H1N1 virus would also be similarly disinfected by chlorine.

Can 2009 H1N1 influenza virus be spread at recreational water venues outside of the water?

Yes, recreational water venues are no different than any other group setting. The spread of this 2009 H1N1 flu is thought to be happening in the same way that seasonal flu spreads. Flu viruses are spread mainly from person to person through coughing or sneezing of people with influenza. Sometimes people may become infected by touching something with flu viruses on it and then touching their mouth or nose.

Note: Much of the information in this document is based on studies and past experience with seasonal (human) influenza. CDC believes the information applies to 2009 H1N1 (swine) viruses as well, but studies on this virus are ongoing to learn more about its characteristics. This document will be updated as new information becomes available.

AmSan Now Carries Spartan Chemicals

AmSan the Nations Largest Distributor of Janitorial and Cleaning Supplies now carries the Full Line of Spartan Chemicals.

Spartan Chemical Company, Inc. is a manufacturer of Chemical Specialty Maintenance Products and Industrial Degreasers committed to enhancing its strong leadership position in the industry through substantial investment of time, money and resources. We have greatly expanded physical production capabilities, as well as committed vast capital to research and development. Advanced I.T. capabilities teamed with aggressive marketing programs reinforce Spartan's ultimate goal: to lead the industry as one who not only listens and responds to current customer needs, but anticipates and formulates Environment and User friendly programs, systems and products that assist customers in handling the ever changing paradigms of environmental sanitation.

Spartan Chemical Company values its people as one of its greatest resources. Our Regional Managers and headquarters staff are each highly-trained individuals that reinforce Spartan's leading edge reputation.		Knowledgeable specialists in the Building Service Contractor Market Segment; Custodial Maintenance Management Software applications; BioAugmentation systems; Food Processing systems, and Industrial Products travel around the country to offer end-users hands-on assistance.
	WHAT WE CAN DO FOR YOU Educate our users on the latest technology Introduce Maintenance Service Management Systems to end users Hold in-service training programs for schools, nursing homes, hospitals and industry Assist compliance with EPA, OSHA, DOT, USDA and other regulatory agencies Introduce new products and programs Solve maintenance problems Trouble shoot Assist in Risk Management Environmentally Sound ...User Friendly Solutions to Your Maintenance Problems

PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATIONS
Spartan associates work everyday to improve the industry with active membership and participation in professional and industry related associations. This dedication enhances our ability to fully serve customer needs.

International Sanitary Supply Association (ISSA) Canadian Sanitary Supply Association (CSSA) Building Services Contractor Assc. International (BSCAI) American Management Association (AMA) International Executive Housekeeping Assc. (IEHA) National Assc. of Wholesalers/Distributors (NAW) American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) Chemical Specialties Manufacturers Assc. (CSMA) National Paper Trade Association (NPTS) Society of Tribiologist and Lubrication Engineers (STLE) Society of Manufacturing Association (ASMMA)

Industrial Distributors Association (IDA) Precision Metalforming Association (PMA) Assc. for Professionals in Infection Control & Epidermiology (APIC) American Society for Healthcare Environment Services (ASHES) American Concrete Institute (ACI) Carpet and Upholstery Institute (CUI) National Association of Credit Management (NACM) National Association of Purchasing Managers (NAPM) Chemical and Allied Industries of Northwest Ohio (CAI/NWO) North American Meat Processors (NAMP) American Association of Meat Processors (AAMP) American Meat Institute (AMI)

Information Technologies
Spartan Chemical is on the cutting edge of communications technology. Whatever your requirement, Spartan provides quick response to your needs through:

	24-hour-a-day telephone and voice mail access Fax and Toll-Free numbers Fax-On-Demand Electronic Bulletin Board EDI (Electronic Data Interchange) Company-wide E-Mail Three Web Sites Product Bar Coding Online e-commerce for authorized distributors

Research, Development, Quality Control and Technical Support Spartan's on-site, state of the art laboratory facility is fully equipped and staffed by a director of research, microbiologists, bioaugmentation specialists, metalworking chemical specialists, formulation chemists and quality control technicians. GLP (Good Laboratory Practices) Innovators! In-house research, development and testing provide consistent, new product concepts and formulas. All raw materials and production batches exceed stringent requirements of Spartan's Quality Assured Performance Program Laboratory approved, code-dated samples from each production batch are retained for one year Immediate technical assistance Product analysis and evaluation

©2008 Spartan Chemical Company, Inc.

AmSan Partners Up With Energy Management Consultants

Energy Management Consultants, Inc.

Providing our customers with the most state-of-the-art, energy efficient lighting systems available today!

EMC has established itself as a highly regarded energy management company serving clients in the commercial, industrial, retail, and institutional sectors throughout New England and New York since 1993.

Our turn-key services offer our customers a 1-step, single point of contact approach to implementing upgrades.

Energy Analysis
EMC’s Lighting Software
Incentives/ Rebates/Tax Deductions
Project Management
Financing Services
Guaranteed Savings

Energy Analysis: Our initial assessment begins with a complete analysis of the current equipment being used in your facility. EMC is then able to determine the appropriate measures of energy conservation to deliver a summary of energy saving potentials to you, the customer. We want our customers to make decisions based on information, opportunity and priority .

EMC’s Lighting Software:The EMC "Lighting Surveyor" is a proprietary custom-developed software package that supports EMC's lighting upgrade methodology. The core of this methodology is the "Conservation Measure.” A conservation measure specifies a "from" and a "to." It might involve replacing entire fixtures or sets of fixtures, re-lamping existing fixtures, or the installation of lighting control devices such as motion sensor switches. A Lighting Survey involves capturing a set of conservation measures to be applied along with ancillary information such as usage patterns, room numbers, etc. that can vary on a fixture by fixture basis. Lighting Surveyor calculates project and per-fixture cost savings taking into account complex utility rate plans, lighting usage patterns, and indirect (e.g. maintenance) costs. It incorporates per-project quotes for labor, material, and disposal to calculate net cost savings on both a per-fixture and project basis. A wide variety of analysis and project management reports can be generated including project role-up, cost-savings, RFQ's, PO's, work orders, etc. Key reports can be output to Microsoft Word or Excel for electronic communication with partners. Lighting Surveyor also supports Lighting Management activities via the same survey used for lighting upgrades with an additional set of reports.

Incentives/ Rebates/Tax Deductions: Most local, state and federal utilities offer consumers rebates and incentives for reducing their energy consumption. EMC maintains a knowledgeable staff and database of all incentives available for our customers. In addition, the Federal Government (EPAct 05) is currently offering incentives in the form of tax deductions. EMC will analyze our customer’s application and provide all administrative services to maximize both utility incentives and government tax deductions.

Project Management: The primary focus of our turn-key upgrades is to allow our customers to continue to focus on their business at hand.

• Material Management – including ordering, receiving, storage, inventory and returns.
• Project Management of electrical sub-contractors – insuring on time, on budget installation.
• Project Timeline – setting start and completion dates to meet customer’s needs.
• Project Tracking – periodic (as appropriate) review and reporting of project progress.
• Customer problem solving.
• Follow through - post customer and utility walkthroughs to assure complete customer satisfaction.

Financing Services : Businesses today are sometimes faced with constrained budgets. EMC will assist our customers with financing plans that allow for the savings to cover the cost of financing. This approach eliminates the need for capital monies in turn, helping our customers implement energy savings projects.

Guaranteed Savings: EMC will guarantee kW reductions.


For more information or to schedule your Free Energy Saving Audit please contact Steve Kolesar-AmSan Sales Rep in NH at 603-548-4218 or skolesar@amsan.com

Why Your Cleaning Company Should Buy From Janitorial Distributors !

There is no getting around it - your cleaning business needs high quality cleaning supplies and equipment so you and your employees can effectively do the job of taking care of your clients' buildings. There are several places you can buy the chemicals you need to clean. Over 50% of the respondents to a recent survey done by thejanitorialstore.com showed they buy their supplies from a big box retailer. But there is a better solution to buying cleaning supplies and equipment than purchasing Lysol, 409, or window cleaner from a large retail store. A janitorial supplies distributor can supply your cleaning company with professional products and much more.

At first glance the cleaning products bought through a janitorial distributor may seem to be higher in cost than the products bought from a big box retailer. However, the professional quality products you get from a distributor are higher quality products that clean better and more efficiently.

Distributors have products available in concentrated form, which means a small amount goes a long way. You'll actually be spending less than you would if you bought from a retailer. The price may initially seem higher, but once you see how far concentrates stretch just by adding water, you will see that buying cleaning products in a concentrated form is a bargain. Distributors may also offer quantity discounts for high volume purchases.

In addition to higher quality products and the ability to offer volume discounts, there are many other reasons that your cleaning business will benefit from doing business with a janitorial supplies distributor:

Distributors keep records of the items that you buy. They also keep track of warranty information. Distributors can also provide you with MSDS sheets and OSHA's right to know information on the cleaning products that you buy from them. As you know, you're required to have MSDS sheets on all cleaning chemicals you use and have them available for your employees. Most retailers won't be able to offer MSDS sheets.

Janitorial supply distributors have in-depth product knowledge. Looking for a product to give your restrooms a "fresh smell"? Forget about buying Pinesol from a retailer. Pinesol has a strong smell that people may find offensive. A distributor will be able to recommend a suitable air freshener for your particular situation. A good distributor can recommend products and will know if a lower priced product is just as effective as a higher priced item.

Don't know how to use a cleaning product or piece of equipment? Your distributor will be able to train you and your employees on how to use new products and equipment properly. Your distributor will also be able to share information on how to use products that can help your staff become more efficient. Rather than saving just a few pennies by buying a product from a retailer, you can save a substantial amount in labor savings with the product information you can get from a distributor.

Equipment breakdown? Some distributors may even offer repair service for your cleaning equipment saving you the time and headaches of sending your equipment back to the manufacturer for repairs.

Do you need a specialized cleaning product for a building or job? Your distributor will have suggestions for the product you need and if he does not have it on hand will know where to order it from.

Pricing alone should not dictate where you buy the supplies for your cleaning business. The value you get by buying cleaning supplies from an experienced distributor is priceless. Rather than saving a dollar or two on cleaning products by buying through a big box store, you can save hundreds of dollars on staff time by working with your distributor. And those savings will lead directly to more profit in your pocket!

Copyright 2006 The Janitorial Store

For a location near you please contact AmSan-Americas leading distributor of janitorial and cleaning products or visit us online at www.amsan.com or www.gorenonwn.com

Butchers Outpost Dilution Unit-Simple, Safe & Economical.

OutpostTM/MC - The simple, safe, flexible & economical unit

The compact dispensing system that dilutes multiple products from a single unit


*COLOR AND NUMBER CODED LABELS with use icons for easy identification.


*EASY TO HANDLE BOTTLES and simple unit engagement make product changes a snap. Bottle locks in place.



*CONTROL KNOB locks on for hands free bucket fill, but requires manual hold for safer bottle fill.



*TWO FILLING PORTS for safer, low-flow bottle fill and fast, high-flow bucket fill.



*CONVENIENT HOSE HANDLE clips onto buckets and equipment for hands-free fillings.




*SIMPLE USE ICONS for easy identification.



*TOUGH PLASTIC EXTERIOR for years of use.



*SEALED BOTTLE is leak-resistant for worker safety.

For more information on all of the Butchers Products contact Steve Kolesar in NH at 603-548-4218 or skolesar@amsan.com or online at www.amsanne.com

Butchers RTD Dispensing System-Simple, Reliable & Accurate.

RTD Dispensing System

RTD™ Dispensing System- Our latest innovation in dispensing technology

Every facility can now afford the benefits of dilution control




A new dispenser with every bottle that assures you 24 / 7 / 365 reliability

No service requirements increases productivity with no down time

With no equipment to buy, you can have more dispensers in your facility increasing efficiency by decreasing trips to the supply closet

Ready-to-dispense right out of the box.



No Maintenance, No Equipment Cost Dispensing Setting New Standards in:

Simplicity
EASY TO USE. Requires virtually no training.
· SIMPLE INSTALLATION. Use right out of the box. No product or metering devices to connect.
· EASY TO UNDERSTAND CONTROL KNOB. Simple icons indicate different positions.
· INTUITIVE DESIGN makes operation a snap.

* Operating instructions enclosed in each case.

Economy
· SUPERCONCENTRATED PRODUCTS deliver more gallons of RTU products than conventional packaging.
· BUILT-IN DILUTION TIPS. Pre-installed metering ensures accuracy and eliminates over-use.

Versatility
· DIFFERENT FILL RATES. High flow for efficiency, low flow for low foam.
· PORTABILITY - EASY TO CARRY. Makes transporting convenient.
· COMPACT DESIGN. Fits in small places and can be wall mounted with optional kits

Accuracy
· PATENTED CHEMICAL METERING SYSTEM. Precision metering disks ensure consistent and accurate dilution.
· LINEAR VACUUM PROFILE. Vacuum changes with pressure to ensure proper chemical metering.

Safety
· NO CHEMICAL CONNECTIONS. The dispenser is a permanent part of the package, ensuring proper connection and no exposure to concentrate.
· SEALED BOTTLE. No contact with concentrated chemical increases worker safety.
· SPECIALLY DESIGNED HANDLE. Promotes proper use while decreasing chance of error while operating.

For more information on Butchers Complete product line contact Steve Kolesar in NH at 603-548-4218 or skolesar@amsan.com or visit us online at http://www.amsanne.com/

AmSan-Authorized Butchers Janitorial Supplies Distributor in NH & ME

March 24, 2009

To Whom It May Concern:

RE: Butcher Distribution Excellence

Butcher’s has for decades focused on providing the highest valued services in the industry. For
this reason, we seek out local distributors that have demonstrated a commitment to this same
philosophy.

We carefully select our distributor partners who can provide an array of professional services to
match our proven products such as training, customer service & technical support, and that will
maintain sufficient warehouse stock to provide unmatched customer satisfaction.

AmSan New England for more than 50 years showed the commitment to excellence, earning
their place as an authorized Butcher distributor for the New Hampshire and Maine area.

The purpose of this letter is to announce to our valued customers that AmSan, effective March
25th 2009 will be an authorized Butchers Distributors; specific to Maine and New Hampshire.

Should you have any questions, feel free to call me directly @ 716-650-4033 or Jerry Womack,
Manufacturer District Sales Manager for the North East @ 978-223-1639 or Steve Kolesar at 603-548-4218

Thank you for choosing Butcher’s.

Sincerely,


Area Vice President -Northeast

8310 16th Street
Sturtevant, WI 53177
Phone (716) 650-4033

Swine Flu Prevention-What Can You Do to Avoid Swine Influenza

The Department of Health and Human Services has declared a public health emergency in the United States in response to the rise in the number of confirmed cases reported of Swine Influenza (H1N1).

According to the CDC, person-to-person transmission of flu occurs mainly through coughing or sneezing of people infected with the influenza virus. People may become infected by touching something with the flu viruses on it and then touching their mouths or noses.
Guidance published by the CDC for infection control advises that "disinfection strategies used during influenza seasons can be applied to the environmental management of swine influenza." Additional guidance published for infection control recommends keeping "surfaces (especially tables, surfaces in the bathroom, and toys for children) clean by wiping them down with a disinfectant according to directions on the product label."

The CDC currently recommends the following precautionary measures:
• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hands cleaners are also effective.
• Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
• If you get sick, CDC recommends that you stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way.

For the products and supplies needed to combat the Swine Flu virus, including disinfectants, hand sanitizers, hand soap, gloves & masks.
Contact Steve Kolesar, AmSan Sales Rep in NH, at skolesar@amsan.com or visit us online at www.amsanne.com or www.gorenown.com

AmSan Joins the Premier Group as a Preferred Supplier

Hospitals, healthcare providers to save with Premier’s new paper and janitorial supply distribution agreements
CHARLOTTE, N.C.(November 6, 2008)– Premier Purchasing Partners, LP, today announced news agreements for paper and janitorial supply distribution have been awarded to AmSan LLC of Deerfield, Ill.; Afflink Inc. of Tuscaloosa, Ala.; Network Services Company of Mount Prospect, Ill.; and Unisource Worldwide Inc. of Norcross, Ga.
Effective November 1, 2008, the agreements are available to acute care and continuum of care members of the Premier healthcare alliance.
About Premier Inc., 2006 Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award recipient
Serving more than 2,100 U.S. hospitals and 53,000-plus other healthcare sites, the Premier healthcare alliance and its members are transforming healthcare together. Owned by not-for-profit hospitals, Premier operates one of the leading healthcare purchasing networks and the nation's most comprehensive repository of hospital clinical and financial information. A subsidiary operates one of the nation's largest policy-holder owned, hospital professional liability risk-retention groups. A world leader in helping healthcare providers deliver dramatic improvements in care, Premier is working with the United Kingdom's National Health Service North West and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services to improve hospital performance. Headquartered in San Diego, Premier has offices in Charlotte, N.C., Philadelphia and Washington. For more information, visit www.premierinc.com .
For more information on AmSan products and services in NH contact Steve Kolesar at skolesar@amsan.com or visit our website at www.amsanne.com

AmSan Launches New MRO Products Catalog

AmSan the nations largest distributor of Cleaning & Janitorial Supplies has just launched a brand new MRO supplies catalog containing over 20,000 items in categories such as Electrical & Lighting, HVAC, Plumbing, Appliances, Security & Hardware and much more. All industrial supplies will we warehoused in our brand new state of the art, 212,000 sq ft warehouse in Auburn, MA which means 24-48 hour turnaround on all orders. Our pricing is very competetive in the marketplace to companies such as Grainger, McMaster Carr, and MSC supply. I invite you to take a look at AmSan-Your True One stop resource for all of your Facility Maintenance Supplies. For more information on products and pricing please contact Steve Kolesar in NH at skolesar@amsan.com

OVERVIEW OF GREEN CLEANING IN SCHOOLS

Green Schools Initiative, September 2008

Schools, Cleaners and Children’s Environmental Health

Cleaning products used in schools contain an array of hazardous chemicals, including carcinogens, reproductive toxins, neurotoxins, and chemicals that cause asthma, and they contribute to poor indoor air quality and smog formation. These cleaning chemicals are also routinely washed down the drain where they find their way into drinking water, lakes and streams, adversely affecting plant and animal life, threatening public health and adding to pollution. The cleaning industry consumes six billion pounds of chemicals annually, including non-renewable resources such as petroleum.

Today there are hundreds of less-toxic cleaning products available on the market that are cost-effective and perform well. One-fifth of Americans spends their day in one of our 120,000 schools. Children spend 90 percent of their day indoors in a school and are more vulnerable to chemical exposures. There is no reason for children – or teachers, custodians or school staff – to be unnecessarily exposed to these chemicals at school. The states of New York and Illinois have already passed laws requiring schools to use environmentally-sensitive cleaners, and more states have bills pending. Many school districts across the country are voluntarily making the switch.

Health and Environmental Effects of Cleaners

Industrial and institutional cleaners have numerous hazardous ingredients:

* 30% of cleaners used in schools are known to cause human health or environmental problems.
* Chemicals of concern found in cleaners: phthalates, glycol ethers, ethanolamines, quaternary ammonium compounds, Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), formaldehyde, benzene, and many, many more.
* 12% of work-related asthma can be linked to cleaning product exposure (Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, May 2003). Teachers and custodians have much higher incidence of asthma compared to the general workforce (National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health)
* Six out of every one hundred janitors in Santa Clara County, California experience chemical-related injuries such as serious burns to the eyes or skin. Santa Clara County spends about $750,000 per year on medical expenses and lost job time for these chemical-related injuries (Center for New American Dream). Washington State reports similar experiences with janitorial injuries (US EPA 2007)
* Animal studies indicate chemicals in cleaners can cause birth defects, cancer, and reproductive harm (Women’s Voices for the Earth).
* Indoor air pollution can be up to 100 times higher than outdoor levels after some cleaning activities, especially regarding VOCs. VOC levels after cleaning can exceed safety levels established for industrial settings (California Air Resources Board, April 2006).
* In California, nearly one million children have asthma. Asthma is the main cause of hospitalization for children under 15 and is the primary cause of school absenteeism from a chronic illness. Cleaners used in schools are associated with triggering asthma in children. (California Breathing)



Benefits of Green Cleaners

Thankfully, there are now hundreds of less toxic commercial and institutional cleaning products available on the market that have been independently certified to exclude carcinogens, reproductive toxins and other hazardous chemicals. Many school districts are finding that they can save money by switching to green cleaners that are concentrated so they use less, can reduce absenteeism, and can improve staff and student health:

* Switching to green cleaners can significantly improve indoor air quality, reducing cleaning-related health problems and absenteeism and increasing performance of students and staff alike. The city of Santa Monica, California, for example, eliminated 3,200 pounds of hazardous materials by replacing traditional cleaning products with safer alternatives. (Center for New American Dream)



* Lockport Township High School, in Lockport, Ill., reported a 3 percent increase in the average daily attendance after the first year of implementing an Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) Management plan that included green cleaning practices of switching to Green Seal certified products, using disinfecting wipes, and changing to vacuums equipped with HEPA filters. (Healthy Schools Campaign)



* Large institutional purchasers, including cities like Santa Monica, states like Massachusetts, and school districts like Chicago’s public schools, have conducted independent laboratory tests concluding that all of the safer products bought by the groups work as well or better than traditional cleaners. Additionally, products certified by Green Seal and Environmental Choice, U.S. and Canadian standard-setting and eco-labeling organizations, are required to pass stringent performance standards in addition to strict environmental and human health criteria. (Center for New American Dream)



Cost-Effectiveness of Green Cleaners

Green cleaning programs that include the use of less-toxic, concentrated cleaning products can simplify the cleaning process, can perform well, and can save schools money. Hundreds of school districts across the country have successfully been making the switch to green cleaners without hardship. There are numerous testimonials of the cost-effectiveness, and we include a sampling here:

* In 2003-2004, the Chicago Public Schools tested a green cleaning program. The price of Green Seal certified products was found to be cost-competitive with traditional products. In addition, the study found that not only were green cleaning products readily available, they also performed as well if not better than the conventional products. (Healthy Schools Campaign)



* The city of Santa Monica, California documented a five percent price savings after its switch to green cleaners3. (Center for New American Dream)



* Other public purchasers including the U.S. Department of Interior (including several National Parks), the Chicago Public School System, the City of Seattle, Washington, the states of Illinois, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Missouri, Pennsylvania, and Vermont, Sarasota County, Florida and Alameda County, California have all reported that safer cleaners are cost competitive after adopting policies requiring the use of green cleaners. (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 2005)



* Nick Cutri of the Canandaigua, NY School District said after he had switched that he saved a significant amount of money. Sandra Moulton of the Wolfeboro, NH High School saved enough money after switching to buy 2 new autoscrubbers. (INFORM)



* A three-month green cleaning pilot program at Grassy Waters Elementary School and Jeaga Middle School in the Palm Beach County School District in Florida proved that green cleaning saves money. The district saved $512.86 at one of the schools during the 3-month pilot. In June 2008, green cleaning will be required in all of the district’s 180 schools, multiplying the savings districtwide. (Palm Beach Post)



* Replacing 20 different cleaning products with a single Green Seal certified product has produced a $280,000 annual savings at the Riverside Military Academy in Gainesville, Georgia, using Green Seal certified cleaners to keep the 270 dorm rooms, and 100 bathrooms clean.



* In California, the Fairfield-Suisun, Martinez, San Francisco, and Santa Cruz City School Districts have started using environmentally sensitive cleaning products and practices with great success. Pilot tests have been initiated in Oakland Unified School District, Los Angeles Unified School District, and others. Numerous private schools are already using green cleaners, including Head Royce School, Lick Wilmerding High School, Prospect Sierra School and many, many others.



* School districts can often purchase green cleaning products through their state’s procurement contract, which can offer major discounts on products through their bulk purchasing agreements. Such procurement contracts, as well as buying cooperatives and the bidding process, can offer cost savings to schools.



Stephen Ashkin, President of The Ashkin Group, LLC, is a 27-year industry veteran and considered to be the “father of Green Cleaning.” He received the 2006 Children’s Environmental Health Excellence Award from the US Environmental Protection Agency for his work on green cleaning. He has introduced green cleaning programs in more than 1,000 buildings in the U.S. and Europe, and counts school districts, government agencies, and private businesses among his clients. Mr. Ashkin says, “In my experience, green cleaning programs more than pay for themselves. Benefits result from cost savings from simplified chemical and product purchases, reduced workplace injuries and sick leave, higher worker retention, and improved student attendance and academic performance.”

Starting a Green Cleaning Program

There are many resources available to help you start a green cleaning program at your school and safeguard the health of children and workers. Don’t reinvent the wheel!

Cleaning for Healthy Schools provides a Training Toolkit and other step-by-step information on how to do site walk-throughs, how to work with your school committee, and how to identify certified green cleaning products. www.cleaningforhealthyschools.org

Environmental Choice is Canada’s environmental product certification program, issuing standards for over 300 product categories (such as flooring, paint, cleaners, office furniture and other products that may emit formaldehyde, VOCs and other indoor air pollutants). www.environmentalchoice.com

Green Seal is a U.S. nonprofit organization that sets standards for products (such as less-toxic janitorial cleaners, floor strippers, and paints) and certifies products that meet those standards. Find certified products, standards, and Choose Green Reports at www.greenseal.org

INFORM is a nonprofit environmental research organization based in New York City. If offers free technical resources and fact sheets on its Cleaning for Health webpage, which links to its 2002 report on this subject as well as a Green Cleaning Tool Kit, designed for schools and other institutional facilities: www.informinc.org/project_cleaning_health.php

Janitorial Product Pollution Prevention Project (JP4) offers fact sheets, advice, a database of health risks of common cleaning product ingredients, and other resources designed to help custodial workers avoid or safely handle high-hazard cleaning chemicals and identify less-toxic replacements. The fact sheets are available in English and Spanish. www.wrppn.org/Janitorial/jp4.cfm

Calcium Magnesium Acetate (CMA): Replace the Deicer, not the Structure

Benefits

Low corrosion: less corrosive than tap water
Safe for concrete: the safest deicer for concrete
Excellent inhibitor: reduces chloride corrosion
Safe for the environment: biodegradable, low toxicity
Residual effect: requires fewer applications
Multi-purpose: use straight, with salt, with sand, or as a liquid
Performance

Works best above 20°F (-7°C)
Has long lasting effect - better than salt or urea
Breaks/inhibits bond between snow/ice and pavement
Creates a dry, powdery snow which improves traction

Application

Apply early in the storm to prevent snow/ice bonding
First application: Commercial = 15-20 lbs./1000 ft2 (75-100 g/m2)
Highway = 300-400 lbs./lane mile (20-40 g/m2)
Wait at least 20 minutes to remove snow/ice
Re-apply when new snow/ice accumulation shows first tendency to pack (bond)
Environment

Biodegrades to CO2 and H2O
Calcium and magnesium increase soil permeability
Essentially non-toxic to aquatic species
Poor mobility in soil – unlikely to reach groundwater
Safe for vegetation
Does not contain nitrogen, sodium, or chlorides

Handling

May be stored indefinitely if kept dry
Take care to avoid caking caused by excess moisture
Excessive handling may cause dustiness

ENVIRONMELT-THE GREEN SOLUTION ICE MELT

EnvironMelt - the Green Solution



* Specially enhanced with CMA (Calcium Magnesium Acetate), which guards against concrete and corrosion damage by forming a protective coating on the surface.
* Less harmful to vegetation. Reduces the amount of damage to grass, trees, or other vegetation.
* Reducing damage to wood and concrete makes this one of the safest deicing products.
* Easy to use, no protective clothing necessary.
* Safer for children and pets.
* Nature's own ingredients are combined to cause minimal harm to vegetation and plant life.
* Designed to reduce unsightly tracking or residue problems when used correctly.


For More information or to purchase Environmelt in NH please contact Steve Kolesar at 603-548-4218 or skolesar@amsan.com or visit us online at www.amsanne.com

AmSan-NH Best Choice for Janitorial and Cleaning Supplies

AmSan is the largest national distributor exclusively focused on providing janitorial products and solutions. We are a leading division of INTERLINE Brands, a $1.2b distribution company with over 170 locations throughout North America. We believe we are the BEST janitorial supply company because we offer the BEST: Brands, E-Commerce, Service and Training.

BRANDS – AmSan represents the Best in Class Brands that you have confidence in: Procter & Gamble, Rubbermaid, 3M, GOJO, Advance Equipment and Kimberly-Clark to name a few. We also offer you our Exclusive National Brand called Renown™, which provides quality performance at a competitive price.

E-COMMERCE – AmSan offers E-ACCESS, a robust online support tool which helps our customers place orders, review POD’s, Invoices, and MSDS sheets. In addition, AmSan provides work-loading and budget analysis programs to help our customers maximize their business goals.

SERVICE – AmSan differentiates from our competition with superior services: Factory Certified Equipment Technicians, PM and Equipment Rental programs, Dispenser Installation, Laundry technicians and Matting Specialists to help your organization be more productive.

TRAINING – Whether a customer is looking for training on Green Seal, Safety, Equipment In-service, or Waste Surveys; AmSan can provide standard or customized programs specifically designed to meet your needs.

AmSan is the BEST distributor in the US and our focus is to serve you with products and programs that provide a cleaner, safer and healthy environment.

For more information check us out online at www.amsanne.com

AmSan Launches New Renown Products Website!

A comprehensive line of janitorial and sanitary supplies from the nation’s leading jan-san distributor. Representing an in-depth knowledge of products and their performance characteristics. Interline Brands offers the exclusive brand of Renown products to address the unique needs of its customers. The comprehensive line offers products and solutions that enhance customer productivity, effi ciency and cost control. Available in a variety of jan-san categories. • Floor Care • Restroom Products • Carpet Care • Industrial Cleaners & • Degreasers • Disinfectancts • Odor Control Products • Special Purpose Cleaners • Insecticides • Can Liners.

For more information go to www.gorenown.com

Green Schools 101

green school /grEn skül / n. a school building or facility that creates a healthy environment that is conducive to learning while saving energy, resources and money

Why green schools?

20% of America goes to school every day. More than a quarter of these students and teachers attend schools that are considered substandard or dangerous to occupant health.

Public and private schools alike are realizing that going green is a no-brainer. On average, green schools save $100,000 per year – enough to hire two new teachers, buy 200 new computers or purchase 5,000 new textbooks.

If all new school construction and school renovations went green starting today, energy savings alone would total more than $20 billion over the next 10 years.

By promoting the design and construction of green schools, we can make a tremendous impact on student health, test scores, teacher retention, school operational costs and the environment.

Benefits of green schools

• A healthy, productive learning environment
• Improved teacher retention
• Financial savings
• Hands-on learning
• Environmentally friendly

Boston Law Requires Green Cleaning

Boston Mayor Thomas M. Menino recently signed an executive order that requires city departments to purchase only environmentally friendly cleaning products, hire only cleaning contractors with a specific "green" certification and expand recycling programs, according to The Boston Globe.

The executive order requires:

1. All City of Boston departments adhere to the City’s new green cleaning policy both for all city-managed building maintenance programs and for any new contracted maintenance services.

2. Within 60 days, the City of Boston purchasing agent and the chief of public property, in consultation with City departments, shall publish Environmentally Preferable Procurement (EPP) guidelines covering all goods and services purchased for building maintenance and operations.

3. All city departments shall seek to expand recycling programs in all municipal buildings and new cleaning services contracts.

4. Within 60 days, the city of Boston chief information officer, in consultation with city departments, shall issue a Green Information Technology Roadmap to further reduce municipal consumption of resources.

5. The city will establish a green operations coordinating committee to further pursue and develop additional measures to reduce municipal consumption and increase efficiency.

Survey: Matting System Benefits

A recently released survey finds that most facility managers are well versed on the benefits of matting systems. The survey was conducted for Crown Mats and Matting during early February 2008. Nearly 120 people participated.

More than 95 percent of the respondents indicated they have mats installed at key building entries, and nearly 82 percent own, rather than rent, their mats. "Typically, mats purchased by a facility are of higher quality and more effective than rented mats," says Christopher R. Tricozzi, vice president of sales and marketing for Crown Mats. "This tells us that these facility managers know how valuable a high-performance matting system can be to the health of a facility."

Further, another survey question revealed that two-thirds know a high-performance matting system usually has a longer warrantee and is more effective at capturing and trapping soil.

Among other findings:
• 91 percent know high-performance matting systems play a key role in Green cleaning.
• 70 percent understand that a "scraper mat" is placed outdoors to aggressively remove soils from shoes.
• Similarly, 72 percent know a "wiper mat" is placed inside a facility to remove remaining soils, contaminants, and moisture from shoes.

Safety and Stopping Soil
One survey question asked how many people are hospitalized each day in the United States as a result of slips and falls. "Most of the respondents said it was 1,000 per day," says Tricozzi. "However, the correct answer is closer to 10,000, and many of these [accidents] could be prevented if an effective matting system was in place."

As to stopping soil, the respondents were evenly divided when asked how much money it costs to remove one pound of soil from a building. Half answered $250 to $500, while others thought it was $750. The correct answer, according to ISSA studies, is around $500.

The respondents were also asked what the term "Rule of 15s" means, as it applies to matting systems. A third said it means mats should be 15 feet long. However, the Rule of 15s actually means three mats-a scraper, a wiper/scraper, and a wiper-each five feet long, should be placed at all building entries. This was correctly answered by about 50 percent of the respondents.

"Overall, we were impressed with the answers to the survey," Tricozzi says. "It is probably because of Green cleaning that so many people now know how valuable high-performance matting systems are to occupant health."

AmSan Launches New Renown Products Website.

A comprehensive line of janitorial and sanitary supplies from the nation’s leading jan-san distributor.Representing an in-depth knowledge of products and their performance characteristics. Interline Brands offers the exclusive brand of Renown products to address the unique needs of its customers. The comprehensive line offers products and solutions that enhance customer productivity, efficiency and cost control. Available in a variety of jan-san categories. • Floor Care• Restroom Products• Carpet Care• Industrial Cleaners & • Degreasers • Disinfectancts• Odor Control Products • Special Purpose Cleaners • Insecticides• Can Liners

FacilityBlog from Today's Facility Manager: The First Facility Management Blog: EcoLogo and Green Seal Release Unified Hand Soap Criteria

FacilityBlog from Today's Facility Manager: The First Facility Management Blog: EcoLogo and Green Seal Release Unified Hand Soap Criteria

Environmental Trends in Task Specific Industrial Wipers!

When you ask a plant safety and maintenance manager to name
tools of the trade, industrial disposal wipers seldom come to
mind. Yet, today, these wipers are an integral part of the complex
maintenance operations for commercial cleaning. A mid-sized
plant, for example, is likely to use about 50,000 wipers per year,
while a large plant may go through upwards of 100,000 per
month. Add in the use of rental “shop” towels, which are also used
for plant cleaning and maintenance operations, and the annual
investment for this “tool” runs well over a billion dollars.
The proper laundering of rental towels and disposal practices
for industrial wipers have become important components of the
maintenance manager’s environmental toolbox. It’s important to
know how to select the correct wiper, and how to handle it to
avoid safety and environmental liabilities. This is particularly
important because we are entering a new era of closer environmental
oversight with these products. The United States
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will change requirements
for rental “shop” towels and industrial disposable wipers.

THE TIPPING POINT

This new rule will require all disposable wipers and rental “shop”
towels to adhere to federal guidelines for use and disposal. Until
now, only disposable wipers were under Federal guidelines –
rental “shop” towels were not. When choosing between disposable
wipers and rental towels, the tipping point for many managers
often hinged on the belief that with rental towels the laundry,
not the end-user, was responsible for any environmental
problems. This proved untrue.
This new rule makes it clear that the end-user – not the laundry
– is responsible for any environmental discharges. If rental
towels are used, the new rule requires pre-treatment of those towels
before laundering. EPA’s review uncovered one problem: over
87% of the commercial laundries in the US do not have pre-treatment
equipment. This may affect the cost of rental towels, as
most laundries will need to purchase pre-treatment equipment.
Companies using disposable wipers will probably not need to
change their procedures, since disposables already fall under EPA
guidelines, and most companies using disposables have procedures
in place (reference the “EPA Rule Executive Summary”
sidebar for further details).

This new rule makes it clear that
the waste generator – not the
laundry – is responsible for any
environmental discharges.

THINK SAFE CHOICES

Each year hundreds of employees in manufacturing are killed or
seriously injured by exposure to hazardous substances and environments.
These range from exposure to chemical substances
used for daily cleaning to more highly corrosive substances.
According to the most recently published data (2001) from the US
Bureau of Labor Statistics, 500 employees were killed or injured
due to contact with hazardous substances.
Although facility and maintenance managers work diligently to
create safe working environments, use aids such as MSDS sheets,
and pay careful attention to training and safety procedures, managers
still should not overlook wipers as a factor to maintaining
safety.
One of the first issues to consider is what type of wiper product
is the safest and most efficient for plant or industrial operations.
Traditionally, facilities managers have used either rental towels or
disposable task-specific wipers. These task-specific wipers are
made from woven (textiles) and nonwoven materials.

Reprinted with permission from Plant Safety and Maintenance

The Myths About Disposable Wipers

Shop Towel Laundries Claim:
Disposable wipers are considered "Hazardous wastes" under RCRA.

Fact: The vast majority of single-use wipers are nonhazardous wastes as they are contaminated with simple oils and greases. Many states have become more flexible.

Shop Towel Laundries Claim:
Rented wipers are "environmentally-friendly."

Fact: EPA's data indicates single-use disposable wipers have less negative environmental impact than rented, laundered wipers due to the multi-media environmental impact of the laundering process to air, water, and land.

Shop Towel Laundries Claim:
Environmental liability exposure is eliminated with rented, laundered shop towels.

Fact:
Under current environmental law (CERCLA) rented wipers share the same potential liability exposure as do single-use disposable wipers.

Shop Towel Laundries Claim:
Rented, laundered wipers reduce user costs.

Fact: Laundry rental contracts are notoriously filled with hidden costs for replacement, energy and environmental charges, and automatic price increases. Disposable wipers have completely predictable acquisition, use, and disposal costs.

Shop Towel Laundries Claim:
Rented, laundered wipers are exempt from Dept. Of Transportation (DOT) hazardous material regulations

Fact: Users of any product that may become a "hazardous material" are obliged to follow DOT regulations when shipping regulated materials off site--whether a rented towel or disposable.

Shop Towel Laundries Claim:
Rented, laundered wipers are safer for workers.

Fact: Rented wipers are commonly contaminated with metal chips and chemical residues from other users, while single-use disposables pose no cross contamination potential.

DISPOSABLE WIPERS ARE THE PREFERRED CHOICE OVER LAUNDERED SHOP TOWELS

• Safer for the Environment
• No Residual Sludge from Laundry Water
• Minimal Energy Consumption
• Often Made from Recycled Materials
• Greater Value for the Money
• Safer for Employees and Equipment

The Facts About Disposable Wipers

FACT 1:

Disposable Wipers are Friendlier to the Environment

EPA's own research data documented by the Lockheed/Martin Energy & Environmental Systems Company indicates that rented, laundered towels have a greater negative impact on the environment that single-cycle disposable wipers. Eighty percent of shop towel laundries have no wastewater pretreatment equipment thereby contributing 13 million pounds per year of pollutant discharges to POTW's (local sewer plants) of which 5 million pounds per year pass-through the POTW untreated directly to lakes, rivers, and streams.

FACT 2:

Wiper rental and cleaning represents only 10 Percent of The commercial laundry business while directly resulting in 90 percent of their wastewater discharge problems and violations

Most commercial laundries focus their efforts on rental and cleaning of uniforms, floor mats, and linens. In many cases shop towels are a very small non-priority portion of their business. As a result, many shop towels will be cleaned by third party contract cleaners, exposing the user to unknown environmental liability. Many commercial laundries would prefer not to offer shop towel services due to the wastewater effluent problems and costs.

FACT 3:

Disposable Wipers are Recycled Products--Rented Towels are Not

Most disposable wiper products, particularly woven fabric wipers, are manufactured from recycled textiles, diverted from landfills previously used fabrics for conversion and a second life as industrial or commercial wiping products. Most of the wipers provided by shop towel rental laundries are manufactured overseas from virgin cotton fibers for this purpose.

Evaluation of Potential Exposure To Metals In Laundered Shop Towels

By Leslie A. Beyer MS, Mara R. Seeley PhD, and Barbara D. Beck PhD, Gradient Corporation,
238 Main Street, Cambridge, MA


Samples of laundered shop towels which
had been used and then laundered, were
collected from 23 locations in 14 states
throughout the U.S. The laundered shop
towels were then submitted to an
independent lab, which analyzed them for
27 metals and for oil and grease. All of the
laundered shop towels contained oil and
grease, and many contained elevated levels
of metals, such as lead.
To assess the significance of the possible
exposure to elevated levels of metals in the
laundered shop towels, we estimated how
much of the metals people might ingest,
using 2.5 laundered shop towels per day in
a manner involving relatively frequent
contact as might occur in an auto body shop
or maintenance area. We compared the
amounts ingested to various criteria,
including California Environmental
Protection Agency (CalEPA) Proposition 65
regulatory limits. The Proposition 65 limits
are exposure limits based on health
endpoints such as cancer or reproductive
effects. If a chemical exposure exceeds the
limit, manufacturers may be required to
notify the public of this exceedance. We also
compared estimated intakes to toxicity
criteria of the U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency (USEPA) and the Agency for Toxic
Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR).
The results of this evaluation for lead are
presented in the bar chart below. We
calculated the lead intakes using the
maximum amount of lead and the average
amount of lead on the laundered shop
towels tested, which represents the
plausible range of exposure to lead found in
laundered shop towels.
The bar chart compares the estimated lead
exposure levels to CalEPA's Proposition 65
levels for reproductive effects (called
Maximum Allowable Daily Levels, or MADLs)
and cancer (called No Significant Risk Levels,
or NSRLs).
These estimates are based on an assumed
use of only 2.5 laundered shop towels per
day per individual. Should individuals use 10
laundered shop towels per day the following
exceedances could occur:
The overall conclusions of this analysis are:
• Laundered shop towels contain a variety of
heavy metals
• Metals on shop towels can get onto hands
and then inadvertently get into the mouth
and be swallowed
• The amount of lead that someone might
accidentally ingest from the laundered shop
towels may exceed a CalEPA Proposition
65 limit (based on using 2.5 towels per day)
• If the number of towels used increases to
10 per day, exceedances of Prop 65 limits,
USEPA toxicity criteria, or ATSDR toxicity
criteria may occur for antimony, cadmium,
and lead.

Gradient is an
environmental
consulting firm
with nationally
recognized
specialties in
risk assessment
and toxicology,
contaminant
transport and
fate, and
environmental
chemistry.

Good Hand Hygiene: One of the Best Defenses Against MRSA

Major health organizations make it very clear: Because MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) can be transferred by person to person contact, one of the best prevention methods is good hand hygiene. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Public Health Agency of Canada recommend washing with soap and water or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.MRSA is a type of staph that is usually manifested as skin infections, such as pimples and boils in otherwise healthy people and may, in some cases, cause a serious infection. It is resistant to numerous antibiotics such as methicillin, penicillin and amoxicillin. There are two types of MRSA: Healthcare Acquired MRSA (HA-MRSA) and Community Acquired MRSA (CA-MRSA) The spread of MRSA occurs more frequently in some types of environments, including hospitals, schools, dormitories and even military barracks.
GOJO offers comprehensive programs that include effective soaps and hand sanitizers to help facilities reduce the spread of germs. Innovative dispensing options include wall mount dispensers, bottles and sanitizing stations that can be placed anywhere. Additionally, GOJO offers tools to help encourage hand hygiene compliance.

GOJO Wipes – Changing The Way Automotive Technicians Clean Up

GOJO® Scrubbing Wipes and GOJO FAST WIPES® are two products that help technicians save time and money through increased productivity. According to Steve Pruett, GOJO sales and marketing vice president, "Wipes are portable, waterless and disposable. A wide range of package sizes ensures they have a quick cleaning solution anywhere they need it: in the bay, at the vehicle, or on the road. Convenient and easy cleaning means technicians save time and money and get the job done fast."Pruett also noted that wipes help reduce the risk of cross contamination. "You use them once and throw them away," he explained. “And they are great for cleaning tools, or other surfaces. They also help ensure customer satisfaction – returning a clean vehicle to the owner."GOJO offers two wipes that can be included as part of your shop’s hand hygiene product portfolio.
GOJO FAST WIPES Hand Cleaning TowelsThese medium-duty hand wipes remove grease, grime and other soils in one fast, easy step while taking care of your skin. GOJO FAST WIPES are fortified with vitamin E, aloe and skin conditioners.
GOJO Scrubbing Wipes These extra large, dual textured wipes can be used anywhere heavy duty cleaning is required. Pre-moistened with a GOJO heavy duty hand cleaner, the scrubbing side removes the toughest grease, tar and adhesives from hands, while the smooth side quickly absorbs dirt. Also, GOJO Scrubbing Wipes contain skin conditioners to help prevent dryness and irritation.
GOJO FAST WIPES are available in a number of different packaging formats to meet a variety of user needs. The large 130 and 225-count buckets are recommended for high throughput areas like repair facilities and service vehicles in the field. The display carton, containing 80 individually wrapped wipes, can be used for retail sampling or individual purchase. The 60 count, re-sealable flow-pack is perfect for tool boxes, glove compartments and other tight spaces. The 25 count canisters are available for personal garage use.GOJO Scrubbing Wipes are available in a large 170-count bucket. The bucket is recommended for use in high throughput areas like repair facilities and service vehicles in the field. The display carton of 80 individually wrapped wipes for retail sampling or individual purchase. The 72-count can and 25 count cans can be used in both repair facilities as well as personal garage use.GOJO is America’s #1 brand of hand cleaner.1 From heavy-duty hand cleaners to wipes, gloves and skin conditioner, GOJO offers a wide variety of hand hygiene programs and products to meet your skin care needs.

AmSan-Renown Green Seal Certified Paper Products

RENOWN™ GREEN SEAL CONTROLLED-USE TISSUE
Embossed for softness, 100% recycled Renown™ Green Seal certified bath tissue
contains up to 49% post-consumer waste, which exceeds EPA guidelines.
Renown™ Green Seal certified controlled-use tissue features OptiCore™
technology, and when combined with Renown™ coordinating dispensing systems,
ensures maximum use of each roll in the dispenser before advancing to the next
roll.
OptiCore™ technology features
a two-part core for controlled
use, which reduces product
waste and cost, and offers more
than a 25% reduction in core
material for more
environmentally
preferable packaging.
The high sheet count
offers maximum capacity
and reduces
maintenance time.


RENOWN™ CONTROLLED ROLL TOWELS
Renown™ controlled roll towels are made entirely of 100% recovered
fibers. The natural and natural white grade roll towels are Green Seal
certified and exceed the EPA guidelines for post -consumer waste.
Renown™ Green Seal certified natural towels contain up to 82% postconsumer
waste and natural white towels contain up to 73% postconsumer
waste. Renown™ white controlled roll towels contain a
minimum of 40% post-consumer waste.

Five Simple Steps to Green Cleaning in Schools

Schools have been cleaned the same way for so long that most of us haven't really given it much thought. Starting a green cleaning program can feel overwhelming, but green cleaning is not an "all or nothing" proposition. Most schools that successfully implement green cleaning programs begin by addressing the most significant or easily accessible issues. As they experience success, they add new elements to their plan or make adjustments to improve the results of current efforts.

You can get the process started with just five simple steps:

Step 1: Switch to Green Cleaning Products
Purchase certified green cleaning products.There are dozens of choices that work well and are cost-competitive compared to traditional products. This stage also includes training or retraining cleaning personnel regarding the proper product application, mixing, dilution and disposal. More …

Step 2: Introduce Green Equipment and Supplies
Use vacuums and other floor cleaning equipment with high-efficiency filters to capture microscopic materials that might adversely impact building occupant health or damage sensitive equipment. Green equipment tends to cost more, but the higher quality and greater durability is more cost-effective in the long run. More …

Step 3: Adopt Green Cleaning Procedures
Change the frequency, technique or time when cleaning is performed. For instance, spraying product on a cleaning cloth rather than on the surface being cleaned, or adopt integrated pest management to cut down on pesticide exposure. More …

Step 4: Use Green Paper and Plastic Products
Introduce environmentally preferable paper and recycled plastic trash can liners to your school. By taking a few simple steps to reduce consumption (such as replacing multifold hand towels with large rolls and replacing single roll toilet paper dispensers with dispensers that hold multiple rolls), you can offset the higher initial cost. More …

Step 5: Share the Responsibility
Educate custodial staff, administrators, teachers, students, union representatives, vendors and visitors about what they can do to promote a healthy school environment, such as recycling paper and plastic, conserving water, maintaining uncluttered classrooms and workspaces and handling food and potential contaminants properly. More …

Is There A Mat Season?

The answer is YES, and it runs from January 1 through December 31st each year!

Whether we are talking about Entrance or Industrial matting, there are always matting opportunities in your market area.

Let's consider some entryway matting facts, and think for a moment, before making our action plan to capture more of the business available.

* The estimated cost of finding and removing a pound of dirt from a building is $600. (ISSA)
* One square yard of carpet can accumulate one pound of dirt in a week- twice that in inclement weather
* 70 to 80% of dust, grime, and dirt in a building are tracked in from the outside on people's feet permanently damaging floors and carpets. (Institute of Industrial Launderers)
* 91% of shoppers selected a store based on its appearance. (Progressive Grocer)
* Without effective entrance matting, as few as 1,500 people can remove 42% of the finish from a floor. (3M)
* Without effective matting your slip and fall exposure is increased
* The average cost of a slip related injury exceeds $12,000. (Wausau Insurance Co.)
* Over 30% of worker injuries are slip related. (Wausau Ins. Co.)
* In the USA each year, an average of 7.75 claims per 1-million supermarket customers are filed due to slip and fall incidents. (Foodmarketing Institute)


How important are mats to an establishment?

One might ask, how important should mats be to an establishment?

If you consider the facts above and calculate the amount of money a given facility spends on cleaning chemicals, machines, mops, brooms, caution signs, and LABOR to clean the building, the need to have the most effective matting possible is essential to protecting the investment mentioned in the materials listed above. Lessening the slip and fall potential, in addition, should give you a refreshed reason to contact every customer you have about Andersen matting for their facility.

After contacting everyone in the front office about matting for the entrances, switch gears and contact the Safety Directors and Plant managers involved with decisions on Anti-fatigue or Anti-slip matting. The budgets for these types of mats are staggering, and purchases of anti-fatigue/slip matting are year round, as needs arise.

Mat Season: It runs 24/7 365 days per year!

You cannot make up lost sales, so be sure to get your share of the market.

Technorati Profile

AmSan rated as John Deere “Partner Supplier”

For the sixth year in a row, AmSan has achieved "Partner" status as a supplier to the John Deere enterprise in North America. "Achieving Excellence" is the supplier rating system that John Deere uses to rate their suppliers in the key areas of: Quality, Delivery, Technical Support, Wavelength (communication), and Cost management. "Partner is the highest level of achievement. We are proud to be an important supplier to John Deere, and we congratulate all of the AmSan employees who are involved in providing this World Class service to our major customers.

Rockwell Collins Names AmSan a Top Preferred Supplier

AmSan headquartered in Deerfield Illinois , has been recognized as one of the Top Preferred Suppliers for 2006 by Rockwell Collins.
AmSan, producer of building maintenance solutions, was cited for performance in meeting delivery schedules and product quality. AmSan was also recognized for design and engineering support and the teamwork demonstrated with Rockwell Collins.
A recognition plaque was presented at the recent Rockwell Collins Annual Supplier Conference in Cedar Rapids, Iowa .
Rockwell Collins is a worldwide leader in the design, production, and support of communication and aviation electronics for commercial and government customers. The company's 17,000 employees in 27 countries deliver industry-leading communication, navigation, surveillance, display, flight control, in-flight entertainment, information management, and maintenance, training and simulation solutions. Additional information is available at www.rockwellcollins.com .

AmSan Business Combination with Interline Brands, Inc.

AmSan Business Combination With Interline Brands, Inc.
Michael J. Mulhern, Chief Executive Officer
Chicago, IL - May 23, 2006 -Today I have the pleasure of announcing that on May 23, 2006, AmSan and Interline Brands, Inc. (Interline) have entered into a definitive agreement whereby Interline will acquire AmSan. The agreement is subject to customary closing conditions and we anticipate the transaction to be completed in July 2006.
Interline is a leading distributor and direct marketer of a broad range of maintenance, repair and operations (MRO) products. Interline is based in Jacksonville, FL with distribution centers throughout the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico. Interline is a publicly traded company on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: IBI) and in 2005, achieved revenues of approximately $859 million.
Given that half of Interline’s revenues come from its facilities maintenance customers (apartments, hotels, healthcare and educational facilities), Interline views AmSan as a strategic acquisition because of the outstanding cross-selling opportunities.
Interline goes to market through nine distinct marketing entities which they refer to as “Brands”. AmSan will become Interline’s brand specifically targeted at the Jan-San industry. Our business combination with Interline will allow AmSan to maintain its brand identity and from our customers’ perspective, very little will change.
I am personally energized about Interline’s commitment to AmSan and the Jan-San space. With support and direction from Interline, combined with our many strengths and capabilities (Industry Position, Renown, Supplier Network, AmSan Proforma, e-Access, and our Jan-San-Expertise), I strongly believe there will be many tremendous opportunities for our associates, customers and suppliers.
Finally, becoming a member of the Interline family of brands will be extremely beneficial for AmSan. Interline is a large, financially sound company with significant technology, logistic and customer service resources that will only strengthen AmSan’s ability to service our customers.

Renown-AmSan Exclusive Brand of Products

A comprehensive new line of janitorial and sanitary supplies for the nation's leading distributor - AmSan. Representing an in-depth knowledge of products and their performance characteristics, AmSan created the exclusive brand of Renown products to address the unique needs of its customers. The comprehensive line offers products and solutions that enhance customer productivity, efficiency and cost control. Available in a variety of jan-san catergories.
Floor Care
Restroom Products
Carpet Care
Industrial Cleaners and Degreasers
Disinfectants
Odor Control Products
Special Purpose Cleaners
Insecticides
Can Liners
A comprehensive new line of janitorial and sanitary supplies for the nation's leading distributor - AmSan.
Representing an in-depth knowledge of products and their performance characteristics, AmSan created the exclusive brand of Renown products to address the unique needs of its customers. The comprehensive line offers products and solutions that enhance customer productivity, efficiency and cost control. Available in a variety of jan-san catergories.

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Welcome to AmSan

Beginning in 1997, AmSan was created by uniting 41 of the nation's premier sanitary supply organizations into one company. Together, we share a common vision. We believe that by combining local market focus with broad-scale national resources, we are able to deliver optimal value to our customers. Today, AmSan is the largest national distributor dedicated exclusively to the Jan-San industry with almost 100 locations in 40 states. We invite you to get to know us in-depth; who we are at the core, what drives us, inspires us and makes us different enough to earn your trust and business.