Warm indoor air temperatures are a problem in many campus buildings during the summer. Hot sun glaring in windows, warmer outside air and electrical equipment are all contributing factors.
To make your workplace a little more comfortable when it is hot outside, try
these "cool" tips.

    •  Reduce heat from direct sunlight by closing curtains and blinds.

    •  Turn off any unused electrical equipment, such as computer monitors.

    •  Increase airflow by opening a window or using a fan. Do not prop open outer doors; these and other fire-rated doors must remain closed.

    •  Take your breaks in an air-conditioned area, such as the TSC cafeteria.

    •  Eat a cool, light lunch. A heavy meal redirects the blood flow to the digestive
 tract and reduces your ability to eliminate body heat.

    •  Drink plenty of cool water.

    •  Wear breathable fabrics, such as cotton.
 

Household pesticides should be used carefully

This year's mild winter and early spring have resulted in an abundance of insect invaders. For many people, their first reaction is to reach for the spray can to rid themselves of these pests even though pesticide use should be your last resort. If you do use pesticides, there are a few safety procedures to keep in mind.

READ THE LABEL, especially the small print.  Pesticide manufactures are required to provide safe handling and disposal procedures on the product label. Follow all the instructions. The label will also provide information on what types of insects the product is effective against.

KEEP AWAY FROM CHILDREN. Pesticides are highly toxic chemicals and must be treated with due care. Store in a locked cupboard or shed out of reach of children and away from food. Never use pesticides when there are children or pets in the area.

PROTECT YOURSELF DURING AND AFTER APPLICATION.  Use impermeable gloves, such as rubber or vinyl. Cloth gloves trap the chemicals in the material, increasing your exposure risk. Rinse the gloves with water when finished and do not use the gloves for other procedures. Even though you wore gloves, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. Wear coveralls or old clothing. Change your clothes after using the pesticides and wash then separate from your other clothing. Store any unused product in a secure location. Follow the recommended
disposal methods for discarding empty containers.
 

Fire hazard staring you in the face

Overheated computer monitors may pose a fire hazard.

Monitors, especially older models, tend to get very hot during operation. As equipment ages and systems wear, the potential for a mishap increases. Luckily, during a recent monitor fire on campus, the office occupant caught the fire in time and only the monitor was damaged. If the fire had occurred during the night when the office was unoccupied, the fire damage could have been much more severe.

Computer monitors should be shut off when not in use, especially if left unattended for long periods of time.