Tag: #safety

Electrical safety in clinical laboratories

While electrical safety should be a key priority in every workplace, it’s simply essential in clinical laboratories, where high-stakes research is carried out using often volatile chemicals and valuable equipment. Although checking how electrically sound your equipment is may seem like a chore when you’re faced with a busy work schedule, it’s easy to keep on top of electrical safety – incorporate these simple but necessary checks into your everyday processes and you’ll reduce the risk of loss, wastage or accidents in the lab: 

Plug sockets – Because the vast majority of lab equipment (including chemical storage refrigerators) is powered by electricity, even a brief electrical failure can be financially catastrophic and unsafe for lab workers. A simple way to avoid this is regularly checking all connections, outlets and plug sockets in the environment – make sure you test outlets and plug sockets regularly and replace any cracked or damaged casing immediately. Keep a special eye on outlets positioned near sinks or other sources of moisture and ensure that these have ground-circuit protection

Circuits – Regularly check that all fuses and circuit breakers in the lab are present and in good working order to maintain electrical safety and avoid power outages. The nichrome wire found in many pieces of laboratory equipment is vulnerable to electrical surges, so ensure that you regularly use a handheld current tester to check on circuits in the lab – failing to do this could lead to expensive equipment replacement and maintenance fees. Where possible, make sure that electrical equipment is switched off and unplugged when not in use.

Equipment quality checks –  Conducting regular risk assessments of your operations and workplace (every 6 months to a year at minimum) can go a long way in reducing the risk of electrical emergencies in the lab. This includes removing and replacing any damaged equipment and ensuring that any maintenance work is carried out by a qualified electrician. When it comes to disposing of electrical waste and buying new lab equipment, try to be as eco-friendly as you can.

Emergency procedures – To avoid potential injury and ensure that things go according to plan in the case of an emergency, make sure that your staff have been trained in the proper emergency procedures. This could include how to shut off power or break circuits in the case of fire or an electrical accident, where to locate the main switchboard and where fire safety equipment and relevant PPE is located in the lab.

 

Drone Safely this Christmas cautions the Irish Aviation Authority

The Irish Aviation Authority (IAA) today launched their ‘Drone Safely This Christmas’ Campaign. If you’re thinking of getting a drone this Christmas, you need to make sure you register as an Operator with the aviation regulator and that you know the rules before you fly. This advice comes ahead of the busiest shopping days in the lead up to Christmas.

Jim Gavin, Director People & Operations from the Irish Aviation Authority, Aviation Regulator commenting on drone safety said:  “Drone use has increased significantly in recent years. Piloting a drone is fun but it comes with responsibilities and no matter what their use or purpose, drones can raise challenges from both safety and privacy perspectives. Operating a drone in public requires training, as they can have serious consequences if they are flown inappropriately, or collide with a person, an animal or an aircraft. So, if you do get a drone this Christmas, find out if you need to register as an operator with the Aviation Regulator and get trained.”

The Irish Aviation Authority became one of the first aviation regulators in the world to introduce regulations and mandatory drone registration in December 2015. Consumers who buy drones that are over 250g, or a drone fitted with a camera, are legally required to register as a drone operator. If you are a drone operator safety is your responsibility. You need to ensure you are always in control of the drone and that you remain compliant with the law.

Enda Walsh, UAS Manager/Drones Champion from the Irish Aviation Authority added. “The vast majority of drone users fly safely and are compliant with the regulations. However, we are concerned that there are many drone owners who are not registered, who may be flying unsafely and putting people and other aircraft at risk. If you see anyone you believe to be flying dangerously or using a drone irresponsibly, we encourage you to contact the IAA. Reckless use of a drone or inappropriate use of its camera may result in prosecution,”

One important exemption to registration is for toy drones. A toy drone is one where it states clearly on the box or in its documentation that it complies with the regulation on toy safety, and it is intended “for use in play by children under 14 years of age. These types of drones are usually small and only suitable for indoor flying.

For more information on IAA Drone Safety Regulations and registration process, visit www.iaa.ie/drones Stay updated by searching the following @IAApress or searching #DroneSafety.

Go-Ahead Ireland and Lime Partner in Driver Safety Campaign

Lime, the world’s largest shared e-bike and e-scooter provider, has announced a safety partnership with Go-Ahead Ireland (GAI). The partnership will see the two companies working together to increase awareness e-bike and e-scooter riders for Go-Ahead Ireland’s bus drivers, helping them to better navigate sharing the road ahead of the passing of e-scooter legislation next year.

Bus drivers in Go-Ahead’s Ballymount and Naas depots will be provided with practical guidance in the form of a safety manual which will provide tips and methods for drivers to safely share Irish roads safely with e-scooter riders and cyclists. The manual will include background information on e-scooters and e-bikes as new modes of green transport, as well as reminders for bus drivers on blind spots, particularly on roads where there is not dedicated cycling infrastructure.

In order for GAI bus drivers to put the programme into practice, Lime will provide e-scooters and e-bikes to the company. The vehicles will help the drivers to understand first-hand what it is like to ride an e-scooter and/or e-bike alongside buses, and how to interact on roads safely.

GAI provides all of its drivers with professional training before they begin driving on the network. This includes theory testing and NCT qualifications, and all drivers also must have Certificates of Professional Competence (CPC) cards issued by the Road Safety Authority. Drivers also receive training on the specific routes they will be driving on before entering service.

Nicole Quadrelli, Risk Manager for Go-Ahead Ireland said: “More and more people are travelling by e-bike and e-scooter, and with some bus routes do not yet have dedicated cycle lane infrastructure. It’s really important to us in GAI that we make sure all our drivers are safely and respectfully sharing the road with cyclists and e-scooter users alike. We are delighted to be partnered with Lime in anticipation of the roll out of its e-scooter sharing services in Ireland next year”.

Hal Stevenson, Lime Senior Public Affairs Manager for Ireland said: “The safety of all road users is a priority for Lime everywhere we operate, which is why we are committed to working closely with Go-Ahead Ireland, and wider stakeholders to make sure everyone feels confident sharing Ireland’s roads. Lime and GAI ultimately have the same goal, which is to shift people from their cars and onto shared, more sustainable ways of traveling like cycling, e-scooters, and public transport. Lime’s services are designed to complement public transport networks, offering first and last mile solutions to users”.

Lime is committed to ensuring e-scooter and e-bike riders understand the rules of the road and riding best practice, alongside drivers. It provides safety training to e-scooter riders via its First Ride Academy in all the cities it operates services in. This in-person course provides practical training for riders, including how to inspect scooters for safety before each journey, and how to safely ride.

Despite the fact that e-scooters are currently still not legal to use on public roads in Ireland, their popularity has been increasing in recent years. The Road and Road Traffic Bill 2021, which will allow for their use, is currently making its way through the Seanad. In the interim, and in anticipation of future sharing schemes, the partnership will help to foster a better understanding between bus drivers and e-scooter users. The partnership may also lead to the provision of Lime’s shared e-bikes to GAI employees via long term loans to encourage more sustainable commuting choices.

Lime’s partnership with GAI is part of its commitment to invest €10 million in its Irish operations as it looks to launch e-bike and e-scooter sharing schemes in towns and cities across the country. Last month Lime launched a 12-month shared e-bike pilot in Castlebar, Co. Mayo, which will see up to 100 bikes available for hire in virtual parking bays across the town. Lime also hopes to launch its e-scooter sharing service in Ireland next year following the passing of legislation and regulations to make e-scooters legal on Irish roads.

The GAA rolls out an anti-Bullying and Internet Safety Programme to 100 GAA clubs in 2022 in partnership with Google

The GAA, in partnership with Google, has launched its anti-bullying and internet safety programme to over 100 participating clubs from the GAA, Ladies Football and Camogie Associations in Ireland and Britain, targeted at the 9 – 12 years age group.

As part of the Gaelic Games, Give Respect – Get Respect initiative, this programme incorporates Google’s Be Internet Legends initiative, an existing free, online safety education programme for primary-age children helping them to become safe and confident explorers of the online world. The programme helps children bring the respect and values they learn on the field into their online interactions encompassing learnings and activities in the areas of anti-bullying, developing positive behaviour and staying safe online.

This programme mirrors the Give Respect – Get Respect initiative which promotes respecting fellow players, coaches, referees, opponents and officials; playing fair; treating others equally; setting an example; and creating an environment where children feel confident and comfortable to talk to a coach or adult if they have a concern.

Speaking at the launch the GAA President Larry McCarthy welcomed the involvement of the Gaelic Games Give Respect – Get Respect initiative in this programme. He said:

“This is an ideal opportunity to raise awareness around the need for young players to show respect for referees, fellow players, coaches and opponents, both on and off the field of play.

“It is the Association’s intention to further develop the ‘Respect Initiative’ over the period of our recently launched Strategic Plan and this Anti-Bullying and Internet Safety Programme will be supported and closely monitored.”

Speaking in Croke Park at the launch, Shane Nolan, Director, New Business Sales, EMEA, Google Ireland, said:

“At Google Ireland, we recognise the responsibility that we have as a company to protect and support the users of our products. We need to play our part in ensuring that the internet is an accessible resource to all and that it’s used in a positive way.  We are delighted to build upon our already successful partnership with the GAA to deliver the Be Internet Legends programme to even more clubs and children across the country. Google Ireland is committed to helping empower young people to act wisely, responsibly and safely all the while remaining confident explorers of the online world.”

Minister of State Jack Chambers TD speaking at the launch said:

“I am delighted to support and help launch this important initiative. Abuse of our players, coaches, referees and volunteers is unacceptable and must be called out – whether it occurs on the pitch, in the training grounds, up in the stands or online. This initiative underlines the commitment of the Gaelic Games family to tackling the scourge of bullying and to protect and safeguard all those who participate. The initiative equips young people to identify and learn how to respond to online abuse and bullying, with the learnings then applied to a sports setting. I congratulate the GAA and partners Google on this welcome and important initiative and look forward to it being rolled out to children in clubs across the country.”

Online, Offline: 7 Ways to Safeguard Your Privacy While Using the Internet

Whether you like it or not, the internet is an inescapable part of day-to-day life. Everything from communication to entertainment to information access has a home on the world wide web, offering limitless access to information in seconds. However, the online world is also ripe with risk, leaving many vulnerable to costly cyberattacks. 

Thankfully, you can safeguard your privacy online by implementing proper precautions. Read on for seven cybersecurity tips to keep your information safe while enjoying life online. 

Use private browsing

A straightforward yet effective way to protect your online privacy is by utilizing private browsing settings. With the simple click of a button, you can search the web without leaving a record of your browser activity. However, it’s worth noting private browsers cannot combat sophisticated tracking applications. So, if you’re looking for additional protection, consider installing a VPN to direct cyberattacks away from sensitive info. 

Don’t reveal your home address

Though it may seem safe to enter your home address into online shopping sites or internet forms, even secured sites are prone to data breaches. Thankfully, you can circumvent the system by utilizing mailroom P.O. boxes—a separate address for packages and mail. You can even sign up for cheaper virtual address options, enabling you to forward deliveries to your home without compromising your address. 

Use tracking protection

Though web browsers have built-in tracking protection to block third-party surveillance, many users employ additional security features to ensure online anonymity. For example, Disconnect and Ghostery are free browser extensions that disrupt direct pathways to your server, keeping you safe from hover-happy sites. 

Use two-factor authentication on your accounts

Though it may be frustrating, enabling two-factor authentication on email and social sites can save you from low-level hacks and password breaches. In addition to entering your passcode, authentication applications will generate a unique, one-time code necessary for entrance. By adding a second layer of security to your online accounts, you can reduce the risk of a costly cyber attack.

Don’t over-share on social media

Though it’s typical for social media users to share personal information online—whether through pictures or words—over-sharing on the world wide web comes with a price. For example, uploading a photo with identifiable features can compromise your location, leaving you vulnerable to online and in-person threats. So, next time you upload to Instagram or Facebook, think long and hard about the information you’re sharing with the online world.

Always use strong passwords

The simplest way to protect yourself against data breaches is by creating strong passwords and updating them frequently. Instead of leaning toward the traditional route of birthdays and maiden names, consider throwing in numbers, symbols, and capitalization to throw hackers off your trail.

Use virtual private networks

A virtual private network–or VPN—protects your personal information by encrypting data before leaving your computer and traveling to an off-site server. Whether you’re protecting yourself from public Wi-Fi networks or simply want a security cushion at home, installing a well-reviewed VPN can keep tracking to a minimum. 

What’s next?

The internet is both a precarious and powerful tool. Unfortunately, many online interactions aren’t secure, which is why implementing proper security protocols is a must for internet enthusiasts. By enabling private browsing, upgrading to a VPN, and upgrading all passwords, you can enjoy the online world anxiety-free. 

Review – Blincc – The First Self Blinking Super Bright Reflector

Most of will be aware of the constant Road Safety Authority aims of the ‘National Be Safe, Be Seen’ is to remind people of the importance of wearing high visibility material when out walking, cycling or motorcycling. The Blincclip is a step in the right direction with its self-blinking super-bright reflector. This can be fitted indoors or outdoors with dual colours: Red (night) +fluorescent yellow (day). The material itself is designed for outdoor use

The kit came with a 3M Diamond Grade micro prismatic reflector ( Size: 88×66 mm  ) and a variety of Stipes that can be fitted to surfaces or tied on with the supplied string or attached to a bike saddlebag. The manufacturers quote the Blincclip reflects nearly 58% of the headlight beam.

A set of custom 3M 360 and dynamic reflectors that you install on your rims and frame. The Blincc Hex is enhanced with a crystal clear protective layer for extra durability and tear resistant. 

blincc techbuzzireland

Installation:

The installation is of a personal choice in terms of what to fit the Blincclip to and where to fit it If used on a bike the various strips are pulled of and can be fitted to the wheel frame, personal choice can be made in terms of the approach taken in the various length that can be used. The custom 3M 360 reflectors can be  installed on the  rims or bike frame This is ideal for the younger generation that often feels “ uncool” to have the extra safety equipment fitted, This option allows the tailoring of the locations, design placing of the strips while maintaining safe visibility during the dark nights.

Warranty :

This is excellent to see on the warranty side “BLINCC product comes with a no-hassle, no-rhetoric lifetime guarantee”

Overall

This is a simple effective way to improve safety,  from a Singapore cycling brand that won’t break the bank whether used on bike or attached to outdoor gear.

Buy

Useful Tips That Will Help You Avoid Becoming The Victim Of Identity Theft

We live in the digital era where almost all facets of our lives are strongly tied to online activity. However, security threats such as hacking, identity, or data theft are increasingly becoming a cause for concern. Fortunately, there are preventive measures you can take to secure your information. Here are some useful tips that will help you avoid becoming a victim of identity theft. 

 

Secure Your Accounts With Strong Passwords

The most important thing you should consider is to secure your accounts with strong passwords. Make sure each account has a strong password consisting of more than 10 characters, including letters in upper and lower cases as well as figures. You should regularly change your password and do not use your nickname or other names that are easy to guess. Never share your password with anyone, even someone very close to you. You may never know what they will do with your data. 

Know Your Legal Rights

You should know your legal rights to avoid a situation where you can become a victim of identity theft. It is vital to know that no one should use your information without your consent. Companies usually collect customer details for different purposes. However, no company should use your information for whatever reason without consent. It is vital to seek legal advice from quality lawyers to understand how you can protect your information. When you engage a professional lawyer, you will also learn different steps you can take if you feel that your privacy has been violated. 

Use VPN 

Do you know that your online activity using a public Wi-Fi network can be accessed by unauthorized persons? If you want to perform sensitive transactions like online banking, you should never use a public internet café. The other thing is that your internet service provider can also access your information from their servers. Therefore, you can consider using a virtual private network (VPN) if you are concerned about your security and privacy. VPN provides data encryption solutions that make it difficult for an unauthorized person to access your data. 

VPN also gives you online privacy and anonymity through the creation of a private network that cannot be detected easily from a public internet connection. It hides your internet protocol (IP) address meaning that it will be impossible for anyone to trace your online activity. In a country where censorship is common, you should use the right VPN. Furthermore, a VPN also protects your browsing history since your online activity will be associated with the VPN provider’s server IP address located in a different place. In other words, a VPN gives you total protection. 

Secure Your Records

You must secure all your financial statements or other papers with sensitive records. When you want to dispose of physical records like insurance forms, financial statements, expired ATM cards, medical statements, or any other personal information, shred them. Alternatively, you can burn the documents you no longer need to ensure that no one will access them. You must not leave confidential information in the open, even at your workplace. 

Secure your mail

Make sure your mailbox is empty every time since criminals usually target it. When mailing items like checks and outgoing bill payments, make sure you do it from the post office or any other secure place. Additionally, you must be very careful when dealing with people who may ask for your private details. If someone asks for your data, you must check the reasons why they need the information. If it is for marketing purposes, you should verify with the company first and make sure third parties do not access your confidential information. 

Monitor Financial Statements

You must closely monitor your financial statement or credit report to ensure that your data is correct. If your account has been tampered with, all the details will come to your credit card report. If you suspect foul play, notify the credit card provider immediately and block the card. In the same vein, you must keep your social security number in a safe place. Don’t carry cards with your number since you can lose them.   

There is nothing more important than securing what’s yours. While we do most of our transactions online during the current period, cybersecurity threats are real. Identity theft can lead to loss of money, or your data can be used in the commission of various crimes. There are different measures you can take to protect your data from unauthorized people. The tips above can go a long way in preventing you from becoming a victim.     

BlueParrott Introduces Two New Wireless Headsets with Active Noise Cancellation for Safe, Hands-Free Communication Behind the Wheel

BlueParrott, a leader in wireless headset technology, and part of the GN Audio family alongside sister brand Jabra, announced the launch of the new S650-XT and B650-XT headsets, built for the modern-day trucker. The S650-XT and B650-XT Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) wireless headsets are engineered to give you a superior call and sound performance both on and off the road. Designed for truck drivers, these headsets offer a durable form factor to withstand the most challenging environments, including new stereo to mono convertibility with the S650-XT.

Convertible Stereo-Mono Sound

The S650-XT is the first convertible headset from BlueParrott with stereo to mono sound. With the push of a button, the S650-XT is engineered to allow drivers to convert from an immersive 2-earcup stereo experience to a mono headset. Designed for drivers who need safe, hands-free communication while trucking, but also want an immersive media experience when pulled over after a long haul, the S650-XT delivers the flexibility to do so.

 Hear and Be Heard on the motorway

Equipped with powerful ANC, the BlueParrott S650-XT and B650-XT headsets work to remove ambient noise from your surroundings, giving your ears a rest and leaving you free to immerse yourself in whatever, or whoever, you’re listening to. The ultra-noise-cancelling microphones remove an industry-leading 96% of background noise from your end of the call. Even in the middle of a busy motorway, with the windows down and music blaring, the person you talk to will hear you loud and clear.

With up to 36 hours of talk time, the S650-XT and B650-XT headsets allow you to stay connected even on the longest of trucking routes. And with up to 300 ft / 100 m of wireless range, drivers are given the flexibility to leave their phones behind and get out to stretch their legs or check their truck without worrying about the connection dropping.

A Durable Design and Personalised Experience

On the road you don’t always have time to tuck your headset away carefully, which is why the S650-XT and B650-XT are built to withstand a bit of rough treatment. IP54-rated protection from dust and water makes these sturdy headsets the ideal cab companion. Additionally, ergonomically designed with soft, flexible ear cushions and an adjustable headband, the headsets provide a comfortable fit from the first mile to the last.

Beyond the customisable fit, both headsets also provide personalised programming with the BlueParrott Button™ for instant access to your most-used feature, keeping your hands and eyes on the road. For safe, hands-free communication behind the wheel, the S650-XT and B650-XT also allow drivers to use their voice to activate the headset, control calls, GPS directions, music, voice assistants and more.

“Life on the road can be very noisy and it is essential for those who work in loud and high-mobility environments to be able to take calls and perform their jobs in a safe and comfortable manner,” said Yves Dupuis, SVP for the BlueParrott brand. “With the S650-XT we have developed BlueParrott’s first ever convertible headset, giving drivers the flexibility they need on the road to transition from a mono sound experience while driving to stereo so they can enjoy everything from movies to music and more. Both the S650-XT and B650-XT provide the first-class noise cancellation, call quality, durability and personalisation that those in the trucking industry need to stay safely connected while on the road.”

BlueParrott S650-XT key features and specifications:

  • 2-in-1 convertible from stereo to mono sound
  • 96% noise-cancelling mic
  • Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
  • Up to 36 hours of talk time
  • IP54-rated durability
  • Customisable BlueParrott Button™
  • Hands-free voice control
  • One-year warranty

 

BlueParrott B650-XT key features and specifications:

  • 96% noise-cancelling mic for clear calls
  • Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
  • Up to 36 hours of talk time
  • IP54-rated durability
  • Customisable BlueParrott Button™
  • Hands-free voice control
  • One-year warranty

 

Pricing and Availability
The BlueParrott S650-XT and B650-XT wireless headsets will be available for pre-order on BlueParrott.co.uk from November 1st, in-store and online at Amazon at the end of the month. The headsets will retail for S650-XT at £229.99 GBP and B650-XT at £199.99 GBP.

KidsBeeTV: a new brand on kids’ streaming apps #edtech #streaming

The edtech Magikbee announced that its popular kids’ video app KiddZtube  undertook a rebrand and is now called KidsBeeTV. 

KidsBeeTV borrows the “Bee” from the parent brand Magikbee, and is deeply  committed to being “The kids’ app that cares”. Like bees help plants grow, the new  brand wants to have a positive impact in kids’ development. 

“We needed a brand that clearly expressed our values – family fun, positive education  and diversity. We have more than a safe, fun and educational app for kids. We have an  interactive video experience that sparks imagination and curiosity. And we also care a  lot about parents. They can monitor kids’ activity, questions answered, and, to protect  

their kids from being too much time in front of a screen, daily time limits can be  setup”, explains Hugo Ribeiro, Magikbee’s CEO. 

KidsBeeTV, a global brand with a global  message 

In the last few years, there was a major growth in the offer of streaming services for  kids. Magikbee needed to stand out showing what makes it different.  

The name change is accompanied by a refresh on the brand’s visual identity, with a  new colorful palette that suggests diversity, in line with its global expansion strategy.  The USA and the Middle East are the two main markets of KidsBeeTV, but the app  has customers worldwide in more than 200 countries. That is why it needed to build  a diversified catalog: to answer to a variety of kids’ interests and to meet the  demands of a growing worldwide community of parents that seek to find content  that respects cultural differences and, at the same time, resonates a universal  language. 

Magikbee has been licensing content for KidsBeeTV from the best studios and  content producers. The most recent agreements were inked with studios like  Millimages (Molang and Mouk), Twist Animation (TuTiTu), Xilam (Where’s Chicky) or  Aurora World (Yoohoo and Friends). Some youtubers, like Caletha Playtime and  Get Matt, are also making their way into the app, but, contrary to what happens on  the social network, there are no videos with unboxings or product placement – only  positive meaningful messages are allowed to pass KidsBeeTV filters conducted by  teachers.  

Videos curated by teachers, quiz questions  on top 

Good-quality, engaging and age-appropriate videos continue to be the core of the  app. The videos are curated by teachers and other specialists, and to make the  experience less passive, the app offers pop-up quiz questions (ABC, Colors,  Counting, Language, Maths, Science, among others) on top of the videos. 

“For more than a decade, YouTube was almost synonymous with video streaming. At  the time we started our platform, it made sense to present it as a safe alternative to  YouTube for young kids. The name “kiddZtube” reflected that mission. But now our  mission is broader”, says Hugo.

Hugo came up with the idea for the app because of a challenge he was facing as a  parent: finding a safe environment for his daughters to watch good-quality videos  without the risk of crossing paths with inappropriate or even disturbing content,  such as the violent parodies of Peppa Pig and other cartoons widely reported a  couple of years ago. 

As he deepened in the searches, he found that there was a need for wider curation.  

Kids learn best when they are having fun 

“We know the importance learning in the early years plays on kids’ development and  we are committed to helping them discover their abilities and reach their full potential.  This is not a curriculum-based app, nevertheless, we do have curriculum-based  entertainment and activities. The main purpose of the app is to be fun. Being  educational is a natural consequence of the kind of content we hand-pick and the way  we choose to present it to the kids. They learn best when they are having fun”, tells  Hugo. 

The platform features now more than 500 hours of video and plans to add more IPs  monthly aimed at kids up to 8 years old. Having no ads and an image-based  interface, it is perfect for young kids, especially toddlers and preschoolers. 

Website – KidsBeeTV
App Stores: iOS | Google Play | Amazon