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The refrigerant R-22, also known as chlorodifluoromethane, was banned earlier this year and is currently illegal to make or bring to the United States. It contains HCFCs, or greenhouse gases, that cause damage to the ozone layer when released into the atmosphere. In order to slow the environmental damage that has already occurred, governments have worked together to limit the number of ozone-depleting substances that can be used.

For years, R-22 refrigerant has been in the process of being phased out. Systems that run on it have likely reached their lifespan and are no longer effective. So, if an older R-22 system springs a leak, a tough decision has to be made. Facility managers can either retrofit the system for a replacement refrigerant, or replace the system entirely. Upgrading and retrofitting old R-22 infrastructure to work with a replacement refrigerant can save equipment, energy, money and the environment.

ALTERNATIVE REFRIGERANTS

RK Service’s expertly trained team of technicians can evaluate the refrigerant in your commercial system, recommend the right replacement option and execute the required retrofit or replacement. Call 877.576.9696 or email service@rkservice.com to schedule an appointment with one of RK Service’s expert technicians today.

Prevention

Recognizing warning signs of suicidal behavior is the first step in prevention. The following actions may indicate that someone is thinking about suicide.

If there is concern that someone may be contemplating suicide, ask them in a discreet and supportive way. Depression can prevent people from opening up. So, if you really believe something is wrong, keep asking and tell them about the changes that you have noticed in them. While it isn’t always easy, asking if an at-risk person has a plan and removing or disabling the lethal means can save their life.

Intervention

If they admit that they are suicidal, be there for them. Listen carefully about what they are thinking and feeling. Acknowledging and talking about suicide can actually reduce suicidal thoughts. Refer them to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255) and the Crisis Text Line’s number: 741741 for further support. Getting them to a trained professional is important, as they may need to be hospitalized until the crisis has passed.

If you can, consider removing harmful objects from their home that could be used for suicide, such as knives, firearms, ropes, pills and household cleaners containing dangerous chemicals. If the person takes a prescription that could be used for an overdose, encourage them to have someone else safeguard it.

Once someone has made it through a suicide crisis, they will still need ongoing support. Meeting regularly with a therapist is highly advised to work through the issues that brought them to considering suicide. This can help them find coping strategies in case thoughts of suicide begin to emerge again. Honoring milestones, like making it through another week or month is a great way to move forward with healing.

Additionally, after you have helped someone through a suicide crisis, staying in touch with them can make a big difference. Suicide death rates go down when someone regularly follows up with the at-risk person.

Even though it can be frightening to help someone through a suicide crisis, it is important to take action.  Most suicides can be prevented if the warning signs are recognized soon enough. By reaching out and getting them the support they need before it’s too late, you can help to save a life.

National Suicide Prevention Hotline:
1.800.273.8255 (English)
1.888.628.9454 (Espanol)
1.800.273.8255 (Deaf and Hard of Hearing)

Crisis Text Line:
Text “Hello” to 741741

 

Now that many teams around the world are working remotely, keeping lines of communication open is more important than ever. Lack of consistent communication can leave teammates feeling isolated and out of the loop. New approaches are necessary to keep teams engaged and focused. Here are the top 8 ways to maintain cohesion while working apart.

  1. Provide the Right Tools
    Giving your team the right virtual tools that allow for online collaboration and project management help make work smooth and effortless, leading teams to be more successful and happier.
  2. Do Regular Check-ins
    Check-in with the team regularly not just about projects but also about their wellbeing.
  3. Don’t Micromanage
    Aside from the check-ins, trust that your team is getting the work done. Constant micromanaging can be demotivating and distracting. In addition, pay attention to your tone. Typed messages often carry more weight, leaving employees feeling a lack of respect.
  4. Offer Transparency
    Transparency and knowledge sharing help members of a remote team do their job more effectively. Whenever possible, involve employees in decisions that will affect them too.
  5. Prioritize Video Conferences
    While phone calls can work in a pinch, choose video calls whenever possible. Being able to see each other can reduce the feeling of isolation as well as increase interaction and brainstorming, helping to keep the creativity flowing.
  6. Set Clear Expectations and Boundaries
    Reduce frustration by setting clear expectations from the onset such as expected specific working hours and break times, as well as how much you expect them to accomplish each day.
  7. Recognition and Gratitude
    Employees and teams need to know when they are killing it, not just when they need improvement. Remember to acknowledge great work and helpful moments, and spread the gratitude to higher levels and other departments.
  8. Encourage Social Time
    Having personal conversations with each other and playing games can help to strengthen the team’s connection.

    Having a remote team can bring many advantages. With the right tools, communication and policies, teams can enjoy the best of them, while easily managing challenges along the way.

     

    1. Expert Panel, 14 Tips for Keeping a Distributed Team Cohesive, Forbes, July 1, 2020
    2. Hannah Price, 5 Ways to Keep a Distributed Team Cohesive, Jostle, accessed July 23, 2020
    3. Andrea Woroch, 10 Ways Remote Workers Can Improve Communication Skills, U.S. News, April 2, 2020

    With COVID-19 continuing to spread across the U.S., safety teams remain on high alert. In addition to standard practices, construction sites have already implemented various new policies to help prevent the spread of the coronavirus, including:

    Now that summer is in full swing, there are additional hazards and challenges to consider. These top summer safety practices can help keep construction workers safe when the heat is intense.

    1. Avoid long periods of work in direct mid-day sunshine. If possible, complete portions of work that must be performed out in the open early or late in the day.
    2. Stay hydrated. Do not wait until thirst sets in to drink fluids, drink them regularly throughout the day. Avoid caffeinated and sugary beverages as they can add to dehydration. Instead, focus on mainly drinking water.
    3. Eat smart. Eating a heavy meal can make the body sluggish, especially in the heat. Instead, try to choose lighter healthier options for lunch to keep you energized throughout the afternoon. In addition, salty snacks throughout the day can help to replenish sodium lost through sweat.
    4. Wear sunscreen and lightweight breathable clothing, in lighter colors. Not only will this protect your skin from UV rays but it will also help keep your body temperature down.
    5. Take regular breaks, preferably in shaded areas. While resting, use that time to drink water, eat a small snack and reapply sunscreen. When removing your face covering to cool off or eat a snack, make sure to do so a safe distance from others.
    6. Be aware of signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. If after excessive sweating, you begin to feel dizzy, nauseous, confused or disoriented, have slurred speech, get a throbbing heading or worse, you suddenly stop sweating altogether, you need to hydrate immediately. If you recognize these symptoms in yourself or anyone else, get immediate medical attention, as this can result in death or disability.

    The following resources offer more advice on summer construction safety: Construction’s Top 5 Summer Safety Hazards and What To Do About Them, 17 Summer Safety Tips for Construction: Keep Your Team Safe in the Heat and 10 Hot-Weather Safety Tips for Construction.

    Additionally, check out OSHA’s COVID-19 Guidance for the Construction Workforce or the CDC’s What Construction Workers Need to Know about COVID-19, for more advice on how to stay safe during the pandemic.

    Thanks to all the hardworking construction workers who are helping to build and grow our communities. Stay safe out there!

    As states continue to gradually reopen, people are experiencing high levels of stress as they learn to reintegrate back into the community, public spaces and work environments. With the added pressure of going back into office settings, comes a great deal of anxiety for a lot of people. Whether in the office or continuing to work from home, here are some ways in which you can learn to manage your stress during this pandemic.

    Reach Out
    Mental health experts agree that reaching out for help during this uncertain time is more important than ever. With therapists now available through apps and conference calls, it’s easier than ever to obtain confidential, therapy from trained professionals. There are various options available through insurance or free from local state agencies. If therapy isn’t your cup of tea, just reaching out to a close friend or family member can also have the same benefits. Sometimes just sharing your experience is all it takes to ease your mind.

    Structure
    When attempting to maintain a positive work/life balance, it can be difficult to follow a consistent schedule when working from home or remotely. It’s important to provide yourself and your family as much structure as possible to avoid any additional chaotic stress caused by unknowns. Getting a schedule together for your workday and/or family time, schools schedules, etc. may alleviate additional pressure caused by inconsistency.

    Be Patient with Yourself
    The rapid lifestyle changes that accompanied the pandemic are something that we have never experienced before. Oftentimes, we can put undue pressure on ourselves to “be okay” which can exacerbate the issues. Give yourself the space to experience emotions and also be honest with your peers and management staff on how to best help you through this challenging time.

    Take Breaks
    Working from home can often quickly lead to burnout. Because a vast majority of individuals are now working from home, the molding of home and work life can have a negative impact on your mental health and well-being. It’s important to give yourself a set work schedule while also ensuring that you are taking time off. Your European vacation may have been cancelled, but still take those days off to make sure you’re giving your body and mind the breaks they need.

    Physical Activity
    Small amounts of daily physical activity release much needed endorphins to improve mood and overall health. Even if it’s taking your dog for a small walk or a short 30-minute yoga break during the day, your mental health relies on body movement.

    RK understands the importance of mental health care and we invest in the well-being of our associates. If you or a family member are struggling with thoughts of suicide, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1.800.273.8255.

    COVID-19 has created significant business disruptions worldwide, and has owners and operators wondering what steps to take to ensure occupant safety going forward. Beyond just cleaning out HVAC/R systems, advanced bi-polar ionization surface and air purification systems are the modern technology facilities should consider installing to ensure their building provides a healthy environment.

    Research proves that surface and air purification technology implemented directly into a building’s HVAC system can significantly reduce harmful bacteria and viruses in the air.

    TOP SIX BENEFITS OF BI-POLAR IONIZATION SYSTEMS:

    1. Significantly reduces dangerous bacteria and virus including human coronavirus, norovirus, staph, MRSA, E.Coli, clostridium difficile (C.DIFF), tuberculosis (TB), airborne mold spores and legionella pneumophilia.
    2. Does not produce detectable Ozone*, or volitile organic chemicals (VOCs). There is no catalytic process. *UL 2998 recommends Ozone levels of less than .005 PPM. Insure all air-cleansing technologies carry the UL label. 
    3. No replacements parts and minimal maintenance. Self-cleaning systems are an option.
    4. System lifespan is up to 20 years with continual use and includes a 1-year warranty period.
    5. Universal voltage applicable to all systems.
    6. Tackles odors, particulates and static electricity in living spaces.

    It is not a matter of if this technology will become a building code requirement, but when. Stay ahead of future interruptions to your business by installing a trusted purification system now.

    RK Service highly recommends a bi-polar purification system install in all facilities. Our evaluation and three-step systems approach gives owners and operators the confidence they need to welcome occupants back into their buildings. Contact us to learn more.

    With the sudden arrival of COVID-19 and the immediate need for office employees to begin working from home, businesses swiftly and effectively moved their teams of professionals home, so they could productively and effectively continue daily operations without being placed in harm’s way.

    Now that some restrictions have been lifted, and new Safer-at-Home guidelines are being put into place, businesses face new challenges when bringing their dedicated staff back into their offices. As businesses slowly begin reintroducing people back into shared-spaces, they do so with the utmost care to ensure their workforces are safe and comfortable. Here are some precautions companies are taking to prepare their employees for a seamless return.

    Effective, Consistent Communication

    When dealing with any kind of crisis, clear, concise communications are of the utmost priority. Throughout the pandemic, it’s important to continually monitor and communicate with employees through text, emails, newsletters, and via social media. Internal video messages are also extremely effective modes of communication because they provide that (albeit virtually) face-to-face interaction that is so needed right now. Clear and frequent communications also serve as effective means to ward off unnecessary rumors and to also keep employees informed of upcoming changes and news.

    Mitigate Anxiety

    With the return of the workforce into the office, comes a great amount of anxiety. After spending months in a contained, safe space, many employees will be extremely nervous coming back into a shared-space. Additional steps to ease the minds of all employees are of the utmost importance during these uncertain times. These precautions include proper safety equipment (gloves, masks, social distancing procedures, etc.) and perhaps outside counseling availability to help associates with the stressful transition. It’s important that businesses listen to and address any concerns that may arise from employees. Remember this transition will impact everyone differently, so addressing even the smallest issue can provide comfort.

    Continued Work from Home Options

    For those employees who are health compromised, have childcare issues, or may just feel unsafe returning to the office, it’s important to offer continued work-from-home options. While it’s understood, that some employees need to return to the office in order to complete their job requirements, companies must always take into consideration each employee’s individual needs. It’s vital for employees to know that as long as their specific job requirements are being met, there is no need for them to be physically in the office. This versatility is necessary to establish trust and open communication in this new age of quarantine.

    Detailed Plan and Policies

    In addition to creating a safe working environment for employees, companies must also have extremely detailed plans and policies in place prior to anyone physically returning into the office. These policies and plans include, but are certainly not limited to: updated hygiene policies, social distancing protocols, revised business hours including transition periods to conduct proper cleaning, and revised work schedules to ensure you’re meeting the 50% Colorado issued capacity ordinance.

    Building Preparation

    Hiring experienced COVID-19 cleaning experts should be your number one priority prior to allowing employees back into the office. Although your current cleaning staff may have been acceptable pre-pandemic, it’s important that new cleaning protocols are now followed. Deep cleanings are essential to keep your employees safe. It’s also important to possibly install new, no-touch hand sanitizers, door opening devices and lavatory devices to be certain your employees aren’t coming into contact with anything dangerous. These new precautions will ease the minds of your workforce and also limit your company’s legal liability.

    Although transitioning back into the office can be stressful, you can make it as comfortable as possible by taking the proper safety precautions, but more importantly, by reassuring your employees that you’re working in their best interest. By consistently and effectively communicating with your staff, you will help to put their minds at ease and reaffirm that we are truly all in this together.

    Each new year brings predictions about trends that may impact the construction industry. 2020 appears to  be hyper-focused on the health and well-being of employees. The current labor shortage has highlighted the need for a  more strategic approach to worker’s safety, health and wellness, and innovative technology that will change the approach of the normal work-day for the better. Let’s explore some of the trends that are predicted to impact our workforce and worksites in 2020.

    Offsite Solutions are the New Standard
    To control costs, create  faster speed-to-market, and incorporate better consistency and quality,  companies have been choosing offsite manufacturing and modular solutions. These approaches have grown in popularity over the past decade and are more in demand than ever.  The healthcare and apartment industries have seen projects built faster than ever with much of the construction happening offsite in a controlled manufacturing environment that eliminates surprises and mitigates risk. The demand will continue to grow for offsite and modular solutions in 2020.

    State-Of-The-Art Safety Equipment
    Safety is the cornerstone of the construction industry, requiring top-of-the-line safety equipment, which is ever evolving. In 2020, one of the most intriguing new gadgets to hit the market are exoskeletons. These wearable machines have motorized joints which decrease laborer injury while allowing them to safely carry more weight. Another exciting tool recently released is “smart” work boots. These seemingly regular boots connect to Wi-Fi and send GPS coordinates to alert supervisors if their employees are exhausted or have fallen. We’re excited to see what other technological advances this year will bring our way.

    Incorporation of New Technology
    The incorporation of technology doesn’t mean the need for skilled laborers will decrease. In fact, introducing new technology into the construction industry is only meant to streamline current work practices. With the introduction of  3-D printing, mobile and cloud applications, drones, and advanced BIM technology, individuals can now work more efficiently, save costs, and help projects run more efficiently. Part of the increase in the interest in new technology stems from the demographical change in workforce. The construction industry is seeing an increase in aging workers retiring, so the focus has shifted to a younger workforce who may be less knowledgable, and greatly benefit from the help of newly released tech tools.

    New Health and Wellness Initiatives
    As a leader of health and wellness and suicide prevention in the construction industry, discovering new ways to ensure our employees are healthy, happy, and heard is a top priority at RK. From early addiction intervention to on-site wellness coaches, RK is facing the health and wellness issues of our employees head-on. It’s important that the construction industry continues to destigmatize mental health and addiction issues, and embrace any new strategies meant to support our employees.

    Adjustment to Labor Shortage
    Labor shortage in the construction industry has been an ongoing challenge for several years, but leaders in the industry are finding creative ways to offset the effects. RK is addressing the labor shortage with our successful apprenticeship program, in-house leadership and management training programs, incorporation of new technology, and  competitive wages. As an aging workforce approaches retirement, it’s important that construction companies begin to move into more forward-thinking policies and standards to entice today’s younger labor force.

    There’s no true indication of how 2020’s construction trends will impact our industry, but the focus should always ensure profitability while also maintaining the health and wellness of employees. This new decade is an exciting time for the construction industry, and as it evolves, it’s imperative to stay up-to-date on products and services that will keep the industry competitive and successful.

    There is a facility management staffing shortage happening now. Although the number of available positions in the industry is growing, there is serious concern about finding skilled labor to fill the roles. Not only do employers need to attract new staff to meet the expanding demand, but they also need to think about the all of the vacancies that occur as older workers enter retirement. The average age of facility management workers is 51 years old.

    The labor shortage is not just happening in the United States, but worldwide. The pool of workers is down due to younger workers pursuing careers that they perceive as higher status with lower unemployment rates and competition. According to a recent survey by the Manpower Group, 45 percent of all employers say they can’t find the skilled workers they need, and skilled trades ranks as the hardest to find skill set of all.

    Unfortunately, this skilled labor shortage has led to many companies putting off regular facility system maintenance. These delays can cause many issues, including:

    Although it is easy to overlook when understaffed, regular maintenance of facility systems not only saves money but also ensures safety.

    So, what should facility managers do if they aren’t able to hire the skilled talent that they need? The best options involve working with skilled talent from a third party. Whether this means having someone brought in to train your existing internal team, or collaborating with them to handle specific things such as preventative maintenance, both can bring great benefits. RK Service offers both of these options and is happy to work with companies to figure out the right combination of training and maintenance to fit their needs.

    RK Foundation

    For over 50 years, RK has supported numerous non-profit and charitable organizations that improve the quality of life in our community. Since 2011, we have continued this proud tradition of philanthropy through the RK Foundation (RKF). We recycle scrap metal generated in our fabrication facilities and from projects across RK’s seven business units, and all funds generated support the work of the RK Foundation.

    The RKF has granted $100k since January 2019 with a cumulative total of $1.39M to date! Each quarter, the RKF Board of Directors reviews grant applications and determines which organizations best align with our core advocacy areas of education, health and community development, as well as our mission to build better lives by strengthening communities and providing opportunities for those most in need. 

    Some recent grant recipients include the Community College of Denver, Fisher House, Women’s Bean Project, Homes for Our Troops, CureSearch and Metropolitan State University of Denver.

    RK Cares Foundation

    The RK Cares Foundation serves as the philanthropic and corporate citizenship arm of RK, overseeing our employee volunteer program as well as the company’s community outreach and engagement. Each year, RK Cares volunteers participate in 10 – 12 group volunteer activities and give back to our community.

    HERO Fund

    Additionally, RK Cares administers the newly established HERO Fund, which empowers RK employees to help reduce the burden when unexpected life events occur. The program officially launched in early September with a $25k donation from the RK Foundation. All donations collected are used to support RK employees, their families, and the community.

    Feeling Inspired? Volunteering your time is the easiest thing you can do! Call your favorite local non-profit and ask them what you and your family can do to help.