You down with PPE? Yeah, you know me!
Google AI explains it as "Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) refers to any clothing or equipment worn to minimize exposure to hazards in the workplace and protect the wearer's health and safety. PPE is considered the last line of defense when other controls cannot eliminate or reduce the hazard adequately." I've always viewed personal protective equipment (PPE) as my primary shield for staying safe and healthy on the job. With machinery that can spin at speeds up to 10,000 RPM, it’s essential to prioritize my protection. What about you? What PPE do you typically use in your work? For me, I rely on: Ear protection: Since most of our tools operate at high decibel levels, it’s crucial to safeguard my hearing. I personally prefer foam earplugs over earmuffs for comfort. Eye protection: When handling equipment like line trimmers, mowers, chainsaws, and blowers, debris can go flying everywhere. I want to ensure my eyes stay safe from any potential hazards. Safety boots: I opt for high-rise boots with steel or composite toes and plates to protect my feet. Long pants: These are important for shielding my legs from rocks and other materials that can become projectiles. Sun hat: Keeping my head and shoulders covered helps shield me from the sun's rays while I work. Remember, taking these precautions not only keeps us safe but also helps us enjoy our work without worry! One more important type of PPE—at least in my view—is knowledge! It’s really vital to have as many staff members trained in First Aid as possible.
The $10,000 Flush: Why Your "Flushable" Wipes are Killing Your Septic System
We see it every week. A homeowner calls us out for a backup, swearing they’ve done everything right. They don't put grease down the drain, they don't use the garbage disposal, and they even use those expensive "septic-safe" additives they found at the big-box store. Then we open the tank. What do we find? A "mat" of flushable wipes that looks like a wet wool sweater and a system that is literally choking to death. At First Turn Grading & Septic, we’re tired of seeing good people waste thousands of dollars because of clever marketing. It’s time to set the record straight. The "Flushable" Lie Manufacturers can call a wipe "flushable" simply because it disappears when you pull the handle. That doesn't mean it breaks down. Unlike toilet paper, which is designed to dissolve in seconds, these wipes are reinforced with plastic or synthetic fibers. In a septic tank, they don't disintegrate. They float, they clog your inlet pipe, and eventually, they make their way into your drain field. Once they’re in the drain field, you aren't looking at a simple pumping job anymore—you're looking at a full system replacement. Stop "Seeding" Your Tank with Junk We’ve heard it all: "Flush a dead mouse," "Add a packet of yeast," or "Use this monthly chemical booster." Here is the truth: Your body provides all the bacteria your septic tank needs. Most additives actually do more harm than good by breaking down solids too much, suspended them in the liquid, and allowing them to flow into your drain field pipes where they cause permanent clogs. The Only Three Things You Should Flush If it isn't one of these three things, it belongs in the trash can: **bleep** Poop Paper (Toilet paper only!) Let’s Settle This in the Comments: We know some of you swear by your additives or "flushable" wipes. Have you ever had a tech tell you your tank was "clean" while using them? Or have you been the victim of a "flushable wipe" backup? Drop a comment below—tell us your worst septic horror story or tell us why we’re wrong about the wipes! We respond to every single one.Do you utilize battery-powered tools?
Handheld battery-powered tools have come a long way from their first iterations, especially over the past few years. I've started making the switch away from gas-powered equipment throughout the last few seasons for my business and have found the switch to be positive for my workflow and bottom line. This is a trend I believe will continue as batteries become more powerful and long-lasting. Are you utilizing any battery-powered equipment and, if so, do you have any favorites you'd like to share??Looking for Recommendations on Affordable, Reliable Landscaping Tools
Hi everyone! I’m fairly new to landscaping started this year, and I’m looking for some advice from the pros who’ve been doing this a lot longer than I have. Right now, I handle everything from gutter cleanings and hedge trimmings (boxwoods, hedges, leaf removal) to weed eating and general yard work. I’m working with basic tools and a lot of heart and passion. Most of the money I earn goes right back into the business, so I don’t have top-tier equipment yet. I’m hoping to get recommendations on reliable, affordable leaf blowers, trimmers, hedge clippers, and any other tools or gear that make jobs easier and more efficient. I’m still researching and plan to upgrade one piece at a time as I can afford it. Any tips or advice would mean a lot thank you all in advance!Let's get specific! What are your top cleaning tools & pieces of equipment for commercial cleaning?
Hey guys, I wish I had a refined list of the best solutions, tools & equipment when I first started out. Lets get really specific and share what are your best tools, equipment & solutions for on the job, that saves you time, money and energy? 1.) High Dusting 2.) Low Dusting 3.) Disinfecting 4.) Scrubbing 5.) Hard Floor Cleaning 6.) Carpet Cleaning 7.) Wood Cleaning 8.) Window Washing 9.) Stainless Steel Cleaning 10.) Eco Friendly Solutions Bonus 11.) Must haves in the cleaning bag!
