CO2 Monitors Can Increase Productivity

Carbon Dioxide is a gas produced naturally by humans when they exhale. Despite making up much of the Earth’s atmosphere, too much of this gas can have adverse effects on the body. For example, in humans, increased levels of CO2 can cause discomfort, stiffness, and drowsiness. While these effects may be minimal, they can decrease one’s work ethic and productivity, particularly in a workplace environment with poor ventilation.

CO2 is measured in parts per million, or ppm, and is considered a normal level indoors at 450-600 ppm. Once levels reach 600-1000 ppm, there may be complaints of air stuffiness and general muscle discomfort. After 1000 ppm, drowsiness is likely to occur, with effects strengthening as the level increases. Carbon Dioxide levels don’t become too dangerous until 50,000 ppm, with nausea, headaches and impairment. Death can occur at 100,000 ppm, which is very unlikely in a normal environment.

In order to properly analyze CO2 levels, an indoor air quality monitor can be used to ensure a healthy working environment for optimal productivity.

Sources: http://www.health.state.mn.us/divs/eh/indoorair/co2/

http://www.engineeringtoolbox.com/co2-comfort-level-d_1024.html

Driving Safety Tips for Wintery Conditions

Cold weather is upon us, and daily driving routines can become very dangerous if the proper precautions and safety measures are not followed. Be prepared by keeping your car maintenance up to date, especially in the colder months, to keep it running as best as it can. During winter, it is best to keep the gas tank at least half full at all times to avoid gas line freeze up. Make sure you also have a fully stocked emergency kit in the vehicle, equipped with items such as first aid supplies, thermal blankets, flashlight, and jumper cables, which can be crucial in the event of a car breakdown. IIS offers a variety of these types of kits already stocked with necessary equipment.

When the time comes for driving in the snow, be sure to accelerate and decelerate slowly, while keeping overall speed low. If you can, don’t come to a complete stop, such as at traffic lights. It’s easier for a car in snow to keep moving from a slow roll than to start moving again from a dead stop. In terms of driving on hills, try to keep a steady speed all the way going up, and don’t stop in the middle or risk sliding back down or getting stuck. When going down a hill, ride the brakes to move as slowly as possible.

Above all else, if you don’t need to leave the house and drive during a snowstorm, don’t. Staying off snowy roads is always safer than trying to maneuver them.

Source: http://exchange.aaa.com/safety/roadway-safety/winter-driving-tips/