Livingston Reporting - page 213

Purchasing Large Scaled Medical Equipment

One of the biggest obstacles faced in running a medical facility is the expense of purchasing equipment and supplies.  It is a struggle to stay within the allotted budget while continuing to offer the highest quality treatment to patients.   The ability to scale back on expenses in the medical field is far more difficult than in many other areas of business.  To save money while continuing to provide top notch care, medical facilities must plan ahead and make smart business purchasing decisions.

One way facilities work to achieve this is to purchase refurbished medical equipment instead of purchasing brand new.  There are a number of advantages involved in purchasing refurbished medical equipment including: cost, quality, environmental, service, and reliability.

Cost

The most obvious benefit of buying refurbished medical equipment is the cost advantage.  Medical facilities can cut a lot of excess out of their allotment for medical equipment by purchasing equipment and supplies that have been refurbished.  Inpatient care is one of the highest costs in the industry with most of the expense coming from basic supplies and equipment use.

Quality

When the choice is made to purchase an item that is refurbished from a reputable medical equipment supplier, you can rest assured that the piece has been thoroughly tested.  In order to be sold, refurbished equipment must go through a stringent examination to test that it is both safe and reliable.

Environmental 

Think of refurbishing in the same way that you think about recycling.  It is all about using something again over buying something new in order to prevent waste. Purchasing refurbished medical equipment like linear accelerators and ct scanners help in reducing the carbon footprint that that the medical industry is leaving.  Finding eco-friendly medical supplies and equipment can often be difficult.  Buying refurbished medical equipment is a safe manner in which to bring eco-friendliness to your medical practice.

Service

There are a number of benefits to working with a refurbished medical equipment supplier.  One of the main perks is the detailed customer service you will receive.  With knowledgeable support people at the helm you can rest assured that all of your needs will be taken care of.

Reliability

There are a variety of reasons to buy a product that has been on the market.  When buying new you are buying a product that has yet to stand the test of time.  With a refurbished model, the equipment has had time to be tested and all of the kinks worked out.  Think about it, if the model is unsafe for any reason it will be off the market by the time you are searching for a refurbished model.

Acceletronics delivers the best equipment performance and service reliability from Linear Accelerators and CT Scanners across all major brands and models.  Our qualified oncology equipment specialists provide a quality customer experience across the USA with timely field maintenance.  We sell, repair, refurbish, move and finance oncology medical systems check out more at http://www.acceletronics.com.

Designing Product Labels When Space Is Limited

In label design space is limited.  It is important that designers deliver their message in a clear and concise manner within the limited space available on the label.  This needs to occur while making sure that key elements are not left out.  When designing a label, the graphic designer must work in conjunction with the manufacturer and design team to create something visually appealing and effective at marketing the product.

The product label holds a variety of information that is important to consumers.  Some key information that is needed on the label includes:

  • The product/brand name
  • A product logo if it is applicable
  • The size, quantity or weight of the product
  • A description of the product
  • Product tag line
  • Ingredient lists
  • Direction on using the product
  • Item barcode

Two of these items, the product story and directions tend to be longer and may need to be edited to avoid becoming too wordy.  If you want to have more product information available to consumers put it online or on the outside of the packages case.

With custom product labeling it is important that it is easily read.  Designers need to make sure that the label is clearly legible.  The font size and color are crucial elements.  For really important information designers should strive to use font that is ten points or larger.  Text that is not crucial should be no less than six points.  The color of the font is also significant.  It should contrast with the background color.   A bright font is often good because it is thought to entice people into making a purchase.  The color font that is used may also depend on the product and its existing aesthetic appeal.

In custom product labeling it is best to use a solid color for the background.  A pattern or photo when used for the background really affects the readability of the label.  Both options, a pattern or a photo, are not conducive to the readability and presentation of text.   It is important to have blank space, otherwise known as white space within your label.  This is favorable as it separates information and creates a visual distinction within the label as well.  White space within a label is an understated minimalist way to state what needs to be stated without being overwhelming.  It offers a calm and open feel to the label design.

At Anchor Printing, we take pride in offering our clients cut & stack labeling, pressure sensitive labels, roll-fed labeling, shrink sleeves as well as flexible packaging options. Contact us today at http://anchorprinting.com for all of your product label design, printing and packaging needs.

Steps To Take When Installing Aluminum Fencing

There are many decisions to make when deciding on what type of fence you would like to install at your home.  A fence’s main purpose is to add security but won’t cost a fortune for your improvement budget. One of those many choices is an aluminum fence which can offer many styles and colors that can fit your unique vision of a design. Once deciding on an aluminum fence, learn some pointers on the best tips to use in order to have a successful fencing install.

Talk To Local Zoning Officials

No matter where you are located, each area has its own type of fencing that is permitted. Make sure to check that you are in the boundaries for height restrictions and if there are any boundary regulations. Depending on the location, some locations require you to offset the fence post away from the property line by a certain distance but others can allow the post on the property line. If you are uncertain where your property line exists, you can have a survey done for you to help understand where the line exists. Also, another set of information to verify not only with local zoning is with your Homeowner’s Association (HOA). Some of them may have very strict regulations as to what type or color of fence is installed on your property.

Call Miss Dig For Underground Utilities

Before starting your project it is of high importance to always call “Miss Utility” before you begin digging. Many do- it-yourselfers do not remember to take this precaution and end up in trouble during the install. In many cases, one third of a fence height has to be dug underground. With an aluminum fence, gate posts should be at least 30 inches below ground. There are many hazards beneath the ground that you do not want to take the chance of hitting a pipe or wire. To save yourself from one large headache, please take the time to make one quick phone call that could save you a lot of stress in the long run.

Keep In Mind The Fence Rating

There are three types of ratings for aluminum fences that many are not aware of. It is important to decide between the strength of residential, commercial, or industrial. In special cases, there has even been ‘Heavy Industrial’ design created. If you would like to learn more about these three ratings you can view Alumni-Guard’s website, which provides great information about the Cads and Specs for each rating separately.  The consumer must think hard about what the purpose of this fence will be used for, a residential fence for example may not be the best option if the fence will be heavily “used” by a person’s animals and kids.

Layout The Fence Perimeter

Before beginning to build the actual fence, make sure to lay out your plan for the fence physically on the ground so that you can see what the fence will look like when completed. We recommend using inexpensive string and use stakes for the corners to remember where you will have to dig holes at for posts of the fence. Many of people forget to do this step and will come across larger obstacles than they had imagined because someone forgot for example about a big rock or tree that is in the way of where fence wanted to be installed.

Mark Off Pole Locations

It is very important to designate a place for each of the fence posts. The simplest way of doing this would be to place a “X” using paint but be sure to measure your placement and spacing correctly. Many people make the mistake of just eye-balling pole locations and this error will cause further problems including further expenses and time when it’s time to actually install the fence. When using the paint mark, it will need to show the actual center of where the fence post will be so it is helpful to know the post measurements before placing the paint mark on ground.  Being cautious to not mix and match the posts because Aluminum fence posts are pre-punched to be a certain type such as corner, in-line or end posts for the gate.

Start With The Gate

The first thing to do in the project is the gate posts. When building wood fences, you have the ability to make alterations during the installation but because when installing aluminum fences, the posts are pre-punched and the rails fit tightly together. By starting with the gate posts it will help eliminate problems with measuring or strange entry locations. Also when installing an aluminum fence the gate posts need to be dug deeper than a different type of fence post because the posts have quite a bit of weight attached to the post compared to other fences. If making the mistake of digging the hole for the post to shallow, the process and maintenance in years to come will have to be repeated frequently so it is best to do it right the first time and dig the hole appropriately in depth. A suggestion from aluminum fence specialist is to dig a depth of 30″ for gates over 96″. With smaller gates you may only have to dig a depth of 24″.

Concrete and Aluminum Fence

Aluminum fences can be mounted to concrete however; there are things to remember when working with concrete. First, your fence posts need to be anchored properly because normal wear and tear on daily basis could lead the fence to weaken and sag overtime. To install aluminum fence to a concrete surface the simplest way is to use a floor flange for each post. A person can bolt down into the concrete, add the post and then finish securing it. Secondly, keep in mind to allow the concrete to dry completely before ongoing your installation. It is key to be patient when installing an aluminum fence, rushing the process will only make things worse. It may take up to three days for the concrete to dry completely but that is much less time than it will take to redo sections of the fence or possibly even having to redo the whole thing!

If you follow these simple seven steps, your installation should hopefully go fairly smooth.

 iFenceUSA offers the widest variety of maintenance-free, no-rust aluminum fences and gates in the industry! Whether you are a pool contractor, a building contractor, an architect, a landscaping professional, or a “do-it-yourself” homeowner looking for exceptional value and installation advice, you’ll benefit by buying wholesale aluminum fences shipped factory-direct to your home or business anywhere in America from www.iFenceUSA.com!

Crucial Steps Involved In Aluminum Fence Installation

In our last installment on aluminum fencing we began to discuss crucial steps to take before plunging into the installation process.  We previously discussed why it is important, even ordering a new fence, to find out regulations placed on fencing by your local government and HOA.  This will prevent you from ordering a material, height or color fencing that doesn’t meet the regulations set forth.  Verifying underground utilities and choosing the correct grade of fence for your installation are both other suggestions that were made to ensure success.

Here are a few more pieces of advice and tips to ensure success when installing aluminum fencing.

Map Out The Perimeter Of The Fence

Before you start digging any holes map out the perimeter of the fence.  This will allow you a visual map of the perimeter of the fence.  Take time to stake off where the holes for the fence posts need to be even better prepared come time for the actual installation.  This process helps prevent odd fencing configurations.  It allows you to account for the big tree or huge rock that is in the way of the fencing before you find yourself having to make last minute changes to account for them.

Mark Off Pole Locations

As previously mentioned, it can save a ton of time if you stake off the location of the fence posts prior to installing your aluminum fence.  During this process, before digging any holes, you can measure the space between the poles a number of times to ensure accuracy.  There isn’t room for error when measuring out the location of aluminum fencing posts simply because the posts come pre-punched and the fence panels come in specific, pre-assembled sizes.

Begin Installation With The Gate Posts

When installing an aluminum fence it is important to begin the installation with the gate posts.  The gate posts are pre-drilled as are the fence posts and the rails are meant to fit sung.  The margin for error in this process is small.  It is crucial to measure and then re-measure to guarantee accuracy.  Remember that the gate posts must also be dug further down into the ground then regular fence posts.

When installing an aluminum fence, patience is needed.  Don’t try to cut corners or rush through the installation process.  If you use concrete when setting the posts it is crucial that it has time to thoroughly dry.  This will help prevent any give the fence may have as it settles.  Too much give will impact the performance of the fence.  The installation of your aluminum fence is sure to be successful if you follow the advice above.

iFenceUSA offers the widest variety of maintenance-free, no-rust aluminum fences and gates in the industry! Whether you are a pool contractor, a building contractor, an architect, a landscaping professional, or a “do-it-yourself” homeowner looking for exceptional value and installation advice, you’ll benefit by buying wholesale aluminum fences shipped factory-direct to your home or business anywhere in America from www.iFenceUSA.com!

Enhancing Your Landscape With Aluminum Fencing

Homeowners are always looking for a way to improve their homes while adding value and security.  Installing an attractive, durable aluminum fence is just one home improvement method in which both can be achieved.  Without breaking the homeowner’s budget aluminum fencing can be installed to enhance the visual appeal of the landscape, increase safety and increase the market value of the home.

There are numerous aluminum fencing styles, colors and enhanced features to choose from.  This allows homeowners the ability to find the perfect combination for their home and landscape.  It is important to fully understand the scope of any home improvement project before you begin.  In order to ensure your success when installing aluminum fencing it is crucial to consider the following tips.

Check Local Government and HOA Zoning Laws

The requirements for aluminum fence installation can vary a great deal from one local municipality to another.  It is crucial that the requirements limiting your installation are accounted for before installation.  From materials to boundary requirements understand the limitations you are up against even before placing an order for fencing.  Check into requirements that your HOA has in place considering the material, height, color and boundary placement of aluminum fencing as well.

 Verify Underground Utilities

This is an important step that many times is overlooked.  It is crucial that you call “Miss Dig” before you start digging.  The last thing that a homeowner needs is the hassle that comes along with breaking an underground utility.  Most posts need to have at least one third of their height underground while gate posts should a minimum of thirty inches deep.  With these depths you can see how it would be easy to nic a utility line.  It is also important not to place the fence over a utility line in case underground repairs need to be made at a later date.

Choose An Appropriate Grade of Fencing 

Many consumers are unaware that aluminum fencing comes in a variety of grades.  The location and use of the fence will allow you to determine the grade of fencing you should choose.  For instance, to enclose a backyard residential grade fencing is a reasonable choice.  If you live in an area that incurs a lot of windy weather you may consider the next step up to commercial fencing.  For heavy duty use there is an industrial grade option.  For use around commercial and residential pools there is also a pool grade aluminum fencing that can be installed and meets the standards set forth by the B.O.C.A., Business Officials and Codes.

In our next blog post we will continue the discussion on aluminum fencing and mistakes to avoid in order guaranteeing success during the installation process.

iFenceUSA offers the widest variety of maintenance-free, no-rust aluminum fences and gates in the industry! Whether you are a pool contractor, a building contractor, an architect, a landscaping professional, or a “do-it-yourself” homeowner looking for exceptional value and installation advice, you’ll benefit by buying wholesale aluminum fences shipped factory-direct to your home or business anywhere in America from www.iFenceUSA.com!

Advantages Found With Shrink Sleeve Labeling

There is nothing more important to a products success then providing consumers with a quality and proper marketing.  It’s reasonable, in fact, to suggest that a quality product is even less important than superior marketing.  Without effective marketing consumers are less likely to purchase a product in the first place; the quality of the product doesn’t matter if consumers aren’t buying it.

Knowing that marketing is such a crucial element in your products success is only half the battle; a successful plan of action is the other.  A good place to begin any successful marketing campaign is with your products label.  Attention-grabbing designs, intense colors, and simple slogans used on a products package and labeling works really well in marketing.  A solid product label is marketing that your consumer takes home with them.

Companies have an advantage over their competition when they use labeling to present their product in a way that is compatible with their marketing plan.  The product label is a significant tool to help attract customers and identify brands.  One option that is transforming the product label design and manufacturing industry is shrink sleeves.  They offer a number of benefits over other options in labeling.

One of the leading advantages of shrink sleeve labeling comes from its flexibility.  Shrink sleeves can be used on any container no matter what the size or shape.  Labeling your product with shrink sleeves increase the products shelf appeal by making it stand out over the competition.  This being one of the prime reasons that shrink sleeve labeling has become so popular.

Within the food, beverage and pharmaceutical industries shrink sleeves are used more than any other type of labeling.  This is because shrink sleeves allow consumers to easily recognize if a product has been tampered with.  If a product is noticeably tampered with the consumer can reject the product and report a complaint to the related authorities.

Additional Benefits of Using Shrink Sleeve Labeling

  • Containers used in packaging can be thinner than ever before because of the added strength shrink sleeves offer. With a decrease in the needed wall thickness less glass or plastic is needed therefore decreasing the cost of packaging.
  • Containers that are colored are no longer needed because of the ability to wrap the entire container, no matter what shape or size, in a label that is colored.
  • Shrink sleeves are flexible and are manufactured to cover anything from the cap to the entire body of a products container.
  • Shrink sleeves offer label designers a three hundred and sixty degree space to market the product. This is advantageous to brand owners because it offers additional space to grab consumers attention and increase the products overall appeal.

At Anchor Printing, we take pride in offering our clients cut & stack labeling, pressure sensitive labels, roll-fed labeling, shrink sleeves as well as flexible packaging options. Contact us today at http://anchorprinting.com for all of your product label design, printing and packaging needs.

Follow These Tips When Hiring A Professional Contractor

There are times when hiring a contractor to take on home renovations rather than doing it yourself.  If this is the case it is important to choose the right contractor to work with.  A contractor that is subpar can lead to a number of problems down the road.  The guidelines below are helpful when looking to hire a professional contractor to do work on your home.

  • First things first, it is important to always trust your gut instincts when hiring people that will be working in close contact with your family. A contractor that is hired to do a renovation project will be working in your home for weeks or possibly months depending on the size of the job.  If you don’t feel comfortable around the contractor that is reason enough not to hire them.
  • Check to make sure that the contractor is licensed, bonded and insured. These accolades give credibility to the contractor’s knowledge and abilities to provide home renovation services.  If a contractor is not insured the liability resides on you as the homeowner.  If they or someone they employ is hurt while working on your homes project then the liability falls to you, the homeowner.
  • Contractors are known to specialize in the services they provide. While some contractors are jacks of all trades like a handyman there are some that offer special talents in kitchen, bathroom or basement design as a specialty.  If your renovation is of a specific nature seek to find a contractor that specializes in the renovation you are seeking.
  • Before any work is performed be sure to have a contract in place. A contract is between the homeowner and contractor to specify what work is to be done, what materials are to be used, a time frame and a detailed list of costs involved.  Most contracts on projects of any length with break down the costs that are associated with each stage of the project and go into further detail concerning expectations.
  • When hiring a contractor it is important to understand the scope at which they will be providing services verse members of their crew. If they will be hiring out individual contractors to work on plumbing or electrical it is important that they note that upfront.
  • Any contractor that you employ should be willing to work within a reasonable set of guidelines put in place. For instance, it is reasonable to state that you desire work to be performed within a specified time frame during the day.  If you only want a contractor to perform services from 9:30 to 4:00 it is reasonable to expect that to be obliged.  Note this may cost you extra because of the additional length of time to complete the project but is well within reasonable guidelines.
  • Define what responsibilities fall on you as the homeowner verse what is expected out of the contractor. Who is in charge of removing obstructions that may hinder work that needs to be done such as furniture or fencing?  This should be in writing to ensure that each party knows their responsibilities upfront.

Hiring a contractor to do renovations around your home is not any easy task and should not be done in haste.  It is true that you get out the effort you put into things.  Take time to find a local contractor with a proven track record to complete renovations around your home.

The Home Doctor, based in Livingston County including Brighton and Howell Michigan, offers a variety of home renovations to clients ranging from bathroom remodeling to age in place home modifications.  Contact http://glenmillerthehomedoctor.com/ today all of your home renovating needs.

Resurfacing Your Gunite Swimming Pool

Residential pool owners don’t have any hard pressed rules to follow when it comes to how often they should look into having their pools plaster redone.  In commercial pool settings the general consensus is that the plaster needs to be redone every ten years.  Residential gunite pool owners need to be more conscience of the signs that their pool is in need of new plaster as the plaster is what helps to ensure the structural soundness of the pool itself.  Below are some signs residential pool owners need to keep an eye out for when it comes to redoing the pools plaster.

Staining

One of the most common complaints that homeowners have when it comes to their pools is that the plaster has visible stains.  No matter how meticulous a homeowner is when it comes to keeping the chemicals in the pools water balanced over time the plaster will show some staining.  Stains ruin the overall aesthetics of the pool.  If it has been a while since the pool has been plastered staining could mean it is time to consider looking into new plaster.  However, if stains are appearing only a few years after fresh plaster was installed then it is time to address the issue of where the staining is coming from.

Gunite Peeking Through

The structural shape of many pools is created from gunite which is a strong concrete type substance that provides the basin of the pool.  Plaster is then installed over the gunite to provide a waterproof protective barrier and visual appeal.  If the pools owners start to visually see bits of the gunite peeking through the plaster that is a sure sign that the pool is ready to have its plaster redone.

Swimming Becomes Awkward

Sometimes the change in the pools plaster may not be visible.  If you notice that your feet are getting scratched or the surface feels rough to the touch it may be time to think about new plaster.  Another visual sign is when the pool surface starts to snag on bathing suits.  Rough plaster surfaces may be noticeable because of dirt deposits, cracking or patchy spotting.  If this is noticeable the pool should be freshly plastered.

Depending on the pool plastering company plastering a pool can cost anywhere between three and five dollars per foot.    With an average backyard pool being around one thousand eighty eight square feet it is safe to assume new plaster  will cost somewhere around four thousand five hundred dollars.

Pound Pool Plastering repairs commercial and residential gunite swimming pools including coping, tile and plaster repairs. For more information or to request a quote, visit us at http://www.pound-pool-plastering.com/.

Automatic Gate Installation

Many homeowners choose to install fencing.  It may be to add security, contain pets or children or to add to the aesthetics of the homes landscape.  For whatever reason you are thinking of installing a fence it is important to think about gates, especially driveway gates to add the final touch.  With some additional planning, homeowners can install a fence and driveway gate minimal concerns.

There are a few things to keep in mind as you plan the installation of the fence and electronic entry gate.  When installing the fence around the perimeter of the landscape takes into consideration the distance the gate will be down the driveway.  The gate needs to be in a location that allows you room to come and go without interrupting the flow of traffic.

Consider the space that you desire on either side of the gate as well.  When choosing a style of gate you will have two options: gates that slide open and gates that swing open.   Are you interested in having space inside of the gate to allow for more than one vehicle to park?  Homeowners need to consider the layout of the landscape as well as obstructions when placing entry driveway gates to ensure that the gate will open properly upon installation.

If you are choosing to install a swing gate it is important to plan which direction the gate will open.   Will it open into the property or outwards towards the road?  To determine this it is important to take a look at the driveway itself.  Does the driveway slope?  When installing an electronic driveway gate it is important to give a great deal of consideration to the manner in which it will open to avoid complicated situations further on down the road.

If you know you are planning on installing both a gate and a perimeter fence plan on installing the gate first and then proceed with the fencing.  The gate should center over the driveway.  Set the posts first before proceeding any further with the installation project.  Be sure to install the posts taking into consideration the amount of clearance needed for the bottom of the fence.  Be sure the area is level and that the area where the gate hangs is flat.  It is also crucial to dig the post holes and fill them with concrete to about two inches under ground level.  The concrete needs to be thoroughly dry before attempting to hang the gate.

The task of installing an electronic driveway gate is not for everyone.  If you find you are in over your head with a project of this size seek out a local, reputable driveway gate installation company.

SAC Fence Michigan offers a variety of electronic driveway gates, access control entry systems and fence options for homeowners to choose from.  You will find a variety of fencing options online at http://www.sacfencemi.com/.

Simple Steps To Encourage Estate Planning

Today is a great day to stop procrastinating and to start thinking in terms of future plans for your estate.  Tomorrow is not a guarantee thus making an estate planning necessary sooner than later.   Without a plan in place your estate is left to be decided in probate.  In this article we will give you some simple steps to encourage you to start planning your estate today.

  • Give yourself a time limit: If you don’t have a deadline in place there will always be an excuse on why today isn’t that day.  Plan to have your estate plan done by your next birthday, anniversary or large family gathering.
  • Research: It is important to hire an attorney to help in your estate planning process. This does not mean that you shouldn’t look into different aspects of estate planning prior to meeting with them.  Many attorneys’ also offer free seminars.  This allows you as a consumer to become educated on aspects of estate planning while meeting with local attorneys.
  • Get your financial house in order: This is a step that can be done even before you meet with an estate planning attorney.  Create a spreadsheet with all of your current assets, their current market values, debts and resulting net value.  Put important papers such as account statements in a folder to take with you when you meet with the attorney.  All assets should be accounted for along with debts.
  • Create a list of individuals you want to gift to: Create a list of individuals with whom you would like to inherit a piece of your estate.  In your estate plan you will need to include their full name, date of birth, address and relation.  In this list include charities, educational or religious organizations.    You are then able to control how and when you want the inheritance to be received.  Some people choose to dole out their estate all at once while others choose a systematic approach to gift funds on a schedule.
  • Consider an executor: This person needs to be someone you trust who will abide by your wishes.  If you have children who are under the age of eighteen you will want to choose a guardian.  The executor will work with the chosen guardian until they have reached the age in which you wish them to have control over their own inheritance.
  • Healthcare advocate: When you are making an estate plan another crucial aspect is to assign a healthcare advocate.  This individual will be in charge of your healthcare decisions should you become unable to make them for yourself.  This person should know your desires regarding assisted living.  Clearly state your desires to this individual in order to avoid confusion during an already stressful moment in time.
  • Meet with a local attorney specializing in estate planning: This is a vital step in estate planning.  A lawyer that specializes in estate plans can correctly draft the documents to read as you desire.  With their assistance, your desires will clearly be stated and loved ones will not be able to questions your intentions.  An estate planning attorney creates documents to allow your estate plan to work as you wish.

The Law Office of Sean J. Nichols is dedicated to assisting clients throughout legal issues that come with aging including: elder law, estate planning, probate law and more.  Check out the Law Office of Sean J. Nichols at http://www.seanjnichols.com to contact an estate attorney today.