When it’s summertime in Texas, it’s hot … that’s just a matter of living along the Gulf Coast. But in the past week or so, record-setting temperatures have taken “hot” and made it even more dangerous, especially for those who make a living outside.
There are steps you can take to protect yourself and your employees from the dangers of excessive heat and humidity. One of those is utilizing a cooling trailer, like the ones available at 2S Elite Rentals, to provide a place for an occasional break from the heat.
There are other things that can be done as preventative measures:
Increase water consumption. Drink lots of liquids even before getting thirsty, but avoid those with caffeine, alcohol or large amounts of sugar because these can actually result in the loss of body fluid.
Conduct outdoor work or exercise in the early morning or evening when it is cooler. Outdoor workers should drink plenty of water or electrolyte-replacement beverages and take frequent breaks in the shade or in an air-conditioned facility. Those unaccustomed to working or exercising in a hot environment need to start slowly and gradually increase heat exposure over several weeks.
Wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing that permits the evaporation of perspiration.
A wide-brimmed hat helps prevent sunburn as well as heat-related illness. Sunscreen also protects from the sun’s harmful rays and reduces the risk of sunburn.
Stay alert to heat advisories. The National Weather Service declares a Heat Emergency when the heat index, a computation of the air temperature and humidity, reaches 108 degrees on two or more consecutive days. A heat index of 108 is a potential health threat for all people and is particularly dangerous for high-risk groups.
Here are some things that can help at home as well:
If the house is not air-conditioned, seek accommodations in air-conditioned facilities during the heat of the day: multi-service centers, malls, movie theaters, libraries, etc.
Check on the elderly. Take the initiative to visit seniors to look for signs of heat related illnesses. It takes the elderly nearly twice the time of younger people to return to core body temperature after exposure to extreme temperatures. A phone call to the frail elderly is not sufficient to determine physical condition.
Take frequent cool baths or showers if your home is not air-conditioned.
Electric fans should only be used in conjunction with an air conditioner. A fan can’t change the temperature of a room; it can only accelerate air movement, and will accelerate the body’s overheating.
Do not leave children, senior citizens or pets unattended in a vehicle.
It’s important to note that during an excessive heat advisory, utility companies are prohibited from disconnecting service due to lack of payment.
2s Rolloff Service strives to be the customer’s first choice in the equipment rental industry. From dumpsters to construction equipment, we aim to be a turnkey solution to supply job sites with rolloff equipment. Not only do we offer a vast fleet, but we pair it all with a friendly and knowledgeable staff. Our employees are our greatest asset, and our expertise and service are what truly distinguish us from the competition.
We pride ourselves on investing in our workforce and offer competitive benefits, as well as extensive on-the-job training for all eligible employees.
As we grow along the Gulf Coast, we are constantly looking for talented individuals to support our growth. If you are interested in pursuing a rewarding career, we invite you to review our opportunities!
Job Description: TX/LA Driver
Are you seeking an empowering workplace that allows you to:
Develop a career track
Leverage your current skills while developing new skills
Work with an incredible team of people
As a TX/LA Driver you will deliver and recover a variety of equipment, tools and supplies to and from the customer worksite. This role will generally drive a Class A truck hauling equipment on on a flatbed (dovetail) or RGN (lowboy) trailer in a variety of conditions, including urban, suburban, rural settings. Ability to drive safely in tight settings such as construction zones is required.
Education or experience for success:
Education High School Diploma or equivalent preferred
Valid Driver’s license with TX License and acceptable driver’s record
Knowledge/Skills/Abilities needed:
Prior training and/or experience with similar commercial equipment preferred
Ability to troubleshoot and make minor repairs to equipment and vehicle at job sites
Customer service attitude
The physical demands of this role require bending, squatting, crouching, reaching, lifting 50 pounds or more, and working indoors/outdoors when required by the job. The above description is not a complete listing of all miscellaneous, incidental or similar duties which may be required from day to day. Reasonable accommodations may be made to comply with applicable laws. 2s Rolloff Service is an Equal Opportunity Employer — Minority/Female/Disabled/Veteran and any other protected class.
Base Pay Range: $25.00 – $50.00
Starting rate of pay may vary based on factors including, but not limited to, position offered, location, education, training, and/or experience.
Benefits
2s Rolloff Service also provides a comprehensive benefits package for full-time employees. This package includes:
Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance
Enhanced Vacation Time based on Years of Service & 5 Paid Sick Days
Leading wages
Tuition Reimbursement
RRSP Matching
Tool and Boot Allowance
Career development and advancement
Employee Assistance Program
If a current 2s Rolloff Service employee has referred you for an employment opportunity please notify them that you are applying for this position.
When Trip Breaux saw his friend in a sheep busting rodeo competition, he knew he needed to be in the arena too. Now, two years later, Trip has already graduated to riding bulls and winning championships.
Watch a video of Trip dominating a bull at a recent rodeo!
Trip, who is 9 years old and lives in Fannett, has qualified for the 2023 World Championship Miniature Bullriding World Finals on October 2 in Mesquite. His parents are Richard and Traci Breaux.
“When he saw his friend competing, he said ‘I want to do that,’” said Richard. “He just took to it naturally. He’s really good at it.”
To advance to the World competition, Trip had to earn a spot at a qualifying event. He accomplished that at the Louisiana Series J.S. Backyard Bash. Trip typically rides in the Pee Wee Division but at Worlds, he’ll compete a level higher, in the 10-12-year-old Junior Mini Division. When he recently competed in the Junior Division at a Crockett rodeo, he finished in second place.
“It means a lot to have 2S Companies sponsor Trip,” said Richard.
June through August is the hottest part of the year, and unfortunately, in construction, you find yourselves smack dab in the middle of the heat almost hourly.
For those hiring new workers this summer, it is crucial that you take the time to not only educate them on safe practices, but that you also educate them on staying hydrated and safe from the sun during the workday.
In 2017, an 18-year-old was working with a company in Ohio and passed away on his first day of work due to what is assumed to be overheating.
Tuscarawas County Sheriff Orvis Campbell reported that the young man’s temperature was extremely hot at the time the paramedics arrived on the scene.
What may seem obvious to you, an experienced worker, may not be common knowledge to someone younger. Even if you find it trite and unnecessary to talk about sunscreen and drinking water, it could potentially save the lives of your younger employees.
Safeguarding against sunburn and skin cancer
If there’s one safety precaution that occasionally slips through the cracks at even the best of landscape companies, it’s probably sunburn. Summertime is the busiest time and when the days are longest.
Chances are, crew leaders will take care to ensure their crews have access to plenty of water and may even insist that short breaks be taken regularly to guard against heat exhaustion. Sun exposure, however, just seems to come with the territory.
According to research done by the National Cancer Society and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), there is one safety policy regarding sun exposure that typically goes out the window: appropriate clothing.
It will not be the most popular option for those who know they are about to head out into the blazing heat, but requiring your employees to wear long-sleeve shirts and long pants will help keep them safe from burning and potential skin cancer.
Another must for those perpetually working outdoors is the application of sunscreen, preferably brands that are water-resistant with an SPF of at least 15. Be sure to stress the importance of reapplying every two hours if workers are perspiring heavily.
Using sunglasses while on the job can help protect eyes from the harsh UV rays, and choosing a broad-brimmed hat instead of a baseball cap will also protect ears from sunburn. Ears are a common site of skin cancer, and they are particularly susceptible to sunburn.
According to the National Council on Skin Cancer Prevention, in 2016 it was estimated that 76,380 new cases of melanoma would be diagnosed that year in the United States. On average, if a person has had more than five sunburns, the risk of becoming one of those cases can double.
Lastly, the most difficult recommendation for avoiding sunburn is to limit the amount of time in the sun your employees spend. With the summer daylight lasting longer, the temptation is to get out earlier and stay later to get more done, but don’t sacrifice the health and well-being of your employees just to make two or three extra stops.
Playing it safe
When working in the hottest parts of the day, consider rotating out workers from sunny to shaded areas to ensure they are staying hydrated and cooled off. Create mandatory water breaks and cool-down time as well to keep employees safe. Keep an ample supply of water on all trucks, and encourage employees to take breaks when they feel the heat is taking its toll.
Another option could be starting the workday earlier to avoid the hottest parts of the day. If your crew is available and your customers are on board, talk about starting the job shortly after 6 a.m. This could give you the chance to get a job done early, break for some of the hotter hours and jump back in once the heat has subsided slightly.
Educate your staff and managers on the signs of dehydration, heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Symptoms may vary from person to person, but a few warning signs of a heat stroke can include nausea, dizziness, complaints of sudden and severe fatigue and lightheadedness. If a co-worker is suffering from a heat stroke, contact 911 immediately and find some method to cool him/her down.
If available, put the person in a cool tub of water, spray them gently with a garden hose, sponge them down with cool water, cover them with cool, damp sheets or place ice packs or cool, wet towels on the neck, armpits, and groin. If he/she can drink, keep him/her hydrated with cool water. If the person is unconscious, begin CPR until medical professionals can arrive.
As the 2023 hurricane season approaches, residents along the Texas Gulf Coast are keenly aware of the potential dangers that lie ahead. Hurricane Harvey, a devastating storm that struck in 2017, serves as a somber reminder of the immense destruction and disruption these natural disasters can bring. In this article, we will explore the importance of preparing for the upcoming hurricane season, with a particular focus on the role of generators in safeguarding homes, businesses, and communities.
Reliability in the Face of Power Outages: One of the most critical aspects of hurricane preparedness is ensuring a reliable source of power. Severe storms can cause widespread power outages that may last for days or even weeks, leaving residents without access to electricity. This can have dire consequences, impacting communication, food storage, medical devices, and overall comfort.
Generators provide a lifeline during such times, offering a dependable power source to keep essential equipment running. From powering refrigerators to preserving perishable food and medicines, to running medical devices, telecommunications, and providing lighting, generators can significantly mitigate the challenges of extended power outages.
Safety and Security: In the wake of a hurricane, safety becomes paramount. Floodwaters, fallen debris, and structural damage can create hazardous conditions, making it essential to have a reliable power supply for emergency services and personal safety measures. Generators enable the operation of sump pumps, security systems, and emergency lighting, ensuring that individuals can stay safe and secure during the chaos that follows a storm.
Moreover, generators also play a crucial role in powering essential medical equipment for individuals with special needs. Patients relying on life-support systems, oxygen concentrators, or medical devices must have uninterrupted power to sustain their health and well-being. By having a backup generator, these vulnerable individuals can receive the critical care they need, even during a power outage.
Business Continuity: The hurricane season poses significant challenges for businesses along the Texas Gulf Coast. Extended power outages can result in substantial financial losses, compromised operations, and potential closures. The ability to maintain business continuity during and after a hurricane is vital for both economic stability and community recovery.
Generators provide businesses with the power necessary to sustain their operations, including refrigeration units, computer systems, communication infrastructure, and security measures. By ensuring uninterrupted power supply, businesses can continue serving their customers, preserving inventory, and even providing essential services to their communities during these challenging times.
Peace of Mind and Community Resilience: The knowledge that one is adequately prepared for the hurricane season brings a sense of peace and security. By investing in a generator and other essential supplies, residents can minimize anxiety and fear, knowing they have taken proactive measures to protect their homes and families.
Furthermore, community resilience relies on individual preparedness. When residents are well-equipped to handle power outages and other challenges, they reduce the strain on emergency services, enabling them to focus on critical tasks and aid those in immediate need. By building a resilient community that supports one another, the Texas Gulf Coast can face the hurricane season with greater strength and cohesion.
When it comes to completing large-scale construction or excavation projects, heavy equipment is often a necessary component. From excavators to bulldozers, heavy machinery can make the job easier and faster. However, purchasing heavy equipment can be a major investment that may not always make sense for your business. Renting heavy equipment, on the other hand, can offer several benefits that make it a more practical choice.
2S Elite Rentals has the equipment you need!
2S Elite Rentals offers a huge fleet of heavy equipment rentals from forklifts to generators, bulldozers and telehandlers. When you need assistance choosing the right piece of equipment, you can have full confidence in our on-staff experts in selecting the best tool for your job site.
Cost Savings One of the most significant advantages of renting heavy equipment is the cost savings it can offer. Purchasing new heavy equipment can be incredibly expensive, with some models costing hundreds of thousands of dollars. Even used equipment can still come with a hefty price tag. Renting equipment, on the other hand, allows you to use the machinery you need for a specific job without having to make a large upfront investment. You’ll only pay for the equipment when you need it, and you won’t have to worry about the ongoing maintenance and repair costs that come with owning heavy equipment.
Flexibility Another benefit of renting heavy equipment is the flexibility it provides. Depending on the project, you may need different types of equipment to get the job done. Renting allows you to choose from a range of equipment without worrying about long-term storage, maintenance, or disposal costs. If you only need a piece of equipment for a short period, renting can be a cost-effective and convenient option.
Access to the Latest Equipment Heavy equipment is constantly evolving, with manufacturers regularly introducing new features and technology to improve performance and efficiency. By renting equipment, you can take advantage of the latest models without having to invest in new equipment every time technology advances. This can give you a competitive advantage and help you complete projects more efficiently.
Reduced Downtime Equipment breakdowns can lead to significant project delays and downtime. When you own equipment, you may have to wait for repairs, which can set your project back even further. With rental equipment, you can often have a replacement piece of equipment delivered quickly to your job site, reducing downtime and helping you stay on schedule.
Lower Transportation Costs Transportation costs for heavy equipment can be expensive, especially if you need to move the equipment over long distances. When you rent equipment, the rental company will often handle transportation for you, reducing your costs and saving you time.
It is clear that renting heavy equipment can be a more practical choice than buying it for many businesses. When deciding whether to rent or buy heavy equipment, consider your budget, project timeline, and equipment needs then give the experts at 2S Elite Rentals a call at 409-842-5040.
Forklifts are a common sight in warehouses, factories, and construction sites, where they are used to lift and move heavy loads with ease. However, choosing the right forklift for a job can be a daunting task, especially for those who are not familiar with the different types of forklifts and their capabilities. 2S Elite Rentals in Beaumont, Texas offers a wide variety of lifts for various applications. Here are some of the factors to consider when choosing the correct forklift for a job.
Weight capacity: The weight capacity of a forklift is the maximum weight that it can lift and carry. It is important to choose a forklift with a weight capacity that is suitable for the loads that will be lifted. It is also important to consider the height at which the loads will be lifted, as the weight capacity of a forklift decreases as the height increases.
Lift height: The lift height is the maximum height that a forklift can lift a load. It is important to choose a forklift with a lift height that is suitable for the height of the shelves or storage racks in the facility. If the forklift is not capable of reaching the required height, it will be unable to perform the task effectively.
Operating environment: The operating environment is an important factor to consider when choosing a forklift. If the forklift will be used in a warehouse, a narrow aisle forklift may be more suitable, as it can operate in tight spaces. If the forklift will be used outdoors, a rough terrain forklift may be more appropriate, as it can handle uneven terrain and rough surfaces.
Fuel type: Forklifts are available in different fuel types, including electric, propane, diesel, and gasoline. The fuel type chosen will depend on the operating environment, as well as the cost of fuel and the availability of refueling stations. Electric forklifts are a good choice for indoor use, as they produce zero emissions and are quiet. Propane forklifts are ideal for outdoor use, as they can operate in a wide range of temperatures and are more cost-effective than diesel or gasoline forklifts.
Attachments: Forklifts can be equipped with a variety of attachments, including forks, clamps, and booms. It is important to choose a forklift with the appropriate attachment for the job. For example, a forklift equipped with a clamp attachment may be required for handling large rolls of paper, while a forklift with a boom attachment may be needed for lifting heavy machinery.
You know you need a manlift but with so many brands, models, and sizes, how do you pick the right one for the job you’re trying to complete?
From articulating boom lifts to platform scissor lifts, getting the right piece of equipment can be confusing. At 2S Elite Rentals, not only can we offer a wide variety of lifts to fit your needs, but we can help you decide which one is right for you.
When renting a lift, here are some things to consider:
What’s the Job?
The two basic lifts are the scissor lift and the boom lift.
Scissor lifts operate in the up-down position while boom lifts provide a forward reach. Articulating boom lifts also provide a bit of a turning capability in the boom which gives it the ability to reach around corners or up and over beams, roofs, etc.
Scissor lifts are popular for painting and ceiling work when the lift can get right up in the space that needs the work. The base is as big as the platform which means they fit into small spaces and don’t require as much space to maneuver – unlike boom lifts which have a bit of a neck on the body.
The Genie 60-foot articulating boom is just one of several lift offerings available at 2S Elite Rentals.
How tall do I need the aerial lift to go?
Height and range are key considerations when looking to rent a man lift. Range refers to the horizontal space that is achieved by a telescopic boom lift, specifically. It’s important to keep this in mind not only for the job itself but the space that the lift needs to enter and maneuver in.
All lifts should be able to fit through entrance ways and turn as needed – all without hitting any obstacles.
What am I lifting?
This question is important for two reasons. The first is the size of the platform.
You can’t lift anything that is bigger than the platform itself. If you expect to raise drywall or some type of light fixture, the platform must be big enough to accommodate the entire piece or material.
The second point to this question is weight. Depending on the size and reach of the machine, the max weight capacity changes. Consider the material, its weight and reach before setting your mind on a specific type of lift.
If you aren’t sure about max weight and reach capacity, the 2S Elite Rentals team is here to help answer your questions and provide direction for which man lift rental is best for your job.
Remember that Bigger isn’t Always Better
With lifts, sometimes the mindset is that going bigger is better because you can just not extend it all the way or just move the base further away. The opposite is true, actually. Having a lift that is too large for a job also means that it’s much too heavy and could be more difficult to maneuver in the space of the project. Bulkier lifts may be more likely to hit wires, beams, columns, or other obstacles.
Ending up with a lift that is too small on the other hand could mean that you push the machine past its limit. Overreaching or loading material that goes beyond the weight restriction is just asking for an accident.
It may take extra time to take proper measurements but the safety of contractors and a project is worth it.
Renting a Man Lift
Lifts are usually used for shorter periods of time with very specific projects or tasks. Large boom lifts, for example, could cost more than $50,000 to purchase. That also means that you could be stuck with one machine that doesn’t work for every project.
Renting a lift at 2S Elite Rentals gives you the ability to truly choose the best machine for the job – no matter how long or short the job is.
Still not sure which lift is best for you? Contact the 2S Elite Rentals team and speak to an expert in equipment rentals.
Mandatory evacuation orders are in effect for Jefferson County as Hurricane Laura blazes toward the region. Now is a good time to review your storm preparation plans and make any last minute updates.
|TIP| There’s still time to do some Hurricane Preparedness before Laura hits Southeast Texas and Southwest Louisiana. If you can, take the opportunity to do so right now.
Tips and Resources on Post-Hurricane Disaster Efforts
STEP ONE: HAVE THE RIGHT GEAR
Cleaning up after a disaster can mean facing a wide range of hazards, from contaminated water, to animals and insects, to splintered wood and sagging ceilings.
At a minimum, everyone who helps with clean up and repair should wear long pants, long sleeves, sturdy shoes, and work gloves. They may also need specialized equipment such as an N95 mask if dealing with mold or potential asbestos hazards. Read more at RedCross.
|TIP| Be vigilant and mindful that COVID19 is still an ever-present concern. It may impose limitations on if/when resources for aid/assistance are available after the storm.
STEP TWO: ASSESS THE DAMAGES
When it is safe to do so, walk around your property to assess the damages. Take photos and notes of any physical damage from storm debris and wind force, as well as water damage from flooding.
Once you have a clear idea of the damages, then you can work on a plan for tackling the cleanup process. Determine if you will need special equipment, such as a chainsaw or roll-off dumpster for debris.
You should also make arrangements for getting additional help or possibly finding a team of helpers for moving heavy or bulky items and objects.
|TIP| Some water facilities such as sewage may be interrupted after the storm. If you are in need of portable toilet or hand-washing stations, be sure to make arrangements in time for cleanup work to begin.
STEP THREE: GET TO WORK
Cleaning up your home can be a big job. Be sure to pace yourself and remember to take breaks when you need to. Stay hydrated. You should also prioritize which tasks to handle first based on how important they are.
|TIP| Check out CDC Hurricane Safety Tips and Resources for more information.
Be sure to open windows and doors when there has been water damage or is risk of mold. This is also an important step if you are using harsh chemicals such as bleach, which should never be used in a closed space.
Beware of electrical hazards while you work and steer clear of any power lines that have been damaged. Do not work if you smell natural gas and instead contact emergency services.
Reminders
Now that we’ve given you some handy post-storm advice, here are some important and potentially life-saving reminders about cautions during and immediately after a hurricane.
Most importantly, EVACUATE if you are able. Make it a priority.
If you can’t, remember to stay indoors during the storm and away from doors and windows. Do not go outside during a storm.
DON’T get in the water or talk on the phone, as both make you prone to lightning injury even inside your home.
Turn Around, Don’t Drown! Especially when driving. Each year, more deaths occur due to flooding than from any other thunderstorm related hazard. Read the warning signs here.
Flooding after a storm will likely persist for days. Please AVOID floodwater as it is often full of harmful debris & dangerous bacteria.
The National Hurricane Center projects that Laura is expected to produce life-threatening storm surge*, extreme winds, and flash flooding over eastern Texas and portions of Louisiana.
*Storm Surge is the rising of the sea level due to the low pressure, high winds, and high waves associated with a hurricane as it makes landfall. The storm surge can cause significant flooding and cost people their lives if they’re caught unexpected.
|TIP| You can listen for weather updates on LOCAL radio station info even on your Android or iOS devices with apps like TuneIn and Simple Radio (both are free).
Currently, PPE is being disposed of at unprecedented levels. It is becoming a significant environmental threat which everyone should pay attention to.
“There is always a need for alternative fuels or energy resources to meet our energy demands. The challenges of PPE waste management and increasing energy demand could be addressed simultaneously by the production of liquid fuel from PPE kits.”–Dr. Bhawna Yadav Lamba, co-author*
One of the inevitable side effects of this global pandemic and increased use of PPE is the TRASH from it. With more people using PPE, it’s unsurprising to learn that researchers are looking at ways to make this garbage useful again – to find it a second life.
Likely, even those of us who don’t keep up with sustainability efforts have noticed the massive return to single-use plastics and throw-away products. In an effort to keep things clean from virus spread, we’ve ended up with a lot more waste as a side effect.
This isn’t all bad, as we can talk about another time, but today we’re talking breakthroughs! We want to share the news about a recent scientific study which focuses on converting this disposed product into something we always need: fuel!
But, why does a “little” more trash even matter right now??
Well, once these plastic materials are disposed of, they end up in landfills or oceans in the environment. Since their natural degradation is difficult at regular temperatures, they need DECADES to decompose.
Recycling these polymers requires both physical and chemical methods, but they’are not widespread enough for common use. Not to mention, we have a global recycling crisis right now!
Normally, “reduce, reuse, and recycle” are the three pillars of sustainable development. Those would help to prevent the unnecessary discharge of these plastics into the environment. Unfortunately, it’s difficult and/or impossible to reduce, reuse, or recycle in a global pandemic event.
Tackling Two Problems At Once
Thankfully, there are researchers at the University of Petroleum and Energy Studies (UPES) in India who tackled this very pressing priority. They assert that billions of items of disposable PPE can be converted from its polypropylene state into liquid biofuels – which are known to be on par with standard fossil fuels.
Co-author of the study, Dr. Bhawna Yadav Lamba says this process is among the most promising and sustainable methods of recycling compared with incineration and landfill.
“Pyrolysis is the most commonly used chemical method whose benefits include the ability to produce high quantities of bio-oil which is easily biodegradable,” she states.
“Presently, the world is focusing to combat COVID-19, however, we can foresee the issues of economic crisis and ecological imbalance also”-Dr. Sapna Jain, lead author of the Biofuels article. Quoted at Phys.org.
If you want a more in-depth look at the technical aspects and science behind this process and what it all means, you can visit Popular Mechanics or SciTechDaily.
You can read even more about the study in detail here or read the original peer-reviewed scientific article by Sapna Jain, Bhawna Yadav Lamba, Sanjeev Kumar and Deepanmol Singh here through the Taylor & Francis journal Biofuels, 2020.
* – The article this blog post discusses is titled: “Strategy for repurposing of disposed PPE kits by production of biofuel: Pressing priority amidst COVID-19 pandemic”, 3 August 2020.
