Did you know that only about 42 percent of the time on a job site is productive work? The rest of that time is waste. Identifying these areas of waste and reducing labor by just 5 percent has the ability to double a contractor’s profitability.
Read MoreWhat do we mean by end-points, and why do they matter? We’re talking about end-point applications, and they’re important when it comes to choosing the right UTP cabling solution for the right end-point application. While there are a lot of variables that come into play, relatively speaking, variables like transmission speeds may be among what’s least important.
Read MoreThe construction industry has seen an increase of women on the job site. Year after year, this number continues to grow – but as a primarily male-dominated industry, there are still many things to take into consideration for women.
Read MoreFrom tornadoes and hurricanes to floods, earthquakes, and ice storms, Mother Nature has many ways of threatening your business. When disaster strikes, it’s important to have a predetermined plan in place to minimize downtime, injury, and loss of valuable information. To help you prepare before a catastrophe strikes, consider a three-pronged approach to your disaster plan.
Read MoreFor school-aged children, a classroom rich in digital experiences is a must to ensure that today’s students are ready for tomorrow’s high-tech world. According to a 2017 report from EducationSuperHighway, 88 percent of classrooms had Wi-Fi access, up from just 25 percent in 2013.
Read MoreKeeping children safe in schools is top of mind in today’s world. Reports from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) show 81 percent of schools use surveillance cameras for safety and security reasons, understandably so.
Read MoreThere’s nothing more important than saving lives and improving people’s health. That’s why healthcare facilities require the most advanced connectivity solutions available.
Read MoreIn today’s retail climate, hardly a day goes by without news of another legacy-brand retailer announcing store closings or financial restructuring. In fact, nearly 7,000 store closing announcements occurred in 2017, setting a new record. With the public’s embrace of online shopping, this trend will likely continue and perhaps accelerate.
Read MoreIf you’ve ever been to a large sporting event, convention or rally, you know all too well how slow the Wi-Fi signal can be when many in the crowd attempt to tweet or upload to Instagram at the same time.
Read MoreBeyond traditional security and surveillance applications, video cameras in manufacturing and assembly environments are tools used to improve personnel management, maintain safety, reduce liability and optimize efficiency. Production and operations managers looking to reduce costs or tighten timelines can deploy cameras in their factory or plant.
Read MoreAlthough the modern mining industry has always been well regulated in terms of safety, what has been evident is the increased tolerance and acceptability of sub-standard and hazardous lighting systems being used in underground mining.
Read MoreA plant turnaround, or shutdown, is a scheduled stoppage of all or part of a plant’s operations. At one point or another, every facility will experience a turnaround for reasons ranging from maintenance, to repair or replacement of capital equipment, safety upgrades, lighting and energy upgrades or even regulatory compliance.
Read MoreWorking with high voltage power systems carries many hazards and inherent risks. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the electrical fatality rate in the mining industry is approximately 8 to 12 times higher than the rate of other U.S. industries.
Read MoreArticle originally published Sept 20, 2016, and updated for accuracy and relevance. There are a lot of variables when it comes to a student’s success in college. Good study habits, passionate teachers, and valuable campus resources all contribute to a positive college experience. But one aspect of campus life that touches students’ lives every day is often overlooked. Believe it or not, a big determinant of campus success is lighting.
Read MoreAt one point or another, we’ve all had the unfortunate experience of someone running the hot water tap during our shower. Imagine that same running shower competing with three or four toilets, sinks, washing machines and spigots. That is essentially what we put our networks through today — whenever demand exceeds supply, someone gets left in the cold.
Read More2017 marked the ten year anniversary of the ratification of the Category 6A standard. At the time of its introduction, the industry hailed Category 6A cable as the future-proof standard for supporting 10GBase-T. However Category 6A has only taken off within the last few years, growing 20%+ annually. There are many reasons adoption took so long.
Read MoreWhen you are approached with an idea for an automation project presenting challenges too great for your business to tackle with internal resources alone, how do you implement your plan in a way that successfully grows your business? Whether the challenges lie in lack of budget, internal expertise or both, a partnership with an automation systems integrator creates an opportunity for you to successfully grow your business.
Read MoreIn October 2016, the Department of Defense (DoD) issued the DFARS 252.204-7012 Safeguarding Covered Defense Information and Cyber Incident Reporting clause. These regulations required prime contractors and their suppliers to provide adequate security on all covered contractor information systems.
Read MoreArticle originally published April 20, 2017, and updated for accuracy and relevance. For every mining professional, the U.S. Department of Labor’s Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) is a frequently discussed topic. This organization regulates the mining industry to create safer mines through safety and health rules.
Read MoreEvery three years, the National Electric Code (NEC) is updated, and as a result industry standards for the installation of electrical wiring and equipment are revised. The full NEC text spans approximately 1,000 pages, broken down into several chapters and annexes, and includes safety information that’s relevant to all industrial audiences.
Read MoreThe marketplace for physical security solutions is hyper-competitive and isn’t going to change anytime soon. Security Integrators charged with finding products like cameras, video management software, NVRs, cabling, racks and cabinets, etc. are under great pressure to boost profits for every job. If you are like most integrators sources for your security product supply chain range from distributors to manufacturers, online and in some cases even big-box retailers.
Read MoreOn average, lighting accounts for 16% of a hospital’s total energy consumption and over 40% of its total electricity usage. Areas like waiting rooms and hallways are often active 24/7, making lighting a key priority for every healthcare facility. In spite of this information, a lighting upgrade can often seem like a daunting, expensive undertaking leaving decision makers perplexed. In many instances, a lighting upgrade or retrofit project can be tackled quickly, showing rapid ROI due to provincial rebates, financing opportunities and efficient lighting design. In addition to improving energy consumption, taking advantage of opportunities for improvements on a large or small scale also go a long way in improving dedicated labor time, sustainability goals, patient wellness and worker productivity.
Read MoreAs a veteran-friendly organization, WESCO makes an active effort to hire veterans. WESCO also looks for opportunities to give back to military veterans outside of our organization. Last month, the Government Team fundraised for a national charity to give back to injured veterans.
Read MoreIn September, Conney Safety took home one of three “Best in Show” prizes awarded at the National Safety Council Congress and Expo. As the only distributor to win the honor, we wanted to connect with the Conney Safety team to learn about the design and development of their winning product – the Direct Safety Karbonhex Dusk Glove. On October 19, we met with Conney Safety Brand Manager Missy Taylor, the woman behind the new glove.
Read MoreLean manufacturing is a common practice within manufacturing processes that systemically reduces waste and cost while increasing efficiency. While the primary focus of Lean is the production floor, many of the same principles extend beyond to the warehouse. For example, storage of raw materials, subcomponents and finished products is a necessary function for most businesses, however if those tasks are not properly managed they can quickly eat away at profits and compromise customer service.
Read MoreTake a moment and think about the supply bins you have within your warehouse or on a job site. You may have a technician periodically check your bin inventory levels. When items are running low, that technician goes into the warehouse or truck and replenishes the bin.
Read MoreWESCO’s industry-leading Expert Webinar Series takes you on a deep dive of the latest technologies and most relevant topics in data communications and security. Partnering with tech leaders from a variety of best-in-class manufacturers, WESCO’s BICSI-accredited Expert Webinar Series always provides fresh, innovative information that will help you stay on top of your field.
Read MoreAs one of the oldest and most heavily regulated trades in the world, mining faces challenges that are shared across many industries yet uniquely complex due to harsh, changing environments. While the cost of doing business rises due to volatile commodity prices and a shrinking talent pool, decision makers must maintain an urgent focus on safety, efficiency and social responsibility. Mining is well-positioned to leverage emerging technologies in the Internet of Things (IoT) to meet these competing demands. Mine operators can take advantage of IoT data through RFIDs, Radio over IP, and video for greater safety and efficiency.
Read MoreMining presents a variety of risks to those working underground. But one of the most dangerous risks in mining electrical work is an arc flash. An arc fault heats the air around it in an electrical enclosure, causing pressure to build and metals to vaporize, leading to an arc flash. The high temperatures destroy even the most powerful metals and the pressure forces shrapnel outwards.
Read MoreElectrical workers face many dangers on the job, but few (if any) are more devastating than an arc flash. This electrical release of energy can be hotter than the surface of the sun, producing an explosion with the force of eight sticks of dynamite. It is estimated that 10 arc flash incidents involving more than one death occur every day in the U.S.
Read MoreToday’s data centers come in all forms, from large hyperscale data centers and collocation facilities, to small datacom closets. While the needs of data center managers are varied, numerous and frequently changing, there is one constant — expanding network needs drive bandwidth and speed requirements, and a data center must be able to accommodate. High-speed optics can help meet the increasing demand.
Read MoreArticle originally published Oct. 20, 2016 and updated for relevance. As applications require more processing power, equipment generates more heat. Excessive heat can cause serious damage to equipment, shortening service life and even leading to catastrophic failure. To keep electrical equipment running at top speed, heat must be managed. Learn why enclosure cooling is necessary and how to oversee heat management according to national standards.
Read MoreFor contractors and integrators, today’s marketplace is hypercompetitive. Every day brings a challenge to get more out of less. Increasing job profitability is the way to stay truly competitive in an increasingly competitive marketplace.
Read MoreBy their very nature, mining operations are high-volume electricity users. Energy costs have a significant impact on the mining industry’s bottom line. The good news is that there is something you can do to improve your energy efficiency without sacrificing your operating efficiency. It’s all about power factor and power factor correction.
Read MoreWhile working around live wires, keeping electricity grounded should be every miner’s number one priority. It stops electricity from seeking a worker’s body as the grounding path. Grounding electrical equipment is required by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration and ASTM International to promote safe work environments while electrical work is done.
Read MoreIndustrial controls systems are facing an enemy that’s only becoming more hazardous – cyberattacks. Last year, one report found that 34 percent of industrial control systems around the globe were breached more than twice in one year. To better protect and secure federal agencies’ networks, new federal guidelines were published that standardize government cybersecurity efforts. The Unified Facility Criteria UFC 4-010-06, released by the Department of Defense (DoD) in September 2016, lists requirements for incorporating cybersecurity into control system design. It is the first complete list of standards and processes for cybersecurity design guidance specifically written for all DoD control systems.
Read MoreAs a purchasing professional, it can seem like your biggest hurdle is figuring out how to do more with less. Getting the highest quality product for the lowest possible cost can be a challenge. The primary responsibility of a purchasing department is to procure goods and services for an organization, but determining the balance between locally managed and quoted agreements and leveraging the work of other agencies is part of the role. Working together with others can often yield better results than working alone. That’s especially true in negotiating prices. Joining a network of like-minded professionals as part of a cooperative contract provides an innovative way to get better prices and save time.
Read MoreTimes are changing in manufacturing. The Internet of Things has made its way to the industry and spawned a new term in the process: Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT). Smart factories are becoming more popular (and expected) thanks to the ability to connect key technologies. Manufacturers who haven’t followed suit yet are encouraged to get moving.
Read MoreIn some industries, things are relatively stable from year to year. While manufacturing was done in much the same way for many years, emerging trends promise to change that. An original equipment manufacturer (OEM) must be resourceful and search for opportunities to stay competitive in an increasingly volatile market. While there may be challenges ahead, applying industry best practices will help any manufacturer operate at the top of their game.
Read MoreStep outside and you’ll notice that the air is brisk and people are bundled up in coats. Winter is upon us. And while that brings festive parties and holiday deals, winter means extra strains on wire and cable. Cold temperatures and atmospheric changes that come with winter weather can impact the effectiveness of some cabling materials. Prepare for cool weather and winter storms to ensure uninterrupted operation that’s reliable every day of the year.
Read MoreIn the wire and cable industry, compliance can be a challenging thing. Staying up to date on industry codes and standards is critical to ensuring worker and facility safety. The National Electrical Code (NEC) provides guidance for electrical contractors, inspectors and engineers by standardizing safe electrical practices. And as the industry changes, codes and standards need to be updated. With the 2017 NEC now available, it’s important to know what changes are coming.
Read MoreArticle originally published Feb. 4, 2016, and updated for accuracy and relevance. In the immortal words of "Game of Thrones," winter is here. Luckily for us, we don't have to worry about facing the army of the dead in 100-foot-high snow drifts. There are, however, plenty of outdoor workers who will be exposed to the harsh elements this season. As conditions start to deteriorate, brush up on these 5 essential tips for every outdoor winter worker.
Read MoreWhen it comes to a data center’s power usage effectiveness (PUE), every IT manager wants to get as close to that perfect score of 1.0 as possible. One of the biggest causes of high PUE is an inefficient data center infrastructure – namely, your physical setup. Just like in relationships, the last thing you want is a data center running hot and cold.
Read MoreFor electrical workers, there’s no danger more worrying than an arc flash. Non-contact electrical burns from an arc flash are the biggest cause of electrical injuries in the mining industry. But as dangerous as an arc flash is for mining personnel, companies face further concerns such as lost man-hours, lawsuits, fines, equipment damage and facility downtime. Reducing the risk of an arc flash doesn’t require a complete facility overhaul or redesign. By updating and refurbishing existing equipment, you can create a safer environment economically.
Read MoreIf you went to work today and sat in a gray cubicle, or were surrounded by endless white walls, chances are your mood matched the color of your environment. Bland, cold colors in the workplace could leave us feeling sullen instead of inspired. Adding vibrant paint schemes or accents is not only aesthetically pleasing, but capable of boosting mood, morale and productivity.
Read MoreIf you’re looking for a way to increase safety and efficiencies in your mining operations, using “Lean” methods will help you accomplish that. This Japanese system has swept through global industries, eliminating waste in its path. While 5S has helped mining companies accomplish Lean objectives, many have called for a greater focus on warehouse safety. With the addition of a sixth step, mining organizations are using Lean practices to increase warehouse productivity without sacrificing safety. For workers employed in harsh and hazardous environments, 6S is especially effective in securing worker safety.
Read MoreIncreasing efficiency in the data center can be a challenge, but it’s possible with facility-wide collaboration. Bring together the skills of your IT and operations personnel with an infrastructure management strategy that meets your facility’s needs well into the future. Learn how data center infrastructure management (DCIM) can benefit your facility and how to start implementing your strategy today.
Read MoreJust from looking at an open-pit mine, it’s easy to see that mining requires a significant capital investment. Between expensive equipment and a specialized workforce, players in the mining game know that keeping maintenance costs under control is paramount. This year, we’ve seen several trends emerging in the international mining industry. The first step in staying competitive is knowing these trends. The next step is having cost-effective equipment that keeps your mine running.
Read MoreIn the last year, overall patient satisfaction in the healthcare industry has dropped. In fact, patient satisfaction is the lowest it’s been in nearly ten years. Increasing patient satisfaction starts with improving facilities. Make improvements to healthcare infrastructure to increase overall satisfaction and help healthcare professionals make better decisions.
Read MoreOnly a few years ago, classrooms were bursting with blackboards, pencils and notebooks. Today, you don’t have to look far to find a plethora of monitors, computers, tablets and smartphones. Recent advances in technology have found their way into schools because of the numerous benefits to both students and teachers. Increased school performance, healthier lifestyles and added convenience can all be achieved by integrating technology with traditional classroom learning for a truly smart classroom.
Read MoreAs medical technology moves toward increasing connectivity, the door has opened to security breaches. Since 2005, over 880 million records have been stolen due to data breaches. With today’s advances in technology, patients and physicians have better access to lifesaving medicine and procedures. But keeping patients and their data safe from cyber criminals is a growing concern.
Read MoreAccording to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 48 million Americans get sick each year from foodborne illnesses. Another 128,000 are hospitalized and 3,000 are killed. These alarming statistics helped lead to the signing of the FDA Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) in 2011. The legislation, which recently went into effect, enforces proactive measures to prevent food contamination.
Read MoreIn the past few years, falling oil prices have rocked the oil and gas industry. Oil and gas companies have had to get creative to remain profitable. Investing in new technology has shown promise for improving profitability and lowering costs. Using Internet of Things (IoT) technology, companies can leverage data to increase efficiency, raise security standards, and better their bottom line.
Read MoreIn today’s global environment, manufacturers are fighting to stay ahead of the competition. New technology is giving some manufacturers an upper hand. Industrial automation and smart machines are increasing productivity, cutting costs, and creating more agile supply chains for manufacturers in many industries.
Read MoreMany of us may feel well-versed on the Internet of Things (IoT) by now. We’ve experienced an avalanche of information about this technology in recent years, including how it’s going to change all of our lives. But regardless of what we already know, the IoT grows more complex every day. Its advancing capabilities are changing the business world in both big ways and small.
Read MoreWhen working in harsh and hazardous areas, ensuring worker safety requires constant attention. In refineries, chemical plants, and production areas, operating conditions are a constant challenge. Changing a single lamp can be expensive and possibly even dangerous. Safe, efficient and cost-effective lighting is paramount in these environments.
Read MorePower is an obvious essential for healthcare facilities. Medical staff rely on it to ensure optimal patient care, and patients depend on it for comfort and recovery. Medical-grade power strips are an effective way for healthcare facilities to achieve reliable power that complies with industry standards.
Read MoreIt’s that time of year when Government Services Administration (GSA) schedules are in the spotlight. Many federal agencies use these schedules to access discounted products and services that will streamline the federal procurement process. This contract vehicle is particularly important during federal year-end buying season. Every year, agencies scramble to spend their remaining budgets by the September 30 deadline or else lose their funds.
Read MoreWorkplace safety is paramount, and sometimes the worst accidents are the easiest to prevent. Slips, trips and falls account for 25% of all injury claims per fiscal year and 15% of all accidental deaths, second only to motor vehicles. They are also responsible for more than 95 million lost work days annually. Here are four simple ways to prevent your employees from getting “tripped” up.
Read MoreLast June, New York Governor Andrew Cuomo signed a law requiring every restaurant and commercial building in the state to install carbon monoxide (CO) detectors by June 27, 2016. The law will apply to both new and existing buildings with possible sources of CO, such as garages, electrical generators, and faulty furnaces. Alarms should be installed in a central location within every 10,000 feet in a facility. They must also be hard-wired units with battery backup.
Read MoreOn Thursday, June 9, WESCO will officially unveil its new Seattle, Wash., facility. The 120,000-square-foot building will be open to the public for an open house from 12–6 p.m., where attendees can visit a supplier trade show, check out mobile demonstration trucks from Crouse-Hinds and Philips Lighting, and attend free CEC education sessions.
Read MoreWorkplace safety shouldn’t just be a leadership priority. The best way to nurture a true and effective safety culture is to involve your whole organization. There are plenty of ways to make safety a hot topic with your employees. You could start meetings with a brief safety talk, hold a forum, or even arrange creative projects. You could also give your workers opportunities to provide feedback and report possible hazards.
Read MoreNext week’s National Association of Educational Procurement (NAEP) conference in San Antonio, Texas, will give WESCO a special opportunity. On Tuesday, May 24, our Government and Institutional team will sponsor the event’s annual community service project to benefit Soldiers’ Angels.
Read MoreThursday, May 19, will mark the official grand opening of our new branch in Sacramento, Calif. To honor the occasion, we’re hosting an open house from 3-7 p.m. PDT featuring a supplier trade show, interactive product demonstrations, and a casino-themed atmosphere.
Read MoreThis year's LIGHTFAIR International conference was held April 26-28 at the San Diego Convention Center. As usual, it was bustling with packed trade show floors and educational sessions. But this year’s focus was on more than the revolution of competitively priced LEDs.
Read MoreMay is National Electrical Safety Month, and it’s a crucial cause to honor. Electrical hazards result in roughly 325 deaths and 4,400 injuries every year, according to the National Safety Council. Throughout the month, the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) will run a major campaign to increase electrical safety awareness.
Read MoreTy Dillon is sure to remember this past Saturday, April 23. Besides finishing second in the Richmond 250, he also won the $100,000 Dash4Cash bonus.
Read MoreWireless controls, cloud-based systems, and smaller, more powerful surveillance cameras will be among the technologies on display at the annual ISC West security conference in Las Vegas April 6-8.
Read MoreSo, you’re considering installing LED lighting at your facility. You’ve heard all about what it can do for energy savings and the environment, and you’re intrigued. To add to your enthusiasm, here are four subtle ways this technology can help your business.
Read MorePicture this: You’re sitting in a conference room, eyeing a gorgeous asiago cheese bagel. Your mouth starts to salivate. Your eyes begin to bulge. All you want – all you can think about – is that bagel.
Read MoreIt takes only one person to start a movement. That’s what Madison Murchak, a WESCO trade show specialist, is accomplishing. In 2015, she took her passion for supporting our military and combined it with another passion (and talent) for making fleece blankets. The result was Fleece Connection, a Pittsburgh-based non-profit.
Read MoreWhat happens in Vegas ... is some incredible racing action. On March 5, Ty Dillon and the #3 WESCO Chevy made their 2016 debut at Las Vegas Motor Speedway – and they had quite the cheering squad. Joining them and the Richard Childress Racing team were more than 40 lucky customers, supplier guests, and WESCO employees.
Read MoreWhen most of us leave work, getting home and turning off our brains sounds pretty enticing. So while you’re driving and daydreaming about sweatpants and a comfy couch, here are five examples of LED lighting that would brighten your evening commute. Literally.
Read MoreLighting can greatly influence how we experience a museum. It’s what draws us to the intricacies of a sculpture or the vivid colors of a painting. By illuminating these pieces the right way, museums can really enhance their visitors' viewing pleasure.
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