Newsletter

CSLS Construction Connection

Contractors State License Services is committed to the continued growth and education of your career as a licensed contractor. It is our intention to provide you with valuable information of what's new in the construction industry, important events that you may want to attend, and helpful business and exam preparation tips. You can also stay connected with CSLS through Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and You Tube.

IN THIS ISSUE

DECEMBER 2011

• Drop the Rust
• Generator Dangers
• CSLS Honors Creadell Pete Polee III with a Scholarship
• Tool Care: Preventing Rust
• Words of Wisdom
• Referral Program

---

Drop the Rust
Winter is here, tools will be getting wet, and rust is but a drop away.  Left to its own natural tendencies, iron oxide, the red rust we all know and hate can ruin our tools and appliances and shouldn’t be taken with a grain of salt.

Rust is the result of a simple molecular process between iron, moisture and air. When a drop of water lands on iron, the water molecules mix  with carbon dioxide in the air forming a light acid (think baking soda and vinegar), then picks away at the weaker alloys within the iron. A little molecular restructuring goes on between the elements and the alloy particles are split up. Changes between negative and positive ions result in an iron oxide buildup which, if unheeded, will continue to grow until the layers flake and disintegrate. The pitting you see in a knife blade is a result of the electrochemical reaction of the lifting away of the weaker alloys within the steel.

The rust you see is something you can guard against, the rust you can’t see can be deadly. As rust accumulates, its volume increases. In 1983 the Mianus River Bridge collapsed when an internal bearing was so badly rusted it’s mass literally dislodged a bridge support from its slab.  You see the same type of obvious corrosion build-up on nuts and bolts.

There are many grades of metal on the market which serve various uses and are affected differently by rust. From the bit you buy to the girder you install, the type of metal used should always be an important consideration in any construction project.

The corrosion process for every metal depends on its makeup of alloys. The aluminum oxide buildup on aluminum actually adheres to the aluminum and forms a protective barrier, unlike iron oxide rust which flakes off leaving the metal beneath open to further attack. Copper’s reaction to the elements of water and air causes an oxidation which forms over the copper creating what is called a ‘patina’. This layer of corrosion which sits on the surface, shields the copper below from further deterioration. Stainless steel metals are also available with rust resistant additives, such as chromium and nickel.

With proper attention however, rust can be prevented. Aside from the type of metal used, coatings, and other products on the market can help fight the battle of the rust.  Keeping tools dry and out of the elements however is truly your first line of defense.

---

Generator Dangers

Generators are convenient for temporary electric power but they can also pose hazards. Carbon monoxide poisoning, electric shock and fire are all dangers to take into consideration this winter or anytime you use a generator.

Carbon monoxide is a colorless and odorless gas formed by compounds containing carbon which, because of lack of oxygen, do not burn completely. This is the same exhaust gas from car engines and is extremely poisonous and can be deadly. Every year people die in incidents related to carbon monoxide poisoning, most of them associated with portable generators being used indoors or in partially enclosed spaces. When used in a confined space, generators can produce high levels of CO within minutes. Remember, you cannot see or smell CO, but the danger of carbon monoxide poisoning can still exist even if exhaust fumes are present.

Follow these safety tips when using portable generators:

• Never use inside homes, garages, crawlspaces, sheds or other similar areas even when using fans, or opening doors and windows. The toxic gases build up quickly and can linger for hours after the generator has been shut down.
• Carefully read and follow the instructions that come with your generator.
• Always locate the generator outdoors and never allow CO to come indoors through doors, windows or vents.
• Carbon Monoxide alarms should be installed and batteries checked monthly.
• Get to fresh air right away if you start to feel dizzy or weak.

Generators also pose a risk of shock or electrocution especially if operated in wet conditions:

• Position generator under a tarp or other canopy-like structure and place on a dry surface only. Do not touch the generator with wet hands.
• When using an extension cord, be sure it is specifically approved for heavy duty outdoor use, free of defects and rated for the maximum wattage necessary.
• Keep all cords away from water and secured against potential damage or hazards.
• Never plug the generator into a wall outlet. This is extremely dangerous and presents an electrocution risk.

Fire Hazards:

• Turn generator off and allow cooling before refueling. Gasoline spilled on a hot engine could ignite.