WSA Member Update 7.15.24

July 15, 2024 Dear WSA Members, Last year we only had one application for WSA’s two $2,000 scholarships. This year, as in 2022, we didn’t have anyone apply. The inescapable conclusion is that the program may have run its course… or, perhaps, that WSA members and others in the industry are simply not willing to post the info, which was provided to both WSA members and the general WorldSweeper e-newsletter recipients, for their employees to review.  Either way, I’ll be evaluating whether or not WSA’s Memorial Scholarship program, which since 2013 has provided a total of $36,000 toward industry-related students going on to trade school, college, etc., should be continued in future years. There has been concern that – with marijuana being moved from a Schedule 1 to a Schedule 3 by the federal government – the change may disallow testing for drivers of business vehicles, including sweeper operators. Here’s what Transportation Secretary, Pete Buttigieg, says on the topic:  “Our understanding of the rescheduling of marijuana from Schedule 1 to Schedule 3 is that it would not alter DOT’s marijuana testing requirements with respect to the regulated community, for private individuals who are performing safety-sensitive functions subject to drug testing. “Marijuana is referred to by name, not by reference to one of those classes, so even if it moves in its classification, we do not believe it would have a direct impact on that authority,” he said. You can read more at this link. I invite you to check out a new article from HDT Truckinginfo, called “Save Costs With AI-Powered, Data-Driven Predictive Maintenance.” The explanatory info says: As you explore ways to fortify your bottom line, look to your shop and fleet vehicles. An ounce of prevention is worth thousands in breakdowns, downtime and repairs. Maintain healthier trucks, save thousands in critical repairs, and run a more efficient shop – all through predictive maintenance. The white paper by Zonar Systems covers how to:Consolidate shop visits and reduce workflow disruptions.Avoid more on-the-road breakdowns, tows and roadside expenses.Resolve certain vehicle faults for immediate savings.Empower non-technicians to take a more active role in fleet health. This month, our Safety First! post has info centered around keeping your employees and company safe in this time of extraordinary heat. July’s Safety First! message discusses the following: • Defensive Driving Reminders • Hot, HOT, HOTTER and HOTTEST = HYDRATE! • Cooling Towels and Other Tips for Hot Times Ahead • PPE – Ticks – Plants – Insects – Critters Also remember we offer a one-page handout of reminders about mitigation steps worth taking when working in extreme heat. I’m interested in your suggestions about what you’d like to read in our twice-monthly updates. And, as always, if you have questions or comments about this WSA Member Update, or anything else to do with the World Sweeping Association or power sweeping in general, please let me know. Good Sweeping, Ranger Kidwell-Ross, Executive Director World Sweeping Association