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Course Categories: Optional

Fixation of CCA and Stabilization of Current Copper Based Preservatives

This module offers information on how the chemicals are “fixed” within the penetrated zone of the wood. The term Fixation applies mostly to the CCA chemical treatment (chromated copper arsenate), whereas stabilization is used for the stabilizing of the newer chemicals in the wood. Both terms deals with the chemicals binding to the wood and becoming as leach resistant as possible. The tests required to determine fixation/stabilization are discussed.

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Course Categories: Optional

Understanding Dry Kilns – Science or Witchcraft?

Here we have a brief yet comprehensive information module on the use of dry kilns or fixation/stabilization kilns, their operation and maintenance procedures. It also outlines defects in the wood caused by various schedules and ways of placing wood in the kilns. Fan operation is also discussed. Finally, it shows the 10 most useful ways to fine-tune the kiln to improve both quality and efficiency.

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Course Categories: Optional

X-Ray Instrument Review – XRF Analyser

This explains the differences between the two main types of analyzer along with some minor maintenance instructions. It will cover sending off samples to outside third party labs as well as the labs of the chemical suppliers. It shows what type of reports that can be expected. This is a quite detailed module.

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Course Categories: Optional

Plant QC Equipment – Analysers

This module goes over the two types of XRF analyzers currently being used by treating plants. It explains their uses and how to setup and use the machines to analyze both wood and solutions. It also covers some moisture meters and their operation and how to use them.

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Course Categories: Optional

TRD Documentation

The TRD is all about complying with a set of government-approved recommendations and documenting this compliance so it can be checked and approved. The module explains all the documentation required for all 11 sections, the 6 sections on design and operating and the remaining sections on environment, health and safety. The documentation should cover all of the following, the operating manual, job descriptions and PPE, all company policies regarding the entire operation, all safety programs including committees, chemical handling and deliveries, atmospheric monitoring and any other aspect of plant operations.

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Course Categories: Optional

Lockout / Tagout for the Wood Treater

Lockout/Tagout concerns not only the maintenance person but the operator as well. Both could be injured or worse if all the rules for LOTO are not followed. The module will offer an indication of what is required, who should be involved and the procedures to be followed by all parties. It will also cover the documentation required to meet legal obligations. It will explain the various pent-up forces involved in various pieces of machinery, even when shut down and how to safely release then prior to any work being done. It will explain the types of equipment used to do LOTO. This is a must do module for maintenance and operations personnel.

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Course Categories: Optional

Confined Space Entry Awareness

This will give you a clearer understanding of what is considered a confined space and the regulations on what is required to enter a confined space. This will include who can enter, who has to stay outside, monitoring the space, and all the recording required during the operation. The following are some of the hazards discussed in the module; engulfment, from flooding, from particulates, etc., oxygen deficiency (19.5% or less) or oxygen enrichment (23.5% or greater), flammable gases or vapors that may be present, hence the requirement for atmospheric testing, combustible dusts (grain silos), toxic substances (chemical tanks) and physical hazards (internal machinery inside the confined space, i.e. impellers, etc. The rules for confined space entry are very specific and have to be followed as set out in the regulations.

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Course Categories: Optional

Hazardous Waste Management for Wood Treatment Plants

These are the issues covered in this module; what defines a hazardous waste, hazardous waste generator requirements (registration, paperwork, etc.), emergency responses to unexpected release occurrences, types of hazardous waste containers (including satellites), wastewater exclusions. The last things in the module is a rundown of the top 10 hazardous waste mistakes found at the treating plants by the auditors over the years and then a brief resume of best management practices.

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Course Categories: Optional

Most Frequently Cited Safety Violations

This is a pictorial presentation showing safety violations found at various plants throughout Canada and the US. This captions quote the Canadian violation. You can use this as a guide to take a tour of your own facility to see if you can find any one of these issues.