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National Association of Fire Equipment Distributors NAFED
  • ABOUT
    • About NAFED >
      • Code of Ethics
    • History >
      • Past Presidents
    • Board of Directors
    • Staff
    • Contact
    • Careers
  • EVENTS
    • 2021 Conferences
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  • CERTIFICATION
    • About NAFED Certification
    • Renew Your Certification
  • STORE
    • Online Store
    • Customized Orders >
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  • TRAINING
    • Online Training
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    • Classroom Training
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    • Regional Resources
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    • Resource Links

DOT Update on Fire Extinguisher Classification

4/1/2021

 
The U.S. Department of Transportation has made a major revision to CFR 49 Section 173.309 Fire Extinguishers. The revision was made to the opening section which describes what the US DOT classifies as fire extinguishers. This DOT description is not based on product use, NFPA, or other fire-related definitions. The DOT regulates the manufacturing, testing, and transportation of what it describes as fire extinguishers.

This revision makes pre-engineered and engineered fire extinguishing system cylinders "fire extinguishers" for transportation purposes. With this being the case, pre-engineered and engineered system cylinders would be required to be marked, labeled, and entered on the shipping papers as Fire Extinguisher, UN1044, Hazard Class 2. NOTE: this does not include any carbon dioxide cylinder, extinguisher, or cartridge. Carbon dioxide must transported, labeled, and marked as Carbon Dioxide, UN1013, Hazard Class 2.

Additionally, fire extinguishers and systems cylinders that are cartridge or cylinder operated may be transported as a fire extinguisher with the following limitations: the cartridge/cylinder must be part of the full assembly and as referenced in the DOT Interpretation 19-0052, the cartridge/cylinder must not contain carbon dioxide.

For additional information on packaging, please refer to DOT Interpretation 12-0075 which describes what the DOT considers as acceptable packaging of non-specification (cylinder) fire extinguishers.

Below is the text of the updated CFR 49 Section 173.309. The underlined areas are the revisions. For reference, you can access the full text here.

CFR 49 §173.309 Fire extinguishers.
This section applies to portable fire extinguishers for manual handling and operation, fire extinguishers for installation in aircraft, fire extinguishers for installation as part of a fire suppression system, and large fire extinguishers. Fire extinguishers for installation as part of a fire suppression system include cylinders charged with either a compressed gas and an extinguishing agent or a gas which comprises the sole fire extinguishing agent in the system. A fire extinguisher does not include cylinders pressurized with a gas for purposes of expelling a separately stored extinguishing agent in the fire suppression system. Large fire extinguishers include fire extinguishers mounted on wheels for manual handling; fire extinguishing equipment or machinery mounted on wheels or wheeled platforms or units transported similar to (small) trailers; and fire extinguishers composed of a non-rollable pressure drum and equipment, and handled, for example, by fork lift or crane when loaded or unloaded. Cylinders filled with a compressed gas whose purpose is to expel a separately stored extinguishing agent may not be transported under this section when offered for transportation or transported apart from a suppression system.

2020 End-of-Year State of Business Survey

1/14/2021

 
We want to thank everyone who participated in our end-of-year survey. Here is a summary of the responses with 79 responses logged.
​
1. How is your staffing?
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Other:
  • Fully staffed but looking to hire at least 2 positions
  • Only an owner/operator. No other employees before or since pandemic started. Use a specific group of subcontractors to perform some of my work.
  • Always need to find GOOD employees!
2. How many of your employees have been sick with COVID-19, if any? Have you had a workplace shutdown or interruption of service due to positive cases?

37 respondents say they were unaffected by illness or shutdowns.

Other responses included:
​
  • 3, no shutdowns
  • 5 employees, no shut down due to cases only quarantine
  • At this point, we have 10 employees off sick for the Covid. This number represents 1/6th of our team
  • 4
  • We have seen a significant increase in employees with Covid in Q4 compared to Q2. Roughly 20 staff members tested positive while another 30 were quarantined but did not test positive. This created significant disruptions to normal business production in November and December
  • None sick - but been tested multiple times due to possible exposures.
  • One employee tested positive. We had two employees to quarantine but tested negative. Have not had to shut down in 2020.
  • less than 10 positive cases. Shutdown a branch office for a week.
  • Two positive. Neither exposed other coworkers. Contained within those exposed outside of work environment
  • 1
  • 1
  • only 1
  • 1 confirmed case of Covid 19. Several quarantine situations during the year, but all were negative for Covid
  • 4
  • 12 positive cases. No shut down and no interruption of service, however had to juggle previously scheduled appointments with the technicians for 2.5 weeks.
  • 9 - 10% of workforce, mostly field. No impact to jobs. Closed office a couple times and had office employees work remote though. Had rotating office schedules.
  • 2 - Techs got it, both back to work doing well! No shutdown just protocol in place.
  • We Had one person in late February early March sick at the time and was diagnosed with Covid-19 about 10 days later he was on vacation at the time and was in the hospital for 3 weeks
  • 2 and they quarantined. No shutdown or interruption
  • 3, No Interruption
  • 20
  • 4 sick out of 45
  • 2 People, some work pushed back because of this.
  • Zero, however, we have had to have people quarantine which hurt our business.
  • 1
  • 4 out of 20
  • We have had six employees come down with Covid. It is definitely affected the flow of service.
  • 1, no
  • One contracted COVID on a personal trip, and took two weeks off. No contact with other employees. Two others have quarantined due to exposure, but never tested positive for COVID. No shutdown, nor interruption of service.
  • One covid positive employee. Using multiple tactics to avoid a workplace shutdown
  • Ten
  • 2
  • We had one employee who was sick with COVID-19
  • 5 no shutdown or interruption
  • 5%. No shutdowns or interruptions.
  • 58 (5.5% of our workforce) as of today.
  • 8-10 sick with COVID. No business shutdown or interruption
  • A few have had it but we haven't shutdown and they have been back to work within 14 days.
  • 20+ some interruption with quarantining the close contacts. Also, customers postponing work due to their staff having cases.

3. What percentage of your workforce was impacted by employees testing positive for COVID-19, if any?
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4. How has revenue been for 2020?​
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5. What has been the most challenging aspect of business in 2020?
  • covid safety for our staff, scheduling
  • Covid 19
  • Morale. It is very difficult for our employees to maintain a positive attitude with the uncertainty in the country.
  • Keeping employees safe from Covid.
  • Skilled and certified work force
  • The virus
  • Closed businesses are hard to meet up and service.
  • 90% of our customers are destroyed. Restaurants are closing every day of the week. They will not return for years to come. Our lenders have stopped lending to any restaurant operations.
  • Managing through state shut downs, employee safety while looking to keep everyone employed for future success
  • Mask mandates. And some small customers (locally owned businesses) declining or delaying services.
  • Constant Adjusting. large projects being put on hold due to uncertainty.
  • Dealing with the stress of the challenges of day to day operations. Keeping our employees safe why balancing getting enough work done to keep business going
  • Businesses being able to pay for our services, when they are either shut down or not able to serve at capacity.
  • construction slow down, scheduling, deferred maintenance
  • Government shutting down businesses.
  • Readjustment.
  • Navigating with customers reduced hours and scheduling.
  • Keeping up with Covid requirements and scheduling
  • businesses being closed
  • Employees wanting to take unemployment or FMLA under the CARES act.
  • Getting the work completed
  • Getting in to accts
  • the uncertainty of our health of customers especially retail vertical
  • managing expectations of staff and customers
  • Maintaining communication, awareness and execution of the COVID initiatives created by federal and local government legislation with the employees.
  • Travel - We cover a large service area and it is not drivable. We travel by air or sea to outlying locations.
  • We are an essential business but many customers are not so they are not open
  • Staying fully staffed due to close contact of our employees with customers that tested positive.
  • Slow pay, closings from restaurant accounts, and trying to get people back on track for fire safety service, We have some customers holding off service unless it is absolutely necessary because of Covid!
  • Dealing with the COVID in nursing homes getting appointments scheduled
  • Scheduling service work and projects
  • Service is down about 10% largely due to restaurant business being off, but our engineered systems department has sold a lot of new fire alarm installations and clean agent gas systems making us overall up.
  • Keeping and hiring employees
  • Catching places that were closed
  • Slower start up than expected due to projects not taking off as quickly
  • New clients
  • personnel issues
  • CLOSED BUSINESSES
  • Access into closed occupancies to perform work to comply with Fire Code requirements.
  • Still finding employees
  • collecting $$$$$$$$$$$$$
  • Dealing with employees' fear and anxiety
  • Been looking for new employee prospects. Most I'm not impressed with. Work force has become limited in our area.
  • State Shutdowns
  • Finding clients at their place of business.
  • finding employees
  • Getting access to businesses that have been shutdown due to covid.
  • scheduling
  • Not knowing who is going to be showing up to work on a day to day basis. Not knowing what customer is willing to have us do their work on a day to day basis.
  • getting and keeping stock of parts needed to conduct business due to manufacturer shortages.
  • Collecting on invoices
  • COVID
  • The instability from COVID to our customers.
  • Other than the measures to control COVID infections in the workplace, it has been a typical year. No special challenges.
  • Getting employees on same page when it comes to covid awareness and taking all precautionary measures.
  • Employees - protecting them, navigating the mine field of covid consequences OSHA, FFCRA, "opening Texas", keeping employees working and furloughing, PPP
  • Business loss and morale.
  • People and business shutdowns
  • The additional precautions that we needed to take. Also keeping morale up and ensuring that our employees' mental health was a priority.
  • Keeping employees busy
  • Customer business closures.
  • Govt rules and regulations and taxes
  • planning for the unknown
  • ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE
  • Covid restrictions and scheduling appointments with clients.
  • Adapting
  • Scheduling work with customers. Working around their full and partial shutdowns and their Covid related requirements for entering their facilities
  • Product delivery delays. Gaining access into customer's facilities to perform service.
  • Predicting sales
  • Customers staying open or allowing us in to complete work. Finding talent continues to be on the list.
  • Staffing. Schedule juggling.
6. Have any of your clients gone out of business this year?
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Comments:
  • We have seen a significant reduction in work forces related to the food service and hospitality businesses. Their revenue has been significantly decreased
  • My clients are closing every day. Not only small "Mom and Pop" restaurants, but very large chains. Wendy's, Waffle House, Long John Silvers, Subway, Red Robbin, ETC.
  • Primarily small mom and pop restaurants however large hotel chains have stretched payments creating concern for those as well
  • Very very tiny amount of them.
  • Many closed temporarily but now in California some have closed for good.
  • We have had a couple of place go out of business, but they were having trouble prior to the COVID outbreak
  • Sad to watch so many small businesses that shut there doors thanks to our Governor. I feel so blessed to be still up and running.
  • Forecasting to lose 40-50% of restaurant trade
  • Not yet, but we have a lot in the restaurant sector and the restaurants are hurting terribly right now. Some may go under if they do not receive a second PPP loan
  • Mostly restaurants.
  • besides many retail customers going bankrupt many have also closed a number of locations
  • Food industry especially
  • Mostly small businesses, restaurants, and some large office space customers, that are working from home because its safer, less expensive and more productive. ( Approx. 50 accounts so far. )
  • Restaurants and small businesses
  • Many small bars with forced shut downs.
  • Very few went out of business. All were small businesses. None of our larger customers went out of business - most of them are essential businesses and are exceptionaly busy.
  • A number of restaurants.
  • We have a large variant when it comes to this. I would say by and large the majority are restaurants.
  • We have definitely lost some of the smaller businesses.
  • Mostly restaurants.
  • A few restaurants have closed. Some other closures driven by market conditions unrelated to COVID. New accounts have more than backfilled those closures.
  • Mostly restaurants
  • But then we haven't reached everyone yet
  • Restaurants mostly
  • RESTAURANTS
  • Entertainment
  • Several bankruptcies among non-restaurant customers and many other restaurants that are now closed and may not reopen
  • Restaurants and hospitality industry partners.
  • Restaurants, small specialty businesses, movie theatres,
  • Not many...yet anyway.

7. In planning for 2021, is there anything you have to plan differently than you normally do?​
  • tighter budget, try to be prepared for a situation where employees may have to quarantine
  • We are performing assessments of our customers prior to extending large amounts of credit. We have noticed funds are becoming scarce for many customers
  • Be willing to negotiate the price on new installations.
  • Proactive mindset to business re opening
  • We are going to try to set up a drop off location to minimize contact.
  • Yes, much more aggressive sales and marketing efforts to build market share while others are getting back on their feet
  • less travel, more webinars, maintain precise stocking levels.
  • Yes - no hiring for now. Looking to any government assistance we can get to help us through these lean times until we can get all employees vaccinated.
  • Yes. We will keep trimming what we purchase from our suppliers while trying to take care of our customers.
  • trying to stay cash heavy as possible.
  • No. Just look for the opportunities to fill the gaps. This year we sold a lot of PPE.
  • Remain flexible and up with all CDC directives
  • More initial communication prior to inspections.
  • Become more efficient in our processes.
  • PPE consistent on every job site, constant PPE training, taking advantage of a 2nd PPP loan and hiring another sales person to boost numbers and get us back onto the road to recovery
  • Last minute flexibility when we find out a customer's location has COVID and being able to adjust the schedule.
  • Not at this time
  • being conservative with budget for 2021 until see long term affect of this pandemic on the economy and health of customer verticals
  • Flat Year to 2020
  • Marketing efforts will take on a different approach. Sales/customer relationships will be fostered using more technology. WFH has become the norm for many employees, due to COVID, we may have to incorporate that balance or change in the near future.
  • Travel is still an issue going into the new year
  • just have to wait it out
  • Sell more multiple service contracts to make up for lost Covid revenue.
  • More so than ever be aware of masks and gloves to eliminate potential exposure.
  • Recruit better
  • Prepare for the higher gas prices and the clients going out of business due to the restrictions that will return and the higher taxes because of the Harris/Biden presidency.
  • Be busier
  • loss of revenue due to new president
  • No. Just have to try to schedule jobs when they are due to be performed. If jobs are deterred then that impacts other jobs' scheduling in future months.
  • Don't think so. Seems to be working so we are going to stay the course.
  • closing of restaurants
  • more conservative and cautious in spending
  • Our scheduling had changed drastically in the 1st and 2nd qtr.'s last year. 2021 will bring challenges this year.
  • Going back on closed or out of business account.
  • not for now except site access is more difficult
  • Scale up internet presence, make bigger effort for new customers, repeat and existing customers are no longer enough.
  • Yes what I stated before yes extra planning on a percentage of the workforce potentially being out as well as a percentage of customers postponing or going out of business.
  • clearly covid has changed everything
  • We need to hire and will need to figure out how to safely train the new staff.
  • Training new employees
  • Work harder to retain existing customers and implement different sales/marketing strategies to not only make up for the losses but also grow the business.
  • Prices are going up
  • Taxes, employee compensation/benefits
  • yes watch out as cities counties and fire agencies will run out of money see above work with NFPA as we are now running a "fruit stand" with alot of our products run out of date not worn out
  • Not really, just adapt and move forward
  • Continue an aggressive scheduling effort of calling every customer and making appointments for almost every call. Our office is now capable of working 100% remote as needed and will continue to work only part time on an in person (at the office) schedule
  • Longer lead times for product. Staff continuing working remotely which we never had done prior to 2020. Looking at self insuring for health insurance due to continued increased costs.
  • Always assessing. Marketing and sales push to gain customers that may have lost service providers due to COVID.
  • You tell me what's going to happen in 2021 and I'll plan for it.
8. Is there something that you’d like to see NAFED doing to better support you?​​
  • continue to offer online training and support, keep doing quarterly surveys to keep the industry updated on what others are seeing around the country
  • Provide updates on quarantine regulations for employees that test positive and for employees that have been exposed but are not Covid positive
  • Let’s have the conferences this year safe and sound.
  • offer more virtual training with CEUs
  • The compensation survey was very helpful but wish there were more participants. Would also be good to see suppliers provide general overall perspectives on their business. Last, Service Trade has hundreds of fire protection service companies and they publish data on LinkedIn (at times) that has provided good insight to how things have progressed or fallen back with the national data they have. Would be good to see this if they are open to sharing with NAFED too
  • 1.In person classes / training. 2.Email (short) technical tips/videos to my technicians.
  • More topics on the importance of maintaining good stocking levels during the pandemic. Shipping goods in a timely fashion has become more difficult and needing an item urgently is becoming more prevalent as manufacturers are streamlining their processes to carry only enough inventory as required. This means forecasting will become more vital as will maintaining adequate stocking levels for distributors.
  • Keep looking for programs that might benefit our industry (grants, PPP loans, PPE Equipment). Help us navigate the Families First Act. (paying employees while waiting for test results?)
  • Do not cancel any of the Conferences this year.
  • Continue communicating with all members and share any advancements throughout
  • NA. You guys have been very informative and helpful.
  • Help push for a more stringent regulation process in our industry. The fraudulent dealers need to be forced to either inspect devices correctly or be fined for failure to do so. I was warned early on about the amount of fraud there is in the fire extinguisher industry. I never knew it was this bad. In NC, we have no standard regulations and guidelines to hold companies accountable for their actions. I would also like to see a more stringent training offering around the US we can attend or send technical staff to for constant training on fire extinguishers and emergency lighting. Need more hands on.
  • All good right now
  • NAFED is a great association for our industry. I can't think of any additional support we need today.
  • Keep in touch more so all members will want to renew membership
  • offering zoom classes for members at a lower rate, or for free, to keep employees up to date, and keep them working
  • more on line training opportunities
  • Been pretty happy with NAFED. Would like to go back to in person training. I think in-person training offers more opportunities for questions and learning.
  • Local trainings or online classes with ceu's.
  • I appreciate the responsiveness of NAFED.
  • Promote our industry as a viable occupation.
  • Practice pretests for NFPA 10 and others
  • see above, work with NFPA on date rules, puts the legal profession in charge as guilty if use good but outdated equipment!
  • Adapt and move forward.
  • Continue to provide these types of surveys and gather info from across the country so members can see what and how others are doing. Also provide additional online training opportunities for members
  • Keep up these surveys
  • Keep up the stream of info and looking forward to the Conferences coming back on-line. Thank you

AFFF Fire Fighting Foam Update

12/18/2020

 
There has been growing concern about the presence of PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) in AFFF (Aqueous Film Forming Foam). PFAS have been associated with serious environmental, pollution, and health issues. This has been a topic of discussion at NAFED conferences for the past three years. The major areas of concern have been at civilian and military airfields, petrochemical facilities, and firefighting testing and training facilities where AFFF has widespread use.
 
This issue also includes AFFF fire extinguishers. Recently both Amerex and Ansul have stopped production and sales of AFFF fire extinguishers and recharge agents. Badger is in the process of redesigning their stainless-steel cylinders and, once completed, will be offering their AR-AFFF extinguishers. A Buckeye representative stated that they are developing an AFFF extinguisher that should be introduced in the future.
 
This development has a significant impact on the fire extinguisher service industry. The current NFPA 10 requires that these extinguishers be recharged every three years and hydrotested every five years. However, without the agents being available, the extinguishers cannot be recharged and should be removed from service. Depending on the hazard being protected, another Class B rated extinguisher may be substituted. However, dry chemical or clean agent fire extinguishers do not have the ability to suppress vapors like a foam extinguisher does.
 
What happens next? New agents are being developed but we do not know what the timeline is before they are approved and developed for use in fire extinguishers.

​The next edition of NFPA 10 is scheduled for release in 2021. The new edition contains a proposed revision to Section 7.8.2.3.1 that would read:
7.8.2.3.1 The premixed agent in liquid charge–type AFFF and FFFP fire extinguishers shall be replaced at least once every 3 years following the manufacturer’s instructions, not to exceed the 5-year hydrostatic test interval.

One fire extinguisher manufacturer stated at the NFPA 10 technical committee meeting that their agent does have a five-year life. Once this agent and extinguisher becomes available there should not be a need to recharge those extinguishers on a three-year cycle.

Make certain that if you are servicing or removing AFFF extinguishers from service, the foam solution should not be disposed of by pouring into the sewer system or pouring it on the ground. The solution is considered a hazardous material and an environmental hazardous substance. Disposal must be in accordance with appropriate federal, state/provincial, and local regulations.

August State of Business Survey

8/24/2020

 
We want to thank everyone who participated in our August survey. Here is a summary of the responses with 119 responses logged.

​1.
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​
​2.
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"Other" responses:
  • Yes and No...Have been fully staffed but still short on employees for the amount work we have
  • Staff work long on rotation.
  • Lost 2 guys won't come back making more money with unemployment
  • We've lost about 7 of our 25 over the last 6 months for varying reasons. However, those of us still here are still more than full time.
  • trying to hire techs
  • Need certified technicians.
  • We have the work load to be fully staffed but difficult to get helpers to return to work and funds from PPP loan are gone so difficult to hire experienced techs.
  • Yes, most of our office staff are working from home.
  • Sometimes have restricted hours
  • 60%
  • 2 employees out due to medical advice.
  • Yes. Fully staffed but looking to gain employees as we are taking on more work.

​
​3.
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Comments:
"We are a small company that works mainly at nursing homes and we follow strict guidelines every day."


4.
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5.
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​6.
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Comments:
  • most of these are difficult now including scheduling, planning, supply chain, and morale.
  • Morale is another big challenge. It appears many of our employees are having a difficult time with our "new way" of life.
  • ​What is going to happen to the restaurants in the large metro cities???
  • ​As the state loosens and tightens restrictions, there is a lot of uncertainty from our customers. A lot are affected by good tourism numbers now but anticipating big drop off after apple-picking season is over.
  • ​ALL OF THESE (except Staffing). Couldn't pick just 1.
  • ​So many things! Working during a pandemic and recession, hoping customers are making money so they will pay us, wondering how to keep up on payroll and rent when our receivables are lower, keeping our employees safe when they are in and out of so many locations.
  • ​Many customers are asking us to call back next month. When we call they postpone again and ask that we call back. Very time consuming.
  • ​Everyone is working on everyone's nickel, after 2 months of nothing it will probably be next year until cash reserves are back.
  • We are not experiencing any undue difficulties. We have set new sales records in June and July. These new highs are in part due to jobs that were already in the queue, partly due to industries unaffected by COVID, and some customers who have viewed the COVID slow down as an opportunity to do upgrades.
  • ​Jobs are constantly being rescheduled at the last minute due to our customer's needs and we are trying to travel for customers and transportation is unpredictable right now.
  • ​Waiting is always the problem. Uncertain when we will fully open. Fear that we will not be able to bring all employees back to work.
  • As businesses reopen all the ones that weren't serviced and are now past due are all calling at once
  • ​There are several here that are in play. Scheduling, as some businesses are not in open. Keeping up with what our local government is requiring and Employee Moral.
  • ​Things aren't changing as fast as they were but still changes to keep up with and uncertainty about the future clouds the crystal ball . . .
  • Actually a good mix of several above. Moral is down due to slow days and scheduling is difficult due to clients restrictions on vendor entry. Also supplies are slow about being received due to supplier cutbacks. Getting paid for credit accounts is VERY slow.
  • ​A little bit of everything

June State of Business Survey

6/18/2020

 
We had 88 responses in our latest state of business survey. Thanks to our participants - here are the results!

1. ​Are you fully open for business?
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2. If you let employees go, have you brought them back?
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3. ​If you have had layoffs, about what percent of your staff remains involuntarily laid off?
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4. ​If you've invited employees back, how many of your offers of reemployment have been rejected (they're staying voluntarily unemployed)?
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5. ​How have employees been complying with changes to cleaning/health safety standards?
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6. ​U.S. respondents: have you applied for the Paycheck Protection Program?
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  • Lost out 1st try when funds ran out.  Received PPP 2nd try.  
  • I had my accountant take care of it.
  • Felt very stressful waiting for the banks to accept applications and to wait for results. It Helped tremendously, we were able to bring back all employees. 
  • We received part of what we qualified for.
  • Small bank made it easy for us
  • The process was nerve wracking, so much misinformation.  We did not get into the first round as our bank took forever.  We were in the second wave of Loans.
  • The process itself was not hard with our bank.  We missed out on the first round but got it immediately upon the second round opening.   
  • Our Bank did a great job hooking us up!
  • Very easy with our local bank
7.  Any other types of financial assistance you've received? How much has it helped?
  • Yes we received EIDL and it helped with immediate payroll issues. 
  • Missed out on EIDL. Would like to be able to apply but restricted to Agricultural
  • Mortgage loan forbearance was allowed by bank which was a huge help. 
  • very much
  • We received the $10,000 SBA grant/loan. Did not help that much, the PPP is what helped us alot. 
  • Federal EIDL grant received
  • Through EIDL I received an SBA loan.  It helped tremendously.
  • 100%
8. ​Have you been able to obtain all the PPE you may need?
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  • Need more 
  • Would like to have a source for Lysol or similar disposable wipes 
  • finally, but difficult at first 
  • Lysol disinfectant 
  • sanitizer wipes 
  • Hand sanitizer wipes using sanitizer and paper towels for now 
  • Hand sanitizer is scarce or grossly overpriced - same with gloves & masks 
  • wipes
9. ​Have you, your employees, or any family been sick with COVID-19?
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  • A few employees were confirmed positive. 
  • Wife of General Manager contracted Covid-19 and whole family quarantined for 3 weeks. 
  • We have 38 employees and one had the virus in the beginning of March and was hospitalized but has been back to work for the past month. 
  • 3 Team Members to this point and some family members. 
  • My whole family has been sick and recovered by mid March. Staff is healthy 
  • One employee spouse had Covid. He was tested (negative) and quarantined for 2 weeks. checked again and was negative and allowed to return.
10. How are you feeling at this point in the crisis?
  • uncertain 
  • Unsure
  • Cautiously optimistic
  • OPTIMISTICALLY CAUTIOUS 
  • Positive. Business was down a little in May, but seems to be back to normal in June. We are remaining quite busy.
  • Better than March but still feeling anxious about how business will be for the rest of 2020 going into 2021. 
  • better but still uncertain due to a possible second wave
  • slightly nervous and worried about another wave...some people don't show any concern...
  • Very blessed
  • We are worried about financing the back log that was created during the slow down. We expect to be very busy second half of 2020. 
  • unsettled. expecting a resurgence. If it comes it could be the end outstanding past dues are growing
  • Somewhat optimistic. 
  • Business will come back strongly through September then a more modest monthly growth rate until a vaccine is in use.
  • Uncertain. You cannot believe anything you hear positive or negative about the virus. You just have to use your best judgement to protect your employees and customers.  
  • Trying to stay positive but getting very frustrated with the political hassling back and forth. We need ideas and answers, not complaints, to move forward.
  • impatient
  • concerned, not just about Covid19, but the economy
  • Certainly a troubling time in our world but looking to continue returning to day-to-day business as usual with some added cleaning precautions.
  • good
  • i'm hopeful we can eventually regain some normal operations.
  • At this point, it feels more normal than it did when the pandemic began. As a contractor in a hard-hit state, we had feelings of uncertainty when some of our local customers weren't responding to calls due to being closed, but as they re-open, we're seeing business get even busier than before.
  • Feeling much better, I had a lot of anxiety through this whole process. We had a layoff for the first time in 25 years, I felt anxious about the possible loss of my company or downsizing it with permanent layoffs, and the loss of all the hard work I put in over the years. 
  • Tired of it and ready for it to be all over!
  • The long term effect is going to affect all businesses and people at all levels. Many large and small  businesses are filing bankruptcy. 25K retail stores estimated to close by years end.  1 in 2 restaurants  will either never reopen or will be forced to close due to  decreased revenue and lack of profits.  Very concerned for all businesses at this time
  • Uncomfortable. 
  • Ready to get back to normal
  • Crazy
  • okay
  • We are feeling a decline in the restaurant part of our business.  Our fire extinguisher related inspections and service has seen some increase over last year.
  • I'm skeptical about the reasons for government control over my livelihood and want to get to normalcy.
  • Hoping customers will continue to let us start scheduling more inspections and that we can bring revenue back to normal/growth levels. 
  • Hopeful
  • Nervous 
  • Very blessed. With people losing their lives, businesses, or employment, to be down 10% over last year and already coming back strong, I feel very blessed.
  • ready but frustrated at not getting into more customers
  • Stressed out and in need of some time off to regroup. The business declined as did cash flow for about 6 weeks, we are now seeing a big increase in the volume of work coming in and cash and revenue are picking up again for a steady 2 weeks going into its third straight week of positive increases
  • One day at a time... 
  • Confident that June we should bounce back unless we head backwards in the phases
  • Whole, we got the loan, everyone came back!  We have such great employees! We had a skeleton crew for 2 months May 18th everyone came back!
  • Fine
  • Each day seems to get to be a little better and a little back closer to normal.
  • weary
  • hope for better
  • Sad
  • Anxious
  • Hoping the upward trend continues.
  • hopeful
  • Just another day in the factory of life. 
  • We have been at work this whole time and helping other essential businesses during our local shutdown and took care of the items needed around our shop and vehicles.  I am feeling that we are in a good position at this time and that the major part of this crisis is over in our area.
  • Concerned about receivables and whether or not there will be a long term or permanent reduction in business volume.
  • Things are getting back to normal. Catching up is going to be tough though. We might not get all of the accounts from April and May inspected until next year
  • Willing to comply but overwhelmed with details. What are rational changes that we can make to keep our employees safe, without going overboard?
  • Concerned about future business continuity
  • I am relieved we diversified our suppression portfolio and do not rely on kitchen suppression systems as a main source of revenue as there is going to be a tectonic shift in the food service industry.
  • Good. Restaurants had us on hold, but are now calling for their inspections.
  • Cautiously Optimistic
  • Ready and able to serve our customers and communities with fire protection services. We have a great team and live/work in a great State/Country
  • Ready for everything to be back to OLD normal.  
  • healthwise, great, financially not so much, and very anxious over PPP forgiveness process
  • optimistic things are starting to move in the right direction. 
  • Still a little nervous but feel we are on the back end of it.
  • Just wish our state was back to 100% open! 
  • Ready for it to be over...
  • 80% confident. Only concern is a spike in the numbers in the fall.

April State of Business Survey

4/24/2020

 
We want to thank everyone who participated in our April survey. Here is a summary of the responses with 132 responses logged.
1. Is your business OPEN currently? Is your state/municipality under stay-at-home order?
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2. If open, what safety precautions are you taking? (select all that apply)
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Some specific responses for "other" include:
  • Doors to retail area locked.
  • Daily Temperature Monitoring, Visitor Tracking/Tracing
  • All inside doors are open
  • Staggering office people. Encouraging field technicians to self dispatch from their homes, and come to the shop less frequently. Some staggering of shop techs.
  • spacing scheduling of jobs to low peak hours
  • Face covering, gloves and sanitizers are supplied to all field technicians for use at specific facilities (as required)
  • Health screening questionaire prior to each job (temperautre check etc...)
  • Calling politicians to get on board
  • Curbside pickup/delivery for store front
  • Sanitizing tools, keeping gloves, sanitizer, disinfectant on trucks
  • Masks if Customer requires
  • employees must report temperature prior to heading to office or jobsite
  • Open part time. Mostly for emergencies and customers that have to have service.
  • Lysol wipes, hand sanitizer in trucks, tech required to sanitize everything they touch in location as well as tools before putting back on trucks currently not sending any service techs out, limited office/shop staff only
  • Safety glasses
  • Limit customer's access
3. Are you able to continue allowing your admin/office staff to work remotely
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4. Have you had to lay off anyone or expect to soon?
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5. Are your customers open and willing to have service done?
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6. Have you, your employees, or any family been sick with COVID-19?
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Additional comments:
  • I've been the only one sick, the rest of the staff is currently healthy
  • Only one or two out of 230.
  • I was just brought into a serum test, thoughts were I had it in January. Rutgers U w/ RWJ St Barnabis is studying and preparing serum antibodies
  • 2
  • So far, no problems. Because we are a small company, we might have to shut down if someone tests positive.
  • quarantining for 14 days would be a big impact for our business; trying to come up with creative ideas for this
  • We have one client (nursing home) that has an epidemic in their facility.
  • Possibly one employee. Not correct status to get tested. Quarantined by doctor for 1 week our 3 days after no fever witch ever is longer period of time.
  • Purchased and gave each employee/relative vitamin C to take as an additive. 3-4000 mg per day to boost immune system and it is effective in combating viruses. (Google it.)
  • a few refuse to work because of Covid 19
  • I may have been at the end of February, won't know until a antibody test is available.
7. Have you been able to apply for any of the relief bill financial assistance?
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Comments from those who said "No":
  • We were advised to wait before applying for a PPP loan since the money must be used for payroll. Since there was no way of knowing when the restrictions would be lifted in NJ, it made more sense to wait so that the funds could be used to pay our EES at a time when they could actually generate income. At this point, we have no idea what to do other than wait and pray.
  • Tried to apply for SBA PPP but they closed up applications because they ran out of money already. Waiting to apply.
  • After jumping through multiple hoops for assistance the entire form was changed so new information has to be filled out and submitted
  • Did not choose to apply.
  • Not yet Canada has not come up with the application yet
  • I'm working on a 3 month going forward and I will call customer to see if they are opened and if they will allow me to conduct the service. Some of my accounts I know are closed. I will apply a hold on until they reopened. The reason that I have decided to review my customers 3 months at a time it will not create a backlog when things get back to normal
Comments from those who said "Yes, SBA PPP":
  • No money yet
  • not approved in time to receive any funds in the first funding of the program
  • Program out of money already, bigger bank customers get served first. Oh well there is no such thing as a free lunch. It's our 101st year in business we will move forward.
  • Loan was approved today
  • Just notified of approval for loan.
  • although we have been approved for the PPPL there is uncertainty there will be any money left since a small business is defined as 500 people. That to me is a large company who has recourses available to get the paperwork done. A small company should be defined as 25 employee or less. I don't have an accounting office with several people solely dedicated to that purpose. My office manager does all that and much more. The entire thing is geared to companies that have much deeper pockets that a truly small "mom and pop" operation
  • No money has come in yet...
  • as of today no answer
  • The system was very fast. Had money for both Companies within 10 days.
  • no answer yet
  • not moving quick enough
  • We applied 10 days ago and cannot get an update from the bank on our status of the loan
  • Haven't seen the $$ yet...hopefully the process will work.
  • Work with your banker to make sure you complete the document completely and correctly. Follow up frequently to make sure the process is moving forward.
  • We have applied, but do not know if we will get it at this time.
  • Haven't heard anything back on the PPP
  • submitted 4/7/20, just had follow-up from the bank today (clarifications & a few other questions) so I'm not sure the money will be available by the time we get approval . . .
  • Banks are deferring interest on loans or credit card balance for qualified customers.
  • Very Slow! Multiple applications completed.
  • DON'T QUALIFY NOT LARGE ENOUGH FOR ASSISTANCE SO MUCH FOR SMALL BUSINESS HELP
  • Applied at the earliest possible time and have not yet heard if the application has been approved.
  • supposed to sign PPP today 4-15-20
  • Received the loan funds on 4/15/2020. Went through a smaller local banker versus a big bank.
  • I've been approved for the PPP but it hasn't been funded as of today. I've been told within 10 days.
  • Note: we have applied but have not received any funds as of April 15, 2020.
  • Small banks helpful---large banks not so helpful
Comments from those who said "Yes, other assistance":
  • Canadian loan without payment and interest for 2 years -Canadian sales tax deferral
  • Your survey is not adapted for Canadian Business
8. Do you have any advice for other fire equipment distributors on things you've been able to do or make work during this crisis?
  • Be flexible, change your business to adapt to the changed market place.
  • Reduced Work Hours. Parking Vehicles at Office to Reduce Vehicle Expenses
  • COD for emergencies, calls or 1st time customers
  • Restaurants are either closed, or have limited operations. We are doing most of our restaurant service work at a 20% discount (essentially cutting out our profit margin). We view this as is an opportunity to strengthen personal relationships with clients, and build more customer loyalty. Additionally, we are giving all our staff hazard duty bonus pay. A few hundred dollars each per month.
  • Nope, we're flying by the seat of our pants
  • Your people are your most valuable asset to your business, not the almighty Dollar. So protect them.
  • We are just doing busy work and any calls that come in. The shop area has never been cleaner !!!!
  • USE YOUR HEAD AND TRY TO FIGURE OUT THE BEST WAY TO OPERATE, UTILIZING THE PEOPLE YOU HAVE. WE ARE CURRENTLY CROSS TRAINING DUTIES OF EMPLOYEES
  • Develop a letter stressing the importance of allowing company to come in and continue inspection work to avoid the crush of work that will occur when America re-opens. Send to all "not at this time" customers.
  • Sending out letters on company letterhead advising customers that per state requirements life safety inspections must continue (per NFPA). Advising customers to check their insurance and fire companies insurance to see if coverage is voided if required inspections are not done( Force Majeure claus)
  • Call ahead to see what rules are in place so you are ready when you get to location.
  • At first we took a very proactive approach and basically reduced business operations to a skeleton crew and only responded to emergency calls. over the next two weeks it appeared many of our customers were still open and we decided to start actively scheduling service appointments. Due to our efforts, we were able to bring 70% of our employees back to work. We provided PPE for our techs and provided procedures to implement same.
  • We have found that if we go by and they are open they will either let one person in or set extinguishers outside the door
  • survive
  • Just Know that Amerex is open. Stay safe and healthy.
  • Meet daily with your leadership team to discuss cash flow, revenue and Aging AR. Make plans for future possibilities of layoffs, but work daily and diligently to keep staff employed. Keep channels of communication with entire team open daily
  • communication is key throughout
  • Go slow, do a lot of cleaning/ sanitizing, push for the 6 foot distancing between employees. We are giving out this week, and for 4 more weeks a $100.00 essential work bonus for those that work 40 hours.
  • Heavy focus on scheduling and then pre-checking the same day to confirm. Be much more sensitive to payment/AR (taking more credit cards as needed) and make sure your people agree they are safe (don't want them to think you are putting them in harms way)
  • we are using this time to get lots of school work done and about 50% of our national account work is still open and wanting to stay current on their inspections.
  • keep working
  • Call your local politicians and voice your concern
  • We are carefully choosing the businesses that we are allowing our technicians to enter for service. No on site residential.
  • Luckily we have multiple food truck builders that we install systems and service. To my fellow colleagues I say never in my lifetime would I have predicted something that would slow our industry down. As a small company I've adapted by offering services and billing the customer rather then collecting right away. Its better to have future funds coming when this epidemic is gone.
  • Take advantage of NAFED’s free on-line training. Keep in touch with customers to let them know you are working if they need you.
  • Call and contact customers to work with them to schedule work around their schedules
  • follow government rules
  • Business has dropped off some this month. We are attacking some projects like organization, getting caught up on serviced extinguishers for swaps and re-evaluating our cleaning program for office, shop and vehicles.
  • Embrace technology and take advantage of online training from those that provide it.
  • I feel like I should be positive - at least we are able to work. Wondering if there will be a torrent of work when restrictions are lifted and how many of our clients will make it through this with us. Business will definitely change!
  • Oregon Work Force program. This will supplement working techs who get hours cut due to work loss. Other states probably have a similar program.
  • Some of the customers who do not want us in there businesses have been willing to gather there Fire Extinguishers and set them outside for us to maintenance.
  • Get caught up on all maintenance of vehicles and equipment. Clean and organize your shops and stores. Be prepared to get busy again when businesses start reopening.
  • We sure have time to clean up the shop. Built a new dry chemical room painting all the equipment. Writing up Procedures for every piece of equipment.
  • We have taken the pandemic very serious and are listening to the experts.
  • sanitize all equipment as you work, sanitize extinguishers as you inspect, as good customer service overlooked by clients
  • CLEAN SHOP AND ALL SERVICE VEHICLES
  • Ask customers to set their fire extinguishers outside for your tech if it helps with distancing. Focus on larger accounts to help backfill work. (manufacturing etc)
  • file for the PPP if applicable. practice CDC guidelines to stay healthy
  • Not really, just common sense stuff. Be safe.
  • We are going to have a big cook out as soon as the ban is lifted. As a small family owned company we are disconnected.
  • Schools and government buildings are closed but we have had luck getting techs in these places to service while they are empty.
  • We have offered to do repairs during non-business hours to minimze exposure to residents and staff at nursing homes. It has worked well.
  • we have been contacting schools systems and government entities that we work with to get some projects done, but was in the works somewhat so just happened at the right time for us
  • Patience!!
  • been completing some projects around the office and shop that were put off for some time
  • Paycheck Protection Loan took a lot of pressure off of our company. Received funding and it will let us work through any ups and downs over the coming 2 months.
  • I've been having customers leave portables outside and calling them when I finish to take payment and let them know they're ready.
  • Stay in touch with your customers.
  • Last man standing wins
  • We have called all customers that have service due this month to request a time for the inspection. Additionally we have signed up techs for needed training and re certification classes.
  • Haven't done so yet, but if things slow down any more, I'll be reaching ahead on the schedule in an attempt to get customers to allow service before the month in which they come due.
9. Is there any additional information you need at this time?
  • What is NAFED recommending for the long haul?
  • How many got their PPP money on the first draft.
  • Where to get sanitizer and masks for our employees to be able to keep doing work where required. Most suppliers are OUT and don't know where they can get it. We've had no problems finding disposalbe gloves.
  • No ... but hats off to NAFED for keeping this stream of communication going. Thank you!
  • IN Michigan customers that are still working don't want any routine scheduled inspections etc done during this pandemic. Emergency response only, suppression discharge
  • Strategies for what to do once the SBA loan has been approved. In order to get most of loan forgiven, distributors must be prepared to utilize the funds immediately after receiving funding. Eight weeks goes by quickly so the plan needs to be in place before the money gets there.
  • Sound judgement and common sense need to be in place when contacting customers to schedule service. We are shying away from facilities that have large populations such as nursing or group homes. Our company made a decision to switch from survival mode back to actively promoting our business and, more importantly, maintaining our customers fire protection systems in accordance to the codes.
  • Who has actually revived the PPP or Eidl loans from the SBA that have applied.
  • Michigan needs to get on the same page. BFS says no inspections but the Child Care side says yes and no one is willing to put anything in writing
  • What programs are available
  • prayers, hoping people are taking this serious and following the CDC guidelines, hoping to make the right decisions on when to have service techs back out on routes, continue to survey the members to keep us updated on changes in the industry
  • a very clear description of how that PPP thing is to be utilized other than the instruction sheet everyone and their brother seems to send. Big question is, to get it forgiven, do we just have to hire folks back when over or do we have to be paying everyone with that money during so that they can not be paid for by unemployment?
  • Where can I get masks, gloves and sanitizer?

NFPA Conference Canceled

4/17/2020

 
The largest industry conference, the National Fire Protection Association's Conference & Expo set for June 15-18 in Orlando has officially been canceled.

​Further information directly from the NFPA can be found here.

State of Business Survey Results

4/3/2020

 

We want to thank everyone who participated in our survey. Here is a summary of the results.

1.

2. If open, what safety precautions are you taking? What changes to employee habits?


*CDC guidelines are likely inclusive of some of the other responses.
*PPE could be inclusive of gloves and masks.

Some specific responses include:
  • We are sanitizing several times a day wiping down all computers, phones, tablets, doors, work stations, vehicles. Washing hands frequently and avoiding medical facilities
  • Calling ahead to all customers to see if open and taking any precautions in dealing with any inspections to be performed.
  • No in face meetings, we are using Microsoft teams to communicate.
  • Walk-in is closed, customers not to touch iPads for invoices, made all employees aware of safeguards
  • NONE
  • updated sanitation, changes to front counter showroom polices and PPE including tyvek suits if needed
  • Scheduling service for when fewest number of people will be around or no one around to minimize contact. Techs can cancel appointment if they feel site is not taking proper precautions.
  • twice a week text reminders on hygiene and CDC recommendations, Covid-19 memo with instructions following CDC guidelines
  • Curbside service for in shop - customers wait in vehicle for services to be completed & pay by phone
  • Very thorough COVID-19 policies. Too many to list. Pandemic Committee formed and meets everyday. (manufacturer)
  • Asking techs to remove clothes when home and put them in the washing machine and take a shower before interacting with family. Issuing Ascorbic acid to all who want it to take 2-3X day.
  • Material pickups are call ahead and leave on the dock.

3.


*Many respondents said they are keeping the schedule full by reducing hours and/or their workforce.
*Many are also breaking out their rainy day projects to keep busy.

Further Comments:
  • So far, our public sector accounts, (schools, universities, government offices, etc.) work is business as usual. Our industrial accounts are insisting we perform our services. Our restaurant customers consider this a good time to do service and maintenance, and some updating. Third-party reporting will help us to keep out service schedules on-time. And we have a higher than average number of installations on the calendar which appear to be moving forward.
  • We have a small shop. My one tech is taking voluntary time off when shop work is done. He is very unwilling to go out and service customers and I won't force him
  • thinking out side the box with how we interact with our customers. They set the extinguishers outside, we do them, wipe them down and they come out and get them after we are gone.
  • New installations. Service is very hard to schedule and or get paid.
  • Lots of phone calls to schedule, concentrating on multi family living, manufacturing and fast food.
  • Serving essential critical industries. Ensuring a clear message that life safety and fire protection are critical to the welfare of the public and community
  • We have been moving customers around so that if any cancel or postpone due to COVID 19 we fill the days with the backlog / overflow or new business we gain from promotions to help our city / province. We are contacting NEW customers to offer specials to help them during this time and for the rest of the year as they recover
  • We service grocery stores, auto repair shops and farms. So far so good but if we need we can pull such customers from future months to sustain service while giving those customers a discount for early service.
  • Focusing on larger factories/businesses not affected by the shutdowns. Pushing future jobs ahead if possible.
  • So far we have been able to schedule enough accounts to keep techs busy, focusing on institutions and businesses that need compliance or that are long-standing and we trust them to pay so extend terms to 90 days. Some people are using Paid Time Off days to take a break. Senior tech working on our training outline.
  • Keeping busy one day at a time - by looking for all repairs and calling all customers ahead of time. We are not billing what we normally would be we are getting by with enough to cover payroll
  • doing national account work and some local businesses that will let them in to do the work. we are still doing lots of work with essential businesses as designated by the government
  • pre calls to arrange special times, and procedures to ensure our techs are not exposed. We are also in equipment, and apparatus business so there is plenty to keep busy, and large enough facilities that with split shifts people can maintain cdc discipline.
  • We have been defined as "essential" life safety provider for F/A and Sprinklers and Backflows.
  • We are front loading all the work that supports essential businesses that are open (i.e. gas stations) to the front of the month.
  • Asking facilities permission to perform scheduled inspections and maintenance when they're shut down and facilities are less congested with personnel.
  • Not super busy but busy enough. For now. Mostly pre-scheduled jobs at other essential facilities. Changing the schedule. Next week we go to a 32 hour work week to account for the slow down.
  • Mixed results. Seems to change day to day. Small businesses and restaurants are the hardest hit and are deferring service.
  • We would normally be busier but we are running at about 70% of our normal volume. If we can hold that we will get through this OK.
  • So far, it is getting more difficult with each day. Not that we don't have the work, just can't enter so many of the facilities
  • very difficult to get any work scheduled. most restaurants are closed. some businesses are not accepting outside vendors.

4.

Responses for "other":
  • Possibly if work slows down to a point of not best to stay open.
  • Not yet. That will be a week by week call. We are doing everything we can to keep everyone working.
  • We choose to temporarily lay off some admin staff and absorb in other roles to prep for a slower April possibly- we expect them all to be called back ASAP
  • We had one shop tech working 24 hours while going to school. Laid off due to drop in shop volume and need to keep full time staff working.
  • customers denying services is causing some to not work all day, and we are reducing some of the techs hours
  • If this continues for very long, yes.
  • Temporary furlough for many, but now adding back. Some will remain on furlough for the foreseeable future.
  • lay offs and furloughs on a week by week basis
  • Part time tech went on lay off, admin asst and sales person as well
  • Full pay for 3 weeks. Requiring home study NICET sample tests etc.
  • Reduced hours by 8 hours per week
  • We have held off on laying off until the Government decides what they are doing for small businesses. The owners will not be paid if necessary to pay our employees
  • only person not working was indirectly affected in that he didn't have child care and is the sole guardian
  • Soon

5.

Remote services people are using:
  • Log me in. (Set up through our IT company that manages our computers) Call forward work phones to cell phones.
  • We are using Microsoft Teams and Zoom
  • Forwarding phones from office to cell phone
  • Cisco Meraki
  • SharePoint, Teams, Planner - all Microsoft products
  • Team viewer
  • Remote PC, Microsoft Azure, Microsoft Office 365, Microsoft Teams, various SaaS
  • VPN login for office personnel, and call fowarding
  • Myself and office manager can login to office computers and quick books
  • teramind on all remote computers for monitoring, servicetrade for operations, gmail for communications
  • We have remote log-in to our computers. Able to do billing, quotes, and database updates remotely.
  • Service Trade, ADP
  • Teams, O365
  • MS Teams and Office365, Remote Desktop and VPN
  • Video conferencing. Remote desktop services for access to internal applications.
  • "go to" meeting software for all managers communications among our 7 facilities.
  • Prefer working at the shop
  • service software is cloud based work from anywhere. Forward phones to where people are working.
  • some of our staff can work remotely they have been set up through our IT Company. We use Zoom for meetings.
  • Go-To meeting online conferencing and granting access to our terminal server environment.
  • firepro365, Microsoft Dynamics, Microsoft Teams
  • Microsoft Teams VOIP phones have a online system for desk phones to be used. VPN Cloud based software

6.

Additional comments:
  • Getting fewer customers every week
  • Official statements from NAFED, NFPA, and local AHJs have helped.
  • We have a 2 man force. If I can bring in work, my employee can process it. Fortunately, he is single with little debt. I can see that the revenue stream will be abreviated this month.
  • About 4 of 60 construction sites shut down. Some service customers closed, but most willing to utilize this time with vacant buildings for service.
  • We are still doing work for some public works jobs, healthcare, schools that maintenance dept remain open and want us to perform service.
  • it is day to day, hard to get work scheduled
  • In our area we feel 30% of the customers will allow work performed in their facility. Many of our customers are not allowing contractors in their facility -period
  • State of Michigan is shut down for all non-essential businesses.
  • Yes but very few.
  • Case-by-case. Some that you'd expect to keep us away allow us to service their location, while other very low risk attempt to postpone services
  • We are not at the 50% mark but did have a noticeable amount choose to move / postpone to next month or "pending" what happens
  • less and less as the days go by
  • Most likely to say 'no' are small, locally-owned restaurants that are completely closed.
  • Most are either not open or don't want to pay for it right now because work is slow for them too.
  • recently those who have offices open are now saying they are concerned about cashflow and want to push dates out past July
  • Only essential businesses. A lot of business are shutdown.
  • Need to call and contact every customer to ensure they are open and will allow technicians into their facility
  • Postponing inspections and recheduling jobs with high occupant load & children. Doing some inspections mostly in buildings that have been closed. Concentrating on defielciency service work and emergency work and responding to calls where customers want work performed.
  • We are shocked that in the hot spot NY area that we are. Companies still want services provided.
  • higher percentage of system inspections than portable inspections
  • Down ~10-15%
  • Mecklenburg and Cabarrus counties are the closest to us and have went to 'stay at home' orders. This drastically reduced the amount of work that could be done.
  • We do not want our techs to be exposed to the virus, so we are choosing not to send them out. We also are concerned if we do service and they go out of business or can't afford to pay us.
  • Most customers are doing take out and drive through business, it's not paying the overhead not enough volume.
  • "Annual" clients and restaurants are tough right now...but we do a lot of "monthly" clients including hospitals, defense contractors, electronics manufacturing which are all open and requiring that services can continue.
  • Restaurants are closed but Grocery store chains we are doing as well as other such hotels. hospitals etc.
  • Have had a few where we are not allowed in. These have been mainly food processors.
  • All scheduled PMs have canceled
  • Most restaurants are closed down, bank lobbies closed, doctors offices, etc. closed. I expect that when they open back up hopefully by May, we will be quite busy.
  • Restaurants seem to be the bigger challenge, others are mainly open and some have shut down but still some letting us in.

7. Is there anything NAFED can do for you at this time?
  • I appreciate what NAFED is doing. Keep communicating, and keeping our industry informed.
  • Keep messaging that our work is "essential" and "critical".
  • NAFED has done a good job keeping it's members in the loop. Keep up the good work, it's reassuring having an informational pipeline
  • Continue has you have been and keep us up on all things Corona...Maybe you could help with understanding the "bail out" as it pertains to business loans forgiven for payroll expenses etc. Most small company's do not have one to help them so they muddle through. It would be nice to not have to muddle through!
  • I appreciate the memos regarding fire protection is an essential business and must remain open. Keep them coming. We've passed the memo along to our techs in case they are questioned...
  • Yes, encourage all members to look out for each other. Family, friends, employees, neighbors, and the elderly are our biggest assets. PROTECT YOU ASSETS
  • send cash
  • LOL, I wish
  • NAFED IS DOING A GREAT JOB
  • Promote that fire safety is still essential even when a virus is affecting the community. Fires can still happen and equipment needs to continued to be mantained.
  • Pray and keep keep information coming. Thank You!
  • Letter to CISA about fire and life safety being a necessity to support Essential Critical Industries. Open letter to community why our services are critical (e.g. NFPA Guidance for Maintaining Fire Protection and Life Safety Systems Regardless of Occupancy Status)
  • You have been excellent. Your email re: NFPA's position on essential services has helped a lot to educate our staff and customers. While our AHJ is stating it can be delayed (for annual inspections) this has been an excellent resources to refer to. Sprouse is a huge supporter of NAFED and while not many Canadian Companies attend each year, we commit to being there every year that we can. Thank you for all you do!
  • pray for our industry during this time, it will not come out of this event looking the same!
  • Advocate for the government to support and fund the small businesses who are our customers so they are still viable when they are allowed to open again. Also to increase production of safety gear so that we can keep our staff protected.
  • Keep us posted on national trends
  • Help interpret what the government is doing to help and how to take advantage. Keep communicating that our business is essential.
  • Keep providing information on how the industry is getting on and what others are doing to keep their business open and productive.
  • Perhaps a "Notice to Businesses" paper that fire protection companies could share with customers stating that fire codes, insurance, OSHA, and other groups have not relaxed requirements due to the coronavirus or state shut downs. It is essential that life safety equipment be properly maintained at all times...
  • Yes - share how other FEDs are handling their work and lack of workforce - thanks!
  • nothing in particular right now. you have sent out some good information to the membership.
  • No thank you! Wishing all good health!
  • Just wish us well and to stay healthy!
  • Be well...wash you hands...practice social distancing
  • No, the notice you sent out was great we incorporated it into a memo for the State to prove we were an essential business. The owners are manning the phones this week and slowly bringing people back next week as long as they are healthy!
  • So far NAFED has been great with all the information provided.
  • Probably not. This will probably be the death knell for this small company after 30 years.
  • I don’t know. Any suggestions are welcome.
  • Find a cure for the virus! Just kidding. However, keeping up with the latest news like you have been sending is helpful.
  • Keep updating with any/all information regarding our industry and what small business employers can do.
  • Nothing short of a cure or vaccine, but thank you.

Essential Business and COVID-19

3/24/2020

 
As more and more states issue stay-at-home orders that require non-essential businesses to shut down, NAFED has received several calls asking if the service and maintenance of life safety and fire protection equipment and systems is considered an essential business.
 
We have reviewed several of the state orders and descriptions regarding essential businesses. We have also had discussions with others in the industry, and our consensus opinion is that YES, the installation, service, and maintenance of life safety and fire protection equipment is an essential business.
 
Although your operations are essential, you must remember that business is not “as usual.” You must take all the safety precautions that are currently required. Some actions that you should consider are:

  • Can some of your employees work from home?
  • Stagger arrival times for technicians, so they aren’t all in the shop at the same time.
  • Can shop and office workers be separated by 6-foot distances?
  • Stagger break and lunch times.
  • Remind employees to WASH THEIR HANDS PROPERLY (20 seconds of lather before rinse).
  • Remind employees to practice safe precautions when they are at customers' facilities.
  • Provide disposable gloves and remind employees that they should wear and throw them away whenever they change environments or touch other surfaces.
  • Ensure that employees are provided with the proper PPE if they have to go to any facility that treats or may have individuals that have or have been exposed to COVID-19. If you don't have PPE or do not know what is required, make it the responsibility of the customer to provide the required PPE.
  • WASH YOUR HANDS.
 
NAFED along with FEMA and the Government Regulations Committee are monitoring the situation and a paper is being prepared for submittal to state and provincial agencies. Mark Conroy of Brooks Equipment is coordinating these efforts.
 
Visit the CDC, NIOSH, and your state's website for additional information.
 
There will be other changes to your operations caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, but it is important to remember to be safe.

We also have received additional guidance from industry partners and the Department of Homeland Security regarding essential operations during this time:
Guidance for Maintaining Fire Protection and Life Safety Systems Regardless of Occupancy Status (NFPA)
Guidance on the Essential Critical Infrastructure Workforce (DHS - Cyber & Infrastructure Security Agency)

Coronavirus Update

3/11/2020

 
NAFED staff participated in a webinar "Coronavius (COVID-19): What You Need to Know" presented by the National Safety Council in partnership with the CDC. We've been given access to share this webinar with you so you can stay informed on what the World Health Organization is now classifying as a global pandemic and consider what steps may need to be taken for yourself, your business, and your employees, if you haven't already.

View the presentation here.

Other helpful links on COVID-19:
• An infographic from CDC explaining how to keep workplaces, schools, homes and commercial sites safe from coronavirus
• OSHA Guidance on Preparing Workplaces for COVID-19
• NIOSH Guidance on coronavirus in workplaces
• CDC guidance on mass gatherings and large events
• CDC tips on what to do if you are sick

Regarding the Conference

NAFED is aware that the progressing situation may impact our future scheduled events. We are in close touch with our event venues in Atlantic City and Chicago and will be monitoring all local advisories. If there are any changes, we will update you as soon as that decision is made. We understand if you need to make changes to your reservation and will be waiving the cancellation fee.
​
Be safe and be well.
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180 N. Wabash Ave, Suite 401 |  Chicago, IL 60601
Phone: (312) 461-9600 
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