November
2008
Departments

TRSA News
The restructuring of TRSA and UTSA poses tremendous opportunities for the industry.

Chairman’s Message
The stakes are so high for textile service companies today that our entire industry we must stand together, especially on issues related to government relations.Gregory P. Jeltema

Commentary
Working with you, TRSA can help the textile services industry grow rapidly from a $14 billion-a-year business to a $20 billion enterprise.
Roger F. Cocivera

From the Editor
An opportunity to give you more. Thoughts on Textile Rental’s recent readership survey and the announcement of a restructuring of TRSA/UTSA.

On the Environment
Facing budget and other pressures, POTWs are questioning textile service companies more stringently than ever on wastewater compliance issues. We look at strategies for responding.
Bob Schaffer

News from Washington
As America prepares for the transition to a new administration, it’s important that members reach out to their elected officials, regardless of party. TRSA will do its part to help. Lawrence A. Fineran

HR Adviser
We consider the “Sandbox Theory” of human resource management. To put it another way, think what your company could do if everyone collaborated on building a better future. Lori Jesberger

Corporate Briefs
Textile service and supplier news

Marketplace
A fresh look at new products and services

Features

Pulling Together—Restructuring Brings Three New Faces
The recently announced reorganization of TRSA and UTSA is already producing benefits in the form of a strengthened TRSA staff.

GPS & Route Optimization: Make Every Mile Count!
This month’s Healthcare Seminar includes a session on route optimization that can help you get a better handle on fleet expenses. Look here for excerpts.—Michael Deeb

Don't Get Stuck—Effective Glove Protection at the Right Cost
Protecting employees from needlestick injuries requires a review of cost-effective hand-protection gear that provides puncture resistance, as well as comfort/dexterity and durability.—Ruth Davis

Retrofit of an Operating Healthcare Facility
Laundry managers thought they needed a new plant to accommodate expected growth, but in fact a retrofit effort freed up enough space to meet their needs at a far lower cost.—Gerard O’Neill

Sticky Fingers— Lessons in Linen-Theft Prevention
Even the best-managed healthcare and hospitality linen services aren’t immune from the scourge of textile pilfering. Here are practical, cost-effective ideas for dealing with this perennial problem.—Ruth Davis

Canadian Trade Winds

Ecotex pursued outsourcing to grow its healthcare business in Western Canada; then it bought and enhanced a healthcare plant in Tacoma, WA.—George Ferencz

Exchange Carts—Better Service and Profitability
A healthcare launderer transitions from bulk linen to a value-added exchange cart system.—Scott C. Sloan

Bed Linen Breakthrough—100% Polyester!
Laundry operators and suppliers tout the benefits of advanced polyester sheets and pillowcases.—Ruth Davis

Full Service Leasing Boosts Oklahoma Laundry
Switching to larger, eye-catching trucks on a lease basis generates big savings, while boosting customer and employee satisfaction.—Seth Skydel

It's Not Easy Being Green
We look at the FTC’s rewrite of its “Green Guides,” which advise business operators on legal standards for claiming environmental benefits.—Christopher R. Brewster

OSHA Strategic Partnerships—A Safe Option
OSHA offers programs that emphasize cooperation with businesses to improve workplace safety.—Ruth Davis

Better Productivity: It's in the Bag

Automated bagging equipment for shop towels is saving laundries time and money, while providing an ergonomically friendly environment for employees.—Chris Keppler

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