James Madison University (JMU) in Harrisonburg, Virginia has embarked on a rational means to reduce energy costs and provides a sustainable approach to student housing. The investment to install a Drain Water Heat Recovery system (DWHR) at Wayland Hall is estimated to pay for itself in less than three years but will provide dividends for over 40.…

The author is blessed with having the water pipes for the school system in her office. In this article, the author describes how the breaking of the pipes had led to a very worthwhile art experience for her students. They practiced contour and shaded drawing techniques, reviewed patterns and color theory, and used their reasoning skills--all while…

The influx of technology has brought significant improvements to school facilities. Many of those advancements can be found in classrooms, but when students head down the hall to use the washrooms, they are likely to find a host of technological innovations that have improved conditions in that part of the building. This article describes modern…

The plumbing products most appropriate for a high-end hotel or executive restroom will differ from those most suited for school and university restrooms, where large numbers of boisterous students may charge through the doors all day long. However, installing plumbing that can stand up to rough-and-tough student use does not have to compromise…

Sanitizers and disinfectants can play an important role in protecting public health. They are designed to kill "pests," including infectious germs and other microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Unfortunately, sanitizers and disinfectants also contain chemicals that are "pesticides." Exposure to persistent toxic…

Describes a plumbing tool, the ProPress System, that allows campus facilities to eliminate the dangerous and time-consuming soldering process. (EV)

The scale of the mechanical and plumbing systems required to support a large, multi-building academic health sciences/research center entails a lot of ductwork. Getting mechanical systems installed and running while carrying out activities from other building disciplines requires a great deal of coordinated effort. A university and its…

A plumbing program teaches minimum-security inmates technical skills, decision making, motivation, and teamwork. In New York, 80 inmates have completed the program and 2 have become apprentices upon release. The course, combined with substance abuse treatment and high school equivalency, seeks to counteract recidivism with practical life skills.…

Examines plumbing standards and laws regarding lead content in school bathroom faucets and how to address these concerns. Issues to consider when building new school facilities are highlighted. (GR)

Discusses the electronic retrofitting of educational facilities plumbing systems. Some advantages of an electronic plumbing retrofit are cost, hygiene, water conservation, and meeting Americans with Disabilities Act 1990 (ADA) requirements. Issues important to the planning of a successful project are detailed. (RE)

Suggests teaching a unit on use of tools and machines which are common around most households. Provides a list of tools with related activities, focusing on carpentry, electricity, and plumbing. Suggestions for including science principles involved, possible field experiences, and a list of resources are also provided. (JM)

These five articles discuss the improvement of vocational education programs through the infusion of mathematics and science skills. They include an auto mechanics curriculum; an 11th-grade industrial maintenance program (orientation, electricity, plumbing); a combination automotive services-small business program; and two programs at one…

Reviews safety and emergency equipment in their application to chemical laboratories. Discusses American National Standards (ANSI) for equipment. Presents practical considerations for the placement and purchase of equipment. (MVL)

Describes a Vocational Exploration Program at the military base, Fort Lewis, in Tacoma, Washington, which provided opportunities for 20 young women to sample jobs formerly reserved for men. This program is sponsored jointly by the National Alliance of Business and the AFL-CIO and funded under the Comprehensive Employment and Training Act. (MF)

This publication is a curriculum guide for the installation of solar equipment. It is divided into the three major areas of general knowledge, technical design, and installation/maintenance. Associated is a list of relevant and prerequisite competencies identified as appropriate toward student interest groups of technician, installer,…