Learn why National Ladder Safety Month matters in 2026. Discover real-world ladder safety tips, common hazards, and training options to prevent workplace falls.

As we look forward to welcoming spring, we’re reflecting on some of the exciting projects completed by Empire Group affiliates over the past few months. It’s been a pleasure helping our customers achieve their goals. From snow removal to dismantling a clarifier, our teams have taken on a wide range of projects. Let’s take a closer look at a few highlights.

February is American Heart Month, a powerful reminder that heart health (and heart safety) should never be taken lightly. While we often associate heart emergencies with hospitals or medical settings, the reality is far more personal and far closer to home. In recent years, sudden cardiac arrest has made national headlines, affecting celebrities, professional athletes, politicians, and everyday people just like us. These events serve as a sobering reminder: cardiac emergencies don’t wait for the “right” place or time. They can happen anywhere—at a sporting event, during a community gathering, or even in a conference room. When seconds matter, preparation makes all the difference. CPR and AEDs: Knowing About Them Isn’t Enough Most people recognize the terms CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) and AED (automated external defibrillator). In an actual emergency, recognition alone won’t save a life, but confidence and proper training will. Here are a few critical facts everyone should know: The Golden Minutes Brain damage can begin within seconds of cardiac arrest. After just four minutes without intervention, damage may be irreversible. Survival Rate Decline For every minute CPR and defibrillation are delayed, the chance of survival drops by 10%. Effective CPR Compressions High-quality CPR requires chest compressions at least two inches deep for adults, delivered consistently and correctly. Cardiac Arrest Happens Outside Hospitals According to the American Heart Association, over 350,000 cardiac arrests occur outside of hospitals each year, with more than 10,000 happening in workplace settings alone. The right training can turn an ordinary person into a lifesaver. How Elk Environmental Services Can Help If you’re not 100% confident in your CPR skills or AED knowledge, Elk Environmental Services, one of our affiliates, is here to help. Elk's experienced trainers offer monthly First Aid and CPR training, designed to equip individuals and organizations with the knowledge and hands-on experience they need to respond confidently during an emergency.

Managing waste responsibly is crucial for all industrial, commercial, and municipal operations. Whether your facility generates hazardous, non-hazardous, residual, universal, or industrial waste, staying compliant protects your business and the environment. Elk Environmental Services (Elk), one of our affiliates, supports organizations across Pennsylvania and the Mid-Atlantic with cradle-to-grave waste management solutions , emergency response , and compliance training , among other services. Below are 10 of the most frequently asked questions Elk receives from businesses seeking to streamline their waste management programs. 1. What services does Elk Environmental provide for waste generators? Elk manages hazardous and non-hazardous waste, residual waste, universal waste, industrial waste, and special waste streams. Services include waste profiling, packaging, transportation, disposal, waste training for EHS professionals, spill response, industrial cleaning, and vacuum truck operations. Elk's goal is to provide safe, compliant, and cost-effective solutions for every type of generator. 2. What is the difference between a Large Quantity Generator (LQG) and a Small Quantity Generator (SQG)? These generator categories are defined by how much hazardous waste a facility generates in a single month, which remains an important baseline even for facilities managing multiple waste types. Large Quantity Generator (LQG): Generates 1,000 kg (≈2,200 lb.) or more of hazardous waste in a month, or 1 kg (≈2.2 lb.) or more of acutely hazardous waste. Small Quantity Generator (SQG): Generates more than 100 kg (≈220 lb.) but less than 1,000 kg of hazardous waste in a month. Very Small Quantity Generator (VSQG): Generates 100 kg (≈220 lb.) or less hazardous waste in a month, including no more than 1 kg (≈2.2 lb.) of acutely hazardous waste. Many facilities use similar internal thresholds to categorize overall waste output and determine storage practices, required plans, and training needs. Elk helps facilities assess their generation levels and align their compliance responsibilities. 3. How long can waste be stored onsite? Storage time limits depend on the type and quantity of waste generated, but general federal thresholds include: LQGs: Up to 90 days of onsite accumulation. SQGs: Up to 180 days, or 270 days if waste must be transported 200 miles or more. VSQGs: No federal time limit is set for onsite accumulation, but generators must manage waste safely and in compliance with local regulations. Even non-hazardous, universal, or residual waste streams often have labeling and storage requirements designed to prevent spills, mismanagement, or compliance gaps. 4. Does Elk Environmental provide waste pickup and disposal? Yes. Elk provides turnkey collection, transportation, and disposal for hazardous and non-hazardous waste, including industrial waste, residual waste, universal waste, sludge, wastewater, contaminated materials, and bulk solid and liquid wastes. They handle a variety of shipment types, from LTL shipments in drums, totes, and pails to full loads in Cubic Yard Boxes (CYBs). The team also manages profiling, labeling, manifests, and all required documentation, ensuring safe, compliant, and efficient service for every type of waste stream. 5. Is there any training needed for a generator to sign a manifest? Yes, a generator will need: DOT Hazmat Training (49 CFR 172.704), which covers general awareness, function-specific knowledge (classification, packaging, marking, labeling, placarding), and security awareness, as defined in 49 CFR Part 172, Subpart H. RCRA (Resource Conservation and Recovery Act) Training , which addresses EPA’s hazardous waste management rules, including emergency preparedness specific to your generator status (e.g., Large Quantity Generator). 6. What are the most common compliance issues for waste generators? Common issues Elk sees across industries include: Incomplete or incorrect waste characterization Missing or improper container labels Storing materials beyond allowable time limits Lack of up-to-date training or missing documentation Outdated contingency or emergency plans Incomplete manifests or shipping paperwork 7. What training programs does Elk Environmental Services offer? Elk offers a complete suite of compliance and safety training, including: RCRA Waste Management Training DOT Hazardous Materials Transportation Training HAZWOPER Spill Response and Emergency Preparedness Customized On-site Training Training is available in person or online and meets state and federal regulatory requirements. 8. What information must be included on a non-hazardous manifest? Typical manifests include: Generator’s name, address, and identification number Transporter information and license number Receiving facility details and permit number Description of the waste (type, quantity, and physical form) Waste code or classification Date of shipment and signatures from generator, transporter, and receiver Some states (like Pennsylvania) have specific manifest forms and digital systems (e.g., PA DEP’s Residual Waste Manifest System). 9. Does Elk Environmental offer vacuum truck services? Yes. Their vacuum truck fleet supports a wide range of operational and environmental needs, including: Sludge and wastewater removal Tank cleaning and industrial pit cleanouts Spill cleanup and contaminated material removal Storm sewer and stormwater system maintenance Support for environmental remediation They provide both scheduled and emergency response services. 10. How can Elk Environmental help with emergency spill response? Elk offers 24/7 emergency response for chemical spills, transportation incidents, industrial releases, and environmental emergencies. Their team handles containment, cleanup, waste removal, regulatory reporting, and full documentation. If your facility requires an SPCC (Spill Prevention, Control, and Countermeasure) plan, Elk can be utilized as a first responder spill contractor in your plan. Need help managing your waste streams? Elk Environmental Services can support your operations. Whether you generate hazardous waste, non-hazardous waste, residual materials, or a combination of industrial waste streams, Elk Environmental Services offers the expertise, documentation support, and field services needed to stay safe and compliant. 👉 Contact Elk today!

With the start of a new year, businesses reflect on the success they had in the last 12 months. They also take the time to appreciate their customers. At Empire Group, we truly appreciate our customers, and the variety of projects awarded to our affiliates. Below are some project and event highlights from last year.

The holiday season came alive on Saturday, December 6th, as over 30 children gathered for Empire Group’s annual Breakfast with Santa event at the Mohnton Fire Company in Mohnton, PA. This annual tradition kicked off the holiday season for Empire Group employees and their families. A Festive Morning Full of Fun and Laughter The event, which began at 9 AM, was filled with excitement and joy. As the children eagerly awaited Santa’s arrival, they kept busy with festive arts and crafts. They colored mini holiday-themed coloring books with fun crayons and decorated gingerbread ornaments, adding even more holiday spirit to the morning. As the clock ticked closer to Santa’s arrival, anticipation grew. When Santa finally made his entrance, the room erupted in delighted cheers. Each child had the chance to sit on Santa’s lap, share their wish list, and receive a gift. From trash trucks and pirate sets to lego and diamond dot sets, every child left with a thoughtful gift, making it a truly magical experience for all. A Delicious Holiday Breakfast for All Ages While the kids waited for Santa, families were treated to a hearty breakfast buffet. The spread featured classic favorites that everyone could enjoy, including: Fluffy pancakes Crispy scrapple Bacon and sausages Scrambled eggs French toast Fruit bowls The breakfast was the perfect complement to the holiday festivities, offering a cozy, warm meal for families to share together. Creating Lasting Memories As the event wrapped up around 11:30 AM, children left with not only smiles on their faces but also goodie bags and gifts in hand. The morning was a wonderful reminder of the importance of community and the joy of giving during the holiday season. The breakfast also marked the last event of the year for Empire Group employees and their families, making it even more special. A heartfelt thank you goes out to everyone who helped make this event a success, including Tonia Carlile and Ellen Ganime. We also send a special thank you to Todd & Karen O'Neill, Harry & Cathy O'Neill, Billy Ruth, and the Mohnton Fire Company. We can’t wait for next year’s Breakfast with Santa!

As Thanksgiving approaches, Empire Group is taking a moment to reflect on a year filled with progress and meaningful connections. At the heart of every success story are our dedicated, hardworking employees whose expertise and commitment to excellence power everything we do. This season, and every season, we are very grateful for each and every member of the Empire family. Celebrating Our Team Through Employee Appreciation Events To honor the amazing people who make our company great, we hold employee appreciation events throughout the year. These events let employees relax and enjoy time together, and celebrate the teamwork that makes our company successful. One of the year’s highlights was a fun-filled day at Knoebels Amusement Resort, where employees and their families’ enjoyed rides, games, and an amazing lunch. We also teed off at our Annual Empire Group Golf Classic, a favorite tradition that brings together employees from our affiliates for a day of friendly competition and camaraderie. These events are just a small way for us to say thank you for the passion, skill, and dedication our employees bring to their roles every single day. Supporting Our Community Together This year also gave us the honor of participating in several community events. Our employees proudly represented Empire Group at: Touch-A-Truck Make-A-Wish Mother’s Day Convoy National Night Out Berks Fall Fest At each event, their enthusiasm and pride were unmistakable, from ensuring our vehicles looked their best to engaging with families, local organizations, and community partners. Their commitment extends far beyond the jobsite; it plays a vital role in strengthening the communities we serve. Showcasing Our Unique Projects and Services At Empire Group, we take immense pride in the diverse range of services our affiliates provide across various industries. This year, they had the privilege of working on several standout projects that showcased the talent and expertise of their employees. Here are just a few highlights: Empire Services : The team recently completed one of their most complex demolition projects. They dismantled an enormous clarifier measuring 198 feet in diameter and 20 feet below ground. With no on-grade access, they lifted equipment into the structure using multiple cranes, including lowering a JLG 450 AJ articulating boom lift with a 75-ton crane. Once inside the tank, the crew built a scaffold stair tower for long-term access and skillfully removed and lifted every steel piece back out of the tank. The project also included demolishing a former control building — all completed safely, efficiently, and ahead of schedule.

Fall is in full swing, and our affiliates are busy providing a variety of services to our customers. We take pride in helping them to reach their objectives. Here are some of the exciting projects and events over the past few months.

Workplace safety is more than a regulatory requirement—it’s a responsibility. A safe and healthy work environment protects employees, boosts productivity, and strengthens overall job satisfaction. Yet, many preventable injuries and fatalities still occur each year because of inadequate safety gear, lack of enforcement, or insufficient training. To spotlight areas where improvement is needed, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration ( OSHA ) releases its annual list of the Top 10 Most Frequently Cited Safety Standards. These violations serve as a reminder that safety must remain a top priority for every employer. Below are the top five OSHA workplace safety violations for fiscal year 2025 across the nation: 1. Fall Protection – General Requirement (OSHA Standard No. 1926.501) For the 15th year in a row, fall protection remains the most frequently cited OSHA standard, with 5,914 violations . Falls are one of the leading causes of serious work-related injuries and deaths, making proper fall protection essential in construction and other high-risk industries. 2. Hazard Communication (OSHA Standard No. 1910.1200) With 2,546 violations , hazard communication continues to hold the number two spot. This standard ensures workers understand the risks of chemicals they handle—both those used on-site and those imported into a facility. 3. Ladders (OSHA Standard No. 1926.1053) Ladder safety remains a concern, ranking third again this year with 2,405 violations . This standard covers all ladder types, including extension, job-made, wooden, and step ladders. Proper setup, inspection, and usage can help prevent many of these incidents. 4. Lockout/Tagout (OSHA Standard No. 1910.147) Moving up this year, Lockout/Tagout received 2,177 violations . These procedures are designed to prevent accidental energization of machinery, which can lead to electrocutions, burns, and severe injuries such as lacerations and fractures. 5. Respiratory Protection (OSHA Standard No. 1910.134) Dropping to fifth place, respiratory protection recorded 1,953 violations . This standard applies to a wide range of industries—including general industry, construction, shipyards, and marine terminals—where workers may be exposed to harmful airborne contaminants.