FDA Seeks Consumer Representatives with Medical and Consumer Expertise
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is seeking individuals to serve as Consumer Representatives on FDA Advisory Committees. Qualified individuals will have knowledge and expertise in all medical fields, as well as a current affiliation with a consumer organization or association with consumer interests.
Individuals serving as Consumer Representatives must have the ability to analyze scientific data, understand research design, discuss benefits and risks, and evaluate the safety and efficacy of products under review. Consumer Representatives must also be affiliated with or participate in consumer or community-based organizations, as they represent the consumer perspective to the advisory committee. They also serve as a liaison between the committee and interested consumers and organizations, and facilitate dialogue with advisory committees on scientific issues relevant to consumers.
To learn more, visit the FDA Advisory Committees webpage or contact Kimberly Hamilton, health communication specialist for the FDA (301-796-6319; [email protected]).
ESA Blog Highlights Smart Home Technologies that Promotes Home Security
The Electronic Security Association (ESA), an ANSI member, recently posted an article about smart home technology on Alarm.org, its online resource for consumers. The article details some of the advantages that developing smart home technologies offer in protecting homes from criminal activity.
One common use of smart technology in home security is continuous capture and analysis of everyday activity, allowing the system to detect unusual activity and send an alert to the homeowner's smartphone when it occurs. Other smart home technologies can deter criminal activity before it starts, including remote control of indoor and outdoor lights, door locks, and security systems.
Learn more in the ESA article.
FOA Provides Fiber Optics Career Guide for Students
The Fiber Optic Association (FOA), an ANSI member, has a webpage and video guiding high school students and other individuals who are considering a career in fiber optics.
The page provides an introduction of fiber optics in general. Readers learn where fiber optic professionals work, what companies employ them, and what salaries they earn. The page also offers tips for getting started and a general roadmap to follow to begin a career in the field, as well as links to resources like online self-study courses. A YouTube video provides further information for those interested in entering the field.
Read more on FOA's website.
BPI Outlines Steps to Follow after Smelling Gas in the Home
The Building Performance Institute (BPI), an ANSI member and accredited standards developer, has published a guide instructing what one should do if they smell gas in the home.
If you smell gas and a burner was accidentally left on, BPI advises you immediately turn off the burner and extinguish any flames that are lit. Turn on the range hood to its highest setting, and do not light any other flames like candles or cigarettes. Keep all appliances and light switches off, and do not turn on your car if it's near the home or in an attached garage. Open all doors and windows, and get all people and pets out of the home if possible.
Readers will also learn proactive health and safety steps for combustion appliances, as well as steps to keep gas appliances out of danger.
Learn more in the BPI news item.