Why You Should Use a Label Printer

Posted on July 25, 2017 by OfficePlus

Label printers have come a long way. They aren’t the bulky, costly things of decades-past; now, you can own one for a fraction of what they used to cost. And they can fit almost anywhere.

If that’s not enough to convince you, check out some of our favourite benefits of label printers.

Stay organized. Does your filing cabinet look like it’s full of kidnapping notes? Admit it, the hand-written labels on some of your folders are a little less legible than you’d like. Flip through your files with ease and without wondering what, exactly, that word is supposed to be.

2. Keep things civil. If you store personal items in a shared space — the office fridge, for example — mistakes happen. Prevent someone else from drinking your last sparkling water or eating your favourite yogurt with a simple label.

3. Go green. Label printers are our favourite tool for turning recyclable containers into long-term storage. That glass jar that once held soup? Soak off the store label and put on your own. It could be for oats, baking supplies, dried beans and anything else your house loves to eat. Before long, you can have a full pantry of reused, zero-waste storage.

4. Lose less. Are your kids constantly losing things at school or daycare? Label printer, to the rescue! Now, your son’s favourite book won’t be going home in someone else’s backpack.

5. Inventory management. If you’ve got a small business that often needs labels, you’ll find a label printer to be a life saver! Print barcodes and stay on top of your inventory levels at all times.

Proper Waste Disposal at the Office

Posted on April 18, 2017 by OfficePlus

Properly Disposing of Waste at Office

If your workplace is like ours, you go through a lot of waste. That means, between lunches, office supplies and old electronics, you’re sending a lot of garbage to already over-burdened landfills.

Meanwhile, at home, many of us have made changes. We’re becoming waste-conscious, recycling and composting, even adopting zero- and low-waste lifestyles.

How can that translate to the office? Through more conscious day-to-day choices, you can easily reduce your office’s environmental impact. Here’s a guide to get you there.

Old electronics

Have any ancient PCs collecting dust at your office? Don’t throw them in the dumpster! Already, 140,000 tonnes of electronic waste ends up in Canadian landfills every year. These items contain valuable materials that can be re-used to create new products. But they can be tricky to dispose of.

Luckily, there are businesses out there to help you bridge the gap. These differ across provinces and territories. For example, in Ontario, Best Buy accepts things like old computers, TVs, phones and batteries. You can also opt for a service through the Electronic Products Recycling Association, like Recycle my Electronics.

Toner and ink

Here, many local suppliers have you covered. Check to see if you can return your cartridges where you buy them.

Paper and Cardboard

Cardboard and paper can be recycled four-to-five times without loss of quality or strength. Still, it’s important to recycle each of them properly.

Cardboard is naturally biodegradable so, if you have your own compost at the office, this can be shredded and tossed in. Otherwise, for non-soiled cardboard, recycling is your best bet. Break down boxes and large pieces, and tie them together into a tight bundle when you leave them at the curb.

The recycling bin is your best destination for most paper. Even sticky notes, which you may have wondered about, are usually recyclable. Local recycling plants are able to remove the adhesive. But, stop before you throw away that soiled napkin! Keep reading for tips on proper disposal of food waste.

Food waste

Most paper in the office will be bound for the recycling bin, but soiled paper is a different story. Greasy paper plates and used napkins can be composted along with most food items.

ParticipACTION 150 Playlist Vote & Staying Active This Winter

Posted on November 16, 2016 by OfficePlus

Going into hibernation mode is oh so tempting. The colder the weather gets, the less we want to go outside. It makes sense. And of course, staying inside all cozy and warm snuggled up with some tea is one of the best ways to unwind during the cold season. But this doesn’t mean you can’t keep active during your spare time.

Another reason to stay healthy this winter is that we live the great white north! And this year marks Canada’s 150th birthday, which gives us all the more reason to stay active and celebrate in a way that embraces the true heritage of Canada.

Take a look at some ways you can stay active this winter.

Ice Skating

Most cities have a local ice rink, so make sure you get out those skates and take advantage this winter! Ice skating is great cardio and a fun activity to do with family or friends.

Lake Louise

Snow Sprints

Another great way to get that cardio workout in. Find a snow-covered field and try jogging or running in laps. Ice usually doesn’t form on grass so it is safe to run on a grassed area. But if it makes you feel more comfortable, you can do this during or after a fresh snowfall. Also, if you want to take it up a notch, throw some walking lunges into those laps. Just make sure you dress warm!

Image result for running in snow

Skiing/Snowboarding

This snow sport is an amazing way to stay in shape, but it does require more skill than the other alternatives. If you aren’t familiar with skiing or snowboarding, don’t fret it! There are many training classes and smaller hills available to practice on – which is still great exercise.

Tobogganing

Who would have thought such a fun activity can also be a way to stay active! Tobogganing should not be undermined. Walking uphill, especially in the snow, is great cardio and melts mega calories. This is also the perfect way to have some family time while keeping everyone active.

Image result for tobogganing walking uphill

Shoveling Snow

It might be time to second guess that dreaded task. Shoveling snow is actually great exercise, as you are working your arms to move the snow and your legs to lift. It really is a whole body workout. So grab your shovel and don’t be afraid to take ownership of this chore!

Like these ideas? Vote for your favourite activities on Participation’s “150 Playlist” to help get Canadians moving on the 150th birthday! Challenge yourself and your friends to participate in as many activities as possible through out the year and be entered to win amazing prizes such as a new car, or a trip to Whistler! Over 100 events will be taking place across Canada to give everyone a chance to stay active, and try some great activities. Make sure you vote now and help us change these stats!