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my-writings-and-musings · 2 years

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Still have brain fog, have some more indulgent Earthspark stuff. This one is Medic Agent!Reader patching up Megs after a fight, please enjoy!

The helicopter moved far too slowly for your exhausted patience, leading your foot to tap out a rapid fire rhythm of displeasure as you stewed while the pilot took his sweet time on the landing. A few frantic checks of your medical kit helped pass a few of the tortured moments more swiftly, but there was no helping your impatient anxiety. Nothing would make you feel better until you were at his side…

At long last, the hulking machine met the solid earth below, and you gave the door just enough time to open before hurtling through it.

The remains of a battlefield in what had once been an industrial facility stretched out before you, the glare of a dozen hazard lights casting shadows on the tangle of rubble and GHOST agents briefly disorienting you. Whatever fight had just gone down had been brutal and recent. The fires quite literally had not all been put out.

As soon as your head cleared your next dilemma became apparent in a fresh wave of frustration. You knew exactly who needed you most, but you hadn't a clue where to find him, and there wasn't a single officer on the ground waiting for you. This wasn't the first time you'd found your employer to be disorganized when it came to your patients…

"Dr. Y/N, over here!"

Your heart rate slowed at the sound of Lieutenant Malto's voice cutting through the chaos. If there was one other person who cared about the bots like you did, and was equally protective of even the biggest among them, it was her.

"Lieutenant Malto!" you greeted with obvious relief, speaking loudly to be heard over the din of military equipment on all sides. She didn't waste a moment of time, her hand beckoning you with a wave before she did an about face and started guiding you through the chaos.

"He's in the warehouse, it's mostly intact and the most private spot I could find." she explained, pointing to a sizable building that was notably less crowded than the others. While flattened entirely on one end, most of the structure was standing and solid, making it the best contender for an impromptu hospital.

"Is he doing alright?" you asked carefully, voice as low as could be as you walked by her side.

Lieutenant Malto made a face, and you found a little comfort in the fact she appeared more annoyed than concerned. "You know how he is. He won't give me a straight answer on how bad it is, he insists this can wait until we get back to headquarters, but there's a crater about the size of a basketball on his chest and I know he's hurting." she explained, pinching the bridge of her nose as she allowed herself a sigh of frustration. Arriving at the warped doorway flanked by two nervous looking guards, you didn't have to say a word before your medical badge and a warning look from Dorothy provided all the necessary explanations. The two of you were given immediate access through the crack in the massive sliding doors.

The noise of the outside was muffled considerably by the thick metal walls, allowing you to hear yourself think as you took in your surroundings. A few towering shelves of supplies had remained standing, but most had been toppled in the chaos, creating a web of smashed boxes and twisted metal. Lieutenant Malto led you through the mess, passing through what you could only describe as a cave of rubble before you entered a far more open space hidden away in the corner of the building. A massive figure hunkering down against the wall caught your eye even in the darkness. Scarlet optics came online as soon as the two of you entered the makeshift sanctuary, and their owner went from alert to annoyed when he recognized you both.

"Dorothy, I told you I didn't need a medic." Megatron sighed, not sounding too hurried for treatment. You didn't miss the way his hand carefully cupped the injury on his chest or how the glow of freshly spilled energon shone through his digits, but you kept that to yourself when Dorothy spoke up for you.

"Unfortunately enough for you, I have eyes." she said with her best "mom" voice, hands on her hips as she stared the big bot down. Megatron huffed and rolled his optics but didn't offer a rebuttal, his shoulders slumping from the exhaustion he was losing the ability to hide. Softening her stance, Dorothy sighed and gave him a look that was more pleading than demanding. "Now, stop being stubborn and let them help, alright?"

You smiled as the big mech conceded, his softness for his old friend matched only by how obviously displeased he was to be fussed over. Even in the low light you could see him pouting.

"I'll take it from here. Can you make sure we're not disturbed?" you asked, getting a nod from Lieutenant Malto before she fixed the big bot with a final look of warning. As intimidating as she was without needing to fire a single shot, you knew the two of you wouldn't have to worry about any unexpected visitors.

When you were alone with the big mech, you got right down to business, experienced enough to know where Ratchet would have wanted you to begin. You couldn't help wishing the far more experienced medic was with you instead of across the planet, but he had assured you and your superiors you were up to the task. Hopefully that was true...

"Lieutenant Malto mentioned a chest injury. How bad is it?"

"I'm doing quite well, actually. Don't know what all the fuss is about…" Megatron replied with a shrug and the faintest hint of a smirk, the former of which caused him visible discomfort when the injury fiercely protested the movement. Seeing pain across his face compelled you to speak more forcefully, and you briefly unshouldered your bag to start unpacking. A portable light flickered to life before casting deep shadows over your expression of concern.

"Megatron, please."

Either your concern or his promise to Dorothy got him to relent, and he removed his servo from his injury, failing to disguise his resulting wince of pain as a huff of annoyance. "Very well, here it is. Nothing I haven't endured in the past." he explained, gesturing to the hole that had been punched into the right side of his chassis.

"Help me up, if you can." you asked quickly, shouldering your portable medical kit and mounting your light to your shoulder. Despite all of his earlier resistance, he didn't hesitate to offer his servo for a lift. Your boldness actually seemed to amuse him, judging by how he was smiling in the most mischievous way whilst he lifted you to his chassis.

"Ratchet would be proud. You've learned his bedside manner as well as his methods." he teased, leaning back to give you a better view. You'd have retorted straight away, but the sight of the injury at eye level made your stomach twist. It was about the width of a basketball, as Dot had described, but deep and far from cleanly cut. How he could be so calm with such a wound was a mystery to you, but you kept that to yourself as you got back to business.

"After six months under his tutelage, I've learned he has some very valid reasons to be cranky." you replied whilst aiming your light at the injury. Under full illumination it looked even worse, and you were torn between sympathy for his pain and frustration at his delay to seek help. This was not something that could wait. You tried to make that readily apparent as you fixed him with a most displeased expression while snapping on a pair of gloves. "I'm looking at the biggest one."

"At least those tiny hands can't throw a wrench." he said with delight, smirking down at you. You knew the teasing was likely to help distract him from the pain, so you played along, working whilst keeping your rebuttals coming.

"No, but they're very good at finding all the places you're ticklish." you said whilst your fingertips carefully traced the edges of his injury. Your small size made it much easier to avoid hurting him as you did so, but you were still careful, only applying the tiniest hint of pressure to help you get a better idea as to the scope of the injury and what kind of intervention would be required. When you thankfully found no evidence of damage beyond the focal point, you turned your attention to the gaping hole in his chest. You noted with a mix of emotions that the opening was wider than your own head.

The faint hint of a glow from his spark briefly caught your eye, but the sight of a foreign piece of metal wedged in the depths of the wound was what truly got your attention. Amidst severed energon veins, a few sparking sensory wires, and the smooth workings of Cybertronian biology the darkly colored chunk of earth metal would have stood out even to the untrained eye. Your extensive training allowed you to grasp exactly how dangerous it was. Goodness, just a foot or two deeper…

"You've got a piece of shrapnel in here." you informed him, noting a touch of surprise and a fresh flash of annoyance on his face. Briefly marveling at his impossible level of pain tolerance, you tenderly traced the edges of the injury again, trying to consider your options. There were few without an actual operating room at your disposal. "I can put a seal on the wound and wait until we're back at base to remove it, but given the location I'm hesitant to leave anything in there. It's a bit too close to your spark."

Briefly mulling it over, he surprised you with a chuckle that he pretended didn't hurt before continuing his game. "Worried about me, are you?"

Despite your concern, you laughed along, realizing just how much of your frustration was in fact born from concern. It occurred to you that perhaps the game was more for your benefit than his own.

"You make it very difficult, but yes." you confirmed, looking back to the injury. Deeper concern twisted in your gut as you considered what to do next, knowing that anything near the spark was tricky business. It took a lot to keep the fear from your voice. "You can't self repair much with that in there. I have the tools to remove it-"

"Ah, go ahead and get it over with." he said, sounding displeased but not at all apprehensive. Somehow, his lack of hesitation only added to your own.

You'd assisted with plenty of extractions, bots got shrapnel embedded in their armor rather frequently, but you'd never overseen anything like this. Even if you knew what needed to be done, you were far from confident in your abilities. There were numerous risks, but worse; there was no way for you to avoid causing your friend a significant amount of pain. All of your apprehension came out in two simple words.

"It'll hurt."

He went quiet, compelling you to step back on his palm and look up to meet his optics. Megatron appeared surprised by the admission, but his gaze softened quickly, his tender smile returning as he lifted you to speak more directly.

"I can handle that, little healer." he promised, his rare use of your affectionate nickname revealing just how touched he'd been by your concern. "I trust you to pull out a splinter."

Apprehension still twisted in your gut, but you found yourself ready to face it at last, so long as you had his faith in you. "Okay, just give me a minute…"

Megatron returned you to your spot so you could work, holding you steady to ensure your accuracy. You opened your kit and went straight for the proper tools. A sizable pair of pliers and your shoulder mounted light were all you really needed, but you prepared an emergency vein cap in the unlikely event of a bleed, refusing to be caught off guard with the mech's safety on the line. The heavy tool weighed down your arm as you took a final stock of the injury. Knowing that removing the obstruction as smoothly as possible was key, you were moderately pleased to find a single pull would do the trick, provided you did it properly.

"Ready?" you asked when you ran out of reasons to delay.

Megatron tensed, his sizable frame preparing itself for a short but very unpleasant experience. You allowed the tension in his voice to steel your nerves.

"Very."

Hardly daring to breathe, you slipped your hand into the wound, grabbing hold of the warped metal and making sure the grip was ironclad. There would be no do-overs, and the slightest mistake could spell agony at best… Gathering yourself with a breath, you refused to let your fear keep him in pain a moment longer than necessary, and when a final check of your grip found it solid you knew it was time.

Megatron remained still as a single clean yank tore the shrapnel free, but you felt the agony reverberate through every inch of his frame, the raw power almost crackling as he hissed through clenched dentae. In the blink of an eye the metal went from lodged dangerously close to his spark to clenched firmly in your pliers, the sharpened edges dripping with fresh pink energon.

"I've got it! Are you okay?" you asked in a clumsy rush, dropping the tool quickly to check him for further distress. By the grace of rare fortune there wasn't a trace of trouble in the now clear injury.

"Better, actually." he sighed when the pain passed, his shoulders relaxing as the relief took its place. Spare hand testing the edges of the wound and finding it far less tender, he looked to you once again, gratitude apparent in the depths of his optics. "Ratchet would be proud."

"He'll only be proud if you survive. Let me apply a patch, and once we're back at headquarters I'll do some proper welding." you replied without missing a beat, pretending not to be dizzy from the lingering rush. Now more comfortable, Megatron had little trouble adjusting himself to receive the patch, and you pretended not to notice how his gaze had turned more affectionate than simply mindful. Covering the gaping wound with a pliable length of temporary mesh, you allowed yourself a moment to breathe a sigh of your own relief. He would be okay, that was all that really mattered.

Your hand lingered on the patch when it was finally in place, and you renewed the silent vow you'd made to yourself. Nothing would be taking him away from you, no matter how determined he may have been to be reckless, not as long as you had a say.

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euroartofficial · 23 days

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Fire Doors and Fire Exit Doors

Fire Door Standards and Legislative Requirements

Contrary to what some might believe, there is a difference between fire doors and fire exit doors.

Fire doors are inside buildings (residential and commercial) and are internal doors that need to be kept closed in order to stop the spread of fire between different areas of a building. In multiple occupancy buildings they are required to be fitted on the entrance to each individual dwelling, often leading into a communal hallway.

Fire exit doors are the final door on an emergency exit route that must lead to a place of safety.

There is an Approved Document guidance available from the Builders’ Hardware Industry Federation (BHIF) ‘Hardware for fire and escape doors. Issue 4 2012’ detailing the requirements for any fixtures and fittings used with fire doors and fire exit doors. As this is an ‘approved’ guidance, it sets out the minimum standards that would be considered compliant. This document gives very specific and technical detail on the construction and installation of fire doors, plus standards and legislative requirements for both fire doors and fire exit doors.

Additionally, to comply with The Equality Act 2010, fire and fire exit doors must take account of potential use of the doors by those who are disabled. This affects the width, weight, ease of use and access to and from the door.

Fire Doors

A fire door is more than just the door itself, it refers to the door, the fixings, the fitting, the ironmongery (latches, handles, etc.) and the frame. Fire doors should be compliant and tested to BS 476 Part 22 or to the European equivalent BS EN 1634-1. BS EN 13502-2, Fire classification of construction products and building elements sets the fire resistance classifications.

It is important to realise that door will only achieve this if fitted competently using the required components and frame. Compatible fixings will be listed on the certificate for the fire door and should be fitted by a competent expert.

Fire doors are fitted to the internal areas of a building in order to delay the spread of a fire and smoke from one area of a building to another thus allowing occupants to evacuate safely and to reduce the damage caused by fire and smoke..

Houses of multiple occupancy (HMO) are when houses are occupied by 5 or more people in 2 or more households, where householders lack or share bathrooms, toilets and cooking facilities. This type of property also includes:

Houses converted into bedsits or other non-self-contained accommodation.

Converted houses containing 1 or more flats.

Buildings converted entirely into self-contained flats if the conversion did not meet the standards of the 1991 Building Regulations and more than a third of the flats are let on short-term tenancies.

Flats above shops.

Certain types of sheltered housing.

Youth hostels.

There is a requirement in a HMO that fire doors are fitted internally to protect the escape route. This includes fitting a fire door to the entrance of each individual living area so that fire and smoke can be contained within the source area and not encroach onto communal escape routes.

The requirement for fire doors is also applicable to any residential property over two storeys under the Building Regulations 2010. There is an approved document outlining full fire safety requirements for dwellings available online “The Building Regulations 2010 Fire Safety Approved Document Volume 1”.

In communal hallways where there are different emergency escape routes to account for different fire locations, the fire doors should have a glazed panel for viewing and open both ways.

Fire doors are rated to indicate how long they can resist a fire and this is referred to as:

FIRE DOOR RATING

RATED TO WITHSTAND FOR SET PERIOD

FD30 or E30

30 minutes.

FD60 or E60

60 minutes.

FD90 or E90

90 minutes.

FD120 or E120

2 hours (120 mins).

Components of a Fire Door

A fire door is comprised of more than just the door itself. Any test ratings will refer to the “complete installed assemble” of the door, seals, frame and ironmongery. If any features of this assemble are altered, it can affect the effectiveness of the door and the fire rating. It is therefore essential that any incidentals such as seals and fixings are installed as per the requirements for each individual door as stated in the certification that accompanies it.

The components of a fire door need to be rated for use, installed competently and regularly inspected and maintained. They are as follows:

Main door, or “leaf“:

The door itself (also referred to as the “leaf” i.e. the part that opens and closes), needs to be in good condition without any damage e.g. dents, cracks, screw in hooks.

Have relevant testing and certification.

The leaf needs to fit snugly into the frame leaving the correct amount of gap between the leaf and the frame.

The correct fixings and ironmongery should be used.

The door should be rated appropriately to a minimum of FD30, or what is specified in any building/planning regulations depending on the use of the property.

Needs to be labelled as a fire door and that it should be kept shut.

Door Frame:

Needs to be compatible with the certified door leaf, should be tested and approved.

Be constructed of the correct materials and securely fixed in the doorway.

There should be no gaps between the frame and the opening and any that are there need to be filled with an approved material in order to maintain the integrity of the seal in a fire.

Door Closer:

All fire doors must have the fixings to self-close, either all the time with a door closer, or via magnetic or similar catches that will release when the fire alarm is sounded. According to BHIF “Compliance with BS EN 1155 and fire test evidence to BS EN 1634-1 or BS EN 1634-2 will be deemed to satisfy EU Construction Products Directive requirements in this regard, and it is therefore strongly recommended that proof of compliance be obtained for any electrically powered hold open device before it is specified or used”.

Must ensure that that the door can be opened and closed easily. The technical details are covered in BS EN 1935, annex E.

Seals:

The entire leaf must have the correct and compatible seals fitted around the entire leaf to create a snug fit to the door frame. These are often referred to as intumescent seals. However, not all are the same and those required in the door certification should be used and be rated to the same as the door e.g. FD30.

If smoke seals are fitted, they must fill the gap between the door frame and the door around all the edges of the door leaf. If these are fitted, or required to be fitted, the door rating will have an “S” at the end e.g. FD30 S.

A Threshold smoke seal must cover the whole gap when the door is closed and as with other fixings, must be for use with the specific door leaf it is fixed to.

Ironmongery:

The hinges must be designed for use with a fire door, attached with the correct fixings and, where required, have the correct intumescent pads. Hinges must be made of material that has a melting points of at least 800°C.

Hinges must be CE Marked to BS EN 1935 and certified by an approved body.

Need to be fixed in the correct positions.

There should be a minimum of three hinges to prevent warping during a fire.

Latches, strike plates and handles need to be suitable and compatible with the door, fitted in the right place with the correct intumescent seals. A thumb turn or latch operable with one hand in the inside of the door is needed to allow easy exit for evacuation.

Lever handles rather than knobs should be fitted for ease of use.

Letterboxes must be in the right location on the door, fitted competently and with the required intumescent sealing.

Glass panels:

These should only be factory fitted using safety glass that supports the fire rating for the door.

The glazing panel must be in the correct location and be compatible with the door leaf.

Learn everything you need to know about Fire Doors, Fire Exists, Extinguishers and Evacuation with the NEBOSH National Fire Certificate Course

Fire Exit Doors

The same requirements as above will apply to a fire exit door. There are also additional requirements where the door is the final exit point of a building:

The door should open in the direction of evacuation.

There should be no locks or catches. Many use a push bar system that will open the door when pressed down. If the door is also a secure entrance, the lock/catches must self-open when the fire alarm sounds.

The final fire exit door must lead to a place of safety.

It must have a self-closing mechanism so that the door will shut behind people evacuating in order to contain the fire and smoke. This will also limit the oxygen going in to the building which will feed a fire.

The signage will need mandatory fire exit signs that are illuminated. Situated above the door.

Legislation

The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, Regulation 14, gives the following requirement for emergency routes and exits:

“Where necessary in order to safeguard the safety of relevant persons, the responsible person must ensure that routes to emergency exits from premises and the exits themselves are kept clear at all times.

The following requirements must be complied with in respect of premises where necessary (whether due to the features of the premises, the activity carried on there, any hazard present or any other relevant circumstances) in order to safeguard the safety of relevant persons-

Emergency routes and exits must lead as directly as possible to a place of safety;

In the event of danger, it must be possible for persons to evacuate the premises as quickly and as safely as possible;

The number, distribution and dimensions of emergency routes and exits must be adequate having regard to the use, equipment and dimensions of the premises and the maximum number of persons who may be present there at any one time;

Emergency doors must open in the direction of escape;

Sliding or revolving doors must not be used for exits specifically intended as emergency exits;

Emergency doors must not be so locked or fastened that they cannot be easily and immediately opened by any person who may require to use them in an emergency;

Emergency routes and exits must be indicated by signs; and

Emergency routes and exits requiring illumination must be provided with emergency lighting of adequate intensity in the case of failure of their normal lighting.”

The “responsible person” is the landlord, employer, owner, and occupier. Anyone who uses or would require the use of the fire exit will have a responsibility to ensure that it remains clear, free from damage and that any contravention to this is reported to the employer, owner, occupier, landlord as soon as possible.

#door #hardware #door handle #hinges

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omar252525 · 1 month

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Vacation Rental Safety Tips: Ensuring a Secure and Enjoyable Stay

Planning a vacation can be an exciting endeavor, especially when opting for a vacation rental. It offers a more personalized experience compared to traditional hotels, often at a more affordable rate. However, amidst the thrill of planning your dream getaway, it's crucial not to overlook safety considerations. Ensuring a secure and enjoyable stay requires a bit of preparation and mindfulness. Here are some essential safety tips to keep in mind when booking and staying at a vacation rental:

Research Extensively: Before booking any vacation rental, thoroughly research the property, its location, and the surrounding neighborhood. Look for online reviews, check the property's security features, and assess its proximity to emergency services.

Verify the Legitimacy: Use reputable vacation rental websites or platforms with verified listings to minimize the risk of scams. Confirm the property's existence by checking multiple sources and never wire money to secure a booking unless you're certain of its legitimacy.

Communicate with the Host: Establish open communication with the host or property manager. Ask questions about security measures, emergency procedures, and any concerns you may have regarding the property's safety. A responsive and attentive host can provide valuable insights and assistance during your stay.

Inspect the Property Upon Arrival: Upon arrival, take some time to inspect the vacation rental for any safety hazards or issues. Check door and window locks, smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and outdoor lighting. Report any maintenance concerns to the host promptly.

Secure Your Belongings: Keep your valuables secure by utilizing the provided safe or locking mechanisms. Avoid leaving cash, jewelry, electronics, or other valuable items in plain sight. If the property doesn't have a safe, consider investing in a portable travel safe for added security.

Be Mindful of Your Surroundings: Familiarize yourself with the layout of the property, including emergency exits and evacuation routes. Stay vigilant and be aware of your surroundings, especially in unfamiliar environments. Report any suspicious activity to the host or local authorities immediately.

Follow Safety Guidelines: Adhere to any safety guidelines provided by the host, such as rules for using amenities like swimming pools, BBQ grills, or outdoor recreational areas. Use caution and common sense to prevent accidents or injuries during your stay.

Stay Connected: Ensure you have access to communication devices such as a mobile phone or Wi-Fi connection to contact emergency services or the host if needed. Keep important contact numbers, including local emergency services and the property manager, readily available.

Plan for Emergencies: Prepare for unexpected emergencies by familiarizing yourself with local emergency services, medical facilities, and evacuation procedures. Pack a basic first-aid kit and any necessary medications to address minor injuries or health issues.

Leave No Trace: Before checking out, tidy up the vacation rental and dispose of trash properly. Follow the host's instructions for key return and secure the property before departing. Leave the rental in the same condition as you found it to ensure a positive experience for future guests.

By incorporating these safety tips into your vacation rental experience, you can enjoy a secure and worry-free getaway. Remember to prioritize safety without compromising on the enjoyment of your vacation. With careful planning and attention to detail, your vacation rental stay can be both safe and memorable

#vacation rentals #vacation #travel

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safetymarktraining-blog · 1 month

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Green CSCS Card Test Tips:Pass your Exam

If you are serious about getting into construction, a Green CSCS card will open doors. It’s a nationally recognised qualification; with it, you’ll be able to get regular work with a good company.

When you are spending money and time investing in yourself and your future career, you want to know how you’ll pass the test. When you book a course with Safetymark, you’ll be glad to know that due to excellent study resources and trainers, we have a 90% pass rate. With the right preparation, you can increase your chances of passing on the first try. In this article, we’ll share some valuable tips and tricks to help you prepare for the Green CSCS card test and achieve your certification.

Understanding the Green CSCS Card Test

Before we dive into the tips and tricks, let’s review what the Green CSCS card test is all about. This exam is designed to evaluate your knowledge of health and safety in the construction industry. It includes 50 multiple-choice questions that cover a wide range of topics, such as:

Health and safety legislation

Hazard identification

Risk assessment and control

Manual handling

Working at height

Fire safety

Electrical safety

Construction site hazards

To pass the Green CSCS card test, you must score at least 45 out of 50 (90%). The exam is timed, and you’ll have 45 minutes to complete it. Now that you know what to expect, let’s get into the tips and tricks for preparing for the test.

Effective Study Techniques for the Green CSCS Card Test

Studying for any exam can be daunting, but you can use some practical techniques to make the process more manageable. Here are some tips for studying for the Green CSCS card test:

Use mock tests: Practice exams are an excellent way to familiarise yourself with the format of the test and the types of questions you’ll be asked. The great news is that with Safetymark, you can take free regularly updated mock tests. Every time you take the test, you’ll be learning on the way from your marked exam paper. This will allow you to improve your score until you are confident you can pass each time.

Study in short bursts: Instead of cramming for hours on end, try studying in short 20-30 minute bursts with breaks in between. This will help you retain information better and prevent burnout.

Choose the right style of course for you: The Safetymark Green CSCS card course is delivered as a self-paced e-learning course, or you may choose to attend a physical classroom. If you go down the physical classroom route, you’ll attend a one-day course and take your test at the end of the day. Courses are delivered by expert trainers, so if you prefer the more traditional method, this would be great for you.

Alternatively, take the self-paced course online at your leisure and take an online test when ready. Regardless of your chosen course style, you’ll get access to free learning materials and mock tests to practice.

Create a study schedule: Set aside dedicated study time each day or week leading up to the exam. Be realistic about how much time you can commit and stick to your schedule as much as possible. This is particularly important if you intend to attend a physical course.

No need to rush: If you are taking the self-paced e-learning course, wait until you are ready to take the exam. Use the mock tests to learn the content, and wait to take your test until you are sure you can confidently pass every time.

Important Topics to Review for the Green CSCS Card Test

While the Green CSCS card test covers a broad range of topics, there are some areas that are particularly important to focus on. Here are some topics to review as you prepare for the exam:

Health and safety legislation: Ensure you understand the key legislation governing health and safety in the construction industry, such as the Health and Safety at Work Act and the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations.

Hazard identification and risk assessment: You’ll need to demonstrate an understanding of how to identify hazards and assess their associated risks. This includes understanding the hierarchy of control measures and when to use them.

Manual handling: Manual handling is a common cause of injuries in the construction industry, so ensure you understand how to lift and move objects safely.

Working at height: Working at height is another high-risk activity in construction, so review the regulations and best practices for working safely at height.

Electrical and fire safety: This module will allow you to know how to tackle an emergency involving either fire or electricity and can keep you and your colleagues safe.

Common Mistakes to Avoid on the Green CSCS Card Test

Even if you’ve studied diligently for the Green CSCS card test, some common mistakes can trip you up on exam day. Here are a few to watch out for:

Not reading the questions carefully: Review each question carefully and ensure you understand what is being asked before answering. Some questions may have tricky wording, so take your time with them. Suppose you miss out the word NOT by not reading the question thoroughly. Then you’ll answer the question incorrectly, which is how people often lose marks, despite knowing the answer.

Not managing your time effectively: Time management is crucial, with only 45 minutes to complete the 50 questions in the exam. That gives you around 35 minutes or about 40 seconds per question. If you don’t know the answer after one minute, it’s time to pick your best option and move on.

Not using the process of elimination: If you need more clarification on an answer, try using the elimination method to narrow down your options. Eliminate any obviously incorrect answers first to increase your chances of getting the question right.

Not reviewing your study materials: Don’t assume you know everything just because you’ve studied. Review your study materials regularly leading up to the exam to keep the information fresh in your mind.

FAQs:

How many questions are on the Green CSCS card test?

There are 50 multiple-choice questions on the Green CSCS card test.

How long do I have to complete the exam?

You have 45 minutes to complete the Green CSCS card test.

What score do I need to pass the exam?

You must score at least 45 out of 50 (90%) to pass the Green CSCS card test.

Can I retake the exam if I fail?

Yes, you can retake the exam if you fail. However, you must wait at least 48 hours before retaking it.

Conclusion:

Preparing for the Green CSCS card test may seem daunting, but by using the right tips and being prepared, you are sure to pass with flying colours. Create a study schedule, use practice exams, and review important topics such as health and safety legislation, hazard identification, risk assessment, manual handling, and working at height.

Be aware of common mistakes to avoid, and take the time to read each question carefully and manage your time effectively. With these tips and tricks, you’ll be well on your way to achieving your Green CSCS card certification. Safetymark are here to get you working in your dream construction career. Take a mock test or book your course today. Best of luck!

#career #construction #talent #help #cscscard #greencard #cscsgreecard #constructiontraining #constructionsite #cscs #labourer #manager #safetymark

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nagarajseofreelancer · 3 months

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How to Choose Best Storage Spaces in Bangalore

Managing space in Bangalore, where life is constantly changing and space is valuable, requires choosing a suitable storage facility. Finding the best Bangalore storage space for business or personal use requires thought. The city, known for its vibrant culture and business scene, has many storage options. Each has unique qualities. This detailed guide covers five crucial factors when choosing the best storage spaces in Bangalore.

1. Location and accessibility:

The location of a storage facility is crucial to its usefulness. A conveniently located storage unit can make managing your belongings much more accessible. Consider how close the storage facility is to your home or business. This affects how much time and effort frequent trips require. Check the facility's accessibility by looking at transportation and road connections. Having a suitable storage space makes storing and finding things more accessible, saving time and money.

Choose a storage unit near significant roads or transport hubs in Bangalore, a busy city with traffic. It simplifies transporting goods to and from storage.

2. Safety Steps:

When choosing storage spaces in Bangalore, prioritise the safety and security of your items. Any big city, including Bangalore, can have security issues, so select secure facilities. Look for storage units with advanced access control, 24/7 surveillance, and on-site security. Security features like well-lit areas and locked doors prevent unauthorised entry.

Find out if the storage facility offers insurance for theft, fire, and natural disasters. Extra insurance gives you peace of mind and protects your finances in a disaster.

3. Storage unit size and shape:

The sizes and layouts of storage units are crucial to meeting your needs. Check the size and volume of your items before choosing a storage space. This test ensures your unit can hold everything without crowding or wasting space.

Fortunately, many Bangalore storage facilities have units of various sizes to satisfy a wide range of customers. You can customise your storage space by choosing from small units for personal items to larger ones for business inventory. Consider climate-controlled storage to store electronics, documents, or fragile furniture sensitive to temperature and humidity.

4. Cost and adaptability:

Cost is crucial when choosing storage spaces in Bangalore. Compare prices and services at different facilities. Some storage facilities charge flat rates, while others offer packing supplies, transportation, and loading and unloading assistance.

Know the storage arrangement's total cost and ensure it fits your budget. Compare prices based on how long you need to store items, as some storage facilities offer discounts for long-term contracts. Ask if the rental terms are flexible and the facility allows month-to-month contracts or only long-term leases. This lets you adapt storage to changing needs and circumstances.

5. Customer Reviews and Credibility:

In the digital age, customer reviews and a storage facility's reputation are helpful when choosing. Before choosing storage spaces in Bangalore, read customer reviews. Social media, online platforms, and word-of-mouth are great ways to assess facility performance and customer satisfaction.

Focus on reviews about the building's cleanliness, customer service, and security. Happy customer reviews indicate a well-run and reliable storage facility. Many negative reviews or security hole complaints should be a red flag.

Conclusion:

In Bangalore, a busy city, storage space demand keeps rising, so choosing a suitable facility is crucial. A storage space's suitability depends on location, safety, size, cost, and reputation. Reading customer reviews, doing a lot of research, and visiting potential storage facilities will ensure that the one you select meets your needs and provides a safe, easy storage experience in this busy city.

#storage spaces in bangalore #storage services in bangalore #storage in bangalore #storage facility bangalore

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rvmdigitals · 4 months

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The Value of Partnering with a Digital Marketing Agency

In today's highly digitized business landscape, every company needs to have a strong online presence and connect with customers through digital channels. An effective digital marketing strategy is essential, but often best implemented by working with specialists from an experienced agency. This article explores the key reasons teaming up with a digital marketing agency can benefit your business.

Build a Cohesive Multi-Channel Digital Strategy

An accomplished digital agency will evaluate your current marketing efforts, identify gaps and opportunities, and develop an integrated strategy across key channels like search marketing, social media marketing, paid advertising, content marketing, email marketing, and website optimization. They assemble a strategic blueprint optimized for your goals, target audience, and budget. Rather than a fragmented approach, you gain a focused game plan tailored specifically for driving more qualified traffic, leads and sales.

Access Top-Notch Expertise and Specialization

Digital marketing encompasses a vast array of constantly evolving disciplines like technical SEO, conversion rate optimization, paid search ads, Google Ads automated bidding, audience targeting, campaign analytics, and more. Keeping a business competitive in every area requires extensive specialized expertise and experience. An agency has all those competencies covered under one roof. Their team integrates seamlessly together to execute strategies expertly across all avenues.

Launch Initiatives Faster and More Efficiently

With niche expertise from an agency applying dedicated focus to managing core objectives, new campaigns and projects can ramp up much faster. You benefit from their in-depth processes, best practices and workflow efficiencies without large upfront costs of building comparable in-house capabilities. An agency gets your digital marketing firing on all cylinders faster so you see a rapid return on investment. Ongoing optimization also progresses quicker thanks to their wealth of analytics resources and market knowledge.

Gain an Objective External Perspective

An external agency provides an impartial, outsider viewpoint of your brand, analyzes current marketing performance objectively, spotlights existing blind spots and offers an honest assessment. Their strategic insights and recommendations steer clear of internal biases and politics. With past experience promoting many other brands, they also bring fresh ideas to the table that leverage an array of proven concepts.

Access Additional Bandwidth and Resources

Even large enterprises with considerable resources struggle to handle all aspects of digital marketing solely using in-house talent. Agencies maintain scalable teams and systems providing bandwidth and support. As workloads expand seasonally or due to new initiatives, they sustain momentum using added workforce and technology infrastructure. For small businesses, this scalability is particularly invaluable, saving the costs of hiring full-time expertise that goes underutilized.

Enhance Focus on Core Priorities

Managing digital marketing campaigns and upkeep is undeniably intensive, demanding heavy time investments constantly optimizing and creating new content. Handing these undertakings over to an agency alleviates that burden from your staff. It empowers leadership to double down on boosting essential business operations and better serve customers. Without spreading teams thin across too many objectives outside core competencies, businesses can focus on what they do best.

Conclusion

As today's increasingly digital marketplace raises the stakes for marketing capabilities, partnering with a specialized agency opens the door to enhanced talent, deeper insights and greater innovations. With an expert extension of your team overseeing critical digital initiatives, businesses can drive more online growth and fully leverage the potential of digital channels.

#digital marketing #digital marketing agency #digital marketing services #digital marketing agency in chennai #digital marketing company #digital marketing company in chennai

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trackidcard · 7 months

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Unlocking Excitement: Garena Shell Prices in Bangladesh

In the dynamic world of online gaming, Garena Shells have emerged as a digital currency that opens the door to a realm of thrilling experiences for gamers. As the demand for virtual goods and in-game enhancements continues to rise, the significance of Garena Shells in Bangladesh cannot be overstated.

Garena Shells serve as the official currency for various popular online games, including Free Fire, League of Legends, and more. Gamers in Bangladesh eagerly seek ways to enhance their gaming experience, and Garena Shells provide the means to unlock a multitude of in-game features, from character upgrades to exclusive items.

One of the key factors that gamers consider when diving into the world of Garena Shells is the pricing. The Garena Shell prices in Bangladesh are carefully curated to cater to a diverse gaming community, ensuring accessibility for both casual players and avid enthusiasts. The flexibility in denominations allows gamers to choose the amount of Garena Shells that best suits their needs and preferences.

In Bangladesh, Garena Shell prices are competitive, reflecting the commitment of the gaming community to providing an affordable and exciting gaming experience. Various online platforms and retailers offer Garena Shells at competitive rates, accompanied by exclusive promotions and discounts to make the digital currency even more appealing.

Furthermore, the convenience of purchasing Garena Shells in Bangladesh adds to the overall appeal. Gamers can acquire Garena Shells through multiple channels, including online platforms, mobile apps, and authorized retailers. This accessibility ensures that gamers can top up their Garena Shells at any time, allowing for a seamless and uninterrupted gaming experience.

The impact of Garena Shells on the gaming landscape in Bangladesh is undeniable. As the popularity of online gaming continues to surge, the demand for Garena Shells is expected to rise concurrently. The competitive pricing, accessibility, and the promise of enhanced gaming experiences make Garena Shells an integral part of the digital gaming ecosystem in Bangladesh, unlocking a world of excitement for gamers across the nation.

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masterbuildermercantile · 9 days

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Best Plumbing Supply Online | Master Builder Mercantile

Discover the best plumbing supply online at Master Builder Mercantile. Our extensive selection of top-quality plumbing products ensures you have everything you need for any project. Shop with confidence and enjoy competitive prices, fast shipping, and exceptional customer service. From pipes to fittings, find the best plumbing supplies online at Master Builder Mercantile, your one-stop shop for all plumbing needs. For more details click https://masterbuildermercantile.com/pages/plumbing

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apcorporation23 · 10 months

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How to Fuel Your Startup’s Growth Engine

Starting a business is like lighting a fire; it requires careful kindling and nurturing to keep it burning and growing. While the initial spark might be your brilliant idea, fueling your startup's growth engine is the real challenge. Here are some strategies to help your startup thrive and reach new heights.

1. Solidify Your Business Plan

Before you can fuel your startup's growth, you need a clear roadmap. Your business plan should outline your objectives, target market, value proposition, and financial projections. It's your blueprint for success and will help you stay on course as you grow.

2. Understand Your Market

To grow, you must understand your market inside and out. Conduct market research to identify trends, customer preferences, and your competition. Knowing what your audience wants and needs will help you tailor your products or services effectively.

3. Invest in Marketing

Marketing is the engine that drives growth. Develop a comprehensive marketing strategy that includes digital marketing, content marketing, social media, and search engine optimization (SEO). Consistent and targeted marketing efforts can significantly boost your visibility and customer base.

4. Build a Strong Online Presence

In today's digital age, your online presence is often the first interaction customers have with your brand. Invest in a professional website, create engaging content, and maintain active social media profiles. An appealing online presence not only attracts customers but also builds trust and credibility.

5. Focus on Customer Satisfaction

Satisfied customers become loyal advocates. Provide exceptional customer service and actively seek feedback. Use this feedback to refine your products or services continually. Happy customers are more likely to refer others and remain loyal in the long run.

6. Scale Thoughtfully

While rapid growth can be enticing, it can also lead to operational challenges. Ensure your infrastructure can support growth without compromising quality. Consider outsourcing non-core functions or investing in automation to streamline processes.

7. Raise Capital Wisely

Access to capital is crucial for growth, but it's equally important to manage it wisely. Seek funding when it's necessary, and have a clear plan for how you'll use the funds to drive growth. Be diligent about tracking expenses and revenue.

8. Network and Collaborate

Don't underestimate the power of networking. Building strong relationships with other businesses, mentors, and industry peers can open doors to opportunities and resources you might not have otherwise. Collaborative ventures can also help you reach a broader audience.

9. Embrace Innovation

Innovation is the lifeblood of a growing startup. Stay attuned to industry trends, invest in research and development, and encourage a culture of innovation within your team. Being open to change and new ideas can lead to breakthroughs that propel your business forward.

10. Monitor Key Metrics

Keep a close eye on key performance indicators (KPIs) that matter to your business. Metrics like customer acquisition cost, customer lifetime value, and churn rate can help you make data-driven decisions and adjust your strategies as needed.

Remember that growth is not always linear, and setbacks are part of the entrepreneurial journey. Adaptability and resilience are essential traits for startup founders. By implementing these strategies and remaining committed to your vision, you can effectively fuel your startup's growth engine and work toward long-term success. Keep the fire burning, and soon, your startup will blaze a trail of success in the business world.

#digital marketing #branding #content marketing #growth hacking

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weyrwolfen · 10 months

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Eidola: Chapter 01 - CT-6157 Helix

Rating: T

Characters: Gen, Clone Trooper OCs, Captain Rex, Ahsoka Tano, and other canon members of the 501st/332nd

Warnings: canon-typical violence; references to self-harm, injuries, and substance abuse; PTSD; it’s post-Order 66 and nobody is having a good time (but they’re all working on it)

Summary: The mission was never to bring down the Empire. Not really. The mission was to save every single one of their chipped brothers. But if doing do helped break the Empire’s stranglehold on the galaxy? Well, that was just a bonus.

“Pretty sure I’ve picked up a tail.”

Helix leaned over from his post by the boarded-up window and rapped his knuckles on the table, plastoid cracking sharply against the scuffed, metal surface. When Flick and Vault looked up from their game of sabacc, he tapped the side of his helmet, over one ear.

“Took you long enough. Description?”

“Human male. Blue coveralls, prosthetic left leg. Using the scrap cart for cover.”

Additional designation numbers started to appear in the lower left corner of Helix’s heads up display, Reapers coming online one sealed helmet at a time. Vault and Flick had both stood up from the pieces of rubble they’d been using as seats. The sabacc cards had disappeared somewhere under Vault’s decidedly un-regulation cloak, as had the small stack of credits that had been riding on the game. Tough break for Flick, as usual.

“Got him. Kriff, Clip, you really know how to pick ’em.”

“Figured he could use the credits.”

“No kidding.”

“Less chatter, more details, Dart,” said another voice, cutting across the comms chatter. Designation CT-6873 rolled to the top of the list, paired with the Republic cog designating the officer in charge of this mission. Ridge.

“Sorry, sir. Clip’s picked up a promising mark. Sloppy, definite civilian, about six blocks southwest of Reaper Two’s position and closing.”

“Your call Clip, should we expect company?”

“I’m feeling pretty solid on this one.”

“Alright. Team leaders, everything ready on your ends?”

“Reaper One, standing by,” Mimic said, his designation taking its turn at the top of Helix’s display.

One of these days, they’d figure out how to replace everyone’s numbers with their actual names, but being unable to access the military’s centralized backups made tinkering with their armors’ programming a risky proposition.

Helix pressed the button on his wrist comm to transmit and said, “Reaper two, ready and waiting.”

“Reaper Three, popping the seals on the stasis tanks now, sir,” said Shrike.

“You heard ‘em, Clip. Bring your new friend home to meet the family.”

Helix ducked out of Flick’s way and waved Vault over to help tip the heavy worktable on its side. It was the only piece of furniture remaining in the derelict building, and it probably had only escaped the looting of the rest of the neighborhood by virtue of how karking heavy it was. The chances they’d have to use it as cover from blaster fire were vanishingly small, but the Captain had drilled into every Reaper the need be working on plans C through H while executing plan A. Troopers who didn’t take that lesson to heart usually ended up cycled onto less dangerous mission teams.

Or dead.

“Three blocks,” Dart says over the comm channel. “Slow down, your buddy’s balking now that you’ve turned off the main drag.”

“Anything?” Helix asked, drawing his DH-16 and thumbing the selector switch from safe to stun.

“Nothing yet,” answered Flick, his own blaster already in hand. He had taken Helix’s previous position, covering the building’s only functional door and watching the street through the cracks in the badly patched window.

The little workshop had once had a small apartment attached to the back, but someone had taken it into their heads to bomb the local refinery during the war, and the surrounding neighborhood hadn’t survived the incident unscathed. Apparently the old facility hadn’t been worth the cost to repair in the interim, nor had the damaged homes and storefronts surrounding it.

Helix wasn’t about to complain though, not when the dilapidated, abandoned wreckage gave them so many options.

Vault had posted up next to a gap in one of the room’s collapsed walls. It’d be a tight fit in full armor, but the hole was well-concealed by some strategically shifted debris in the neighboring alley and could provide an alternate means of egress if things got dicey.

“Two blocks,” Dart says.

“I’ve got eyes on Clip,” Flick says across the open comm channel.

Everyone was tense. Waiting.

“One block.”

“Do you have a visual on the civilian?” Helix asked quietly.

Flick shifted, scanning the street as best he could through the rough slats. His left hand, the one not holding his blaster, flashed the sign for, “Not yet.”

The scuff of boot treads, and oddly enough, a soft chirping sound outside announced Clip’s arrival, even before Dart sent the confirmation.

“Clip’s new friend is hiding around the corner of that last side-alley. Reaper Two, he’s all yours.”

The door rattled, mostly for show. Someone must have pried out the locking mechanism years ago.

Flick signed, “Target in sight.”

Helix hand flashed a confirmation as the door swung open.

Clip stepped through the door, bringing with him a cascade of late afternoon sunlight and a woven haversack full of… something. Several somethings, from the sound of it, and all making little peeping sounds.

Everyone waited to react until the door swung closed, hiding them all from any unfriendly eyes.

Helix gestured at the bag and signed a quick interrogatory as Clip lowered the container to the floor, much to the apparent irritation of the haversack’s occupants.

“Food,” his fingers flashed. He pulled back his hood to reveal a slightly lopsided smirk on his face.

Ridge himself had given Clip a small bag of credits and instructed him to use his best judgement spending them while trolling the markets for a likely target. Food was a reasonable purchase, but Helix hadn’t been expecting anything so… lively.

Clip pulled back the flap from the top of the pack and gestured for Helix to look for himself.

Helix stepped forward and found several dozen sets of hatchling reptavian eyes looking back up at him. He only barely managed to stifle a startled bark of laughter.

Sure, yeah. Food.

“Mark’s on the move again,” Dart’s voice dragged them all back on task. “I’m in pursuit.”

Flick watched at the window for a long moment before finally looking back at the others and saying, “All clear.”

“Suit up,” Helix said to Clip, whose armor was neatly stacked against the wall, right where he had left it that morning. “Vault, we need your eyes up top.”

Vault picked up his blaster rifle, but he paused for a moment to look at the chirping sack. “What’s in the bag?”

Helix did snort then. “You heard Clip. It’s food,” he drawled.

“Right,” Vault said, dragging out the word in dubious sarcasm, but he did head back to the hole in the wall, twisting to maneuver his armor through the awkward space.

“You know Shrike’s going to hit the roof if those things get loose on his ship?” Helix felt obligated to say.

Clip had already shrugged out of his loose, concealing cloak and was unlacing the purloined set of civilian boots he’d been wearing over his dusty, black body glove. He just shrugged, tugging the first boot off and dropping it unceremoniously to the floor. “Kix has been after us to figure out a supplemental source of protein,” he said, unlacing the other boot. “Besides, the Commander will love them.”

And weren’t those just the magic words to dry up any additional complaints? Fact was, the Commander would love them, fresh meat being rather hard to come by in their line of work.

“You want me to carry those boots?” Flick asked dryly, still watching the street intently.

“Nah,” Clip said, pulling on his boots and greaves, latching them in place with something resembling relief. “Pretty sure they’ve given me blisters.”

The heavy tread of booted feet on the cracked roof sent a fine layer of dust down on their heads. “How’s the view up there?” Helix asked Vault over the comms.

“Beige,” came the grumbled reply. From the sound of things, he was settling down in the sniper’s nest they’d prepared overlooking the street.

“Let me know if that changes,” Helix said.

“Anybody got a spare ration bar?” Clip asked, tugging his cuirass over his shoulders. He had to stop awkwardly, half-way through the procedure though, when his modified comms system caught on the circuitry inside the plating. “And a wireless earpiece, maybe?”

Helix walked over and carefully released the trailing wires. “You should have let Pipes tape that mess down,” he said, tugging Clip’s armor into place.

“Easier to rip off this way,” Clip replied, snugging down his cuirass against his plackart and then starting on his vambraces and gauntlets. “Plus, I figure we need the medical tape more elsewhere.”

Well, he wasn’t wrong there either.

Helix waited until Clip had secured his remaining armor to his arms and buckled his utility belt and green-trimmed kama around his waist before handing over a wrapped ration bar.

Instead of eating it himself, as Helix had half-expected, Clip walked it over to the haversack and pulled out the first of two wire mesh cages by a crude, twisted handle.

“You’ve got to be kidding me,” Flick said, eyeing their new cargo for the first time.

“What?” Clip asked, setting the first cage on the floor before pulling out the second one as well. The little reptavians screeched. “They can survive off of just about anything, breed like swamp rats, and once they get older, they grill up nicely. I’m told their eggs are pretty decent eating too.” He crumbled up the ration bar and sprinkled the pieces over the two cages. True to his words, the tiny animals ravenously snapped up the processed nutrients.

Flick stared for a long moment, before finally shaking his head and turning back to look out of the window. “You’re explaining this to Ridge.”

“Sure thing,” Clip said cheerfully, straightening up and dusting his hands together to scatter the last few morsels of food. “On second thought, maybe do take the boots,” he said, looking over at Flick. “They’ll probably eat the leather too.”

Helix was retrieving his vibroblade from the improvised target on the workshop wall when Dart finally commed in with an update.

“Looks like we got somebody’s attention. There’s a troop of twenty-five stormtroopers and one uniformed officer heading your direction. ETA in twenty minutes.”

Clip’s low whistle pretty well summed up Helix’s feelings on the subject. Twenty-five stormtroopers. The biggest group they’d managed to pull previously was thirteen. Was the local commander just an unusually paranoid sort, or had the Imps finally put two and two together with the scattered uptick of clone deserters, unusual criminal activity, and outright kidnappings across the Outer Rim? There was no telling with their current intel, but the Captain wasn’t going to be happy, either way.

“Looks like we’re in for a party, boys,” Ridge said. “Reaper One is in position. Reaper Two?”

Helix slid his vibroblade back into its sheath, then lifted his wrist comm and said, “We’re all in place except me, sir, and I’m heading out right now.”

Clip tossed Helix the last of their rough-spun cloaks. It was an awkward fit over full armor, but under Hadros’s two waning moons, it’d provide at least a little camouflage. More than semi-reflective, white plastoid, at least.

“Reaper Three?”

“Engines are warming up as we speak.”

“Alright Dart, get back here on the double.”

“Already en route.”

“Reaper Two, you guys are our eyes out there. Let us know what you see.”

“Will do,” Helix said, then dropping his wrist and glancing over at Clip. “Try not to get shot.” Maybe that wasn’t the most rousing pep talk he could have selected, but the sentiment was sincere.

Clip’s teeth flashed bright green in Helix’s night vision. “I’ll do my best.”

Helix cuffed a hand against the ARC trooper’s under-armored shoulder. His pauldrons, like his helmet, were waiting for him with Reaper One in the ambush site. “Vault, any reason I can’t use the front door?”

“All clear.”

That made things easy enough. Helix shouldered his blaster rifle and ducked out into the abandoned street, easing the wooden door closed behind him. They’d plotted paths along the rooftops days ago, and his assigned vantage point was across the street, overlooking Clip’s current position and the approach to the bombed-out refinery.

He darted towards the door of the empty apartment building, sharply aware of how much he stood out in the dim blue light of the twin moons, but Vault had been correct. He didn’t see anyone for blocks in either direction. He hopped through a hole in the building’s wall, completely bypassing the front door, and skidded to the left, taking the stairs to the upper floors two at a time.

He slowed his pace, crouching low as he exited the stairs and entered what had been an open common area, unslinging his rifle as he reached his destination. He'd set out a little cover for himself the evening before, just a broken door, tilted over a crumbled section of wall. It was enough to lie under and disappear into the shadows.

“I’m in position,” he reported, flipping the scope on his blaster open and settling down to watch the street the incoming stormtroopers should be taking.

A figure appeared out of a patch of deeper darkness on the roof across the street and took off down the building at a quick jog: Vault, moving further up the planned route to his next vantage point. Flick was already overlooking the final approach to the refinery, having already delivered Clip’s ‘food’ to Reaper One just after sundown.

All the parts of the trap were in place, ready to spring.

They didn’t have long to wait.

Helix heard the stormtroopers before he saw them, synchronized boots, tramping through the dust. When they rounded the corner, coming fully into view, he switched on the open comm line, “Targets in sight, four blocks to the south. Clip, get ready to move on my signal.”

“Formation?” Clip asked.

“Three abreast, uniformed officer taking up the rear.”

Closer, closer. Helix looked at the officer through the scope of his blaster rifle, cross hairs centered on the man’s forehead. He was tall and thin, too pale and too angular to be familiar. Not a clone then.

Not one of Helix’s brothers.

“Three blocks away, officer at the rear is not one of us,” Helix whispered into his com, shifting his line of sight back to the front row of stormtroopers and easing his fingertip onto the blaster’s trigger. “Clip, move in five. Four. Three. Two.

“One.”

The wooden door swung open and Clip stepped out, hood down and face bare for anyone to see.

The troopers staggered to a halt, stunned at the abrupt development. For one, frozen heartbeat, Clip stood still, the perfect picture of an eopie in speeder lights.

In the next heartbeat, he was running, tearing off down the preordained path, followed by shouts and the rattle of blasters being brought up into firing position.

Helix waited for the covering shouts from the officer and the sizzle of blaster fire before slithering out from under his door and sprinting across the roof.

“They’re taking the bait,” Helix reported to the other teams. “Vault, take over.”

He was far enough from the edge that he shouldn’t be visible from street level, but that meant that he couldn’t watch the events unfolding below either. The mission was progressing entirely according to plan, but that fact didn’t blunt the razor-edged awareness of how spectacularly this could all go wrong in an instant. Their chipped brothers shot like droids, and the new recruits like headless nuna, but long, painful experience had taught him that all it would take was one lucky shot.

“Clip’s rounding the first turn,” Vault picked up where Helix had left off. “Reaper One, expect them to be coming in hot.”

Helix ran, sprinting across uneven rooftops and leaping over fallen debris that couldn’t be avoided. Vault’s running commentary was a constant presence in Helix’s ear.

“I’m coming up on your nine, Helix,” Dart’s number popped to the top of the HUD’s feed.

Helix spared a glance over his left shoulder, and sure enough, there was Dart, skipping awkwardly, arms out for balance, across a narrow board they had positioned to bridge a gap between buildings which was just a little too wide to jump. He jerked a nod in acknowledgement and kept running.

“Take over, Flick,” Vault said, right on schedule.

“Final approach is all clear, Clip,” Flick’s designation flickered in Helix’s vision.

The wall surrounding the refinery put Helix and Dart’s rooftop shortcut to an end. They skidded to a halt, securing their gear before leaning over the edge of the roof. There was a balcony jutting out over the street from the building’s second floor. Helix dropped down onto it first, Dart following quickly behind, the racket they were making largely unnoticeable against the hail of blaster fire a block away from their position.

They were inside the building, making their way down to the ground floor, when the sound of blaster fire outside died abruptly.

“Lost my visual on Clip,” Flick reported. “Reaper One, you guys have him?”

“We’ve got him,” Mimic replied. “What’s the word on our guests?”

“Lots of milling around and pointing going on, hold on,” Flick said, and in the ensuing silence, Helix noticed Clip’s designation number pop into place, indicating he’d reached his helmet and the rest of Reaper Team One. “Looks like they’re splitting into two groups. The officer’s staying outside with six candidates. Everyone else is advancing.”

Helix raised his wrist comm to his mouth and said, “We’re closing in on your position,” right before he and Dart slipped out of the building and sprinted across the street to a patch of deeper shadow.

“I see you,” Vault replied. “You should be good on your current approach. The main group is entering the refinery now. Of the seven staying put outside, only one is watching their six.”

Better and better. Helix ran his thumb over the selector as he ran, making absolutely sure by feel alone that it was in the stun position. They were close.

Flick said. “Vault, you’re in the best position to drop the officer.”

“Already got a bead on him,” Vault replied.

Mimic’s designation scrolled to the top of Helix’s HUD, partnered with a series of clicks that meant, ‘Team One, on my signal.’

Dart slipped in front of Helix as they neared the corner of the building around which their targets were waiting.

A rapid-fire series of clicks came across Helix’s headset, immediately followed by the muffled sound of blaster fire erupted again, muffled by the refinery’s walls. The pitch was different, slightly lower in register. The group of stormtroopers in the refinery had clearly wandered into Mimic’s kill box. Except that wasn’t really the right name for it. Stun box, maybe?

Dart put his shoulder against the wall at the building’s corner, and Helix fell in line behind him, blaster angled low against the wall. Helix transmitted his own set of ‘in position’ clicks to his team, and then placed his right hand between Dart’s shoulder blades.

“Alright, on my shot,” Vault said.

Dart glanced at Helix over his shoulder and jerked his helmet in a quick nod that needed no formal translation. ‘See you on the other side,’ it said.

Vault’s blaster shot cut through the relative quiet. It was followed by a commotion of startled shouts and a peppering of blaster fire sent, apparently without much thought to aiming, down the empty street next to Helix and Dart’s position.

Time seemed to slow to a crawl, an artifact of the clones’ training, or the Kaminoans genetic tinkering, or maybe just instinctive human reflex in the face of mortal peril.

Dart pushed himself away from the wall, extending his arm to measure the distance he would need to allow his rifle to clear the corner. Helix shuffled behind him, his hand never leaving Dart’s back.

The blaster fire didn’t cease, but abruptly none of the new shots were whizzing past the corner concealing the two clones.

Flick had started firing.

Two pats in the middle of Dart’s back, hard enough to be felt through plastoid, were the signal to move. Dart ducked out of concealment first, dropping to a knee and immediately firing. Helix was an instant behind him, still standing, his HUD’s targeting system picking out potential marks.

There weren’t many left.

Helix stunned one stormtrooper and started to swing his blaster rifle to target the last one standing when the man was hit from two different angles by blue rings of light.

The entire exchange had lasted just a few seconds.

Time stuttered back up to pace.

Helix stepped further out into the street, clearing the way for Dart to stand up as well. Together, they advanced on the fallen group, blasters still up and ready to fire at a moment’s notice if any of the stormtroopers so much as twitched.

None of them did.

Vault’s blaster shot had caught the officer in the back of his head. The man had been dead before he had hit the ground. The remaining stormtroopers were all stunned, an unconscious tangle of limbs and blasters.

Helix lifted his wrist comm to his mouth. “Reaper Two is clear,” he reported.

The blaster fire from inside the refinery continued for at least half a minute more before it too fell silent.

“Reaper One is clear,” Mimic announced over the comms. “Bring ‘em inside, Reaper Two. Let’s see what we’ve harvested.”

Dart went ahead and slung his rifle across his back, grabbed the first stormtrooper by the wrists, and started dragging the man towards the refinery’s wrecked front gate. Helix waited until Flick and Vault had rejoined them at street level before grabbing the next fallen stormtrooper.

It took them two trips to get everyone inside. They left the officer for last.

The members of Reaper Team One were already pulling helmet after helmet from the unconscious bodies, silently sorting wheat from chaff. Helix and Flick dropped the officer’s body in the growing line of Imperials, but it was the other group that drew his immediate attention.

There were five clones lined up near the magnetic rail line that had once carried raw ore into the main building to be refined. Chipped still, yes, but brothers.

Five. And they weren’t done sorting.

They’d typically count it as a highly successful mission if they managed to bring home two clones.

Helix wasn’t the only one who was staring instead of getting on with the work of stripping weapons and other useful tech from the Imps. Even as he stood, transfixed, two Reaper One team members carried a sixth clone over, gently lowering their brother at the end of the row.

Six.

Ridge had taken a knee next to one of their unconscious brothers, orange-painted helmet tucked under one arm. The clone in front of him had an elaborate tattoo: symmetrical, geometric patterns covered his chin and marched up either side of his jaw line, continuing down his neck to disappear into the high collar of his body suit.

“What’s his number?” Ridge asked Tanner, who had plugged a datapad into the clone’s helmet to download any information it held, including the designation of its owner.

“CT-7261,” Tanner replied, scrolling down the readout of the pad.

“Link,” Ridge said, sounding as if he was confirming something he had already known.

Mimic, who had stepped up behind Ridge during the exchange, asked quietly, “Are all of them from the 501st?”

Ridge stood, looking down the row of unconscious bodies. “I think so,” he said.

Oh. Oh kriff.

None of them had escaped Order 66 unscathed, but some had had it worse than others. The 501st was up there with the worst. Being forced to turn on your own jedi was bad enough, but killing kids? Mowing down room after room of defenseless younglings? Helix had his own demons from before his chip had been removed, before his brothers had freed him, but at least he didn’t have that on his conscience.

“Gonna be kind of tight quarters,” Vault said, walking up to stand next to Helix. “If we stick with our usual decoy protocols.”

Helix snorted, trading one set of dark thoughts for another. Standing orders dictated that they should take two Imp bodies for every rescued brother, to conceal the real reason for the disappearances. There was no way they could fit that many bodies in their stasis chamber, and bunking down with dead Imps wasn’t anybody’s idea of a good time.

They’d do it though. Their missions were too important to compromise on account of anybody’s delicate sensibilities. Besides, they wouldn’t have to hold on to the extras for long, they could always space the spares in the vast emptiness between stars.

“Come on,” Helix said, dragging himself away from the tableau of their rescued brothers. “Nobody’s going anywhere until we finish the job here.”

Flick and Clip, who had lost his ragged cloak and regained his pauldrons along with his helmet, were unloading one of the crates, stacking a motley collection of items on the ground next to the skimmer. It looked like the salvage teams had really outdone themselves this time. There were numerous blasters, the kind of cheap garbage pirates loved and troopers disdained. There were also a few crushed cans sporting the logo of a popular Mandalorian energy drink, an Ithorian translator, some kind of beaded sash, a bag full of half-smoked death sticks, a bundle of cheap vibroblades, and not one, but two camtonos of tainted spice.

They had to make room for Ash and Ricochet, from Reaper Team Three, who were unloading the two dead Imps which had been stored in the ship’s stasis chamber since the last mission. Between those distinctly out-of-place bodies and the bizarre mixture of evidence they were about to plant, the local Imp investigators would hopefully be puzzling over the scene for a good long while.

Sorting through the items and arranging them around the refinery’s main floor provided ample distraction from the scene unfolding behind them. Half of Reaper Team One was gathered around the line of stunned Imps, stripping the bodies of weapons, armor, and any other useful tech they had about their persons. Then, one of them would shoot two blaster bolts into the Imp’s head and the group would then move on to the next body in line.

It wasn’t clean work by anyone’s estimation, and it was one of the main reasons for the high turnover in the Reaper teams, but without a system of courts and jails to fall back on, what else could they do? They couldn’t leave any witnesses, they couldn’t take prisoners, and the bodies would serve as much-needed distractions both here and on their future missions. It was necessary, even if it wasn’t honorable.

At least none of the Imps were awake to see the blasts coming.

They were quick about their work, and within the half hour, two heavily overladen skimmers set off back down the access tunnel, towards the abandoned bauxite mine, where Shrike and the rest of Reaper Team Three were waiting to fly them all to the rendezvous point in the asteroid belt beyond Hadros’s orbit.

Helix and Flick were perched precariously on top of one of the crates of freshly acquired equipment, freeing up just a little more room for their more precious cargo. Ridge was across from them, standing watch with blaster in hand. The painting of the Commander’s facial markings gave his helmet an uncanny facsimile of a grave expression as the Reapers kept vigil.

Eight chipped brothers, all from the Commander’s and Captain’s old legion, lay in the floor of the skimmer between them.

AN: Other chapters are available here

Dividers by freesia-writes using helmets by lornaka. More designs available here.

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