The end of the year can bring a whirlwind of last-minute tasks and tying up loose ends. Defense contractors also faced a deadline of December 31, 2017 to comply with new NIST requirements for securing data. As your DoD equipment supplier, we want to make sure you’re kept abreast of major defense contractor news.

What Is the NIST 7012 Rule?

The DoD updated the security requirements for defense-related information on or passing through your computer or network. This was covered in the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement clause 252.204-7012. Unclassified information must now meet higher security standards than in the past.

The -7012 clause covers such unclassified info labeled as Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI). Such information may have been supplied as part of the contract paperwork, or transmitted during fulfillment of the contract.

Notably, the -7012 security standards apply to subcontractors as well as prime contractors.

The revised rules also call for “Cyber Incident Reporting” for any cyber threats, data breaches, identified weaknesses, etc. All contractors must report cyber incidents to the DoD, and inform their higher-up contractors.

What if I Missed the NIST Security Deadline?

If your firm does not comply with -7012 as of now, you are prevented from securing new defense contracts. Any ongoing contracts are potentially affected as well, with negative evaluations or cancellations being possible.

DoD Contractor Equipment for Better Operations

If you need to tighten up operations for better efficiency and productivity, your DoD equipment supplier specialists at DJ Products can help. Material handling equipment such as our TrailerCaddy powered dolly, BombCaddy remote-controlled power trailer, and other GSA-approved tools can help move vehicles, trailers, machinery, and more.

Contact DJ Products to request more info about material handling equipment from your DoD equipment supplier today.

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Is your warehouse prepared for the challenges of winter weather? Using proper material handling equipment is only part of the equation. Follow these tips to keep your workplace accident-free through the season.

1. Enforce an Appropriate “Dress Code”

It can be costly and difficult to heat a spacious warehouse, especially loading docks and other areas exposed to the outdoors. Employees should wear sweatshirts, coats and boots as well as accessories such as hats, gloves and thick socks.

Dressing in layers lets employees add and remove clothing as the temperatures dictate. Make sure draw strings, scarves and other items that can get caught in machinery are safely tucked away.

2. Stay Hydrated

Employees may be less likely to drink water when temperatures are low, but they still need to replenish electrolytes that are lost during physical activity. Have a ready supply of water on hand and let employees take frequent water breaks.

3. Stretch Regularly

Muscles tend to contract in cold weather, which increases vulnerability to strains and other injuries. Post information about effective stretching techniques and have employees stretch thoroughly before moving heavy objects.

4. Keep Floors and Workspaces Dry

It’s inevitable that moisture will be tracked in as employees come in and out.

– Keep outdoor walkways clear of snow and ice.

– Mop doorways and other damp areas before they become a problem.

– Use no-slip mats and “Wet Floor” signs to promote awareness of potential hazards.

DJ Products: Material Handling Equipment for All Seasons

DJ Products offers a full line of material handling equipment that improves workplace safety during any time of the year. Visit our website to learn more about our popular CartCaddyLite and other battery-powered material handling solutions.

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With his recent signing of a defense policy bill, President Donald Trump is attempting to make good on his campaign promise for a stronger military. The question remains whether Congress will free up the purse strings that stand in the way of Trump’s mission.

As your full-service GSA material handling equipment supplier, DJ Products offers a closer look at what this means for the upcoming year.

Will Trump’s Wish Become Reality?

Trump’s initial budget proposal in 2017 called for a base amount of $603 billion for defense spending. Critics argued that it wasn’t nearly enough to fund the military buildup that had been one of Trump’s major campaign promises.

The National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which Trump signed in early December, seemingly addresses the discrepancy by authorizing nearly $700 billion.

– $626.4 billion forms the base military budget

– $65.7 billion is allocated for the Overseas Contingency Operations (OCO) war fund

The bill faces a huge roadblock in the form of the Budget Control Act of 2011. That bill caps the base defense budget for 2018 at $549 billion, which is significantly less than the total of the NDAA.

Turn to DJ Products for Your Material Handling Needs

Are you a DoD contractor looking for safer solutions to your material handling requirements? Visit our website to learn why DJ Products is your top choice for a GSA material handling equipment supplier.

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