Obtaining the A-35 Certification from FDNY

The safety supervisor and coordinator for B&V Contracting in New York, Vincent Poggioreale provides safety equipment to workers at construction sites, leads site safety meetings, and ensures work is done safely. To assist him in this, Vincent Poggioreale holds several certifications, including a certificate of fitness to operate and maintain air compressors (A-35) in New York City.

A permit required by the New York City Fire Department (FDNY), A-35 allows a person to operate any air compressor that compresses gas above 100 pounds per square inch (psi). This gas must be non-flammable, and includes air. Within the state, a certification is required for operating these machines, with the exception of outdoor air compressors. However, outdoor compressors must still be operated by or under the supervision of an A-35-certified individual.

To earn A-35 certification, individuals who are 18 years or older must first apply to the FDNY Public Certification Unit. Applying for the certification is done in person and requires that applicants arrive at the unit ready to submit their applications and any supporting documents. Such documents include two forms of identification and a letter of recommendation from an employer.

After submitting these documents and paying the application fee, applicants then take the necessary written examination. This exam consists of 20 multiple-choice questions relating to the operation and maintenance of air compressors. Upon passing the exam, individuals are immediately issued their certificates of fitness. This certification must be renewed every 3 years.

Vincent Poggioreale's Black Sabbath Playlist

Tips for Displaying Your Car at a Car Show

Vincent Poggioreale is a safety and supervisor coordinator at New York-based B & V Contracting, working on multiple projects across the greater New York area. When he is not working, Vincent Poggioreale has a passion for cars and has entered his customized cars into multiple car shows all over the East Coast.

Car shows are a fun activity for car enthusiasts and feature a wide variety of activities for the entire family. Whether you are entering into a car show hoping to win a prize or trophy or you are simply doing it for fun to impress your audience, the following are key tips to help you have the best experience irrespective of whether it’s your first time or you’ve participated multiple times in car competitions:

1. Pay close attention to tires because it is essential to have beautiful tires as they attract the eye of the judges. Tires should be well sized and have an excellent tread to boost the chances of good appearance and better scores. Car show participants often have a spare set of tires specifically used for contests.

2. Park your car under shade if possible. Even though car show associates often show you where to park, arriving several hours earlier before the show begins guarantees you a good parking spot. People spent more time looking at cars parked under the shade because it’s cooler and the shade also keeps your car cool.

3. Use props as a fun, interesting, and creative way to attract more people to view your car. Attendees love checking out creative drivers but you should be careful not to overuse props as they will distract car viewers. Also, avoid violent and hateful props and only use family-friendly props that parents can allow the children to see.