Donde esta su nail gun? - Multi-Culturalism

South Florida CEO, Oct, 2002 by Tina Wingate

* Let's face it: Living in South Florida means you're bound to run into language barriers sooner or later. But it can be extra frustrating -- even dangerous -- on a construction site, where heavy machinery and wrecking balls are in use. Being able to say "Look out!" in English and Spanish should be a job requirement.

In any event, Shawn M. Tenefoss has written a handy, pocket-sized bilingual dictionary of terms commonly used on construction sites. Useful phrases in the book include "Puede traerme el martilla, por favor?' (Can you bring me the hammer please?) and, "Tiene us ted certificacion para las herramientas electricas?" (Are you certified to use power tools?) Sure hope so. Otherwise, you'll be running for el vendaje (the bandages) in no time. The book, published by Deerfield Beach-based Made E-Z Products, sells for $7 and is available at home improvement stores, paint stores and on the company's Web site www.madeE-Z.com.