SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Policies)	12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2014
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Revenue Recognition	Revenue Recognition: ISA records revenue for its recycling and equipment sales divisions upon delivery of the related materials and equipment to the customer. We provide installation and training on all equipment and we charge these costs to the customer, recording revenue in the period we provide the service. We are the middleman in the sale of the equipment and not a manufacturer. Any warranty is the responsibility of the manufacturer and therefore we make no estimates for warranty obligations. Allowances for equipment returns are made on a case-by-case basis. Historically, returns of equipment have not been material. Our management services group provides our customers with evaluation, management, monitoring, auditing and cost reduction consulting of our customers’ non-hazardous solid waste removal activities. We recognize revenue related to the management aspects of these services when we deliver the services. We record revenue related to this activity on a gross basis because we are ultimately responsible for service delivery, have discretion over the selection of the specific service provided and the amounts to be charged, and are directly obligated to the subcontractor for the services provided. We are an independent contractor. If we discover that third party service providers have not performed, either by auditing of the service provider invoices or communications from our customers, we then resolve the service delivery dispute directly with the third party service supplier. Revenue from equipment rental is recognized monthly as earned.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments	Fair Value of Financial Instruments: We estimate the fair value of our financial instruments using relevant market information and other assumptions. Fair value estimates involve uncertainties and matters of significant judgment regarding interest rates, prepayments and other factors. Changes in assumptions or market conditions could significantly affect these estimates. As of December 31, 2014, the estimated fair value of our debt instruments approximated book value. The fair value of our debt approximates its carrying value because the majority of our debt bears a floating rate of interest based on the LIBOR rate. There is no readily available market by which to determine fair value of our fixed term debt; however, based on existing interest rates and prevailing rates as of each year end, we have determined that the fair value of our fixed rate debt approximates book value. We carry certain of our financial assets and liabilities at fair value on a recurring basis. These financial assets and liabilities are composed of cash and cash equivalents and derivative instruments. Long-term debt is carried at cost, and the fair value is disclosed herein. In addition, we measure certain assets, such as goodwill and other long-lived assets, at fair value on a non-recurring basis to evaluate those assets for potential impairment. Fair value is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. In accordance with applicable accounting standards, we categorize our financial assets and liabilities into the following fair value hierarchy: Level 1 – Financial assets and liabilities with values based on unadjusted quoted prices for identical assets or liabilities in an active market. Examples of level 1 financial instruments include active exchange-traded securities. Level 2 – Financial assets and liabilities with values based on quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets, and inputs that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly, for substantially the full term of the asset or liability. Examples of level 2 financial instruments include commercial paper purchased from the State Street-administered asset-backed commercial paper conduits, various types of interest-rate and commodity-based derivative instruments, and various types of fixed-income investment securities. Pricing models are utilized to estimate fair value for certain financial assets and liabilities categorized in level 2. Level 3 – Financial assets and liabilities with values based on prices or valuation techniques that require inputs that are both unobservable in the market and significant to the overall fair value measurement. These inputs reflect management’s judgment about the assumptions that a market participant would use in pricing the asset or liability, and are based on the best available information, some of which is internally developed. Examples of level 3 financial instruments include certain corporate debt with little or no market activity and a resulting lack of price transparency. When determining the fair value measurements for financial assets and liabilities carried at fair value on a recurring basis, we consider the principal or most advantageous market in which we would transact and consider assumptions that market participants would use when pricing the asset or liability. When possible, we look to active and observable markets to price identical assets or liabilities. When identical assets and liabilities are not traded in active markets, we look to market observable data for similar assets and liabilities. Nevertheless, certain assets and liabilities are not actively traded in observable markets, and we use alternative valuation techniques to derive fair value measurements. We use the fair value methodology outlined in the related accounting standard to value the assets and liabilities for cash, debt and derivatives. All of our cash is defined as Level 1 and all our debt and derivative contracts are defined as Level 2.
Estimates	Estimates: In preparing the consolidated financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America ("GAAP"), management must make estimates and assumptions. These estimates and assumptions affect the amounts reported for assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses, as well as affecting the disclosures provided. Examples of estimates include the allowance for doubtful accounts, estimates associated with goodwill and intangibles impairment tests, estimates of realizability of deferred income tax assets and liabilities, estimates of inventory balances and values, and estimates of stock option and warrant values. The Company also uses estimates when assessing fair values of assets and liabilities acquired in business acquisitions as well as any fair value and any related impairment charges related to the carrying value of inventory and machinery and equipment, and other long-lived assets. Despite the Company’s intention to establish accurate estimates and use reasonable assumptions, actual results may differ from these estimates.
Principles of Consolidation	Principles of Consolidation: The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its wholly-owned subsidiaries. Upon consolidation, all inter-company accounts, transactions and profits have been eliminated.
Reclassifications	Reclassifications: We have reclassified certain income statement items within the accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements and Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for the prior years and prior quarters in order to be comparable with the current presentation. These reclassifications had no effect on previously reported net loss or shareholders' equity.
Cash and Cash Equivalents	Cash and Cash Equivalents: Cash and cash equivalents includes cash in banks with original maturities of three months or less. Cash and cash equivalents are stated at cost which approximates fair value, which in the opinion of management, are subject to an insignificant risk of loss in value. The Company maintains cash balances in excess of federally insured limits.
Accounts Receivable and Allowance for Doubtful Accounts	Accounts Receivable and Allowance for Doubtful Accounts: Accounts receivable consists primarily of amounts due from customers from product and brokered sales. The allowance for doubtful accounts totaled $100.0 thousand at December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013. Our determination of the allowance for doubtful accounts includes a number of factors, including the age of the balance, estimated settlement adjustments, past experience with the customer account, changes in collection patterns and general economic and industry conditions. Interest is not normally charged on receivables nor do we normally require collateral for receivables. Potential credit losses from our significant customers could adversely affect our results of operations or financial condition. While we believe our allowance for doubtful accounts is adequate, changes in economic conditions or any weakness in the steel and metals industry could adversely impact our future earnings. In general, we consider accounts receivable past due which are 30 to 60 days after the invoice date. We charge off losses to the allowance when we deem further collection efforts will not provide additional recoveries.
Major Customer	Major Customer: North American Stainless ("NAS") is a major customer in Recycling. Sales to NAS equaled 13.3% of our consolidated revenue in 2014, and 37.5% of our consolidated revenue in 2013.
Inventories	Inventory also includes all types of industrial waste handling equipment and machinery held for resale such as compactors, balers, and containers, which are valued based on cost. Replacement parts included in inventory are depreciated over a one-year life and are used by the Company within the one-year period as these parts wear out quickly due to the high-volume and intensity of the shredder function. Other inventory includes fuel and baling wire. Some commodities are in saleable condition at acquisition. We purchase these commodities in small amounts until we have a truckload of material available for shipment. Some commodities are not in saleable condition at acquisition. These commodities must be torched, shredded or baled. We do not have work-in-process inventory that needs to be manufactured to become finished goods. We include processing costs in inventory for all commodities by gross ton. Inventories: Our inventories primarily consist of ferrous and non-ferrous scrap metals, including stainless steel, and are valued at the lower of average purchased cost or market based on the specific scrap commodity. Quantities of inventories are determined based on our inventory systems and are subject to periodic physical verification using estimation techniques including observation, weighing and other industry methods. We recognize inventory impairment when the market value, based upon current market pricing, falls below recorded value or when the estimated volume is less than the recorded volume of inventory. We record the loss in cost of sales in the period during which we identified the loss. We make certain assumptions regarding future demand and net realizable value in order to assess whether inventory is properly recorded at the lower of cost or market. We base our assumptions on historical experience, current market conditions and current replacement costs. If the anticipated future selling prices of scrap metal and finished steel products should decline, we would re-assess the recorded net realizable value ("NRV") of our inventory and make any adjustments we feel necessary in order to reduce the value of our inventory (and increase cost of sales) to the lower of cost or market.
Property and Equipment	Property and Equipment: Property and equipment are stated at cost and depreciated on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of the related property. A typical term of our rental equipment leases is five years. The revenue stream is based on monthly usage and recognized in the month of usage. We record purchased rental equipment, including all installation and freight charges, as a fixed asset. We are typically responsible for all repairs and maintenance expenses on rental equipment.
Factoring Fees and Certain Banking Expenses	Factoring Fees and Certain Banking Expenses: We have included factoring fees and certain banking expenses relating to our loans and loan restructuring within interest expense. The loan fees amortization totaled $72.9 thousand and $301.5 thousand for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. We had entered into factoring agreements with various European financial institutions to sell our accounts receivable under non-recourse agreements. These transactions are treated as a sale and were accounted for as a reduction in accounts receivable because the agreements transfer effective control and risk related to the receivables to the buyers. Thus, cash proceeds from these arrangements are reflected in the change of accounts receivable in our statements of cash flows each period. We do not service any factored accounts after the factoring has occurred. We do not have any servicing assets or liabilities. We had utilized factoring arrangements as an integral part of our financing for working capital. The aggregate gross amount factored under these facilities was $0.0 million and $31.9 million for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. Our loss on these transactions, the cost of factoring such accounts receivable, is reflected in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations as interest expense with other financing costs. The cost of factoring such accounts receivable for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 was $0.0 thousand and $121.6 thousand, respectively.
Shipping and Handling Cost Fees and Costs	Shipping and Handling Fees and Costs: Shipping and handling charges incurred by the Company are included in cost of sales and shipping charges billed to the customer are included in revenues in the accompanying consolidated statements of income.
Advertising Expense	Advertising Expense: Advertising costs are charged to expense in the period the costs are incurred.
Derivative and Hedging Activities	Derivative and Hedging Activities: We are exposed to market risk stemming from changes in metal commodity prices, and interest rates. In the normal course of business, we actively manage our exposure to these market risks by entering into various hedging transactions, authorized under established policies that place clear controls on these activities. Derivative financial instruments currently used by us consist of interest rate swap contracts. Derivative financial instruments are accounted for under the provisions of the FASB's authoritative guidance titled “ASC 815 - Derivative and Hedging.” Under these standards, derivatives are carried on the balance sheet at fair value. Our interest rate swaps are designated as a cash flow hedge, and the effective portions of changes in the fair value of the derivatives are recorded as a component of other comprehensive income or loss and are recognized in the statement of operations when the hedged item affects earnings. Ineffective portions of changes in the fair value of cash flow hedges are recognized in gain or loss on derivative liabilities. Cash flows related to derivatives are included in operating activities. We do not enter into any interest rate swap derivative instruments for trading purposes. We recognize as an adjustment to interest expense the differential paid or received on interest rate swaps. We include in other comprehensive income the change in the fair value of the interest rate swap, which is established as an effective hedge. We include the required disclosures for interest rate swaps in Note 4 – “Long Term Debt and Notes Payable to Bank” of our Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. During 2014 and 2013, we did not use derivative instruments in the form of commodity hedges to assist in managing our commodity price risk. We do not enter into any commodity hedges for trading purposes.
Income Taxes	Income Taxes: Deferred income taxes are recorded to recognize the tax consequences on future years of differences between the tax basis of assets and liabilities and their carrying amounts for financial reporting purposes, referred to as “temporary differences,” and for net operating loss carry-forwards subject to an ongoing assessment of realizability. Deferred income taxes are measured by applying current tax laws. We use the deferral method of accounting for available state tax credits relating to the purchase of the shredder equipment. The FASB has issued guidance, included in the ASC, related to the accounting for uncertainty in income taxes recognized in financial statements. The Company recognizes uncertain income tax positions using the "more-likely-than-not" approach as defined in the ASC. The amount recognized is subject to estimate and management’s judgment with respect to the most likely outcome for each uncertain tax position. The amount that is ultimately sustained for an individual uncertain tax position or for all uncertain tax positions in the aggregate could differ from the amount recognized. The Company has no liability for uncertain tax positions recognized as of December 31, 2014 and 2013. As a policy, the Company recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax positions in interest expense and penalties in operating expenses.
Earnings Per Share	Earnings (Loss) Per Share: Basic earnings (loss) per share are computed by dividing net income (loss) by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the year. Diluted earnings (loss) per share are computed by dividing net income (loss) by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding plus the dilutive effect of stock options and warrants.
Stock Option Arrangements	Stock Option Arrangements: We have an employee stock option plan under which we may grant options for up to 2.4 million shares of common stock, which are reserved by the board of directors for issuance of stock options. We provide compensation benefits by granting stock options to employees and directors. The exercise price of each option is equal to the market price of our stock on the date of grant. The maximum term of the option is five years. We account for this plan based on FASB’s authoritative guidance titled "ASC 718 - Compensation - Stock Compensation." We recognize share-based compensation expense for the fair value of the awards, on the date granted on a straight-line basis over their vesting term. Compensation expense is recognized only for share-based payments expected to vest. We estimate forfeitures at the date of grant based on our historical experience and future expectations. Subject to shareholder approval and restrictions on exercisability set forth in a Stock Option Agreement entered into on December 2, 2013 between the Company and Algar (the “Stock Option Agreement”), the Company granted Algar an option to purchase a total of 1.5 million shares of Company common stock at an exercise price per share of $5.00. The Company uses the Modified Black-Scholes-Merton option-pricing model to value the Company's stock options for each employee stock option award. The Company uses the Lattice-Based model to value the Company's stock options for the Algar stock option awards due to market and performance conditions (see Note 13 - "Share Based Compensation"). Using these option-pricing models, the fair value of each stock option award is estimated on the date of grant. There are two significant inputs into the stock option pricing models: expected volatility and expected term. We estimate expected volatility based on traded option volatility of the Company's stock over a term equal to the expected term of the option granted. The expected term of stock option awards granted is derived from historical exercise experience under the Company's stock option plans and represents the period of time that stock option awards granted are expected to be outstanding. The expected term assumption incorporates the contractual term of an option grant, as well as the vesting period of an award. The risk-free interest rate is based on the implied yield on a U.S. Treasury constant maturity with a remaining term equal to the expected term of the option granted. The assumptions used in calculating the fair value of stock-based payment awards represent management's best estimates, but these estimates involve inherent uncertainties and the application of management's judgment. As a result, if factors change and we use different assumptions, stock-based compensation expense could be materially different in the future. In addition, we are required to estimate the expected forfeiture rate, and only recognize expense for those shares expected to vest. If our actual forfeiture rate is materially different from its estimate, the stock-based compensation expense could be significantly different from what we have recorded in the current period. Treasury shares or new shares are issued for exercised options. The Company does not expect to repurchase any additional shares within the following annual period to accommodate the exercise of outstanding stock options. Under the long term incentive plan, we may grant any of these types of awards: non-qualified and incentive stock options; stock appreciation rights; and other stock awards including stock units, restricted stock units, performance shares, performance units, and restricted stock. The performance goals that we may use for such awards will be based on any one or more of the following performance measures: cash flow; earnings; earnings per share; market value added or economic value added; profits; return on assets; return on equity; return on investment; revenues; or total shareholder return. The plan is administered by a committee selected by the Board, initially our Compensation Committee, and consisting of two or more outside members of the Board. The Committee may grant one or more awards to our employees, including our officers, our directors and consultants, and will determine the specific employees who will receive awards under the plan and the type and amount of any such awards. A participant who receives shares of stock awarded under the plan must hold those shares for six months before the participant may dispose of such shares. The Committee may settle an award under the plan in cash rather than stock. For performance-based stock awards granted under this plan, we have assumed that the performance targets for awards granted in a specific year will be achieved. We have assumed that performance targets for future years will not be achieved. Based on these assumptions, we use the closing per share stock price on the date the contract is signed to calculate award values for recording purposes. These calculated amounts reflect the aggregate grant date fair value of the stock awards computed in accordance with ASC Topic 718.
Impact of Recently Issued Accounting Standards	Impact of Recently Issued Accounting Standards: In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606). The amendments in ASU 2014-09 affect any entity that either enters into contracts with customers to transfer goods or services or enters into contracts for the transfer of nonfinancial assets unless those contracts are within the scope of other standards (e.g., insurance contracts or lease contracts). The core principle of the guidance is that an entity should recognize revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. The amendments are effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016, including interim periods within that reporting period. Early application is not permitted. We have not yet assessed the impact of the adoption of ASU 2014-09 on our Consolidated Financial Statements. In August 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-15, Presentation of Financial Statements-Going Concern (Subtopic 205-40). The amendments in ASU 2014-15 are intended to define management’s responsibility to evaluate whether there is substantial doubt about an organization’s ability to continue as a going concern and to provide related footnote disclosures. The amendments are effective for annual periods ending after December 15, 2016, including interim periods within that reporting period. Early application is permitted for annual or interim reporting periods for which the financial statements have not previously been issued. We have not yet assessed the impact of the adoption of ASU 2014-15 on our Consolidated Financial Statements.

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Policies)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2014

Revenue Recognition: ISA records revenue for its recycling and equipment sales divisions upon delivery of the related materials and equipment to the customer. We provide installation and training on all equipment and we charge these costs to the customer, recording revenue in the period we provide the service. We are the middleman in the sale of the equipment and not a manufacturer. Any warranty is the responsibility of the manufacturer and therefore we make no estimates for warranty obligations. Allowances for equipment returns are made on a case-by-case basis. Historically, returns of equipment have not been material.

Our management services group provides our customers with evaluation, management, monitoring, auditing and cost reduction consulting of our customers’ non-hazardous solid waste removal activities. We recognize revenue related to the management aspects of these services when we deliver the services. We record revenue related to this activity on a gross basis because we are ultimately responsible for service delivery, have discretion over the selection of the specific service provided and the amounts to be charged, and are directly obligated to the subcontractor for the services provided. We are an independent contractor. If we discover that third party service providers have not performed, either by auditing of the service provider invoices or communications from our customers, we then resolve the service delivery dispute directly with the third party service supplier. Revenue from equipment rental is recognized monthly as earned.

Fair Value of Financial Instruments

Fair Value of Financial Instruments: We estimate the fair value of our financial instruments using relevant market information and other assumptions. Fair value estimates involve uncertainties and matters of significant judgment regarding interest rates, prepayments and other factors. Changes in assumptions or market conditions could significantly affect these estimates. As of December 31, 2014, the estimated fair value of our debt instruments approximated book value. The fair value of our debt approximates its carrying value because the majority of our debt bears a floating rate of interest based on the LIBOR rate. There is no readily available market by which to determine fair value of our fixed term debt; however, based on existing interest rates and prevailing rates as of each year end, we have determined that the fair value of our fixed rate debt approximates book value.

We carry certain of our financial assets and liabilities at fair value on a recurring basis. These financial assets and liabilities are composed of cash and cash equivalents and derivative instruments. Long-term debt is carried at cost, and the fair value is disclosed herein. In addition, we measure certain assets, such as goodwill and other long-lived assets, at fair value on a non-recurring basis to evaluate those assets for potential impairment. Fair value is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date.

In accordance with applicable accounting standards, we categorize our financial assets and liabilities into the following fair value hierarchy:

Level 1 – Financial assets and liabilities with values based on unadjusted quoted prices for identical assets or liabilities in an active market. Examples of level 1 financial instruments include active exchange-traded securities.

Level 2 – Financial assets and liabilities with values based on quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets, and inputs that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly, for substantially the full term of the asset or liability. Examples of level 2 financial instruments include commercial paper purchased from the State Street-administered asset-backed commercial paper conduits, various types of interest-rate and commodity-based derivative instruments, and various types of fixed-income investment securities. Pricing models are utilized to estimate fair value for certain financial assets and liabilities categorized in level 2.

Level 3 – Financial assets and liabilities with values based on prices or valuation techniques that require inputs that are both unobservable in the market and significant to the overall fair value measurement. These inputs reflect management’s judgment about the assumptions that a market participant would use in pricing the asset or liability, and are based on the best available information, some of which is internally developed. Examples of level 3 financial instruments include certain corporate debt with little or no market activity and a resulting lack of price transparency.

When determining the fair value measurements for financial assets and liabilities carried at fair value on a recurring basis, we consider the principal or most advantageous market in which we would transact and consider assumptions that market participants would use when pricing the asset or liability. When possible, we look to active and observable markets to price identical assets or liabilities. When identical assets and liabilities are not traded in active markets, we look to market observable data for similar assets and liabilities. Nevertheless, certain assets and liabilities are not actively traded in observable markets, and we use alternative valuation techniques to derive fair value measurements.

We use the fair value methodology outlined in the related accounting standard to value the assets and liabilities for cash, debt and derivatives. All of our cash is defined as Level 1 and all our debt and derivative contracts are defined as Level 2.

Estimates

Estimates: In preparing the consolidated financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America ("GAAP"), management must make estimates and assumptions. These estimates and assumptions affect the amounts reported for assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses, as well as affecting the disclosures provided. Examples of estimates include the allowance for doubtful accounts, estimates associated with goodwill and intangibles impairment tests, estimates of realizability of deferred income tax assets and liabilities, estimates of inventory balances and values, and estimates of stock option and warrant values. The Company also uses estimates when assessing fair values of assets and liabilities acquired in business acquisitions as well as any fair value and any related impairment charges related to the carrying value of inventory and machinery and equipment, and other long-lived assets. Despite the Company’s intention to establish accurate estimates and use reasonable assumptions, actual results may differ from these estimates.

Principles of Consolidation

Principles of Consolidation: The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its wholly-owned subsidiaries. Upon consolidation, all inter-company accounts, transactions and profits have been eliminated.

Reclassifications

Reclassifications: We have reclassified certain income statement items within the accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements and Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for the prior years and prior quarters in order to be comparable with the current presentation. These reclassifications had no effect on previously reported net loss or shareholders' equity.

Cash and Cash Equivalents

Cash and Cash Equivalents: Cash and cash equivalents includes cash in banks with original maturities of three months or less. Cash and cash equivalents are stated at cost which approximates fair value, which in the opinion of management, are subject to an insignificant risk of loss in value. The Company maintains cash balances in excess of federally insured limits.

Accounts Receivable and Allowance for Doubtful Accounts

Accounts Receivable and Allowance for Doubtful Accounts: Accounts receivable consists primarily of amounts due from customers from product and brokered sales. The allowance for doubtful accounts totaled $100.0 thousand at December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013. Our determination of the allowance for doubtful accounts includes a number of factors, including the age of the balance, estimated settlement adjustments, past experience with the customer account, changes in collection patterns and general economic and industry conditions. Interest is not normally charged on receivables nor do we normally require collateral for receivables. Potential credit losses from our significant customers could adversely affect our results of operations or financial condition. While we believe our allowance for doubtful accounts is adequate, changes in economic conditions or any weakness in the steel and metals industry could adversely impact our future earnings. In general, we consider accounts receivable past due which are 30 to 60 days after the invoice date. We charge off losses to the allowance when we deem further collection efforts will not provide additional recoveries.

Major Customer

Major Customer: North American Stainless ("NAS") is a major customer in Recycling. Sales to NAS equaled 13.3% of our consolidated revenue in 2014, and 37.5% of our consolidated revenue in 2013.

Inventories

Inventory also includes all types of industrial waste handling equipment and machinery held for resale such as compactors, balers, and containers, which are valued based on cost. Replacement parts included in inventory are depreciated over a one-year life and are used by the Company within the one-year period as these parts wear out quickly due to the high-volume and intensity of the shredder function. Other inventory includes fuel and baling wire.

Some commodities are in saleable condition at acquisition. We purchase these commodities in small amounts until we have a truckload of material available for shipment. Some commodities are not in saleable condition at acquisition. These commodities must be torched, shredded or baled. We do not have work-in-process inventory that needs to be manufactured to become finished goods. We include processing costs in inventory for all commodities by gross ton.

Inventories: Our inventories primarily consist of ferrous and non-ferrous scrap metals, including stainless steel, and are valued at the lower of average purchased cost or market based on the specific scrap commodity. Quantities of inventories are determined based on our inventory systems and are subject to periodic physical verification using estimation techniques including observation, weighing and other industry methods. We recognize inventory impairment when the market value, based upon current market pricing, falls below recorded value or when the estimated volume is less than the recorded volume of inventory. We record the loss in cost of sales in the period during which we identified the loss.

We make certain assumptions regarding future demand and net realizable value in order to assess whether inventory is properly recorded at the lower of cost or market. We base our assumptions on historical experience, current market conditions and current replacement costs. If the anticipated future selling prices of scrap metal and finished steel products should decline, we would re-assess the recorded net realizable value ("NRV") of our inventory and make any adjustments we feel necessary in order to reduce the value of our inventory (and increase cost of sales) to the lower of cost or market.

Property and Equipment

Property and Equipment: Property and equipment are stated at cost and depreciated on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of the related property.

A typical term of our rental equipment leases is five years. The revenue stream is based on monthly usage and recognized in the month of usage. We record purchased rental equipment, including all installation and freight charges, as a fixed asset. We are typically responsible for all repairs and maintenance expenses on rental equipment.

Factoring Fees and Certain Banking Expenses

Factoring Fees and Certain Banking Expenses: We have included factoring fees and certain banking expenses relating to our loans and loan restructuring within interest expense. The loan fees amortization totaled $72.9 thousand and $301.5 thousand for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

We had entered into factoring agreements with various European financial institutions to sell our accounts receivable under non-recourse agreements. These transactions are treated as a sale and were accounted for as a reduction in accounts receivable because the agreements transfer effective control and risk related to the receivables to the buyers. Thus, cash proceeds from these arrangements are reflected in the change of accounts receivable in our statements of cash flows each period. We do not service any factored accounts after the factoring has occurred. We do not have any servicing assets or liabilities. We had utilized factoring arrangements as an integral part of our financing for working capital. The aggregate gross amount factored under these facilities was $0.0 million and $31.9 million for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. Our loss on these transactions, the cost of factoring such accounts receivable, is reflected in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations as interest expense with other financing costs. The cost of factoring such accounts receivable for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 was $0.0 thousand and $121.6 thousand, respectively.

Shipping and Handling Cost Fees and Costs

Shipping and Handling Fees and Costs: Shipping and handling charges incurred by the Company are included in cost of sales and shipping charges billed to the customer are included in revenues in the accompanying consolidated statements of income.

Advertising Expense

Advertising Expense: Advertising costs are charged to expense in the period the costs are incurred.

Derivative and Hedging Activities

Derivative and Hedging Activities: We are exposed to market risk stemming from changes in metal commodity prices, and interest rates. In the normal course of business, we actively manage our exposure to these market risks by entering into various hedging transactions, authorized under established policies that place clear controls on these activities. Derivative financial instruments currently used by us consist of interest rate swap contracts. Derivative financial instruments are accounted for under the provisions of the FASB's authoritative guidance titled “ASC 815 - Derivative and Hedging.” Under these standards, derivatives are carried on the balance sheet at fair value. Our interest rate swaps are designated as a cash flow hedge, and the effective portions of changes in the fair value of the derivatives are recorded as a component of other comprehensive income or loss and are recognized in the statement of operations when the hedged item affects earnings. Ineffective portions of changes in the fair value of cash flow hedges are recognized in gain or loss on derivative liabilities. Cash flows related to derivatives are included in operating activities.

We do not enter into any interest rate swap derivative instruments for trading purposes. We recognize as an adjustment to interest expense the differential paid or received on interest rate swaps. We include in other comprehensive income the change in the fair value of the interest rate swap, which is established as an effective hedge. We include the required disclosures for interest rate swaps in Note 4 – “Long Term Debt and Notes Payable to Bank” of our Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

During 2014 and 2013, we did not use derivative instruments in the form of commodity hedges to assist in managing our commodity price risk. We do not enter into any commodity hedges for trading purposes.

Income Taxes

Income Taxes: Deferred income taxes are recorded to recognize the tax consequences on future years of differences between the tax basis of assets and liabilities and their carrying amounts for financial reporting purposes, referred to as “temporary differences,” and for net operating loss carry-forwards subject to an ongoing assessment of realizability. Deferred income taxes are measured by applying current tax laws. We use the deferral method of accounting for available state tax credits relating to the purchase of the shredder equipment.

The FASB has issued guidance, included in the ASC, related to the accounting for uncertainty in income taxes recognized in financial statements. The Company recognizes uncertain income tax positions using the "more-likely-than-not" approach as defined in the ASC. The amount recognized is subject to estimate and management’s judgment with respect to the most likely outcome for each uncertain tax position. The amount that is ultimately sustained for an individual uncertain tax position or for all uncertain tax positions in the aggregate could differ from the amount recognized. The Company has no liability for uncertain tax positions recognized as of December 31, 2014 and 2013.

As a policy, the Company recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax positions in interest expense and penalties in operating expenses.

Earnings Per Share

Earnings (Loss) Per Share: Basic earnings (loss) per share are computed by dividing net income (loss) by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the year. Diluted earnings (loss) per share are computed by dividing net income (loss) by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding plus the dilutive effect of stock options and warrants.

Stock Option Arrangements

Stock Option Arrangements: We have an employee stock option plan under which we may grant options for up to 2.4 million shares of common stock, which are reserved by the board of directors for issuance of stock options. We provide compensation benefits by granting stock options to employees and directors. The exercise price of each option is equal to the market price of our stock on the date of grant. The maximum term of the option is five years. We account for this plan based on FASB’s authoritative guidance titled "ASC 718 - Compensation - Stock Compensation." We recognize share-based compensation expense for the fair value of the awards, on the date granted on a straight-line basis over their vesting term. Compensation expense is recognized only for share-based payments expected to vest. We estimate forfeitures at the date of grant based on our historical experience and future expectations. Subject to shareholder approval and restrictions on exercisability set forth in a Stock Option Agreement entered into on December 2, 2013 between the Company and Algar (the “Stock Option Agreement”), the Company granted Algar an option to purchase a total of 1.5 million shares of Company common stock at an exercise price per share of $5.00.

The Company uses the Modified Black-Scholes-Merton option-pricing model to value the Company's stock options for each employee stock option award. The Company uses the Lattice-Based model to value the Company's stock options for the Algar stock option awards due to market and performance conditions (see Note 13 - "Share Based Compensation"). Using these option-pricing models, the fair value of each stock option award is estimated on the date of grant.

There are two significant inputs into the stock option pricing models: expected volatility and expected term. We estimate expected volatility based on traded option volatility of the Company's stock over a term equal to the expected term of the option granted. The expected term of stock option awards granted is derived from historical exercise experience under the Company's stock option plans and represents the period of time that stock option awards granted are expected to be outstanding.

The expected term assumption incorporates the contractual term of an option grant, as well as the vesting period of an award. The risk-free interest rate is based on the implied yield on a U.S. Treasury constant maturity with a remaining term equal to the expected term of the option granted. The assumptions used in calculating the fair value of stock-based payment awards represent management's best estimates, but these estimates involve inherent uncertainties and the application of management's judgment. As a result, if factors change and we use different assumptions, stock-based compensation expense could be materially different in the future. In addition, we are required to estimate the expected forfeiture rate, and only recognize expense for those shares expected to vest. If our actual forfeiture rate is materially different from its estimate, the stock-based compensation expense could be significantly different from what we have recorded in the current period.

Treasury shares or new shares are issued for exercised options. The Company does not expect to repurchase any additional shares within the following annual period to accommodate the exercise of outstanding stock options.

Under the long term incentive plan, we may grant any of these types of awards: non-qualified and incentive stock options; stock appreciation rights; and other stock awards including stock units, restricted stock units, performance shares, performance units, and restricted stock. The performance goals that we may use for such awards will be based on any one or more of the following performance measures: cash flow; earnings; earnings per share; market value added or economic value added; profits; return on assets; return on equity; return on investment; revenues; or total shareholder return.

The plan is administered by a committee selected by the Board, initially our Compensation Committee, and consisting of two or more outside members of the Board. The Committee may grant one or more awards to our employees, including our officers, our directors and consultants, and will determine the specific employees who will receive awards under the plan and the type and amount of any such awards. A participant who receives shares of stock awarded under the plan must hold those shares for six months before the participant may dispose of such shares. The Committee may settle an award under the plan in cash rather than stock.

For performance-based stock awards granted under this plan, we have assumed that the performance targets for awards granted in a specific year will be achieved. We have assumed that performance targets for future years will not be achieved. Based on these assumptions, we use the closing per share stock price on the date the contract is signed to calculate award values for recording purposes. These calculated amounts reflect the aggregate grant date fair value of the stock awards computed in accordance with ASC Topic 718.

Impact of Recently Issued Accounting Standards

Impact of Recently Issued Accounting Standards:

In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606). The amendments in ASU 2014-09 affect any entity that either enters into contracts with customers to transfer goods or services or enters into contracts for the transfer of nonfinancial assets unless those contracts are within the scope of other standards (e.g., insurance contracts or lease contracts). The core principle of the guidance is that an entity should recognize revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. The amendments are effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016, including interim periods within that reporting period. Early application is not permitted. We have not yet assessed the impact of the adoption of ASU 2014-09 on our Consolidated Financial Statements.

In August 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-15, Presentation of Financial Statements-Going Concern (Subtopic 205-40). The amendments in ASU 2014-15 are intended to define management’s responsibility to evaluate whether there is substantial doubt about an organization’s ability to continue as a going concern and to provide related footnote disclosures. The amendments are effective for annual periods ending after December 15, 2016, including interim periods within that reporting period. Early application is permitted for annual or interim reporting periods for which the financial statements have not previously been issued. We have not yet assessed the impact of the adoption of ASU 2014-15 on our Consolidated Financial Statements.