AGC Launches Campaign to Alert Summer Motorists to Slow Down + Remain Alert in Construction Work Zones

67% of highway contractors report that motor vehicles had crashed into their construction work zones during the past year, according to the results of a new highway work zone study conducted by the Associated General Contractors of America. In response, association officials have launched a new radio and media campaign urging drivers to slow down and remain alert in highway work zones. “There are simply too many cars crashing into too many work zones, putting too many lives at risk,” said Brian Turmail, the association’s national spokesman. “That is why we are launching a nationwide outreach effort designed to better … Read more

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General Contractor Guides Vision for Customized Female-Fitting Safety Vests

When it comes to personal protective equipment on construction sites, one size doesn’t fit all. Women shouldn’t be asked to compromise their safety by wearing unisex vests, gloves or goggles that are too large. It’s unsafe and unfair. That’s why Skanska has set out on a mission to help provide new, custom-built PPE for this growing part of its workforce. According to the Institute for Women’s Policy Research, the number of women working in construction trades increased by 17.6% between 2017 and 2018. And while PPE designed for a female’s body does exist, it’s not overly popular or widely used. … Read more

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Carla Bowron Promoted to Healthcare Group Manager for JE Dunn Construction

JE Dunn Construction recently promoted Carla Bowron, a 25-year veteran of the construction industry, to the position of group manager for Healthcare in the Atlanta, Georgia market. As a group manager, Bowron assumes greater responsibilities for business development, project financials, employee recruitment and retention, assembling project teams tailored for each job, stakeholder relationships, safety and general operational excellence in JE Dunn’s Healthcare sector. Bowron previously served as a senior project manager. Bowron is credentialed by the American Hospital Association as a Certified Healthcare Constructor, and by the U.S. Green Building Council as a LEED Accredited Professional. Her professional affiliations also … Read more

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Seasoned Workers for Seasonal Work

Dipping into retirement pool to fill worker shortage gap By Mary Kaeding Construction companies around the country always need to manage their project schedules around seasonal weather conditions, during the school year and sometimes over extended holiday periods. For example, crews will find the arctic blast in the north quite challenging to complete certain outdoor projects, so work is assigned accordingly. Similarly, major educational construction may not be feasible while schools are in session, so work is scheduled during the summertime. So how do construction companies – especially when there are labor shortages – find and hire seasoned workers for … Read more

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Inaugural White Paper Offers Recommendations for Improved Excavator Training, Outreach 

Common Ground Alliance has announced the release of a new white paper that offers a blueprint for all stakeholders to increase the effectiveness of their outreach to professional excavators about preventing damage to underground utilities. CGA white paper: Data-Informed Insights and Recommendations for More Effective Excavator Outreach analyzes data from the most recent CGA DIRT Report, a national online survey and in-person focus group sessions conducted with professional excavators, and a study of general public awareness of the 811 “call before you dig” service to offer the following four key takeaways: Continue increasing awareness of 811 through strategic marketing and education campaigns Acknowledge the … Read more

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