Tips to Mitigate 5 Common Jobsite Distractions

  • Posted on

By Vern Orpin From physical to mental, distractions are everywhere, and how people handle them can mean life or death—construction jobsites are no different. It is estimated that 80% of industrial accidents and 90% of construction accidents are caused wholly or in part by distractions and human error (according to Heinrich’s Domino Model). Some are the same, some are unique to construction, but all distractions have the potential to change outcomes. That’s why it’s imperative to not only recognize jobsite distractions, but also to build resilience into our systems to have tolerance for all sorts of variables and overcome distractions … Read more

Filed under: eNews, SafetyTagged with: , , , ,

SMACNA Greater Chicago Members Learn Importance of Construction Data

  • Posted on

Construction and building data exists for almost every project that has ever been built, but harnessing the power of that data through digital avenues is becoming more commonplace in the industry. “It’s exciting to watch technology continually evolve in the construction industry, and see how our members respond to the newest advances,” said Tony Adolfs, executive vice president of SMACNA Greater Chicago. “As an association, we’re committed to providing our members with the resources they need to be leaders in our industry.” In their continuing efforts to help members stay aware of emerging technologies, SMACNA provides regular educational programs for … Read more

Filed under: eNews, TechnologyTagged with: , , , ,

ACCEND Construction Welcomes Industry Veteran as General Superintendent

  • Posted on

ACCEND Construction LLC, a new general contracting firm with a fresh approach to commercial construction, has hired Tony Fontanetta as general superintendent. In his position, Fontanetta will oversee projects to ensure they are completed within budget, on schedule and in accordance with client specifications. Fontanetta will also ensure that jobsite safety and quality control are maintained during projects. Over the course of his 34-year career, Fontanetta has overseen 6.5 million square feet of construction including office interiors, hospitality and restaurant projects, new construction and heavy renovations. In his previous position, he helped oversee and grow the field from $0 to … Read more

Filed under: eNews, Movers & ShakersTagged with: ,

Dodge Momentum Index Inches Higher in March

  • Posted on

The Dodge Momentum Index increased 0.5% in March to 145.5 (2000=100) from the revised February reading of 144.8. The momentum index, issued by Dodge Data & Analytics, is a monthly measure of the first (or initial) report for nonresidential building projects in planning, which have been shown to lead construction spending for nonresidential buildings by a full year. The March uptick was due to a 2.8% increase in the commercial component of the momentum index, while the institutional component fell 3%. The overall momentum index has essentially moved sideways and stayed within a very narrow band of activity since the … Read more

Filed under: Economic News, eNewsTagged with: , ,

Technology, Innovative Strategies Key in Renovating Historic Sports Arena on Busy College Campus

  • Posted on

By Jim Yechout Accommodating constraints on a jobsite is nothing new for superintendents. But the $110-million, 18-month renovation of Northwestern University’s Welsh-Ryan Arena, located in Evanston, Illinois, posed a few more challenges in one project than usual. Compact jobsite, surrounded by other highly active buildings, walkways and sports fields College activities, students, coaches and others that required access to all sides of the jobsite Close proximity to a residential neighborhood Fast-track construction timetable aimed at being fully operational for the 2018 basketball season Historic renovation with intricate and complex selective demolition Although building a new facility could potentially have been … Read more

Filed under: eNews, TechnologyTagged with: , ,