Managing Daily Performance

By Charlie Stevens It seems that each year, contractors are asked to deliver projects faster and faster. In the recent recession, owners demanded it and contractors accepted it and were thankful to have a project. Now, even though there is more work in the marketplace, owners" demands have not changed. Remarkably fast construction schedules that previously seemed like the exception have become the norm. Superintendents have the responsibility to meet the owner's schedule requirements and deliver the project when promised. In order to meet the overall schedule, one of the most critical activities is to manage the work crew's daily … Read more

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Architecture Billings Index Rebounds to End 2014 on Solid Footing

WASHINGTON, D.C. — There were 10 out of 12 months of increasing demand for design services in 2014, and the Architecture Billings Index points to a healthy outlook for the nonresidential construction industry. As a leading economic indicator of construction activity, the ABI reflects the approximate 9-12-month lead time between architecture billings and construction spending. The American Institute of Architects reported the December ABI score was 52.2, up from a mark of 50.9 in November. This score reflects an increase in design activity (any score above 50 indicates an increase in billings). The new projects inquiry index was 58.2, following … Read more

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Demolition Excavator Equipped for Added Efficiency, Smoother Operation

Hyundai Construction Equipment Americas, Inc.'s R520LC-9A DM (Demolition) excavator is equipped with a tilting cab and high reach arm, guaranteed to tackle large demolition projects, whether it's tearing down buildings or cleaning up the debris thereafter. This model has many enhanced features and benefits, including a certified Interim Tier 4 engine, advanced hydraulics engineered for added efficiency and smooth operation. Enhanced operator comfort with a fully customizable work environment and added durability are provided by high-quality cab construction.

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Brasfield & Gorrie Completes New Orlando Health Patient Tower

ORLANDO, Fla. — Orlando Health turns the page to a new chapter in patient, guest and team member experience, with the opening of Orlando Regional Medical Center’s new patient tower. The new patient tower is referred to as ORMC North Tower. The existing ORMC building will now be referred to as ORMC South Tower. The 245-bed, 10-story, 345,000-square foot north tower is designed to enhance the quality of care, reinforce safety for patients and caregivers and heighten patient satisfaction. It features all-private rooms, centralized registration, in-room computers to enable caregivers to chart at patients” bedside, safety “red lines”   integrated … Read more

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EPA Decision Preserves Recycling Program Using Fly Ash in Construction Materials

The chief executive officer of the Associated General Contractors of America, Stephen E. Sandherr, recently released the following statement in response to the Environmental Protection Agency’s decision to set performance standards for the safe disposal of coal combustion waste, including fly ash: “Today’s decision by the EPA to set performance standards for the safe disposal of coal combustion waste preserves what is one of the most successful commercial recycling programs in use today, the use of fly ash in concrete, asphalt, grout and other construction materials. As a result, the construction industry will be able to continue to recycle an … Read more

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