Construction Growth Slowing, Not Stopping in 2016

  • Posted on

CHICAGO, Ill. – The copious growth of the construction industry in 2015 is fueling continued strong activity in 2016. According to JLL’s latest report on nonresidential construction activity, the rate of growth in construction is slowing—yet, starts continue at a strong pace. The catch: growth is expensive. While a welcome decline in prices for steel and some other materials is underway, high labor costs, glass prices and steep competition throughout the industry continue to prove challenging. “For financial viability, project sponsors will need to strike a balance between the lower costs for some materials, like steel, and the ever-increasing cost … Read more

Filed under: NewsTagged with: , ,

Associated Builders and Contractors Congratulates National Craft Champions

  • Posted on

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Associated Builders and Contractors officials announced the winners of the 29th annual National Craft Championships during the Careers in Construction awards ceremony following ABC’s Workforce Week. “The dedication to top-notch construction, quality craftsmanship and world-class safety exhibited by this year’s champions is truly impressive,” said 2016 ABC National Chair David Chapin, president of Willmar Electric Service, Lincoln, Nebraska. “With the workforce shortage facing the construction industry, each of this year’s competitors will play an important role in the future of merit shop construction. Our member companies are fortunate to employ such skilled craftsmen and women.” The National … Read more

Filed under: NewsTagged with: , , , ,

Coworker Safety & Hose Handling DVD Available through ACPA

  • Posted on

LEWIS CENTER, Ohio – The American Concrete Pumping Association is now offering its new Coworker Safety & Hose Handling DVD. This video is designed to educate people on the jobsite about safe practices around concrete pumps. It also is designed to educate the person(s) who will be handling the end hose in proper and safe techniques. Topics covered include identifying dangerous areas, disabling the pump in an emergency, safe hose-handling techniques and more. The DVD addresses an ongoing need for more safety information and training in the concrete pumping industry and seeks to increase awareness of safe pumping practices and … Read more

Filed under: NewsTagged with: , ,

Final Rule Announced to Improve U.S. Workers’ Protection from ‘Respirable’ Silica Dust

  • Posted on

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration recently announced a final rule to improve protection for workers exposed to respirable silica dust. The rule will curb lung cancer, silicosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and kidney disease in America’s workers by limiting their exposure to respirable crystalline silica. “More than 80 years ago, Labor Secretary Frances Perkins identified silica dust as a deadly hazard and called on employers to fully protect workers,” said U.S. Secretary of Labor Thomas E. Perez. “This rule will save lives. It will enable workers to earn a living without sacrificing … Read more

Filed under: NewsTagged with: , , , ,

KBR Launches Craft Training Program for Veterans

  • Posted on

HOUSTON, Texas – KBR is creating a program to train active duty military in the pipefitting trade to assist service members who desire to pursue an industrial civilian career following their military service. The initiative is in partnership with Central Louisiana Technical Community College and Fort Polk, located in Vernon Parish, Louisiana. The Veteran Pipefitting Training Program was created for active duty military at Fort Polk and applicants will be selected for the 16-week program by Fort Polk’s Soldier for Life Transition Assistance Program and KBR. Trainees will receive training credentials for both academic and hands-on practice by the National … Read more

Filed under: NewsTagged with: , ,