Input Prices for Nonresidential Construction Climb 21% between March 2021, March 2022

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Prices of materials and services used in new nonresidential construction jumped more than 21% from March 2021 to March 2022, according to an analysis by the Associated General Contractors of America of government data. “Construction firms have been burdened with cost increases of 20% per year or more since early 2021,” said Ken Simonson, the association’s chief economist. “Since contractors can seldom pass along increases on projects that are underway, these extreme price hikes threaten the viability of many firms. Unfortunately, the continuing war in Ukraine is likely to keep input costs elevated for many more months, if not longer.” … Read more

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AGC Reports 3/4 of Metro Areas Add Construction Jobs January 2021-2022, Soaring Job Openings Indicate Lack of Workers Kept Employment Totals Down

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Construction employment increased in nearly three out of four U.S. metro areas in January compared to a year ago, according to an analysis by the Associated General Contractors of America of new government employment data. Association officials welcomed the widespread job gains but cautioned that contractors in many areas are having trouble finding enough qualified workers to return to pre-pandemic levels amid tight labor market conditions. “Construction employment is now increasing in most areas after a rough first year of the pandemic,” said Ken Simonson, the association’s chief economist. “But contractors recently have had more unfilled positions at the end … Read more

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Construction Spending Rose in January from December, January 2021, Reports AGC

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Construction spending increased in January compared to both December and a year ago, with strong gains in private nonresidential and residential construction but mixed results for public spending, according to an analysis of federal spending data the Associated General Contractors of America. Association leaders urged Washington officials to speed the award of funds promised by the Bipartisan Infrastructure law. “Private nonresidential construction, especially for manufacturing plants, has rebounded sharply in recent months, while demand for housing remains strong,” said Ken Simonson, the association’s chief economist. “But public projects have yet to grow consistently.” Construction spending in January totaled $1.68 trillion … Read more

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Construction Safety Week Announces 2022 Dates and Theme

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Construction Safety Week, an annual industrywide education and awareness event originally formed in 2014, is set for May 2-6. This year’s theme is “Connected. Supported. Safe.” The new theme reflects the enduring connection workers and leaders have to each other across the industry. Being connected builds strength, because it means individual workers are not alone in building a stronger, safer industry and creating a safe, supportive environment for everyone. Safety Week once again includes a focus on mental health issues among workers. Issues like substance abuse or depression can cause even the best worker to put others at risk. And … Read more

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Building a New Reality for Safety Training

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By Dan Ruane Even as the Occupational Safety and Health Administration demands a high standard, construction safety continues to be an area of opportunity for the industry. As the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports 1,008 fatalities in 2020, there remains a compelling need for improvement. All workers have the right to a safe work environment, and jobsite safety should always be a top priority for any construction company. Beyond the moral obligation, it makes financial sense. A U.S. National Safety Council survey reveals that each dollar invested in safety measures returns $2 in avoided costs. The challenge: traditionally, safety … Read more

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