What Construction Companies are Doing in Wake of COVID-19

As COVID-19 brings countless businesses to a grinding halt, the construction industry remains resilient — even in the face of tremendous challenge. Unlike many industries where “working from home” and “drive-thru service” are feasible countermeasures, construction firms have jobsites to run. Chris Hopper, executive vice president and general manager of Skanska, said, “You can’t hang drywall from your house.” The New York-based construction and development firm employs more than 10,000, and has developed a multi-faceted COVID-19 response plan to help keep employees safe and jobsites operational. Association of Equipment Manufacturers looked at what Skanska and other leading construction firms are … Read more

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COVID-19 Response (Part 1): What You Need to Know to Protect Your Crews

Amidst the growing uncertainties surrounding the global pandemic, it’s critical that we do what we can to slow the spread of COVID-19—while at the same time attempt to maintain “business as usual” —with safeguards in place to better protect the safety and well-being of employees, trade partners, clients and the general public. The following recommended best practices, recently published by The Builder’s Association, are based on what is presently known about the coronavirus disease. As this issue progresses or recedes, the organization strongly recommends contractors stay current and immediately implement the most up-to-date best practices going forward. Personal responsibilities It … Read more

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Pandemic Halts or Delays Projects for 28% of Contractors, Survey Finds

The coronavirus pandemic has caused more than one out of four contractors to halt or delay work on projects, according to a survey released by the Associated General Contractors of America. The survey results show how quickly market conditions have changed compared to data showing a majority of metro areas added construction jobs through January. Association officials noted that a relief bill the Senate is considering includes some favorable tax and loan provisions. But they said the bill also needs new infrastructure investments and improvements to the new paid sick and family medical leave measures. “The coronavirus pandemic has the … Read more

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CPWR Provides Steps Construction Employers, Workers Should Take in Response to Coronavirus

While the spread of COVID-19 is having a major impact on the economy and the lives of people across the world, certain industries such as construction are being particularly hard-hit. CPWR has been working closely with NABTU and its research, government and other industry partners to respond to questions about the spread of this disease and to provide the latest information on protecting construction workers on the job. To make this information readily accessible, CPWR has developed a COVID-19 resource page on cpwr.com, including a one-page guidance document, and is regularly updating these materials as new information becomes available. For now, … Read more

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AGC: Shutting Down Construction Projects Unnecessary Step, Will Harm Economy & Undermine Recovery Efforts

The CEO of the Associated General Contractors of America, Stephen E. Sandherr, issued the following statement in reaction to steps being taken to put in place arbitrary halts to construction activity in certain parts of the country: “Halting construction activity will do more harm than good for construction workers, community residents and the economy. Construction firms are already acting to ensure the safety and health of their employees in the face of the coronavirus outbreak. These new measures, which include increased hygiene and halting group gatherings of staff, are in addition to the fact construction workers already wear protective equipment, … Read more

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