The construction industry is no stranger to labor shortages – in August of this year 69% of construction firms were struggling to fill hourly craft positions. Architects, firms and contractors are scrambling to augment the existing workforce. But what if we approach the problem differently, putting the focus on utilizing the existing workforce to its full efficiency? Watch now.
International design and engineering firm Arup has developed a green “living wall” scaffolding system — outfitted with grass, flowers and wild strawberries — in an effort to make construction sites healthier and less of an eyesore, the Construction Enquirer reported. Read more
The Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) has released an app that provides instant access to workplace health and safety advice and information on mobile devices. Read more
November 2, 2016 – Today, the Canada Green Building Council® (CaGBC)released a Zero Carbon Buildings Framework for the assessment of highly energy efficient buildings that minimize greenhouse gas emissions. The Framework is the first stage of a broader CaGBC Zero Carbon Buildings Initiative to champion the move to lower-carbon commercial, institutional and high-rise residential buildings in support of Canada’s efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 30 percent by 2030. Read more
The Trudeau Liberals are swinging open the doors to the federal treasury to push some $32 billion more out the door in the coming decade for infrastructure projects. Read more
CCA is pleased that the Federal Ministerial Panel Report is now public. This report highlights many of the complicated issues the government must weigh as it considers Kinder Morgan’s application for expansion of the Trans Mountain Pipeline. CCA’s support for approval of the project remains strong and we look forward to the government’s decision in December. Read more
Bill Black, the president and CEO of Brxton Construction LP, presented “For the Love of Lean: Methodology, Key Features & Benefits” at Buildex Express, held Nov. 3rd in downtown Vancouver. Read more
Massachusetts Institute of Technology researchers have developed a computational model for analyzing noise transmissions and vibrations in the surrounding environment to measure building damage or structural stress. The technology could be used to pinpoint damage to or weakness in a structure following an earthquake or other significant seismic impact. Read more
The reason Uel McFall is passionate about design-build is because it’s based on teamwork. “I’ve always been a believer in working as a team,” said McFall. “Design-build is based on team collaboration, bringing people together all pulling on the same rope, pulling hard and getting it done in a non-adversarial relationship. That’s the spirit of design-build. It’s a shame that most jobs don’t run like design-build jobs.” Read more
In celebration of Women’s History Month and the changing role of women in construction, BuildForce Canada and Women Building Futures have announced that they are teaming up to lead more women into careers in construction. Read more.