February featured brisk job activity in the construction sector. Some 15,000 jobs were added last month, that despite the unseasonably cold and snowy weather in much of the country. Overall, the economy added 175,000 jobs, an unexpected increase compared with the two prior months that saw sluggish numbers. Also, Marketwatch reports that the…(Read More)
The phone may be convenient when screening talent, especially when project managers and others are in the field. But key communication is typically shortchanged without face-to-face interaction. Even Skype can be a bit awkward. Your organization’s culture and values play into the dynamic of the interview process. This post on Flazingo.com…(Read More)
Equipment rentals are on the rise. A survey by Wells Fargo Equipment Finance reveals that 91 percent of construction contractors plan to rent their gear in 2014, compared to 80 percent last year. The 2014 Construction Equipment Forecast also reveals that construction industry executives across the U.S. are very optimistic that local construction activity…(Read More)
An unprotected trench is often referred to as an ‘early grave’ and OSHA has advice on how to improve trenching safety. Figures from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) indicate that two workers are killed every month in trench collapses. For a primer on how to protect employees and foremen, BLR.com provides a…(Read More)
Bechtel, a global leader in the design and construction of complex power projects, has recognized dozens of partners for supporting their commitment to excellence. According to a company press release, subcontractors and suppliers who supported Bechtel Power’s communications, renewable, transmission, nuclear, and thermal projects during 2013 were recognized. Organizations were evaluated on multiple factors…(Read More)
Workers appreciate companies that offer unlimited vacation and sick days. Research finds people like the flexibility and, as a result, are more productive. The Society for Human Resource Management says only one percent of U.S. companies have updated their paid time-off policies, which also benefits employers. “Companies save by not having the administrative…(Read More)
Arbitration as an alternative dispute resolution process is still viable, but it doesn’t appear to be the beat all/end all process for all construction disputes, writes attorney Craig Martin, a partner at Lamson, Dugan, and Murray, LLP. Martin reminds us that several years ago, the industry mantra was to avoid litigation at all…(Read More)
How much credence do you give to your gut instincts? If you depend on your intuition when hiring, workplace blogger Meghan Biro warns that going with your gut is too vague when making important hiring decisions. Biro says due diligence is needed, and she has five ways to avoid the common traps of bad hires…(Read More)
Several recent collapses of huge cranes in Britain have prompted authorities there to issue warnings about heavy rig safety. The tips come from the Health and Safety Executive, an independent watchdog group for work-related health, safety and illness. The HSE advice to crane owners and operators can certainly be applied in the U.S…(Read More)
The 2014 First-Quarter Non-Residential Construction Index offers good news for construction projects this year. The research, compiled by global engineering and construction consultancy FMI, finds that 49 percent of survey participants expect construction to grow up to five percent in 2014. That figure is up from just 18 percent a year ago, according…(Read More)
