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HEADLINES ADDED: April 30, 2008
Modular firm fined £100k after "pointless" death
A Liverpool modular building specialist has been fined £100,000 after a construction worker was killed and another seriously injured when a half-ton steel lifting frame fell from an overhead crane.... Read More
Architects must encourage real progress on green building, not ‘greenwash’
Buildings are the biggest source of emissions and energy consumption in Canada. They play a major role in the environmentally unfriendly trends that project that energy consumption will increase by 37 per cent and greenhouses gases by 36 per cent over the next 20 years in North America alone.... Read More
Homebuilders Association’s New Green Building Program: Blue Skies Ahead?
In a February 20, 2008, article, Engineering News-Record reports that the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) is working with the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) to introduce a new voluntary and flexible green building program that will apply to both new home construction and remodeling projects. According to a home builder in Austin, Texas, "houses will be scored on a point system using a ‘Turbo Tax’ approach after being inspected by third-party verifiers trained by the NAHB Research Center."NAHB plans to publish the new ANSI green-building standard in... Read More
"Free lancing" procurement for campus construction projects may lead to criminal investigation in Maryland
State legislators in Maryland have been grilling Morgan State University officials after an audit brought the university's method of construction spending into question. As reported in the Baltimore Sun and in The Chronicle of Higher Education, the legislative audit revealed that Morgan State, which is not part of the University of Maryland system but receives state funding, "had padded a $4.3-million contract with the Whiting Turner Construction Company with a $3.1-million cushion and now cannot account for part of that money. The audit also found that Whiting Turner had... Read More
Construction bid-rigging timeline
This page provides a timeline of the five-year OFT (Office of Fair Trading) investigation into construction bid-rigging, including links to all key stories during this period.... Read More
Fair Housing Act Accessibility: Examples of Covered Multi-Family Dwellings
As litigation over Fair Housing Act (FHA) design and construction accessibility requirements continues to increase around the country, we are getting more and more questions about what kinds of multi-family housing are, in fact, subject to these requirements.To start with, the accessibility design and construction requirements apply to all buildings built for first occupancy after March 13, 1991, that fall under the definition of "covered multifamily dwellings (CMFDs)". CMFDs are:all dwelling units inside buildings that have one or more elevators if there are at least four dwelling units in... Read More
Bid-rigging: Carillion, Kier, ISG respond to OFT accusations
Some of the biggest names implicated in the OFT bid-rigging investigation into construction have issued their responses.... Read More
Kent Police to crack down on site thefts
Kent Police is to launch a major crackdown on heavy machinery thefts from building sites.... Read More
Lean & 5S's in Construction #33
Lean Leaders What is a ‘Lean Leader?’ What type of leader is needed to successfully implement Lean? Lou English, a noted Lean consultant, shares his thoughts on this: read more... Read More
Housebuilders in the doghouse with Rachel Hunter
A new market has emerged for housebuilders looking to add value to upmarket properties – the deluxe doghouse.... Read More
SouthShore Condominiums Transforming Newport Skyline
Rising high above the shoreline of the Ohio River is a new luxury condominium project in Newport, Ky. Called SouthShore, this Capital Investment Group Inc. development is being built on a 2.4-acre site along the south side of Riverboat Row just east of the Interstate 471 "Big Mac" bridge. SouthShore will transform the Newport skyline while offering spectacular views of Cincinnati.... Read More
Bid-rigging: even more OFT investigations spark backlash
An announcement of further investigations and raids on the supermarket sector by the Office of Fair Trading (OFT) has sparked a backlash against the watchdog.... Read More
Financial turmoil restrains on construction ease
Overall, the collapse of the alternative residential mortgage market is no longer the principal restraint on construction spending. Slowing spending growth in the economy took over that role several months ago.... Read More
U.S. Unsold New Homes Inventory Climbs to 11 Months
In the latest monthly report, for March 2008, from the U.S. Census Bureau, the number-of-months supply of unsold new homes has shot up to 11.0. This compares with a market equilibrium figure of about 4.0. The depth of the collapse in U.S. housing markets has been stunning. At the current sales rate for new single-family housing, everyone could simply go and sit on a beach for almost a year, then start over fresh in eleven months. − except we’ve all got to try to make a living.... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: April 29, 2008
Persimmon imposes freeze on new sites
Persimmon has announced that it will not be opening any new sites until the mortgage market improves.... Read More
Scottish fuel strike causes site closures
A strike among Scottish fuel workers has forced some construction sites to stop work in the region, it has emerged.... Read More
Change or Die: 10 Keys to a Successful Sales Transformation
If your organization is contemplating an overhaul of your sales function, study up on these 10 principles to help you minimize your risks.... Read More
Planned Construction Spending in Canada in 2008 to be +5.0%
Statistics Canada has recently made available the results from its latest survey of major owners entitled Private and Public Investment in Canada, Intentions 2008. The results reveal much about what is going on in the country and the regional shifts that are occurring. Total current dollar construction investment in Canada in 2008 is expected to be $219 billion. This will be a 5.0% increase from the previous year. The 2007 increase versus 2006 had been a similar +6.0%, but the mix will be quite different this year.... Read More
Construction Takes Another Hit
The value of new construction starts during the first quarter of 2008 was 19% lower than the first quarter of 2007, according to McGraw-Hill Construction, which includes ENR.... Read More
N.Y.C. Buildings Commissioner Resigns After Spate of Accidents
Amid growing pressure and swirling controversy following a recent spate of high-rise construction accidents and fatalities, New York City's buildings commissioner resigned on April 22.... Read More
Equipment Demand May be Slipping
US construction equipment manufacturers continue to be in a “maintenance” market as they have been for about a year. Shipment and orders are varying month by month in a very narrow range. They are averaging high enough to avoid discount pricing but not high enough to permit the margins they realized in the 2005-06 equipment boom.... Read More
HSE probe mystery construction death
Mystery surrounds the death of a 24-year-old lorry driver found dead on a Scottish construction site.... Read More
Heritage skills gap threatens Britain's historic buildings
Millions of old buildings are under threat due to a lack of skilled heritage workers.... Read More
Grand Designs to blame for boring box homes
Grand Designs presenter Kevin McCloud has blamed his own show for encouraging a boom in building boring “white box” homes.... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: April 28, 2008
Professional Liability Insurance for BIM
... Read More
Builders Under Credit Squeeze for Loans to Build Homes
The mortgage credit crunch has spilled over into land acquisition, land development and home construction (AD&C) lending, increasing the challenges faced by builders in the current housing downturn. The NAHB has petitioned Congress for relief.... Read More
BLOG: Billionaire Developer Roski Pushes New L.A. Stadium--Joe Florkowski
Billionaire developer Ed Roski announced at a news conference on Thursday that he will build a stadium to bring professional football back to Los Angeles.... Read More
CanaData’s Latest Housing Starts Forecast: 210,000 Units in 2008
In its latest housing starts forecast package (see accompanying tables), CanaData has revised its 2008 total Canada figure up from 200,000 units to 210,000 units. This may still prove to be conservative. Housing starts through the first quarter of this year have averaged 246,000 units (seasonally adjusted at an annual rate), which is +9.0 versus the same period last year. But there are signs of weakening. Tables record Cana Data’s latest housing starts forecasts for Canada, the provinces and six major cities.... Read More
24th Annual CONEX Show
More than 4,500 contractors, sub-contractors, public works officials, landscapers, and more attended the 24th annual CONEX show on February 6 and 7. This is the third year the event was housed in the Connecticut Convention Center in Hartford, Conn. — a convenient location for the area's largest construction show.... Read More
2008 Missouri/Kansas ACPA Award Winners
The Missouri/Kansas Chapter of the ACPA honored exceptional concrete pavement professionals at the 28th Annual Portland Cement Concrete Pavement Conference & Annual Back to Basics Seminar on February 26 – 28, 2008, in Kansas City, Missouri. The awards program encourages high-quality workmanship in every concrete pavement project and serves as a forum for sharing information about high...... Read More
BCA Construction & Design Expo
Building Contractors Association of Northeast Indiana (BCA) recently hosted its 31st annual Construction & Design Expo at the Allen County War Memorial Coliseum in Fort Wayne. The expo featured over 150 exhibitors showcasing a variety of products, tools, equipment, and services for building professionals throughout the tri-state area.... Read More
Bid-rigging: latest developments in OFT construction investigation
The OFT investigation into bid-rigging in construction is the biggest scandal to hit the industry in years. This page will keep you updated with all the latest developments.... Read More
Bid-rigging: even more OFT investigations spark backlash
An announcement of further investigations and raids on the supermarket sector by the Office of Fair Trading (OFT) has sparked a backlash against the watchdog.... Read More
16 mile bridge could link Jersey to France
Proposals have been made to link the Island of Jersey with mainland France via a bridge.... Read More
Sir Anthony Bamford tops construction rich list
A number of big names from the construction industry made it into the 2008 Rich List, published by the Sunday Times.... Read More
Repair work begins on Pitt River bridge
A nine-metre tower of rebar, one of the support pylons for the Pitt River bridge, fell over in the early hours of April 14 when a crane came into contact with a guy wire. Despite this setback the bridge is scheduled for completion in late 2009.... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: April 26, 2008
Bid-rigging: CJ editor Emma Penny takes questions on BBC Radio 4
When the story about the OFT's investigation into bid-rigging in the construction industry broke last Thursday, CJ editor Emma Penny appeared on BBC Radio 4's the World at One to answer questions.... Read More
Company director charged with manslaughter
A company director has been charged with the manslaughter of a Chinese man who died after a fall on a Norfolk building site.... Read More
Construction & Built Environment Diploma: 70 firms sign up
More than 70 companies have now committed to delivering the Construction and the Built Environment Diploma – which is equivalent to A levels.... Read More
2007’s Largest Private Builder Announced
Builder Magazine released a sneak peak of the results from its well-known Builder 100 survey this week. According to the results, David Weekley Homes rode its Texas markets to close the most homes of any private for-profit builder in 2007. In 2006, Weekley came within 300 closings of then leader Shea Homes. The jump last year landed Weekley at number 16 on 2007’s Builder 100 list (coming in early May), a gain of two spots. Weekley closed 4,587 homes last year. Shea, however, has not handed over all the reins to Weekley. In... Read More
Recycle When You Remodel
When remodeling a home, there is often a large amount of construction waste. NARI’s Green Remodeling program offers remodeling contractors across the country a unique opportunity to incorporate cost-saving and earth-sustaining green concepts into their clients’ homes. Here's how.... Read More
The Push for Greener Home Remodeling
Green remodeling practices have become more popular as homeowners cope with ever-increasing energy costs, health concerns and diminishing natural resources.... Read More
Tool Launched for Railing and Deck Design and Estimates
This software for building industry professionals can help create more authentic designs, more accurate material lists and cost estimates.... Read More
Innovative Green Home in Omena, Mich.
Danny Forster’s passion for architecture and innovation is evident as he explains the technologies, techniques and materials that help him achieve his goal of designing a home like none other. ... Read More
Two dead in falls from London building sites
Two men have died after falling from building sites at Westminster and Wandsworth in London.... Read More
Bid-rigging: CJ editor Emma Penny appears on Sky News
Contract Journal editor Emma Penny was interviewed on Sky News by Jeremy Thompson on 17 April regarding the OFT bid-rigging investigation in construction. View the whole interview below:... Read More
Sustainable Construction: Green Building Design and Delivery, 2nd Edition
By Charles J. Kibert. Wiley and Sons. Price: $75. Publish Date: 10/2007... Read More
2006 Uniform Mechanical Code Study Guide UMC
By 30-60M. IAPMO. Price: $65.75. Publish Date: 01/2006... Read More
Polish workers returning home
The tide of migration is turning and the construction industry could lose many of its Polish workers following the launch of a Polish government campaign to encourage builders to return home. Newspaper adverts and a glossy brochure at Polish cultural centres is talking up the opportunities in Poland which is experiencing a building boom and [...]... Read More
The "green building" revolution may be upon us
The San Francisco Chronicle ran an interesting article on the trend toward "green building" yesterday. Increasingly, cities are looking to require privately developed buildings to comply with a series of environment-friendly construction elements. Pleasanton was one of the first cities to adopt such requirements, Boston and Washington D.C. recently joined the movement, and San Francisco is looking to do the same. While green building may increase construction costs up to 2%, the savings from reduced energy and water needs, reduced waste and reduced maintenance could exceed this amount by 10 times... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: April 25, 2008
Bid-rigging: Councils may sue, says APSE
A not-for-profit local government body has warned that councils may sue contractors for losses if they are found guilty of bid-rigging.... Read More
Two builders rescued after well shaft plunge
Emergency services have rescued two men who fell 12m down a well shaft at a derelict school in Sheffield.... Read More
First-Quarter Housing Starts Up in Majority of Canada’s Cities
Despite severe winter weather, Toronto (+60%) was a leader along with Calgary (+68%) in first-quarter 2008 starts. Ottawa (+37%), Montréal (+26%) and Vancouver (+19%) also had gains. In all five of those centres, it was multiple-unit starts that pulled up their totals. Only Edmonton (-31%) had a tail-off in combined starts. There has been a large “disconnect” of late between singles and multiples. Furthermore, sales of existing homes are weakening and this has implications for new home starts and prices.... Read More
Latest Bank of Canada survey shows cooler outlook for construction
The most recent (Q2/2008) Bank of Canada Business Outlook Survey reinforced the view that construction activity in Canada will slow in 2008 compared to 2007.... Read More
USFA Releases Report on I-35W Bridge Collapse
The U.S.Fire Administration's report examines the area's emergency preparedness and response to the Aug. 1, 2007, bridge collapse in Minneapolis that killed 13 people and injured 121 others.... Read More
Shifting Union Alliances Trigger Move to End NCA
The National Construction Alliance, the alternative labor group formed in 2006 by three unions that broke away from the AFL-CIO's Building and Construction Trades Dept., will dissolve by month's end, says a spokesman for one of the unions, the International Union of Operating Engineers (IUOE).... Read More
Madison's Magnificent University Square
It is the largest mixed-use project in Madison, Wis., history — a 1.1-million-square-foot facility that combines retail space, housing, University of Wisconsin offices, and parking in a 13-story complex now under construction in the heart of Wisconsin's capital city. Owned jointly by Executive Management, Inc.... Read More
New Asphalt Plant On Line In Fort Myers
When Ajax Paving and Anderson Columbia entered into a joint venture arrangement to widen I-75 from south of Fort Myers to Naples — a $400-million-plus multiyear project — it was the state's largest highway project ever. Lead contractor Anderson Columbia will handle the excavation and base portion of the project, while Ajax will be responsible for asphalt paving.... Read More
CFA Piles In "Surf City, USA"
Huntington Beach, in Orange County, Southern California, is known throughout the world as "Surf City, USA." Within a short walking distance from the beach front and its famous pier, a 34-acre mixed-use development is under construction. But early pile construction hit a few snags. The original design for the foundations of underground parking and other structures at the new site was based on th...... Read More
Concern over 'zero carbon' homes
UK home-owners are not prepared to make the changes needed to live in ‘zero carbon’ homes, according to the NHBC.... Read More
Romeo becomes Juliet at Farmer Construction’s residential project
Built on the site of former Victoria landmark Romeo’s Pizza, the Juliet building’s 14-storey, cast-in-place concrete structure will offer space for 95 suites and ground-level retail.... Read More
Six Secrets to Designing Winning Sales Presentations
You have 13 seconds or less to make a positive first impression on your audience that may ultimately lead to a sale. So how can you effectively convey your message with so little time?... Read More
July 22 Public Hearing Set for Construction Confined Spaces Rule
OSHA will start an "informal public hearing" on the rule at 10 a.m. July 22 in Washington, D.C. If a second or third day is necessary, the hearing will begin at 9 a.m. those days.... Read More
Polish construction workers lured home
The construction industry could lose its Polish workers, if a campaign to lure the migrants back home is successful.... Read More
Three quarters of home owners recommend HBF home
Three quarters of new home owners would recommend a Home Builder’s Federation member to a friend, a recent HBF survey has revealed.... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: April 24, 2008
World War II Museum Expansion
Satterfield & Pontikes LLC Construction Group is in the middle of foundation work for a $42-million Theater-USO Complex and Canteen that will be part of the National World War II Museum in New Orleans, La. The construction is one of six new pavilions planned for the museum. A $300-million expansion is planned over several phases with expected completion in 2014.... Read More
Bid-rigging: OFT pays supermarket £100,000 over false price-fixing charge
The Office of Fair Trading (OFT) has been forced to apologise to Morrisons supermarket and pay it £100,000 following inaccuracies in a press release it issued last September.... Read More
Hitting EU's energy targets will cost Brits at least £2,000
It will cost every household in the UK at least £2,000 to comply with the new European Union target of producing 15% of all energy from renewable sources by 2020.... Read More
Twelve experts sign up for eco-towns challenge
Twelve experts from the worlds of design, the environment and transport have signed up to join the Eco-towns Challenge, playing a key role in shaping the future of the new towns programme.... Read More
SMEs ‘cynical of benefits of going green’
High costs involved with being more environmentally friendly are making a growing number of small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) more cynical to the business benefits of going green.... Read More
CanaData’s Latest Housing Starts Forecast: 210,000 Units in 2008
In its latest housing starts forecast package (see accompanying tables), CanaData has revised its 2008 total Canada figure up from 200,000 units to 210,000 units. This may still prove to be conservative. Housing starts through the first quarter of this year have averaged 246,000 units (seasonally adjusted at an annual rate), which is +9.0 versus the same period last year. But there are signs of weakening. Tables record Cana Data’s latest housing starts forecasts for Canada, the provinces and six major cities.... Read More
Bid-rigging: Thomas Fish has debts of over £5m
Nottinghamshire-based Thomas Fish, one of the companies alleged to have been involved in anti-competitive tendering practices by the Office of Fair Trading (OFT), has debts of more than £5m, its administrators say.... Read More
Housebuilding slumps below WWII figures in Wales
The number of homes being built in Wales has fallen to its lowest since World War II, according to the Home Builders Federation (HBF).... Read More
Bee orchid home sells for record £7.2m
An eco-house shaped like a bee orchid has been sold for a world record £7.2m for a country home.... Read More
Company director charged with manslaughter
A company director has been charged with the manslaughter of a Chinese man who died after a fall on a Norfolk building site.... Read More
Changing Role of the Construction Leader
Brad Humphrey explains the emerging trend of a “changing of the guard” in construction leaders. As the industry loses many of its baby boomers that hold roles such as supervisor, foreman, etc. the knowledge and technical experience is leaving with them. Younger, tech-savvy personnel are now filling these positions and bringing a different work ethic and new set of skills.... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: April 23, 2008
Bramall Lane evacuated after explosion on GMI Construction site
Emergency services have set up a 200m exclusion zone around Sheffield United Football Club after a gas cylinder exploded on a construction site at a nearby hotel yesterday.... Read More
Eco-towns: Living a greener future - consultation paper
Department for Communities and Local Government (DCLG) has released a new consultation paper on eco-towns.... Read More
Eco-town shortlist announced
The government has announced a shortlist of 15 locations for the first eco-towns in England.... Read More
Bid-rigging: Thomas Fish flounders
One of the companies alleged to have been involved in anti-competitive tendering practices has gone into administration, it was announced today.... Read More
Construction Claims Seminar
The East Tennessee Section is hosting a 2-day Construction Claims Seminar on May 15-16. We are very fortunate to have Jim Zack, CFCC as the instructor (bio). A ...... Read More
Bid-rigging: Nigel Griffiths demands procurement inquiry
Former construction minister Nigel Griffiths is calling for an inquiry into public sector tendering practices in the wake of the Office of Fair Trading’s damning report on industry bid rigging.... Read More
Bid-rigging: Connaught relaxed after being included in OFT list
Connaught has given a stiff rebuttal to its name being included in the list of 112 firms allegedly involved in bid-rigging activities, including cover pricing, announced by the Office of Fair Trading (OFT) last week.... Read More
Back to basics for 'green' Afghan building
Low-carbon bricks made of compressed earth are being used to rebuild homes in Afghanistan.... Read More
Second flatpack homes site announced
Developers are set to submit proposals to build the UK's second development of eco-friendly flatpack homes.... Read More
Plumber's Licensing Study Guide, 2nd Edition: Ace the Journeyman and Master Plumbing Exams! Based on the IPC 2006
By R. Dodge Woodson. McGraw Hill Book Company. Price: $39.95. Publish Date: 11/2006... Read More
Managing the Small Construction Business: A Hands on Guide, 2nd Edition
By Journal of Light Construction. Hanley Wood, LLC. Price: $34.95. Publish Date: 01/2005... Read More
DeWalt Plumbing Licensing Exam Guide: Based on thte IPC 2006
By American Contractors Exam Services. Delmar Publishers. Price: $29.95. Publish Date: 01/2007... Read More
New LEED Canada model tracks building performance
The Canada Green Building Council is collaborating with leading commercial property owners in development of a new building performance tracking and management model.... Read More
San Francisco leads green-building wave
San Francisco has set up a task force with the job of expanding green-building standards for major new private construction projects. Now a set of new rules will require projects to earn green points by introducing energy and water-saving measures. If they don’t, they may not get their building permits.... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: April 22, 2008
Madonna University Expands
An over 60,000-square-foot Science and Media Center is being constructed for Madonna University in Livonia. The cost of the project is approximately $17.5 million. The stand-alone building will include 15 science laboratories, a 1,300-square-foot television studio, and a 170-square-foot radio studio.... Read More
Green Roofing Upgrades Atlanta Building
Strong design geometry combining a fully landscaped garden roof, outdoor dining terraces, two new 56-foot dome skylights, and a walkway connection to the office tower highlight the recently completed green roof renovation project at Atlanta's Northpark 500, leased and managed by CB Richard Ellis. The 18-story building, built in 1989, is one of three buildings comprising Northpark Town Center, a...... Read More
Internship Paves The Way For Construction Career
During this school year, Decorious Barnes works for a department store, a decent job for a student. But last summer, Decorious got to work at a job he absolutely loved. He wielded a sledgehammer during demolition time helping to renovate Campbell High School in Smyrna as a Construction Education Foundation of Georgia (CEFGA) Internship student, working for Joe Tuggle of Swofford Construction Inc.... Read More
Partnerships in Action
The value and benefit of Minnesota OSHA partnerships began with the Construction Health and Safety Excellence (CHASE) program in February 2003. The oldest partnership was developed between Minnesota OSHA and the non-profit construction advocacy organization, Associated General Contractors of Minnesota (AGC).... Read More
I-35W Bridge Collapse, Week 36
Eight months after the I-35W Bridge collapse, survivors say the thoughts of it still take a toll on their emotional health. At a conference of mental health workers, a few survivors and some rescuers talked about their battles with psychological strain and other fears that haunt them. Organizers are from the Hennepin County Medical Center, which took in most of the bodies and survivors during the night of August 1.... Read More
Bid-rigging: CC demands clarification from OFT
The Construction Confederation (CC) has called on the Office of Fair Trading (OFT) to make clearer its allegations against 112 contractors alleged of being involved in anti-competitive tendering practices.... Read More
Construction workloads plummet
Construction workloads have fallen to their lowest levels since spring 2006 and builders do not expect the picture to improve for the rest of the year.... Read More
OFT alleges companies engaged in bid rigging
Following one of the largest ever Competition Act investigations, the OFT last week issued a Statement of Objections against 112 firms in the construction sector in England. The OFT alleges companies have engaged in bid rigging activities, and in particular cover pricing. It said the firms colluded among themselves while bidding for contracts, leading to [...]... Read More
LA To Adopt Strict Green Building Ordinances
Earlier this month, two Los Angeles City Council committees passed green building ordinances that could eventually change the face of the city. The LA Times reports that “under the ordinance, privately built projects over 50,000 square feet…must meet a ’standard of sustainability’ by incorporating a checklist of green practices into their building plans.” Both commercial and residential developers are affected by the change, and a large number of developers and building trade groups endorse it. The U.S. Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) checklist has... Read More
Construction Of World’s Largest Arch Bridge To Begin This Month
Home of the tallest building in the world, the first 7-star hotel in the world, and the first man-made resort island chains in the world, Dubai will soon to add something else to its impressive resume: the world’s largest arch bridge. American firm Fxfowle International’s design was selected by Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority as the winner in an international design competition. The bridge will span a full mile and tower 670 feet above the earth. With 12 lanes for traffic, the bridge will support traffic in excess of 2,000... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: April 19, 2008
Bid-rigging: just 9 firms alleged to have benefited financially
Only nine of the 112 contractors named as suspects in the OFT's investigation into bid-rigging are alleged to have benefited financially from dodgy dealings, it has emerged today.... Read More
Weston Group pays trade creditors in just eight days
Weston Group puts most of the construction industry to shame with the speed in which it pays its trade creditors - just eight days.... Read More
Bid-rigging: Willmott Dixon 'disappointed' to be named in investigation
Willmott Dixon is "disappointed" to be named as one of 112 contractors under suspicion in an OFT investigation into cover pricing, it said today in a statement.... Read More
Bid-rigging: Councils may sue, says APSE
A not-for-profit local government body has warned that councils may sue contractors for losses if they are found guilty of bid-rigging.... Read More
Bid-rigging: Construction Confederation calls for 'sensible' response
The Construction Confederation (CC) has appealed for the Office of Fair Trading (OFT) to come up with a "sensible and proportionate" response to its four-year investigation into bid rigging.... Read More
Online Construction-Degree Programs Gain, But Some Educators Worry About Content
As construction professionals struggle to balance shifting industry markets, not to mention their own workplaces and home lives, finding time to bolster or change career directions is tougher than ever.... Read More
Best marketing ideas from the archives
With the downturn in remodeling, marketing is more important than ever. So here are what I think are some of the best marketing articles we've run ...... Read More
U.S. Housing Starts Plumb the Depths in March
This week’s report on U.S. housing starts from the Census Bureau pegged the March 2008 level at only 947,000 units, seasonally adjusted at an annual rate. This is the first time U.S. housing starts have dropped below one million units since May 1991. The decline from the latest peak level of housing starts in January 2006, at 2.3 million units, to the present level has been nearly 60%. Nor is there much “sunshine” to be taken from the other two key measures of housing markets that are published along... Read More
Twenty Large Upcoming Residential and Transportation Terminal Construction Projects – April 2008
The accompanying table shows 10 of the largest upcoming residential construction projects in the U.S. and 10 of the largest transportation terminal projects. They are all in the planning stage and are mainly new projects, but may also involve additions and/or alterations. Shopping centers, hotels, office buildings, medical buildings, educational buildings, libraries and museums, sports and entertainment complexes, industrial projects and government buildings will all be covered on a rotating basis.... Read More
Slowed Permit Levels are Part of the Housing Cycle
Single-family construction is down 63% from the peak. Construction is unlikely to fall much further, and should rebound quickly if this cycle follows the pattern of previous cycles.... Read More
Protecto Wrap Company
Super Stick Building Tape is Protecto Wrap's strongest high-performance window and door flashing tape to date... Read More
Birse Civils scoop 11 Considerate Constructors awards
Birse Civils came out on top at today’s Considerate Constructors awards, scooping 11 nods for projects, including the Most Considerate Site.... Read More
Chavs abuse Bullock builders
Construction workers employed by Bullock were been forced retreat from a North Lincolnshire estate after a number of "serious incidents".... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: April 18, 2008
Economic environment improves for homebuilders
Market conditions improved over the last month for new residential housing but continued to worsen for residential remodeling. In the new home market, affordability continued to improve and is now at high level that set off the 2004-06 housing boom. This is the consequence of falling mortgage rates and now rapidly falling home prices and still rising consumer income. However, income growth has slowed. Real income growth declined in February and is expected to be steady to declining for several more months. Also, there was a reduction in the... Read More
Bid-rigging: Balfour Beatty granted leniency by OFT
Balfour Beatty has been granted leniency by the Office of Fair Trading in its bid-rigging investigation, thereby reducing any fines which may be imposed on Balfour Beatty or any of its operating business.... Read More
Longest Stress Ribbon Bridge Takes Shape In San Diego
Foundation work is almost complete on a 990-ft-long stress ribbon bridge over San Diego County’s Lake Hodges.... Read More
Dubai Prepares to Build Record-Breaking Arch Structure
Already home to the world's tallest building, Dubai is preparing for a record-breaking arch bridge. Inspired by desert dunes, the flowing structure of Dubai Creek's new bridge will include a 667-m span, outreaching by 125-m China's current record holder, the Chaotianmen Yangtze River crossing.... Read More
Bid-rigging: latest developments
The OFT named 112 construction companies yesterday (17 April), alleging they have been involved in bid-rigging activities, including cover pricing. Catch up with the latest developments here.... Read More
Bid-rigging: just 9 firms alleged to have benefited financially
Only nine of the 112 contractors named as suspects in the OFT's investigation into bid-rigging are alleged to have benefited financially from dodgy dealings, it has emerged today.... Read More
Bid-rigging: UCATT calls for “maximum possible penalties ” to guilty firms
UCATT has called on any companies found guilty of bid-rigging by the Office of Fair Trading (OFT) to receive the “maximum possible penalties ”.... Read More
Bid-rigging: cowboy practices 'widespread' says POD
The Office of Fair Trading’s (OFT) list of 112 firms allegedly engaged in bid-rigging and ‘cover pricing’ “shows how widespread cowboy practices are in the industry”, according to online advice firm the Property Owners Directory (POD).... Read More
Bid-rigging: ODA plays down accusations of cover pricing
The Olympic Delivery Authority (ODA) has played down today’s announcement by the Office of Fair Trading (OFT) that Balfour Beatty, its contractor for the £242m Aquatics Centre, has been accused of being involved in bid-rigging and 'cover pricing' activities.... Read More
Bid-rigging: maximum penalties 'unlikely'
It is unlikely that the OFT will impose the maximum fine of 10% of contractors' relevant turnover, even if they were found guilty of bid rigging, the anti-corruption body has admitted.... Read More
OSHA to Provide EHS Training for Alabama Gulf Coast Construction Employers
OSHA will provide free safety and health training to employers on Friday, April 18, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. CDT during the 3rd annual Gulf Coast Construction Safety Conference at the Greater Gulf Coast States Fairgrounds in Mobile.... Read More
The High Cost of Workplace Tragedies: Leading Employees Through Crisis
It can happen here. The recent crane accidents have emphasized this sad truth.... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: April 17, 2008
Costain M25 death: police investigate reversing lorry
Kent Police and the Health and Safety Executive are understood to have identified a reversing lorry as key to the death of a 38-year-old Costain surveyor on a road project in Kent.... Read More
2007 showed the big getting bigger in construction
As the top 10 biggest earners doubled pre-tax profit, 2007 proved to be a bumper year for construction. And with acquisition the order of the day, the big are getting bigger. John Leitch explains.... Read More
OFT update: UCATT calls for “maximum possible penalties ” to guilty firms
UCATT has called on any companies found guilty of bid-rigging by the Office of Fair Trading (OFT) to receive the “maximum possible penalties ”.... Read More
Construction bid-rigging Q&A
An overview of theOFT (Office of Fair Trading) investigation into construction bid-rigging, including: background to the investigation; a list of all major construction companies implicated; and links to all key stories during this period.... Read More
The 112 firms accused by the OFT bid-rigging investigation
A list of the 112 construction companies named by the Office of Fair Trading in a Statement of Objection (SO) , alleging they have engaged in bid-rigging activities and in ‘cover pricing’.... Read More
OFT investigation: Construction Confederation calls for 'sensible' response
The Construction Confederation (CC) has appealed for the Office of Fair Trading (OFT) to come up with a "sensible and proportionate" response to its four-year investigation into bid rigging.... Read More
Bid rigging investigation: FMB slams big companies
The Federation of Master Builders (FMB) has reacted to the OFT's investigation into bid rigging in construction by slamming big contractors, accusing them of seeming to "employ the same sort of underhand tactics" as cowboy builders.... Read More
Bio-Architecture
By Javier Senosiain. Butterworth-Heinemann. Price: $68.95. Publish Date: 05/2003... Read More
SC Supreme Court Allows Low Bidder on Government Project to Increase Bid after Bid Opening
This article was contributed by R. Bryan Barnes of my law firm. The State of South Carolina launched into uncharted territory when it disallowed the bid protest of the second low bidder in the case of Martin Engineering, Inc. v. Lexington School District One, 365 S.C. 1, 615 S.E.2d 110 (2005). The school district put a school renovation project out for bid. Sharpe Construction was the low bidder and Martin Engineering was second. When the bids were opened, Sharpe Construction asked to add $613,000 to it $16,000,000 bid saying... Read More
Maryland Legislature Caps Retainage
At the end of the 2008 General Session in Annapolis, the General Assembly passed Senate Bill 313, which places a 5% retainage cap on construction contracts in excess of $250,000.00, when a performance and payment bond is furnished. The bill requires the contractor to furnish 100% security to guarantee performance of the contract and 100% security to guarantee payment for labor and materials. Further, the retention proceeds of any payment due from a contractor to a subcontractor may not exceed the percentage of retainage from the owner to the... Read More
Obama’s National Infrastructure Reinvestment Bank
Democratic presidential contender Barack Obama recently spoke at the Building and Constructions Trades’ Annual Legislative Conference where he called for a National Infrastructure Reinvestment Bank that will invest $60 billion over ten years and generate millions of new jobs. I’m encouraged to see one of the presidential hopefuls addressing the needs for increased infrastructure spending. Before I or anyone should jump on the Obama bandwagon after this declaration, I would like to see his outline as to how to accomplish this. As it is always easy to say what... Read More
Equipment Theft Update
Mike Miller, police liaison with LoJack, discusses the recent equipment theft report released by LoJack, gives some tips on how construction business owners can protect their equipment and why construction equipment is a target for thieves.... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: April 16, 2008
Getting More Green by Going Green: New Study Finds Strong Economic Case for Developing Green Buildings
In recent weeks, there have been a number of news articles published on the growing trend among owners, developers and contractors in the area of "green" building and "sustainable development". Until recently, most buildings that obtained LEED certification were mostly found in the areas of higher education and government according to the U.S. Green Building Council ("USGBC"). That trend is changing in part due to the results of new studies being conducted to examine the business case for "going green".In a recent study published by the CoStar Group ("CoStar"),... Read More
Top 10 and Trend Graph – March 2008
The attached table records the 10 largest construction project starts in Canada in March 2008, according to dollar volume. In the latest month, there were four projects in Alberta and three each in Ontario and British Columbia. Also included is the latest trend graph on starts. This looks at 12-month moving totals (again based on dollar volume) of the two major non-residential building categories in Canada − total ICI starts and engineering work. ICI stands for industrial, commercial and institutional.... Read More
Go Cyber Green! Click and vote for best green building products and ideas
Green Log Awards uses viral online campaign to get votes, raise awareness of sustainable building solutions... Read More
Paslode
The T250A-F16 by Paslode is a well-balanced, lightweight finisher with a unique construction and nail delivery system... Read More
ASHRAE creates “net zero” energy building tools
The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) is intent on developing tools to help designers create “net zero” energy buildings by 2020.... Read More
Modular firm fined £100k after "pointless" death
A Liverpool modular building specialist has been fined £100,000 after a construction worker was killed and another seriously injured when a half-ton steel lifting frame fell from an overhead crane.... Read More
ASSE Announces New Construction Safety Standard
To prevent injuries and illness among construction workers exposed to hazards associated with the installation and extraction of piles during construction and demolition operations, the American Society of Safety Engineers (ASSE) recently announced the approval of the new voluntary consensus standard “Safety Requirements for Pile Installation and Extraction Operations” (ANSI/ASSE A10.19-2008).... Read More
Bluebook Cost Guide 2008: Residential and Light Commercial Cost Guide for Cleaning, Reconstruction and Repairs, Pocket Edition
By BlueBook. Builders Book. Price: $55.25. Publish Date: 04/2008... Read More
Calgary sees rapid rise in number of multi-family residential permits
The construction of multi-family residential units increased rapidly, while the construction of single-family units took a dive for the first quarter of 2008 in Calgary.... Read More
Architects must encourage real progress on green building, not ‘greenwash’
Buildings are the biggest source of emissions and energy consumption in Canada. They play a major role in the environmentally unfriendly trends that project that energy consumption will increase by 37 per cent and greenhouses gases by 36 per cent over the next 20 years in North America alone.... Read More
Construction industry’s pay-when-paid debate continues
Transferred risk, due diligence, ethics and who is the bad guy — these are the common themes that emerge in any discussion of pay-when-paid practices in construction. But how pay-when-paid is viewed often depends on where someone is in the industry ‘food chain.’... Read More
Campbell Construction makes ‘emergency addition’ to Victoria General Hospital
Premier Gordon Campbell recently broke ground at the new $18.8 million addition to the Victoria General Hospital.... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: April 15, 2008
Longest Stress Ribbon Bridge Takes Shape In San Diego
Foundation work is almost complete on a 990-ft-long stress ribbon bridge over San Diego County’s Lake Hodges.... Read More
Is the housing market stabilizing?
The housing market remained depressed over the last month but appears to have stabilized at the bottom of the cycle. Housing starts and sales have both increased slightly since December, inventories of homes for sales have declined significantly and homebuilders have slowed work on homes under construction. Home prices are now falling quickly, a necessary condition to bring buyers back into the market.... Read More
Construction Starts Increase in March
Reed Construction Data (RCD) announced today that the year-to-date value of construction starts through March 2008, excluding residential contracts, totaled $62.370 billion, 6.6% less than in the same period last year, but 36% higher than the February total. The March gain was entirely for non-residential buildings. Commercial starts doubled and institutional starts rose 19%.... Read More
Steel prices jump higher
As expected, steel prices are now soaring. There was a flurry of price increase announcements in the last week, some immediate and some for May 1st. For example, rebar and structural prices increased about $150 per ton, sheet and plate prices about $85 per ton and pipe prices as much as $100 per ton. These are the base prices. The surcharges are jumping as well, doubling since December due to mostly to much higher scrap prices.... Read More
MASCON's 19th Annual Show
Attendance was up 10 percent this year at the 19th annual MASCON show. More than 4,600 construction professionals attended the show on Friday, January 25 and Saturday, January 26 at the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center in downtown Boston. The revised Friday/Saturday show schedule accommodated manufacturers and attendees alike because equipment and personnel were more accessible for viewi...... Read More
Old Hospital Becomes New Training Facility
Hay Construction will soon be completing major renovations on the former hospital building at Myrtle Beach Air Force Base, which closed in the 1990s. The old hospital will now have a new mission as a training facility for such medical fields ...... Read More
New Indianapolis Airport's Works of Art
Creators of terrazzo and glass artworks for the New Indianapolis Airport terminal described their projects and the installation processes during a recent tour of the facility. The works were commissioned by the Indianapolis Airport Authority.... Read More
Builder guilty of manslaughter following poisoning
A builder who blocked a boiler pipe, poisoning a man, has been found guilty of manslaughter by a jury.... Read More
Burning builder saved by puddle
Safety chiefs are warning contractors about the risk of live electricity cables after a workman caught fire during a cable explosion and had to put himself out in a puddle of rainwater.... Read More
Principles of Foundation Engineering, 6th Edition
By Braja M. Das. Brooks Cole. Price: $145.95. Publish Date: 07/2006... Read More
World’s first wind-powered mega structure
The world’s first wind-powered mega structure has just been completed. The Bahrain World Trade Center is the first commercial development with integrated large-scale wind turbines within its design. Three massive blades, 29 meters in diameter, are supported by bridges spanning between the two 50-story sail-shaped towers. The wind turbines will deliver 15% of the [...]... Read More
JCB Dancing Diggers
As part of a CONEXPO-CON/AGG & IFPE 2008 recap, the last issue of the Show Vantage featured some of the highlights from the industry’s largest trade show. What was missing from this recap was the JCB Dancing Diggers that many thought to be the most entertaining and show stopping performance from the entire five-day event. I must say, one of they shows they put on made me stop and watch for a couple of minutes. So, I found video footage an attendee had taken on YouTube and wanted to... Read More
Incorporation of the Prime Contract: A Hidden Benefit
Virtually every subcontract agreement incorporates by reference the prime contract between the general contractor and the owner. Too often subcontractors do not obtain a copy of the prime contract and consequently become bound to terms and conditions they have not seen much less read. Moreover, the contractual provision incorporating the prime contract may state that if a conflict exists the contract language must be interpreted in a way that favors the general contractor. For example it may state:"In the event of variations, conflicts, or inconsistencies between or among the... Read More
ASHRAE creates “net zero” energy building tools
The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) is intent on developing tools to help designers create “net zero” energy buildings by 2020.... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: April 12, 2008
Bardsley Construction takes turnover through £50m barrier
Bardsley Construction has enjoyed a jump in turnover to £54m (previous year: £37m).... Read More
The Housing Start, Home Price and Labour Market Connection in February
It is a little early in the year to be drawing profound conclusions from the year-to-date housing start figures for Canada’s 33 Census Metropolitan Areas (CMAs). Nevertheless, this article includes some observations that encompass the latest numbers on housing starts, home prices and labour markets. At this point in the year, it is probably best to concentrate on the largest cities − Toronto, Montréal, Vancouver, Ottawa-Gatineau, Calgary and Edmonton.... Read More
Mini Skid Steers Reduce Labor Costs
Mini skid steers are appearing on more job sites across the country as contractors discover their exceptional versatility and maneuverability. Landscapers ...... Read More