The ongoing coronavirus outbreak in China could hurt the US construction industry by leading to fewer exports of building supplies, experts say. Approximately 30% of all imported building parts in the US come from China.
Cell phones can pose a safety hazard on construction sites because frequently cause interruptions and distractions. "Construction sites are dangerous enough as it is, with the cellphone epidemic now adding to the everyday hazards and challenges we face," said Robert Brown, safety director at Camarata Masonry Systems.
The Durable Slate Co., based in Columbus, Ohio, won an award last year from the International Federation for the Roofing Trade for its installation of a copper roof on Steeple Square in Dubuque, Iowa. Workers installed ornamental parts to restore the look of the former church building.
The need for human intuition on build-outs and redevelopment projects should assuage fears of technology supplanting construction workers, says Julian Anderson, president of Rider Levett Bucknall. Artificial intelligence can contribute to visuals that inform construction decisions, but humans ultimately are the ones making decisions, Anderson says.
A two-story house in Portugal stands out against its natural setting with an indoor-outdoor lower level and a top level that is mostly closed except for a few angular openings. The house features rooftop skylights.
A tall wooden building in Sweden is made out of cross-laminated timber, which can be recycled and causes fewer carbon emissions than concrete. The nine-story building also has a green roof.
The unexpected death of a key employee could cause many small businesses to lose hundreds of thousands of dollars in revenue, or more, and they can plan for this with key person insurance, says Alex Grammatic, of Helm Financial, a business consulting firm and independent insurance agency. Experts outline factors affecting whether key person insurance is right for a business, from types and costs of policies to which staffers qualify for coverage.
Experts offer ways for family businesses in various stages to liquidate hard business assets, allocate capital among family members and preserve wealth. Financial advisors explain tax implications, and business owners give advice on fairness.
The Trump administration reportedly has made an additional 20,000 visas available for seasonal guest workers, with 25,000 more available June 1. However, it's unclear whether the White House has finalized numbers.
Employers must be sure to electronically file OSHA Form 300A workplace injury data by March 2. Employers with 10 or more employees will also need to post Form 300A copies where workers can see them through April 30.
RT3 supports Roofing Day in D.C. 2020, encourages all industry stakeholders to participate
All roofing industry professionals are invited to come together in Washington, D.C., to elevate the image of the industry and share its message with lawmakers on Capitol Hill.
