CrewCost is accounting software made just for construction companies. With real-time data and automation, CrewCost solves common money issues facing construction firms, helping them stay on budget and improve financial accuracy.
Effective cost management continues to be a crucial issue in construction. Even small mistakes can lead to major financial problems. That’s why construction companies need the right tools to monitor their budgets. CrewCost accounting software has recently entered the scene, and it has several benefits and practical applications to keep your construction company running more efficiently.
What is CrewCost?
CrewCost is cloud-based accounting software for construction companies. It streamlines financial management with tools for tracking costs, managing budgets, integrating payroll, and generating detailed financial reports. Contractors can easily monitor labor, material, and equipment costs, keeping projects on budget and ensuring accurate financial data.
Launched on July 16, 2024, CrewCost aims to help contractors understand their finances better and manage their businesses more effectively to make informed decisions and build with confidence.
Images courtesy of CrewCost
Key features
Cost tracking
CrewCost accounting software provides robust tools for tracking labor, materials, and equipment costs. This software gives contractors a clear view of where their money is going, preventing budget overruns and enabling precise financial management throughout a project’s lifecycle.
Budget management
The software offers intuitive tools for setting up project budgets, allocating funds to different tasks, and monitoring expenditures against the budget. This real-time budget management helps contractors stay on track and make necessary adjustments before minor issues become major problems.
Payroll integration
This feature is tailored explicitly for construction projects and accounts for varying pay rates, overtime, and subcontractor payments. CrewCost streamlines the payroll process by integrating it directly into the accounting system, eliminating the need for separate payroll software, reducing administrative overhead, and minimizing the risk of errors.
Reporting and analytics
One of CrewCost’s standout features is its customizable reporting and analytics capabilities. Contractors can generate detailed reports with insights into financial performance, project costs, and profitability. These customizable reports allow users to focus on the most important metrics.
Mobile accessibility
Contractors and their teams can input data, track time, and manage expenses directly from their smartphones or tablets, enabling accurate on-site cost management. This ensures that financial data is updated in real-time, no matter where the team works. It also enhances collaboration and reduces data entry delays for more efficient project management.
Image courtesy of CrewCost
Benefits of CrewCost accounting software for construction companies
Improved financial accuracy: CrewCost significantly reduces errors and increases accuracy in financial reporting.
Enhanced budget control: Proactive budget management helps prevent cost overruns and ensures projects are completed within the allocated budget.
Time savings: One of CrewCost’s major benefits is the efficiency gains from its automated processes and real-time data updates, which allow contractors to focus on other critical aspects of their projects.
Better decision-making: Comprehensive reporting and analytics tools provide contractors with valuable insights into their financial performance. Customizable reports allow users to focus on the metrics that matter most to their business.
Compliance and audit readiness: The software’s detailed record-keeping and automated reporting make it easier to prepare for audits and ensure that all financial practices meet regulatory standards.
CrewCost is more than just accounting software; it’s a game-changer for construction companies looking to streamline their financial processes and enhance their project management capabilities.
The Government of Quebec, through Investissement Quebec, will contribute to funding nearly $140M CAD for sustainable factory upgrades for Hitachi Energy in the Montreal and Quebec areas. The funding is specifically for Hitachi Energy’s power transformer facilities and supports its long-term electrification efforts plan.
This ambitious upgrade stems from North American customers’ rapidly growing demand for more sustainable energy. Hitachi’s funded electrification plan kicks off in their factory in Varennes, Quebec, where Hitachi Energy has one of the highest manufacturing capacities in the world. The factory will also serve as an on-site transformer testing facility. This testing will be crucial for the modernization to start in other locations in Montreal and Quebec City.
Bruno Melles, Hitachi Energy’s Managing Director of Business Unit Transformers, states, “Globally, demand for transformers and electrical equipment continues to grow at an unprecedented scale. At Hitachi Energy we are continuously developing our global footprint and capacity to address our customers’ mid- and long-term needs. In addition to our global investments, the support of the Quebec Government will help to address North America’s rising demand for transformers to support fast-growing sectors like renewable energy, data centers, and industrial electrification, as Quebec strengthens its role as a key player in the energy transition.”
Transformers enable efficient distribution and transmission of electricity across the power chain, making them crucial in these sustainability efforts. Applications for transformers may include powering grid interconnectors and data centers and integrating renewables, which will facilitate the decarbonization of energy systems.
The facility in Varennes covers around 300,000 square feet and employs approximately 330 people. Hitachi Energy is a global tech leader in the power space and operates in over 140 countries. They employ over 550 skilled engineers and 1,000 people across Canada.
Parenting is hard. Working in construction is hard. Now, imagine doing both at the same time. Long hours, physical exhaustion, and unpredictable schedules make finding harmony between work and home life a constantly overwhelming struggle. Fortunately, parents can manage these challenges with practical strategies and industry support.
Parents in construction face unique challenges
Long hours and demanding schedules
Construction jobs usually don’t follow a standard 9-to-5 schedule. Long shifts, overtime, and weekend work can make it hard for parents to be present. Due to the unpredictable nature of their jobs, construction workers, especially parents who work in the field, face unique pressures.
Imagine you’re on the job site, putting in long hours while simultaneously missing out on family dinners, your kid’s soccer games, or even important milestones. While some workers without families might be able to handle these hours more easily, parents often feel guilty about missing those moments, adding to the stress.
Traveling for work
One of the biggest complaints among people in the industry is the commute. Many construction workers have sites far from home or even move temporarily for a project. For parents, this distance means missing time with their family and leaving their partner to handle most of the parenting.
It can strain relationships when parents can’t be there for family dinners, help with homework, or just spend time together. Their partners may feel like they’re taking on too much of the parenting load, and kids might feel distant from a parent who’s not around as much. Over time, this can create tension in the household, making it even harder to find that balance.
Lack of affordable daycare
Parents working in construction or other trades often struggle to find reliable childcare, especially when job sites are in remote areas. A recent report identified several key barriers that families encounter while trying to secure childcare, such as:
Daycare hours that don’t align with early or late work shifts
Extended waitlists, making it difficult to access childcare when needed
Childcare providers requiring long-term commitments, which don’t fit the unpredictable and seasonal nature of construction work
A lack of qualified professionals and drop-in childcare options leave families with limited flexibility
Many tradespeople and construction workers face significant barriers to accessing childcare, forcing some to reduce their working hours or even consider leaving the industry entirely.
“When I did have to bring them (their kids) to daycare, I had to wake them up so early. When I brought them home, they had had a 14-hour day themselves. So when we got home, they were exhausted and miserable,” said a commercial transport mechanic from B.C. during a focus group. “Not only is it challenging for us as parents, it’s so challenging for our kids. In trades, I’ve typically started at 6 a.m., so my partner has to deliver the kids. At one time, we had to be a single-income family because it was too hard to navigate (childcare and work).”
The physical and mental strain
Construction work is physically and mentally exhausting. After a tough day at work, having the energy to be the parent you want to be is hard.
The construction industry is challenging for everyone, but for parents, it can feel like a constant battle between doing their job well and being there for their families. Balancing the demands of a construction job and family life can lead to a lot of stress and anxiety. Parents often feel pulled in different directions, trying their best at work while still being present for their kids. This constant juggling act can leave them feeling overwhelmed. If this stress builds up, it can lead to burnout, where parents feel like they’re not doing enough at work or home.
Reduced job satisfaction
For many parents, missing out on important family moments can create guilt and frustration. They may feel less satisfied with their jobs, even if they love the work. When construction workers feel torn between their career and their families, it can lead to lower morale and, in some cases, even cause them to consider leaving the industry altogether.
Finding that balance is key to personal happiness and long-term job satisfaction.
The impact of an imbalanced work-life situation doesn’t just stay at home—it follows parents to the job site and can affect how they perform and feel about their role in the industry. It’s a challenge that needs addressing, not just by individuals but by the industry as a whole.
How the industry can support parents
The good news is that the construction industry can help parents find a better balance between work and family. These solutions won’t just improve their lives at home; they can also help companies keep skilled workers on board and improve overall job satisfaction.
Supporting parents in the workplace can directly benefit a company’s growth. Research consistently shows that when employees are given the tools to achieve a healthy work-life balance, their productivity improves, which drives business growth and profitability. Additionally, happier employees tend to be more engaged and efficient during their working hours, ultimately boosting overall performance and increasing company profits. Fostering a supportive environment for parents isn’t just good for workers—it’s a smart business strategy.
Flexible scheduling options
One of the biggest challenges for parents in construction is the lack of flexibility in their work hours. Long shifts and strict deadlines don’t leave much room for family time. However, companies can explore ways to offer more flexible scheduling options, like staggered shifts or shorter workweeks.
For example, some industries are experimenting with the 4-day workweek, which has shown promising results. According to a 2022 global study by 4 Day Week Global, companies that adopted this model reported a 25% increase in productivity and improved work-life balance for employees.
While construction may not be able to adopt this model across the board, giving workers more control over their hours or offering alternative schedules could make a huge difference for parents.
Parental leave policies
Many industries are starting to offer better parental leave policies, but construction often lags. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, only 23% of private industry workers have access to paid family leave, a figure that’s even lower in blue-collar industries like construction. Offering extended parental leave, or even job-protected unpaid leave, would help parents in construction take the time they need to bond with their new child or handle family matters without worrying about losing their jobs.
Onsite childcare
One innovative solution is providing onsite childcare at construction sites. Although the idea is still relatively new, it’s gaining traction in industries where workers must be on-site for long hours. According to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, companies that offer on-site childcare experience less absenteeism and higher employee retention rates. For parents, knowing their child is close by and being cared for during the workday could reduce stress and allow them to focus better on their job.
Mental health support
The mental health challenges faced by construction workers, particularly parents, are significant. Construction consistently ranks as one of the most high-stress industries, with long hours, physically demanding tasks, and a culture that often emphasizes toughness over vulnerability. For parents, the pressure is even greater. The combination of job demands and the responsibility of raising children can lead to stress, burnout, and mental health struggles.
Practical tips for parents in construction
Balancing a demanding job in construction with family life is tough, but parents can make it a little easier with a few practical strategies. Here are some tips to help construction workers find more work-life balance.
Prioritize time management
One of the best ways to create more balance is to make the most of your time. Even if your work schedule is packed, setting aside dedicated time for family can make a big difference. Try blocking out specific hours on your days off to focus solely on family activities—a trip to the park, movie night, or simply eating dinner together. Scheduling family time the way you would a work meeting can help make sure it happens.
You could also plan for “micro-moments” of connection, like calling your kids during lunch breaks or setting up quick video chats before bed when you’re working late or out of town. These small moments help maintain a connection, even during busy times.
Communicate with employers
Sometimes, supervisors or project managers don’t realize how the job affects your family life unless you tell them. Having an open conversation about your need for flexibility can lead to adjustments that make your work-life balance more manageable.
For example, you could request an earlier or later start time, compressed work weeks, or occasional time off for important family events. While only some requests may be possible, more companies are becoming open to these discussions, especially as the construction industry works to retain skilled workers.
Self-care and mental health strategies
Taking care of yourself is just as important as caring for your family. When you’re physically and mentally exhausted, it’s harder to be present at work or with your family. Small self-care practices, like getting enough sleep, eating well, and staying active, can help you recharge your energy.
On the mental health side, setting boundaries between work and home life is key. Avoid bringing work stress home by creating a transition period—a few minutes of quiet time in the car before walking into the house or a quick walk around the block to clear your head. Simple daily practices like breathing exercises or short meditation sessions can help manage stress and keep your mental health in check.
Both construction workers and industry leaders need to recognize the value of supporting parents in the field. Everyone benefits when parents are given the tools to balance their careers and families. Families become stronger, workers stay happier and healthier, and companies retain skilled employees who feel valued. Remember, it’s okay to ask for help, whether it’s from your employer or loved ones. You don’t have to do it all alone.
If you think meditation is for long-haired hippies and white ladies who have recently discovered their spiritual side—it is, but it’s not just for them. Meditation is also an essential daily practice for world-renowned athletes like Lebron James and Cristiano Ronaldo, billionaires like Bill Gates and Ray Dalio, and even Navy SEALS. Meditation can be done anytime, anywhere, by anyone, and benefits of meditation extend far beyond inner peace. When working in a high-stress environment like construction, tapping into this science-backed technique can mean the difference between mental health and burnout.
Quick look
Meditation dates back thousands of years, with written records from 1500 BC.
Anyone can meditate, and those who struggle with it the most may also see the biggest benefits.
Regular meditation can help reduce stress, improve sleep, boost compassion, and even help your children’s mental health.
Mindfulness, transcendental, loving-kindness, movement, and body scan are some of the most common types of meditation.
What is Meditation?
In its simplest form, meditation is a physical and mental practice that brings clarity, focus, and awareness. Different types of meditation can accomplish different goals. Still, each one uses a tool like breathing, mantras, guided instruction, or chanting to help you let go of distraction and rumination and allow your mind to tap into stillness instead.
The age-old practice of meditation is believed to have originated in India before being quickly adopted worldwide as a part of religious and spiritual practices. Written records referring to meditation date back as far as 1500 BC. The fact that meditation is still practiced today is a testament to how simple and effective it is for both mind and body.
Anyone can meditate (even people who think they can’t)
If you feel you’re too stressed, too busy, or too easily distracted to meditate, take note: A Buddhist monk once said that in his experience, the people who struggle the hardest with meditation are also the ones who will benefit from it the most.
Construction workers exhibit some of the highest rates of stress, anxiety, and depression in any industry. While spending your days working long hours on stressful job sites may mean a heightened risk of mental health struggles, it also means that you’re uniquely positioned to reap the benefits of meditation.
No matter how hectic your schedule is or how many things are on your plate, everyone can find just a few minutes a day to meditate. It’s simple, free, and you can do it anywhere—on the bus to the job site, during your lunch break, or even when you’re waiting in line for the portapotty. When you do, you’ll quickly discover that allowing your mind to access stillness has many benefits besides feeling “zen.”
The benefits of meditation extend beyond the spiritual
Although meditation has its roots in religion and spirituality, it’s now widely practiced as an effective tool for managing the stress, speed, and busyness of modern life. Some meditators report having spiritual experiences during their practice, but many others meditate because it’s an effective way to reduce stress, improve sleep, and support their mental health.
Reduced stress
Stress is often referred to as the silent killer. It’s been shown to have a direct association with six leading causes of death: heart disease, cancer, lung ailments and respiratory disorders, accidental injuries, cirrhosis of the liver, and suicide.
There’s nothing worse than working a 14-hour shift, coming home exhausted, and then being unable to sleep (or falling asleep quickly, only to wake up a few hours later). Meditation has been shown to help you reduce insomnia and improve sleep quality. Some studies have even found that meditation can improve sleep as much as a prescription sleeping pill—without the cost and potential side effects.
Increased compassion
Metta meditation (also called kindness-based meditation or loving-kindness meditation) has been shown to help you feel more compassionate for others while boosting your sense of self-compassion. Compassion is a critical component of healthy relationships and may help you get closer to the important people in your life.
More resilient children
You can benefit from a regular mindfulness practice like meditation in many ways, but many would be surprised to know that these benefits trickle down to your kids, too. Children of more mindful parents display lower levels of stress, anxiety, and depression.
5 Common meditation techniques
There are many different styles of meditation, and it may take a few tries to find the one that’s right for you. These five popular types of meditation are a great place to start.
Mindfulness meditation is a simple technique for bringing awareness to your thoughts. Don’t judge what comes to mind or try to control your thoughts; just notice them as they come through. A common analogy invites you to see each thought as a leaf floating down a river. Notice it, then let it continue flowing downstream.
Transcendental meditation uses the Transcendental Meditation (TM) Technique, developed by Indian spiritualist Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. The TM Technique involves doing a 20-minute mantra meditation twice a day.
Loving-kindness meditation, also called Metta meditation, uses a specific mantra to cultivate a spirit of compassion and goodwill toward yourself, a loved one, a stranger, an enemy or difficult person, and finally, all living things.
Body scan meditation directs your awareness to each part of your body as you focus on the sensations you might be feeling there—tension, relaxation, or even pain. It can improve the mind-body connection.
Movement meditation is perfect for those who find it hard to sit still. This style asks you to bring awareness to each movement and move with purpose as you walk, garden, do yoga, or any other physical activity.
Under the Hard Hat’s quick-start guide to meditation
If learning about the many benefits of meditation has convinced you to try it, here’s how to get started.
Sit comfortably. You can use a straight-backed chair, sit cross-legged, or kneel on a pillow, whichever feels best. Avoid lying down or curling up on a comfy couch—you need to remain alert for your meditation.
Close your eyes. Unless you’re doing movement meditation, closing your eyes will boost your focus and awareness.
Minimize distraction. While you don’t need complete silence, finding a place where you can meditate uninterrupted can be helpful as you begin your meditation practice.
Start small. Many of us struggle to focus for extended periods without distraction, so it can feel discouraging to try (and fail) a 20- or 30-minute meditation right off the bat. Instead, try meditating for just two or three minutes to start. After a few weeks, increase the time to five minutes, then ten, and so on. Setting yourself up for success will help you continue your practice.
Use a timer or guided meditation. Setting a timer means you won’t interrupt your meditation to check the clock. Guided meditations feature a teacher who will talk you through a meditation, helping you retain focus. You can find many guided meditations on YouTube and in free meditation apps like Calm and HeadSpace.
Suicide rates in the US construction industry are three times higher than the national average, and men in high-skill and high-stakes jobs are one and a half times more likely to die by suicide. On average, one in five construction workers suffer from mental health issues. Changing the stigma around mental health and shifting to a caring culture can help facilitate greater mental health awareness and support for workers struggling with mental illness.
Quick look
The construction industry ranks second for the highest number of suicides among all major industries.
A high-pressure environment, the “macho” mentality of the industry, and opioid dependency are primary reasons that construction workers are at a higher suicide risk.
Workers with mental health issues choose not to seek help due to stigma, fear of judgment, fear of negative job consequences, and lack of awareness about accessing help.
Creating a caring culture, facilitating better access to resources, and training management are simple ways to improve mental health outcomes for construction workers.
What is mental health?
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), mental health is “a state of mental well-being that enables people to cope with the stresses of life, realize their abilities, learn well and work well, and contribute to their community.”
But mental health is more than just the absence of mental or neuropsychiatric conditions. It exists on a broad and complex continuum that varies from one person to the next.
Mental health conditions include a variety of mental disorders and psychosocial disabilities, along with mental states associated with distress, impaired function, or risk of self-harm.
While the nature of mental well-being is mostly internal and emotional, it can manifest in a variety of physical symptoms—poor focus and attention, reduced sleep quality, loss of appetite, impaired interaction with others, substance abuse, and low energy—and an increased risk of health complications, including panic attacks, heart attack, and stroke.
Here’s why it matters: Workplace injuries are common in the construction industry, and mental illness can affect a person’s ability to work safely, increasing the risk of injury to both themself and co-workers.
The industry is heavily focused on safety through education/training and personal protective equipment (PPE), but mental well-being needs to be included in that.
The bottom line: Mental health is your state of emotional, psychological, and social well-being. Your mental health influences how you think, feel, and act, but it also shapes how you handle stress, relate to others, and make decisions.
Mental health conditions
Statistics from the National Institute of Mental Health suggest that nearly one in five adults live with a mental illness, which translates to about 57.8 million people in 2021. While the underlying trigger differs based on the individual, common factors that can contribute to mental illness include:
Biological factors (genetics, brain chemistry)
Life experiences (trauma, abuse)
Family history of mental illness
Some common mental health conditions include:
Anxiety disorders (including generalized anxiety (GAS), panic disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), phobias, and social anxiety)
Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
Bipolar disorder
Borderline personality disorder (BPD)
Depression
Eating disorders (anorexia nervosa, binge eating disorder, and bulimia nervosa)
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Schizophrenia
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD)
Self-harm
Suicide and suicidal behavior
The pervasiveness of mental health worldwide can’t be understated, but there appears to be a strong link between mental health conditions and the construction industry.
Several factors contribute to higher-than-average suicide rates and mental health concerns in the construction industry. Some of these include:
Male male-dominated industry—men experience the highest suicide rates
An industry that values toughness and strength—mental issues and seeking help may be considered weak
Stigma and fear around mental health
Shame and fear of judgment
Chronic pain
Seasonal and cyclical work contribute to job and financial insecurity
High-stress and deadline-driven industry
Limited job control
Long work hours, including overtime, lead to fatigue and burnout
Relative low socioeconomic status
Inequality
Some experts suggest that a high-pressure environment, the “tough guy” mentality of the industry, and opioid dependency are some of the main factors placing construction workers at higher suicide risk.
Mental health issues are so pervasive in the construction industry that OSHA has intervened to increase mental health awareness of the alarmingly high suicide risk in the industry. OSHA also recently signed an alliance with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention to promote mental health in the workplace and implement suicide prevention measures, including providing better access to healthcare professionals, businesses, and trade organizations with adequate resources and improving training to raise awareness of issues related to occupational deaths by suicide.
But despite taking steps in the right direction, suicide death rates in the industry remain devastatingly high, and the industry is still rife with compounding pressures that have adverse effects on mental health.
So, why might workers with mental health issues not seek help, even if available?
According to The American Psychiatric Association Foundation 2021 pulse survey was conducted to better understand mental health experiences and needs in the construction industry, there are four reasons why a worker may choose not to seek help:
Shame and stigma (78%)
Fear of judgment by others (77%)
Fear of negative job consequences (55%)
Don’t know how to access care (46%)
How to build mental health awareness
Many companies in the construction industry recognize the importance of making mental health resources more accessible—and many are taking steps to do so. This helps to improve worker education and awareness, reduce stigma, and shows organizational commitment to supporting worker mental health and well-being.
The American Psychiatric Association Foundation’s 2021 pulse survey focused on four key areas:
Leadership engagement
Raising mental health awareness—resources and strategies
Creating a mentally healthy organizational culture
Enhancing access to services and supports
It consisted of a 20-question online survey administered to 1,175 respondents in the construction industry. Of the respondents, 45% represented C-Suite leaders, showing the importance of these issues to upper management in the field.
Interestingly, survey findings show that a whopping 77% of Presidents, CEOs, and Owners acknowledge that addressing mental health at work is a priority—this can be done by promoting awareness, helping to reduce stigma around mental health, and encouraging people to get help when needed.
The following is a list of resources respondents said would be most helpful to share with employees:
69% – Supervisor training
66% – Employee training
64% – Toolbox talks
51% – Fact sheets
48% – Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
43% – Posters
39% – Mental health apps
36% – Newsletter content
33% – Emails on mental health
31% – Hardhat stickers
25% – Wallet cards
But while giving workers resources to improve mental health is a good place to start, organizations must also change the culture.
First, workers need to feel connected to one another and the organization. Most people value a sense of trust and community amongst their peers and co-workers, and it’s an essential part of shifting to a caring culture.
But it’s not just employees who need to care—organizational culture starts at the top, meaning it’s imperative that the C- and V-suite recognize their role in making workers feel valued and appreciated.
Additionally, a caring culture has leaders who recognize and reinforce the importance of workers caring for their mental health and well-being and seeking help when needed. This means leaders modeling and communicating that “it’s ok not to be ok” and reminding workers that mental health is just as important as physical health—they must get help for a mental condition as they would for a physical one.
2. Facilitate better access to resources
Image courtesy of MindShift CBT
Employee assistance programs (EAPs) are needed to help workers manage various issues, ranging from health problems to finances, that could result in distress or a mental health crisis. These programs are generally purchased through a vendor and are designed to offer 24/7 support to workers and their immediate family members.
Additionally, employers can:
Form peer support groups encourage mutual aid for workers going through similar situations or difficulties.
Improve awareness about mobile app availability to reduce stress and promote mental well-being.
3. Train upper management
Although most resources target workers, mental health awareness starts at the top. It’s on company owners and managers to recognize the signs of mental health issues in their employees and provide adequate resources and support.
Employers must take action by offering general training and education on stress management and mental health—for example, the benefits of proper nutrition in mental well-being and exercise as a coping mechanism for stress. Targeted training modules can help address the proper skills for managing mental health imbalances and emotional issues.
Employers should also provide upper management with further training to help them develop empathy skills, identify signs of mental health problems, and develop proper listening skills for employees who need to talk. They should also be given adequate resources to refer workers for further help.
Final thoughts
While standalone programs are essential to address the growing mental health crisis in the construction field, longer-term solutions for construction companies are critical to shifting the culture and environment that facilitates mental health problems in the first place.
Reducing the stigma, improving access to resources, and implementing a better work/life balance for employees are all important pieces of the puzzle to enhance worker mental health and minimize death by suicide.
In mid-July, Greenland Technologies, the parent company of HEVI, announced its strategic partnership with Chinese-based Lonking Holdings Ltd. The partnership stems from a demand for more eco-friendly machinery and aims to “revolutionize the heavy machinery industry” in the U.S. market.
Raymond Wang, CEO of Greenland, states in the release, “Lonking is a renowned manufacturer of heavy machinery, known for its commitment to quality, reliability, and innovation. With decades of experience in the industry and dedication to delivering superior models to its customers worldwide, we share in our focus on innovation and environmental responsibility. This partnership represents another major step forward in our commitment to sustainable innovation as we continue to set new standards in the industry with our HEVI brand.”
Images courtesy of HEVI
Both companies are committed to transitioning to a more electric-powered market, especially after the gradual tightening of municipal noise and emissions regulations. More specifically, this collaboration aims to reduce carbon emissions and improve operator productivity while keeping the total cost of ownership down.
This collaboration will expand the HEVI brand of electric vehicles. The company’s first release was in 2022, with three lithium-ion-powered vehicles. These machines, including the GEX-8000, the GEL-5000, and the GEL-1800, operate at a few high-profile locations.
While there is no concrete release date for the new products, Lonking’s forklifts, skid steers, rollers, loaders, and excavators could be a preview of the launch.
Finding ways to stay cool and avoid heat stress or heat exhaustion is crucial under the smoking sun. Whether it’s a portable fan, a neck air conditioner, or cooling arm sleeves, there are many products to help you beat the heat and stay comfortable on the job. While some can be more costly than others, some products do the trick without breaking the bank.
If you work outdoors, then you know firsthand how weather can play a role in determining how comfortable you feel while at work. In the blistering heat of summer, it can get unbearably hot, especially when you are clothed in safety gear, work boots, and hard hats.
We’ve rounded up some of our favorite items to help you stay cool all day.
UTHH top 10 products to help you beat the heat on the job
Chiller Body Cooling Gel Cap Inserts
Price: $39.95 for 2
One of the best ways to beat the heat is to keep your head cool underneath that hard hat, and these Chiller Body Cooling Gel Cap Inserts are a great solution for regulating body temperature. Freeze them beforehand, and insert them into your hat or helmet to keep you cool all day long. If you find that they need recharging throughout the day, toss them into your cooler to maximize their cooling effects.
With their lightweight design and cooling gel technology, these Cooling Gel Cap Inserts are not only durable, but they also keep you cool all day long.
ULINE Deluxe Cooling Vest
Price: $253.00
The ultimate in cooling technology, ULINE’s Deluxe Cooling Vest is guaranteed to keep you comfortable all day long. The vest offers up to ten hours of cooling comfort and features four inserts that can be frozen ahead of time. If you need a boost throughout the day, it can also be soaked in water for 2-3 minutes to reactivate the cooling technology.
By wearing a cooling vest, you can regulate your core body temperature, which can help prevent heat stress and discomfort.
This vest is available in large or X-large sizes, and blue is the standard color available.
Saxx DropTemp® All Day Cooling Performance Hoodie
Price: $45.00
Another key strategy for keeping cool on the job site is to wear light, breathable layers like this DropTemp All Day Cooling Performance Hoodie from Saxx. Made of lightweight polyester, this hoodie provides UPF 50 protection from the sun’s harmful rays.
It is also made with Saxx’s DropTemp™ Cooling Technology and is moisture-wicking and odour-resistant. It is available in four stylish colours, including Turbulence Heather, Sea Level Heather, Racer Blue Heather, and Tradewinds Heather, and in sizes from Small to XX-large.
Layer up with lightweight materials with cooling technology, and you’ll be cool and comfortable all day!
Torras COOLiFY Cyber Smart APP Control Neck Air Conditioner
Price: $387.36 – $456.78
The COOLiFY Cyber Smart Neck Air Conditioner from Torras is the ultimate in cooling technology. It features three modes of operation—Fan, Cool, and Heat Therapy, so it can even provide heat relief when needed, in addition to keeping you cool all day long. This remarkable fan not only cools your neck and head area, but with six upper air outlets and two lower air outlets, it can reach your face and all the way down your back, cooling your entire body. With comfort in mind, it also offers an adjustable fit for universal neck comfort.
The accompanying app is the first of its kind, offering AI-powered Intelligence to help you maintain your ideal temperature through the Personalized Zone Control. Adjustable levels are available at your fingertips through your phone.
The company offers a 30-day effortless return, a 1-year warranty, and lifetime guidance and support for your peace of mind. The product is available in Cascade Black, Natural Titanium, and Stainless Steel.
Everyone knows how important it is to drink water throughout the day, especially when working in the heat. But what if you could boost your body’s electrolytes while enjoying a refreshing flavor in your water?
Available in 50 individually wrapped pouches, they’re easy to add to your water bottle throughout the day. The variety pack includes Orange, Mixed Berry, Fruit punch, Lemonade, Lemon-lime, Grape, Watermelon, Lemonade Iced Tea, Cool Citrus, and Strawberry flavors, ensuring a flavor for every taste.
DeWalt Cordless Jobsite Fan
Price: $155.82
Nothing beats the heat like good air circulation, and this Cordless Jobsite Fan from DeWalt is an easy and portable way to keep your job site cool while you work. Compatible with DeWalt’s 20V MAX system of tools, this fan can be operated cordless or corded, depending on your needs.
The fan can be mounted high, hung on the wall, or easily stood on the ground, so you can set it up wherever you need more air circulation. It also features variable speed control up to 500 CPM, and its IP54-rated enclosures help protect against dust, other particles, and water.
Darn Tough Vermont Coolmax Socks
Price: $24.00
Keep your feet cool in those heavy work boots with Coolmax Socks from Darn Tough Vermont. These socks are designed for rough wear and tear and will last a lifetime. With a performance fit, they won’t slip and slide while you’re wearing them, and their True Seamless™ Toe technology prevents bunching and discomfort.
Made with vegan synthetic Coolmax® yarns, which help keep feet cool and dry all day long, these socks also offer a reinforced footbed and Achilles cushion to increase foot comfort for long days of working on your feet. They are available in sizes M to XL and two different colors: Olive and Gray/Black.
Chill-Its 6690 Cooling Arm Sleeves
Price: $20.35
Stay cool with the multi-functional Chill-Its 6690 Cooling Arm Sleeves. Wear them wet or dry; either way, they keep you cool throughout the day. When they are dry, they help to wick moisture and sweat away from your body, which prevents overheating. Adding water to these arm sleeves provides instant cooling relief for hours.
The lightweight material also provides UPF 50+ protection against the sun’s harmful rays, and it features reflective accents that help increase visibility in darker areas. The shirts are machine washable, available in sizes M to 2XL, and available in four colors: Black, Hi-Vis Lime, Blue, and Grey.
ULINE Cooling Towel
Price: $15
These colorful Cooling Towels from ULINE provide a simple yet effective way to stay cool during your workday. Made of unique PVA material, they’re soft and comfortable to wipe your face with or wear around your neck when feeling hot.
Soak the towel in cold water for 2-5 minutes for up to 4 hours of cooling relief. Wear it under your hat or helmet, wrap it around your neck, or keep it handy to wipe down your face and arms. Measuring 12.25 x 32.5”, these towels are available in three colors: Blue, Grey, or Lime.
Ergodyne Cooling Skull Cap
Price: $12.45
Prevent heat headaches by keeping your head cool throughout the day using the Cooling Skull Cap from Ergodyne. Made of performance knit fabrics, it’s soft, lightweight, and moisture-wicking, keeping your head cool and dry. Similar to Ergodyne’s other cooling products, it offers immediate cooling relief when wet. It also fits snugly under any hat or helmet and doesn’t bunch up or slide around underneath.
The skull cap can be worn by itself or under a hard hat; if worn by itself, it also offers UPF 50+ protection against the sun’s rays. It is available in one size and 5 colors: Grey, Black, Blue, Lime, and Orange.
Bottom line
When working in the elements, taking proper steps to protect ourselves from overheating and causing heat stress or heat exhaustion is crucial. Drinking water throughout the day, preferably every 15-20 minutes, is one of the most important steps you can take.
Also, take a minute to rest in the shade when you can and dress accordingly, keeping an eye on heat warnings and the UV Index. Choose your favorite products to beat the heat from our list here, and use them to help you beat the heat this summer!
Which one are you going out to buy immediately?! Let us know in the comments!
On August 12, 2024, Montreal-based WSP announced the acquisition of Power Engineers Inc. This 1.78 billion dollar purchase was made as part of their strategy to exceed the objectives of their 2022-2024 Global Strategic Action Plan.
Image courtesy of Power Engineers
Holger Peller, President and COO of Power Engineers Inc., is expected to drive accelerated growth by leading the P&E platform while remaining under the Power Engineers brand for the foreseeable future. The acquisition is said to complement WSP’s Property and buildings, Transport and infrastructure, and Earth and environment sectors.
“By uniting WSP’s extensive global network and POWER’s deep technical expertise, we are poised to provide exceptional solutions and service quality to foster significant advancements in the communities we serve,” said WSP’s Alexandre L’Heureux, President and Chief Executive Officer. “The trust of our shareholders and our commitment to excellence will empower us to influence the future of the energy sector as we plan to expand our reach and power a sustainable future across the globe.”
This acquisition by WSP follows four other acquisitions made earlier this year. L’Heureux says expanding energy and power expertise is key to taking advantage of the global shift towards cleaner energy.
Power Engineers Inc. is a consulting firm and leader in the energy sector. It specializes in environmental consulting and has 50 offices and over 4,000 employees across North America.
This acquisition is subject to Power Engineers’ regulatory approval in the U.S. The transaction is expected to be closed in approximately early Q4 2024.
Pennsylvania has passed a new bill allowing the use of green lights to identify maintenance and construction work on its highways. As of August 16, any Department of Transportation (DOT), Pennsylvania Turnpike, or municipal motor vehicle conducting maintenance work or construction can use flashing green lights to enhance visibility and make worksites safer.
Image courtesy of Pa. Turnpike
Beaver County State Representative Jim Marshall proposed the bill, which passed unanimously before being signed into law by Governor Josh Shapiro. The bill states that the new green light regulations apply to all maintenance and construction vehicles, including those used for snow removal, traffic-line painting, sign and signal maintenance, street sweeping, traffic control, and dump trucks and mowers.
Pennsylvania isn’t the first to explore using green lights to alert motorists to roadwork. In 2012, Ohio passed a similar bill allowing its snow plows to display green lights.
Although work zone accidents in Pennsylvania are at their lowest rates in years, there were still 1,216 crashes in work zones in 2023, resulting in 689 injuries and 22 fatal injuries—two were workers. Officials hope the new guidelines for construction and maintenance vehicles will help reduce them even more.
Cain International and OKO Group have officially commenced construction on One Beverly Hills, an ambitious $5 billion project set to become the tallest towers in Beverly Hills. The groundbreaking ceremony took place on February 9, 2024, marking the start of a transformative development that promises to redefine luxury living in the area.
Spanning 17.5 acres, the One Beverly Hills development will feature two residential condominium towers, a luxury Aman hotel, and an exclusive 100,000-square-foot Aman Club. These structures will be surrounded by 10 acres of botanical gardens and open spaces, integrating over 200 species of native and water-wise plants. The project is designed by Foster + Partners, with landscape architecture by RIOS.
Images courtesy of Cain International
The project is expected to generate over 2,700 construction jobs, providing a substantial economic boost to the local community. Turner Construction Company, renowned for projects like the SoFi Stadium and Burj Khalifa, will manage the site. The strategic location and innovative design are anticipated to attract high-end buyers and visitors, reinforcing Beverly Hills’ status as a premier luxury destination.
The project, financially backed by $2 billion in financing from JP Morgan and other private commitments, emphasizes the confidence in the stability and potential of luxury real estate in prime locations.
Image courtesy of Cain International
Jonathan Goldstein, CEO and co-founder of Cain International, expressed his enthusiasm towards the financing deal struck with JP Morgan stating, “We are delighted to welcome JP Morgan as a cornerstone financing partner for the One Beverly Hills project. This endorsement further strengthens our confidence in the stability and potential of luxury real estate in sought-after locations. We look forward to working with our partners as we deliver a product that will redefine hospitality and urban living.”
The development is poised to set a new standard for mixed-use developments in the United States, combining luxury, sustainability, and innovative design to meet evolving demands.
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