Tag: Industry news

  • Top OSHA violations of 2024 + penalty increases construction teams need to know about

    Top OSHA violations of 2024 + penalty increases construction teams need to know about

    The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is seeing another increase in penalties for safety violations in 2025. Increases are determined based on inflation and cost of living, and construction companies are penalized per violation and for each day the employer fails to abate the previously cited violation. Top violations include respiratory protection, ladder violations, and fall protection violations.

    2024 top OSHA violations

    10. Machine guarding

    Standard number: 1910.212

    Number of violations: 1,541

    Machine guarding refers to violations related to unsafe practices with machine parts. Moving machine parts could potentially cause serious injuries or fatalities. Injuries could include amputations, burns, blindness, and crushed hands or fingers.

    To protect workers, it’s important to implement safeguards. Any machine function, process, or part that may cause harm must be safeguarded. When the operation or accidental contact of the machine causes injury to anyone in the vicinity, including the operator, those hazards must be controlled or eliminated. Failure to implement these safeguards or controls results in violations. 

    9. Personal protective and lifesaving equipment 

    Standard number: 1926.102

    Number of violations: 1,814

    Personal protective equipment (PPE) includes clothing for the face, eyes, and head and protection for the extremities. Examples of types of protection include protective face shields, respiratory devices, and clothing barriers for chemical, mechanical, radiological, and other environmental hazards in the workplace

    If employers fail to provide or require employees to use PPE, it could result in an OSHA violation. This PPE must meet the specifications for design as stated in the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) or the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). Employers are responsible for properly maintaining PPE, including employee-owned equipment.

    8. Scaffolding

    Standard number: 1926.451

    Number of violations: 1,873

    OSHA mandates that scaffolds must be constructed, designed, and erected by qualified workers. This includes ensuring the scaffold structure can support at least four times the maximum intended load. Failure to assemble scaffolding that does not meet these requirements results in violations.

    7. Fall protection – training requirements

    Standard number: 1926.503

    Number of violations: 2,050

    To avoid fall protection violations, OSHA requires employers to keep work areas’ floors clean and dry. They must also select and provide required PPE at no cost to employees, adequately train workers about job hazards in a language they can understand, and provide working conditions free of known fall dangers. 

    6. Powered industrial trucks

    Standard number: 1910.178

    Number of violations: 2,248

    Reasons for OSHA violations for powered industrial trucks could include a lack of adequate operator training, failing to perform routine inspections on the truck, operating the vehicle unsafely, overloading the truck, and not removing a defective truck from service. Failure to maintain the truck properly could also result in a penalty. 

    5. Lockout/tagout

    Standard number: 1910.147

    Number of violations: 2,443

    Lockout and tagout (LOTO) violations can occur for several reasons. The most frequently occurring examples are failure to identify and isolate energy sources, train employees, and establish a proper LOTO program. 

    Failing to conduct LOTO inspections and follow procedures and unauthorized LOTO operations may also result in penalties.

    4. Respiratory protection

    Standard number: 1910.134

    Number of violations: 2,470

    Employers must provide respirators, proper training, and regular medical evaluations at no charge to employees. They must also follow proper respirator selection guidelines, which means a routine respiratory hazard evaluation must be conducted at each site. 

    Identifying relevant workplace and respirator user factors and basing respirator selection on these factors is also mandatory. 

    3. Ladder 

    Standard number: 1926.1053

    Number of violations: 2,573

    Ladder is another larger OSHA violation category, and violations can be broken up into distinct categories. 

    Improper setup, inadequate maintenance, using the wrong ladder, and using a defective ladder are common ways employers receive OSHA penalties. Lack of fall protection, inadequate safety training, moving a ladder while in use, and using a wet, oily, or greasy ladder will also result in violations.

    2. Hazard communication

    Standard number: 1910.1200

    Number of violations: 2,888

    Hazard communication violations occur when employers fail to inform workers about hazardous chemicals in the workplace. Lack of notification includes not producing a written hazard communication program, failing to provide adequate chemical training, not labeling containers, or not maintaining Safety Data Sheets for each present chemical on site.

    1. Fall protection

    Standard number: 1926.501

    Number of violations: 6,307

    Fall protection violations have long been number one on the list, and according to OSHA, a violation occurs when employers fail to provide necessary fall protection equipment or systems for working at heights. 

    This includes scenarios like elevated surfaces, unprotected edges, holes in floors, or open-sided platforms without safety nets, guardrails, or personal fall arrest systems. Failing to provide adequate fall protection training on proper equipment use and hazard identification also results in penalties.

    What’s changed with penalties?

    As of January 15th, 2025, OSHA’s maximum violation penalties have increased. Violations were previously $16,131 and are now $16,550 for each serious and other-than-serious violation. The penalty also applies for each day the employer fails to abate the previously cited infraction. 

    Penalties for repeated or willful violations have also been raised from $161,323 to $165,514 per violation. This annual increase of roughly 2.6% between 2024 and 2025 is a decrease from the 3.2% climb from 2023 to 2024. 

    According to the federal government, the increase in violations is correlated with the annual cost-of-living increases and inflation. Increased violations could inspire more stringent safety protocols and fewer violations, but that statistic also depends on increased safety measures’ effectiveness. Improved safety hazard culture and fewer violations can only be achieved when organizations commit to changing or overhauling their processes.

    Bottom line

    OSHA violations are a significant motivator for construction companies to implement and maintain proper safety protocols in the workplace. While injuries and fatalities are always possible, with or without OSHA, the risk of high costs due to preventable violations does reduce the number of incidents significantly. 

    Ladder and hazard communication violations are among the most prominent violations OSHA has seen, but fall protection violations once again top the list. In theory, increasing violation penalties should reduce incidents further, but an impactful change would require a more drastic cultural shift regarding workplace safety.

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  • Houzz Pro adds new tools for contractors

    Houzz Pro adds new tools for contractors

    Houzz Inc. recently announced several new additions to the Houzz Pro platform, allowing users to seamlessly manage several projects, streamline communication between team members, and boost collaboration.

    Since 2009, Houzz has provided innovative tools for over 70 million homeowners and more than 3 million construction and design industry professionals. The Houzz platform helps users discover design ideas and inspiration, source products, and hire professionals, while Houzz Pro offers robust financial tools, 3D visualizations, and a readily accessible hub for project information.

    Houzz Pro’s new features include instant messaging within the platform, AI-generated monthly reports, and automatically generated voice notes that allow team members to provide relevant commentary to accompany daily logs, images, and videos.

    In a press release, Houzz cofounder and CEO Alon Cohen says the new features will help users manage existing projects and grow revenue, “Managing large construction and design firms with multiple projects and teams requires smooth coordination and access to timely information. With the new Houzz Pro features, we’re equipping our customers – whether in the office or on-site – with the tools and information they need to keep their projects on track and take on more business. And the results are undeniable. On average, professionals using Houzz Pro saw 40% revenue growth in their second year using the software.”

    Features:

    • Team Chat: Houzz has added an instant messaging feature within Houzz Pro, allowing all team members to communicate and share files in real-time. 
    • Monthly Digest: An AI-generated report provides a snapshot of financial information, payments, time and expenses, daily logs, and lead summaries. 
    • Voice-Over-Notes: An AI-generated program automatically transcribes user voice notes on video and audio images to create a clear record of work.

    The Houzz Pro platform can be tailored for builders, remodelers, interior designers, architectural firms, and specialty contractors, with pricing starting at $194/month

    For more insider scoop on the latest tech for contractors, follow us on social media and subscribe to our weekly newsletter.

  • BC contractors face 72% skilled labor shortage amid rising project delays

    BC contractors face 72% skilled labor shortage amid rising project delays

    The construction industry in British Columbia is facing a major challenge—finding skilled workers. According to the latest survey from the Independent Contractors and Businesses Association (ICBA), 72% of BC contractors say they are struggling to hire qualified trade workers. This shortage is putting pressure on construction companies, causing delays and higher project costs at a time when the province is already dealing with a housing affordability crisis.

    How the skilled labor shortage is affecting the industry

    The lack of skilled workers is impacting all areas of construction, from industrial and commercial projects to residential developments. Contractors are forced to delay or even turn down new projects because they can’t find enough tradespeople to do the work. This slows project timelines and drives up costs as companies compete for limited labor. While some relief has been seen in the Interior and Northern BC regions, most contractors across the province still feel the strain. 

    Here are the biggest challenges heading into 2025 for contractors cited by this survey:

    • Worker shortage
    • Declining profit margins
    • Securing new projects
    • Permitting and approval delays
    • Regulatory burdens
    • Employee retention issues

    Balancing these factors is proving to be a significant challenge for contractors across BC. As projects take longer to complete, BC businesses face shrinking profit margins and increased pressure to meet deadlines, making the labor gap a major roadblock to BC’s economic growth.

    How contractors are responding to the labor shortage

    To stay competitive, BC contractors are taking action to manage the labor shortages by providing incentives and training programs. These strategies aim to strengthen their ability to recruit workers and keep projects from stalling. Here are some of the ways contractors are responding:

    • 68% of companies are investing more in training programs, such as apprenticeships and upskilling current employees
    • 65% are spending additional time and resources on recruitment, expanding their search for skilled labor beyond local markets
    • 55% have increased wages to attract and retain workers, even though this adds financial pressure

    Even with these measures being taken, several businesses are being forced to turn down projects or extend timelines because they simply can’t find enough workers. As a result, many construction companies are struggling to balance rising costs due to shrinking profit margins.

    What this means for BC’s construction industry

    The ongoing skilled labor shortage presents a real challenge for BC’s construction industry. With contractors struggling to fill roles, the pace of building projects slows down, directly impacting housing supply and infrastructure development. This slowdown is set to worsen BC’s housing affordability crisis and delay critical projects in the industrial and commercial sectors.

    Rising labor costs also mean higher overall project expenses, which may be passed down to developers and, eventually, consumers. This situation makes it harder for smaller construction firms to compete, leading to a greater concentration of work among larger companies. Without faster action to improve industry training and adjust immigration policies to bring in skilled workers, these problems will likely continue.

    Bottom line

    Companies are doing their best to adapt—investing in training, recruiting more aggressively, and raising wages—but these efforts alone may not be enough. Nearly two-thirds of contractors feel the government is not supporting businesses like theirs, making the situation even more difficult.

    The government and industry leaders need to work together to develop long-term solutions. Addressing BC’s labor shortage is necessary to keep construction projects moving forward and support the province’s economic growth.

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  • How OSHA’s revised PPE standard impacts construction safety in 2025

    How OSHA’s revised PPE standard impacts construction safety in 2025

    Keeping workers safe is a top priority in the construction industry, yet many trade workers have been left to manage with improperly fitting gear, leaving them vulnerable. OSHA’s latest personal protective equipment (PPE) standard update is a step in the right direction. The change ensures all workers have access to PPE that fits appropriately, addressing long-standing issues with one-size-fits-all gear.

    The final rule revision

    Effective January 13, 2025, the new rule requires construction employers to provide PPE that fits each worker correctly. Previously, ill-fitting PPE was a significant concern, especially for women and workers with smaller or larger body frames. Equipment like hard hats and gloves often failed to offer proper protection when they didn’t fit properly.

    Poorly fitting PPE can:

    • Fail to provide any protection to workers, leaving them exposed to hazards.
    • Reduce the overall effectiveness of the equipment, diminishing its ability to safeguard employees.
    • Create additional risks, such as loose gear getting caught in machinery.
    • Discourage workers from wearing the equipment, leading to further safety concerns.

    OSHA updated the rule to close this gap and align construction standards with those already in place for general industry and shipyards. By requiring employers to consider fit when selecting PPE, the rule ensures every worker can perform their job safely and comfortably.

    What this means for the construction industry

    • For employers: Construction companies must reevaluate their PPE inventories and provide abroaderr range of sizes to accommodate diverse body shapes. This means sourcing new equipment, training staff to recognize proper fit, and updating safety protocols. While this may initially increase costs, it ensures compliance and promotes a safer work environment.
    • For employees: Workers will benefit from safer, more comfortable gear that encourages consistent use. Properly fitting PPE reduces risks and enhances productivity by minimizing distractions caused by ill-fitting equipment. Employees should report any fit issues to their supervisors to ensure their safety is prioritized.

    Bottom line

    OSHA’s revised PPE standard addresses a critical workplace safety issue, ensuring all construction workers have access to properly fitting gear. This change will hopefully bring about a safer, more inclusive industry, benefiting both employers and employees. By adapting to these new requirements, construction companies can protect their workforce while meeting updated compliance standards.

    Don’t let outdated safety practices put your workforce at risk—stay ahead of industry changes with expert insights and updates. Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media to ensure your team is always protected and compliant with the latest OSHA standards.

  • Jacon Equipment enters Ontario market with advanced shotcrete solutions

    Jacon Equipment enters Ontario market with advanced shotcrete solutions

    Jacon Equipment, a leading Australian supplier of shotcrete spraying, concrete transportation, and mixing equipment, has officially entered the North American market. Partnering with Archer Mining & Civil Services Inc., based in Sudbury, Ontario, Jacon aims to fill critical gaps in the region’s tunneling and mining equipment availability.

    The move is a significant milestone for Jacon, a company renowned for its purpose-built equipment that supports mining, tunneling, and construction. Their entry comes at a time when shotcrete application is gaining traction among North American tunneling professionals, particularly for its role in structural support during rapid excavations using techniques such as the Sequential Excavation Model (SEM) and New Austrian Tunneling Method (NATM).

    “Steve Archer and his team have deep roots in the underground equipment world in North America,” said Adam Doyle, president of global sales for Jacon. “They are already making inroads for Jacon, and the response has been very positive.”

    Jacon’s equipment lineup includes eight models of shotcrete sprayers, six concrete transport vehicles, eight concrete pumps, and a range of utility vehicles. Here is a breakdown of what they offer:

    • Shotcrete sprayers: Jacon’s shotcrete sprayers, such as the MaxiJet MX3 MKII, are designed for precise and efficient underground spraying. They feature triple-extension booms and 360° nozzle rotation to adapt to various tunneling and mining projects.
    • Concrete transport vehicles: Models like the Transmix 6000 Shotcrete Combo combine concrete mixing and spraying capabilities, offering a versatile solution for underground operations with single-operator functionality and dual cabins.
    • Concrete pumps: Jacon’s trailer-mounted and truck-mounted pumps, including the Jacon S30 Trailer Pump, deliver reliable performance for high-volume concrete placement in construction and mining.
    • Utility vehicles: The JSV3 Service Vehicle and JPV3 Personnel Vehicle are designed for transporting equipment and up to 18 personnel, while the JWJ6 Waterjet 12,000 supports dust suppression and cleaning with its large water tank capacity.

    “This line of equipment fills in the voids in what’s available to tunnellers in North America at the moment,” stated Steve Archer, president of Archer Mining. “For instance, Jacon’s eight shotcrete sprayers offer a size and specification for every job.”

    Jacon Equipment is poised to bring innovative technology to the construction and mining sectors with its expansion into Ontario. In addition to the equipment, Archer Mining, Jacon’s Canadian distributor, will provide comprehensive support alongside the equipment, including training, parts, and technical services to learn how to use shotcrete machinery.

    This partnership not only doubles the equipment options available to contractors in the mining and construction sectors but will also improve the systems we use to mine and build tunnels, making things more efficient and safe. As the company builds momentum in North America, industry leaders and workers alike are keeping a close eye on the impact Jacon’s entry will have on the future of tunneling and mining operations.

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  • Built by Builders: How industry experts are solving construction challenges

    Built by Builders: How industry experts are solving construction challenges

    The construction industry is evolving, and technology is playing a larger role than ever before. However, many tools fail to address the practical challenges construction teams face. That’s where “Built by Builders” comes in—a coalition of eight technology companies founded by industry professionals to create solutions that align with builders’ real-world needs, making day-to-day operations smoother and more efficient.

    What is “Built by Builders”?

    “Built by Builders” is a collaboration of construction technology companies with a common mission: to create tools informed by practical experience in the field. Founded and run by former contractors, engineers, and project managers, these companies understand the pressures of managing projects, costs, and timelines. By pooling their knowledge and resources, they aim to simplify workflows and make construction technology more intuitive for users.

    Who’s involved?

    The coalition is composed of eight innovative companies led by industry veterans:

    • ConCntric: Led by Founder and CEO Steve Dell’Orto, ConCntric offers a pre-construction management platform that unifies workflow, data, and people.
    • Document Crunch: Co-founded by CEO Josh Levy, Document Crunch provides a contract and project document compliance platform tailored for construction.
    • Clearstory: Founded by CEO Cameron Page, Clearstory is the construction industry’s first change order communication tool, designed to reduce change order risk for all project stakeholders.
    • Togal.AI: Under the leadership of Founder and CEO Patrick Murphy, Togal.AI offers AI-powered takeoff software that automates the detection, measurement, and labeling of project spaces on architectural plans.
    • ProjectMark: Co-founded by CEO Tom Deane, ProjectMark is a CRM built for the construction industry, empowering teams to enhance productivity and make informed decisions.
    • SALUS: Led by co-founder and CEO Gabe Guetta, SALUS provides safety management software that offers intuitive solutions for the field and real-time compliance insights for businesses.
    • Kaster.app: Co-founded by CEO Joseph Leiva, Kaster is a subcontractor compliance platform that automates workflows. It offers comprehensive compliance checks and visibility to reduce risk.
    • PLOT: Founded by CEO Chris Callen, PLOT is a job site coordination tool designed to efficiently track procurement and delivery workflows.

    Why it matters

    Construction professionals often face issues like delayed timelines, rising material costs, and difficulty managing complex projects. While technology has the potential to help, many solutions fall short because they don’t account for the realities of the job site.

    Steve Dell’Orto, Founder and CEO of ConCntric and one of the founding members of “Built by Builders,” emphasized the initiative’s mission: “Our goal is to create a platform where industry innovators can support each other, collaborate on groundbreaking ideas, and elevate the construction sector as a whole. This isn’t just an association—it’s a movement to ensure the solutions shaping our industry are built on real-world experience and a deep understanding of what builders truly need.”

    What does the future hold?

    As “Built by Builders” grows, its approach could inspire more collaboration between tech innovators and construction professionals. The construction industry is known to be slow to adopt new technology into its processes. By creating tools that address real needs, the coalition hopes to achieve a higher technology adoption rate, optimize workflows, and reduce challenges plaguing the industry.

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  • When DeWALT meets McLaren F1: A tool collaboration worth the hype for both construction workers and F1 enthusiasts

    When DeWALT meets McLaren F1: A tool collaboration worth the hype for both construction workers and F1 enthusiasts

    DEWALT, a trusted leader in power tools, has teamed up with the McLaren Formula 1 Team to introduce a limited-edition series that merges cutting-edge engineering with striking, race-inspired design. This collaboration isn’t just about style—it’s about creating tools that deliver unmatched performance, durability, and innovation. The DEWALT x McLaren F1 lineup includes standout pieces like the Compact Series Hammer Drill and the High Torque Impact Wrench, built for heavy-duty tasks with grease-resistant housing. Whether you’re a professional in the trades or a Formula 1 fan, this collection offers a unique blend of practicality and flair that sets it apart from anything DEWALT has done before.

    What the collaboration entails

    If you love Formula 1 and appreciate quality tools, DeWALT’s partnership with McLaren F1 is revving up excitement. Combining McLaren’s precision engineering with DeWALT’s reputation for durability, this collaboration brings a unique, motorsport-inspired collection of power tools to the market. 

    The DeWALT x McLaren F1 Team collaboration introduces a range of 18V XR Brushless tools, including a Hammer Drill Driver, Impact Driver, and a Twin Kit that combines both. Each tool features a distinctive black design with silver accents and co-branding, symbolizing the union of DeWALT’s durability and McLaren’s racing heritage. Additionally, the series includes specialized storage solutions like the TSTAK 3-in-1 Rolling Workshop Bundle and a Pro Backpack, designed for efficient organization and mobility. 

    DEWALT’s collaboration with McLaren demonstrates how two performance-driven brands can come together to create a range that delivers both function and form. These tools aren’t just for show—they’re engineered to perform under pressure, whether on a racetrack or in a garage.  

    However, the exclusivity of these tools is worth noting. Currently available only in Europe, buyers in the US and Canada may have to wait for a wider release—or take a trip abroad to grab these unique pieces.  

    How these tools differ from DeWALT’s normal line

    The McLaren F1 collection is more than a rebranding exercise. While the tools retain the technical specs of DeWALT’s professional-grade lineup, they include exclusive design features and custom packaging to emphasize their motorsport connection.  

    While maintaining DeWALT’s renowned performance standards, the McLaren F1 series introduces unique design elements and features tailored for automotive professionals. The tools are powered by G-Class POWERSTACK batteries, engineered with chemical and grease-resistant housing and a rubber base to prevent surface marking, catering specifically to the demands of automotive environments. The limited edition design and co-branding add a collectible aspect for enthusiasts and professionals alike.  

    One important feature is their striking aesthetic. The papaya orange and sleek black accents mirror the McLaren F1 team’s color scheme. This unique design makes them highly collectible. Beyond their looks, these tools include extra features like engraved McLaren branding and limited-edition numbering.  

    Overview of the tools available in this lineup

    18V XR Brushless Hammer Drill Driver

    What we loveThings to consider
    – High-performance brushless motor delivers up to 34,000 beats per minute, suitable for heavy-duty tasks
    – Compact and ergonomic design enhances user comfort during prolonged use
    – Equipped with G-Class POWERSTACK batteries, offering longer runtime and durability
    – Limited availability, currently exclusive to the European market
    – Premium pricing due to the limited edition and specialized features

    The 18V XR Brushless Hammer Drill Driver combines power and precision, making it ideal for professionals requiring reliable performance. Its compact design allows access to tight spaces, while the high BPM ensures efficient drilling through various materials. The inclusion of G-Class POWERSTACK batteries enhances its suitability for automotive applications, providing resilience against chemicals and grease. The limited edition design adds a unique aesthetic appeal, making it a standout addition to any toolkit. 

    18V XR Brushless Impact Driver

    What we loveThings to consider
    – Delivers up to 205Nm of torque, handling demanding fastening applications with ease
    – Compact size of 100mm, allowing for operation in confined spaces
    – Features a variable speed trigger for enhanced control over different tasks
    – Limited edition availability may affect accessibility and pricing
    – Specific design elements may not appeal to all users

    The 18V XR Brushless Impact Driver offers substantial torque in a compact form, making it suitable for a range of fastening tasks. Its small size and ergonomic design reduce user fatigue, while the variable-speed trigger provides precise control. The specialized G-Class POWERSTACK batteries ensure durability in automotive settings, and the limited-edition design adds a unique touch for collectors and fans of the McLaren F1 Team. 

    18V XR Brushless Twin Kit

    What we loveThings to consider
    – Includes both the Hammer Drill Driver and Impact Driver, offering versatility for various applications
    – Comes with two G-Class POWERSTACK batteries, ensuring extended runtime and durability
    – Packaged in a TSTAK Kitbox for organized storage and easy transportation
    – Higher upfront cost due to the inclusion of multiple tools and accessories
    – Limited edition status may lead to scarcity and increased demand

    The 18V XR Brushless Twin Kit provides a comprehensive solution for professionals seeking drilling and fastening capabilities. Two G-Class POWERSTACK batteries ensure ample power for extended tasks, and the TSTAK Kitbox offers a convenient storage solution. The limited-edition design adds a layer of exclusivity, appealing to collectors and fans of high-performance tools. 

    Limited Edition DEWALT/McLaren TSTAK 3-in-1 Rolling Workshop Bundle

    What we loveThings to consider
    – Combines wheeled mobile storage with deep storage toolbox and clear-lid organizer, enhancing tool organization
    – Durable construction designed to withstand the rigors of automotive environments
    – Modular design allows for customizable storage solutions
    – Limited availability may make it difficult to purchase
    – Premium pricing compared to standard storage solutions

    This TSTAK 3-in-1 Rolling Workshop Bundle offers a versatile storage solution for professionals on the move. Its combination of wheeled mobility, deep storage, and clear-lid organization ensures that tools are easily accessible and well-protected. The durable construction is tailored to withstand the demands of automotive settings, and the modular design allows users to customize their storage configuration. The limited-edition design adds a unique aesthetic, making it desirable for enthusiasts. 

    DEWALT x McLaren F1 Team Pro Backpack

    What we loveThings to consider
    – Features a water-resistant compartment and waterproof base, protecting tools from environmental elements
    – Includes 43 pockets, providing ample storage for various tools and accessories
    – Ergonomic design ensures comfortable transportation of tools
    – Limited edition availability may affect accessibility
    – Higher price point compared to standard tool 

    The Team Pro Backpack is designed with functionality and style in mind, making it a reliable choice for professionals working in tough conditions or fans looking for a collectible item. Its 43 compartments offer generous storage space, allowing users to carry everything from hand tools to power tool accessories. The water-resistant material and waterproof base ensure tools remain protected, even in wet or dirty environments, while the ergonomic straps reduce strain during transport. The sleek black-and-silver design and McLaren branding make it visually appealing while maintaining the durability and practicality expected from DEWALT.  

    Bottom line  

    The DEWALT x McLaren F1 Team collaboration offers a standout collection of tools that blend engineering brilliance with practical features. From high-performance hammer drills to modular storage solutions, this limited-edition lineup caters to professionals and fans alike. Their durability, innovative features, and striking design make them a must-have for anyone who values performance and aesthetics.  

    While the tools are currently available only in European markets, their popularity could lead to a global release. Until then, fans outside Europe will have to admire them from afar or find creative ways to obtain them.  

    For more articles exploring cutting-edge products in the trades and engineering sectors, subscribe to our weekly newsletter. Don’t miss the latest trends and innovations in construction and beyond!  

  • New FORTIFIED standards boost storm resilience for 2025 construction

    New FORTIFIED standards boost storm resilience for 2025 construction

    The Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) has announced updates to its 2025 FORTIFIED Home Standards, which aim to enhance resilience against increasingly severe storms. These revisions build on the program’s proven success in reducing property damage, improving safety, and saving costs in high-risk areas. Strengthening requirements for roof performance, opening protection, and building maintenance aims to address vulnerabilities exposed during recent hurricanes and extreme weather events.

    Key updates

    One key update is the increased focus on preventing water intrusion, a leading cause of costly repairs. Builders must implement better-sealed roof systems and elevated thresholds to minimize water damage during heavy rainfall and high winds. Another significant change is the revised standards for impact resistance. Windows, doors, and other openings will require tougher materials and installation techniques to withstand flying debris. Additionally, there are new requirements for periodic roof inspections, which will help maintain the integrity of these systems over time.

    These changes emphasize accessibility for builders and homeowners. The 2025 updates include simplified guidance, making compliance more achievable for contractors of all experience levels. IBHS has also partnered with local governments and industry professionals to provide training and certification programs, ensuring the workforce is prepared to meet these updated standards.

    Impact on the industry

    The construction industry stands to benefit significantly from these improvements. Fewer claims for storm-related damage mean lower insurance costs for property owners and reduced liability for builders. For municipalities, more resilient buildings translate to less strain on disaster response systems and infrastructure. The updates also help builders stand out in competitive markets, where consumers increasingly prioritize durable, storm-resistant properties.

    By incorporating these new standards, architects, engineers, and contractors can reduce risks and build long-lasting relationships with clients who value quality and safety. These improvements highlight the importance of proactive construction practices in mitigating damage and ensuring long-term performance.

    If you work in construction or design, it’s time to get familiar with these changes. Adopting the 2025 FORTIFIED standards will help future-proof your projects and position your business as a leader in storm-resilient building practices. 

    Stay on top of construction innovations like this—subscribe to the Under the Hard Hat newsletter at underthehardhat.org/join-us and never miss an update on industry advancements.

  • Skanska secures $450M project to modernize Logan Airport in Boston 

    Skanska secures $450M project to modernize Logan Airport in Boston 

    Skanska has landed a $450 million contract to upgrade Boston’s Logan International Airport, marking another major project for the global construction giant. The improvements will include a new parking garage, enhancements to Terminal E, and critical infrastructure upgrades to accommodate the airport’s growing passenger volume and improve overall efficiency. The Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) awarded the contract, recognizing Skanska’s extensive expertise in large-scale infrastructure projects.  

    Logal International Airport, Boston MA.

    Key details of the project  

    The centerpiece of this effort is a six-level parking garage designed to serve Logan’s Terminal E, the airport’s international gateway. The structure will provide nearly 2,000 parking spaces, easing congestion at the terminal. Additional upgrades include modifications to the existing roadway systems to improve traffic flow and accessibility.  

    Terminal E itself will see substantial renovations, including new passenger amenities and enhanced operational efficiency. Skanska plans to modernize key areas, optimizing the terminal’s layout to better serve domestic and international travelers. These updates aim to enhance the passenger experience while addressing increased demand.  

    The project also includes improvements to Logan’s utilities and aviation infrastructure. This portion of the contract will ensure the airport meets updated regulatory standards and future-proofs its systems against the rising demands of air travel.  

    Commitment to sustainability and community

    Sustainability is a critical focus for this project. Skanska will incorporate energy-efficient systems and eco-friendly materials throughout construction. The new parking structure, for example, is designed with sustainability in mind, integrating technologies that reduce environmental impact.  

    Additionally, Skanska’s team has committed to minimizing disruption to airport operations and the surrounding community during construction. Collaboration with Massport and other stakeholders will ensure the upgrades are completed with as little inconvenience as possible for travelers and residents.  

    What this means for Boston’s airport and economy  

    The upgrades at Logan Airport come at a time when Boston continues to establish itself as a major international hub. With passenger traffic returning to pre-pandemic levels and expected to grow, the improvements will position the airport to handle the increased demand efficiently.  

    Beyond the direct impact on air travel, this project will also benefit Boston’s economy by creating hundreds of jobs during construction. Once complete, the enhancements are expected to drive further economic growth by increasing the airport’s capacity for international flights and attracting more business to the region.  

    Bottom line 

    Skanska’s $450 million project at Logan Airport will include major improvements, from a new parking garage to modernized terminal facilities and infrastructure upgrades. These updates will enhance the passenger experience, support Boston’s growing travel demands, and prioritize sustainability. 

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  • Valsoft Corporation expands in the construction software industry with acquisition of Buildsoft

    Valsoft Corporation expands in the construction software industry with acquisition of Buildsoft

    Canadian company Valsoft announced its latest acquisition, Buildsoft, in early December 2024. Valsoft specializes in developing and acquiring vertical market software companies. The addition of Buildsoft, which specializes in estimating, takeoff, and tender management solutions for the construction industry, will further strengthen its team.

    Buildsoft has been serving Australian and international markets for over 40 years. They streamline the preconstruction process by providing accurate and streamlined task management, helping construction industries achieve profitability and success more quickly. 

    This latest announcement marks Valsoft’s fourth global construction software industry acquisition but its first foray into takeoff, estimation, and tender management software. Buildsoft’s management team will continue to serve on board and maintain the business’s reputation among current and new clients as the companies continue to scale together. 

    “Buildsoft has built a strong reputation in the construction software industry over its four decades of operation. The resilience of the team and its commitment to providing best-in-class products and customer support make Buildsoft an ideal partner for Valsoft’s anticipated expansion in the estimating and takeoff industry,” states Joseph Khoubbieh, the Chief Investment Officer at Valsoft. “We look forward to working on the next phase of growth with James Cunningham, who will remain as the Managing Director of Buildsoft, alongside the current Buildsoft team.”

    Buildsoft, founded in 1985, offers impactful solutions to foster the effective management of preconstruction tasks. Its main products are Cubit Select and Cubit Estimating, which focus on tender management solutions. Valsoft, on the Other hand, focuses on acquiring and developing software businesses that deliver mission-critical solutions. Unlike private equity firms, Valsoft does not have a pre-defined investment horizon. Instead, it aims to hold, buy, and create value through long-term partnerships with existing management and clientele. 

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