WASHINGTON, D.C. — Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) releases its 2023 Safety Performance Report, an annual guide to safety best practices on construction jobsites and comprehensive study of the impact of the STEP Safety Management System.

Established in 1989, STEP is a proven system that provides the framework to measure, …

If Oscars were handed out for events that produce the best networking and business learning experience, the Independent Equipment Dealers Association’s (IEDA) 2023 Annual Meeting would walk away with the show – including categories of best directed, best scenery, best attended, and best cast.

The Reunion Resort in Kissimmee, Florida, …

The Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM) released a study outlining how construction equipment technologies have advanced the construction industry and benefited a wide range of stakeholders, from contractors, to owners, to society as a whole.

The Benefits of Construction Equipment Technologies and Their Impact on Society details four construction equipment …

The hydraulic breaker attachment – one of the most common attachments for a remote-controlled demolition machine – generates as much as 1,500 foot-pounds of force at its tip. Typical wear and tear is expected, which is why keeping up on breaker maintenance is vital to ensure optimum performance on the …

The recent emergence of tools such as Midjourney and ChatGPT has acted as a catalyst for the widespread uptake of generative artificial intelligence (AI). Initially driven by the younger generation's penchant for exploring and utilizing AI-driven technology in creative industries, notoriety born from advances in art and content production has …

Heavy-haul trailers trek thousands of miles during their service lives and encounter many challenges – from rocks and ruts to bumps and jolts, no trailer gets out unscathed. To get the most from trailers, here are some tips to prevent costly damage and keep trailers in top shape.

Driven by compounding advances in technology and massive workforce changes in part because of the pandemic, the construction industry is now adopting robotics at an accelerated rate.

Let’s take a look at how this technology is already being used in construction and adjacent fields, what may come next and what …

From machine control systems on heavy equipment to robots that provide near real-time, progress scans, the construction industry is fast becoming a tech-rich environment. While it has taken some time to gain momentum, the emerging digital ecosystem is a hotbed of opportunity for owners and construction professionals alike.

Many tech-enabled …

Big bridges are impressive feats of engineering, connecting people and places with their towering presence. However, hidden within these architectural marvels lie the secrets to their longevity and structural integrity. Enter ultrasonic testing (UT) – a technique that peels back the layers of steel to reveal any weaknesses, cracks, or …

CASE Construction Equipment is bringing back the iconic “Construction King” name and releasing five new backhoe loader models to the North American market to deliver more comprehensive and diverse backhoe options to businesses across a broader spectrum of markets, including landscaping, rental, ag and utilities.

Two models are available immediately: …

MIAMI, FL – Coastal Construction, one of the largest general contractors in Florida and the Southeast, is winning national recognition for using artificial intelligence to accelerate the estimating of some of the most eye-catching and luxurious real estate in America.

The Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) has named …

Every three years, CONEXPO-CON/AGG descends on the Las Vegas Convention Center to showcase the latest technologies and innovations in equipment, products, and services for the construction industry. Attendees include all segments of the construction, aggregates, and ready mixed concrete industries. The show took place March 14 through 18 and over …

Built to boost jobsite uptime, the AT120 gives underground construction operators the power and stability needed to push through rock and tough ground conditions, streamlining fiber, pipeline and utility installation projects. As the largest AT drill in the world, the AT120 improves jobsite efficiency for previous mid- and maxi-size drill …

At CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2023 Hyundai Construction Equipment Americas displayed a major 31,000-square-foot exhibit featuring a wide range of new, current, and future machine models, plus demos of machine safety and remote management systems.

John Deere is continuing the performance tiering journey that began in 2020 and chose CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2023 as the world stage to introduce new models and technology features that provide differentiated value for its customers.

To help customers reduce their carbon footprint and plan for implementing sustainable solutions through electrification, at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2023 Komatsu will featured its 20-ton PC210LCE electric excavator.

First displayed last fall at bauma, the PC210LCE was created for construction businesses that need a high-performance machine while cutting fuel costs. Featuring lithium-ion …

Stellar, a 100 percent employee-owned and operated manufacturer of high-quality mechanic trucks and cranes, tire service trucks, hooklifts, trailers and service truck and van accessories, was excited to showcase the new 10621 and 12630 Hydraulic Service Cranes at CONEXPO/CON-AGG 2023. Both cranes were introduced, along with four other redesigned …

Terex Materials Processing (MP), global manufacturer of materials processing and lifting machinery, presented its diverse portfolio representing the aggregates, environmental, concrete, material handling and lifting industries at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2023 in Las Vegas, Nevada. In total, there were 12 participating Terex MP brands, including new businesses to the portfolio, MDS and …

Topcon Positioning Systems announced the availability of a new global navigation satellite system (GNSS) option for its MC-Mobile compact machine control solution. Rounding out the company’s compact solutions portfolio, this GNSS option allows contractors to easily integrate their compact machines into fleets already powered by GNSS technology. This expansion gives …

Toro made a major step into the electric-powered equipment marketplace with the introduction of its Toro eDingo 500 compact utility loader, and now it’s taking it a step further with the next-generation eDingo. The new eDingo boosts profit and ROI with no fuel costs and zero engine exhaust emissions. It’s …

Trimble introduced the Trimble Siteworks Machine Guidance Module, extending the capabilities of Trimble Siteworks Software from surveying and layout to support on-machine excavator guidance and operator assistance. With the addition of the new software module, contractors can use the same rugged Site Positioning Systems hardware and software to perform a …

Vermeer continues to support the utility industry with the Vermeer Verifier G3+ utility locator launch. This new-generation locator delivers high accuracy, optimized connectivity and intuitive controls. The Verifier G3+ utility locator pairs with smartphones using the G3+ Map mobile app (available for IOS and Android) to plot location information, including …

Volvo CE presented an immersive platform of strength and innovation alongside Volvo Penta, Volvo Trucks, and Volvo Financial Services. Several products were featured that have benefits beyond jobsites as Volvo CE continues to lead the industry toward a more sustainable future. They included zero-emission electric machines, charging solutions, an articulated …

One of the positives to come from the COVID-19 pandemic for the construction industry was a more aggressive focus by employers on health and safety issues – important for the protection of workers, the public and the viability of construction firms themselves.

Among their actions were stepped up well-being checks …

After serving in the military, veterans may find it difficult to communicate the skills they have learned to potential employers. But many of those veterans have found a home in the construction industry – including at Sunbelt Rentals.

To that end, Sunbelt Rentals established its Veterans Program in 2020 and …

Integrated within a compressor are systems that play an essential role in regulating the machine’s flow, pressure, power, and speed to name a few. The equipment keeps a compressor – and thus an overall project – running optimally, without any setbacks.

The regulating systems offered by Atlas Copco are designed …

ASV Holdings Inc., an industry-leading manufacturer of all-purpose and all-season compact track loaders and skid steers, introduces new high-performance mulchers for the MAX-Series RT-135F and RT-75HD Posi-Track loaders as well as the first ASV-branded snow attachments. A six-way dozer blade is also included in the updated line of branded …

From screwdrivers and hammers to impact drivers and reciprocating saws, today’s workers are able to achieve levels of productivity earlier generations could only dream about. When hand and power tools are used correctly, they allow us to achieve significantly more in less time and with less effort. But if we …

WEST FARGO, ND — Doosan Bobcat, Inc., a company within Doosan Group, announces its global branding strategy to create business and growth opportunities for the Doosan Bobcat product portfolio.

Doosan Portable Power (DPP), a global manufacturer of air compressors, mobile generators, and light towers; Doosan Industrial Air (DIA), …

Manufacturers are moving fast, creating electric versions of tried-and-true equipment – but are contractors ready to make the switch? It depends. Some already have, while some aren’t yet considering it. Where do you stand?

Whether you should be renting battery-powered equipment is a decision informed by whether you need to …

While technology has been enhancing excavator performance for more than a decade, end-user demand for certain features has accelerated in the past few years.

We talked with leading manufacturers to get their take on those innovations that provide the typical construction company with the best bang for the buck – …

The familiar brand of orange construction equipment known as Doosan will now be called DEVELON throughout the world. Under the new brand name, the company will continue providing innovative products and solutions that exceed expectations, further cementing its status as a global leader in construction equipment and solutions for the …

John Deere expands its Performance Tiering Strategy to its line-up of articulated dump trucks. New to the P-Tier portfolio, the 410 and 460 ADTs retain the same fuel efficiency, dump body, and drive modes as the previous E-II models. For all P-Tier models, additional updates to the external styling and …

Mecalac – a designer, manufacturer and distributor of compact construction equipment for urban environments – offers a new hydraulic thumb option for its recently re-configured two-piece boom with offset, available for 6MCR skid excavators and 7MWR wheeled excavator models. The new thumb makes it easy to pick up, maintain and …

The North American Excavation Shoring Association (NAXSA) has timed its inaugural Shore Up for Safety week to support National Construction Safety Week from May 1-5, 2023.

"NAXSA’s event is a week-long, nationwide mobilization of members and colleagues as lifesavers, promoting safety awareness and training through hands-on activities with customers, contractors, …

Road Widener LLC, a leading global manufacturer of road construction equipment, offers the patented FH-R material placement attachment, which provides contractors with 50 percent reduced labor at one-fifth of the cost of traditional self-propelled equipment. Additionally, the remote-controlled design of the attachment allows the operator of the host machine …

In an industry where traumatic brain injuries are responsible for 25 percent of all construction fatalities, transitioning from hard hats to helmets can help save lives. The American Society of Concrete Contractors’ (ASCC) Safety and Risk Management Council (SRMC), with support from industry organizations and partners, developed the Hard …

North America is seeing a growing emphasis on sustainability and the role environmental initiatives play in making the world a cleaner, greener place to live. Both the United States and Canada have set targets to reach net-zero emissions by 2050. As states and equipment manufacturers set carbon neutrality and net …

With proposed infrastructure programs being discussed to offset the economic impacts of COVID-19, aggregate materials could see a spike in demand. This progression can lead to increased profits for mineral processing operations. However, maximizing efficiency to capitalize on this opportunity requires the right equipment. It is critical that operations evaluate …

Excavation ranks high on the list of expensive construction activities, and some projects cost more in the U.S. than anywhere else in the world. It’s also the most hazardous of tasks, requiring careful planning and risk assessment, as well as intensive management of project workflow and details – factors that …

If you have been working around construction equipment you have probably heard of the "Equipment Triangle," a philosophy that is one of the fundamental tenets of the Association of Equipment Management Professionals (AEMP). The theory behind the equipment triangle is that all transactions between end users, distributors, and OEM/suppliers should …

The new Genie GTH-1256 Telescopic Handler builds on the robust design of the Genie 6K, 8K and 10K telehandlers, expanding Genie’s telehandler family. The new 12,000-pound capacity telehandler is purposefully designed to improve durability, lower total cost of ownership and provide maximum productivity on the jobsite. Focused on simplifying fleet …

It is with great sadness that GOMACO announces the death of President, CEO and company cofounder, Gary L. Godbersen. Godbersen peacefully passed away on January 17, the opening day of World of Concrete 2023. He was 83 years old.

Godbersen dedicated his life to the concrete slipform paving industry. …

As workhorses in the construction industry, dozers are known for their powerful earthmoving capabilities, easily pushing dirt across the jobsite. Dozers consist of many essential components that need to be maintained in order to keep performing at their best.

By following these seven routine maintenance tips from Moo Young Park …

The intent of design and construct (D&C) contracts is to cut costs by keeping both the design of the building and its construction to a single entity. The idea is that by doing so, the architects and the construction sides of the business will communicate better and create efficiencies that …

The vision is there.

Wouldn’t it be great if the entire jobsite – the general contractor, subs, designers, owners, equipment vendors and material suppliers – were all working in sync with the data that shifts with each condition change, progress report, change order, telematics warning, and machine inspection? That the …

Delivering on its vision for zero accidents, Volvo Construction Equipment (Volvo CE) launches its Collision Mitigation System for Volvo Wheel Loaders – an automatic braking feature that supports operator response and helps reduce the risk or consequences of collision when working in reverse.

The first system of its kind from …

Prophix Software's CEO, Alok Ajmera, has pulled together some helpful insights and tips for construction finance executives to consider as we enter into the beginning of 2023, with an emphasis on consistent and rigorous financial planning knowing "cash is king!"

Recently, JLG partnered with Sunbelt Rentals to evaluate the industry’s first all-electric scissor lift’s performance in below-freezing conditions, and the results prove how far battery technology has advanced in the aerial industry.

“Electric machine operation and productivity in conditions below 32°F (0°C) have traditionally been a huge concern in cold-temperature …

The number of women working in the construction industry recently hit an all-time high of 1 million, and the Department of Commerce plans to take that number even higher with its recently announced Million Women in Construction initiative. The initiative aims to build a new, inclusive American workforce by doubling …

With over 23 years of extensive and varied experience with the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), Gloria Shepherd has been named the 11th Executive Director of FHWA. Shepherd is the first woman and first African American in FHWA’s history to hold this position.

“Our nation’s street and highway infrastructure is changing …

In November, more than 5,700 owners, design professionals and contractors gathered in Las Vegas for Trimble’s user conference Dimensions+ 2022. It had been four years since Trimble hosted the conference, and attendees were treated to a showcase of innovation and advancement in 480 learning sessions and off-site field demonstrations. …

The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) provides $973 billion for infrastructure from 2022 to 2026, including $550 billion in new investments. Because new construction projects take years of planning prior to being let for bid, any money spent in 2022 was already moving through existing funding programs.

FMI Corp’s …

Applications, regulations, treatments - there’s plenty to consider when understanding your pressure requirements.

Electric energy, often referred to as “green” energy, is becoming more common in the construction industry, specifically in compact equipment like mini excavators. In recent years, a number of equipment manufacturers have displayed prototype or pilot machines powered by batteries.

Recognizing the global trend toward becoming carbon neutral and considering …

While sustainability in data center operations has long been an industry focus, sustainable data center construction is anticipated to play a larger role in achieving the near-term 2030 goals set by the Paris Agreement.

General contractors are the crux of the construction industry. They directly affect the energy, water, and …

Vibrating screens work at the heart of an operation; every ton of material must be screened at least once before it is loaded into a truck for sale. And just like the human heart, they need to be kept strong and healthy to do their job well.

Maintenance crews have …

At the center of any construction alternative power discussion is diesel.

Diesel remains the go-to power on jobsites – according to the Diesel Technology Forum, 98 percent of construction’s energy use in the United States comes from diesel.
But with global initiatives underway to reduce carbon emissions to net zero …

Our industry is in a unique position - one of tremendous opportunity in part due to investment from the federal government, and one of challenges that include inflation, supply chain delays, a prolonged labor shortage, and increasing environmental accountability. These market dynamics have many contractors adjusting conventional practices, rethinking workflows …

FALLS CHURCH, VA — In 2017, as awareness of mental health and substance use disorder struggles increased, the unionized sheet metal industry launched its Helpline, operated around the clock by a licensed counselor and available to dependent families and members of the International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and …

LAS VEGAS, NV — Trimble and the Hilti Group, a company that provides tools, technology, software, and services to the commercial construction industry, announce that the Hilti ON!Track asset management system will integrate with Trimble Viewpoint Vista, an ERP solution within the Trimble Construction One suite.

The announcement was …

MILWAUKEE, WI — It is hard to ignore the increasing attention autonomous construction equipment is receiving. Heavy equipment autonomy announcements in just the past year include:

• SafeAI and Obayashi Corporation demonstrating a retrofitted autonomous Caterpillar 725 articulated truck
• Shantui developing an unmanned dozer
• SRI International’s video on its prototype …

More and more National Asphalt Pavement Association (NAPA) members are committing to building a net zero future by joining NAPA’s industry-wide initiative, The Road Forward: A Vision for Net Zero Carbon Emissions for the Asphalt Pavement Industry. The initiative calls on the U.S. asphalt industry to advance technologies, products, and …

MILWAUKEE, WI — When it comes to alternative-powered construction equipment, there is little doubt that electric-powered compact machines have gained the most traction.

“The 48-volt battery packs and the duty cycles of compact machines are well matched,” said Ray Gallant, Vice President of Product Management and Productivity for Volvo …

MILWAUKEE, WI — Sustainability in the construction industry is being advanced by the public and private sectors. Governments are adopting more clean-air regulations at local and regional levels and companies are adopting sustainability policies and asking partners to help them meet their targets.

Consequently, many manufacturers have already developed — …

Working his way up from his beginnings as a tradesworker, Sergio Terreros now encourages opportunities for growth in the Hispanic construction community through his recent appointment to President and CEO of the National Hispanic Contractors Association (NAHICA).

Terreros has years of experience in advertising, marketing, and leading teams of Hispanic …

Even when construction projects take place on dry land, the presence of adjacent bodies of water can create deadly hazards – both in terms of the potential for drowning and the possibility of electrocution. Water is all around us, and it’s important for workers to treat it with respect. Whether …

The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) and Green Business Certification Inc. (GBCI) announce the appointment of Peter Templeton as President and CEO. Having served at USGBC and GBCI for over 20 years, Templeton has played a leading role in the development, launch, and ongoing operation of the LEED program and …

WASHINGTON, D.C. — America’s rural transportation system is in need of repairs and modernization to support economic growth and improve traffic safety, but the U.S. faces a $180-billion backlog in funding for needed repairs and improvements to the rural transportation system. This is according to a new report released by …

Skilled craft professionals continue to earn high wages, according to NCCER’s 2022 Construction Craft Salary Survey. More than 135 commercial, industrial and residential construction companies across the U.S., representing over 337,000 employees, participated in the survey. The individual craft areas reported provide average annual salaries, not including overtime, per …

Maintenance might not be your favorite thing to do, but this minor inconvenience can help you avoid major headaches in the future. Good maintenance practices not only keep the machine running at peak performance, but they also minimize downtime from repairs that come from ignoring key maintenance requirements. Here are …

While America’s transportation infrastructure continues to be one of the country’s greatest historical accomplishments, as well as the lifeblood of the American economy, the system itself continues to have serious challenges during the last two decades.

This is mainly due to the rise in traffic congestion which has ensnarled hundreds …

The global upheaval of the last few years has undoubtedly rocked the construction industry – and stories of labor shortages driven by COVID-19 abound. Add to that an aging workforce further stressed by current conditions, combined with a lack of skilled replacements, and the current struggle makes sense.

But beneath …

The ever-growing labor shortage is a universal issue, affecting nearly every business sector that relies on the availability of a workforce. It’s an issue that was happening before the COVID-19 pandemic and has persisted.

According to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, there are 11.3 million job openings in the U.S., …

It doesn’t matter how much aggregate is produced in a day if it is contaminated or not sized correctly. Though screen media is a minor cost when compared to larger equipment in a quarry or mine, it is a crucial part of any operation’s profit machine. One unexpected break and …

Most people in the construction industry will say that on any given work site, there is always an amount of waste that could have been avoided. Whether it be poorly handled materials, re-work, weather damage, or working from out of date documents, there are plenty of ways that humans can …

Most construction jobs run on tight timelines and margins, and to keep everything running on schedule and within budget, fleet managers use telematics to give visibility into their equipment’s location and operating condition any time of the day or night.

Telematics has been around for quite a while, however, it …

As droughts and growing population affect water security around the globe, desalination becomes an increasingly important option. In communities searching for sustainable, long-term solutions, new technology can increase the efficiency of water treatment efforts.

Initially developed in the late 1950s, reverse osmosis (RO) desalination evolved into the leading desalination process. …

Construction professionals have a golden retrofitting opportunity as commercial facilities expand their precautions against viruses: an effective new type of “germicidal” LED fixture that can be quickly and easily installed in existing structures. This specialized, enclosed LED fixture draws in air and irradiates it with ultraviolet light (UV), significantly improving …

A few years ago, I worked with a warehouse stocker named John who had injured his back and was looking to get back to full duty. His job was important to him because he had a family to support, which included taking care of an adult son with special needs. …

For over a decade, the team at Rays Electrical Services in Elgin, Illinois has worked diligently to earn the reputation of being a quality residential and commercial electrician for the greater Chicago area. Since Ray Sakolari opened the company in 2008, he’s made a commitment to employees, customers, and family …

A nation’s buildings stand as a visual representation of its history. In New England, that history is written in stone and red-brick facades overlooking century-old neighborhoods. Recent trends are bringing people and businesses back to these urban centers, forcing developers and city managers to find ways to reimagine spaces to …

Heavy equipment theft of everything from forklifts, skid steers, and trucks to bulldozers, backhoes, excavators, and wheel loaders can be a serious issue for business owners, whether at the rental yard or jobsite. Stealing batteries, catalytic converters, and entire vehicles can be a relatively low-risk, high-reward opportunity for thieves unless …

Articulated hauler specialist Terex Trucks rebrands as Rokbak and announces its vision for an exciting new future. The Scottish manufacturer unveiled the new brand at a digital launch event on September 1, attended by dealers, customers, media, and Volvo Group colleagues from around the world.

Rokbak is the new name …

BIM (building information modeling) is an intelligent 3-D model-based process that gives architecture and construction professionals the insight and tools to more efficiently plan, design, construct, and manage projects.

Forgoing the traditionally siloed architecture, engineering and construction disciplines using BIM can develop more integrated workflows to improve collaboration through the …

The adoption of technology in the construction industry in 2020 hit a record high, outpacing even the most aggressive forecasts and there are no signs of this momentum slowing. In fact, the annual Global BIM Industry Report has projected the global building information modeling (BIM) market will grow from $4.5 …

Landscapers and dedicated green industry professionals know that the key to success lies in their machines. Whether operating a ride-on trencher or walk-behind machine, it’s the performance parts – the chain, teeth and sprockets (CTS) – that often determine the productivity of an operation. In other words, when faced with …

Heavy equipment dealers’ profitability depends on efficiently renting out their assets and keeping it in good working order for the long term, whether that involves tractor trailers, semi-trailers, or moving trailers; buses or RVs; backhoes, bulldozers, cranes, excavators, scrapers, graders, dump trucks, or all-terrain forklifts.

To maximize profitability, dealers need …

As California concludes another hot, dry summer, the state faced another historic wildfire season. Not only are residents subject to unhealthy levels of smoke and significant property destruction as a result of the wildfires, but they must also face damage to public infrastructure caused by the fires or other related …

In the aggregate industry, efficient screening is critical to achieve not only high production but also accurately sized product for particular applications and projects. However, two of the most common production bottlenecks – screen blinding and plugging – must be minimized to run an effective, profitable operation.

Blinding occurs when …

Finding a level surface with plenty of room to load a trailer on today’s congested jobsite is challenging. Towing and recovery operators have it even worse – struggling to move dead equipment, often singlehandedly, while also contending with traffic, poor visibility and soft shoulders. Operators in the towing and recovery, …

When David Gordon joined the Independent Equipment Dealers Association (IEDA) as Executive Director in December 2020, he focused on one main goal.

“As we continue to grow our membership, we have to continue providing year-round value,” he said. “Our mission is to help our members be more profitable and successful …

There’s no doubt that self-driving cars, or autonomous vehicles (AVs), are much safer than the average person-manned vehicle. In fact, more than 90 percent of serious crashes are due to human error, which means autonomous vehicles have the potential to significantly reduce the number of collisions and save lives.

However, …

Electrical safety awareness isn’t just for electricians. Believe it or not, non-electrical workers actually run the largest exposure to electrical hazards. Without the electrical training that licensed electrical professionals receive, one careless mistake can turn into a big accident – or worse.

By paying attention to the small details, you …

In the construction industry, the quality of cast-in-place concrete foundations, superstructure, slabs, stairs, and architectural features, along with the speed of project completion, can largely depend on getting moisture measurement right – and the same is true with the masonry mortar used to build brick, block, or stone walls.

Water …

Hitachi continues to provide customers with efficient, reliable and durable equipment featuring advanced technology – the newest being factory-integrated Solution Linkage 2D and 3D Grade Control.

“We gave a sneak peek of Hitachi’s grade control technology at CONEXPO-CON/AGG last year,” said Justin Steger, Solutions Marketing Manager, Site Development and …

It’s become a fact of life: When you need to work for extended periods of time in high, hard-to-reach places, you turn to mobile elevated work platforms, or MEWPs (also known as aerial work platforms). Over the years, two of the most popular MEWPs – scissor lifts and boom lifts …

The pandemic has driven general contractors (GCs) to diligently record who is at their job sites and headquarters. This primarily includes workers, subcontractors, developers, realtors, and property managers. With so many different people coming onto a job site and staying anywhere from 30 minutes to several weeks or months, it …

Vacuum excavators are one of the fastest growing machine segments in the underground construction industry. Originally popularized by their role in daylighting existing utilities on directional drilling jobs, these machines are now being used for irrigation installation, landscaping, and even nursery tasks.

One reason for this growth is that vacuum …

For contractors responsible for sewer, storm and sanitary line cleaning, hose nozzles are an essential tool that directs pressurized water to clear out obstructions such as silt, sludge, grease, mineral buildup, and tree roots as part of required maintenance or to prepare pipes for re-lining. In this way, the nozzle …

When it comes to loading containers or truck bodies onto a truck chassis, regions around the world have traditionally opted for different equipment. The North American waste and recycling market usually favors the cable hoist, while the hooklift has been more prominent internationally.

One trend that all customers are impacted …

Terex Trucks comes from a strong hauling heritage: with over 70 years of experience in building robust, reliable and tough articulated haulers, the Motherwell, Scotland-based manufacturer knows how to design machines that are trusted by customers to deliver a powerful performance in all conditions. Its two models, the 30.9-ton payload …

The work truck industry includes some of the largest motor vehicle businesses in the world supplying truck chassis (incomplete vehicles) that will be completed by upfitters, using specialized bodies and equipment. These companies are all part of the complex process of producing work trucks, which starts with vocational fleets ordering …

For fleet owners looking to standardize their operation, selecting a trailer manufacturer might feel more like picking a favorite sports team than a strategic move to maximize hauling equipment investments. To some extent, it is. Teams with dedicated fans play smart and deliver results year after year. Similarly, original equipment …

Tucked away amongst wide swaths of agricultural fields and small, rural communities the Big Woods private waterfowl preserve is being developed by H2Dig LLC. The company specializes in premium outdoor recreational development and oftentimes is working in remote areas without great access to service stations, fuel, or equipment maintenance …

Water is an essential component of any construction or roadbuilding project. From dust control to site prep and compaction, thousands of gallons of water are required every day. How it is hauled and applied can significantly impact overall productivity and safety. Though water tanks appear basic, certain factors can have …

Demolition, like every industry, is constantly evolving. To keep ahead of the curve, contractors seek out the machines and methods that increase productivity while decreasing the physical toll on workers.

Concrete sawing is viable option for fast, effective removal. However, savvy contractors are finding that adding remote-control demolition robots to …

A construction site can be a bad back waiting to happen.

Whether it’s a brick mason, concrete finisher, roofer, or any other necessary occupation for a job site, workers are at risk of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) because of the nature of the job – the awkward postures, repetitive lifting, …

Heavy equipment dealers, rental companies, and service centers with underground waste disposal systems – floor drains or sinks in service bays that connect to a septic system or dry well (i.e.- catch basins) – are regulated by the EPA.

During normal vehicle repair and maintenance, fluids such as engine oil, …

Let’s face it, road widening, aggregate placement, backfilling, and other road construction tasks have always been messy, backbreaking operations. Busy road construction seasons, limited budgets, and a number of other elements have constrained equipment innovation for decades. This has left road crews in the dust, relying heavily on traditional methods …

It is obvious that knowing the condition of underground sewer and water infrastructure is necessary to properly maintain essential services, and today’s CCTV (closed circuit television) inspection systems visually identify structural and maintenance issues like cracks, broken or collapsed pipe, infiltration, grease, and roots, as well as other issues.

Mainline …

Nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, the City of Maryville, a suburb of Knoxville, Tennessee, is going through a growth spurt. With a population of nearly 30,000 people and climbing, the town has experienced a big spike in utility development within the last two to three years. …

Renting heavy machinery has become increasingly popular in the construction and mining industries with many companies now opting to rent instead of purchase equipment. In fact, market analysts predict that the heavy equipment rental industry is set to grow by 11 percent over the next three years as construction companies …

Renting heavy machinery has become increasingly popular in the construction and mining industries with many companies now opting to rent instead of purchase equipment. In fact, market analysts predict that the heavy equipment rental industry is set to grow by 11 percent over the next three years as construction companies …

Even though preventive maintenance can be the single most crucial factor in keeping an equipment fleet operating in peak condition, while lowering a machine’s total cost of ownership, it is easy to have an “if it isn’t broke, don’t fix it” mentality. Especially in lean years, maximizing each piece of …

Compact track loaders are an increasingly vital part of contractors’ businesses. The sheer versatility of these machines allows them to thrive in a variety of working conditions, and – thanks in part to growing attachment diversity – CTLs can be used for more applications than ever. A strategic purchase of …

Compact track loaders are an increasingly vital part of contractors’ businesses. The sheer versatility of these machines allows them to thrive in a variety of working conditions, and – thanks in part to growing attachment diversity – CTLs can be used for more applications than ever. A strategic purchase of …

For decades, road and bridge repair contractors have relied on the power and precision of hydrodemolition robots to increase efficiency for concrete removal and surface preparation applications. Traditional methods of bridge deck repair took hours of manual labor using handheld water jetting equipment or handheld pneumatic tools. By switching to …

Today, the owners of a growing number of non-standard building designs like museums, arenas, stadiums and structures with atria or large open spaces are turning to performance-based design for substantial cost savings and enhanced safety while maintaining architectural concerns.

As an International Code Council (ICC) accepted alternative, performance-based design allows …

Despite COVID-19’s tumultuous toll on urban living, there will come a day when normalcy returns to large metropolitan areas. Human beings are resilient; they will continue to work, learn, live, and play following economic downturns and unprecedented times that temporarily rid cities of normal activity. Downtowns have a future, and …

Whether it’s on the front lines of a battlefield, a supply chain or a construction site, culture is a fundamental aspect of human existence. Culture keeps us bonded to groups of people – whether it’s within the context of our families, our communities or even our workplaces – and allows …

When it comes to bridge design and construction, concrete is the material of choice. It’s easy to make, affordable, and can withstand a tremendous amount of compressive stress. However, concrete is not naturally flexible. It’s weak in tension, which can cause deflection on bridges and lead to cracks, which opens …

Traditionally, vacuum excavators have been used by contractors for daylighting buried utilities, minimizing disruption to the impacted area, and leaving behind a negligible mess. Today, the benefits of soft digging – the process of using a combination of suction and high-pressure water and air to remove dirt and other materials …

What’s better for clearing snow, a skid steer or a compact track loader? The common perception is that a wheeled machine would fare better, and it’s often true with many track loaders. It’s why many compact track loaders are parked for the winter while their wheeled counterparts keep working. However, …

It has been almost a year since COVID-19 was declared a pandemic, and unfortunately, we don’t have an answer as to when life will go back to normal, or even what the “new normal” will look like. Disruptions in the hard-hit construction industry – such as supply chain shortages and …

There was an estimated 600 million tons of construction and demolition (C&D) waste generated in the United States in 2018 alone, which is more than double the amount of Municipal Solid Waste (i.e. normal garbage). Concrete accounted for the largest portion of this C&D waste (67.5 percent), followed by asphalt …

After a difficult 2020, many of us are looking for things to turn around with the new year. Significant progress on a vaccine and the possibility of new funding for infrastructure projects has many in the construction industry optimistic that 2021 will put the U.S. economy back on track. We’ve …

Despite chronic difficulties sustained by contractors and others with securing human capital in January 2020, the nation added 214,000 net new jobs. It followed that up with an even more blistering 251,000 jobs in February.

For 113 consecutive months, the nation had added jobs – an unprecedented winning streak in …

Transportation construction activity is forecast to decline 5.5 percent in 2021, as transportation authorities, state, city, county, and local governments face unprecedented revenue shortfalls, budget pressures and lower demand for travel and freight services, the American Road & Transportation Builders Association (ARTBA) model shows. The 2021 market will reflect the …

Equipment and software investment growth fared better than overall GDP growth in 2020 as businesses invested to adapt to the COVID-19 pandemic, and growth should remain well into positive territory in the beginning of 2021. Annual equipment and software investment growth of 7.8 percent is forecast for 2021. Annual U.S. …

The 2020 elections appear to have delivered simultaneous rebukes to both President Trump and the liberal agenda. While he performed better than most polls predicted, as of writing, the President’s ongoing efforts to contest the election appear to have little chance of success. Yet enough down ballot elections broke Republicans’ …

McCarthy Building Companies, Inc. announces a new partnership with Adaptive Construction Solutions, Inc. (ACS) to recruit and train veterans for careers in the construction trades, addressing a national workforce shortage. Together, the two organizations will identify and enroll veterans with military occupational specialties in an apprenticeship program that can lead …

The longest U.S. economic expansion since the end of the Second World War came to an abrupt end earlier this year as the COVID-19 pandemic essentially shut down the economy. Following an unprecedented plunge in Q2-2020 – real GDP nosedived at an annualized rate of 31.4 percent – economic activity …

No one can argue that 2020 and the coronavirus pandemic have created major stressors in our personal and professional lives and have caused many of us to experience greater levels of stress, anxiety, depression, and fear. Even before COVID-19, one in five Americans suffered from a mental health condition and …

Like many cities with a long history, the skyline of San Diego, California, has changed significantly over the centuries. Even in the modern era, demolition and construction continue to transform California’s second-largest city. However, with growing populations and congested urban environments, demolition contractors are forced to find safer ways to …

For aggregate producers, efficient and accurate sizing of material during processing is essential to profitability. One renowned screening expert has termed plant screening stations as the "cash box" of the operation. Square opening, woven wire screen is still the media of choice in most aggregate operations. However, carryover of prime …

For construction firms with significant fleet vehicle and equipment assets needing to be protected from theft or vandalism, fully integrating the latest capabilities of physical security and access control systems can drive down costs significantly.

This “virtual” approach combines video surveillance, access control, and information technology (IT) integration to replace …

More and more, concrete repair contractors are turning to robotic hydrodemolition, and the reasons why are simple. The method provides faster, safer, and more efficient removal than traditional means. Recent technological advances have also made hydrodemolition machines more versatile, compact, and durable than ever before. But, one important question still …

Construction managers, general contractors, and building owners are certainly familiar with safety netting systems and the reasons to install them, which include protecting workers and debris from falling from structures, as well as façade and ceiling containment. They also believe these passive systems create and maintain a safe work environment. …

Humanitarian, hero, and three-time heavyweight champion of the world, Mohammed Ali once said, “Service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on earth.” Revered for his accomplishments in the ring and beloved the world over for his sharp wit and big heart outside of it, Ali’s …

When it comes to horizontal directional drilling (HDD), simple training is not enough – it needs to be the right training. Because HDD is an art and a science, the right training, education, and experience is a critical combination in knowing the right balance between the two.

As HDD expands …

The construction worker offers much for which to be celebrated. They transform blank canvasses of earth to create spaces for work, education, or play and build structures to cross bodies of water that connect communities. Bottom line, the construction worker helps to build a country’s future.

Driving this ability is …

The construction industry has proven to be one of the most difficult industries to revolutionize. Many aspects of constructing a building have not changed for centuries. It is becoming increasingly difficult to build in downtown urban settings where sites are tight, streets are crowded, and skilled labor is difficult to …

Tires are witness to everything that goes on in a truck and are filled with information that can tell you a great deal about your fleet.
There are many reasons tires are removed from service outside of normal wear – ranging from driver- related behavior, to running the wrong type …

When we think winter maintenance, we start thinking about cooling systems and antifreeze, fuel systems and fuel storage, engine oil, Hydraulic oil and systems, batteries and all the fluids, components and systems that suffer the ravages of cold and freezing temperatures. If its equipment, it needs winter maintenance. If operates …

Mining and quarrying are deep-rooted businesses. The oldest known mine is located in Southern Africa and was active, quite appropriately, during the Stone Age – an astounding 43,000 years ago. Possibly even more incredible are the ancient mines that are still producing.

Fast forward to today, where we find an …

One of the most time-consuming tasks while auger boring is pulling augers to check line and grade and adjust steering constantly,” said Walter Keyes, a 25-years auger boring veteran and Team Leader/Superintendent with S.J. Louis Companies. “Typically, on large-diameter sewer jobs, crews will pull augers every 20 feet, …

Near the Kansas City International Airport lies a well-traveled stretch of road that connects NE Cookingham Drive to I-435. A 20-mile jaunt separates the airport from downtown Kansas City, and while some drivers might make their way via the direct I-29 route, others choose the I-435 route that might take …

As we look ahead and try to make predictions about the future of construction, some aspects are murky. No one would have predicted the situation we found ourselves in during 2020, with a global pandemic bringing the economy to its knees, delaying construction projects nationwide, and changing the way we …

The AEC industry has been experimenting with the use of virtual reality (VR) for well over 20 years, and the medium has successfully provided value and Return on Investment (ROI). However, for many projects, the form factor, technical requirements and user friction for delivering walkthroughs has prevented the medium from …

The Construction Industry Institute (CII) and the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) recently held a webinar called “Roundtable on Perspectives and Best Practices in Owner-Contractor Collaboration During COVID-19” to provide updates on a variety of industry topics concerning the virus. The panel for the webinar featured two CII owners, …

In construction there’s always a couple of major concerns on the jobsite – performance and safety. Strangely, as performance slips so does the on-the-job safety factor.

Any job function that requires a construction worker to keep their arms raised up and over their head is where this risk is a …

When Robert “Bob” Lanham, Jr., P.E., started his tenure as 2020 President of the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC), he set three main goals: expand member engagement, increase federal investment in construction, and reduce and reform federal regulations on construction and development.

Then the COVID-19 pandemic hit. …

Traditionally, moisture tests require laborious effort and are slow to return results from the laboratory.  The risk of damage increases during transit of the materials potentially altering or destroying the entire sample, making this option much less practical for construction sites.  Industry innovators have developed a simplified approach with testing …

At 64 years old, an age at which many Americans are approaching Medicare eligibility and reduced workloads, the Interstate Highway System is deteriorating, its traffic load of cars and trucks continues to increase, and the system lacks an adequate long-term care plan.

The Interstate Highway System remains the workhorse of …

Heavy-haul trailers trek thousands of miles during their service lives and encounter many challenges – from rocks and ruts to bumps and jolts, no trailer gets out unscathed. To get the most from trailers, here are some tips to prevent costly damage and keep your trailers in top shape.

Accelerator for America recently hosted a webinar with some of the country’s most determined mayors to discuss the organization’s New Partnership on Infrastructure (NPI) initiative.

Founded by CEO Rick Jacobs, Accelerator for America is an organization led by an advisory council of mayors and other local leaders from across …

All project businesses essentially operate the same way. Whether you are in the construction, engineering or architecture industry, the overarching commonality is that your company delivers goods and services to your customers through projects, making your company a project business.

Only by recognizing your company as a project business are …

Infrastructure repair is a hot topic today, and rightfully so. From potholes to deteriorating bridges, keeping up with repairs – and finding the money to do so – is a constant struggle. In an effort to complete jobs faster and win more bids, contractors are always looking for ways to …

Once again, the U.S. economy has hit a crossroads. Even before the current COVID-19 outbreak, the predictions for the coming year were mixed at best.

On the one side, the Association of Equipment Managers (AEM) said that “Steady and solid growth is likely to continue for the construction sector. As …

It’s a common situation: Your equipment isn’t working as effectively as it was the day it came off the manufacturing line. With most tools and machines, regular maintenance and replacement of worn-out parts can be the key to restoring it back to maximum power. Earth drills are no exception. Knowing …

The history of the construction excavator goes back quite some time. The very first excavator is said to have been built in 1882 by Sir W. G. Armstrong & Company in England, where it was used in the construction of Port of Hull docks. Unlike today's excavators that use hydraulic …

As restrictions are being lifted across most states in the country and with warm weather upon us, it is important for truck drivers to consider proper management of Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) used in most diesel-powered trucks.

DEF is made from a mixture of technically pure urea and purified water …

Given the excitement with SpaceX and NASA’s recent historic manned launch, many people are looking to the stars. To many, space means rockets and satellites. However, every major component of these missions are built, designed, tested, launched, and controlled in one or more ground-based facilities. And every one of those …

There is no doubt that technology has increased project management efficiency and safety in the construction industry. Case in point: construction worker illnesses and injuries went from 10.9 incidents (in 1972) to 2.8 incidents (in 2017) per 100 people, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. But, there are …

The hardest part of a project for most contractors is the bid. Balancing customer specs with overhead costs to produce a number both sides are comfortable with takes skill and a deep understanding of an operation’s capabilities. Partnering with industry-leading OEMs to provide efficiency-optimizing equipment can give contractors an edge …

Construction was recently listed in the top 10 most dangerous jobs in America by CNBC. So when it comes to day-to-day operations, what can construction managers do to ensure workers receive the information they need to produce quality work and stay safe on the job? One company, MindForge, is …

Creative thinking and the willingness to take a new approach is often what sets innovators apart from their peers. These qualities are also the fuel that propels industry forward. Construction is one of the oldest industries, but thanks to continuous advancements in technology, techniques and materials, today’s structures have come …

The economy in Garden City, Kansas, is strong with the recent opening of a Dairy Farmers of America plant. Approximately 4 million pounds of milk from regional farmers make its way to the dairy plant each day, which has led to expansion for many other companies throughout the area. To …

Let’s face facts, the construction industry does not do well when it comes to completing projects on time and within budget. Approximately 98 percent of megaprojects suffer cost overruns of more than 30 percent and 77 percent are at least 40 percent late, according to a McKinsey & Company report. …

ARLINGTON, VA — Construction employment increased by 16,000 jobs in March and by 246,000 jobs, or 3.4 percent, over the past year, according to an analysis of new government data by the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC). Association officials called on federal officials to double funding for career and …

SILVER SPRING, MD — The National Ready Mixed Concrete Association (NRMCA) announces that its Board of Directors has selected Michael Philipps to serve as President. Philipps comes to NRMCA with more than 30 years of experience in the concrete products and construction industry, most recently as Vice President of Business …