Construction employment declined in more than nine out of 10 metro areas from March to April, a time when industry employment typically increases in most locations, an analysis by the Associated General Contractors of America of new government data shows. Association officials said new federal transportation funding could help restore many lost construction jobs, but cautioned that new legislation released recently by House Democrats includes new regulatory measures that could undermine the broader goals of the measure.

The chief executive officer of the Associated General Contractors of America, Stephen E. Sandherr, issued the following statement in reaction to the passage of the Paycheck Protection Program Flexibility Act of 2020: “This new law improves upon the original Paycheck Protection Program by extending the coverage period to 24 weeks, revising the ratio of percentage of expenses allowed to be forgiven up to 60 percent payroll costs and 40 percent non-payroll, extending the maturity period for the loans from two years to five, and allowing loan recipients to defer payroll taxes through the end of 2020.”

Joe Piro is the vice president of supply chain for Providence, Rhode Island-based Gilbane Building Co., the 10th largest contractor in the U.S., according to ENR’s Top 400 List. Since the coronavirus crisis began, Piro has been tracking supply chain lead times and prices for common construction materials. He compiles biweekly reports charting the materials and products that are in short supply due to pandemic-related economic conditions.

As news of the coronavirus impact continues to unfold, this page will serve as a way to track projects or cities that have halted construction due to the pandemic.

Fortunately, our day-to-day processes look different, but business is going successfully. Unfortunately, we realize that we will feel the greatest impact in the months to come. To prepare, Cox is in the process of providing additional cross-training, anticipating that some employees may be furloughed or faced with taking family or sick time.

There is only one chance to make a good first impression. For companies, that first impression comes during the interview process as they meet with prospective candidates. Not every interview is going to result in an offer—and that’s okay. But it’s still important for every candidate to leave their interview feeling valued and thinking positively about the company so they can represent the company in a positive light in their networks. So, how can companies make sure that every interview is a positive experience for a candidate? 

COVID-19 has disrupted our work and family routines. COVID-19 has increased stress and anxiety even among those fortunate to be working. As stress levels have intensified, alcohol and substance use are reportedly rising significantly.

On May 26, OSHA launched a webpage with coronavirus-related guidance for construction employers and workers. The guidance includes recommended actions—many of which AGC members have likely already incorporated in their safety plans—to reduce the risk of exposure to the coronavirus. One item AGC members should take note of is how the guidance details specific construction tasks with exposure risk levels (from low to very high). AGC will continue to monitor how the current pandemic progresses to keep members up to date.

Now, more than ever, safety is crucial both inside and outside the workplace, which is why the National Safety Council will still be recognizing National Safety Month® in June. Observed annually by NSC, the nation’s leading nonprofit safety advocate, National Safety Month focuses on saving lives and preventing injuries, from the workplace to anyplace. Given the current state of the world, the month will look a little different than past years. Instead of focusing on a single topic each week, we will provide real-time, relevant resources on a variety of topics for keeping workers safe in our new normal. Sign up now to access free materials on pressing topics.

Chicago, Illinois

CISCA is the global premier authority for the interior construction, acoustical ceilings and acoustical treatment industry. Market your products/services to the multi-billion dollar interior systems industry today.

CISCA is the global premier authority for the interior construction, acoustical ceilings and acoustical treatment industry, fostering professional development and exchanges for and between association members and industry professionals. Be sure to visit our website often as new material is posted regularly.

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Michael O’Donnell, Ceiling Contractor Specialist