Russell Hixson is an award-winning investigative journalist who spent the early parts of his career doing crime and courts reporting in the U.S. before stumbling into covering Canada’s construction sector. He spent eight years writing for the Journal of Commerce where he became well versed on the industry and its issues. He’s covered the federal budget from Ottawa and documented the early impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic while locked down in his bedroom.
Hixson has developed a passion for the construction industry and seeks to convert others by sharing its stories through SiteNews. When he’s not writing stories, the East Vancouver resident enjoys kayaking, skateboarding and avoiding the neighbourhood skunks.
According to the Association of Workers’ Compensation Boards of Canada, that’s how many construction workers died on the job in 2020.
Everybody should go to work and come home safe. It’s that simple.
As construction projects and sites have grown more vast and complex, companies and organizations have sought to keep up by creating new ways to ensure workers are kept safe. Below are some of their stories.
1. Kenzen
This predictive body heat sensor system for industrial workers was created by Kenzen. – Kenzen
What if you could know when your workers are overheating or need to take a break? Kenzen is making this data a reality. It provides heat and safety monitoring of key physiological indicators for each worker, such as core body temperature, heart rate, and exertion levels. The Kansas City-based company’s approach has caught the attention of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) which recently awarded them $161,000 in funding.
2. Ramtech
Workers inspect wireless fire and emergency solutions. – Ramtech
Ramtech Electronics has been supplying wireless solutions since 1990 from its Nottingham headquarters. They soon saw that their technology could apply to the jobsite and began developing wireless temporary fire alarms for construction. They also created the REACT system which gives construction teams a simple and secure means of communicating fire, medical and other site emergencies to affected personnel, both on and off site. Their team recently published a white paper exploring the modern fire and life safety solutions for construction in North America.
3. Hexoskin
Chris Hemsworth dons a Hexoskin garment while filming a show for the Discovery Channel. – Hexoskin
It’s not quite Ironman’s suit, but it still could help keep you safe. Hexoskin Smart Garments include textile sensors embedded into garments for precise and continuous cardiac, respiratory, and activity monitoring. The Montreal company’s users can visualize, report, and analyze their data with the Hexoskin Connected Health Platform. In Australia, the technology is being used to monitor the health and vitals of truck drivers to study the impacts of driver fatigue.
4. Blackline Safety
Blackline made the world’s first 3G-connected gas detector with integrated lone worker monitoring and other tools. – Blackline
It’s all about the internet of things (IoT) with Blackline Safety. The Calgary company says its connected safety devices and predictive analytics helps companies drive towards zero safety incidents and improved operational performance. Blackline provides wearable devices, personal and area gas monitoring, cloud-connected software and data analytics for companies in more than 100 countries. Blackline Safety recently closed its largest contract to date in the Middle East with a three-year value of almost $500,000 with OQ Oman, a global integrated energy company operating in 17 countries.
5. SmartCap
A rendering shows now SmartCap’s technology can be integrated into construction safety gear. – SmartCap
You have to give a tip of the hat to this team. An active job site or the highway is no place for a nap. SmartCap’s wearable hat technology was developed using electroencephalography as it is unaffected by glare, humidity, head turns, eye disease, or behaviour. SmartCap’s tech is predictive and does not require post processing or live monitoring of data to provide real-time operator alerts. The Australian company has caught the attention of the mining sector. In 2021, SmartCap was acquired by Wenco International Mining Systems, a subsidiary of Hitachi Construction Machinery. This video demonstrates how the product can be used.
6. Boston Dynamics
Spot, a Boston Dynamics robot, trots through a construction site. – Boston Dynamics
In addition to progress monitoring, BIM model comparison and digital twin creation, Boston Dynamics’ robots are advancing construction safety. Builders can use the Massachusetts-based company’s Spot robot to survey confined spaces and keep workers out of hazardous environments. They can also feed image data on programmed routes into specialized downstream software to detect health and safety issues. General contractor Pomerleau currently uses Spot to track project progress with HoloBuilder site documentation software.
7. SolePower
An infographic shows some of the feature’s of SolePower’s technology. – SolePower
These boots have a brain. SolePower has developed a proprietary sensor platform that can be installed in standard construction work boots to measure the worker’s indoor and outdoor position, step count, speed, time spent in work areas and more. The data is delivered to a front-end visualization for managers to gain awareness of the workflow and status of their workforce anywhere in the world. The Pennsylvania-based company was founded out of Carnegie Mellon University Engineering and boasts a team of former NASA and manufacturing engineers. They have already successfully delivered test units to the US Army under two consecutive contracts.
8. BC Construction Safety Alliance (BCCSA)
The BCCSA’s Silica Control Tool was developed with the help of science experts and data. – BCCSA
To help builders in B.C. keep workers safe from silica dust exposure, the BCCSA developed the Silica Control Tool. The tool assists employers in conducting appropriate risk assessments and implementing effective controls and safe work practices where respirable crystalline silica dust may be an occupational hazard. The tool relies on scientific studies and data collected from a team of medical researchers. With this it can predict the expected exposures to workers under similar conditions.
9. North American Traffic
North American Traffic’s team takes a group photo at their Ontario headquarters. – North American Traffic
Flagging is one of the most dangerous jobs in the industry and every year flaggers are killed by vehicles. But what if a flagger didn’t have to be on the road at all? North American Traffic’s automatic flagging solution has been around for many years but it’s still worth noting. Peter Vieveen, the company’s founder and president developed the device while working in the construction sector and witnessing the dangers flaggers face firsthand.
10. myComply
myComply’s platform is designed to ensure workers have the right qualifications. – myComply
Founded in 2015, Saskatoon and Brooklyn-based myComply is a technology platform that ensures construction site compliance and provides worker analytics. myComply is looking to transform how training certifications are managed and verified on construction sites. The platform combines intelligent hardware with easy-to-use software used to verify safety training. Just last year, the New York City Department of Buildings hired myComply to build and administer the software behind an innovative construction safety database for more than 150,000 workers.
11. Construction Ontario
Construction Ontario has bene developing and offering virtual reality training for construction. – Construction Ontario
Construction safety training is beginning to go virtual thanks to training providers like Construction Ontario. Construction Ontario provides ready-to-go, out-of-the-box virtual reality (VR) and interactive e-learning training that uses Microsoft’s Holo Lens 2. Each course is designed with experts in training, and all training modules include active user instruction, reinforcement of OSHA principles, and corrections/tallies of incorrect actions. Construction Ontario noted that studies show VR students learn faster, are more focused and feel more confident than traditional students.
Biolift
A worker demonstrates Biolift’s exoskeleton system. – Biolift
Not all construction injuries are sudden and severe. Many creep up on you over time. Montreal-based Biolift wants to give your body a break with its exoskeleton tech. Using compressed air springs, the system stores the mechanical energy of the body when you bend your back and redistributes it when you stand up. By supporting up to 20 kg, the exoskeleton relieves the back to prevent injury and fatigue. Since 2019, the Biolift team has been working with the workers from Eurovia Québec and multiple construction companies to refine the technology.
Key Takeaways:
The six-storey industrial project is using vertical space to make the most out of limited industrial land in Metro Vancouver.
The project includes a cafe, rooftop space, a dog area and more for businesses to mingle.
Before construction, the project team canvassed the community to make sure it would target local needs first.
The Whole Story:
An innovative project in Metro Vancouver isn’t just looking to add supply to the region’s tight industrial market. It wants to create a community.
Wesbild’s Marine landing, which broke ground this March, features two, six-storey stacked industrial and office buildings at 170,000 square feet each, with flexible strata workspaces ranging from 600 to 34,000 square feet. The smaller unit sizes provide appropriate floorplates for businesses with less need for physical square footage, but still require all the functionality and flexibility of a modern industrial space. The larger industrial units provide open-concept spaces ideal for businesses that need open areas and purpose-built industrial amenities.
“It accommodates industrial use vertically as opposed to horizontally,” explained Lilian Arishenkoff, senior VP of development for Wesbild. “That’s a new evolution in industrial spaces, primarily for urban areas. With land prices so high and vacancy so low, we have had to think of new ways to accommodate those needs. To get maximum density out of the site, we have gone upwards.”
The project is the first six-storey industrial project in Western Canada. But it’s not just about volume.
“Whatever we do – residential, commercial, mixed-use, industrial – there is a focus on creating community,” added Arishenkoff. “We put a lot of thought into what it will be like to live there and spend time there. Quite frankly, most of our time is spent at our place of business so we want to make a place where people are comfortable.”
Before developing the project, the team canvassed the surrounding area for several kilometres to see what sort of businesses might be looking for new space and if they would be interested in buying their own unit.
“We didn’t want to come in and be a development that brings in people from the outside,” said Arishenkoff. “We wanted to work with the existing community framework.”
Units have been sold to several local companies including a fishing lure manufacturer, dental crown manufacturer, an action figure importer and fashion wholesalers. Breka Bakery is also setting up a new commissary and 24/7 café at the project.
“We put a lot of effort into designing spaces and landscapes that provide opportunities for chance meetings, to rub shoulders with someone you may not have otherwise met or connected with,” said Arishenkoff.
The design features oversized elevators, extra-wide corridors, at-grade and dock loading areas, wide loading bays, spacious delivery facilities to make logistics easier with more than 50 oversized parking stalls, 395 regular sized parking stalls, including 42 EV charging stations, large flexible lounge space for meetings, events and socializing, a full kitchen and more. It’s also a six-minute walk to marine gateway shops, residences, and the Canada Line – an important feature for owners and employees who want to avoid Metro Vancouver’s car traffic, noted Arishenkoff.
The site currently has two cranes up and work is being done on footings and columns. Arishenkoff anticipates construction could be done near the end of 2024. She said that there are still units available in the second building. The greatest demand has been for the industrial units while office units have moved a bit slower. However, one of the office buyers is the building’s architect.
“I think that shows the high level of support and confidence there is in what we have designed here,” said Arishenkoff. “The purchasers are eclectic and it’s going to be really cool to have all these different people together. We will see how it plays out as this hasn’t been done before. We are hoping it’s going to be a really successful mix of folks.”
Photos: Renderings show the interior design of Marine Landing
Key Takeaways:
The Bank of Canada raised the rate 50 basis points to 4.25 per cent, the seventh rate hike this year.
The hike was bigger than many experts anticipated.
Their latest data put CPI inflation at 6.9 per cent.
The Whole Story:
The rate hikes keep coming.
The Bank of Canada announced that it has increased its target for the overnight rate to 4.25 per cent, with the Bank Rate at 4.50 per cent and the deposit rate at 4.25 per cent. The bank is also continuing its policy of quantitative tightening. It’s the seventh rate hike this year.
Bank officials explained that inflation around the world remains high and broadly based. Global economic growth is slowing, although it is proving more resilient than was expected at the time of the October Monetary Policy Report (MPR). In the U.S., the economy is weakening but consumption continues to be solid and the labour market remains overheated. The gradual easing of global supply bottlenecks continues, although further progress could be disrupted by geopolitical events.
According to the bank, Canada’s third quarter GDP growth was stronger than expected, and the economy continued to operate in excess demand. Officials explained that Canada’s labour market remains tight, with unemployment near historic lows.
“While commodity exports have been strong, there is growing evidence that tighter monetary policy is restraining domestic demand: consumption moderated in the third quarter, and housing market activity continues to decline,” said the bank in a press release. “Overall, the data since the October MPR support the bank’s outlook that growth will essentially stall through the end of this year and the first half of next year.”
Their data shows that CPI inflation remained at 6.9 per cent in October, with many of the goods and services Canadians regularly buy showing large price increases. Measures of core inflation remain around 5 per cent.
“Three-month rates of change in core inflation have come down, an early indicator that price pressures may be losing momentum,” said the bank. “However, inflation is still too high and short-term inflation expectations remain elevated. The longer that consumers and businesses expect inflation to be above the target, the greater the risk that elevated inflation becomes entrenched.”
Bank officials said they will be considering whether the policy interest rate needs to rise further to bring supply and demand back into balance and return inflation to target.
“We are resolute in our commitment to achieving the 2 per cent inflation target and restoring price stability for Canadians,” officials said.
The hike was higher than expected by some experts, who anticipated a 25 basis points rather than 50. Commercial real estate firm Avison Young did not expected the larger hike due to recent signs that domestic demand, earnings growth and core inflation are starting to ease.
“Third quarter GDP data came in stronger than expected, and the labour market remains tight with the unemployment rate falling marginally last month,” said Nick Axford, Avison Young’s chief economist. “This probably tipped the balance to go for a larger increase in policy rates in what must have been a tight decision.”
Axford explained that the accompanying forward guidance suggests that rates may well now have peaked, however he believes another 25 basis point hike could come in January, depending on what the data show.
“Interest rates should therefore stabilise early in 2023, if they have not done so already – provided that inflation starts to move sustainably downwards from the early part of next year,” said Axford. “Rates may even start to fall later in 2023 – again, very dependent on the data. In the meantime, the latest increase coupled with the quantitative tightening that is also underway represents a significant tightening of financial conditions, which will restrict the flow of credit in the economy.”
He believes this will act as a further constraint on the commercial real estate sector and housing market, impacting both pricing and transaction volumes.
Canada’s unions were not pleased by the hike which they say could lead to the loss of jobs and homes.
“Economists have urged the Bank of Canada to let the impact of previous rate hikes take hold before taking further action that could risk causing a damaging recession. It’s regrettable the Bank of Canada rejected that advice,” said Bea Bruske, president of the Canadian Labour Congress. “Moving ahead on another rate hike today could mean hundreds of thousands of workers losing their jobs and families losing their homes. There is a better way.”
Bruske argued that wage growth is being unfairly blamed for the country’s economic woes and the bank’s attention should be shifted elsewhere.
“Central banks raise rates to cool the economy and lower inflation. But the Bank of Canada has gone further and has waged a public relations campaign warning about the phantom menace of higher wages,” continued Bruske. “There is simply no evidence of this. Real wages are down more than 5 pe rcent over the past two years and continue to lag behind inflation. Meanwhile, corporate profits have ballooned to record levels. It is time for a more balanced policy approach.”
Bruske urged the government to take action against price gouging, including an excess profits tax on corporations.
Key Takeaways:
PCL Solar will be responsible for estimating, design, performance analytics, solar-specific technology, project execution and in-house commissioning.
The operation will be led by Andrew Moles.
The solar team’s new work attainment was $1.1 billion in 2021 alone.
The Whole Story:
PCL Construction’s solar business is rising.
The company announced the formation of PCL Solar, which is based in Toronto with satellite offices in strategic centers across the United States and Australia. They believe it will deliver an even wider array of renewable energy projects as demand increases.
“The demand for high-performing solar facilities will only increase in the coming years as the world transitions away from carbon-producing forms of energy generation,” said Andrew Moles, general manager of solar for PCL Construction. “PCL has risen to the challenge by assembling an outstanding renewable energy team ready to meet the needs of this ever-growing market.”
In five years, PCL’s solar team has completed a number of large projects, including Travers Solar, which will be the largest solar project in Canada, the Gunnedah Solar project in New South Wales, Australia, and U.S. projects in Texas, Oregon, Georgia, Colorado, Tennessee and beyond. The solar team’s new work attainment was $1.1 billion in 2021 alone.
PCL said it anticipates significant opportunities for continued growth in 2023 and beyond.
Andrew Moles will lead the Solar operation as general manager. Andrew began his career at PCL in 2007 and started working on solar projects in 2009. Since then, he has led solar expansion efforts across North America and Australia. He has served as a board member on the Canadian Solar Industries Association and as a board member and Vice-Chair of the Utility-Scale Solar Division of the US Solar Energy Industries Association. He is recognized by the Canadian Construction Association as a Gold Seal Certified Project Manager and is a LEED accredited professional.
The operation will be responsible for estimating, design, performance analytics, solar-specific technology, project execution and in-house commissioning.
Andrew Moles. – PCL
The next generation of Canadian construction leaders building the nation are getting their due with this year’s Top 40 Under 40.
The annual list is a collaboration between On-Site Magazine, a publication that covers Canada’s construction sector and SitePartners, a marketing firm that specializes in industrial clients. The winners were chosen by a panel of judges based on professional achievements, innovation, leadership and community involvement.
Andrew Hansen, CEO and founder of SitePartners, believes that if young people can see other young talent succeeding in construction, they are more likely to consider a construction career.
“When I first envisioned this I saw it as a way to attract people to the industry. The best way to do that is to showcase all the young talent in construction,” said Hansen. “Before the 40 Under 40, there was nothing like it. Three years later we have highlighted the stories of 120 leaders that are shaping our industry.”
Hansen added that he believes this year’s pool of winners is as strong as it has ever been.
“On behalf of myself and the rest of the 40 Under 40 team, congratulations to all the winners past and present,” he said. “It’s been amazing to see the community that this has built and we are looking forward to celebrating even more young industry leaders.”
The list of winners featured female leaders like Mi Kim, a senior commercial manager for Jacob Bros. Construction. In addition to her regular work duties, Kim is helping other women enter the field by mentoring students through the Women in Engineering group at the University of British Columbia.
It also touched on entrepreneurs like Andrew Neill who began his construction career at 17. After rising up the ranks to become a project manager, he started his own company at 31, Andrew Neill Construction. He’s since branched out into modular construction and even has an international patent pending for one of his modular solutions.
The 2022 list didn’t forget innovators like Kevin Goldberg who worked with a fellow engineer to develop a better way to manage the movement of excess material across construction projects. He is now the president of SoilFLO, a software company that is expanding internationally.
But those are just a sample. SiteNews has the full list of winners and their stories.
Key Takeaways:
Aecon-EBC General Partnership was selected for the first phase of a $245 million contract to do seismic upgrades on the dam.
The work involves upgrading earth stabilizing infrastructure.
The team is still waiting on a final project decision from BC Hydro but anticipates work could begin in 2023 and wrap up in 2026.
The Whole Story:
A consortium led by Aecon has won the first phase of a $245 million contract for work on the John Hart Dam.
Aecon-EBC General Partnership (AEGP), a consortium between Aecon (60 per cent) and EBC (40 per cent) in which Aecon is the lead partner, has been awarded the first phase of a two-phase civil construction contract for the John Hart Dam Seismic Upgrade project in Campbell River, B.C.
The scope of work involves upgrading earth stabilizing infrastructure to improve the seismic resiliency of the existing John Hart Dam. Aecon’s share of the contract will be added to its Construction segment backlog in the fourth quarter of 2022.
Aecon stated that an Early Contractor Involvement (ECI) phase will begin this year to collaboratively plan and prepare for construction. The company added that upon successful completion of the ECI phase and following BC Hydro’s final project decision, BC Hydro intends to issue authorization to proceed with construction, which is expected to commence in the third quarter of 2023 with anticipated completion by the end of 2026.
Aecon is no stranger to the site. An Aecon-led joint venture completed the John Hart Generating Station Replacement project in 2019, which included the construction of a new water intake, the replacement of three penstocks with a tunnel, and the construction of a new underground generating station and water bypass facility. The innovative project was the first hydroelectric Public-Private Partnership (P3) in Canada and was recognized with the 2018 Tunnelling Association of Canada Award of Excellence.
“This project will ensure the continued supply of safe, reliable power for surrounding communities and adds another signature project to our diverse backlog in Western Canada – underscoring our preeminent reputation as the preferred contractor for complex civil construction,” said Jean-Louis Servranckx, president and chief executive officer, Aecon Group Inc. “We are proud of the critical role Aecon played in successfully delivering the John Hart Generating Station Replacement project and we look forward to working with our partner while further strengthening our relationship with BC Hydro through this collaborative approach.”
Video: John Hart Generation Station Replacement Project completed
BC Hydro presents their final update on the the John Hart Generation Station Replacement Project, which Aecon worked on.
The Société de transport de Montréal (STM) is launching a call for tenders for the Blue line extension’s largest contract.
It includes the construction of the tunnel and the preparation of the sites of some future stations and auxiliary structures for the Blue line extension project.
STM is the project manager and principal contractor for the extension. This step follows the request for qualification of suppliers issued earlier this year. It is the largest contract to be awarded as part of this major project, which will transform the lives of Montréal’s east end residents.
The winning bidder will be announced in the second half of 2023 and will be responsible for:
The detailed design, supply and operation of the tunnel boring machine.
The construction of the tunnel between Pie-IX and Anjou West using a tunnel boring machine.
The construction of the tunnel between Pie-IX and the tail tracks of the current Blue line using conventional tunnelling methods.
The excavation of Pie-IX (main entrance building only), Viau and Lacordaire stations and some auxiliary structures.
In addition to its efficiency, the tunnel boring machine is powered by electricity, making it an eco-friendly and quiet option, says STM.
“The Blue line extension is a high-priority project for the revitalization of Montreal’s east end and for mobility in the metropolitan area. Geneviève Guilbault, deputy minister and minister of transport and sustainable mobilityThe project is finally taking shape with the construction of a new tunnel that will connect five new stations to the métro network by 2029. The Quebec government is making every effort to deliver this long-awaited project. We can’t stress this enough: given the climate crisis, developing public transit systems is at the forefront of solutions to support sustainable mobility.”
In summer 2022, the STM received authorization from the Quebec government to move forward with the execution phase, making it possible to launch the call for tenders. STM noted that other calls for tenders will follow in the coming months to award the various contracts that will eventually bring the project to life.
The STM said the Blue line extension will be commissioned in the fall of 2029 will allow residents to benefit from a new sustainable mobility option that will provide an attractive and efficient service over single-occupant car use.
A diagram shows how an electric tunnel boring machine will be used for the extension. – STM
It started off as another job for brand strategist James Faulkner, but it soon turned into a project to help transform construction. Before he was the CEO and founder of construction management software company SiteMax, Faulkner was running a successful agency rebranding blue-chip companies across Canada. Everything changed while on a project for a general contractor in the construction sector.
Branching off
“I was contracted to rebrand them and also build a web application for them. It started off with daily reports – laptop to laptop,” said Faulkner. “I suggested we put large TVs around the concourse of their office to show some project consciousness of what’s going on out in the field. And it sort of evolved from there. One of their subtrades walked in, saw the images on the TV screen and said, ‘hey, what is that? I would like that.’”
Faulkner saw the potential in digitally connecting the construction industry and applied his workflow and technology approach. In 2017, seed financing was raised after several years of incubation, and SiteMax was unleashed on the broader construction world.
The company offers a software product designed for the field-to-office communication needs of a commercial general contractor. The essential construction management software solution has generated millions of daily logs, safety reports, photo records, time entries and more worldwide.
But construction isn’t your average industry, and its software can’t just be like any other software. SiteMax knew it had to be built by builders, for builders.
Built for the construction sector
“Knowing how the mind of a construction professional works is essential to any successful software built for the industry,” said Christian Hamm, SiteMax COO. “Use the wrong wording, size text wrong or put buttons in weird spots, you’ll lose their engagement. Builders want to build, not manage software.”
Hamm has construction experience in spades. Before SiteMax, he spent a decade as a construction project manager on commercial, light industrial, hospitality and multi-family residential projects. When he heard about what SiteMax was doing to digitize the construction process, he knew he wanted to be a part of it.
“I started out of high school swinging a hammer doing formwork and framing,” said Hamm. He adds, “My mother had a cut-out from a Vancouver Sun article featuring SiteMax and what they were doing for the construction site. I read through, and it made a ton of sense, and I believed there was a real need for this.”
Christian Hamm, SiteMax COO, brought more than a decade of construction industry experience when he joined the SiteMax team.
Keeping it simple
Simplicity and ease of use for builders have guided the system’s development. Hamm explained that while customers will always want new features – and SiteMax has ensured that the essentials are there – the software’s daily use drives the product.
“Simple is easy to say, but simple is hard,” said Hamm. “The construction industry is full of complex challenges. If anything creates wasted time, including the use of software, people will move on to that which provides a more expedient resolution to the matters at hand.”
Schedule, budget and compliance drive all construction work. Hamm explained that the most significant benefits of digitizing construction documentation and process are found in those key areas. Reducing paper and improving communication can save time, money and the headaches of not having your ducks in a row regarding compliance.
In the case of Fusion Projects, a design-build tenant improvement firm in the Lower Mainland that specializes in creating customized work environments, SiteMax helped boost their health and safety efforts and achieve COR Compliance.
“The greatest success we have achieved to date with SiteMax is our COR certification,” said Fusion. “Being able to develop, implement, manage and track the success of our health and Safety documentation digitally has had a profound impact on our ability to achieve COR certification. Through our use of SiteMax, we have also been able to improve our results year-over-year.”
And they aren’t stopping there. Next, Fusion says it plans to integrate its vendors/subcontractors into its SiteMax platform so they can drive information directly between them and the Fusion team.
The next phase of innovation
While cloud-based construction tech solutions have existed for nearly two decades, SiteMax believes significant greenfield space still exists.
“Anything that will bring further ease to collaboration and communication to achieve desired timelines and project outcomes will have a shot at mass adoption,” said Hamm.
And SiteMax wants to be that solution. They currently work with hundreds of general contracting businesses and their subcontractors, or tens of thousands of construction professionals, daily, providing them with their essential app for daily construction operations.
In their effort to create even more community and connection in the construction sector, SiteMax also launched the Site Visit Podcast, which focuses on construction leaders and their day-to-day experiences in the industry.
Looking ahead, the SiteMax development team is focused on the general contractor and subcontractor relationship.
“Our strategy for the year ahead lies in creating more meaningful ways to streamline interactions between the two, broadening our reach within the industry,” said Hamm. “We believe that workflows, automation and predictability are critical to the success of this interaction moving forward.”
As work to refine SiteMax’s digital tools continues, Faulkner is optimistic about the road ahead.
“In the early days of SiteMax we were pioneers, with many firsts in the digital transformation of construction,” he said. “Today, we have grown significantly and are excited about our next phase of innovation. It is who we are and how we are built.”
To keep up with SiteMax’s journey, follow them here.
A SiteMax truck sits in front of a Calgary sunset.
Key Takeaways:
General Motors of Canada converted its CAMI manufacturing facility in Ontario.
The car company is spending $2 billion converting its CAMI and Oshawa plants.
The plant has begun producing BrightDrop Zevo 600s, a light commercial vehicle that runs on a lithium ion battery.
The Whole Story:
General Motors of Canada is opening its first full-scale electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing plant in Ingersoll, Ont. With support from the province, GM Canada has transformed its CAMI manufacturing plant into an all-EV manufacturing facility, the first of its kind in Canada. Officials say the project could help secure Ontario’s position as a global automotive hub with the vehicles of the future being built by local workers, from start to finish.
“Today’s exciting, made-in-Ontario milestone is more proof that there is no better place to build the cars of the future from start to finish than right here in Ontario,” said Premier Doug Ford. “From the critical minerals in the north to our manufacturing excellence in the south, Ontario has every advantage and will continue to build on our legacy as a global automotive leader for decades to come.”
The CAMI plant will be GM Canada’s designated EV hub for its new all-electric commercial vehicle brand BrightDrop. As part of this month’s grand opening, the first BrightDrop Zevo 600s also rolled off the CAMI EV line.
In April, GM Canada announced an investment of more than $2 billion to transform its CAMI and Oshawa manufacturing plants and improve operations across all of its manufacturing and R&D facilities in Ontario. This investment was supported with $259 million in funding from the province.
“This is truly an exciting day for Ontario as we celebrate the grand opening of GM Canada’s transformed CAMI manufacturing plant and the first all-electric vehicle manufacturing facility in Canada,” said Vic Fedeli, minister of economic development, job Creation and trade. “Watching the first BrightDrop vehicles roll off the assembly line, it is clear that Ontario will build the cars of the future. Our government continues to attract transformative investments by creating the right economic conditions and reducing red tape.”
The construction workforce contracted last month – not the news the industry needs as Labour shortages remain one of its biggest challenges.
According to the latest data from Statistics Canada, the number of people working in construction fell by 25,000 (-1.6 per cent) in November, fully offsetting an increase recorded in October. Most of the declines were in Alberta (-13,000; -5.5 per cent) and B.C. (-9,200; -3.8 per cent).
On a year-over-year basis, employment in construction was up by 84,000 (+5.9 per cent), entirely due to gains from December 2021 to March 2022. According to the latest data from Statistics Canada, investment in building construction declined 0.6 per cent in September, largely the result of a drop in the residential sector.
Overall, employment was little changed (+10,000) in November, and the unemployment rate declined by 0.1 percentage points to 5.1 per cent.
Employment was up among women in the core working ages of 25 to 54, and declined among young men aged 15 to 24. It was little changed among the other main demographic groups. The employment rate among core-aged women reached a new record high of 81.6 per cent in November.
Key Takeaways:
The project is a joint effort between the city of Leduc, Alberta Transportation and the Edmonton Regional Airports Authority.
It involves a new overpass, on-off ramps, roads and more.
Work is expected to begin next winter.
The Whole Story:
Graham will build the 65th Avenue Interchange project in the city of Leduc.
Graham announced this month that it was selected by the city for the project. The QEII and 65th Avenue Interchange project is a joint effort between the city, Alberta Transportation, and the Edmonton Regional Airports Authority. About 49,700 vehicles travel the stretch of the QEII Highway every day.
Officials anticipate the $112 million project will support 660 jobs.
Key components of the project includes: new overpass over the QEII Highway; new on-off ramps from the QEII Highway; improvements to some existing ramps; intersection improvements at 65 Avenue and 50 Street in Leduc; and, completion of Perimeter Road and 65 Avenue, west of the QEII Highway.
“This project is a massive undertaking and we are confident that Graham Construction LP will deliver exceptional results,” said Bob Young, Leduc mayor. “Once complete, the interchange will offer significant positive economic impacts and infrastructure upgrades that will benefit Leduc for years to come as we continue to grow and attract big business to the area.”
Graham noted that its team is highly experienced in delivering projects of this scope and complexity, including the Macleod Trail Interchange in Calgary, and the Groat Road Bridge and Road Renewals in Edmonton.
“We look forward to partnering with the city of Leduc and Alberta Transportation to deliver this critical infrastructure,” says Tom Cole, Graham’s vice president of Infrastructure. “The interchange will support safety and ease of movement of people and goods and Graham is proud to be part of the project that will bring significant and long-standing benefits to the community.”
Construction is anticipated to take approximately three years and will begin in winter 2023.
Work is set to begin on a massive industrial development in the Lower Mainland.
Xchange Business Park on Mt. Lehman Road in Abbotsford has received regulatory approval to begin construction on the first two buildings. The full design of Xchange includes 11 buildings and 1.3 million square feet of purpose-built light industrial space totalling 140 acres. The project is being developed by Hungerford Properties and QuadReal Property Group.
“One of the largest industrial developments in recent years, Xchange will help to meet the demand for industrial space in Abbotsford and add much-needed jobs to the growing community,” said Hungerford. “Forty acres will be dedicated to green space and have an amenity area that recognizes the nearby Matsqui First Nation.”
An industrial project of this size is becoming rarer and rarer in the region. According to a 2022 report by Avison Young, Metro Vancouver’s industrial vacancy rate is the lowest in Canada at 0.4 per cent. They anticipate more than 2.5 million square feet of industrial space will be delivered in the last quarter of the year but 95 per cent of it was already spoken for in the third quarter.
Prior to the approval, Wales McLelland has been providing pre-construction services, including development planning and re-zoning, along with de-risking activities such as critical constructability, budgeting, scheduling and site preparation.
Photos: Pre-construction work
Wales McLellandWales McLellandWales McLelland
Key Takeaways:
The company will access the vehicle’s performance in Squamish, B.C.
It is part of GFL’s goal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in its fleet.
The company has already switched 15 per cent of its fleet over to cleaner fuels.
The Whole Story
GFL Environmental, a North American environmental services company, has introduced its first first fully electric automated side loader (ASL) truck, in B.C.
The vehicle has already been on a long journey. Its chassis was built at Mack Trucks in Pennsylvania; its body was mounted at Labrie Automizer in Quebec; and from there it attended Waste Expo in Las Vegas. Now, the truck has moved to its new permanent home in Squamish.
The company explained that Squamish is a perfect place for GFL to introduce an electric truck. The district of Squamish declared a climate emergency in 2019 and is actively working towards creating a low-carbon future. Decarbonizing transportation is one strategy being adopted to reduce emissions.
“Environmentalism is appreciated in the natural beauty of Squamish and the District of Squamish has been quite vocal on electrical adoption,” said Tyler Stefure, GFL’s fleet director for Western Canada. “They have expressed interest in seeing what a private hauler can do. I think this truck will get a lot of attention for us in Squamish.”
The new truck operates with a near-silent powertrain, providing quiet service to the residents on its route. The truck produces no exhaust emissions and requires no oil changes. It will be charged overnight so it’s ready to tackle its route the next day.
Denise Imbeau, general manager of GFL’s Squamish facility, added that the area is a huge draw for outdoor enthusiasts, including skiers, mountain climbers, mountain bikers and windsurfers.
“Our community is very eco-minded, innovative and forward thinking,” Imbeau said. “Investment in electric technology aligns with the values of this community and demonstrates the commitment GFL has to our community and our planet.”
GFL stated that one of its key sustainability objectives is to continue to reduce GHG emissions from operations and increase the use of alternative and low-carbon fuels in its fleet. The company has already switched 15 per cent its collection fleet over to compressed natural gas (CNG) fuel.
“The electric truck is intended to do everything that its gas and diesel counterparts can do,” Stefure said. “Obviously, battery life is influential so as time goes on, we’ll really put it through its paces and see how it does.”
GFL’s plan is to first learn how to safely operate and care for the truck, then to test it in a variety of situations to figure out what limitations, if any, need to be considered.
“There’s a lot of speculation on what the truck should do. The proof is in what it can do, and that’s why BC is such a great proving ground for us,” Stefure said. “It offers different climates and different terrains, so we can run the truck in Squamish and maybe run it in the Lower Mainland or someplace really cold, just to find out how it performs.”
Going digital is getting easier for the construction sector thanks to an influx of federal funds.
Digital marketing agency SitePartners, which specializes in construction clients, is one of the latest companies to be recognized as a digital advisor by the federal government as part of the Canadian Digital Adoption Program (CDAP).
Andrew Hansen, founder and CEO of SitePartners, explained that the industrial sector is in a period of change and digital must play a role in how companies operate. He added that he believes the CDAP program is a great option for industrial companies wanting to get the process started.
“I know first hand how hard everyone in our industry works. It can be hard to find the time to think on the business rather than in the business,” said Hansen. “The CDAP program is a great resource to help start the digital journey for any industrial company. The $15,000 grant can really help begin the journey of what digital can look like in an industrial business. Our team at SitePartners lives and breathes the industrial sector and can really help be a trusted advisor to drive results.”
CDAP grants cover up to 90 percent of the eligible cost of retaining the services of a digital advisor up to a maximum grant value of $15,000 to develop a digital adoption plan. Eligible businesses must meet the following criteria:
Be incorporated federally or provincially or a be Canadian resident sole proprietor.
Be a for-profit, privately-owned business.
Have between 1- 499 full-time equivalent employees.
Have at least $500K of annual revenues in one of the three previous three tax years.
Part of the application process involves a digital needs assessment which leads to the selection of a digital needs advisor who can do an even deeper evaluation and make recommendations for a digital adoption plan. Once the plan has been completed, the business submits it to the grant program for payment processing.
The CDAP program was launched in March and it will provide $4 billion over four years to help busineses leverage e-commerce opportunities, upgrade or adopt digital technologies, and digitize their operations.
“Small businesses have shown incredible resilience over the last two years as they faced unprecedented challenges from the pandemic,” said Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. “Supporting them has been – and will continue to be – a top priority for our government. That’s why we’re launching the Canada Digital Adoption Program to empower small businesses with the digital tools they need, while helping them create good jobs, particularly for young Canadians.”
Hansen urged any company interested in accessing the program to contact the firm at hello@sitepartners.ca.
More information about the program can be found here. Those interested in applying can get started here.
*Editor’s Note: Andrew Hansen is a co-founder of SiteNews.
Key Takeaways:
The Industry Training Authority is now SkilledTradesBC.
The organization’s new mandate includes a larger focus on raising the profile of skilled trades.
The group will also over see the implementation of skilled trades certification.
The Whole Story:
B.C.’s Industry Training Authority (ITA) has a new name and a new mandate.
On Dec. 1, the organization transitioned to SkilledTradesBC. Officials explained that while its role in advancing B.C.’s skilled trades system hasn’t changed, it has expanded. This includes a larger focus on raising the profile of skilled trades, modernizing its approach to trades training, and implementing skilled trades certification.
“We are excited to have an expanded mandate and a fresh approach. Our new name, SkilledTradesBC will make it easier for everyone to understand who we are and what we do. The core work of our organization has not changed,” said Shelley Gray, SkilledTradesBC CEO. “Supporting our customer’s needs, and developing and funding training programs will remain the same. But moving forward we are also going to be focused on raising the profile of skilled trades careers, modernizing our supports for our customers and implementing skilled trades certification.”
Based on recommendations from a stakeholder advisory working group, there are seven initial trades designated for skilled trades certification and three more will be added in 2024.
The change will formally recognize the skills of trades workers, which the province says will help them receive standardized training, earn higher wages and better navigate evolving industry needs.
“Tradespeople in B.C. need to be recognized for their skills,” said Andrew Mercier, parliamentary secretary for skills training. “Our made-in-B.C. skilled trades certification system increases prestige in the trades, while providing workers with more consistent access to better, safer and higher-paid jobs.”
The first phase of certification will apply to some electrical and mechanical trades. These include electrician, industrial electrician, powerline technician, refrigeration and air conditioning mechanic, gasfitter A and B, steamfitter/pipefitter, and sheet metal worker.
Uncertified trade workers in these trades will be required to register as an apprentice or pass a certification exam before Dec. 1, 2023. Three additional automotive trades will be added to certification in 2024 when phase two begins and will also have one year to transition once announced.
It’s clear that some industry innovation is needed to to hit sustainability goals, overcome labour shortages and address cost challenges. But will that change come rapidly and disrupt the sector? Or will it be a more gradual process?
Darren Sauer, director of development at Wales McLelland, gave his thoughts on the state of industrial and commercial work in Western Canada where Wales works exclusively doing commercial and industrial projects.
He believes innovation is moving at a manageable pace, thanks to the regulatory environment, maturity of the construction sector and the conservative nature of the industry.
“Overall the construction industry is pretty conservative,” said Sauer. “These are huge capital outlays. Like other industries, you’ll get some early adopters for business or marketing reasons. They will be able to absorb the long payback or the upfront capital. We are constantly analyzing things like mass timber, solar panels, electrification and we aren’t seeing any of it on a mass scale yet.”
Sauer said this means there is time for companies to adjust as different technologies and methods are being proven in the field.
He explained that Wales believes builders will see incremental change occurring where use cases are tested on select projects, lessons learned are gleaned, and actual ROI is quantified and understood before wider industry adoption. The following are some technologies and methods that show promise for wider adoption in the future.
Evolution is a four-storey industrial project Wales McLelland completed for PC Urban in Vancouver. – Wales McLelland
Some electrical innovations now standard
Things like LED lighting, integrated lighting controls and occupancy sensors that used to be considered innovative are now becoming ubiquitous thanks to the adoption of American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) standards.
“These things were cutting edge 10 to 15 years ago,” said Sauer. “They were extremely expensive and nobody was doing it in warehouses. But the cost came down significantly and with stricter ASHRAE codes they became spec. All had plenty of time to understand it and make it standard. There isn’t a new building now that isn’t LED.”
However this still isn’t the case for solar panels, which remain expensive. But Sauer said he is seeing some clients anticipating the future of electric vehicles by installing underground conduit for future charge station upgrades.
Mechanical systems get more efficient
Mechanical systems have seen a similar trajectory. As energy bylaws are changing with ASHRAE, manufacturers continue to upgrade and improve the efficiency of mechanical units. As a result, units are much more efficient than they were five years ago. Sauer explained that reducing energy consumption continues to be the main focus of sustainable initiatives in mechanical systems. For example, suppliers are able to provide the same amount of air flow but now with less horsepower on the motor with little added cost.
“In Vancouver in particular, the bylaws are almost mandating you go all electric,” said Sauer. “In multi-storey it certainly makes a lot of sense to use all electric mechanical systems, heat pumps and VFV refrigeration systems. Again, we are seeing that technology potentially being applied to larger scale industrial projects like warehousing and distribution. But there is a huge capital premium up front so you really have to run analysis on the payback to see if that makes sense.”
Reflective roofs bounce heat away
Wales has seen groups installing white high-albedo TPO roofing in lieu of ballasted EPDM at a premium.
“This is important to industrial developers and users,” said Sauer. “White TPO is a $5 to $7 premium over traditional options so if you have it on a 400,000 square-foot warehouse, that’s a huge premium of over $2 million. But it has a lot of benefits.”
He explained that white reflective roofing reduces the heat island effect by reflecting solar energy away from the building. In theory this also reduces the heat gain on the building during the summer months, reducing cooling load and improving occupant comfort. LEED points are also available with high-albedo roofing.
Sauer added that he is also seeing a shift away from the installation of green roofs as they are proving to be a maintenance issue for users and come with a significant premium. For example, Port Coquitlam rescinded their green roof bylaw several years ago in favour of improved stormwater management practices.
Wales employees check a tablet while at a job site. – Wales McLelland
Government tightens stormwater management
Municipalities across the Lower Mainland are mandating stormwater be managed in such a way that limits pre- and post-development flows. Stormwater detention that stores site runoff to a certain design event and releases slowly back into the ground aquifer are now common.
“All the municipalities have mandated pretty high-level requirements which add hundreds of thousands or even millions of dollars to a project,” said Sauer. “This is no longer a new initiative. It’s just being built into the cost and design of projects. It’s something that was considered a premium or an environmental standard that is now just table stakes.”
Concrete innovating to reduce carbon emissions
According to Sauer, many of the more interesting innovations are happening in concrete as efforts to decarbonize the material pick up steam.
Sauer explained that suppliers are looking to reduce their environmental impacts caused by their operations. For example, increasing the amount of Portland limestone cement to concrete mixes reduces the amount of general Portland cement that needs extracting, lowering the overall footprint of the product.
He noted that the global cement producers have either announced net zero commitments or are moving towards making these pledges. Groups with large multi-national client backing have successfully implemented carbon sequestration into concrete through injecting CO2 into the concrete mix at the batch plant.
“The massive, multi-nationals aren’t going to take this transition lying down and they are spending billions to innovate,” said Sauer. “The big suppliers want their own technology and innovation. Each group is pursuing their own better mixes, extraction processes and carbon capture on their plants.”
He believes this could make it difficult for tech companies like CarbonCure to break into established markets like the Lower Mainland.
“Mass timber loves talking about how bad concrete is and how they produce huge amounts of C02 each year,” said Sauer. “But they aren’t sitting idle. They are actively trying to improve their systems and I think that’s a space that’s going to be watched and it will be super interesting.”
Emerging innovations to watch
Sauer offered the following list of project delivery innovations worth keeping an eye on:
New delivery methods borrowed from manufacturing and software such as Lean and Agile
BIM and clash detection software
Virtual Realty
Document manage software
Drone surveying
Artificial Intelligence in Estimating and Project Management (auto quantity takeoffs, machinery and equipment tracking sensors, wearables, etc.)
Cloud based design and project management collaboration tools
Cloud based contract management (reviewing and editing contracts, e-signing, automation of
progress payments)
Sauer noted that this list of material innovations is also worth tracking:
Use of mass timber for the super-structure (medium term time horizon)
Use of modular construction (Wales has seen an increase in this delivery method in residential but with little to no use cases as of yet for industrial work)
Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) of buildings to understand the asset holistically
Smart Buildings (increased use of data sensors, BAS, internet of things applied to buildings)
EllisDon Community Builders (EDCB) is partnering with local Habitat for Humanity organizations to accelerate homeownership projects.
“There are several obstacles to homeownership in Canada today, including financial impacts from the pandemic and inflation,” said Nicholas Gefucia, vice president EllisDon Community Builders. “Because EllisDon and Habitat for Humanity Canada work on a national scale, we are collaborating to streamline the development process, so more individuals and families will be able to buy a Habitat home of their own.”
Under the partnership, EllisDon will provide advisory services over the next four years. The services will help local Habitat organizations evaluate how to best build for the most impact on specific pieces of land, with key information and advice on planning restrictions, permitted density, and potentially available financing.
EDCB, a division formed within the EllisDon group of companies, provides development management services for clients who wish to deliver affordable and supportive housing to their communities. According to the EDCB website, by combining decades of construction industry experience and development expertise, they provide a holistic and comprehensive approach to delivering high-quality affordable and sustainable community developments across Canada.
Key Takeaways:
The funds will go towards small and medium businesses who want to hire first-year apprentices.
Extra support will be given for equity deserving groups.
The funding will target construction and manufacturing Red Seal trades.
The Whole Story:
The United Brotherhood of Carpenters Canadian District (UBC) has received $37 million in funding to support employers hiring first-year apprentices.
This program will assist small and medium enterprises (SMEs) with hiring new, first-year apprentices in the skilled trades and provide extra support for employers to assist apprentices from equity deserving groups.
“As the demand for skilled trade workers outpace the need in our country, it’s critical that we do everything we can to recruit and retain the next generation,” said Jason Rowe. “The UBC is working hard to eliminate barriers and provide an equitable, diverse, and inclusive workplace for all Canadians. This program supports small businesses by equipping them with the necessary tools and resources to help apprentices succeed.”
UBC explained that the funding is critical as many SMEs do not have the resources to offer apprenticeship training opportunities. The two-year, $37-million program funded by the government of Canada’s Apprenticeship Service to provide support to SMEs in Canadian construction and manufacturing Red Seal trades to help them to hire new, first-year apprentices.
The funding enables SMEs to hire up to two new first-year apprentices per year. Under the program, SMEs can receive up to $5,000 for every new first year apprentice they hire and an additional $5,000 if that apprentice identifies as a person from an equity deserving group such as women, Indigenous people, newcomers, persons with disabilities, including LGBTQ2 and Black communities.
In addition to financial supports, the program provides assistance to help employers navigate the apprenticeship system, onboard new apprentices and set up the appropriate workplace training via a digital toolkit that can be found on their website at ubc-asp.ca.
The UBC Canadian District Apprenticeship Service program partners with the Ending Violence Association of BC (EVA BC) to offer Be More Than a Bystander training to SMEs that sign up for the program. The Ending Violence Association of BC (EVA BC) is a provincial association based in Vancouver. They train and support close to 300 anti-violence programs and cross-sector initiatives across the province.
Construction is hard work and years of physical labour can take their toll on the body.
One of the most common complaints is lower back pain. Experts like Jack Liney, a physiotherapist at Westcoast SCI Physiotherapy in Vancouver, believe that workers can do a lot to address this kind of pain when it arises and prevent it from happening in the future.
Liney honed his skills working across a whole spectrum of hospital and rehabilitation settings, while also as a pitch side Physiotherapist in semi-professional rugby. Jack has worked with a wide variety of clients, including professional and olympic athletes, and construction workers.
Back pain causes and risk factors
“Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are a major cause of work-related disability and lost-time illnesses in the construction industry,” said Liney. “Lower back pain is the most common reason for a construction worker to seek professional input from a physiotherapist. It’s also the number one cause of pain globally and number one cause of disability, affecting 80-90 percent of the world’s population.”
Despite being such a common problem the causes of lower back pain can be hard to determine. Liney explained that this is because the vast majority of time, lower back pain is what we class as non-specific, meaning there is not a single specific structure that we can reliably say for sure is what is causing the pain.
“When it comes to lower back pain, of course the biomechanical and physical factors are important to consider: limb shapes, intensity of the task, a person’s age and experience. However, because of the complexity of pain, this is only one piece of the puzzle,” said Liney. “There are so many other factors to consider other than biomechanical and physical factors, things like: the individual, psychology, tissue pathology, behavioural lifestyles, contextual factors, social and work environment factors. All of these things can increase or decrease someone’s chances of having lower back pain.”
According to Liney, despite the complexity around the causes and risks for back pain, work can often be done to address it.
He explained that lower back pain can be reduced through a gradual exposure to the imposed demands of the job, things like bending forwards and lifting heavy items.
“Injuries occur when the demand placed upon the tissues exceeds its current capacity,” said Liney. “Task specific strength and conditioning, lifestyle modifications and behavioural changes can increase one’s capacity and tolerance and this can reduce the risk of developing lower back pain.”
Back pain misconceptions
Not all back pain advice is created equal. Liney noted that modern research has shown that some common advice may not be that useful. Here are some misconceptions Liney says many have about lower back pain:
Back pain is not caused by poor posture.
There is no evidence that lifting with spinal flexion is associated with more risk of injury or pain.
There is no evidence that certain postures are causative of lower back pain, back pain affects all postures.
Pain with movement and exercise doesn’t mean you’re doing harm.
Pain flare ups don’t mean you’re damaging yourself.
Liney offered this advice for someone suffering from lower back pain:
Have the injury assessed by a professional. A physiotherapy needs to screen for serious circumstances that may require urgent medical intervention or referral to specialist.
Find a physio that you connect with and that you can trust to make these important calls.
Once cleared to start rehabilitation, begin with body weight functional movements, mobility and core exercises before trying resistance based exercises
Find an employer that values good working conditions, with decent pay and regular breaks.
Back stretch routine for construction workers
When it comes to doing regular movement and exercise to prevent lower back pain, Liney said it’s often a no one size fits all approach.
“Human movement is individual based on lots of factors: age, experience, limb morphology, we are all shaped differently and this will affect the way we move,” he said. “For me personally, I like to focus on joint mobility exercises. I like them because they are low intensity and can be done regularly throughout the day. This helps me to avoid sedentary behaviour, a factor that can reduce physical capacity.”
Liney said he thinks of the spine as a multidirectional bike chain, and he offered this set of stretches to cover all directions that the lumbar joints are designed to move in:
Lumbar rotation
Lie on your back. Bend your legs, keeping your knees and feet together. Keep your knees together while allowing your top foot to peel off of the floor as you roll your knees from side to side. Keep your shoulder stable on the floor and rotate at your spine.
Active repeated cobra
Lie on your stomach. Place your hands underneath your shoulders. Maintain your elbows near to your rib cage and keep your shoulders down throughout the movement. Rest the top of your feet down into the floor and relax your legs. Press through your hands and lift your head and upper body, opening your chest and allowing your spine to arch into the Cobra position. Breathe in while arching your spine and breathe out while returning in starting position.
Child’s pose
While on your hands and knees: Move backward, bringing your buttocks towards your heels, lower your forearms to the floor and let your back round. Hold the position for a moment while breathing smoothly. Return to the starting position.
Pelvic tilts
Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Pull your belly-button towards your spine and clench your buttock muscles to roll the tail bone up off the floor. Slowly return to the starting position. Roll your tailbone on the ground until the tip of your tail bone touches the mat. The majority of the effort should come from your abdominal and buttock muscles. Relax and repeat.
Knee hugs
Lie on your back. Draw one foot up and then the other. Bring one knee in towards your chest and then the other, using your hands for assistance to curl yourself in to a ball.
*Editors note: Does your business or employer have a unique way they are addressing workplace injury prevention? Let us know at hello@readsitenews.com.
Calgary celebrated the best of the city’s built environment with the ninth edition of the Mayor’s Urban Design Awards (MUDA).
“Thank you to all the participants of MUDA for striving to make Calgary a more beautiful, accessible and welcoming city through design,” said Mayor Jyoti Gondek. “The success you’ve achieved here in this wonderful diverse city we call home is from your bright minds and compassionate hearts. Thank you for keeping the world’s eyes on Calgary.”
This year’s awards saw a record 87 applicants compete in the 11 MUDA award categories. Officials noted that creating high quality public spaces that are inclusive and accessible was a common theme for this year’s winners and honourable mentions.
“It is an incredible time to make a life in Calgary and this event demonstrates real change that is happening right now in our city,” said Stuart Dalgleish, general manager of Calgary’s planning and development services. “Together, we are creating better spaces and places that are more accessible, equitable and environmentally sustainable. Your efforts contribute to a beautiful city where people want to live and make a great life.”
