Aging in place
Retiree renovations Pg. 24
Creative Eye Millwork magic Pg. 14
Lightning strikes Ford’s electric F-150 Pg. 22
THE INFORMATION CONTRACTOR
Peter Glaw opens untapped potential with DIY renovators Page 10
WE POWER PROS TO DO MORE
The Information Contractor
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THE HAMMER
Robert Bronk of the Ontario Construction Secretariat joins The Hammer to discuss his organization’s research into the state of the skilled trades supply and what might be done to improve it.
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TALK ABOUT THE OPTIONS
It was a message beautiful in its simplicity and effectiveness.
A placement service for commercial glaziers posted a photo on LinkedIn showing a poster hanging in an American high school. The poster read, “You have choices! You don’t necessarily have to go to college to make a good living...” Below that was a list of common trades jobs – plumber, crane operator, heavy equipment mechanic, carpenter, etc. – with an hourly rate range noted next to each. I don’t need to tell you what the numbers were, but they would be eyepopping to a high school student. Certainly, much more than they could expect to make for at least a decade, or possibly ever, coming out of a university social studies program.
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When I shared that post, I commented that if there were a poster like this hanging in every high school in Canada, I bet we’d see some relief in the supply of skilled trades workers inside of five years. I know there are young people walking the halls of high schools across the country dreading the prospect of another three or four years after graduation with their bums in uncomfortable lecture hall chairs and their noses in books. But a lot of them probably don’t think they have any other option. Why? Because they’ve been told by their parents and teachers and popular culture that without a university degree their prospects will be dim. In fact, I suspect that’s part of the reason why posters like that one are not already present in high schools. There would be a least a few parents who would object on the grounds that the poster was discouraging university enrollment.
Malarkey. In my experience, there are people who are suited for university and people who are suited for the trades or business or other things. It’s a matter of aptitude, personality and affinity, not intelligence. We’ve spent too long as a society trying to fit the square pegs who like to work outdoors or with their hands into the round holes of universities. The result has been a glut of young people unsatisfied with their prospects and saddled with student debt while lucrative positions in the trades go unfilled.
Don’t get me wrong, this is no indictment of university. I was definitely one of those in the “suited for it” category and there are experiences and growth opportunities there you can’t find anywhere else. As there are in trade schools.
Another sad result of this cultural attachment to university has been the decline or outright abandonment of high school shop classes. They were victims of the small-government-low-taxes craze of the ‘90s that also claimed “luxuries” like music programs and, in some cases, textbooks. The acknowledgement that there might be more than one way to make your way in life, or that a rounded perspective and learning style might be valuable, was lost. I’ve been pleased to see some of those options come back in some schools in my area. The trend needs to continue. And outside each shop class should hang a poster that tells young people they have other options and lays out just how attractive those options can be. cc
”There are people who are suited for university and people who are suited for the trades or business or other things. It’s a matter of aptitude, personality and affinity, not intelligence.
By Patrick Flannery Editor ”
Ontario connecting newcomers with opportunities in the skilled trades
The Ontario government is investing over $900,000 to connect 900 new immigrants across the province with well-paying jobs as carpenters, electricians, plumbers, mechanics, welders, chefs and other in-demand trades. Through the free, virtual workshops, newcomers will receive the training and job connections needed to enter rewarding careers.
“Across the province, we continue to hear from businesses in the skilled trades who can’t find the workers they need to grow,” said Monte McNaughton, Ontario Minister of Labour, Training and Skills Development. “These are bigger paycheques waiting for hardworking people to collect them. This program will connect newcomers with the training and support they need to fill these good local jobs and build better communities.”
Organized by the YMCA/YWCA, tailored workshops are being provided to newcomers in Ottawa, Toronto, and other Ontario cities. Sessions will continue until the end of February, 2022, and participants can access their online workshop on any electronic device. Through the workshops, newcomers will learn how to find an apprenticeship, what employers look for when hiring and how to get a Trades Equivalency Assessment.
In addition, with the support of the Ontario government, outreach workers are being hired by the YMCA/YWCA to promote connections between newcomers, employers and local employment service centres. These additional resources will allow them to better connect local job seekers to in-demand careers in the skilled trades.
“We are thrilled to be leading the
Paint suppliers reveal colour trends
Sherwin–Williams has introduced its 2022 Colour of the Year, Evergreen Fog SW 9130, called a nourishing and sophisticated gray-green. After years of cool neutrals and bold jewel tones, Sherwin-Williams says Evergreen Fog ushers in a new era of nostalgic mid–tones.
“Evergreen Fog is a sophisticated wash of colour for spaces that crave a subtle yet stunning statement shade,” said Sue Wadden, director of colour marketing at Sherwin–Williams. “Evergreen Fog inspires us to begin again and is a great choice for modern interiors and exteriors.”
Evergreen Fog is described as a soothing, subtle shade that is easy to use in every part of the home, indoors or out.
“The familiar, comfortable nature of Evergreen Fog shines as a reassuring backdrop and freshens up any space,” Wadden said. “Create depth and texture with a mix of natural–looking textiles. Add a little gleam with a fusion of metals — champagne gold, warm brass, or inky black.”
The soothing hue is part of the Method palette in the Sherwin–Williams 2022 Colormix Forecast, which embraces creativity, intention and discovery. Wadden recommends pairing the hue with organic neutrals such as Shoji White SW 7042, Accessible Beige SW 7036 and Woven Wicker SW 9104, and tonal luxurious hues such as Urbane Bronze SW 7048, Uber Umber SW 9107 and Bakelite Gold SW 6368.
This unique and versatile colour suits a variety of spaces,
Ontario Newcomer Trades Action Project in partnership with the Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development,” said Bob Gallagher, president and CEO of the YMCA/ YWCA in the National Capital Region. “By scaling this project to five Y’s across the province, and targeting three main stakeholder groups –employers in the sector; service providers; and newcomers – we will improve access to apprenticeship training and employment across Ontario.”
This funding is part of Ontario’s over $200 million investment in the Skills Development Fund, an initiative to address challenges employers face in hiring, training and retraining workers and apprentices during the COVID-19 pandemic. cc
substrates and design styles, including art deco, modern organic and postmodernism.
“Evergreen Fog brings a regenerative touch to any environment, whether hotel room, restaurant or office,” said Wadden.
The calming and composed colour lends itself to multiuse areas to promote the versatility of the space, lounges and other areas used for rest and relaxation and entry areas and lobbies as a comforting welcome. cc
Canadian employers project 2.7 percent base salary increase in 2022: LifeWorks
LifeWorks has released its 39th annual salary projection survey, revealing that Canadian organizations are displaying a newfound sense of certainty as projected base salary increases surge past pre-pandemic levels. Employers are projecting an annual base salary increase average of 2.7 percent in 2022, which excludes organizations that are planning salary freezes.
The actual base salary increase (excluding freezes) for 2021 was 2.6 percent. Actual base salary increases have remained consistent at 2.6 percent every year since 2018. The highest projected average salary increases for 2022 are expected to be in wholesale trade (3.1 percent), construction (three percent), accommodation and food services (three percent) and information technology (three percent). In contrast, health care and social assistance (two percent), educational services (two percent) and information and cultural industries (1.9 percent) are projecting the lowest salary increases. In 2020, 13 percent of organizations forecasted that they would freeze salaries in 2021. In actuality, 12 percent of Canadian organizations froze salaries in 2021. This is an improvement year-over-year, as 36 percent of organizations froze salaries in 2020. Looking ahead, only 3.3 percent of organizations are planning salary freezes for 2022, while 18.3 percent remain undecided – a significant improvement from last year, when 46 percent of Canadian employers expressed uncertainty.
“A tight labour market has caused ‘the great resignation,’” commented LifeWorks partner and national practice leader, Anand Parsan, “which is forcing organizations to adjust pay levels by the highest percentage in the last five years. Only 3.3 percent of organizations are projecting salary freezes next year, which indicates that
employers are recognizing the necessity of boosting pay and re-branding their total rewards value proposition in an effort to attract and retain key talent. With a booming job market and rising inflation, employees are seeking both higher compensation and purposeful work. Our survey results reveal an increased prioritization of HR initiatives towards creating integrated solutions for an engaged, diverse and remote workforce.”
In July, the Bank of Canada noted that consumer price index inflation is expected to remain elevated in Canada throughout 2021 due to pandemic-related factors, following a CPI above three percent from April to July. The rising inflation rate remains a concern for Canadian employees, with the projected salary increase for 2022 lower than the inflation benchmark. The Bank of Canada, however, has signalled a recovery in 2022, anticipating the inflation rate to ease to the two percent mark.
“Expected salary increases and declining freezes is a positive news story and one that Canadian employees should feel confident in as we look to the new year,” said Guylaine Beliveau, LifeWorks principal for compensation consulting practice. “We cannot, however, lose sight of the impending impact of the rising inflation rate. Employee turnover needs to be a top consideration for employers, as employees may feel stretched financially. Meanwhile, employers are struggling with a shortage of qualified employees. Attraction and retention are more challenging than ever. These issues put pressure on the employer’s capacity to pay. It is a great opportunity for employers to review their offerings to ensure they are providing competitive compensation, total rewards programs and wellbeing support.” cc
WSIB to reduce average premium rate in 2022
Ontario’s Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) announced during its annual general meeting, that the average premium rate for Ontario businesses will be reduced by 5.1 percent for 2022, from $1.37 to $1.30. The announcement comes after the WSIB held 2021 premium rates at the same level as the previous year, in an effort to support businesses through the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Our strong financial performance allows us to ease the pressure on Ontario businesses during these difficult times while continuing to help people recover and return to work,” said Elizabeth Witmer, chairperson.
“This is the fifth time in the last six years we have been able to reduce the average premium rate, confirming Ontario as a jurisdiction with among the most generous benefits in North America at a competitive cost.”
Additional enhancements to the WSIB’s online services were also announced at the AGM. Starting in 2022, businesses will be able to log in to view detailed claim information in real time, a service that was first started for people with claims in 2020.
“We are transforming the way we do business so that doing business with us is easier,” said Tom Bell, president and CEO. “Enhancements to our online
services continue to make it simpler for people to file or track a claim, for businesses to manage their accounts, or for healthcare providers to register, bill and get paid – freeing up their time and ours to focus on service.”
Ontario businesses received their 2022 premium rate statements this fall. The statements showed the future direction of their premium rates as the WSIB continues the transition to a new rate-setting model that more closely ties premium rates to individual health and safety records. cc
THE
INFORMATION CONTRACTOR
Premier Renovations offers homeowners the unique opportunity to become their own contractor.
By Alex Mackenzie
Peter Glaw has taken Premier Quality Renovations from a two-man team, started by his father and uncle, to a multifaceted, all-inclusive renovation and information powerhouse. While Premier’s traditional renovations teams still function in much the same capacity as many other
contractor teams, the company adds a wrinkle to its offering with consultations and its become-your-own-generalcontractor system of education, networking and material access.
Like many leaders in the industry, Glaw has been
immersed in the world of contracting since childhood. “I grew up in that industry, so summer vacations were spent helping my dad at the job sites. At the age of 14 I was already team-leading jobs and reading blueprints. So, I helped him throughout and then we kept on going and some 25, 30 years ago we started getting into renovations.” His lifetime of experience has been instrumental in building both the traditional side of Premier Quality Renovations, with three full-time teams specializing in residential renovations, and Glaw’s innovative education-based system that helps do-it-yourselfers do it like the pros.
DIY general contractor
While contractor and construction consultations are common for residential builds and renovations, Premier offers a unique system of education and resource access that allows customers to act as their own general contractor, saving money and offering a level of control and design influence that are non-negotiables for the do-it-yourself crowd. As Glaw explains, “The definition of a general contractor is strictly the organizer of the job, or the organizer of trades and materials. A general contractor does not have to know how to swing a hammer or cut a saw or mitre a crown molding, and most of them don’t. It’s like a project manager – they just know how to manage a project.” While the thought of completing a home renovation with one’s own skills and knowledge is likely daunting at best to most homeowners, Premier’s system teaches its clients how to manage the renovation project from start to finish with the assistance of Premier Renovation consultants and skilled trade professionals.
Glaw provides many of the consultations personally and not only makes himself available to his clients 24/7 but also checks in with them at specific points on the renovation timeline to ensure that they stay on track with ordering materials and scheduling individual contractors and tradesmen. “Eventually you are going to be good enough to general contract your job by yourself. Initially you’re going
to need us to hold your hand.” But Glaw is fully confident that his system works and, as far as he’s concerned, “It doesn’t matter if it’s big or small, you can do it, because all you’re really doing is learning from us. You have to learn no matter what it is in life and that’s really what our system is all about.” Glaw’s success with and dedication to the
21_2068_Canadian_Contractor_NOV_DEC_CN Mod: October 1, 2021 11:50 AM Print: 10/18/21 1:26:28 PM page 1 v7
The Premier Renovations consultation system allows do-it-yourselfers to execute renovations at a professional level of quality with personalized guidance from start to finish.
educational side of the business lead him to write a book, How to be Your Own General Contractor: It’s as easy as 1-2-3, which guides readers through the process and acts as the first step in Premier’s educational system.
With the assistance of Premier’s become-your-owncontractor system, clients are able to oversee the completion of projects ranging from a simple surface renovation of new paint and floors, all the way up to full-scale, start-to-finish renovations requiring a multitude of individual contractors, and even new construction projects. While the promise of greater input and control is enough for some, the true value of the system comes through Premier’s access card program, which Glaw describes as giving “access to all of our trades that we are using, all of our suppliers, and there’s hundreds of them. It ranges from window companies to roofing companies to appliances, carpets, railing, fencing, two-by -fours –anything that’s required to build residential and commercial buildings.” This access translates to significant savings on materials by unlocking industry-direct rates that are usually out of reach to the average homeowner.
Premier certified contractors
We want to make sure that if you’re with us that you are a reputable, solid contractor.” This added level of verification puts the contractors on the list at an advantage as clients will know that, by virtue of inclusion, the companies listed are trustworthy and will be a safer choice than bids from elsewhere.
One thing that Glaw stresses above all else is that this
system is designed to help contractors and tradesmen as well as homeowning clients bent on being a part of the renovation process. Premier works with a vetted group of contractors to provide the skilled work that is organized by the client learning to be their own general contractor, and being a part of that group can bolster work for small contractors and trades teams that don’t have the time, money and manpower to operate their own marketing strategies beyond the basics of small business. Upon becoming a Premier certified contractor, a company is listed in the Premier database of certified contractors, which offers a wider range of business opportunities as it opens members up to clients that normally would seek to do much of the work themselves. But getting on the list is not as simple as paying a fee and submitting your rates. As Glaw explains, “If you’re a Premier Certified Contractor then you have to meet certain criteria: you have to be fully licensed, you have to have WSIB insurance, work experience and reference letters, financials and so on. We want to make sure that if you’re with us that you are a reputable, solid contractor.” This added level of verification puts the contractors on the list at an advantage as clients will know that, by virtue of inclusion, the companies listed are trustworthy and will be a safer choice than bids from elsewhere.
Glaw provides many of the consultations personally and makes himself available to his clients 24/7.
Another advantage for business and tradesmen that become members of Premier’s list of certified contractors is the added benefit of being available for consultations. As many in the industry know, injury, illness and age can leave any successful tradesman in the lurch. Premier’s system allows contractors to operate in much the same capacity as Glaw himself, offering in-person and online consultations and the opportunity to earn through selling the Premier access card and Glaw’s book. These consultations allow contractors and tradesmen that are no longer able to perform the physically laborious tasks of the trade with a stream of income that relies on their expertise and knowledge of the industry, extending their earning potential well beyond the average career lifespan for those in the industry.
As with everything Premier does, education and information play heavily into the Premier certified contractors program as well. Premier certified contractors gain access to a wealth of educational programs, such as “ongoing Zoom webinars with guest speakers like lawyers so you get legal advice, architects and engineers and city planners and so on, because it’s always a moving target in the industry with new building codes.” This educational
aspect helps contractors rise to and stay at the top of their game. cc
More information on the Premier certified contractor program, the Premier access card program, and how to order the book, How to be Your Own General Contractor: It’s as easy as 1-2-3, is available on Premier’s website premier-renovations.com.
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Premier has three renovation teams for the let-someone-else-do-it crowd.
MILLWORK MAGIC
Twin Lions Contracting founders are creating multi-award-winning projects with their own innovative millwork company.
By Gordon Wornoff
If you are in North Vancouver and you see someone struggling under a heap of 2021 building awards, please help the man out. It’s likely Kevin Hatch, co-founder of Twin Lions Contracting, whose company recently earned eight building awards at national, provincial and municipal levels.
Twin Lions’ rift-sawn white oak kitchen won them a prize from the Canadian Homebuilders Association, a Georgie Award from the CHBA BC, and a HAVAN award in metropolitan Vancouver. In all three awards, the kitchen fell into the $75,000 to $100,000 category. They picked up a CHBA “National Award for Renovation Excellence,” and a Grand Georgie Award for “Customer Satisfaction – Renovation.” The North Vancouver Chamber of Commerce recently awarded them a Community Leadership Award, and they have been voted the “Favourite Renovator” in their local paper, The North Shore News, for the last five years running.
In a year that has been tough on so many renovators, it was a pleasure to talk with Kevin and hear about a company
that is taking care of its community when times are slow, doing quality work, earning recognition and prevailing in sophisticated millwork technology.
Gordon Wornoff [GW]: Please tell us about Twin Lions’ project, Cortez, whose kitchen was celebrated across the country in a rare triple triumph.
Kevin Hatch [KH]: That project came across the desk and it was a family with two young kids. They wanted a good-sized home in the upper north end/Montroyal area. They found this house – great lot, great street, on a little cul-de-sac. It was very ‘80s, so it definitely needed a facelift. We went in there and blew out the guts of the main floor, closed in an exterior patio to increase the footprint and gave them a more functional space. We completely reconfigured the master bedroom, bathroom and closet area to make it much more desirable. The main shell and architectural massing were in pretty good shape to begin with. We incorporated some
Although Hardy tried his hand at a couple of other things, his true passion had always been the construction industry.
existing well-placed skylights into the final design. The clients had some great taste. We worked with a designer that had an expert eye and it turned into a solid showpiece.
The ground was full of water, though. When we enclosed the 10-by-10 outdoor patio which was right next to the kitchen, there was a river running underground. We had to dig down 12 feet where we thought we’d just have to go below the frost line. It ended up being a drastic excavation in a small space and we added a ton of crushed stone, a ton of concrete and a ton of drainage solutions. We had to move a lot of water away from the foundation of this house.
GW: Please tell us about this award-winning kitchen.
KH: The kitchen was a main priority for the clients. They loved having people over and entertaining. The extensions
of the kitchen really worked for them. Imagine an L. The kitchen was the corner of the L and expanding out in one direction was the family room and fireplace, and the other end of the L was dining room and living room. It all connected really well, with white oak flooring everywhere. And we installed a massive sliding door so they can host indoor and outdoor gatherings.
We did rift-cut white oak cabinetry and cabinetry accents. Our other company, Millwerks, did the kitchen and bathrooms and all the feature pieces on this. That black fireplace is all rift-cut white oak, stained black. That might be my favourite fireplace we’ve ever done. We also did a big integrated table built into the island to extend the eating area with some cool metal brackets to give more functionality.
Every project has a budget, and because of the challenges with the water on this, we had to look for creative ways to save. Those black lights above the peninsula – they look expensive, but they were not.
It’s a sleek-looking kitchen, that’s very on-point with what’s considered “in” in the design community right now. It
looks like a very luxurious kitchen, but it was very simple – slab doors and minimal accessories. It’s not all smoke and mirrors – it’s a high-end looking kitchen that was done for a reasonable price.
GW: You and your business partner, Ben, operate a custom millwork business, Millwerks, that uses unique technology. How does it work?
KH: We take a 3D, photorealistic image of the space. The images mesh up with our CNC machines and design programming. So, it is next-level millwork that has been really enjoyable and fun to do.
Back in the day, we would take the tape measure around, measure the walls and get 30, 40 or 50 points of measurement through your whole house for a project. Now we get like 30, 40 or 50 million and we get intricate shop drawings and see if there’s a bow in the wall, or an irregularity you wouldn’t pick up just by measuring it. It helps us capture problems early on and fix them in the shop rather than muck around on site. It really speeds up installation and fabrication.
GW: You are a Red Seal carpenter by trade. How did you decide to take the technological plunge?
KH: I’ve always been one to look for innovations and efficiencies on the business-development side of things. This technology is used in a lot of different sectors, but not many people are using it in millwork like this. I didn’t originally start down this path with this much technology, but I have always wanted to push the envelope. We did things differently at Twin Lions, and I wanted to bring that same energy to Millwerks when we started it a few years ago.
We have someone who works for us, Ainsley Jackson, who is the mad scientist behind it. He’s a very experienced tinkerer and has made it work. Getting the technology to all work together seamlessly was difficult at the beginning, but now it’s working really well.
GW: Is this profitable? Has all the technology paid for itself?
KH: It was an expensive startup, but it allows us to be quite efficient, which translates into a better bottom line. For example, you can be pretty smart with your waste. We program the software to be very economical and make use of every square inch of a sheet of plywood.
It also sets us up to provide an extremely high-end product and still be competitive with where we want to be price-wise for the “everyperson.” Our clientele is not looking
to
GW: Does Millwerks do all the millwork for Twin Lions?
KH: For a while, yes, but Millwerks has grown exponentially faster than I originally anticipated. I had the same mentality when I was growing Twin Lions – quality and customer service cannot be sacrificed, especially while the company is in its infancy. It’s gotten to the point where we’ve been unable to take on all of Twin Lions’ jobs.
GW: How have your companies fared during the pandemic?
KH: When COVID-19 first hit, none of our clients cancelled, but everybody put things on pause. We have around 30 people working for Twin Lions and 11 or 12 with Millwerks, so we had to figure something out. Ben and I were adamant: “Nobody is leaving. We’re not letting anybody go. We’re paying everyone in full, that’s it.”
We had about seven guys we just didn’t have any work for, but we didn’t want to lose them. We threw it out to the community: “Hey, who needs help right now?” We had lot of people come back to us.
We put in two kitchens at the Disability Resource Centre and we did some work for a local rugby club, and the Parkgate Community Centre. We did a bunch of maintenance work for the North Shore Women’s Centre –kitchens, flooring, lighting. It was good to give everyone a sense of purpose and do something positive when everything was so negative.
Giving back to the community has always been a cornerstone of our business. We’ve sponsored local sports teams, but we want to do more now. We are planning to start a community bursary or scholarship fund to support kids going through trades programs in high schools. We also want to continue the community infrastructure programs and allocate some manpower and resources to the community. Maybe we’ll take applications to see who we can help on a more regular basis. Ben and I are both born and raised on the north shore, 80 percent of our staff comes from here, and we want
to be a business that looks after our community.
I wish businesses shared this thought process that it’s not just your business you are working towards, you should be working towards the betterment of all. We should be taking on that social responsibility as community leaders. It makes things so much easier for so many people. We have the ability and the wherewithal
to do it, so we always try to push ourselves.
We could immediately solve the entire skilled labour shortage in the trades if we boost women in the trades from four percent to 10 percent. It’s something we can achieve, but at this point, 90 percent leave after one year in the trades. We need to change that. cc
DESIGNED TO IMPRESS
Five reasons builders should include an interior designer on their teams.
By Amparo Findlay
Your client’s home is likely the biggest investment they’ll ever make, so it’s understandable that they hold you to a high standard. You can make sure you meet client expectations by bringing a qualified interior designer onto your team. A designer elevates your service package, your design process and ultimately your business. They can help ensure your renovation work is stylish and personal while saving you time and money during the build process. Here’s how:
1. When clients undertake renovations in their home, they want meaningful and harmonious interiors which add value to their home and increase their enjoyment and comfort for years to come. Having a trained interior designer on the team allows you to approach each project with the unique perspective of a designer around functionality and aesthetics that are best suited to your client’s style, taste and needs. They will prepare a fresh assessment which matches their artistic expertise to the client’s requirements and preferences, often adding splashes of flair and suggesting possibilities you would never have imagined.
2. A designer will help you deal with clients. Interior designers are expert communicators who can translate client needs into plain language, which can help you stay on schedule by avoiding misunderstandings and ensures the vision is executed accurately and within budget. Part of a designer’s role is to help guide clients through the vast multitude of decisions that need to be made before the project even gets under way. All this makes your sales process easier, and saves you time as well as money.
3. Having a competent designer on your team means less stress. Their existing relationships with both clients and suppliers and their industry
expertise will allow you to delegate decisions and troubleshooting on materials, contactors and more. You can use that time to manage your trades, budgets and sales funnel, increasing your business’s productivity.
4. Designers know what’s worth spending money on and what isn’t. With a keen sense of imagination and eye for design, they are trained to see the potential in hidden gems. A designer can mix and match expensive pieces with less pricey finds and even upcycled items from the previous home design to achieve your client’s desired look on budget. They also know the marketplace and have access to trade resources and preferred pricing for items outside of the normal scope of the average contractor. There’s no need for endless, time consuming and often unfruitful showroom trips. A designer will oversee the selection, approval and documentation process for your client, so you don’t have to.
5. An interior designer can connect you with other industry professionals and resources. These invaluable resources are a huge benefit to your clients as it increases your range of offerable solutions as well as exanding your own network of resources and professionals. A designer’s preferred craftsman will deliver an elevated sense of flair and luxury that fits the clients style and provides an exact fit for their needs. Combined with your skilled and professional trades, the possibilities to wow your client are unlimited. We all know that fulfilled and happy clients are the best source of referrals, so do your business a favour and speak to an interior designer today.
For more information, or to learn more about how Amparo can help your design process, call or 416.662.7165 or visit her website at www.amparofindlayinteriors.ca
5 Tips on Optimizing Your Growth Plan Post-Pandemic
Asthe year draws to a close, it’s time for you to start thinking about how your business can grow in 2022. If you’re like most contractors, the pandemic has brought your business a lot of unprecedented challenges in the form of changed consumer behaviour as well as supply chain and logistics issues. These challenges can be difficult to overcome without some serious planning and effort on your part. However, there are some things you can do before 2022 to get ahead of your competition and make sure your company is prepared for any challenges that may arise. As such, we’ve put together five tips that will help you enjoy growth post-pandemic in 2022.
Tip #1: Closing a sale through financing
When you need to close a sale, flexibility is key. This is why offering customers an easy to use point of sale financing solution can be just the tool you need. Financing allows your customer to move forward with their home renovation project without having to pay the entire sum upfront, potentially leaving them strapped for cash. Meanwhile, other customers may find point of sale financing is a more cost effective way of funding their renovation instead of using a traditional credit card with higher interest rates or the inconvenience of re-mortgaging their home. For many people during these uncertain times, having a low monthly payment may seem far more palatable than one large lump sum payment up front.
Tip #2: Boosting purchasing power
In addition to helping close a sale, point of sale financing can help a contractor upsell their higherend, higher margin products and
services. A recent study found the average sales transaction size increases 15% for companies that offer consumer financing.1 Thanks to the “good - betterbest” strategy. Contractors should think about good (the option the customer comes in the shop to purchase) better (the option the contractor knows the customer needs) and best (the option the contractor knows is best to sell for their business and the customer). Showing a customer how a small increase to their monthly loan payments can help them afford the additional upgrades they desire may be the ideal tactic for contractors to upsell their services. Whether its high-end kitchen cabinets, a luxury whirlpool bathtub or upgraded fixtures, those upgrades all add up to a healthier bottom line.
Tip #3: Throw in a time-sensitive promotion
Offering time-sensitive promotions, such as deferrals, can entice a customer by offering them a payment holiday on their loan term. Many retail stores offer options like, “buy now, pay later” to give consumers increased confidence in their ability to budget for a product or service. This also attracts financially savvy customers who realize the advantage of such a promotion for their household cash flow. There’s no reason contractors can’t use this same sales tactic to increase their revenue and upsell their products and services using a promotion.
Tip #4: Challenges and rewards for your sales team Few things motivate sales teams like challenges and incentives. Whether it’s through monthly bonuses, year-round contests with a grand prize or a rewards program, keep your salespeople motivated and hungry for the
honour and distinction of being a top earner. Through incentives and challenges you can foster a high performance, high reward culture that ensures your sales team is motivated to sell your highend, higher margin products and services.
Tip #5: Invest in branding your business
Your brand is an important asset to your business, as it can set you apart from the competition. A strong brand is a lasting impression based on your visual identity and customer experience and it is a reflection of your perceived value in the market. Companies with strong brands can charge premium rates and gain market share through word-of-mouth and customer recommendations. You don’t need to be digitally savvy or technical to create professional looking branding items to help your business. There are many websites that help you hire freelancers and digital designers who can create these for you.
Bonus: Find the right partner
To ensure success with applying the previous financing-related tips, it is vital that you work with a financing company that offers simple and easy solutions. Financeit is one of the best reviewed Canadian fintech companies, helping over 3,000 home improvement contractors offer a “buy now, pay later” financing program. Financeit allows you to give your customers flexible payment options with open loans, no hidden fees, and transparent payment terms. A fast and simple solution.
1 Jones, Chase. Ecommerce Financing: How to increase AOV 15% with Consumer Credit Options. Big Commerce. (https:// www.bigcommerce.com/blog/consumercredit-benefits)
Some ways to go about improving your branding are:
1.Modernize your logo
2.Make a simple professional looking website
3.Having physical documents such as business cards, price sheets, brochures, etc.
4.Advertise time-sensitive promotions
VAX ADVICE
The Winnipeg Construction Association has some recommendations on vaccine policies.
By Patrick Flannery
Lawyers Lisa Stiver and Kristin Kersey presented a webinar on behalf of the Winnipeg Construction Association offering valuable advice on how employers in the construction industry should approach the issue of COVID vaccination in their workplace and on jobsites. Here are some highlight points.
Are employers allowed to require employees to be vaccinated?
The short answer to this is, “yes.” Nothing prevents a private company from making vaccination status a condition of employment, and disciplining or even terminating employees who fail to comply. The pitfalls are all in the crafting of the policy and its implementation, but they are not insurmountable. The key is to avoid violating human rights rules regarding disability and religion. An employer has to make sure their vaccine policy does not prevent someone from working because of a medical condition that prevents them from being vaccinated, or a real religious commitment that forbids them from taking vaccines.
Privacy is another concern. Employers can ask for employees to provide proof of their vaccination status without violating any principles of non-consensual sharing of medical information. But the lawyers recommend the minimum amount of information be collected - essentially, the question is, “Are you fully vaccinated according to the public health authorities? Yes, no?” The information should be shared with as few people in the organization as possible, and the policy should clearly lay out what constitutes proof, who needs to provide it, who will have access to it and when it will be discarded. The same goes for test results.
If an employee refuses to be vaccinated, employers should be sure to explore all other options before dismissal, including working from home, modified hours or a different position altogether. Courts will look at whether there were options other than dismissal when deciding constructive dismissal cases.
Can I ask that new hires be vaccinated?
If a company includes in its job posting that only vaccinated people may apply, this could be construed as discrimination against people unable to receive a vaccine under human rights laws. The same could apply if questions about
vaccination status are brought up in a job interview. Instead, the requirement to be vaccinated should appear as a condition of employment at the offer stage and not be mentioned before that unless the candidate asks.
Are employees allowed to refuse to work in workplaces without a vaccine mandate?
The short answer to this one is, “no.” Employers do have a duty to take reasonable measures to provide a safe workplace for employees. Failure to follow government guidelines for masking and social distancing has been considered a dereliction of that duty. But, so far, this duty has not been considered to go so far as to require a fully vaccinated workplace. That means employers can require employees who have been working from home during the pandemic to come back into offices, go to meetings, attend events and work on jobsites even if they will encounter unvaccinated people there.
An exception here is people with pre-existing conditions that make them especially vulnerable to viral infection or more likely to become dangerously ill if they do get COVID. The employer will have a duty to accommodate their condition under most provincial laws protecting the disabled. Employers will have to work out a way for the employee to work without being more exposed to COVID than they would be in their home life.
Procedures, policies and meetings, oh my
One point the presenters returned to frequently was the need for a clear written policy laying out expectations, procedures and penalties, if any. If an employee seeks an exemption from a requirement to get vaccinated on medical or religious grounds, the company should follow a procedure to hear the employee’s case and discuss options even if management feels strongly the exemption will not be allowed. This will be helpful in protecting against any potential human rights complaints. A company seeking to terminate an employee for violating a vaccination requirement should follow all the same steps as in any termination for cause: first and second written warnings with specific instructions and deadlines to comply.
A longer version of this article is available at canadiancontractor.ca.
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LIGHTNING STRIKES
Ford looks to catch lightning in a bottle with the electric F-150.
By Mario Cywinski
Uptake on electric vehicles is growing. However, the slice of the pie for EVs is still very small. Factors such as range, charging infrastructure, and most importantly, type of vehicle have been the main reasons for customer hesitancy. The majority of EVs until recently were hatchback-style vehicles, which many customers enjoy. However, they are not the crossover and SUV-style vehicles that are growing exponentially, or the best-selling segment of the vehicle market, pickup trucks.
Now, it is one thing for Tesla, who has built its entire brand on EVs, to announce the Cybertruck pickup, or for niche EV companies to do the same. It is quite another for the segment leader to announce that it is entering the ring
with an electric-powered pick-up truck.
For many years, the Ford F-Series has been the top selling vehicle in both Canada and the United States. Ford has put many innovations into the F-Series, most recently with a hybrid version of its F-150 (as the PowerBoost), and before that with the introduction of an aluminum body.
Its next innovation is trying to take electric power mainstream by introducing the Ford F-150 Lightning. The fully electric F-150 gives pickup truck customers an option for an EV within the largest segment in the industry.
“For both Ford and the American auto industry, F-150 Lightning represents a defining moment as we
progress toward a zero-emissions, digitally connected future,” said Bill Ford, executive chair at Ford. “F-Series is America’s best-selling truck for 44 years, the backbone of work across the country and a trusted icon for generations of customers. Now we are revolutionizing it for a new generation.” Lightning offers two lithium-ion battery options, a standard range version with an estimated 370 kilometres of range and an extendedrange version with an estimated 483 kilometers of range. Both versions show that “range anxiety” is a thing of the past for EVs. Going further, the standard range model offers 426 horsepower, while extended range model has 563 horsepower on tap.
PHOTOS: FORD
Ford is expanding into the EV market with an electric F-Series model, the Ford F-150 Lightning.
Both offer 775 foot-pounds of torque. The extended-range model has an estimated zero to 60 time in the mid-four seconds range.
Projected charging times with a Level 3 charger (50 or 150 kilowatts) for 15 percent to 85 percent is 91 or 44 minutes for a standard-range, and 122 or 41 minutes for an extended-range. Level 2 charging on standard-range can be 10 to 14 hours and extended-range eight to 19 hours, depending on the charging station being used.
In terms of truck capability, the Lighting will offer an estimated maximum payload of 1,800 (extendedrange) to 2,000 (standard-range) pounds.
Maximum estimated towing ranges (with the maximum trailer tow package) are from 7,700 pounds (standard-range) to 10,000 pounds (extended-range).
Four trim levels will be available for the Lightning – a fleet-focused work truck, Pro trim, along with XLT, Lariat and Platinum. The top range Platinum trim is only available with the extended-range battery, while the Pro trim is only available with the extended-range for fleets. The middle two trims are standard with the standard-range battery, with the option of having the extended-range version.
A new feature on the Lightning, that may be a selling feature for some, is Ford Intelligent Backup Power. What the feature does is basically turn your truck into a backup power source for your home. The system gives the Lightning the ability to offload 9.6 kilowatts of power. When using the truck with an 80-amp Ford Charge Station Pro and a home management system, the system sends power to the house, instead of charging itself. Once power is restored, the truck goes back to charging its battery. Ford says that an extended-range battery model can power a home for up to three days, when using an average of 30 kilowatthours of daily use.
“Whether sheltering during a storm or trying to stay safe in a heat wave, customers can now use their truck to give themselves power when they need it most,” said Ryan O’Gorman,
The F-150 Lightning doubles as a home generator during power outages and automatically switches from charging to providing power and back during blackouts.
The F-150 Lightning features an added trunk space under the hood thanks to the reduction in size of the electric engine compared to the traditional combustion engine.
electric vehicle manager for strategic partnerships. “F-150 Lightning is built for seamless transitions between charging your vehicle and powering your house when needed – and Ford is the first in North America to offer this capability on an electric truck.”
Another innovative feature of the Lightning is that, as a result of not needing as much space up front for an engine and transmission, the under the hood section of the vehicle is now a trunk. It offers 400 litres of volume and 400 pounds of payload, has four electrical outlets, two USB chargers and a drainable floor.
The Ford F-150 Lightning is expected to arrive in spring 2022.
“We’re not here to make an electric truck for the few. Ford is committed to building one that solves real problems for real people,” said Kumar
Galhotra, president of the Americas and international markets group. “F-150 Lightning delivers everything we’ve said electric vehicles can offer, plus the capability expected from a Ford truck – not just near-instant torque but powerful towing and hauling customers can depend on.” cc
Mario Cywinski is the editor of Plant magazine, Machinery and Equipment MRO magazine and Food and Beverage magazine, a member of the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada, and a judge for Canadian Truck King Challenge. He has over 13 years of editorial experience; nearly three years of maintenance, reliability, and operations experience; over 16 years of automobile industry experience, as well as small business industry experience.
STAYING HOME
How to plan for future accessibility needs in a retiree renovation.
By Alex Mackenzie
My parents recently bought their retirement home, and, like most people who buy a new house, they have been busy making it their own. With the process of personalization has come the realization that this is the home they will grow to old age in, and it’s difficult for me as their child to admit that such a time is not as far off as I’d like to think. My mother has arthritis and diabetes, and my father has gout and migraines that have become substantially more debilitating with age. Facing the reality of their frailties is frightening, to say the least, but knowing that the renovations they have undertaken on their new house will allow them to remain independent in their own home for as long as possible gives me more than a small measure of peace of mind. John McLellan of McLellan Contracting shared a few tips for both homeowners and contractors on creating accessibility in the home during aging-in-place renovations. McLellan serves as the Ajax Pickering Board of Trade representative for the City of Pickering Accessibility Advisory Committee.
Get on my level
A major point of design that should be considered for anyone looking for a home for their retirement is whether or not they will be able to access stairs and for how long. Given my mother’s arthritis, my parents answer to the question of stairs was a swift
and nonnegotiable, “No.” Singlestory homes remove the worry around stairs and make for a simpler living arrangement with all the necessities on
one level. But even a ranch house often has at least a few steps to overcome and many still have a stairwell to the basement. That’s where rail lifts and
Rail-based stair and platform lifts offer and excellent option for those that are set to age in place in a multi-level home.
even in-home elevators can become quickly needed accessibility tools. While for many, the first thought on the topic of disability access is a ramp,
in reality, they are both impractical and generally unattractive, especially if one is needed to access the front door of a home. The length needed
for a ramp to access even a two-foot ascension is in the ballpark of 20 feet. In order to make things simpler and to protect the curb appeal of the home and the dignity of the homeowner, McLellan suggests a residential porch lift and notes that they are most often installed at the garage access point to avoid the added danger of slippery surfaces as a result of rain and snow.
ONURDONGEL / ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES
On the interior, rail-based chair and platform lifts are fairly common and can easily be installed in the majority of stairwells. While these tools provide a greatly adaptable and more costeffective option, they still come with lingering safety concerns should the device encounter objects blocking its path or if the user were to fall off the device mid-stair. A safer but far more cost- and space-restrictive option is an in-home elevator. While this option is more realistic for a custom new-build home, the potential for installing one during a renovation still exists in the form of borrowed space, such as from a front room or entrance hall, spare closet, or even an underused powder room.
As more and more Boomers move towards retirement, new construction projects are taking these accessibility measures to heart and doing away with what were previously standard ways of doing things in favour of more disability- and age-friendly options. One of the biggest examples is the long-running trend of exterior step downs. While the idea of stepping over a threshold may still hold romantic significance for some, the reality is that even a few inches of lift between the interior flooring and the outside world is a massive barrier for those who use mobility aids or just have more trouble
PHOTO:
getting around than they used to. McLellan recommends “Getting rid of level changes. One level – there’s no need to have trip points and it’s a better use of space when everything is on one level.” This includes outdoor spaces
such as porches, patios and decks.
Hardwood, carpet or vinyl?
For my parents, the first thing that needed to be done in their new home was to rip out the carpets. Canes, walkers and other mobility aids can become caught on carpets that are too plush or have become loose or warped, posing a serious danger to those at risk of falling. McLellan notes, “The type of flooring is very important because if you’re in a walker or even if you’re walking with assistance, dragging your feet across carpet has a lot more friction than dragging them across a different kind of finished floor.” In areas where a homeowner insists on carpet, such as bedrooms, low pile options are best as they minimize the chances for snags and trips. Similarly, in areas that have wood, vinyl or tile floors, it’s best to avoid the use of area rugs, especially those that are thick and have large, ridged edges. While the standard of luxury in the world of flooring has long been hardwood, these days, most floors that look like hardwood just aren’t, and in the case of aging in place renovations, that’s a
Porch lifts are an excellent alternative to ramps as they take far less space and can be installed inside the garage to avoid hazardous weather.
good thing. For my parent’s renovation, they went with a luxury vinyl plank flooring with a cork backing to absorb the pressure from the shock of heavy, arthritic footsteps or, knock on wood, a fall. Another key aspect of flooring for aging in place renovations is the transitioning from one type of flooring to another. Having a large lip or significant difference in flooring heights from one section of the home to another becomes a fall risk hot spot or even a completely inaccessible area for those with mobility aids such as wheelchairs. Beyond the products themselves, it is also important that flooring and transition strips are properly installed to avoid the potential for shifting of materials or the rising of rogue nails.
The danger zone
It’s likely no surprise that the most dangerous room in a home is the bathroom. The American Centre for Disease Control has conducted studies that show approximately 235,000 people go to the emergency room every year due to bathroom-related injuries just in the United States alone, with nearly 14 percent of those individuals requiring hospitalization. One of the simplest ways to make the bathroom safer is to install grab bars, but these can sometimes spark resistance from homeowners who feel the
bars are an unnecessary eye sore. McLellan counters this point by stating, “When it comes to things like placement of grab bars, grab bars don’t have to look institutional. They make really nice grab bars. Lots of manufacturers make them like they’re part of a soap dish or part of a towel bar, and they just make them to take 500 pounds or more so that people aren’t feeling like they’re at a hospital when they go into their own bathroom.” For my parents’ renovation, the bathroom was also high on the priority list as my mother’s arthritis is made more manageable with the heat and buoyancy of a good bath. And so rises another dilemma: how to make a bathtub as safe as possible for someone with mobility issues. Obviously, someone that uses a wheelchair to the fullest extent probably isn’t going to opt for a bathtub at all, preferring instead to have a fully accessible no-lip shower entry that they can wheel themselves or be wheeled into directly. But for those that like a good soak, there are many options for lower-edged tubs, units with built-in grab bars that blend into the esthetics of the design, and walk-in tubs with easy access through a door in the side, though a major downside to such models is the fact that the user has to get in the tub before it is full of water.
Another key area of the bathroom that should be considered during aging-in-place renovations is the toilet. Undoubtedly the most essential and one of the most oftenused items in the room, the toilet is surprisingly easy to overlook, but, in reality, it should be at the top of the bathroom renovation checklist. Toilets that sit up higher make getting on and off much easier for those with knee and hip issues and helps to avoid the use of unsightly and unsanitary removable commodes. The placement of the toilet should also be considered to ensure that a grab bar and even the toilet paper roll are well within reach for the user.
Renovate for the long haul
One issue that many homeowners and even a fair number of contractors might overlook during an aging in place renovation is the size of the doorway into bathrooms, bedrooms and closets. Most standard residential doorways are not large enough to accommodate even manual wheelchairs, let alone the electric style chairs that are meant to make mobility safer and easier for the user. McLellan recommends, “Always widen the door as much as you can during the renovation now because it’s way more expensive to do it later.” In fact, much of McLellan’s advice revolves around building a renovation for the future of the owner, not their present state. A person’s health and mobility can decrease dramatically in a few short years or even in an instant, but a renovation should set them up for the next 30 years. He states, “The conversation is always about what’s in the benefit for the future customer. You don’t want to ever insult them, but you don’t want them to cut off their nose to spite their face. It’s compromise.” cc
Roll-in showers are the pinnacle of accessibility in the bathroom, allowing users to access the shower without any barriers.
What
caught our interest
WHAT CAUGHT OUR INTEREST
NO NEED TO VENT
saniflo.ca
The Saniompact is a self-contained dual-flush toilet system that can be installed in a halfbathroom up to nine feet below the sewer line, or even up to 120 feet away from a soil stack. It incorporates a macerating system which can handle human waste and toilet paper in residential applications. The blade is made out of a hardened stainless-steel material which eliminates the need for any service or replacement. The Sanicompact is a combination of a vitreous china toilet bowl and macerator/ pump built into one compact unit. This modern-shaped, self-contained, china toilet is especially designed with several ideas in mind. It is suitable for situations where there is not enough space. It uses a minimum amount of water and is ideal for people that have physical limitations. The Sanicompact needs no gravity flow tank as the flushing action and macerating pump cycle is automatic after pressing a push button on top of the bowl. The flushing mechanism is electrically timed to allow water to pass through the toilet. Pressing the push button activates a timer and a solenoid valve in order to fill and wash the sides of the bowl. The motor starts and the waste and paper are sucked inside where it is macerated and pumped away. The motor stops after approximately 10-15 seconds and the timer programs the refill of the bowl with fresh water. The standard dual-flush version uses 1.28 gallons per flush or one gallon per flush. To choose either option,
the unit is equipped with a dual push button. This option allows using less water than any regular toilet but with the same efficiency. The inside of the Sanicompact comprises of a pressure switch and circuit board assembly, which starts and stops the unit, and the motor, which drives the blade and the pump. The motor is sealed for life in an oil-filled enclosure. A common spindle/shaft drives the impeller and the macerator blades. The moving parts, therefore, are kept to an absolute minimum. Water and organic waste matter enter the chamber and are reduced to slurry as the macerator blades rotate at 3,600 RPM. The reduced solids are picked up and the impeller mounted beneath the motor ejects the waste. The unit pumps the effluent upward to nine feet and/or 120 feet horizontally (with gravity fall). The discharge elbow on the back of the Sanicompact can be rotated 360 degrees to fit any type of installation required. A non-return valve, which comes already assembled on the discharge elbow, prevents back flow into the unit. The Sanicompact will also discharge gray water from a sink. The wastewater drains into a 1 1/4-inch hose connection in the back of the toilet. The system turns on automatically once water is drained from a sink. The Sanicompact is a forced main and does not need to be vented or connected to a vent stack. Other fixtures may need to be vented as per local plumbing codes. It is also highly recommended for the macerator/pump to be connected to a ground fault interrupter circuit.
The Pathway 3G modular access system from EZ-Access consists of ramps, stairs and platforms, all of which may be combined and configured in a variety of ways to provide a customized access solution. Its unique features, including universal components and interchangeable surface and handrail options, make it an excellent choice when residential access requirements extend beyond the scope of a portable ramp. If needs change, the Pathway 3G can transition. This American-made modular system is made of durable aluminum and comes complete with a lifetime warranty. Ramp lengths from two to eight feet and platform sizes up to eight feet by five feet enable it to overcome any access challenge. Choose from two surface options: solid and expanded metal.
NO FIGHTING WITH STUDS promenaid.com
Integra grab bars can increase the safety and security of a home whether it’s for bathrooms, doorways or elsewhere, indoors and out. They are available in any size and are easy to install, especially in places other grab bars look out of place or simply can’t fit. Elegant and versatile, Integra grab bars fit the contractor’s design, not the other way around. Tired of the grab bar versus stud fight? Integra changes everything with both standard sizes or custom lengths. They can be easily trimmed on-site to fit any stud spacing. Integra grab bars add a note of elegance to any room or decor. Choose
from a satin anodized Endura finish or TrueWood genuine hardwood. Integra eliminates unsightly flanges for a sleek look. The Endura anodized finish stands up to dry, wet, and even salt spray conditions. Combining strength with style, Integra’s invisible wall-mounting hardware supports up to 700 pounds. Extra grip is provided by the non-slip vinyl insert with an anti-bacterial treatment. Designed to be easy and fast to install, Integra uses invisible wall connectors. Sprockets attach to the wall and 90-degree bends attach the bar to the sprockets. Optional rosettes protect fragile surfaces.
UNIQUE DOOR DESIGN
aquaticabath.ca
The Baby Boomer 2 is a modern, solid-surface walk-in bathtub. Specifically designed to provide a safe, stable and therapeutic soak, the Baby Boomer 2 is a luxury bathing solution for older bathers, people with disabilities or individuals suffering from health and mobility-related issues. This easily accessible freestanding bathtub is also beneficial for families, allowing parents to safely bathe their young children. Featuring a grab bar, low-entry step and easy-to-use door, the Baby Boomer 2 enables bathers to comfortably enter and exit the tub without the fear of falling. The wide, ergonomically designed seat provides a comfortable and enjoyable experience for bathers of all shapes and sizes. A carefully constructed, frosted, high-molecularcast acrylic glass door provides a safe bathing environment with easy access. The frosted door ensures privacy, while also offering a versatile and modern appeal. The door features high impact strength, more than 10 times higher than normal glass with a hardness similar to aluminum. Unlike tempered glass, it cannot shatter or disintegrate. It offers excellent thermal and acoustic insulation and is weatherproof and UV-resistant (no visible aging for at least 10 years in outdoor use). It is lighter than glass (about half), with a density of only 1.2 kilograms per cubic meter, which is only slightly heavier than water. Scratches are easily removable with polishing paste and a hand polisher. The Baby Boomer
2 includes a white door handle extension for easier access and ultimate comfort. Ergonomically designed, the large handle provides better control, making it extremely easy for all bathers to open and close the door. The curved design ensures older bathers, or individuals suffering from arthritis or mobility related issues, do not stress or strain any muscles and joints. Lacquered by master craftsmen, the Baby Boomer 2 door handle extension is also available for purchase in red, orange, green or blue. Designed to provide easy access to all bathers, the Baby Boomer 2 walk-in bath features a low entry step, rounded lines and smooth surfaces. The tub’s solid surface material and innovative design prevents slipping, alleviating the fear of falling. This creates a relaxing bathing environment and enables individuals to care for themselves and live more independently. The Baby Boomer 2 walk-in bathtub features a stainless steel underbody with a weight-bearing frame under the tub’s seat and bottom. This provides additional rigidity and improved weight-bearing capacity, enabling all shapes and sizes to enjoy a comfortable soak. Made of high-quality marine-grade stainless steel, the hinges, handles, lock and grab bar were designed specifically for this walk-in bath model. Featuring exceptional durability, this premium steel is rust and corrosion resistant, providing excellent performance and esthetics for many years.
THE JOBSITE OF BABEL
A few years ago, Ed hired Randi, a recent immigrant from Columbia. Randi was a great worker and he had several friends, also skilled tradesmen recently arrived in Canada, so Ed hired them, too. They’ve been great and Ed is very happy with their work.
But not everyone is happy. Ed’s son, Sean, is a site supervisor and he’s getting annoyed at the Columbians’ habit of speaking Spanish to one another most of the time. He feels cut out of what is going on at the site, and fears his other, English-speaking workers may feel the same way. He also suspects, with some evidence in support, that they are using Spanish to secretly make disrespectful comments about him and others. Occasionally, a truck driver or subtradesperson will show up who looks Latino and these workers will assume they speak Spanish and address them in that language. They have been wrong a few times, to everyone’s embarrassment.
Ed and Sean have no problem in principle with the Columbians speaking Spanish if they want to. But they are becoming increasingly uncomfortable with the workplace dynamic they feel is emerging from it being used so much in situations where not everyone can join in.
Last issue’s winner: Vax vexation
Last month’s Dilemma posed the question of what a business owner should do when employees refuse to get vaccinated. Shawn Jaspers of Jaspers Custom Homes predicted his answer wouldn’t win because “most people are letting the media decide what is right and true.” Well, The Dilemma isn’t about whether we agree with the answer or not, it’s about rewarding the best answer we get. Accordingly, Shawn wins for this passionate argument.
The Human Rights Code protects the dignity and worth of every person for equal rights and opportunities without discrimination and mutual respect for the dignity and worth of each person so that each person feels a part of the “team” and able to contribute fully to the development and well-being of the community and province. Further, under 2(1) of the Human Rights Code every person has the right to equal treatment without discrimination.
Under the Personal Health Information Act 2004, SO 2004, c3, Sch. A, it is forbidden by law to collect or request personal health information or health history such that it can be associated with their identification. Under 19(1) an individual may legally refuse consent to have health information be collected, used or disclosed. Further to this, under the Freedom of Information and Protection Act, RSO 1990, cF31, personal information consisting of medical records is forbidden to be collected on the behalf of an institution without consent.
This is the law. My business will proudly not discriminate nor persuade any individual to take or not take a vaccine. My employees’ personal health information will be exactly that: their own business.
Congratulations, Shawn. Enjoy your new DeWalt Flexvolt string trimmer.
What should Ed do?
1. Mandate English-only on his jobsites. It’s too important that everyone be communicating openly all the time.
2. Sit down with the Columbians, outline their concerns and brainstorm solutions. Hopefully they will agree to limit their use of Spanish when working.
3. Enroll everyone in Spanish lessons. Personal growth, right?
4. Start replacing the Columbians with English-speaking workers. This cross-cultural thing just hasn’t worked out.
5. Start replacing the English speakers with Spanish speakers. They really are good at their jobs.
6. Something else?
HOW TO ENTER
If you have a solution to Ed’s dilemma, email your entry to pflannery@annexbusinessmedia.com and put “Ed dilemma” in the subject line. Please don’t post your response to the Dilemma post on our website.
Entries close Nov. 30. The winner will be announced in the Jan/Feb issue.
