Construction Outlook July 2023

JULY | 2023

J. F. White Contracting Company Tackles Complex Foundation and Deck for “Air Rights” Parcel 7 Project

UCANE Interview :

Representative David Rogers

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OFFICERS President RYAN McCOURT

McCourt Construction Company

President-Elect BRIAN COONEY

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Treasurer CHRIS VALENTI

JULY, 2023

IN THIS ISSUE

5 President’s Message:

Summer Weather Once Again Highlights the Dire Need to Update Our Infrastructure

7 Legislative Update: •

Secretary QUERINO PACELLA

• • •

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

•

GVC Construction, Inc.

RJV Construction Corp.

MARCELLA ALBANESE

Albanese Brothers, Inc.

VINCENT BARLETTA

Barletta Heavy Division

MIKE BISZKO, III

Biszko Contracting Corp.

CALVIN BRANDFORD CHB Excavating

CHRISTOPHER CLARK

World Insurance Associates, LLC

JULIA D’ALLESSANDRO D’Allessandro Corp.

GEORGE DeFELICE

DeFelice Corporation

JERRY GAGLIARDUCCI

Gagliarducci Construction, Inc.

JOE GIOIOSO

P. Gioioso & Sons, Inc.

JUSTIN GOODHEART

J. F. White Contracting Co.

DAVID HAMILTON

E. J. Prescott, Inc.

DAN HORGAN

R. H. White Const. Co., Inc.

LISA FRENCH KELLEY

W. L. French Excavating Corp.

JIM MADDEN

Palmer Paving Corp.

CHIP McDONALD

ATS Equipment, Inc.

MIKE OTTAVIANO

Jolin Paving & Excavating, Inc.

ROBBIE OUR

Robert B. Our Co., Inc.

BRIAN RAWSTON

Jay Cashman, Inc.

JEFF MAHONEY

Executive Director

Senate Passes Tax Relief Package; Conference Committee Meeting to Reconcile Proposals UCANE Weighs in on Legislation Before State Administration Committee BWSC Unveils New Stormwater Utility to Assist Infrastructure Modernization Healey-Driscoll Administration Expands State Spending Benchmarks to LGBT and Disability-Owned Businesses There’s a Dashboard for That Too: MassDOT Announces New Online Vehicle Census Dashboard

23 UCANE Interview:

Representative David Rogers (D-24th Middlesex District)

27 Legal Corner: Fatal Accident: Willful Violation of OSHA Regulations Leads to Criminal Consequences

31 Under the Hard Hat:

An Interview with UCANE Board Member Justin Goodheart, J. F. White Contracting Co.

38 UCANE Member of the Month:

J. F. White Contracting Company Approaches its 100th Anniversary

42 J. F. White Contracting Company Tackles Complex Foundation and Deck for “Air Rights” Parcel 7 Project 51 Safety Corner:

Understanding Heat Stress in Construction: OSHA’s Requirements for Worker Safety

54 MWRA 2022 Drinking Water Test Results 69 Insurance Perspective:

Navigating Construction Risks: How Inland Marine Insurance Keeps Projects Afloat

71 5 Ways of Addressing the Labor Shortage to Recruit & Retain Staff 77 Understanding Confined Space Risks 79 Spotlight on Cape Cod: Local Water Quality Projects Secure New Funding

Editor: Jeff Mahoney, Senior Editor: Anne Klayman, Associate Editor Suzanne Hatch, Magazine Designer/Assistant Editor: Sherri Klayman, Head Writer/Assistant Editor: Mike Lenihan Construction Outlook Chair: Ryan McCourt Editorial Board: Ryan McCourt, Brian Cooney, Chris Valenti, & Querino Pacella CONSTRUCTION OUTLOOK published monthly by the Utility Contractors’ Association of New England, Inc., 300 Congress Street, Suite 101, Quincy, MA 02169; Tel: 617.471.9955; Fax: 617.471.8939; Email: jmahoney@ucane.com; Website: www.ucane.com. Statements of fact and opinion are those of the authors alone and not necessarily those of UCANE and the Construction Outlook editorial board and staff. Subscriptions are included in dues payments for UCANE members. Presorted Standard postage paid at Brockton, MA. POSTMASTER, please send form #3579 to Construction Outlook, Crown Colony Office Park, 300 Congress Street, Suite 101, Quincy, MA 02169.

Summer Weather Once Again Highlights the Dire Need to Update Our Infrastructure Summer is in full swing here in New England, and it is a time when people travel here from around the world to enjoy all the natural beauty and activities our area has to offer from Cape Cod to the Berkshires to the White Mountains. Another aspect of summer that has become increasingly normal is extreme weather. As Mark Twain is famously credited with saying, “If you don’t like New England weather, give it a few minutes.” Although even he would be shocked at the disparity that can happen from day to day.

I

n June we went from fall-like temperatures to oppressive humidity in a matter of a few days.

Most recently, downpours have done significant damage to areas of central and western Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and especially Vermont. We have come to expect this weather over the last few years, regardless of the season. The need for climate resiliency is yet another critical reason why we need additional investment in our water infrastructure.

UCANE continues to emphasize that our drinking water and wastewater infrastructure systems are outdated. We track water main breaks throughout the state, and they come in on almost a daily basis. Most of these breaks are caused by old pipes, which are not equipped to handle the disparities in weather. The storms over the last few years have only served to highlight how woefully inadequate our underground infrastructure is.

This magazine also reports on the millions of gallons of raw sewage that discharges into all our rivers on a regular basis during storms because several treatment plants along our rivers are too old and are not equipped to handle the storm surges that occur.

These types of incidents should never happen in 2023, yet they still do on a regular basis. The shortterm solution was the passage of legislation that notiJULY, 2023

fied residents after a discharge that the water quality in the river was unsafe. While notification is important and a way of highlighting the problem, these treatment plants need additional funding to do the necessary upgrades so that these discharges no longer happen.

The positive news is that in 2022 we saw the passage of a long-sought-after federal infrastructure bill that can bring almost $10 billion in funding to Massachusetts, $1.1 billion directly for water infrastructure.

And UCANE’s advocacy efforts helped direct hundreds of millions of additional dollars towards water and underground infrastructure through stimulus and surplus revenues. We can no longer let “out of sight be out of mind” and ignore all the recent examples we have seen when our outdated water infrastructure is neglected.

UCANE is taking nothing for granted.

We will continue to strongly advocate for these projects that are critical to public health and economic development. It is imperative that all stakeholders, public and private, take advantage of the opportunity being presented through these additional funding measures. n

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Senate Passes Tax Relief Package; Conference Committee Meeting to Reconcile Proposals

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he Massachusetts Senate passed its version of a long-anticipated tax relief package in mid-June. In approving its $590 million tax relief bill, Senate leaders aimed to provide relief to renters, seniors, and parents while also increasing housing production. Whereas the Senate took a more “progressive” approach to improving the Commonwealth’s competitiveness, the Massachusetts House of Representatives focused on a broader approach that also embraced certain key initiatives sought by the larger business community. A Conference Committee of three House members (Representatives Cusack, Michlewitz, and Soter) and three Senate members (Senators Moran, Rodrigues, and Tarr) are now negotiating a potential consensus bill to send to the Governor.

Specifically, the Senate tax package would: •

Increase the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) from 30% to 40% of the federal credit;

•

Merge existing credits into a new and enhanced Child and Dependent Tax Credit (CDTC) and increase the amount of the credit from $180 to $310 per child/dependent while eliminating the current cap of two children/dependents;

•

Increase the statewide cap for the Housing Development Incentive Program (HDIP) from $10 million to $57 million on a one-time basis and then to $30 million annually;

•

Increase the cap on the rental deduction from $3,000 to $4,000;

•

Raise the annual authorization of the Low Income Housing Tax Credit from $40 million to $60 million

•

Double the maximum senior circuit breaker credit from $1,200 to $2,400;

JULY, 2023

•

Exclude homes valued at under $2 million from the Estate Tax and eliminate the “cliff effect” by allowing a uniform credit of $99,600 for all estates;

•

Triple the maximum credit under the Title V Tax Credit from $6,000 to $18,000, and lift the amount claimable to $4,000 per year;

•

Expand eligible occupations for the Apprenticeship Tax Credit and increase a series of industry specific tax credits.

In a nod to its future negotiations with the House, the Senate tax package includes a study by the Executive Office of Administration and Finance on the feasibility of making advance quarterly payments of the Child and Dependent Tax Credit. The legislation also mandates a study by the Department of Revenue on the efficacy of an additional, elective entitylevel tax of up to four percent on a portion of qualified taxable income in the Commonwealth, coupled with a refundable credit, for eligible pass-through entities. Finally, the Senate tax relief proposal would require the comptroller to report monthly to the Massachusetts legislature on net state tax revenue collections, including an estimate of if and when revenues may exceed the allowable state tax revenue threshold under Chapter 62F of the Massachusetts General Laws. The Senate tax relief proposal does not change the calculation of the 62F threshold or the distribution of the credit as the House proposal does.

To view the Senate’s tax relief proposal, please visit https://malegislature.gov/Bills/193/S2406. To view the House’s tax relief proposal, please visit: https://malegislature.gov/Bills/193/H3770. continued on page 9

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Legislative Update continued from page 7

UCANE Weighs in on Legislation Before State Administration Committee

T

he Joint Committee on State Administration, chaired by House Chair Antonio F.D. Cabral and Senator Nick Collins, recently held a public hearing on a variety of legislative proposals that would impact public construction. Of note to UCANE members, the Committee heard testimony relative to House Bill 3001/Senate Bill 1972, An Act Relative to the Timely and Consistent Payment of Law Enforcement Personnel. This legislation, which received a favorable report from the Committee in the previous session, will likely reduce the cost of bid projects and ensure that law enforcement details are properly and timely paid.

While the laws on the use of police details are clear, the method of compensation is not. Some awarding authorities require the contractor to pay for police details; other awarding authorities make the payments themselves. The awarding authority, which is responsible for the oversight and management of a project, including record-keeping in connection with police details on the project, is likely the most responsible party for handling the payment associated with

those police details. House Bill 3001/Senate Bill 1972 proposing amending Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 30; §39M to require awarding authorities, undertaking public works projects under this section of law, to make direct payments to those entities providing such paid details.

The legislation further provides that the cost of police details shall not be included as part of the bid submitted by any offeror responding to a bid solicitation conducted in accordance with Mass. Gen. Laws ch.

30, §39M. Finally, the legislation provides that this new requirement be referenced as part of any request for proposals (RFP) or request for response (RFR) so that contractors do not include a bid amount for this item.

In supporting the legislation, UCANE submitted written testimony that highlighted that “[t]his legislation has three distinct and clear benefits: greater control for awarding authorities over project costs; reducing costs within bids submitted by contractors; and, as importantly, ensuring that a police officer never goes without payment due to the default or bankruptcy of a contraccontinued on page 11

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Legislative Update continued from page 9 tor.” Executive Director of Construction Industries of Massachusetts (CIM), John Pourbaix, testified at the public hearing in support of the legislation as well.

UCANE also weighed in on two bills that may have unintended consequences on the construction industry.

House Bill 3030/Senate Bill 2034/House Bill 3086, An Act Relative to the Definition of Fraud in Public Construction Bid Laws, would attempt to change the common law definition of “fraud” to include any statements, acts or omissions included as part of a bid response regardless of whether this information is actually relied upon by the awarding authority. While UCANE understands the intention of this legislation, the language as it stands will leave contractors liable to allegations of “fraud” for any accidental omissions of statements or documents submitted as part of a bid response – even when an awarding authority may place no reliance, weight or consideration on the same. Massachusetts courts have already held that an awarding authority must rely on the information submitted for it to be fraud.

See Fordyce v. Town of Hanover, 473 Mass. 248 (2010).

In essence, this legislation simply tries to undermine hundreds of years of caselaw that recognize that for an act to be “fraud;” another party must rely on the same as a fact or a stated truth.

In the second set of legislation, House Bill 2995, An Act Relative to Bidding for Public Construction Contracts (DCAMM)/Senate Bill 1985, An Act Relative to Increasing Transparency in Public Construction (MassDOT), these two bills, one which impacts prequalification before the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (SB1985) and, the other, prequalifications before the Massachusetts Division of Capital Asset Management and Maintenance (HB2995), would make contractors’ application for a certificate of eligibility and update statements public records. As no empirical evidence has been offered, nor exists, that demonstrates a need to make prequalification information a public record, UCANE respectfully asked the Committee to study these

matters further. In doing so, UCANE noted that the “legislation potentially puts contractors at risk from anti-competitive actions by third parties who seek to second-guess awarding authorities or seek unfair advantages for preferred contractors. Such actions do not benefit awarding authorities or, more importantly, the taxpayers of the Commonwealth.”

The Joint Committee on State Administration, which will continue to collect written testimony on the various initiatives, has until the first Wednesday of February 2024 to issue either a favorable, unfavorable, or study order report on the measures. continued on page 13 Est. 1926

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Legislative Update continued from page 11

BWSC Unveils New Stormwater Utility to Assist Infrastructure Modernization

A

t the start of 2024, the Boston Water & Sewer Commission (BWSC) will launch a new stormwater utility that will meet an increased need to modernize Boston’s stormwater infrastructure and better prepare for climate change. The proposed stormwater utility will restructure BWSC’s current billing by creating a stormwater charge, as well as credit and grant programs that will allow customers to reduce their stormwater charge by performing approved stormwater management activities.

According to a press release from the agency, BWSC expects that the majority of residential customers will not see an increase in their overall bill because the new billing structure includes a reduction to the existing sewer rate. The funds from the new stormwater charge will help make

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necessary improvements to Boston’s stormwater management systems to better prepare the City for more frequent and intense storms, mitigate flooding, and reduce the amount of polluted runoff draining to the city’s waterways. Ahead of the launch, BWSC will undertake a six-month public outreach campaign, during which BWSC will solicit feedback and share information about the proposed stormwater utility with the public.

The new stormwater charge will allow BWSC and its partners to modernize infrastructure while allowing the City of Boston to address additional challenges posed by both climate change and urban development’s expanding footprint.

Stormwater is generated when precipitation falls on hard impervious surfaces like roofs, driveways, roads, or sidewalks and “runs off,” rather than absorbing into the ground as it would in nature. When stormwater flows over hard surfaces, it collects litter, sediment, and other pollutants, like motor oil and fertilizer. Stormwater does not receive treatment at the Deer Island wastewater treatment plant, which means that all the pollutants carried by stormwater enter the Commonwealth’s lakes, rivers, streams, and harbors.

In a city that receives an average of 48 inches of rainfall annually, stormwater runoff also contributes to inland flooding. Due to climate change, storms are becoming more frequent and continued on page 15

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Legislative Update continued from page 13 more intense, which will result in more flooding in the coming years if BWSC and the City do not begin to adapt now. To respond to these challenges, BWSC is highlighting the fact that the City of Boston must make improvements to its aging storm drain system, add storage capacity and stormwater treatment, and increase maintenance activities. For its part, BWSC has stated that infrastructure improvements will include pipe replacement and upsizing to accommodate larger volumes of water; stormwater storage features, like stormwater trenches, chambers, vaults, and other infiltration features that will be implemented wherever feasible; and additional staff, training, and equipment to facilitate more frequent and effective maintenance for all stormwater infrastructure, both gray and green.

The proposed stormwater charge will be used exclusively for stormwater management and will be based on the amount of impervious surface on a property. This is the most common basis for stormwater charges across the country and will more accurately reflect the cost of collecting and managing stormwater. Additionally,

JULY, 2023

customers that currently receive BWSC’s elderly and disability discounts (30% on water and sewer charges) will have those discounts automatically applied to the stormwater charge.

The City of Boston’s stormwater system is New England’s largest and consists of over 30,000 catch basins and 600 miles of pipe conveying stormwater to more than 250 outfalls.

BWSC customers currently pay for stormwater management through the rates charged for sewer service. In the past, when sewage and stormwater were managed with one set of “combined sewer” pipes, using sewer charges to pay for stormwater management made sense. Now that BWSC has largely separated Boston’s combined system, the proposed stormwater utility will separate out charges for stormwater from the charges for sewer.

BWSC is in the process of determining the final amount of the proposed stormwater charge.

For more information about the proposed stormwater utility (stormwater charge, credit program, and grant program), as well as a bill estimator tool, please visit: https://www.bwsc.org/stormwater. continued on page 17

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Legislative Update continued from page 15

A

Healey-Driscoll Administration Expands State Spending Benchmarks to LGBT and Disability-Owned Businesses

t the end of June, the Healey-Driscoll Administration announced two new initiatives aimed at expanding opportunities for diverse and small businesses to provide goods and services to state agencies and local governments. The Administration is updating the Commonwealth’s Supplier Diversity Program (SDP) to include spending benchmarks for LGBT-owned Business Enterprises (LGBTBE) and Disability-owned Business Enterprises (DOBE) in the Commonwealth’s Supplier Diversity Program (SDP) for the first time.

It is also implementing a new interactive online map that will help state agencies, cities, towns, prime bidders and contractors identify certified diverse business partners.

As reported in a press release from the Governor’s Office, the Supplier Diversity Office (SDO) promotes equity of opportunity in the procurement and purchase of goods and services by executive agencies for DOBEs, LGBTBEs, Minority (MBE), Women (WBE), Veteran (VBE) and Service-Disabled Veteran (SDVOBE) owned businesses. LGBTQBE and DOBE are currently the only categories without established benchmarks. As of July 1, state agencies will work towards purchasing $18 million from LGBT-owned businesses and $18 million from businesses owned by individuals with disabilities during fiscal year 2024. After evaluating purchasing against these benchcontinued on page 19

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Legislative Update continued from page 17 marks over the next year, the Administration will set new goals for fiscal year 2025.

In 2015, the SDO expanded to include Veteran (VBE), Disability (DOBE), and Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBTBE) owned businesses, which made Massachusetts the most inclusive state supplier diversity program in the nation. At the time, no benchmark was set for DOBE or LGBTBE spending as those certification categories were new, and the Commonwealth needed to develop certified vendor capacity.

In addition to setting aside spending amounts for LGBTBE and DOBE businesses, the Administration also unveiled the Massachusetts Certified Business Dashboard, a new interactive online map that will help state agencies, cities, towns, and prime bidders and contractors locate certified diverse business partners based on location, as well as other criteria. Users can search by in-state and out of state, county, city or town, certifi-

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cation type, and by business name. Displayed information includes Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) business count, State business count, and counts by certification type, for-profit and non-profit, and business nature type.

The dashboard is the SDO’s latest innovation to increase equity in state purchasing.

Since its reconfiguration in 2021, the SDO has introduced the Supplier Diversity Hub, a network that streamlines communication between state agencies, cities, towns, prime contractors and diverse and small businesses, the Resources Webpage for Diverse and Small Businesses, the Municipal Supplier Diversity Playbook and the SDO Means Business model, which provides resources and tools to eliminate barriers and uplift diverse and small businesses.

To view the SDO’s new dashboard, please visit: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/sdocertified-diverse-business-dashboard. continued on page 21

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Legislative Update continued from page 19

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There’s a Dashboard for That Too: MassDOT Announces New Online Vehicle Census Dashboard

he Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) also announced the launch of a new online dashboard, the Massachusetts Vehicle Census (MVC), the first public dataset that joins information about how much vehicles are being driven with information about the vehicles themselves, including vehicle type, vehicle use, fuel classification, and the municipality the vehicle is garaged in.

According to a press release issued by MassDOT, the Massachusetts Vehicle Census is a resource for the public providing information regarding vehicle usage, baseline data on the total number of vehicles available, and mileage accrual. The data now available to the public will support conversations regarding

how to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Specifically, the Massachusetts Vehicle Census, with Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) regarding the state’s vehicle fleet, fulfills the legislative requirements established in the 2022 climate and clean energy bill (Chapter 170 of the Acts of 2022). MassDOT worked in collaboration with the Metropolitan Area Planning Council (MAPC) in the development of this resource. The public can view the dataset and then filter data geographically by municipality and metropolitan planning organization (MPO), as well as by selected characteristics about vehicles. To view the dashboard and associated database, please visit: https://geodothomepage-massdot.hub.arcgis.com/pages/ massvehiclecensus.n

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Representative David Rogers (D - 24th Middlesex District)

Representative David Rogers joined the House of Representatives in 2013, after working as a business lawyer. He campaigned in 2012, spending countless hours researching the issues in our state and talking to the people in his community.

At the time, he saw an opportunity to make a difference and he still strives to make an impact every day.

Q:

As costs continue to rise, please give your thoughts on how the state will continue to support local aid to cities and towns to help support basic municipal services, specifically water, wastewater, and underground utility infrastructure.

A:

My mind jumps to the Massachusetts Clean Water Trust. This agency, funded mostly through federal appropriation, provides grants and lowinterest loans to municipalities and other entities to improve water quality and safety by building and replacing water infrastructure. MassDEP, which I consistently advocate for during the budget season, then has oversight of the projects, helping municipalities advance their water services and infrastructure. Given the enormous need, I think the state must find the resources to support these infrastructure investments.

Q: A:

What are the biggest challenges for your district and region with regard to continued economic growth?

Since the COVID-19 pandemic began, cities and towns across the country have faced unprecedented financial struggles. In our district, the 24th Middlesex (Arlington, Belmont, and Cambridge), we were lucky that not too many small businesses were forced to close their doors. However, in Belmont, the town has struggled to expand retail business in general, so there are some empty store fronts, even though it has an excellent town center and a very engaged community. This puts additional financial strain on town resources, due to a decline JULY, 2023

in commercial tax revenue. While this is not true for every town, every community has struggled in the past few years, and as such it is important that we listen to our communities and make strategic efforts for economic expansion.

Q:

The #InvestinWaterMA campaign, sponsored

by UCANE, highlights the importance of water infrastructure to a wide variety of industries. Can you share a sampling of some of the specific industries in your district that benefit from our investments in water infrastructure?

A:

Every industry depends on water, but what I first think of is our homes. In my district, there are of course retail establishments and restaurants, but Belmont for example is nicknamed the “Town of Homes.”

So, for a lot of my constituents, home flooding and sewage backups are probably among the biggest concerns, especially for those near the Mugar wetlands and the Alewife Brook.

In Arlington, residents have been advocating for the protection of the Mugar wetlands, in response to a large development proposal. Of the 17-acre space occupied by the wetlands, 15.5 acres are in a FEMA flood zone or an area at high risk of flooding. Should the wetlands be removed, the risk of homes flooding in the area increases, as wetlands naturally minimize the risk of floods. This is an ongoing concern, with a powerful coalition to save the wetlands behind it.

Another issue is related to combined sewer overflows continued on page 25

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Interview continued from page 23 (CSOs), which discharge raw, untreated sewage-contaminated water into our streams and rivers during storms and heavy rain. Save the Alewife Brook hopes to stop combined sewer overflow discharge in a brook which touches Arlington, Cambridge, and Somerville. I currently have a bill (H.886), which would help decrease CSO use and untreated sewage discharge. Better overall water infrastructure, and increased education on its importance, would likely go a long way for both of these issues.

Enhanced water infrastructure also means that lower-income families, as potential homeowners, face less risk in purchasing a home, as water-related risks and the associated costs decrease with better overall infrastructure. So, while my district specifically may not have a standout industry that will benefit from enhanced water infrastructure, it’s clear how it will affect all residents, and even economic equity.

which you can read about on my website, on topics like housing, the environment, caregiving, and more. One of my top legislative priorities this year is Access to Counsel, H.1731, filed with Rep. Day. This bill would help address the current power inequality in eviction proceedings by providing all tenants with access to counsel in such proceedings. Currently, only an estimated 10% or less of tenants show up to court with representation, which stalls cases and leaves them with weakened abilities to win a case and maintain housing. Our bill will help fix that, by administering a counsel program through the Massachusetts Legal Assistance Corporation (MLAC).

That’s just one bill, but it is an important one. Others include H.1940, An Act relative to transparency in the workplace, which aims to help tackle the wage gap, H.890, An Act Responding to the threat of invasive species, which seeks to enhance statewide invasive species monitoring and management, and as I mentioned earlier, H.866, An Act relative to combined sewer overflows. n

Q:

What are your thoughts on how the construction industry can best address workforce shortage and development issues it is facing?

A:

I think part of the answer to the workforce shortage, in the construction industry specifically, and every industry generally, is by investing in and expanding access to equitable, inclusive training and education opportunities. Not everyone is going to college after high school, so investing in high quality vocational education is important. In doing so, we still need to support and retain the people that fit the classic construction worker image in the industry, but we also need to show those who don’t that there is room for them in the field, too. To do that, we need to put further resources into construction industry education and training, with equity consistently involved in our planning.

Q: A:

Can you share some of your other priorities for this Legislative session?

Alongside helping address workforce shortages, investing in industry training and development, as well as utility infrastructure, I’m interested in a variety of issues. This year I filed 66 bills, all of JULY, 2023

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Construction & Public Contracts Group, Hinckley Allen, LLP

Christopher Morog Partner

Robert T. Ferguson Partner

Fatal Accident: Willful Violation of OSHA Regulations Leads to Criminal Consequences In May of 2023, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York announced the criminal sentencing of a New Jersey contractor and its principal, stemming from a fatal violation of applicable OSHA regulations.

T

he case arose out of a construction project in upstate New York involving the construction of three buildings. A soil compaction plan called for the piling of large quantities of dirt “surcharges” where the buildings were to be located.

Although an engineering firm had designed a plan for the use of the surcharges, the defendant contractor and its principal failed to follow the plan. According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, they instead “built a wall to hold back one of the surcharges, so workers could get started on the buildings next to it.”

However, neither the contractor nor its principal “consult[ed] with any qualified person to see if the wall could withstand the weight to be placed on it by the surcharge.” This was a fatal error.

As the contractor continued to add dirt to the surcharge (including by driving machines on top of the surcharge), the surcharge pressed up against the wall. No warnings JULY, 2023

were provided to any of the people working near the wall. And even though the contractor and its principal heard reports that the wall was unsafe, “[t]hey did not fix the wall.”

Unfortunately, the wall collapsed, killing one of the workers who had unsuccessfully attempted to flee. The contractor and its principal pleaded guilty to willfully violating applicable OSHA regulations resulting in the death of a construction worker. The United States District Court for the Southern Discontinued on page 29

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Legal Corner continued from page 27

sign-bid-build context impliedly warrants that the design is sufficient for its intended purpose.

As a result, “if the contractor is bound to build according to plans and specifications prepared by the owner, the contractor will not be held responsible for the consequences of defects in the plans and specifications.” If the contractor believed that a retaining wall was necessary to enable construction, the contractor should have raised this issue for the owner and its design team to resolve. n

trict of New York sentenced the contractor to three years of probation and ordered payment of a $218,417.00 fine. The Court sentenced the contractor’s principal to three months in prison plus one year of supervised release.

The case underscores the purpose of health and safety requirements. Construction is an inherently dangerous business and the failure to follow applicable requirements can lead to irreversible consequences well beyond civil or criminal penalties.

It is imperative that contractors follow applicable OSHA requirements, not only because it is legally required, but because it is the right thing to do to further the health and safety of workers.

When it comes to OSHA compliance, note that prior OSHA citations can lead to future “willful” citations, depending on the circumstances. The U.S. Attorney’s press release did not clearly identify the basis for the “willful” citation in this case.

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with UCANE’s Officers and Board Members Will you please give us some information on your background and tell us how you got started in the construction business?

Thank you for giving me the opportunity to interview for this month’s Construction Outlook magazine. My father was in the lumber industry. He built the log home that I grew up in as a child. Growing up I always enjoyed working side by side with him on different projects around the home. As a teenager I spent a couple summers framing and roofing houses.

After high school, I attended Northeastern University in Boston ,where I graduated with a degree in Civil and Environmental Engineering and a minor in Business Administration.

How long have you been with J. F. White Contracting Company, and what is your role in the company?

As a student at Northeastern University, I took full advantage of their cooperative education program. During college I worked four internship sessions at J. F. White Contracting Co., where I began to learn about the construction industry. Upon graduation I was hired by J. F. White Contracting Company. I am now in my nineteenth year of full-time employment at JFW. I am currently the General Superintendent at our Fenway Center Phase II project in Boston. I am also a member of the JFW Lift Management Team and enjoy taking an active role in company meetings, events, and growth.

JULY, 2023

UCANE Board Member Justin Goodheart J. F. White Contracting Co.

As a young engineer at JFW I was fortunate enough to work with and learn from some of the best people in the business. Nineteen years later I am now a member of the JFW Lift Management Team helping to train another generation of young engineers. I enjoy sharing my knowledge and experience with our new foremen, engineers, and managers. I take pride in seeing them grow and succeed in their careers.

J. F. White Contracting Co. has a long history of successfully completing landmark infrastructure projects in the Boston area and has a broad range of construction capabilities. What types and sizes of infrastructure projects does the company prefer to focus on, and are there any particular public agencies that the company historically works for? continued on page 33

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Under the Hard Hat continued from page 31 J. F. White is a multi-disciplined contractor, with strengths in heavy/civil, design/ build, electrical, mechanical, and deep foundation systems. We bring engineered solutions to complex projects of all types and sizes, whether public or private. Featured projects include MassDOT North Washington Street Bridge Replacement, Roadway, Ceiling, Arch, and Wall Reconstruction Sumner Tunnel, Fenway Center Phase II Foundations and Deck, and Design-Build construction such as the Fore River Bridge Replacement and Longfellow Bridge Rehabilitation.

We have good relationships with, and have completed hundreds of projects for all the major public agencies in Massachusetts. With many of the larger dollar projects coming through MassDOT and MBTA, we may typically be doing more volume with those agencies.

Our Mechanical and Electrical Divisions are growing each year and we have performed a long list of major projects for the MWRA, Logan

JULY, 2023

Airport, MBTA and for many of the colleges and hospitals in the area.

JFW’s reputation for Deep Foundation and Earth Support Projects is second to none. Our proven expertise has expanded our list of private clients and we have completed some of the most complicated excavations in Boston (and beyond). Our resume includes underground parking garages, foundations and pile support systems for some of the largest buildings in Boston, as well as subway stations.

J. F. White Contracting Co. has often participated in joint venturing opportunities. Did the company participate in any joint ventures in 2022, and how do you see the New England heavy civil market looking forward in 2023-2024 for such opportunities?

Over the past several years JFW has joint ventured with the likes of Skanska Civil and Kiewit Corporation continued on page 35

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Under the Hard Hat continued from page 33 on our Fore River Bridge Project, Longfellow Bridge Project, and Fast 14 Bridge Replacement Project.

As you are aware the recent infrastructure bill(s) will funnel billions of dollars to states and local governments to upgrade outdated roads, bridges, transit systems, utilities, and more. It will be a tremendous opportunity for the state and local agencies, contractors, design firms, and vendors to prosper. I look forward to being a part of it.

What do you see as the greatest challenge for infrastructure contractors as we reach the midpoint of the 2023 construction season?

People, integrity, and excellence are at the core of who we are, and the future success of J. F. White will center around those basic values. I think the biggest challenge J. F. White, as well as other contractors in this industry are facing is maintaining the

well-being of our people and workforce. With stress and mental health issues increasing across all industries, it is more important than ever that supervisors develop closer relationships with their workers so they can recognize and assist an employee having a personal problem that they may be carrying into work with them.

The ambitious schedules required by some public and private owners can make it difficult to manage your workload, maintain a good worklife balance, and attract the next generation of management and craft to the industry. While the recent infrastructure bill(s) are exciting, they will likely result in more accelerated construction techniques, which require long term surge work with around the clock work shifts, off peak work hours, and weekend outages. Such techniques minimize the impact to the traveling public, however present significant challenges to the contractors and to their workforce at every level.

Across JFW projects we also see increasing dif-

continued on page 37

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Under the Hard Hat continued from page 35 ficulty and rising costs in disposing of surplus excavated soils. There is a shrinking landfill capacity in Massachusetts that needs to be addressed by our public agencies and elected officials before trucking and disposal costs make some projects not viable.

How long has J. F. White Contracting Co. been a UCANE member, and why did you decide to accept the offer to serve on UCANE’s Board of Directors?

J. F. White has been a member of UCANE for 45 years. I was asked to serve on the UCANE Board of Directors this year. I think it is important to play an active role in the construction industry, on the jobsite and off. It has been an excellent opportunity to network and learn about some of the construction legislation behind it all. With over 250 members at UCANE, the knowledge and resources are endless and I am honored to serve as a board member. n

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J. F. White Contracting Company Approaches its 100th Anniversary

Since its founding in 1924, J. F. White Contracting Company has served both the public construction market and private owners and developers with a multi-disciplined approach to general contracting. The history of the company is a legacy of simple beginnings, hard work, strong family values, and integrity. Private owners, construction managers, design engineers, and specialty project consultants have benefitted from the professionalism of J. F. White’s project teams and the company’s ability to participate as stakeholders in the success of the project, for nearly 100 years.

I

Company Beginnings

t did not take long for the company’s founder, Joseph F. White, Sr., to gain recognition within the Boston heavy/civil construction market as a bold competitor with a strong work ethic and business savvy. Early projects focused mostly on roadwork in the downtown Boston area, but it didn’t take Joe White long to see there was also demand in the city for contractors that could perform excavation for deep and complex building foundations. The company soon found itself working with large private owners constructing the foundations to some of Boston’s most well-known buildings including the Statler Hotel and Office Building, the Sears Building, and Harvard Business School. By the late 1920s business was booming and Joe White’s billings and his equipment fleet, were growing at a rapid pace.

The early company success was nearly turned into disaster when the Great Depression hit in 1929.

Suddenly banks were calling in loans, credit was almost unheard of, and new buildings and new projects were being postponed or scrapped. In order to keep the business going and his employees working, Joe

38

White again showed his business skills by putting his personal money back into the J. F. White Co. and at the same time creating another business called White Fuel Corporation, where he began hauling coal and fuel oils in the Boston area. Joe’s quick reaction allowed both companies to survive what would turn out to be a 10-year recession.

By 1939 the recession had ended, J. F. White Contracting Company was restoring some momentum, and Joe had three sons about to join the business. Things were finally looking up again for the first-generation family business. But alas, World War II became America’s problem on December 7, 1941 and Joe’s three sons went to war. It would not be until 1945 that the boys returned to give Joe some much-needed help and to transition the company into the second generation.

The Second Generation: Tom, Joe, Jr., and John White In the postwar economy, public agencies and municipalities emerged as key players providing concontinued on page 39

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JULY, 2023

J. F. White Contracting Co.

continued from page 38

struction opportunities. Principal among these at the time was the (Massachusetts) Metropolitan District Commission, or MDC, the umbrella organization that awarded construction contracts for improvements to the state's water and sewer systems, roads, and recreational facilities.

Starting with a modest job cutting ski trails and building a new ski tow at the MDC Blue Hills Reservation, J. F. White’s success with MDC projects continued. In 1950, the company was low bidder on what is today known as Storrow Drive. In the 60s, with the Interstate Highway System a national funding priority, J. F. White was ready and able. When the Clean Water Act brought treatment plants and interceptor Kevin Lampron, President pipeline projects to New England in the 70s and 80’s, J. F. White Contracting Co. White was in the forefront building multiple sewer treatment plants and installing sewer lines and river Third Generation and Beyond crossings across the region with some of the largest excavators in New England.

In 1997, Peter White assumed the leadership of the family business. Surrounded by some of the But it may have been the Charles River Dam best talent in the business Peter and the company project in 1980 that transformed J. F. White from continued performing complex and high-profile work a New England road builder and excavating conthroughout New England and New York. The compatractor, to a competent and well-recognized heavy/ ny formed its own in-house Electrical and Mechanicivil contractor. Multiple bridges and ever-larger cal Divisions. By the early 2000s joint ventures and projects followed in waves: The Ted Williams TunDesign Build jobs pushed the company to annual revnel (1992-95); the Deer Island Wastewater Treatenues approaching $100 million. ment Facility (1995-99) – a vital component of the cleanup of Boston Harbor – and finally several maThe J. F. White name continued to be seen on jor segments of the $14 billion Central Artery Projlandmark projects in the area including the Springect (1995-2004) that depressed I-93 below the City field Viaduct, the Cambridge sitework package for of Boston.

Novartis Pharmaceutical, multiple MBTA station upcontinued on page 41 Along the way, the J. F. White second generation continued to impress engineers, owners, agencies, and fellow contractors alike by taking on rail projects, designbuild projects, more complex foundation and underground parking garage jobs in the city, joint venturing on major infrastructure projects in New York, and even serving as General Contractor for the first home of the New England Patriots, Shaeffer Stadium.

The company had become one of the most recognized contractors in the New England area and its then President Tom White was one of the most prolific charitable donors in Boston History.

Boston/Cambridge - Longfellow Bridge

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J. F. White Contracting Co.

continued from page 39

grades, Electrical and Mechanical upgrades at many Boston area colleges and hospitals, the “Fast 14” Bridge project for MassDOT, as well as the restoration of Boston’s iconic Longfellow Bridge.

In 2014, Dragados USA purchased the J. F. White Contracting Company. With 35 year employee Kevin Lampron, Jr. serving as President, the company is reaching new heights in both revenues and reputation. Their fleet of equipment has never been larger.

They remain one of the most versatile and dependable heavy civil contractors in New England, working in both public and private sectors. Their Electrical and Mechanical Divisions compete for work at the highest and most complex levels.

ects of all sizes. They also bring superior management and skilled craftsmen to every job. They seek to provide a collaborative working environment in which all parties share equally in the success of the project. Safety, quality, and schedule are bedrock elements of the planning and execution of their work, all of which are directly proportional to ultimate profitability.

A Dedicated UCANE Member

Today’s J. F. White leadership team brings engineered solutions to challenging construction proj-

J. F. White Contracting Company joined the Utility Contractors Association of New England (UCANE) in 1978 and has been an active and supporting member of UCANE for 45 years. The White family and various officers of their company have had a presence on the Board of Directors in many of those years. The tradition continues with JFW’s Justin Goodheart (General Superintendent) being elected to the UCANE Board by his industry peers in 2023.

Deep foundation support at Novartis Campus, Cambridge, MA

I-93 and Massachusetts Avenue Interchange, Boston, MA

We are extremely proud to count J. F. White Contracting Company as a UCANE member. Being associated with such a well-respected firm and generous family has helped to elevate the stature of UCANE. We thank the White family for their many contributions to both UCANE and to our industry at-large. We wish the firm continued success as it approaches it’s 100 year milestone and adds more “Landmark” projects to its already impressive resume. n

JULY, 2023

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J. F. White Contracting Company Tackles Complex Foundation and Deck for “Air Rights” Parcel 7 Project Fenway Center Phase 2 Being Built Above Massachusetts Turnpike in Boston Editor’s Note: This Article is a continuation of the “Air Rights Projects” article printed in the June 2023 issue of Construction Outlook magazine.

A Tale of Two Projects The demand for first class office space, laboratory space, and retail space in Boston has been flirting with all-time highs over the last several years. That is comforting news to the investors in two “Air-Rights Projects” that, after more than 10 years of design and permitting procedures, have broken ground in the City over the past two years. Both of these massive projects will be built on relatively small footprints, (approximately 2 acres) above and adjacent to both the Massachusetts Turnpike (Route I-90) and the MBTA Commuter rail.

These projects will involve utilization of vertical “Air Rights” above the turnpike roadway and the railroad tracks and will be made available by the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT). Both projects will produce new high-rise buildings on the Boston skyline and will serve to connect neighborhoods within the city that were separated by the construction of the Massachusetts Turnpike over 60 years ago.

Known as Parcel 12 and Parcel 7, these projects are daunting in their scope, complexity, and risk with each project representing an investment approaching $1 billion. They are the first projects to utilize the “Air Rights’’ concept above the turnpike since Copley Plaza did the same 40 years ago.

They are being moved forward by two of the most experienced and respected developers in the Boston Area.

Parcel 7 – Fenway Center This article will focus on Parcel 7, also known as the Fenway Center Project. The Developers of the Fenway Center mega-project are IQHQ, a Real Estate Investment firm with offices in Boston and San Diego, and Merdith Management, a Real Estate Developer and Property Manager based in Beverly, MA. Merideth’s second generation owner John Rosenthal has developed many prime properties in the Boston area and is one of the largest

42

J.F. White’s Fenway Project Supervisors (L-R) Justin Goodheart (General Superintendent), Luis Enes (Night Site Superintendent), and Matt DiMartino (Day Site Superintendent). property managers in Massachusetts.

Fenway Center is being developed in two Phases.

Phase 1 was a more conventional development of midrise buildings built on land adjacent to the turnpike and to historic Fenway Park. Approved plans call for 312 residential units and 37,000 square feet of retail space across two buildings and parking lot construction. Phase 1 is substantially complete with residents moving into the units and final fit outs being done on some of the retail space.

Phase 2 is the most challenging portion of the Fenway Center project. It is anything but conventional and will encompass the entire area above I-90 between the Brookline Avenue Bridge and the Beacon Street Bridge.

That is a footprint of nearly 90,000 square feet above which will be constructed a 22-story and a 12-story building and a parking garage. The finished project will create over one million square feet of office, laboratory, and retail space.

“BUY FROM THE ADVERTISERS IN CONSTRUCTION OUTLOOK”

JULY, 2023

For the construction of Fenway Phase 2, the developers chose to divide the project into two components and select a CM/GC for each component. For the very complex Foundation Support and Deck Package, with an estimated value of $200 Million, the developers chose UCANE Member and Framingham based J.F. White Contracting Co. (JFW). The vertical construction component of the project, to be erected on the JFW constructed “ 2-acre canopy” to be built over the Turnpike, will be handled by John Moriarty and Associates, Inc. from Winchester, MA.

Fenway Phase 2 – Foundation and Deck Package J. F. White Contracting broke ground on Phase 2 in June 2021. The project is directly adjacent to the Lansdowne Commuter Rail Station, as well as busy Kenmore Square, and in the shadow of Boston’s historic Fenway Park, home to the Boston Red Sox. The scope of work includes: • Demolition of the existing Brookline Avenue utility bridge.

• Partial demolition and reconstruction of Brookline Ave. and Beacon St. bridges over I-90.

• Installation of support of excavation systems to enable foundation construction directly adjacent to I-90 and the MBTA Commuter Rail tracks at Lansdowne Station.

• Installation of driven steel H-piles and drilled minipiles through Boston’s blue clay to bedrock.

• Piles to be driven and drilled between the Beacon Street Bridge and Brookline Avenue Bridge: 1. Between East-bound (Inbound) lanes of the Turnpike and the adjacent MBTA Tracks 2. Within the median strip between Eastbound and Westbound Turnpike lanes 3. Between West-bound (outbound) lanes of the Turnpike and adjacent buildings • Construction of cast-in-place concrete pile caps with heavy rebar mats for deck foundations.

• Erection of 64 large structural steel support columns rising 20 feet above the roadway including a framework of steel headers, girders, and 84 each heavy I- beams spanning the roadways.

• Setting of 90,000 square feet of precast concrete planks for the deck structure. continued on page 44

JULY, 2023

Multiple pile driving operations between in-bound I-90 and Lansdown MBTA Station (Photo Courtesy of GTR Engineering)

Map of Parcel 7

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43

JFW Fenway Project continued from page 43 •

Reinforced concrete walls built between the steel support columns • Placement of 1500 cubic yards of heavily reinforced concrete mat on top of the decking, upon which two high-rise buildings will be built by others.

• Installation of temporary and permanent lighting for I-90.

• Full depth paving, and milling & overlay of I-90.

• Maintain vehicular traffic and MBTA Commuter rail schedule during all construction operations.

• Maintain traffic signage and controls on I-90, Beacon Street, Brookline Ave., and adjacent streets throughout the three year contract duration.

The project schedule for the Foundation and Deck Package required multiple work shifts and some weekend work. The number of trades persons building this project on the ground every day can vary between 50 and 100 depending on the specific work activity. To manage this unique project J.F. White assigned Paul McDonald as the lead Project Manager. Between office and field engineers, surveyors, assistant project managers, and an on-site office staff, JFW has assembled a talented and busy 15 person management team to run the Fenway Center Phase 2 project. Nineteen year veteran Justin Goodheart is the JFW on-site General Superintendent, with Luis Enes, Night Supt., Matt DiMartino, Day Superintendent, and Tom McNally as Lead Safety Supervisor.

According to General Superintendent Goodheart the most complicated part of the project was the limited space allowed for the heavy construction work. “We could only reduce the turnpike traffic by a single lane in each direction,” says Goodheart.” Driving 220 foot H-piles requires large cranes and vibratory hammers. Operating this type of equipment within the narrow work zones is a challenge every day.”

With no laydown space available within the project site, an offsite staging area was required.

Almost all materials provided by suppliers that would be incorporated in the project needed to be off-loaded and temporarily stored at the staging area located 1.5 miles offsite. When the site crews were ready, the materials would then be reloaded onto trailers, tied down, and transported to the site for installation. Most deliveries to the site were done at night during low traffic flows. Red Sox baseball games, day or night, required special accommodations by the JFW crews, as 38,000 fans descended on the adjacent ballpark. continued on page 45

44

J. F. White’s Linkbelt 248 crawler crane (200 ton) and Manitiwoc 999 250 ton crane driving steel foundation H-Piles in Mass. Turnpike median

Center pile cap foundations in the median of Mass. Pike. Rebar in place and ready for concrete.

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JULY, 2023

JFW Fenway Project continued from page 44

“First Up” – Pilings In conjunction with the owner’s engineering consultants LeMessurier and Haley and Aldrich, J.F. White engaged GTR Engineering out of North Chelmsford, MA, to provide project-wide geotechnical and structural design services including temporary earth support design, trestle design, drilled micro-pile design, dynamic pile testing and geotechnical instrumentation services.

Design ultimately called for piles to be driven or drilled to refusal at bedrock located over 200 feet below grade.

JFW crews drove all 544 of the steel H-piles. Lengths ranged from 210’ to 270’ for a total of 22 vertical miles of pile driving. Phoenix Foundation Company of Uxbridge, MA was subcontracted by JFW to install the micro-piles consisting of 10-inch diameter steel casings drilled down to bedrock and filled with rebar and high strength concrete. The specialty contractor drilled in 261 micro-piles for a total of 11 vertical miles. Adding the two types of piles, the small footprint comprising Parcel 7 required an amazing 33 vertical miles of piles to support the load of the buildings that will be built above the Turnpike.

S&F Concrete from Hudson, MA handled the formwork and concrete placement with many of the pours scheduled at night to avoid concrete trucks from being delayed

by Turnpike traffic.

The heavy rebar placement and erection of the steel support columns and steel framing system was assigned to Pembroke, MA based subcontractor J.F. Stearns Co. The massive girders and I-Beams spanning the eight lanes of the Turnpike were fabricated by Cives Steel’s manufacturing facility in Augusta, Maine.

90,000 square feet of precast/prestressed concrete panels are currently being manufactured by J. P. Carrera & Sons at their plant in Middlebury, Vermont. They will be continued on page 47

Concrete and Steel “On Deck” On top of the piles came the reinforced concrete pile caps and beams to distribute the building loads evenly.

Steel erection cranes idle during the day, steel erection takes place at night with I-90 lane closures

Phoenix Foundation Co. installed 11 (vertical) miles of micro-piles

JULY, 2023

First of many massive steel beams being installed over I-90 roadway. This girder is constructed of 4-inch thick plate material, weighs approximately 64 tons and is 61 feet

“BUY FROM THE ADVERTISERS IN CONSTRUCTION OUTLOOK”

45

JFW Fenway Project continued from page 45 installed on top of the steel framing to create a continuous canopy above I-90 between the existing Beacon St. and Brookline Avenue Bridges, a distance of 650 feet. Approximately 525 panels averaging six ton apiece will be rigged and set

by JFW cranes and crews over the next several months. Most of that work will be done at night due to traffic and safety concerns with all panels expected to be in place by October, 2023.

Intense Safety Program Needless to say, these “Air Rights” projects requiring working multiple shifts in a congested city, and around and above active highways and operating railways, involve higher risks than a typical construction project that might be being built only during daylight hours on a quiet, fenced-in construction site.

Development of the site-specific safety plan was no simple matter but was put together by a team of safety experts from within JFW’s in-house safety department, their insurers, and outside safety consultant OHS continued on page 49

60,000 feet of 9-inch steel pipe required for mini-pile support system – 262 piles averaging 230 feet – 55 trailers of steel pipe staged at offsite storage yard

Mini-pile operation north side (I-90 WB) of site with recirculation tanks for drilling spoils

JULY, 2023

“BUY FROM THE ADVERTISERS IN CONSTRUCTION OUTLOOK”

47

JFW Fenway Project continued from page 47 Training & Consulting of Brighton, MA (also a UCANE member). It is a “live” document with modifications and updates being made as the project advances.

Safety meetings with project team members, including subs, are a minimum of weekly to discuss upcoming work and crew details, shifts in work locations, heavy equipment movement, material deliveries, rigging procedures, changes in traffic controls, etc. Tom McNally is the lead Safety Supervisor for JFW on the Fenway Center Project and leads a team where safety is everyone’s job.

As of this writing, and with the foundation and deck project at 65% complete, the project team has earned welldeserved boasting rights with lost-time injury rates substantially below the industry average.

Project Schedule Continuing the steel framework is the immediate focus, with the decking panels scheduled to begin in July 2023.

Activity on the vertical component of the project is expected to begin in October 2023, with JFW and John Moriarty & Associates sharing the site for several months. Subsequently, JFW is scheduled to wrap up with the fireproofing, electrical, and paving portions of its deck and foundation project by Spring 2024. Developers IQHQ and Merideth Management are actively negotiating leasing opportunities for space within this bold undertaking, which is sure to be a convenient location and an impressive addition to the Boston skyline. n

UCANE Member Companies working with J. F. White on the Fenway Project •

ATS Equipment, Inc.

•

Badger Daylighting

•

GeoEngineers

•

Lockwood Remediation Technologies

•

S.M. Lorusso & Sons, Inc.

•

MiltonCAT

•

Milton Rents

•

OHS Training & Consulting, Inc.

•

Scituate Concrete Products

•

C.N. Wood Company, Inc.

•

United Rentals Trench Safety

•

U.S. Pipe

•

United Concrete Products

4’x4’ steel box columns in place to receive plate girder beams crossing over thr Mass. Pike that will support the 2-acre deck on which the $1 billion Fenway Center project will be built.

Photo by Justin Nardella courtesy of IQHQ

JULY, 2023

“BUY FROM THE ADVERTISERS IN CONSTRUCTION OUTLOOK”

49

SITECH NORTHEAST

GRADE CONTROL COMPACTION CONTROL DRILLING/PILING/SHEETING POSITIONING SURVEY/LAYOUT TOOLS PRODUCT TRAINING DRONE SERVICES SITE POSITIONING PAVING CONTROL SOFTWARE SOLUTIONS COMPONENT REPAIR TECHNOLOGY RENTAL

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“BUY FROM THE ADVERTISERS IN CONSTRUCTION OUTLOOK”

OCTOBER, 2017

Patrick W. Saltmarsh Tim Hunt, CHST Dir. of Envt’l, Safety Health and Safety Corporate Director W. J. L. Derenzo French Excavating Corp.

Companies

Understanding Heat Stress in Construction: OSHA's Requirements for Worker Safety Working in the construction industry often involves exposure to various occupational hazards, and one of the significant challenges construction workers face is heat stress. Heat stress occurs when the body's natural cooling mechanisms cannot dissipate heat effectively, leading to potentially dangerous health conditions. Recognizing the importance of safeguarding worker well-being, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has established requirements and guidelines to prevent and mitigate heat-related illnesses in the construction sector.

H

eat stress is a condition that arises when the body's core temperature rises above its normal range (around 98.6°F) due to excessive heat exposure. Construction workers are particularly vulnerable to heat stress due to the physical demands of their work, prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, and the presence of reflective surfaces and equipment that radiate heat.

OSHA's Requirements for Heat Stress Prevention: 1. Implementing a Heat Illness Prevention Program: OSHA mandates that construction companies develop and implement a comprehensive heat illness prevention program. This program should include training for workers and supervisors, emphasizing recognizing, preventing, and treating heatrelated illnesses.

2. Providing Adequate Water and Rest Breaks: Employers must ensure that potable JULY, 2023

water is readily available for workers and encourage them to drink water frequently. Additionally, employers must provide rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas to allow workers to cool down and recover from heat stress.

3. Acclimatization: OSHA stresses the importance of gradually acclimatizing workers to hot working conditions. New or returning workers should have a period of adjustment to build up their tolerance to heat. This may continued on page 53

“BUY FROM THE ADVERTISERS IN CONSTRUCTION OUTLOOK”

51

978.658.5300

900 Salem Street - Wilmington, Ma. www.beneventocompanies.com

Asphalt

JUNE, 2023 52

Concrete

Aggregates

Recycling

“BUY FROM“BUY THE FROM ADVERTISERS THE ADVERTISERS IN CONSTRUCTION IN CONSTRUCTION OUTLOOK”OUTLOOK”

JULY, 2023 55

Safety Corner continued from page 51

ing conditions and protect their workforce from the dangers of heat stress.

involve limiting the duration and intensity of It is essential for construction comwork during the initial days or weeks. panies to understand and comply with 4. Engineering Controls: Employers must implement engineering controls to reduce heat OSHA's requirements and to go above exposure. This can include using ventilation, and beyond by fostering a culture of shading, or air conditioning to create more safety. By prioritizing heat stress preexcellent work areas. Employers should also vention measures, employers can consider modifying work schedules to avoid mitigate the risks associated with the hottest parts of the day. heat exposure, reduce the likelihood 5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): of heat-related illnesses, and promote OSHA advises using appropriate personal protective equipment to mitigate heat stress. a Boston healthier and more productive work Area This may include lightweight, breathable clothLocations environment for their employees. n ing, wide-brimmed hats, and 2 Dexter Street sunscreen to protect workEverett, MA 02149 ers from direct sun exposure.

Boston Area Boston Area Employers should also conLocations Locations 431 Second Street sider providing cooling vests Everett, MA 02149 or other cooling devices 2 Dexter Street 2 Dexter Street

Everett, MA 02149 Everett, MA 02149 where feasible.

6. Monitoring and Training: 431 Second Street 431 Second Street Regular monitoring of weathEverett, MA 02149 Everett, MA 02149 er conditions and heat indexBOSTON AREA LOCATIONS

100 Fremont Street es are crucial to assessing 2 Dexter Street 431 Second Street Worcester, MA 01603 heat stress risk levels. OSHA Everett, MA 02149 Everett, MA 02149 requires employers to train workers and supervisors on the signs and symptoms of heat-related illnesses, emergency response procedures, and the importance of early intervention.

Heat stress is a severe concern in the construction Minichiello Bros./Scrap-It, Inc., Minichiello Bros./Scrap-It, Inc. industry, jeopardizing worker Serves over 2500 customers a week and is one of New England’s largest customers a week and is one New England's largest buyers, safety and productivity.Serves OS- over 2500 buyers, sellers, and processors of scrap metal.

Forour overgoal 60 years our goal sellers and processors of scrap metal.

For over 60 years has remained HA's requirements play a vital remained the same - to in provide the best along prices in thetop industry along with the same - tohas provide the best prices the industry with notch role in ensuring the well-being top notch service!

Fred Rogers at 617-595-5505 customer service!

Callcustomer Fred Rogers at Call 617-595-5505 Minichiello Bros./Scrap-It, Inc., of construction workers by esMinichiello Bros./Scrap-It, Inc., tablishing guidelines for heat Serves over 2500 customers a week and is one New England's largest buyers,

stress prevention. Bysellers impleand processors of scrap metal.

For overa60week years ourisgoal Serves over 2500 customers and onehas Newremained England's largest buyers menting heat illness prevention the same - to provide the best in theof industry along with notch sellers and prices processors scrap metal.

Fortop over 60 years our goal has remain customer service! the Callsame Fred -Rogers at 617-595-5505 programs, providing adequate to provide the best prices in the industry along with top notch

customer service!

Call Fred Rogers at 617-595-5505 water and rest breaks, accli matizing workers, employing engineering controls, supplying Turn your metal into money today! appropriate PPE, and offering Turn your metal into money today! training and monitoring, emMinichiello Bros. Inc./Scrap-It Inc. Minichiello Bros. Inc.,/Scrap-It Inc. ployers can create safer work JULY, 2023

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Turn your metal into money today!

53

Massachusetts Water Resources Authority

पानी

水

ውሃ

पानी

पानी

MASSACHUSETTS WATER RESOURCES AUTHORITY 2022 DRINKING WATER TEST RESULTS

水

水 ውሃ

ውሃ

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ውሃ

Massachusetts

The Water Resources Authority has begun mailing its Annual Water Quality Report to every household in its service area.

“MWRA takes hundreds of thousands of tests each year and for 2022, we again met every federal and state drinking water standard, said MWRA Executive Director, Fred Laskey. “PFAS - or ‘forever chemicals’ – are present in some drinking water. Because our source water is so well protected, our water meets the current state, and recently proposed federal, standards with levels so low they cannot be quantified. We have great confidence in the water we deliver to the homes and businesses in our service area, and we want our customers to have that same confidence.”

MWRA also continues to take actions 54

to reduce the risk of lead in drinking wa-

ter. Since 2016, MWRA has provided $34 million in zero-interest loans to 14 communities to be used for full lead service line removals.

The report is distributed to over 850,000 homes in the MWRA service area as required under the federal Safe Drinking Water Act. Community-specific inserts also provide information about municipal water systems in the MWRA service area.

The reports, including a Spanish language version, are available on-line and can be translated into several languages.

Larger-print versions are available upon request.

For more information, please visit MWRA’s website at www.mwra.com or call 617-242-5323.

“BUY FROM THE ADVERTISERS IN CONSTRUCTION OUTLOOK”

JULY, 2023

Dear Customer, No matter how you say it, water is essential. And you can be sure that the safety of your drinking water is the top priority for the women and men of the MWRA.

MWRA BOARD OF DIRECTORS Rebecca Tepper, Chair Andrew Pappastergion, Vice Chair Brian Peña, Secretary Paul E. Flanagan Joseph C. Foti Louis M. Taverna

This report provides you with the results of our annual drinking water testing for 2022.

We take hundreds of thousands of tests each year to ensure that your water is safe and our state-of-the-art surveillance system monitors your water every step of the way. Once again, every federal and state standard was met and the quality of your drinking water is excellent.

Every day, we see news stories about PFAS—or ‘forever chemicals’—in drinking water.

Because our source water is so well protected, our water meets the current state, and recently proposed federal standards with levels so low they cannot be quantified.

We also continue to take actions to reduce the risk of lead in drinking water. System-wide, we remain below the Lead Action Level. Since 2016, we have provided $34 million in zero-interest loans to 14 communities for full lead service line removals. Please read your community’s letter on page 67 7 for more information on your local water system, and consider replacing your lead service line if your home has one.

Last summer, our region experienced a significant drought. Thanks to all of our customers’ efforts to use water wisely, MWRA’s reservoirs remained at normal operating levels. It is important that we always conserve water wherever possible. As stewards of these reservoirs, we know how precious a resource we have and we cannot afford to waste it.

Henry F. Vitale

I hope you will take a moment to read this report. We want you to have the same confidence in the water we deliver to your homes and businesses as we do. Please contact us if you have any questions or comments about your water quality, or any of MWRA’s programs.

John J. Walsh

Sincerely,

Patrick J. Walsh Rev. Mariama White-Hammond Jennifer L. Wolowicz

Frederick A. Laskey Executive Director For more information on MWRA and its Board of Directors, visit www.mwra.com

MWRA Water System

continued on page 57

JULY, 2023

“BUY FROM THE ADVERTISERS IN CONSTRUCTION OUTLOOK”

1

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JULY, 2023

MWRA continued from page 55

AllAll The Way From Quabbin, ToTo AllAll OfOf UsUs The Way From Quabbin, Massachusetts experienced a significant droughtdrought other potential pathogens, from human animal the reservoir water were well within Massachusetts experienced a significant other potential pathogens, from and human and animal test results testfor results for the reservoir water were well within during 2022, about percent less precipitation activity activity that canthat cause federal treatment standards. duringwith 2022, with30about 30 percent less precipitation canillness. causeTesting illness. results Testingshow results show state and state and testing federal and testing and treatment standards. that few contaminants are found in the reservoir than normal.

Thanks to our customer’ s wise use Learn more about MWRA test results for waterborne that few contaminants are found in the reservoir than normal. Thanks to our customer’s wise use Learn more about MWRA test results for waterborne water, and those are few in very amounts well wellcontaminants of waterofduring drought and the and long-term and theirand potential health impacts at: water, andfew those are small in very small amounts waterthe during the drought the long-term contaminants their potential health impacts at: reduction in water use, MWRA’ s reservoirs stayed below EPA’ s standards. www.mwra.com. reduction in water use, MWRA’s reservoirs stayed below EPA’s standards. www.mwra.com. well within range throughout the wellnormal within operating normal operating range throughout the DCR work together to implement our year, andyear, no mandatory restrictions were needed.

MWRA and DCR work together to implement our and no mandatory restrictions were needed. MWRA and recognized watershed protection program.program.

This annual MWRA’sMWRA’s nationally nationally recognized watershed protection This water annualquality water report qualityillustrates report illustrates ongoingongoing efforts toefforts provide you withyou safewith water of Environmental Protection’ s to provide safeunder water underThe Department The Department of Environmental Protection’ s all conditions.

(MassDEP) Source Water report for the for the all conditions.

(MassDEP) SourceAssessment Water Assessment report QuabbinQuabbin and Wachusett Reservoirs commended and Wachusett Reservoirs commended MWRA our source MWRA works your community, the Department DCR and for MWRA for our water sourceprotection water protection MWRAwith works with your community, the DepartmentDCR and of Conservation and Recreation (DCR), and state report ourthat “watershed of Conservation and Recreation (DCR), and state plans. The plans.

Thestates reportthat states our “watershed and federal to provide and protect programs are veryare successful and greatly and regulators federal regulators to provide and your protect your protection protection programs very successful and greatly actual of contamination. ” MWRA” and drinkingdrinking water. From theFrom reservoirs surrounded by reduce therisk actual risk of contamination.

MWRA and water. the reservoirs surrounded by reduce the report to maintain forests and wetlands, throughthrough treatment and miles DCRthe follow therecommendations report recommendations to maintain forests and wetlands, treatment and miles DCR follow of pipelines, to your drinking water faucet, watershed areas and highand quality of pipelines, to your drinking waterMWRA’ faucet,sMWRA’s the pristine the pristine watershed areas high source quality source water.

For more information on our source water, laboratories conduct hundreds of thousands of tests water. For more information on our sourcegowater, go laboratories conduct hundreds of thousands of tests to: www.mwra.com/sourcewater.html. on your on water to: www.mwra.com/sourcewater.html. yourevery wateryear. every year.

The water yourand community provide provide to TheMWRA water and MWRA your community to Water: Tested FromFrom the Source Water: Tested the Source your home business starts with ourwith two our pristine yourorhome or business starts two pristine MWRA analyzes, treats and protects the quality MWRA analyzes, treats and protects the of quality of reservoirs in central Massachusetts—the Quabbin reservoirs in central Massachusetts—the Quabbin your water, with thewith watershed streams,streams, to yourstarting water, starting the watershed to Reservoir, 65 miles from Boston, and the Wachusett Reservoir, 65 miles from Boston, and the Wachusettthe billions gallons waterofinwater the reservoirs, to the of billions of of gallons in the reservoirs, to Reservoir, 35 miles from Boston.

Combined, these Reservoir, 35 miles from Boston. Combined, these hundreds of milesof ofmiles MWRA and thousands of hundreds of pipes MWRA pipes and thousands of two reservoirs provide provide an average of 200 million two reservoirs an average of 200 million miles ofmiles local of pipes, allpipes, the way to your home. local all the way to your home. gallons gallons of pure, of highly high quality pure,protected, highly protected, high quality water each day to 53 communities.

The Ware River water each day to 53 communities.

The Ware River A key, initial test for reservoir water quality A key, initial test for reservoir water isquality is providesprovides additional water when additional waterneeded. when needed. turbidity,turbidity, or cloudiness.

TurbidityTurbidity refers torefers the amount or cloudiness. to the amount Your Annual Water Quality Report Your Annual Water Quality Report of suspended particlesparticles in the water canand impair of suspended in theand water can impair This report provides consumers of MWRA The Quabbin and Wachusett watersheds—areas that This report provides consumers of MWRA The Quabbin and Wachusett watersheds—areas that water disinfection.

All waterAllmust bemust below 5below NTU 5 NTU water disinfection. water be water with important information on wateron water drain water the reservoirs—are naturallynaturally protected. water with important information draintowater to the reservoirs—are protected. (nephelometric turbidityturbidity units), and water onlycan only (nephelometric units), andcan water quality. quality.

MWRA also hasalso monthly water water More than 85% of the is covered with forests MWRA has monthly More than 85%land of the land is covered with forests be above 1 NTU if it does not interfere with effective be above 1 NTU if it does not interfere with effective quality reports, information on specific and wetlands, which filter thefilter rain the andrain snow quality reports, information on specific and wetlands, which andthat snow that disinfection.

In 2022, typical levels in the Wachusett disinfection. In 2022, typical levels in the Wachusett potential contaminants, water system enter theenter streams that flowthat to the This This Reservoir potential contaminants, water system the streams flowreservoirs. to the reservoirs. were 0.30 NTU, and even at even its highest Reservoir were 0.30 NTU, and at its highest updates,updates, and more www.mwra.com. water comes contact with soil,with rock, plants, andatmore at www.mwra.com. waterin comes in contact soil, rock,and plants, and level of 1.07 NTU forNTU one hour during aduring December level of 1.07 for one hour a December We welcome your questions at 617-242-5323 other material as it follows natural to the We welcome your questions at 617-242-5323 other material as it its follows its path natural path to the storm, disinfection met all requirements. storm, disinfection met all requirements. or Ask.MWRA@mwra.com. reservoirs.

This process helps tohelps cleantothe water, or Ask.MWRA@mwra.com. reservoirs.

This process clean thebut water, but it also can dissolve and carry very small amounts of it also can dissolve and carry very small amounts ofMWRA also tests water potential disease-causing MWRA also testsforwater for potential disease-causing materialmaterial into the into reservoir.

MineralsMinerals and rockand do rock not do notorganisms, the reservoir. including fecal coliform bacteria,bacteria, and organisms, including fecal coliform and typicallytypically cause problems in the water.

Water can also cause problems in the water. Water can also parasitesparasites such as such Giardia and Cryptosporidium, that as Giardia and Cryptosporidium, that transport contaminants, including bacteria,bacteria, viruses or transport contaminants, including viruses or can enter the water from animal or human waste.

All can enter the water from animal or human waste. All

MWRA Water Test Results 20222022 MWRA Water Test Results

EPA requires that MWRA test for test overfor 120over contaminants that may bemay in drinking water. water.

EPA requires that MWRA 120 contaminants that be in drinking MWRA MWRA found only those Allhere. of these below Contaminant Levels (MCL). found onlylisted thosehere. listed All oflevels thesewere levels wereEPA’s belowMaximum EPA’s Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCL).

Compound Compound

(We Found) (We Found) Range of (MCL) Highest Range of (MCLG)(MCLG) Units Units (MCL) Highest Detected Violation How It Gets inGets the Water Detected Detections Violation How It in the Water Level Allowed Ideal goal Level Allowed Detections Ideal goal Level-Average Level-Average

Barium Barium

ppm

ppm

2

2

0.009 0.009

0.008–0.010 0.008–0.010

2.00

0.05–3.50 0.05–3.504-MRDLG 4-MRDLG No

NoWater disinfectant Water disinfectant

2

2

No

mineralmineral in nature NoCommon Common in nature

Monochloramine Monochloramine ppm

ppm4-MRDL4-MRDL

FluorideFluoride

ppm

ppm

4

4

0.679 0.679

0.385–0.828 0.385–0.828

4

4

No

for dental NoAdditiveAdditive forhealth dental health

Nitrate^Nitrate^

ppm

ppm

10

10

0.55

0.55

0.032–0.55 0.032–0.55

10

10

No

deposition NoAtmospheric Atmospheric deposition

Nitrite^ Nitrite^

ppm

2.00

ppm

1

1

0.007 0.007

ND–0.007 ND–0.007

1

1

No

of waterofdisinfection NoByproduct Byproduct water disinfection

Total Trihalomethanes ppb Total Trihalomethanes

ppb

80

80

19.8

19.8

9.08–20.7 9.08–20.7

NS

NS

No

of waterofdisinfection NoByproduct Byproduct water disinfection

Haloacetic Acids-5Acids-5ppb Haloacetic

ppb

60

60

19.9

19.9

4.4–24.44.4–24.4

NS

NS

No

of waterofdisinfection NoByproduct Byproduct water disinfection

KEY: MCL=Maximum Contaminant Level. The highest of alevel contaminant allowed in water. in MCLs are set asare close to the MCLGs feasible theusing best the available technology.

KEY: MCL=Maximum Contaminant Level.

Thelevel highest of a contaminant allowed water.

MCLs set as close to the as MCLGs as using feasible best available technology.

MCLG=Maximum Contaminant Level Goal.

TheGoal. levelThe of contaminant in drinking water below is no known expected risk to health. forallow a margin MCLG=Maximum Contaminant Level level of contaminant in drinking waterwhich belowthere which there is noorknown or expected risk toMCLGs health. allow MCLGs for aof margin of safety. MRDL=Maximum ResidualResidual Disinfectant Level. The highest of alevel disinfectant allowed allowed in drinking water. There convincing evidenceevidence that addition of a disinfectant safety. MRDL=Maximum Disinfectant Level.

The level highest of a disinfectant in drinking water.is There is convincing that addition of a disinfectant is necessary for control microbial contaminants.

MRDLG=Maximum ResidualResidual Disinfectant Level Goal.

The levelThe of alevel drinking water disinfectant below which is there no is no is necessary for of control of microbial contaminants.

MRDLG=Maximum Disinfectant Level Goal. of a drinking water disinfectant belowthere which known orknown expected health risk.

MRDLGs do not reflect benefits of the use to control contamination. ppm=parts per million per billion or expected health risk. MRDLGs do notthe reflect the benefits of of thedisinfectants use of disinfectants tomicrobial control microbial contamination. ppm=parts perppb=parts million ppb=parts per billion NS=no standard ^=As required by DEP, the maximum result is reported, not the average.

NS=no standard ^=As required by DEP, the maximum result is reported, not the average.

continued on page 59

2

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MWRA continued from page 57

Forest To Faucet GreatGreat WaterWater FromFrom Forest To Faucet

Water Monitoring After Treatment Water Monitoring Treatment EPA andAfter state regulations require regular monitoring

EPA and state regulations monitoring of waterrequire qualityregular to evaluate the water you drink. of water quality to evaluate the waterhundreds you drink.of thousands of tests per MWRA conducts MWRA conducts hundreds of thousands of tests per year on over 120 contaminants.

A complete list is year on over 120 contaminants. complete list is The results of MWRA’s available on A www.mwra.com. available on www.mwra.com.

Thetests results of MWRA’ s water quality in 2022 are shown in the table on 67. water quality tests in 2022 in the onand safety of the page 2. are Theyshown confirm the table quality Sodium and Drinking Water Treatment Plant 2. They confirm the your quality and safetyand of the water community you receive from MWRA. and MWRA Sodium Drinking Water tests for sodium monthly, and the Treatment Plant Namesake Passes On page waterofyour community and you receive from MWRA. MWRA tests for sodium monthly, and38.1 themg/L (about 10 mg per highest level was Namesake Passes On served on the MWRA Board John J. Carroll highest level was 38.1 (about 10 mgwould per be considered to 8 oz.mg/L glass).

This level Building Redundancy for Reliability ohn J. Carroll served on the MWRA Board of from the Authority’s Directors as its Vice Chair oz. glass). This level be considered bewould Very Low Sodium by to the Food and Drug Building Redundancy Reliability Planning andfor environmental review for two8new irectors as its Viceinception Chair from in the 1985Authority’ until his sdeath in February bereliable Very Low Sodium by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Sodium in drinking water Planning review two of new tunnels north andfor south Boston to provide nception in 1985 until hisIndeath February 2023.

2005,inthe MWRA Board honored his and environmental (FDA).

Sodium inonly drinking water contributes a small fraction of a person’s tunnels of to Boston to provide service the entire regionreliable is underway. WeAdministration also 023. In 2005, the MWRA Board honored many contributions to his the MWRA mission by north and south contributes only a small a person’s overallfraction sodiumofintake (less than 5%). to the entirehave region is underway.

We also to rehabilitate major projects underway the many contributionsnaming to the MWRA mission by the new water treatment plantservice after him. have major projectsWeston underway to rehabilitate the 3, a 60-inchoverall Aqueduct Supply Main pipe insodium intake (less than 5%). aming the new water treatment plant after him.

Weston Aqueduct Supply 3, a 60-inch pipe in Weston,Main Waltham, Belmont, Arlington and Medford, Weston, Waltham, Belmont, and Medford, as well asArlington a 48-inch pipe in Stoneham and Woburn.

Treating Your Water as well as a 48-inchMaintaining pipe in Stoneham and and Woburn. the system adding redundancy Your Water Wins Awards eating YourMWRA’s WaterJohn J. Carroll Water TreatmentMaintaining Plant in the system and redundancy allows us adding to continue uninterrupted water delivery toWater Wins Your Awards The MWRA received an award from Mass DEP RA’s John J. Carroll Water Treatment in Marlborough providesPlant state-of-the-art treatment allows us to continue uninterrupted to of our system your community,water even delivery if sections Theneed MWRA received award fromperformance Mass DEP in 2022. foranoutstanding lborough provides treatment and state-of-the-art monitoring of your water. Our well trained your community, even if sections of our need See www.mwra.com inspection, repair or system rehabilitation. for outstanding performance in 2022. monitoring of your water. Our well trained and licensed operators add measured doses of repair orfor inspection, rehabilitation.

See www.mwra.com more information. licensed operators add measured treatment chemicals.doses of for more information. tment chemicals.

Your community is investing in reliability as well.

• Ozone, made from pure oxygen, disinfects thecommunity is MWRA Conservation, Climate Change, Your investing in reliability as well. loans to communities provides zero–interest Ozone, made from pure oxygen, water, killingdisinfects bacteria, the viruses and other organisms, Conservation, Climate Change, MWRA provides zero–interest to communities for pipelineloans rehabilitation and other water quality and Your Reservoirs water, killing bacteria,and viruses and other improves waterorganisms, clarity and taste. for pipeline rehabilitation and otherDuring water 2022, qualitywe loaned $29and improvements. million to Reservoirs Your To be sure that we can supply all the water you nd improves water clarity andlight taste.(UV), a more powerful form improvements.

During 2022, we loaned $29 million to 15 communities for pipeline projects.

• Ultraviolet of the To be sure that we can supply allwet the and water you need in both dry years, now and in the communities for pipeline projects.

Ultraviolet light (UV),natural a moredisinfection powerful form of the renders15pathogens of sunlight, need in both wet and dry years, andwith in the future, MWRAnow works the communities we atural disinfection of sunlight, renders pathogens non-infectious. future, MWRA works withto the communities we serve promote water conservation.

Efficient on-infectious. • Fluoride protects dental health. serve to promote water conservation. and wise use of ourEfficient water keeps it available and wise use of ourfor water keeps itFor available the future. information on water use, luoride protects dental health.chemistry is adjusted to reduce Fun Fact • The water for the future. For information on water reservoir levels and use, conservation, go to Fun Fact Did you know Quabbin means “great waters”? he water chemistry is adjusted to reduce corrosion of lead from home plumbing. reservoir levels andwww.mwra.com. conservation, go to Did you know Quabbin means “great waters”?

While the Nipmuc Native American name could orrosion of lead •from home plumbing.

Monochloramine (a compound of chlorine While the Nipmuc Native Americantoname be understood meancould that or “place of www.mwra.com. many Monochloramine (aand compound of chlorine ammonia), provides a mild and long-lasting be understood to mean that or know “placeitofmeans many great tasting water. waters, ” we nd ammonia), provides a mild to and long-lasting disinfectant protect the water as it travels waters,” we know it means great tasting water. isinfectant to protect the water travels through milesasofitpipes to your home. continued on page 613 hrough miles of pipes to your home.

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What We AllAll Need ToTo Know About Lead What We Need Know About Lead While there is no lead MWRA’ water is lead-free when it leaves used in plumbing components.

If your If your you drink.

While there is in noyour leadsource in yourwater, sourcelead water, lead materialsmaterials you drink.sMWRA’ s water is lead-free when it leaves used in plumbing components. can be found your home, from your Water mains made mostly iron, of iron, beenhas sitting several can you can our reservoirs. can beinfound in yourincluding home, including from your water has our reservoirs.

Waterare mains are madeofmostly water beenforsitting for hours, severalyou hours, plumbing.

Learn about health of lead, of lead, minimizeminimize and do not leadadd to the the potential for lead exposure by flushing plumbing.

Learnthe about theimpacts health impacts steel or concrete, andadd do not leadwater. to the water. the potential for lead exposure by flushingsteel or concrete, and howand to reduce to this toxic metal. enter your tapyour water from your service for 30 to 2 minutes before using how toexposure reduce exposure to this toxic metal. your tapyour can enter tap water from your line service line tapseconds for 30 seconds to 2 minutes before using Lead canLead that line connects your home the water main) water forwater drinking or cooking.

If you areIf concerned that connects yourtohome to the water main) for drinking or cooking. you are concerned (the line(the if it is made ofmade lead, lead solder in plumbing, or about lead in your mayyou wish to have if it is of lead, leadused solder used in plumbing, or about leadwater, in youryou water, may wish to have How Lead How Affects Lead Affects older brass faucets. your water tested. on lead in from some older brass faucets. your waterInformation tested. Information ondrinking lead in drinking from some HealthHealth and Development and Development water, testing and steps you can you takecan to take to water,methods, testing methods, and steps Lead affects and mayand cause Leadyoung affectschildren, young children, maydamage cause damage or wearing away of away lead-based materials, minimizeminimize exposureexposure is available from thefrom Safe the Drinking Corrosion, or wearing of lead-based materials, is available Safe DrinkingCorrosion, to the brain, slow growth development, and to the brain, slow and growth and development, and Water Hotline leadadd to tap if water sits for sits for 1-800-426-4791 or www.epa.gov/ leadwater, to tapespecially water, especially if water Water at Hotline at 1-800-426-4791 or www.epa.gov/ can addcan learninglearning and behavior problems.

Preventing lead and behavior problems. Preventing lead safewater/lead. a long time in the pipes before is used.it MWRA’ a long time in the pipesitbefore is used.sMWRA’s safewater/lead. exposureexposure is particularly important if a pregnant is particularly important if a pregnant water treatment helps limit the limit amount of lead inof lead in water treatment helps the amount woman or a childorlives in your apartment. woman a child liveshome in yourorhome or apartment. water.

1996, MWRA yourInwater.

In 1996,began MWRAadding begansodium adding sodium How Lead Your Water How Can LeadEnter Can Enter Your Water your Lead canLead alsocan impact health your entire alsothe impact theofhealth of your entire carbonate and carbon adjusttothe water’ s water’s carbonate and dioxide carbon to dioxide adjust the Lead in your home plumbing or a lead service line Lead in your home plumbing or a lead service line family. While lead poisoning frequently comes from family.

While lead poisoning frequently comes from capacity.capacity.

This treatment makes the pH and buffering This treatment makes the can contribute to elevated lead levels inlevels the water can contribute to elevated lead in the water pH and buffering exposureexposure to lead paint dust or chips, in drinking to lead paint dust orlead chips, lead in drinking water less corrosive and reduces leachingleaching of lead of lead water less corrosive and reduces water can alsocan contribute water also contribute into drinking water. Lead levels found tap water into drinking water.

Lead levelsinfound in tap water to total lead exposure. to total lead exposure. samplessamples have dropped by nearlyby90% since this have dropped nearly 90% since this PropertyProperty Line Line treatment change. change.

Learn more about in drinking treatment Learn morelead about lead in drinking water atwater www.mwra.com.

Important Lead Lead at www.mwra.com.

Important

Information Information From From EPA EPA

MWRA MeetsMeets MWRA Lead Standard in 2022 Lead Standard in 2022

If present, elevatedelevated levels levels If present, of lead can cause of lead canserious cause serious health problems, especially health problems, especially for pregnant women women for pregnant and young andchildren. young children.

Lead in drinking water water Lead in drinking Water Main Water Main comes primarily from from comes primarily materialsmaterials and components and components associated with service associated with service Water Service Water Line Service Line lines andlines home andplumbing. home plumbing.

MWRA isMWRA responsible for is responsible for Your water service connects Your waterline service line connects providing high quality providing high quality your home to the water main which your home to the water main which drinkingdrinking water, but cannot water, but cannot runs under your street. runs under your street. control the variety control theofvariety of

Under EPA andEPA MassDEP rules, MWRA yourand your Under and MassDEP rules,and MWRA local water department are required to test tap local water department are required to water test tap water each year.

Because we collect from homes each year. Because wesamples collect samples from homes with leadwith service or lead results lead lines service linessolder, or leadthe solder, the results do not reflect levels inlevels all homes.

EPAThe ruleEPA rule do notlead reflect lead in all The homes. requiresrequires that 9 out of 910out homes that of 10tested homes(90%) testedmust (90%) must have lead levels below Action of Level 15 parts have lead levelsthe below theLevel Action of 15 parts per billion per(ppb). billion (ppb).

This testing can provide on Thisprocess testing process can information provide information on whetherwhether lead is corroding and mixing thewith the lead is corroding andwith mixing drinkingdrinking water. It water. also provides communities and It also provides communities and you withyou information on how on to reduce in your with information how tolead reduce lead in your drinkingdrinking water. water.

Lead Lead & Copper Results, September 2022 2022 & Copper Results, September RangeRange 90% Value AL 90% Value

Nine outNine of 10out homes the MWRA of 10tested homesintested in the service MWRA service area were below ppb—well below the Action area were7.3 below 7.3 ppb—well below the Action sampling rounds over theover past the 19 years All sampling rounds past 19 years Ideal Goal #Homes Above Above AL/ AL/ Level. AllLevel.

Ideal Goal #Homes AL have been below EPA the Action have beenthe below EPALevel.

Action Level.

(MCLG) TestedTested (MCLG) #Homes #Homes

Lead (ppb) ND–121ND–121 7.3 Lead (ppb)

7.3 15

15

0

0

18/595 18/595

CopperCopper (ppb) (ppb) 3.2–2583.2–258 88.5

88.5 1300

1300 1300

1300

0/595 0/595

Only one community—Winthrop—was above above Only one community—Winthrop—was the leadthe Action September 2022. Your leadLevel ActioninLevel in September 2022. Your community letter onletter Pageon 7 will provide you withyou with community Page 7 will provide local results more information. local and results and more information.

Key: AL=Action Level - The concentration of a contaminant which, if which, exceeded, triggers treatment or other or other Key: AL=Action Level - The concentration of a contaminant if exceeded, triggers treatment requirements which a which water system follow. requirements a watermust system must follow.

90% Lead LevelsLevels in MWRA System of Served Communities (ppb) 90% Lead in MWRA of Served Communities (ppb)

System Fully

Fully

WhatWhat is An is Action Level?

An Action Level?

4

An Action the amount of lead that An Level ActionisLevel is the amount of lead that requiresrequires action to reduce exposure.

If your If your action to reduce exposure. home orhome school’ drinking water iswater aboveis above or sschool’ s drinking the leadthe Action steps steps lead Level, Actionadditional Level, additional to reduce lead may bemay required.

If more If more to reduce lead be required. than 10% of your community’ s samples than 10% of your community’ s samples were over theover leadthe Action were lead Level, Actionyour Level, your local water is takingisaction localdepartment water department takingto action to addressaddress the problem.

See page the problem.

See7. page 7.

continued on page 63

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MWRA continued from page 61

What All Can DoReduce To Reduce Lead What We We All Can Do To Lead

How to Test Your Drinking Water Lead Service Lines Reduce Your Exposure to Lead If you are concerned about lead piping in your A service line connects your home or buildingReduce to Remove Lead Pipingto Lead How to Test Your Drinking Water Lead Service Lines Your Exposure

home, contact yourpiping local water department about the water your mainhome in theor street.

If yours lead, Lead Piping If you are concerned about lead in your A service line connects building to is made of Remove • Find out if you have a lead service line. Learn testing yourwater drinking water. MWRA also maintains a can the main source of lead in your tap water. home, contact your local department about the water mainit in thebestreet.

If yours is made of lead, about replacement options from your local • Find out if you have a lead service line. Learn list of certified laboratories and sampling instructions Oldersource galvanized iron pipestap with lead connectors testing your drinking water. MWRA also maintains a t can be the main of lead in your water. wateroptions department. about replacement from your local www.mwra.com.

You mayinstructions also call MWRA at (“goosenecks”) canlead alsoconnectors release lead. Lead service list of certified at laboratories and sampling Older galvanized iron pipes with water department.

617-242-5323. be removed entirely to reduce lead in at www.mwra.com.

You may also call MWRA at (“goosenecks”)lines canshould also release lead. Lead service Other Measures for Lead Reduction drinking water.to reduce lead in 617-242-5323. ines should beyour removed entirely Other Measures• for AnyLead timeReduction water has not been used for more than your drinking water.

Lead Testing in Schools the used faucetfor used forthan drinking water or • Any time water6 hours, has notrun been more Replacing Lead Service Lines Children can consume most of their drinking Lead Testing in Schools cooking until after the water becomes cold. hours, run the faucet used for drinking water or Your local Lines water department can help find out if 6you Replacing Lead Service water at school daycare.

The plumbing inside Children can consume most ofortheir drinking cooking until• after the water becomes cold. have a lead service help in replacing Let water run before using it—fresh water is better Your local water department can line, helpand findprovide out if you some schoolsThe andplumbing childcareinside facilities can contain water at school or daycare. it. In some cases, an onsite may be needed. than stale.

Toit—fresh save water, fill is a pitcher fresh have a lead service line, and provide help incheck replacing • Let water run before using water better with some lead and contribute to lead exposure.

MWRA, in schools and childcare facilities can contain waterwater, and place it in thewith refrigerator use. t. In some cases, an onsite check may be needed. than stale. To save fill a pitcher fresh for future coordination MassDEP, provides no-cost lab lead and contribute to lead with exposure.

MWRA, in You can also check if your service line is made ofwater and place it in use the hot refrigerator for future use. for drinking analysis and technical • Never water from the faucet coordination with MassDEP, providesassistance no-cost labfor schools and lead by scratching near your You can also check if your servicethe linepipe is made of water meter day care assistance centers in MWRA communities.

This service cooking, making baby formula analysis and technical for schools and • Never use hotor water fromespecially the faucetwhen for drinking with a key or other metal object.

Lead pipes will ead by scratching the pipe near your water meter hasinbeen offered since 2016,This andservice nearly all MWRA or otherwhen food making for infants or young children.day care centers MWRA communities. or cooking, especially baby formula showmetal a dullobject. grey color, with a key or other Leadwhile pipescopper will pipes will not. communities To date, more than has been offered since 2016,have and participated. nearly all MWRA or other food• for infantsloose or young Remove lead children. solder and debris. Every few Forcolor, an online www.epa.gov/pyt. show a dull grey whilehow-to copperguide, pipesgo willtonot.

40,000 tests have To been completed in more than communities have participated. date, more than months, remove the aerator from each faucet and • Remove loose lead solder and debris. Every few For an online how-to guide, go to www.epa.gov/pyt.

560 been schools.

Results are available on the MassDEP 40,000 tests have completed in more than flush the pipes for 3 to 5 minutes.

MWRA Funding to Replace Lead Service Lines months, remove the aerator from each faucet and websiteare at:available www.mass.gov/dep (search for “lead in 560 schools. Results on the MassDEP flush the pipes forcareful 3 to 5 of minutes.

MWRA and itsLead Advisory Board offer zero-interest loans MWRA Funding to Replace Service Lines schools”). You may(search also contact your • Be places where you may find lead in at: www.mass.gov/dep website for “lead in local school or to customer communities for full lead service line MWRA and its Advisory Board offer zero-interest loans department for results. or nearwhere your home.

Paint, dust may You water schools”). may also contact your local school or • can Be careful of places you may findsoil, lead in and pottery replacement projects.

Each MWRA community to customer communities for full lead service line contain lead. theand Massachusetts continued on page 65 water department for results. or near your home.

Paint, soil,Call dust pottery may Department develop Each its own local community plan, and many replacement projects.

MWRA can communities of Public Health at 1-800-532-9571 or 1-800-424contain lead.

Call the Massachusetts Department have already stepscommunities to remove lead service lines. develop its own local plan, taken and many LEAD for information on lead and health impacts.

Sincesteps 2016,toMWRA haslead provided million to 14 of Public Health at 1-800-532-9571 or 1-800-424have already taken remove service$34 lines.

LEAD for information on lead and health impacts. communities to fully replace Since 2016, MWRA has provided $34 millionlead to 14service lines. To find out more, contact your local water department. communities to fully replace lead service lines. To find out more, contact your local water department.

Water Service Lines — Lead and Copper Water Service Lines — Lead and Copper

You can identify lead service line by carefully You can identify lead scratching service linewith by a key. carefully scratching with a key.

New copper service line.

New copper service line.

3 Ways to reduce lead in your water: 3 Ways to reduce lead in your water: line • Remove your lead service • Run your waterline before using • Remove your lead service • Usebefore a filterusing certified to remove lead • Run your water • Use a filter certified to remove lead

5 5

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MWRA continued from page 63

Information We All Need

Cross-Connection Information

A cross-connection is any temporary or permanent connection between a potable (drinking) water source and a non-potable source. Non-potable water or other sources can contaminate your drinking water if backflow occurs.

Sources could include: • Garden hoses • Boilers • Swimming pools • Irrigation systems or wells • Residential fire protection systems

Testing in Local Pipes

MWRA works with local water departments to sample and test 300-500 water samples each week for total coliform bacteria.

Total coliform bacteria can come from the intestines of warm blooded animals, or can be found in soil, plants, or other places. Most of the time, they are not harmful. However, their presence could signal that harmful bacteria from fecal waste may be there as well. If any water sample does test positive, we run a more specific test for E. coli, which is a bacteria found in human and animal fecal waste and may cause illness. If total coliform is detected in more than 5% of samples in a month, the water system is required to investigate the possible source and fix any identified problems. If your community was required to do an investigation, or found E. coli, it will be in the letter from your community on page 7.

Important Research for New Regulations

MWRA works with EPA and health research organizations to help define new national drinking water standards by collecting data on water contaminants that are not yet regulated.

Very few of these potential contaminants are found in MWRA water due to our source water protection efforts. Detailed information on testing for unregulated contaminants, as well as data on PFAS, disinfection byproducts, Giardia and Cryptosporidium, and other contaminants can be found at www.mwra.com.

MWRA Monitoring for PFAS

PFAS compounds, used since the 1940s for many purposes, from stain and waterproofing to firefighting, continue to be a concern.

Tests of MWRA water show only trace amounts of these compounds, too small to be quantified, and well below the state standard of 20 parts per trillion. MWRA results are also well below recently proposed EPA standards. See www.mwra.com for full details and all results.

Massachusetts DEP recommends the installation of backflow prevention devices for inside and outside hose connections to help protect the water in your home as well as the drinking water system in your town. For more information on cross-connections, please call 617-242-5323 or visit www.mwra.com.

EPA Information on Bottled Water and Tap Water

Drinking water, including bottled water, may reasonably be expected to contain at least small amounts of some contaminants.

The presence of contaminants does not necessarily indicate that water poses a health risk. More information about contaminants and potential health effects can be obtained by calling the EPA’s Safe Drinking Water Hotline (1-800-426-4791) or MWRA. In order to ensure that tap water is safe to drink, the Massachusetts DEP and the EPA prescribe regulations which limit the amount of certain contaminants in water provided by public water systems. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MDPH) regulations establish limits for contaminants in bottled water, which must provide the same protection for public health.

Important Health Information: Drinking Water and People with Weakened Immune Systems

We listen to you!

You can help provide information about local water quality. Every call is investigated. Most complaints are related to discolored water (usually related to local construction or hydrant use), or conditions in a building’s plumbing. If you have a concern, contact your local water department, or call MWRA at (617) 242-5323.

6

Some people may be more vulnerable to contaminants in drinking water than the general population. Immuno-compromised persons such as persons with cancer undergoing chemotherapy, persons who have undergone organ transplants, people with HIV/AIDS or other immune system disorders, some elderly, and infants, can be particularly at risk from infections. These people should seek advice about drinking water from their health care providers. EPA/CDC guidelines on appropriate means to lessen the risk of infection by Cryptosporidium and other microbial contaminants are available from the EPA’s Safe Drinking Water Hotline (1-800-426-4791).

Continue to Conserve

MWRA water use has dropped by over a third since the 1980s. It’s up to all of us to continue to use water wisely. Every drop is valuable. Our website has many tips on how to save water indoors and outside.

continued on page 67

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JULY, 2023

MWRA continued from page 65 City Of Boston Boston Water And Sewer Commission

Public Water Supply # 3035000

980 Harrison Avenue Boston, MA 02119-2540 617-989-7000

Dear Customer: This report contains an annual update on the quality of drinking water supplied to you by the Boston Water and Sewer Commission (BWSC), in partnership with the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA). This report provides detailed information on the MWRA’s system and illustrates that the water delivered to Boston complies with federal and state quality standards.

BWSC was ranked highest in customer satisfaction in the Northeast by J.D. Power in their 2022 Water Utility Residential Customer Satisfaction Study.

This was the second time in four years that we received this prestigious award. The study was based on several factors that included water quality, reliability, and conservation. In our efforts to promote conservation activities, this past year BWSC distributed over 750 water conservation kits to Boston residents.

BWSC continues to provide excellent drinking water to our customers through the investment of millions of dollars in upgrades to our infrastructure.

The water provided by BWSC comes from the MWRA’s reservoirs, and the water is lead-free. Most BWSC distribution pipes that carry water to our customers are made of iron, steel, and copper. During BWSC’s Fall 2022 mandatory testing for lead in higher risk homes with lead service lines, the 90th percentile for lead was 12.6 parts per billion (ppb) below the Action Level (AL) of 15 ppb. The 90th percentile result for copper was 77.5 ppb, below the AL of 1300 ppb.

The Commission has undertaken an accelerated program to identify and eliminate lead service lines, both in the public way, and on private property.

Range

90th Percentile Value

Action Level

MCLG

Samples Over Action Level

Lead

0.09–29.1 ppb

12.6 ppb

15 ppb

0 ppb

3

Copper

7.1–93.9 ppb

77.5 ppb

1300 ppb

1300 ppb

0

A principal priority of Mayor Michelle Wu’s administration is the health, and safety of the residents of Boston. The Commission’s outreach to property owners is facilitated by the Commission’s Lead Hotline. BWSC customers should call our Lead Hotline to schedule an inspection of their water service pipe, to determine whether it is composed of lead. In 2022, BWSC received over 380 customer requests to have their water service pipe inspected for lead, as well as performed vacuum investigations of 1,119 services, resulting in 324 lead replacements. BWSC’s Lead Replacement Incentive Program offers financial assistance to eligible property owners, in the form of a credit of up to $4,000.00 towards the cost of the replacement with the ability to pay any remaining balance interest-free over a 60-month period. For additional information about lead in drinking water and the Lead Replacement Incentive Program, call our lead hotline at (617) 989-7888. That information is also available on our website at: www.bwsc.org/environmenteducation/lead-your-water. Any questions regarding Commission meetings, or other information contained in this report, may be directed to BWSC’s Communications, and our Community Services Department at (617) 989-7250.

Sincerely,

Henry F. Vitale, CPA Executive Director/Treasurer

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JULY, 2023

“BUY FROM THE ADVERTISERS IN CONSTRUCTION OUTLOOK”

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DigSafe.com or Call 811 Before You Dig It’s smart. It’s free. It’s the law.

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“BUY FROM THE ADVERTISERS IN CONSTRUCTION OUTLOOK”

JULY, 2023

Christopher Clark

World Insurance Associates, Inc.

Navigating Construction Risks: How Inland Marine Insurance Keeps Projects Afloat In the construction industry, insurance is crucial to protect against unforeseen events that can disrupt projects and jeopardize financial stability. Inland marine insurance is a valuable solution that fills coverage gaps for portable or specialized property.

T

his article explores the unique benefits of inland marine insurance, equipping contractors and builders with the knowledge to safeguard their assets and navigate the industry confidently.

Understanding Inland Marine Insurance Inland marine insurance offers flexible and comprehensive coverage for property frequently on the move, such as construction equipment, tools, and supplies. Unlike traditional property insurance, it extends beyond fixed locations.

Key coverage areas include: • • • • •

Builder's Risk Insurance: Protects against damage to buildings or structures under construction, renovation, or repair.

Contractor's Equipment Insurance: Covers valuable equipment against theft, damage, or loss on job sites or during transportation.

Installation Coverage: Safeguards machinery and equipment during transit, installation, and testing at various project sites.

Rigger's Liability Insurance: Provides specialized liability coverage for contractors handling and transporting others' equipment.

Motor Truck Cargo Liability: Provides coverage when mobilizing the goods or equipment of others in your care, custody, or control.

Risks Addressed by Inland Marine Insurance: JULY, 2023

Theft Risks: Covers the high-value and portable assets left unattended at jobsites.

Waterborne Equipment Risks: Protects equipment that may be on vessels, barges or used on floating work platforms.

Rental Equipment Exposures: Addresses additional risks and liabilities when contractors use rented equipment.

• Continued rental payment coverage.

• Pollutant clean up coverage.

Top Five Tips for Choosing the Right Coverage:

1. Evaluate Coverage Limits: Select limits that adequately protect the value of your equipment and assets.

2. Review Policy Exclusions: Look for policies with minimal or industry-relevant exclusions. continued on page 70

“BUY FROM THE ADVERTISERS IN CONSTRUCTION OUTLOOK”

69

Insurance Perspective continued from page 69 3. Assess Additional Coverage Options: Consider endorsements or riders that provide additional protection for specific risks.

4. Understand Deductibles: Find a balance between affordable premiums and manageable deductibles.

5. Consider Carrier Reputation: Choose insurance carriers with a solid track record of prompt and fair claims settlement.

Inland marine insurance is vital to a robust risk management strategy, providing peace of mind and long-term financial stability. Moreover, inland marine insurance is crucial in ensuring project continuity by minimizing delays caused by unexpected events.

With comprehensive coverage, contractors can confidently focus on their projects, knowing their assets are safeguarded and any potential losses are mitigated. n

SAND & STONE CORP. 192 Plain St. North Attleboro, MA 02760 (508) 699-1922 www.borocorp.com

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4/14/2023 9:18:16 AM

JULY, 2023

5 Ways of Addressing the Labor Shortage to Recruit & Retain Staff The infrastructure law problem only human resources can solve

The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law provides an opportunity to change the landscape of America. Federal spending to build and repair U.S. infrastructure is expected to increase by over $550 billion. Government contractors, especially those specializing in heavy civil construction, could receive substantial amounts of economic stimulus if they effectively prepare and have the right talent at the ready. I regularly hear from architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) businesses about how the labor shortage is making staffing projects incredibly challenging.

A

ccording to the 2023 Construction Hiring and Business Outlook from the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) and Sage, respondents are most optimistic about infrastructure categories. The study showed “positive readings of 42% for both highway and bridge construction and transportation projects such as transit, rail and airports.”

As reported by the American Road and Transportation Builders Association (ARTBA), the value of state and local contract awards increased 25% in 2022; I can only hope 2023 will continue to see this type of growth. But that brings us to the pressing question on everyone’s mind: Does our firm have the right staff to bid on and perform the work?

The labor shortage is by far the largest challenge for most contractors, according to Ken Simonson, ACG’s chief economist. With that in mind, how can

JULY, 2023

you adapt your workforce strategy today? Here are five practical steps.

1. Step Up Scenario Planning The pandemic underscored the need for a deliberate, focused and thoughtful scenario planning process.

Scenario planning requires development of shortand long-term strategies to ramp up (and sometimes ramp down) the size of a team, projects or full staffing model, depending on the expected workflow. Develop contingency plans to adapt to external threats, such as requests for accommodations.

2. Enhance Workforce Utilization Job candidates currently have substantial labormarket power. They are demanding greater flexibility in continued on page 72

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71

Labor Shortage continued from page 71 where, when and how they work. While the level of flexibility depends on the particular job, responding to these new expectations requires thinking differently about staffing, as well as having a well-defined employee value proposition (EVP). Your EVP explains to job candidates why working for you is more attractive than working for your competitors. Promote your EVP as you promote open positions to attract the best talent.

Mentoring programs are an effective method for creating a talent pipeline. When I was involved in AGC’s Construction Careers Center charter high school in St. Louis, Missouri, I saw firsthand how mentors inspire students to choose constructionrelated careers. Your firm can also get involved with similar nonprofit organizations, such as Helmets to Hardhats, to create a talent pipeline from veterans.

To expand candidate pools, develop “upskilling” programs that provide training and certification to candidates who may not have the full range of skills needed to qualify for existing positions.

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3. Increase DEI Efforts Disadvantaged business enterprise (DBE) contractors and diverse workforces are critical to the construction industry based on the guidelines of the infrastructure law. Diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) efforts often make the difference between being the apparent low bidder that loses the work and being the creative, inclusive contractor that wins the work. Recruiting efforts should include programs that attract women and people of color.

Offering thoughtful employee benefits can be a competitive advantage in attracting women to the industry. Improved benefits can directly impact job performance, well-being and overall happiness. In 2023, a year where companies will need to compete on a budget, this may be the best dollar-for-dollar investment construction companies can make in their workforce. The National Association of Women in Construction is an example of one organization creating awareness about meaningful careers and offering support for women in construction.

Keep in mind that both the Federal Highway Administration and Federal Transit Administration programs will give contracting agencies expanded flexibility to use hiring preferences to enhance workforce development opportunities for those in economically or socially disadvantaged communities.

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4. Design Compensation for Your People There is no substitute for programs personalized continued on page 73 72

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JULY, 2023

Labor Shortage continued from page 72 for your company to optimize your workforce. Compensation is a pressing issue. If one firm is offering $15 per hour and another is offering $12 per hour, that makes a significant difference to job candidates.

AEC companies have turned to consulting firms to address their compensation challenges, such as: • Developing a total rewards strategy and compensation philosophy • Conducting a labor market assessment of total direct compensation • Creating salary ranges to assist with pay management, career-pathing and emerging regulatory requirements • Designing an enhanced long-term incentive plan for executives • Pay equity analysis

5. Be Strategic About Medical & Mental Health Benefits To help attract and retain key talent, and keep that talent healthy and productive, instituting thoughtful medical and mental health benefit programs is essential. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more construction workers die by

suicide each year than by all other construction-related fatalities, as reported by ARTBA. Unfortunately, construction industry suicide statistics are jarring: • 45.3 suicides per 100,000 workers • Estimated more than 5,500 suicides each year • Construction worker suicide is 3.5 times the national average The industry has begun to recognize the need for additional mental health and substance use disorder support. Some AEC firms have added employee assistance programs to their coverage when traditional mental health care has been proven to not provide enough support. Plus, people on a jobsite cannot always easily get to a medical facility nearby, so there is an uptick in AEC companies offering group and individual counseling sessions available via phone.

Preventing opioid overdose and suicide among construction workers, as well as supporting workers’ recovery and reintegration into the workforce, is key to helping employees succeed. Since there are quite a few programs in the marketplace, it can be a challenge to evaluate which ones are right for your staff, so consider hiring a consultancy to assist with this process.

Taking the time to shape the right health plan for your specific workforce will go a long way toward supporting your talent and managing expenses. continued on page 75

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JULY, 2023

Labor Shortage continued from page 73 Make an informed decision when choosing vendors, such as a pharmacy benefit management provider.

Comparing and contrasting telemedicine and digital therapeutics point solutions can be challenging, because the health insurance marketplace is flooded with choices. Employers who ignore these complexities and continue with legacy health plan design and delivery approaches will miss significant opportunity gains.

One last thought: Be sure to have attorneys on your team or staffed within your consulting firm who can advise you on how to effectively comply with local, state and national employment laws. As you set up your current and future workforce for increased success, keep in mind that even though many construction businesses are feeling pressure when it comes to recruiting and retaining staff, there are solutions available as we head into this exciting new era.

Reprinted from www.ConstructionBusinessOwner.com. Written by Stephen H. Lewis.n

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“BUY FROM THE ADVERTISERS IN CONSTRUCTION OUTLOOK”

75

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Understanding Confined Space Risks Planning and proper precautions can reduce the threat of confined-space entry

W

ithout looking it up, can you name the three parts of the OSHA definition for a confined space? If not, that lack of knowledge can be the first common hazard of a confined space.

Many employees who enter a confined space may not realize how valuable it is to know that vital definition before entering a confined space. What about a permit-required confined space? Can you say what makes a confined space a permit-required confined space? If not, read on.

The OSHA definition of a confined space is a space that has limited or restricted means of entry, is not designed for continuous occupancy, and is large enough and configured so that a person can enter the space and maneuver well enough to perform tasks. The OSHA definition of a permitrequired confined space is one that has the potential to expose personnel to hazards that require controls to prevent injury or death. With that understanding of the definitions of a confined space and a permit-required confined space, let’s talk about some of the common hazards that employees face when entering confined spaces.

JULY, 2023

One of the more deadly hazards is a lack of oxygen in a confined space. Any level below 19.5% is considered dangerous and as the levels continue to drop the danger increases and death can occur in minutes if the oxygen levels are low enough. Common causes of low oxygen levels include hot work like welding or grinding, the oxidation process and bacteria. Exposure to levels at 12% or lower will bring about unconsciousness without warning and so quickly that the employee will not be able to protect themselves or escape.

While low oxygen levels are bad enough, high oxygen levels can create a different problem altogether. Oxygen levels above 23.5% can create an explosive atmosphere that can ignite with just a spark from a metal tool on metal.

You can have issues with toxic atmospheres as well. These atmospheres are dangerous because of either the product stored in the confined space or the work being performed while in the confined space. Methane, hydrogen sulfide, and continued on page 78

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Understanding Confined Space continued from page 77

carbon monoxide are just a few of the more wellknown gases that can create very hazardous atmospheres.

Atmospheric hazards can be dangerous and, in some cases, deadly, but they are not the only hazards of confined spaces. You still have to pay attention to the common physical hazards such as energized sources like electricity (failing to lockout/ tagout), falling into a confined space or objects that fall into a confined space that could strike the employee, engulfment and drowning, and slick and wet surfaces that create slip hazards. Noisy environments, temperature extremes and weather can create hazards as well.

These common confined-space hazards can lead to serious injuries or even death. The good news is that adhering to a proper written confinedspace program can eliminate most of the hazards and provide protection methods for employees who must enter confined spaces.

Written by Ronnie Freeman. Reprinted from Municipal Water & Sewer magazine. n

78

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“BUY FROM THE ADVERTISERS IN CONSTRUCTION OUTLOOK”

JULY, 2023

Local Water Quality Projects Secure New Funding HYANNIS – The Cape Cod and Islands Water Protection Fund Management Board has awarded over $40 million dollars in subsidies for water quality projects.

T

he towns awarded funds include Barnstable, Chatham, Harwich, Mashpee, Wellfleet, and Yarmouth.

Projects planned in those towns will improve pump stations and sewer expansions, construction of wastewater treatment facilities, and an alternative septic system program.

“Improving our region’s wastewater infrastructure supports clean water and a healthy economy,” said Cape Cod Commission Executive Director Kristy Senatori.

“These grant awards allow our towns to move forward with implementation of critical, community-supported projects,” Senatori said.

The Cape Cod and Islands Water Protection Fund has awarded approximately

APRIL,2023 JULY, 2023

View of the water from the Sea Camps property.

Credit: Town of Brewster

$140 million to Cape Cod communities to fund new water quality and wastewater projects and certain pre-existing wastewater debt.

Acknowledging the important role ongoing monitoring plays in understanding the impact of investments in water quality, the board also voted to commit over $300,000 for water quality monitoring in the region.

Reprinted from capecod.com. Written by Zachary Clapp. n

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21 79

11 Index Advertisers’ 21st Century Concrete, Inc....................................................80 AAA Work Trucks...................................................................72 ATS Equipment, Inc. .............................................................34 Advantage Drug Testing........................................................76 Allied Bolt and Screw Corporation.....................................................56 Alta Construction Equipment New England, LLC.....Ins. Back Cover Badger Daylighting................................................................32 Benevento Companies..........................................................52 Boro Sand & Stone Corp.......................................................70 Brennan Consulting...............................................................19 Broadstone Advisors..............................................................35 Dennis K. Burke, Inc..............................................................15 Chadwick-BaRoss....................................................................2 Concrete Systems, Inc...........................................................18 Core & Main.............................................................................4 Cumberland Quarry Corp......................................................33 Dagle Electrical Construction Corp.......................................30 Darmody, Merlino & Co., LLP................................................52 Dedham Recycled Gravel......................................................73 DeSanctis Insurance Agency, Inc. ........................................ 74 Dig Safe System, Inc.............................................................68 The Driscoll Agency...............................................................66 Jack Doheny Company..........................................................60 Eastpoint Lasers, LLC...........................................................58 T. L. Edwards, Inc.................................................................. 11 Ferguson Waterworks............................................................64 Genalco, Inc...........................................................................62 L. Guerini Group, Inc..............................................................78 Henniker Directional Drilling, LLC......................................... 17 Hinckley Allen LLP........................................................ 14 & 40 John Hoadley & Sons, Inc.....................................................58 Industrial Safety & Rescue....................................................68 JESCO...................................................................................66 Jolin Paving & Excavating Inc................................................52 P. J. Keating Company.............................................................8 P. A. Landers, Inc...................................................................36 Lawrence-Lynch Corp............................................................62 Lorusso Corp.........................................................................64 Lorusso Heavy Equipment, LLC............................................16 Mabbett & Associates, Inc.....................................................37 Mass Broken Stone Company...............................................13 McGovern Ford of Framingham.............................................29 Mersino Dewatering...............................................................26 Milton CAT...............................................................Back Cover Milton Rents...........................................................................25 Monroe Tractor.......................................................................21 National Trench Safety..........................................................10 Norfolk Power Equipment, Inc...............................................75 North American Crane & Rigging LLC..................................20 North East Shoring Equipment, LLC.....................................28 Northwestern Mutual..............................................................37 Ocean State Oil......................................................................78 Pawtucket Hot Mix Asphalt.................................................... 74 Podgurski Corp......................................................................64 E. J. Prescott, Inc................................................Ins. Front Cvr. Putnam Pipe...........................................................................13 Rain For Rent-New England..................................................12 Read Custom Soils................................................................56 Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers........................................................6 Scituate Concrete Products Corp..........................................46 Scrap-It, Inc............................................................................53 Shea Concrete Products, Inc. ...............................................24 SITECH New England............................................................50 Starkweather & Shepley Ins. Brokerage, Inc........................48 Taylor Oil Company...............................................................75 Tenna.....................................................................................60 Tonry Insurance Group, Inc................................................... 11 Triumph Modular....................................................................58 United Concrete Products.....................................................76 United Construction & Forestry, LLC.......................................1 Webster Printing & Packaging...............................................56 Westlake Pipe & Fittings........................................................70 C. N. Wood Co., Inc. .............................................................22 World Insurance Associates LLC............................................9

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“BUY FROM THE ADVERTISERS IN CONSTRUCTION OUTLOOK”

JULY, 2023

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