Use of less hazardous materials, personal protective equipment and regular health checkups recommended
Construction workers who work with hazardous insulation materials are much more likely to be affected by repeated chest infections and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), according to new research published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. The study followed 990 insulators over six years. Participants underwent regular pulmonary function tests and chest radiography…
The $493 billion in oil and gas revenues paid to governments since 2000 is more than family allowance and children’s benefits since 1970
By Mark Milke and Lennie Kaplan Canadian Energy Centre Humans are wired to respond to stories that paint a relatable picture of an issue at hand. And those stories are easier to remember. If we repeat a Rex Murphy story about how out-of-work cod fishery workers from Newfoundland saved their homes and marriages by moving…
Construction and design features matter more to buyers than price or age of properties, engineering researchers find
Physical features such as construction materials, interior finishes and air conditioning are better determinants of how well a condo sells than price or building age, according to a University of Alberta study looking to pinpoint design-related features that increase the probability of a condo’s sale. “We’re trying to provide a framework through which builders can evaluate…
Infrastructure projects have very long timelines and by the time shovels hit the ground the recession is usually over and recovery has begun, think tank argues
Looking to discretionary public infrastructure investments as a response to economic downturns may be a poor policy choice, suggests a new study released Wednesday by public policy think-tank the Fraser Institute. The Fiscal Policy and Recessions: The Role of Public Infrastructure Spending report said infrastructure spending is not an effective policy for stimulating the economy…
We don’t recognize that times and technology have changed, we’ve been holding the organization back or we’re just exhausted by our years of leadership
It wasn’t the several times I almost died on the job. It wasn’t when I fell off roofs or rolled heavy equipment. But I can remember the day and time I knew I had to get out of construction. It was -35C and I was demolishing a gas station for my employer. As I went…
Yes, a downtown can be revitalized. But how to do it successfully – as Moncton has – remains a bit of a mystery
If there’s anything special about the much-ballyhooed Moncton Miracle, it’s that this New Brunswick city manages to thrive despite itself. That could be said about almost all successful municipalities, of course. But one look at this community’s downtown core five years ago and you would not have detected anything remotely resembling gritty determination. Look anywhere…
Mauro Plenzik talks about how Maskell Plenzik & Partners has kept abreast of a changing marketplace, remaining prepared, nimble and capable
Mauro Plenzik is principal of Maskell Plenzik & Partners Engineering Inc. in Calgary. What is Maskell Plenzik & Partners Engineering and what do you do? Plenzik: Maskell Plenzik and Partners is an electrical engineering consulting firm that specializes in buildings’ electrical, communication and security design. Further to the broad range of design services we provide…
Alberta was the province with the highest percentage of home renovations over $50,000 during the last 12 months, according to a new study. “The higher spend in Alberta may be attributed to the devastating fire in Fort McMurray which resulted in a boost to renovations and repairs on homes in that area, with many projects…
Brigitte Lepage talks about the Capstone Custom Homes values of caring for clients, being accountable, innovative and passionate
Brigitte Lepage is co-owner of Capstone Custom Homes. What is Capstone Custom Homes and what does it do? Lepage: Capstone Custom Homes is a luxury custom home builder based in Calgary. We’re also a relationship builder, a people-focused business that builds outstanding homes. The relationships that we have with our clients and everyone we deal…
Tomasz Sztuk of Sztuk Architecture explains why focus on long-term sustainability, efficiency and good detailing pays off
Tomasz Sztuk is owner of Sztuk Architecture. Tell me about you and your company. Sztuk: I’ve been practising architecture in Canada since 1991. Before starting my own firm, Sztuk Architecture Inc., in 2013, I worked in Calgary in capacities ranging from junior architect, to director of design, to principal. In addition to running my own…
Construction workers who work with hazardous insulation materials are much more likely to be affected by repeated chest infections and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), according to new research published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. The study followed 990 insulators over six years. Participants underwent regular pulmonary function tests and chest radiography…
