October 2024 Vol. 79 No. 10

Power generation is rapidly emerging across North America – indeed, the world – as the primary factor that, in the near future, will impact not only our economy, but further development of modern civilization.

Two recent federal appeals court decisions make it unlikely that 2024 and beyond will see an improvement in that statistic, even as interstate pipeline building becomes more important, given increased demand from electric generators, data centers and auto electrification.

Not only has the DC Federal Court of Appeals upended FERC decisions, it has now injected itself into Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) decisions.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) issued a proposed rule in July that would affect all employers nationwide and require, among other things, a written heat injury and illness prevention plan, substantial heat-injury-related precautions, training and regular, comprehensive program reviews and updates.

Earlier this year, my husband and I had a fence replaced, and we failed to call 811 before the workers began digging. We didn’t even think about it – and we’re not the only ones.

Strong investment by investor-owned utilities, the federal government, states and municipalities have led to quality project opportunities that brought significant growth to the contractors serving those markets.

Water & Sewer Damage Awareness Week (WSDAW) 2024 is planned for Oct 21-25. This year, key stakeholders in the water and wastewater industry from across the country are gearing up to receive free educational presentations tailored to provide industry-leading practices and strategies to protect and maintain the water and wastewater systems that we all rely on.

Fatbergs, a true enemy of urban plumbing, are monstrous masses consisting primarily of non-flushable household and personal items found in the underbelly of urban sewer systems.

In sanitary sewer and storm lines, scale, grout, mortar residue and mineral deposits as well as cementitious particulates can accumulate over time and harden to the pipe wall or floor.

NovaForm is a styrene-free, expand-in-place structural liner for rehabilitating trenchless sewer and stormwater culverts. This liner combines long-term strength with flexibility, allowing it to handle some of the most challenging installation conditions.

A construction observer is the system owner’s representative on a construction project. Their primary responsibility is to thoroughly understand the project plans and specifications and be present on-site during construction to ensure adherence to these plans and specifications, safeguarding the owner’s best interests.

EarthGrid, EnerTech to invest $18 billion in underground projects; Tennessee requires $3 billion for wastewater infrastructure repairs by 2027; Clack-A-Mole TBM progresses on Oregon outfall tunnel; and more!

In the latest New Products column, Underground Infrastructure highlights Franklin’s FPS Submersible Wastewater Pump portfolio, Yanmar’s new line of compact track loaders, and Vermeer’s new MX150 mixing system. Discover the latest advancements designed to enhance jobsite performance and sustainability.

Explore the latest business moves in the underground infrastructure industry, from groundbreaking tunnel construction to dealer expansions, cutting-edge pipeline detection technology, and beyond. This month’s Business column covers major projects and acquisitions, innovation milestones, and key developments shaping the field.