Labor

Fiber Broadband Association survey: Labor contributed 73% of underground build costs in 2023

The study explored many factors that influence cost but often make it challenging to compare costs across deployments. This includes cost components like labor, materials, build scenarios, and the choice of construction method.

Researchers develop safety monitoring system for construction sites

(UI) — University of Houston computer scientists have developed a new system to keep construction workers safe at job sites. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, 4,764 workers died on the job in 2020. Employees in construction and extraction occupations accounted for 20% of those deaths.

Registration open for 17th ASCE UESI/BAMI-I Utility Investigation School

(UI) — The Buried Asset Management Institute – International (BAMI-I) and ASCE’S Utility Engineering and Surveying Institute (UESI) Pittsburgh chapter have teamed to conduct the 17th ASCE UESI/BAMI-I UIS School in 2023.

Strange Days

I think it’s safe to say that most people in the underground utility and pipeline industry entered 2022 hoping for a strong rebound and return to a much sought-after normal year. Ironically, 2022 has proven to be a year beset by bizarre challenges, yet still sugar-coated with financial windfalls.

WEF Panel to Study Biohazards, Safety for Wastewater Workers

To ensure the protection of wastewater workers during the coronavirus pandemic and beyond, the Water Environment Federation is convening a blue-ribbon panel of experts to evaluate information on biological hazards and safety precautions.

Underground Construction and Related Industries Respond to Coronavirus

While much of North America hunkers down to wait out the coronavirus pandemic, essential workers at companies throughout the underground construction industry are continuing to deliver vital services to customers.

Industry Labor Shortages to Continue Through 2030: Report

The threat of labor shortages is greater now in blue-collar and manual-services occupations than in white-collar jobs. A new study by The Conference Board explains why the trend is expected to last a decade and how companies are responding to the hiring challenge.

John Deere Launches Apprenticeship Program

John Deere is helping to address the widespread shortage of service technicians, especially in rural areas, through a new Registered Apprenticeship Program it is making available to its dealers.

$21.95 Billion Global HDD Market Forecast by 2026

A new report by ResearchAndMarkets.com estimates the global horizontal directional drilling (HDD) market will grow at a compound annual growth rate of 14.6 percent to $21.95 billion in 2026 from $6.43 billion in 2017.

Quanta Acquires Training College to Address Worker Shortages, Training

In its effort to head off a growing shortage of skilled workers, Quanta Services has taken the unusual step of acquiring Northwest Lineman College (NLC).