Tag Archive for: construction industry

The age of technology is in full swing, but some people fear that artificial intelligence will take over too many existing jobs and put people out of work. Others, many industry leaders included, welcome the addition of AI in the workforce. The construction industry is no exception; the use of autonomous construction equipment is on the rise across the construction sector.

What is Autonomous Construction Equipment?

Autonomous construction equipment, such as dozers, excavators, load carriers, and haul trucks, are driverless machines that can be used to perform a variety of jobs on construction sites. These machines are typically controlled by an operator via a remote control program. This innovation has allowed many construction projects to be completed with minimal safety issues and maximum efficiency.

As the technology continues to develop and the usage benefits increase, these machines are becoming more common on job sites. Particularly, the use of autonomous vehicles (AV) has increased considerably over the past decade. In 2016, 20 states across the country introduced legislation concerning the use of AV. In 2017, that number grew to 33 states. In 2018, 15 of these states enacted a total of 18 bills regarding the use of AV.

What Does Autonomous Construction Equipment Mean for Jobs?

One of the biggest concerns around incorporating AV at construction sites is the potential negative impact on jobs. Will these vehicles take over jobs traditionally held by hard-working people and ultimately put those people out of work?

Fortunately, studies have shown that will not be the case! In fact, autonomous construction equipment could end up creating higher-paying jobs over time instead of taking them away. But this will not happen overnight, and the industry will end up changing dramatically. This transition over the next few decades is projected to raise the unemployment rate from 0.06% to 0.13%, but this indicates that jobs will be shifting in nature instead of being phased out.

For example, traditional operator roles have begun to transition to remote operators who will be operating the machinery with controllers. And these skills are in high demand!

Companies like Teleo are actively recruiting more operators and offering a position with “significantly better working conditions, making the job safer and more comfortable.” The remote control technology allows operators to safely run the machines from outside the cab, minimizing the risk of injury and providing them with a clear view of the work happening.

Times are definitely changing, and construction industry leaders are working hard to keep up. We can expect to see autonomous construction equipment on job sites across the country in a matter of decades. As such, learning the new skills of the trade will be essential to keeping up with the evolution of the industry.

Unlock Your Project’s Full Potential

We continually lead the way and incorporate the latest trends into our work. As an AISC-recognized supplier, we guarantee the highest quality steel for every project. We build durable, reliable bridges quickly, using only the best tools and techniques available to meet your unique project needs.

Contact us for a free estimate, or use our industry-leading Bridgescope tool to begin planning your project now!

Sustainability is a hot topic lately; stakeholders across all industries are being compelled to switch their practices to incorporate more “green” practices in the interest of protecting the planet from further pollution and complying with new regulations. The construction industry is no exception; green construction is taking over the sector. Construction firms are adopting green construction practices to ensure that future projects are built sustainably and that cities are cleaner places to live and work.

What is Green Construction?

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), “green construction is the practice of creating structures and using processes that are environmentally responsible and resource-efficient throughout a building’s life cycle.” This includes the design and construction of the building, as well as any future operations, maintenance, and renovations. More and more construction companies are adopting green practices in their building projects. In 2021, 47% of construction companies identified 60% of its projects as green building projects. This represents significant growth, compared to only 27% of construction firms making this claim in 2018.

The environmental benefits of sustainable construction are numerous, including:

  • Enhancing and protecting the ecosystem. Construction zones are notorious for being environmentally hazardous. Implementing green construction practices will help reduce the long-term devastation of ecosystems and their inhabitants.
  • Improving air and water quality. According to the World Green Building Council, the construction industry generates an estimated 39% of the world’s total carbon emissions. Structures built using green construction practices create less pollution than those built using traditional construction tactics.
  • Reducing waste. In a 2018 study, the EPA found that the United States produced over 600 million tons of construction-related waste. Green construction sites produce significantly less waste than traditional construction sites.
  • Conserving and restoring natural resources. These modern buildings utilize natural, renewable energy resources to create electricity. Wind turbines, solar panels, and water pump systems all power these green buildings without creating waste or burning fossil fuels.

Examples of Green Construction

Thankfully, we are seeing more and more green buildings pop up across the globe. These structures are not only striking to look at and great examples of modern architecture, but they are also paving the way for green buildings to be the norm instead of the exception.

Museum of Tomorrow – Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

This incredible science museum is beautiful to look at and a testament to the future of architecture. The building features adjustable, fin-like solar panels and a revolutionary air-conditioning system that distributes the cold water from Guanabara Bay throughout the building. This all-natural method of providing cool air throughout the building is a great energy saver.

Shanghai Tower – Shanghai, China

The Shanghai Tower is the world’s second-tallest building, measuring 2,073 feet. This building is wrapped in a transparent second layer through which captured air serves as natural ventilation. This innovation, including the 270 wind turbines that power the building’s external lights, significantly reduced energy costs and waste.

CopenHill – Copenhagen, Denmark

This power plant burns waste to generate electricity. Every year, 440,000 tons of garbage is converted into clean electricity and heating for 150,000 nearby homes. In addition to being a green power plant, this building is a sports facility with one of the world’s tallest climbing towers and artificial ski slopes.

The Future is Green

The Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 represents the largest investment in climate action in U.S. history. This bill directs $370 billion over the next decade to rapidly increase renewable energy production and create significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. This will be accomplished by accelerating the production of clean energy, vehicles, buildings, and manufacturing.

Backed by federal funding, states and cities will hopefully continue to turn to more green construction practices in the future.

Durable, Sustainable Bridges

Here at U.S. Bridge, we believe in building bridges that positively affect the community and that will last decades. Construction has a major impact on a country’s environment, including its carbon footprint.

As industry leaders and an AISC-recognized supplier, we work directly with companies around the world—without middlemen—to engineer, manufacture, and construct high-quality steel bridges for every project. Steel is a strong, recyclable, and versatile material that is great for construction.

That’s why we’re proud to offer a wide selection of prefabricated bridges specifically designed for your project.

Contact us for a free estimate, or use our industry-leading Bridgescope tool to begin planning your project now!

Many areas of the United States have bridge infrastructure that is in terrible condition.

Regular inspections are essential to identify potential issues and prevent catastrophic failures that can endanger human lives and cause significant economic damage. And now, with the use of inspection robots, the process can be safer, faster, and more cost-effective than traditional methods.

These specialized robots use advanced technologies such as sensors, cameras, and artificial intelligence to detect and analyze bridge defects that may have otherwise been skipped over.

By using this technology, bridge owners and operators can better assess potential issues and take the necessary proactive measures to address them.

The Current State of Our Bridges

According to the American Society of Civil Engineers, there are over 617,000 bridges in the United States, with 42% being 50 years old or older and nearing the end of their structural lives.

Bridges are aging, and 7.5% of all bridges in the United States are structurally deficient, meaning that all or part of the bridge is unsound.

Because of this, it’s necessary to inspect bridges more frequently to look for wear and tear that could cause safety issues and partial failure or total collapse. However, the federal government and state regulations for bridge inspections are all different.

The Benefit of an Inspection Robot

Inspection robots can be a substitute for humans in potentially dangerous environments, such as those where there is a fire or combustible gas. They can also contain high-definition and infrared cameras, microphones, and gas detectors.

Aside from replacing humans in hazardous situations, inspection robots provide far more mobility than humans, with the ability to move around tight spaces or climb up walls. This allows engineers to make more informed decisions quickly.

Robots can be controlled manually from a distance or programmed to complete certain tasks and instructions. These features create an effective tool for engineers.

As technology advances, these robots will only become more capable and versatile, opening up new possibilities for their use within the construction industry.

Drone Inspections

In recent years, drones have become more than just a hobby or a novelty. They are now effective tools that can assist humans in various industries, including construction and engineering.

Much like other inspection robots, drones save time and money and significantly reduce the risk of accidents by minimizing the need for workers to climb scaffolding or high areas.

They can also perform more complex inspections as technology improves. As we collect and analyze more data, the information we get from drone inspections will help engineers perform better bridge maintenance and make better design decisions. This improves the safety and longevity of our country’s infrastructure.

Traditional bridge inspection methods, alongside inspection robots, employ cutting-edge tools and equipment for hands-on inspections. But as technology improves, drones and robots’ abilities will continue to grow. This will make them more important for a wider range of construction and engineering tasks.

Growing into the Future with U.S. Bridge

Technology and robotics are changing construction and engineering forever. U.S. Bridge uses cutting-edge technology to evolve, like our exclusive BridgeScope tool.

Contact us to get your project started!

Over the past few years, inflation has increased the price of everyday essentials and almost everything used in the bridge and building sectors. The skyrocketing prices shocked many manufacturers, resulting in cold feet and desperate attempts to resuscitate deals.

This can be particularly challenging for bridge fabrication companies, as raw materials and labor costs can account for a significant portion of their expenses. However, there are strategies that a bridge fabricator can implement to fight against inflation and maintain its competitive edge.

What’s Fueling Inflation?

Inflation can significantly impact bridge construction and operations as the cost of steel, labor, and other inputs increase. However, other economic factors can drive prices up considerably.

Construction companies need to learn how to navigate the current economic climate. Understanding the underlying causes of inflation and developing strategies to mitigate its impact on a business is essential. Some of these factors include:

  • COVID-19-related shortages: The pandemic reduced global manufacturing and has kept workers away in numerous countries. This lowers production and leads to fewer items, higher demand, and higher prices.
  • Higher fuel costs: Like everything else, fuel costs are also increasing, leading to gas-powered operations costing much more to run efficiently.
  • Increased demand: Due to decades of underinvestment in infrastructure, new bridges, roads, and renovations are undoubtedly needed. The current infrastructure bill will finance this effort, and financing will compete for building resources, raising costs.

Overcoming Inflation

Despite support from the government, many construction firms are low on funds, leaving them with less support to fight against inflation and compete for supplies and equipment. However, there are plenty of ways a bridge fabricator can still compete in this troublesome market while remaining profitable and complying with contracts.

Create New Rules

Many construction firms abide by the same rules when inflation is high. This shouldn’t be the case. Instead, with higher inflation, construction companies need to create new regulations and procedures.

For example, companies can rethink inventory management when ordering supplies to save money and storage space. Also, before signing any contracts, firms need to evaluate whether or not it makes sense to purchase supplies immediately or to wait, as the costs may fluctuate in the future.

Eliminate Undercutting

Competitiveness within the bridge industry is real; sometimes companies offer lower prices than their competitors. However, doing so may not be wise in times of rising prices. This is because undercutting can cause a significant loss of profit and can ultimately put a firm out of business.

Keep Contracts Up to Date

When discussing contracts with a legal team, consider the possibility of including price provisions to combat inflation. This will keep customers accountable for any potential budget overruns that might arise throughout construction.

Treat Employees Right

Firms that take the initiative to transform their companies into attractive workplaces will benefit from not having to replace their workforce as much. Consider providing employees with innovative and relevant perks that won’t break the bank.

Also, ensuring a safe working environment will quell any concerns. By taking these steps, companies won’t have to replace employees and won’t have to spend money training new ones.

What’s Next for the Industry?

The past has made it clear that this is just a moment that’ll likely pass, and the market and supply chain will stabilize and rebound to what it was before the pandemic. However, challenges will remain, and there will still be a variety of difficulties to face.

So, it will be up to project owners and contractors to identify cost-saving alternatives that bridge the gap between bid prices and material costs. By implementing these measures, bridge builders can maintain profitability and stay ahead of the competition in a challenging economic environment.

Build With U.S. Bridge

At U.S. Bridge, we know the significance bridges have on the prosperity and growth of a nation. That’s why partnering with a reputable organization with cutting-edge technology and production capabilities is crucial.
Contact us today to start your next project, or check out our premier BridgeScope tool to get a head start on the process.

Since being introduced to the workplace in the 1980s, computers have greatly altered the world including the construction industry. With time, computers and software began to improve the 2D drawing process, along with the ability to perform complex structural calculations and manual drafts, allowing users to complete designs much more efficiently.

Now in 2023, computational design is a new approach to the design process with far-reaching implications. It transforms the way we create by utilizing computer programs and human analysis for artificial intelligence.

What is Computational Design?

Computational design is a technique for creating things that use complex computer processing to optimize a set of predetermined parameters and procedures. Every action taken by a designer is then converted into machine code. Algorithms for generating design models or finishing design analyses are then produced in the software using this data along with factors unique to the current project.

Typically, a designer would utilize computer-aided design (CAD), Bridge Information Modelling (BrIM) software, and their own expertise and intuition to produce designs.

When used correctly, computational design can be a more effective and helpful way to boost productivity and make designs that are more reliable.

The Three Types of Computational Design

In computational design, there are three processes: parametric design, generative design, and algorithmic design. Each one has a different method in the design process.

  • Parametric design employs rules and criteria to provide a design that can be tweaked with little effort.
  • Generative design uses algorithms to provide several potential solutions for analysis.
  • Algorithmic design constructs a model of a design using algorithms.

What are the Benefits?

Once a designer gets through the learning curve associated with using computational design methods, they will be able to create better solutions specific to their project without performing redundant tasks and thus improving productivity and reducing project costs and time.

One of the biggest benefits of computational design is that learning how to code isn’t necessary to take advantage of this tool. Because of this, a whole new world of customization opens up for designers and engineers. While it’s true that there’s no universal program to meet all of our needs, we can build our own systems that can make our software fit our unique projects.

Computational Design in Bridge Construction

The use of computational design techniques in the bridge construction industry is rapidly expanding. With this technology, contractors can put in site-specific details and get suggestions for how to improve operations to boost productivity and cut costs.

While tools become more advanced and powerful, we need to improve our processes to keep up, and computational design allows bridge engineers and contractors to do that.

Leading the Way at U.S. Bridge

U.S. Bridge uses the best-emerging technologies to create strong and reliable bridges quickly. Over the course of our 80+ year history, we’ve built a reputation known for our wide variety of prefabricated types and unique designs that meet your project’s specifications.

Our exclusive BridgeScope tool gives the power to customize a bridge and get a head start on their project. Contact us today for a quote or any other bridge inquiries.
 

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October marks the beginning of Careers in Construction Month, and we’re celebrating the men and women who make up the construction industry. Careers in Construction Month also raises awareness about the various career opportunities within the industry. However, the array of career possibilities doesn’t seem to be attracting newcomers to the construction industry.

In 2021, The U.S. Chamber of Commerce reported that most contractors have difficulty finding skilled workers. Many companies are wondering how they can attract top talent to their construction workforce. We compiled a list of tactics with strategies that can help.

Streamline the Hiring Process

Avoid delayed responses to potential candidates. If your firm experiences delays when seeking new candidates, then chances are your competitors are taking advantage. 

Highly skilled construction workers are in high demand, and as a result, they likely have numerous opportunities available to them. Create an efficient and streamlined hiring process to help quickly secure and attract top talent within the industry.

Streamlining the hiring process begins at the pre-screening stage. By asking pre-interview questions, you can gather information about candidates that might not be within their resume. This can reduce time spent in later interviews, as well as weed out candidates who ultimately wind up ill-suited for the position.

Another way to streamline the hiring process is by understanding the needs of your company. Indeed.com suggests examining your organization’s mission, core values, established goals and what the future of your organization might look like to help attract candidates whose personal values align with yours.

Spice Up Benefits

Spicing up benefits is another option that can attract top talent. This can benefit companies that are low on budget. For example, a report found that 60% of employees consider a benefits package offered to be crucial to their overall job satisfaction. In addition, employees typically look for health and life insurance and employer-matching retirement plans.

Offering benefits such as healthcare can set your construction company apart from the rest. Paying for healthcare out-of-pocket can be a major expense, and talented construction workers often seek out employers offering healthcare benefits. Not only will this attract top talent, but will also help retain them.

Provide a Modern Work Environment

Most employees are looking for a modern work environment. As a result, companies can focus on three areas to help transform their current work into a modern work environment.

Diversity

Creating diversity will allow for a growing labor force and talent pool. Many companies have Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion programs in place to make diversity a top priority.

Flexibility

Employees look for flexibility in the workplace. Though flexibility is difficult for the construction industry due to location-based work, interdependent team roles, and long work hours, guidelines can help create possible or necessary flexibility in some situations. It also raises morale and shows that a company cares about its employees.

Technology

Technology plays a vital role in providing a modern work environment, and since technology is attractive due to its innovative spirit. It transforms a past career into a much more modern, inviting job. Connected cloud-based software, digitized data and workflows, automation, AI, and more are all processes that no longer require multiple steps and extra work.

Work at U.S. Bridge

A career in construction can start here at U.S. Bridge. We’re excited to offer our continuing education credit “Lunch & Learn” webinar series. These events allow you to join in-depth discussions on a wide array of industry topics and get expert tips and practices from our veteran team members. 

As an AISC-certified fabricator and builder, we team up with worldwide clientele, promising you the best educational experience.

Apply now if you’re interested in a career that brings communities closer together!

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New and emerging technologies in construction develop at a rapid pace, making for some major changes in bridge design. They offer engineers more accurate models and detailed analyses of bridges and other projects, making for more advanced construction methods and design software.

Here’s a list of some of our favorite advanced technologies in construction that are great for bridge design and construction!

Building Information Modeling (BIM)

Building Information Modeling (BIM) pairs architects with engineers and construction professionals. This allows for more efficient communication and collaboration throughout the stages of construction. BIM enables engineers and designers to create 3D models that include a bounty of data, from the physical characteristics of a bridge to its functional features.

MIDAS CIM, developed by MIDAS IT, is the world’s first BrIM (Bridge Information Modeling). This is an extension of a BIM that can generate instant and accurate outcomes for all phases of a project. It also provides an integrated platform that connects modelers, constructors, drafters, designers, and engineers in one sole model. It’s currently the only solution that can effectively reduce inefficiencies in cost, time, and communication that a design change can disrupt.

New Construction Materials

With new construction materials, the landscape of bridge construction is vastly different than it was decades ago. One of the newest and best materials for bridge design is self-healing concrete. Traditional concrete is highly susceptible to cracking. However, new concrete mixtures can fill themselves with the help of limestone-producing bacteria that can occupy the cracks of concrete as they form. This will prevent costly damage brought on by unfixed cracks.

Besides concrete cracks, natural disasters are a crucial aspect of consideration for bridge designers. Hurricanes, tornadoes, and earthquakes all impose irreversible damage to different structural elements of bridges. This is costly, however, the advent of new construction materials can skirt these costs.

One such material that is still under research is Superelastic Reinforcement, a shape memory alloy that can return to its original shape even after high stress.

Smart Construction

Smart technology is tremendously impacting the construction industry. This is because the likes of artificial intelligence (AI), virtual reality (VR), drones, site robots, and other construction techniques are now the new norm at every construction site. Bridge construction is no exception. With the help of LiDAR sensors and GPS tracking, bridge engineers can identify the precise location where a bridge will stand, thus greatly minimizing errors.

With today’s technologies in construction, it’s possible to keep track of anything and everything happening on bridges. For example, Kuwait’s Sheikh Jaber al-Ahmad Al-Sabah Causeway included the Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) in its bridge system. The system includes traffic cameras to track movements in the case of an emergency. It also incorporates systems for condition monitoring, and crack detection in its concrete and steel structures to provide overall structural health monitoring.

Computer-Aided Software

Bridge design gets more complicated and powerful as time goes on. Because of this, all-in-one computer-aided software programs are necessary. The software programs must be able to process complex modeling challenges and in-depth structural analyses.

Powerful software with a user-friendly user interface (UI) and intuitive modeling tools will allow bridge engineers to reduce modeling and analysis errors. This will provide a more accurate and reliable bridge design.

Build the Future with U.S. Bridge

U.S. Bridge uses the best materials and methods to create strong and reliable bridges quickly in the industry. We pride ourselves on our broad selection of prefabricated bridge styles and our signature bridge designs that can meet your project needs and leave a lasting impression.

Not to mention, our easy-to-use Bridgescope tool allows anyone to customize their bridge design and get a head start on their projects! Contact us today for any questions or bridge inquiries.

From emergency installations to ordinary bridge replacement, the stability and speed of prefabricated bridges offer communities in need a great opportunity. The Roberts Road Bridge gave U.S. Bridge the opportunity to replace an aging bridge with a brand new, wider bridge. In doing so, the Jackson County community is able to improve the traffic flow around the Little Salt Creek area.

Roberts Road Bridge Design

What was once a 78-foot single-span bridge with a pony truss and a timber deck structure spanning over Little Salt Creek is now a 90-foot span bridge with a steel truss span. The original bridge was built in 1960. Because of this, we were able to widen the aging roadway from 14 feet to 20 feet, allowing for two lanes of traffic. Our vision for the Roberts Road Bridge was not to just widen the bridge and roadway but also to make use of our twin monochord design. This unique feature combines the bottom chord’s gusset plates within its own chord elements. 

State-of-the-Art Materials and Methods

Because of the federal funding used, the Roberts Road Bridge deck construction had to follow ODOT standards. In addition, the railing system also had to follow ODOT standards, utilizing a twin-steel tubular railing mounted on posts anchored to the concrete slab. Expansion joints and bearings also followed ODOT standards, these help separate the superstructure from the substructure. The inclusion of rubber strip seals in steel extrusions, anchored to the back wall and deck with metalized embedment armor, provides for thermal expansion and contraction of the superstructure while steel laminated elastomeric bearing pads support the truss shoe members that support the bridge.

Galvanization

Before assembly and shipping, each element of the bridge’s truss and floor framing system underwent a dip in molten zinc, galvanizing the steel. As a result, rain and snow will not be able to get to the underlying steel. The result is a highly durable coating that has the adhesive strength seven times that of an organic paint coating. A galvanized coating also weathers at a slower rate and can provide corrosion protection for over 100 years, maintenance-free.

Project Information and Technical Specifications

The contractor responsible for construction was DGM, Inc. while we here at U.S. Bridge designed, fabricated and erected the bridge. OHM Advisors oversaw site plans and the installation cost $287,289 and the entire project cost $903,460, all funded by federal dollars. Bridge erection took approximately 5 days after the formwork for the deck slab began.

Build with U.S. Bridge

When you choose to build with U.S. Bridge, you choose to build with a team of engineers and construction experts that commit themselves to building the best-prefabricated bridges. This is why U.S. Bridge is the top choice for developers and contractors. Please contact us and start the building process today! Or get a quick scope with our Bridgescope tool.

Check out our work and see why U.S. Bridge is the best choice for your next project!

With the hot days of summer ahead of us, it is important to remember how to stay safe in the endless summer heat. Just bringing a water bottle with you will not protect you from the harsh summer elements. Safety is a constant concern while at the construction site, and with these summer safety tips you can secure the safety of yourself and your crew.

Tips for Working in the Summer

Skin Protection and Sunscreen

The first tip might seem super obvious, but it’s often overlooked. And that is to apply sunscreen to all exposed areas of  your skin. This doesn’t mean just once before you head out to the site. It’s essential that you reapply sunscreen throughout the day to get the full benefits and protection it offers.

Dermatologists recommend the daily use of sunscreen to prevent photoaging and skin cancer. It’s important to remember that sunscreen acts as a filter and can’t block out sun rays completely. The SPF number is how you figure out how much of the sun’s UVB rays are actually hitting your skin. For example, with SPF 30 it would take you 30 times longer to burn than if you weren’t wearing sunscreen.

Although depending on how long you’ll be outside, SPF 30 may be far too weak to protect you from UV damage.

Sunscreen is a great line of defense, however, it isn’t the only way to keep safe from the sun. Shade also provides protection from the heat that radiates from the sun. In fact, the shade tends to be 10-15 degrees cooler than being out in the sun. If shade is not an option, wearing a hat or clothing to cover exposed areas of skin can provide plenty of protection from the sun.

Drink More Fluids and Watch What You Eat

More summer safety tips include monitoring your diet and fluids. Not just for safety, but also for health reasons. Staying hydrated is necessary for those who are working directly in the heat. So drink plenty of water. Garnishing the water with lemon or lime can replenish the body with lost electrolytes, as can sports drinks such as Gatorade or Pedialyte.

Additionally, it’s also beneficial to avoid high-fat and greasy meals such as cheeseburgers or pizza. These types of meals force the body to use more energy to digest them.

Rest Thoroughly and Schedule Smart

Our next two summer safety tips is rest and smart scheduling. Rest is obviously important for many reasons. Sleep energizes and heals the body, which helps the body handle heat more efficiently. A solid eight hours of sleep can greatly improve performance at the worksite. It also guarantees REM sleep, which is crucial for healthy brain development, memory, and emotional processing.

Along with getting enough sleep, taking breaks can be valuable for crew members. This allows individuals time to cool down from the sun and avoid heat exhaustion. However, it is important to note that radical shifts from hot to cold and back to hot again make the body work harder to adjust. So instead of retreating straight into an air conditioned area, it’s better to retreat to some shade.

In addition to breaks and getting enough sleep, it’s important to establish a set schedule. During the summer the hottest parts of the day are typically between noon and 3 p.m. It would be better to use this time frame to take a lunch break when possible or even find indoor or shaded work to do until the sun is past its peak.

Know the Signs

Above all else, pay attention to yourself and others around you. Overheating, heat strokes, and other heat illnesses can hit fast if you don’t know the signs. If you’re feeling symptoms of hot skin, tiredness, heat cramps, accelerated heart rate, mental confusion, or slurred speech, stop what you’re doing and retreat to the shade and rehydrate. And if necessary, do not hesitate to dial 911.

Ignoring these warning signs can result in serious injury. It’s important to make sure that you discuss and educate yourself and others about these warning signs.

Staying safe in the summer isn’t hard, however, sometimes you need a reminder of what you’re overlooking in your daily routine. Remember these tips and share them with your team to help protect your crew against the summer heat.

Safety is a Top Priority for U.S. Bridge

For over eight decades U.S. Bridge has dedicated itself to the safety of our crew, this guarantees the best quality bridges are perfect for any situation. We are confident that our engineering and manufacturing expertise will fit the needs of your project.

Contact us for a free quote or check our exclusive Bridge Scope tool to start building your project today.

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Every year in May the industry brings attention to different ways we can keep construction workers safe with Construction Safety Week. Although it often focuses on ways we can keep workers safe physically, it also covers mental health issues within the industry as well.

In celebration of this, here are some tips on how construction workers can stay safe and build a more secure industry.

Construction Safety Week 2022

This year, in particular, the theme “Connected. Supported. Safe.” is meant to emphasize mental health safety by encouraging workers to build connections and support within the industry.

In fact, a study conducted by CIRP revealed that 83% of construction workers struggle with mental health issues. As the world and the industry still slowly recover from COVID-19, it’s not surprising that many are bringing attention to this topic.

Connected. Supported. Safe.

Build Connections

Not only do we urge workers to stay connected with their loved ones but we also strongly suggest building connections with fellow crew members. Without a doubt, connection brings comfort, and this brings peace of mind. But building connections within your team and even better, the industry, allows for more open and honest discussions.

This leads to having a healthy work environment where a foundation of care goes beyond profits. In turn, this builds a stronger and safer crew and work environment.

Be Supportive

Though the topic of mental health might feel taboo or negative, the first step is starting the discussion. Discussion allows workers to identify any potential struggles in themselves and helps them to find an appropriate solution. Support crewmates by hearing them out, allowing for a safe and informed workplace.

When a crew member supports another crew member, it is likely to become even more support for the team as a whole. This will also give workers the courage to speak up against unsafe work conditions.

Stay Safe

Safety is the overarching theme, but what does it mean to be safe?

Each crew member has a duty to be constantly aware of any hazardous conditions that might harm the project and fellow crewmates. Communication creates a safer worksite, both verbal and written communication help. But also signage indicating on-site hazards can create a safer work environment.

Supervision is also crucial to any safe worksite. Defining and enforcing safety procedures is essential. A safety-conscious supervisor is capable of enforcing safety procedures. They can also keep an eye on operations, and take corrective action when a worker fails to follow proper procedures.

Continue Learning

What makes an industry safe and successful is when members share new discoveries and methods with each other. Sharing lessons on new innovations on common issues or streamlining tasks will make it a safer and more efficient industry. It will also permit continuous learning. This will ensure workers of all ages, backgrounds, and cultures can join together in making the construction world a much safer place to work.

Take the time to make safety a priority at your worksite. Enforcing safety procedures and standards creates a safer workplace and decreases the chance for error. Starting a conversation on mental health makes for more self-aware crews. Awareness is one of the most important tools to help supervisors support mental health in their worksite.

Stay Safe with a Reliable Team

Throughout our decades of high-quality manufacturing, we have made safety a priority above all else. Our workers and leaders work together in a healthy and collaborative atmosphere. This is how we create the best-prefabricated bridges that the industry has to offer.

Contact us for a free quote or check our exclusive Bridge Scope tool to start building your project today.

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The new home of the Texas Rangers, Globe Life Field, is an architectural masterpiece. Since its opening in 2020, the field has become an icon of downtown Arlington. Given the size, scope, and vision of the entire project, it is no surprise that exposed steel was its chosen material.

Globe Life Field’s Architectural Magnificence

Construction for Globe Life Field began in 2017 and took 38 months to complete. Manhattan Construction Company served as a general contractor for the massive project which incorporates 34,000 tons of steel. 15,000 tons of steel were utilized below the roof and 19,000 tons were devoted to the stadium’s state-of-the-art retractable roof.

 In fact, this retractable roof is the largest of its kind and consists of two rail truss structures; the movable portion and the two fixed roofs.

The construction of the roof used various construction methods. Such as the ground-built 600-ton roof trusses hoisted into place using a 2,535-ton-capacity Manitowoc 31000— the largest crawler crane ever built in the United States. 

In addition, W&W Steel Erectors (WWSE) designed, fabricated, and installed temporary shoring towers, allowing for the long-span trusses and the entire roof to be built from the inside of the field.

Engineered with a Vision

The Texas Rangers pictured a field where fans were as close as possible, and architect HKS designed multiple seating options. All with unobstructed views of the field comprised of seven tiers vertically stacked and leading to seven unique front-row experiences.

“It’s all about intimacy and making the spectators part of the game,” said Greg Whittemore, principal at HKS.

Due to facing the challenge of supporting multiple elevated seating decks and suites above the lower bowl, the engineering group, Walter P Moore had to employ multi-story cantilevered steel trusses concealed within each suite divider. In doing so, it eliminated the need for columns as well as any chance of an obstructed view.

Steel’s Use in the Field

The flexibility of steel allowed for more than just concealing support beams, it also allowed for unique asymmetric steel Y-columns in order to make up for insufficient space. The initial concept envisioned connecting two adjacent suites. However, this would have been at the expense of disrupting the flow of the crowd between the suites.

Shruti Sharma, principal at Walter P Moore, explained that traditional straight columns would have punched right through the lower seating, leaving some seats unusable. By angling the support behind the lower bowl seating, the columns support the party suites from below. This ensures connectivity in the party suites and uses all seats in the lower bowl.

The exposed steel throughout the stadium is practical, but it also creates an incredible view. Walter P Moore and HKS intended for a steel support element for the east box truss at the south side of the venue. In doing so, it creates a signature sloping steel truss column that slices through the seating bowl, creating a dramatic structural feature.

The practicality of this amazing view helps reduce the span of the fixed roof truss to 520 ft from 650 ft.

The Need for Exposed Steel

Walter P Moore credits the flexibility of steel with making all of this possible. The strength, durability, and ductility of steel also give it a unique aesthetic, unlike any other modern ballpark. The exposed structural steel creates an impression that emulates historic ballparks from the past.

Flexibility and durability aren’t the only things that make steel so great for construction. Its lightweight nature makes it a versatile tool for various projects and its sustainable properties save companies thousands.

The Power of Steel at U.S. Bridge

The flexibility of steel proved itself throughout the construction of the ballpark, and in many more projects. As an AISC certified steel fabricator, we are proud to manufacture and build with steel as our primary medium. All of our bridges are manufactured with high-quality, long-lasting materials that are available in a variety of design and support types.

To find out more about U.S. Bridge and our work, please contact us today.

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Data is important in any job and naturally, it’s important for construction. It supports and dictates the decision-making process. However, when that data is incorrect it can make for a costly rework budget.

In 2016, data mistakes cost the United States an outstanding 3.1 trillion dollars in budget overruns and project delays. Over half of that was in the construction industry alone.

Rework in construction means losing time and money for your project. It obviously leads to serious frustrations between team members and clients. But it can be avoided by eliminating bad data.

Eliminating Bad Data

Single Focal Point

Deciding where you could benefit most from having data-driven insight and clear value will maximize your return on investment (ROI). This will encourage organizational buy-in.

For example, some industry leaders start with safety and quality assurance, two areas where data is readily available. Having a single point of focus directs the efforts of individuals, which accelerates the impact of improvements.

Identify your Data

Many firms revealed in a survey that the volume of data they use is overwhelming. They reported feeling lost and not knowing where to start. Though only 36% of the surveyed firms reported implementing a process to identify bad data. In fact, many industry leaders stated that it took nearly two years to completely “clean” their own data.

Preventing this time-hogging undertaking involves standardizing data capture. This can confirm accurate and actionable insight.

Structure your Data

It is extremely important to keep all data in a specific environment. This also means having a single preference solution to any impending situation that might arise. This will help to fuse complementary technology solutions with a strong integration capability to help facilitate the amount of project data.

This will help you avoid not having information or the correct information you need readily available when your construction team needs it. Using a specific data environment also makes collaboration between project managers much easier all while helping avoid creating more bad data and rework in construction.

Double Check Everything

Double-checking everything might be painful and tedious, but much of the bad data is due to small mistakes. According to a report conducted by FMI and Autodesk, 24% of bad data is either inaccurate or incorrect. Simple typos can make a huge difference when collecting data.

Obviously, this will take more time so, create a dedicated team or invest in an outsourced company. By doing something as simple as double-checking your work you can avoid costly mistakes.

Data Management Staff

When hiring staff, look for data management and analysis skills in potential candidates. These skills continue to be a critical advantage for construction firms. Teach and train these skills to employees who do not already possess them.

Firms must also evaluate existing processes and standards in order to better understand where data is bad or incomplete.

After hiring a devoted staff to manage and analyze data, implement a formal data strategy. Doing so will lift the burden from already busy supervisory staff.  Formal training can also help, as it is a common part of implementing a common data strategy. This training can reinforce additional on-the-job training.

Formal data strategies also improve data consistency and insights. It will also take the guessing work out of the equation for project management and field supervision staff.

Save on Rework

It is important to implement all of these key points in the battle against bad data. It is also healthy for a firm to think of new and innovative ways to fight bad data. Use what makes sense, if something doesn’t work, don’t be afraid to scrap it in favor of something better.

Bad data will only create bigger problems down the line, so implementing decisions to preemptively stop bad data now will help you avoid expensive rework in construction projects.

Build with U.S. Bridge

At U.S. Bridge, we work with the highest quality materials and engineers when designing and building bridges. Not to mention, our bridges are well-made, easy to maintain, and available in a variety of design and support types.

With decades of experience and our team of dedicated experts, you can feel confident in trusting an industry leader to build your bridge.

Contact us today for a free quote or use our exclusive Bridgescope tool!

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Construction companies have adopted technology quickly, but because of this, they are more susceptible to cyberattacks. According to NordLocker, construction is at the top of the list of industries targeted by cyberattacks, specifically ransomware. This can result in hundreds, if not thousands of dollars lost for construction companies; which is why many companies are investing in cyber insurance for construction projects.

Here are some reasons why you should invest in cyber insurance to protect your company.

Cyber Attacks

Unfortunately, it appears that cybercrime instances are rising. And while it might seem as if targeting a large corporation would provide hackers with the chance for the biggest return, in actuality, smaller companies are more susceptible to attack. The reason behind this is that large companies have the resources and capital to allocate funds to cybersecurity while smaller companies don’t.

Social engineering is also another form of cybercrime in construction. A hacker may pose as a seemingly trustworthy but unknown person, like a vendor, to gain access to company credentials. Phishing, or the use of fake emails or websites, is a great example of this. A hacker may impersonate another company or individual and send fraudulent emails to access information.

There are a couple of things you can do to help avoid cyber attacks like hiring cybersecurity specialists, training employees to recognize phishing, and automatically backup up your daily data. But ultimately, investing in something like cyber insurance would be better.

Cyber Insurance in Construction

Because of the rise in ransomware and cyber attacks in the industry, cyber insurance in construction is gaining popularity as a preemptive form of protection. Here are some other reasons why companies should consider cyber insurance:

  1. The Rise of Cybercrime
    It’s a fact- cybercrime is on the rise. In fact, one in six construction companies reported a ransomware attack in 2020. Dealing with cyber attacks leaves you vulnerable to data and money loss. Safeguard against any potential loss by investing in cyber insurance for your construction company.
  2. Project Delays
    The true price of cybercrime is the amount of time your business is held hostage. Nowadays, most companies rely on technology to function. Cyberattacks can halt projects and make it difficult to access important day-to-day information. As a result, the loss of business is something that could potentially drag on for days or even weeks.
  3. Reputation
    Customers and contractors may hesitate to do business with you in the future if you have a data breach in your past. It signifies to clients that you are susceptible to cyberattacks and that therefore their data is at risk should they work with you. It doesn’t paint a strong or likable appearance for your company.
  4. Liability Coverage
    Construction companies collect and store valuable information about their clients. By having cyber insurance in construction, companies can protect themselves from lawsuits or fines in the event of a ransomware attack. Not to mention, it brings peace of mind if your company ever becomes a victim of cyberattacks.

Companies spend money to protect physical assets. They must take the same steps to protect cyber assets too. Therefore, cyber insurance in construction is more important than ever.

A Reliable and Trusted Brand

U.S. Bridge works with companies all over the world to build long-lasting and easy-to-maintain bridges. We design our bridges with the latest innovations in mind. Our team brings engineering and manufacturing expertise to every project and safety in every way is important to us.

Ready to start your next project? Contact us today to learn more!

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Although it’s often viewed as a male-dominated industry, the number of women in construction continues to rise. This is due to the fact that the industry offers women a smaller gender pay gap and more opportunities for advancement

In honor of Women in Construction Week, we want to celebrate the achievements of women in the industry.

History of Women in Construction 

Women have played a key role in the growth and advancement of construction throughout history. In fact, without women, some of the most iconic bridges would not be built, such as the Brooklyn Bridge.

The Brooklyn Bridge is a widely-known masterpiece of architecture. However, it would not be complete if it weren’t for Emily Warren Roebling. In 1870, Washington Roebling became bedridden and unable to oversee the continuation of the project. His wife stepped in to fill his position as chief engineer and worked on the bridge until its completion over a decade later.

With time, more and more women continued to play an important role in the industry and even became known as industry leaders. A great example of this is Zaha Hadid, an Iraqi-British architect, who became the first woman to be awarded the Pritzker Architecture Prize. Some of her work includes the Danjiang Bridge, the world’s largest asymmetric cable-stayed bridge with a single tower.

The Impact of Diversity

Despite the low numbers of women working in construction, a recent report reveals that gender-diverse companies are more likely to achieve above-average profitability. It also indicates that companies with at least 30% or more women executive-level positions had a 48% likelihood of outperforming other businesses.  

This means that diversifying your company can have some major advantages. Ensuring a diverse staff can not only help bring women into the industry but can also provide new viewpoints to projects. Schools and education programs can also help by highlighting the value of working in the construction industry.

With more companies chipping away at gender norms, the industry is taking larger steps than ever before at becoming a more diverse and inclusive space for future generations of women.

Women in Leadership Positions

The areas in which women are most underrepresented are in trade and executive positions. The lack of women in these positions makes the industry often appear intimidating. Because of this, many organizations are making efforts to promote more women into leadership positions.

Aside from education, many resources and organizations provide mentorships, marketing, and networking opportunities. Organizations such as the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) provide resources for women to help ensure business success.

There have also been efforts in educating women about the benefits of working in construction. Communities and construction companies have worked together to help bring awareness to the industry by offering boot camps and classes to interested women.

Recruiting Women into the Industry

So what can construction companies do to help women in the industry? Well, one aspect to consider is the way you recruit staff members.

Job Listings

Ensure that your job listings include gender-neutral terms so as to not unintentionally turn off potential candidates. In addition, make sure to highlight the company’s commitment to staff diversity and inclusion.

The Hiring Process

Including women in the hiring process for your company will not only encourage the women applying but also reaffirm your company’s commitment to diversity.

Internal Support

Consider partnering with organizations such as NAWIC and Women Construction Owners & Executives USA for mentorship and conference seminars. An apprenticeship program is another great way to attract women to trade work as well.

Working with U.S. Bridge

Here at U.S. Bridge, we are proud of the women who make up our team in all parts of our operations. It is their hard work and determination that help shape U.S. Bridge into the high-quality business we are known for.

If you would like to know more about our construction process or bridge design feel free to contact us. Also, check out our exclusive BridgeScope tool designed to provide a free quote in just five minutes!

Cash flow for a business indicates how much money they are spending and how much money they are making. A positive cash flow means that the business is earning more money than it is spending. A negative cash flow means the opposite and is a scary proposition for any business to encounter.

Cash flow in construction projects is exceedingly important. Construction jobs often rely on a steady flow of materials and labor to complete them. However, construction projects are often prone to large influxes of cash, say at the beginning of a project. And it may be weeks or months until another payment is made by the client.

This type of cash drought can leave construction teams in a tough spot, especially when looking to pay bills, purchasing more materials, or even meeting their payroll.

Why Forecasting Cash Flow is Important

It’s easy to assume that as long as money is coming in, you won’t encounter any cash flow problems. However, successfully managing your cash flow can also allow you to accurately forecast. By predicting when you’ll be paid and how much, as well as taking account of expenses that are on the horizon, it’s easy to anticipate cash droughts and avoid them. It also helps teams stay on budget. By maintaining a current account of what money has been spent and received, construction teams can see the larger picture of where the job is in terms of the overall budget.

How to Manage Cash Flow in Construction

Managing cash flow in construction projects is namely the same as any other business, but there are a few things you should pay close attention to:

  • Change orders – Process these when received, not when the project is complete. A change order is often the result of inclement weather or a need for more labor, materials, etc. Processing these orders quickly will positively impact the project’s cash flow.
  • Invoices – Don’t wait to invoice clients. Invoice them as soon as possible and as quickly as you can. Many companies expect a 30 day grace period to pay invoices, so in most cases, you’ll still have to wait weeks for the money to appear. You can also provide small incentives for businesses to pay their invoices faster; such as a 2% discount if they pay in 14 days. 
  • Payment methods – Another way to ensure faster payment is to provide multiple ways for clients to pay invoices. Make sure to include electronic payments and credit cards as part of your plan. Electronic payments mean that you get paid quickly and easily which increases cash flow and day-to-day operations.
  • Finance big purchases- Instead of paying all in one go, consider financing big purchases from suppliers. This will allow you more cash on hand to be used for the project. This does mean however that you’re at risk for interest charges but you may be able to write them off as business expenses.

Cash flow in construction companies operates differently than most businesses as not all projects are the same. That means that improving your cash flow in a project may require the use of different strategies.

Build a Strong Foundation with U.S. Bridge

At U.S. Bridge we work with our construction teams to successfully manage all aspects of a project, including cash flow. Please contact us if you would like to learn more about our bridge engineering and manufacturing or are interested in working with us. 

Or check out our exclusive BridgeScope tool for a quick quote today!

Even as temperatures drop, construction work continues. It’s important for worker safety and health, and job productivity for all workers to stay warm as much as possible during winter construction.

While job efficiency is important, an even more important factor is worker health. Without healthy employees, a whole construction can get disrupted and cause delays. The health of any worker is a crucial area of concern during the cold winter months.

Here are five ways that a construction worker can stay warm during the cold winter months:

1. Watch Fingers & Toes

The most exposed parts of our bodies, our extremities, are often the most vulnerable in cold weather. When it’s cold, it forces our bodies to work harder to keep blood flowing to our core.

That means exposed areas such as our fingers and toes are prone to suffer from a cold-related injury such as chilblains or frostbite. Wool socks and warm gloves are the first lines of protection against the cold. If one pair of gloves isn’t enough, look into glove liners.

Also, consider using composite-toe boots as opposed to steel-toed boots during winter construction. Steel-toed boots can exacerbate the cold by not keeping your toes warm. Though a steel toe does offer more protection for your toes, a composite toe boot will keep your toes warm throughout the cold day. Hand warmers and feet warmers can also help keep you warm. Plus, they can be easily concealed.

2. Stay Dry

Nothing is worse than being cold and wet at the same time, especially on cold and slushy days. Sometimes winter construction means snow, sleet, rain, or a messy combination of all three. If it’s not bad enough to shut down the site for the day, be sure to stay dry.

Wearing moisture-wicking material close to your skin will help keep moisture from lowering body temperature. One last way to stay dry is probably the most obvious, but goes without saying; invest in a waterproof outer layer as well for even more protection against damp weather.

3. Have Extra Pairs of Everything

Imagine yourself waking up on a cold winter morning, you are getting ready for the workday, and you put on your favorite pair of long johns, and you find a giant hole in the most inconvenient spot. Now you have to go through the day with a giant hole in your long johns, exposing yourself to a cold, damp tundra.

Avoid this nightmare situation by investing in extra pairs of gloves, socks, liners, moisture-wicking material, and of course, long johns. It’s also a good idea to dress in layers, so some of these extra items might be used to double up when it gets frigid for extra warmth.

4. Keep Your Head and Neck Covered

As mentioned in our first tip, keeping your extremities covered is vital to staying warm and often overlooked extremities are our ears and neck. Ears get cold extremely fast and while it’s a myth that you lose a majority of your heat through your head, it’s still wise to keep your head covered while out in the cold. Earmuffs, a warm scarf and a turtleneck will go a long way to insulating your body heat while enduring the cold weather.

Ears can be overlooked as an extremity, but they can get cold fast.

5. Fuel Your Body

Have a thermos with you of a hot beverage or soup to help you stay warm. Your body uses a lot of energy when you’re working, especially in the cold so it’s important to have hot beverages and meals to fuel your body. Eat an extra meal or consume hot caffeinated beverages to help you stay warm and also fight the lethargy of the cold.

During winter construction, it also helps to take frequent breaks and give crews somewhere to get warm. Make sure your workers are aware of the signs of overexposure and what to do.

All of these things will help to keep you warm on a construction site.

Build with U.S. Bridge

At U.S. Bridge, we work hard to meet the needs of our staff, our customers, and the industry with our attention to detail, our high-quality materials, and our skills.

Interested in starting your project with us? Contact us for a free quote or check our exclusive Bridge Scope tool to start building your project today.

A large-scale construction project can easily take hundreds of people from different trades to complete. But how do so many different individuals from various skills and backgrounds, work together to finish a job on time? Here are some ways to consider to improve collaboration in your construction projects.

Poor Communication Has Consequences

We all know that poor communication causes misunderstandings and can set work back in any field. But how significant is poor collaboration in an industry like construction?

Well, without a well-thought-out plan, every phase of the construction project will suffer. Poor collaboration will lead to misunderstandings, slow turnaround times, errors, and wasted time. Every delay can open the door to a number of claims or expensive penalties depending on the type of project and contract.

Investing in ways to improve collaboration can preemptively avoid these situations.

Ways to Improve Collaboration

Start at the Beginning

Every project starts with a roadmap. Use the early planning stages to bring together key players, discuss project details, establish everyone’s roles, and define expectations. Even though this may seem fundamental, it’s important that individuals feel that the project allows and insists on open communication. This will help foster better work relations among crew members and make collaboration easier.

Not to mention, this makes it easier along the way to develop plans to handle any issues that may arise.

Look for Collaborative Tools

With the rise of technology in construction, there are so many different digital tools that can help improve collaboration. Investing in a digital platform can keep your team organized, make task management more efficient, and help coordinate schedules between various employees.

There are a lot of cloud-based collaborative management systems designed for the construction industry such as Procore, PM Web, Prolog, Expedition, BuilderTrend, and Viewpoint. Users will have access to project information, make changes, and share files easily with internet access.

Plus, these systems can help track the completion of different areas of the project. That way, each team knows how far along the others are and can use that information to make decisions about their own work. This will streamline the communication process and make back and forth exchanges easier and faster. Not only would this save you time and effort but it also holds teams accountable for their work.

With so many different options available, it’ll be easier to choose a system that works best for you and your team.

Invest Now & Save Time and Money Later

Although it may be a higher initial cost to incorporate methods of improving collaboration, it’s worth it in the end. A successful project collaboration allows you to reduce inefficacies in manpower, money, time, better on-time project delivery, better company reputation, and higher ROI.

In fact, a report discovered that “companies that build high levels of trust can save millions of dollars annually from benefits that include lower turnover rates, fewer missed schedules, and more repeat business”.

Work Smarter with U.S. Bridge

Our 80 years of construction experience is why we can handle construction projects of various caliber. We are confident that our engineering and manufacturing expertise is just what you’re looking for to complete your project! 

Contact us for a free quote or check our exclusive Bridge Scope tool to start building your project today.

When thinking about technology in the construction industry, it’s easy to picture electric vehicles, pneumatic drills, and other technological advancements in equipment. However, one area that often gets overlooked is the increasing use of computers and digital tech. Even artificial intelligence has a place in the new world of construction.

How Technology is Changing the Industry

Last year’s shutdown pushed the use of technology that made many companies not only realize its inevitability but also the benefits it provides. As construction projects require many different partners, the need for technology that streamlines business operations is on the rise. The application of these digital tools not only optimizes projects but the industry as a whole in areas such as:

  • Employee productivity & efficiency
  • Cost reductions
  • Job and asset flexibility

One of the reasons for this change is the increase in data. Thanks to the growing use of technology and computers, more data is made for construction projects. Thus, causing data analytics to gain popularity in engineering and construction to how companies can use it to improve their business process.

However, according to a study by FMI, 95% of the data collected in the industry goes unused. This highlights perhaps the two biggest issues about technology in the construction landscape- adoption and integration.

It’s possible to collect data on everything from worker efficiency and supply chain delays to overall project costs. Unfortunately, it’s a challenge to use this information when so many of these new technologies aren’t integrated.

Not to mention, the tools that companies need to integrate all of their data may not exist yet. And, even if they do, it may require a hefty upfront cost.

The Growing Use of AI

Another new technology that’s changing the construction industry is artificial intelligence. The term AI describes a machine or computer that is able to do functions similar to humans such as problem-solving or pattern recognition. Machine learning is a subset of AI that uses statistical techniques to analyze large amounts of data. It can do a range of actions like notify project managers about an error, filter out spam emails, or advanced safety monitoring.

Another example of AI in construction is Building Information Modeling. BIM helps engineers, architects, and other professionals to efficiently plan and design structures by using virtual simulation to create 3D models of projects. It saves companies time and money while also providing stakeholders with 3D models to analyze the impact of projects.

Success with U.S. Bridge

Technology is a great tool that is transforming the construction industry. Learn more about the ongoing changes in technology in the industry in our blogs. Or, find out more about how U.S. Bridge has everything you need to make your project a success through our website!

Contact us for a free quote or check our exclusive Bridge Scope tool to start building your project today.

Construction sites are a common place for trespassing and theft to occur, especially when working on residential and commercial sites. In fact, a study conducted found that less than 25% of all items stolen from construction sites are ever recovered. Strong construction site security can keep workers safe, save companies money, and keep projects on time.

Here are some key tactics to consider for maintaining a tight security and keeping your workers and materials safe.

Fences & Locks

Secure fences and locks are a great way to deter trespassers. Make sure that your construction site has a perimeter fence with strong locks to protect equipment storage, expensive supplies, and data. For an even more effective site security, consider tools like electronic locks with keycard or code access.

It’ll provide stronger protection and appear more intimidating to thefts or invaders. Plus, you can even limit access to areas of the job site for certain individuals.

Posts Signs Around the Site

Don’t underestimate the benefit of a well-placed sign. Signs that the site is under 24×7 video surveillance, as well as fines and penalties, can go a long way. This is a great option especially for construction sites that are left unoccupied for extended periods. Having signs around will often prevent theft and vandalism from young trouble-makers looking to stir up some trouble. 

Invest in the Right Tools

Video surveillance systems are a great construction site security solution. They can perform multiple functions, including a full view of your site, 24/7 motion-recording, or even thermal detection. Some systems are also monitored live by security companies who can directly contact the authorities if needed.

Nowadays there are a lot of different options for alarm systems. Instead of getting a loud overbearing alarm, consider a silent alarm that directly notifies essential personnel. This way you can avoid panicking workers or the thief and catch them without delaying the project.

If an alarm system is out of the budget, bright lighting is another great option that will keep your workers and materials safe. Not only will it make it easier for your crew but tools like floodlights make it difficult for thieves to hide or operate unseen. This can discourage them from stealing from your site to look for easier prey. 

On-site Security 

Hiring on-site staff is always an option when you’re looking for strong construction site security. However, this option may be better suited for bigger construction projects or those in residential and commercial areas. Depending on your location, you should be able to find various options for private security for hire.

While it may seem unnecessary, it can save you not only the money of replacing equipment and tools but also lost project time. Compare the costs against purchasing tools like cameras and an alarm system vs personal security to determine which option works best for your project.

Keep Meticulous Records

One easy and effective method for preventing theft is tracking tool usage and inventory. Knowing that at the end of the day someone is checking the items may dissuade workers from attempting to swipe a small piece.

Keep detailed records of what materials and machines are on your site. Write down serial numbers, the equipment’s PIN, or use barcodes to keep easy track of your items and where they should be. Consider registering with companies like the National Equipment Register or the Heavy Equipment Registration to register your heavy equipment. Registering your equipment will help law enforcement to locate and recover your stolen items.

Construction site security concerns everyone involved in the project. Enforce a zero-tolerance policy regarding site access and site conduct. This policy along with the tips above should keep your construction site safe.

Build with U.S. Bridge

With decades of bridge design and building experience, U.S. Bridge is proud to work with companies all around the world. Our bridges are well-made, easy to maintain, and available in a variety of designs. We are confident that our engineering and manufacturing expertise will fit the needs of your project. Contact us on our website to learn more about our bridges or how we can help you with your project. Or fill out our exclusive BridgeScope tool for a quick quote!

Whatever span you need to cross, U.S. Bridge has what you need.

On August 10th the Senate passed a $1 trillion infrastructure bill intended to invest into America’s economy and roadways. The approval on the 2, 702-page bill came after months of negotiations and deficit concerns. This past Monday, President Biden signed the new bill into law.

The Infrastructure Bill

After passing congress in a 69-30 vote, the bipartisan $1 trillion infrastructure bill was later signed into law by President Joe Biden— providing one of the biggest investments in infrastructure in over a decade.

The bill is said to encompass physical structures such as roads, bridges, waterways, and airports. And it includes around $550 billion in new spending, as well as $450 billion in previously approved infrastructure investments.

The idea behind the bills’ spending allocations is to combine the urgent need to fix the country’s deteriorating infrastructure while also tackling long-term goals such as climate change. That’s not all, the hope is that a sequel of the bill will be proposed in later years.

Regardless, the Congressional Budget Office still fears that the $1.2 trillion infrastructure bill would increase federal budget deficits. This assessment, however, was rejected by negotiators who argue that the CBO did not adequately consider the revenue the bill would generate.

Estimated Benefits

Aside from greatly improving America’s infrastructure system, another major goal is to greatly boost the economy. The bill proposes around $110 billion to replace and repair roads, bridges, and highways, and $66 billion for passenger and freight rail. This marks the most significant investment into the country’s railways for almost half a century.

An additional $55 billion is intended to repair the U.S. water supply; as well as $65 billion to improve the country’s power grid. A small portion of the bill is devoted to rehabilitating waterways, improving airports, and expanding broadband Internet service.

These surges of construction projects are intended to ensure new jobs across the country and a steady rise in the construction industry.

In Senator Portman’s speech regarding the bill, he stated, “It will improve the lives of all Americans.” And continues with “People do expect here in America, [with] this great economy we have, we should also be able to lead the world in infrastructure. But we don’t.” The hope is that the infrastructure bill will provide the improvements necessary to revamp the country’s infrastructure.

Build with U.S. Bridge

U.S. Bridge is an industry leader and expert with projects and experience all around the world.

Visit our blogs for more information on the construction industry or our services. Get a quote from us for your next bridge project or learn more about our steel bridges. Together, we’ll build a better future for America’s infrastructure.