Category: Expert Columns
-
Understanding Concrete Slab Load Capacity
Concrete slabs form the backbone of countless industrial and material-handling facilities. Whether supporting heavy machinery, mezzanines, pallet racks, or conveyors, a slab must be able to bear concentrated loads. Yet, too often, insufficient analysis of load capacity results in costly over-engineering or catastrophic structural failures. The good news is that many pitfalls associated with improper…
-
Work Smarter, Not Hotter: Temperature Regulating Gear That Keeps Crews Going
As temperatures rise and work environments grow more demanding, the need for reliable temperature-regulating personal protective equipment and workwear has never been greater. Whether indoors with limited ventilation or outdoors under direct sun exposure, heat stress poses a serious risk to worker health, safety, and productivity. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can lead to fatigue,…
-
Repairing Floor Joints | For Construction Pros
Jointed warehouse floors typically require repairs during their service life. Some floors require more repairs than others, depending on the design, construction, and exposure conditions, especially floors exposed to small-wheeled forklift traffic. Joint edges of both contraction and construction joints spall (break off) when either the joint filler is no longer protecting the edges from…
-
Re-Building a Resilient Concrete Infrastructure: Averting Concrete Corrosion
On February 26, 2025, the residents of Dockside Condominiums in Charleston, S.C. were given a mandatory evacuation notice and just 48 hours to get out of their building. Engineering inspections had indicated that the building may be structurally unsafe. For many, this will bring to mind the tragic partial collapse of Champlain Towers South, a…
-
U.S. Infrastructure Is Stuck In The 20th Century
On March 10, 2025, the U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy rescinded certain memos issued by the Biden Administration which added guidelines to federal infrastructure project spending. These guidelines included special considerations for so-called “social justice” issues, environmental concerns, and equity-first design. It was another step in the Trump Administration’s efforts to dismantle the infrastructure…
-
Safety Tips for Equipment Rentals in Earth Drills
When it comes to operating a powerful earth drill, safety is key. Helping rental customers understand and implement safety measures can reduce the risk of injuries and help ensure a smooth, efficient digging process. From preparing the worksite and checking equipment to following proper operational procedures, here are key steps to help them maximize safety…
-
Latest Updates in Hydrodemolition Technology
The rate at which technology evolves is increasing. Gone are the days of advancements taking a decade-plus to develop. In some instances, technology can become outdated in a matter of years, maybe even months. Think of a smartphone. The latest devices have built-in artificial intelligence and augmented reality features that the average person had barely…
-
Understanding Spalled Concrete Joints | For Construction Pros
Deteriorated or “spalled” joints are the number one problem in a concrete floor. Saw cut contraction/control joints and construction joints create interruptions in the concrete floor’s surface. These interruptions create impact points along the joint edge and joints are then subject to deterioration or damage by the crossing wheels of material handling vehicles, pallet jacks,…
-
What OSHA’s PPE Rule Revision Means for Women in Concrete
Pouring concrete is dangerous work. Cement dust irritates the eyes, skin, and lungs. Holding a pump hose is hard on the hands. Tip-toeing across rebar is tough on the feet. Now, imagine trying to get that concrete poured while wearing floppy goggles, oversized gloves, an ill-fitting safety vest, and overly bulky work boots. That’s exactly…
-
5 Tips for Choosing the Perfect Backhoe for Your Jobsite
Backhoes are the ultimate multitaskers on jobsites, tackling everything from digging and trenching to loading and lifting. With so many options available, how do you find the one that’s just right for your needs? The key is focusing on the features that will make your work easier, faster and more efficient. Whether you’re in construction,…