The TTC has posted a Request for Prequalifications for Miscellaneous Construction Services. Interested parties are requested to download the document from MERX (Reference No. R11PF16835).

On July 1, 2016, new requirements to improve protection to workers exposed to 85 decibels over 8 hours is in effect. It is designed to help protect workers from noise-induced hearing loss, a significant problem for many Ontario construction workers.

WorkSafe’s fall prevention focus kicks off in July and this week’s Absolute Shocker is a timely reminder that shortcuts are all too common in the construction industry. Click the headline for the article.

Hazard awareness is one of the more difficult parts of the COR process, and to help OGCA Members, eCompliance is providing us with the use of this new tool, free of charge. Click here to see a sample from one of our members.

You can access the module here.

The PCL family of companies is pleased to announce that two of its projects have been recognized by Engineering News Record’s (ENR) Global Best Project Awards, an annual competition that highlights teamwork and overcoming hurdles of designing and building internationally. Click on the headline to read the full press release.

The senior partners at Ball Construction: Jason Ball, President, Cameron Ball, Vice President and Gary Hauck, Vice President are pleased to announce that 18-year estimator and project manager Rod Aitken has been welcomed as a new partner. Rod immediately assumes the role as Vice President focusing on Pre Construction activities for Design Build and Construction Management projects and LEED certifications. In 1998, Rod graduated from Conestoga College in the Construction Engineering Technology program in Kitchener. Soon after, he joined the Ball team as an estimator and has been an invaluable contributor and dedicated team member ever since. "I am excited and grateful to join the partners of Ball Construction." noted Mr. Aitken,"This is an excellent company to be a part of. A firm with such a long history of building great facilities across Ontario, I look forward to many more years of continued success." "Congratulations Rod from everyone at Ball!" For further information contact Rod Aitken at 519-745-7365 x344. Or visit the Ball website at www.ballcon.com.

To see a copy of the latest CCA Board minutes, please click the headline.

The Supreme Court of Canada will soon be called upon to address the legal issues resulting from a heavy equipment operator using cocaine on the job and causing a serious accident. The Alberta Court of Appeal decision in Stewart v Elk Valley Coal Corporation[3], ("Elk Valley Coal") is critical for how it addressed the permissible scope of drug and alcohol policies in safety sensitive workplaces. In particular, Elk Valley Coal suggests that workplace policies promoting proactive, preventative disclosure of addiction and dependency issues without fear of discipline are not discriminatory. The case is critical for employers who face workers who use alcohol and drugs at work and put other workers and the public at risk of harm.

OSHAWA -- In a rousing speech to Durham residents, retired general Rick Hillier shared why it was so important to remember those who fought for Canada, especially those who gave their lives. On June 2, Mr. Hillier was the special guest at the Highway of Heroes Durham LAV monument launch and fundraiser held at the RS McLaughlin Armouries, home of the Ontario Regiment, in Oshawa. The fundraiser supported the installation of a monument in Clarington overlooking the Highway of Heroes to honour Canadians who served in Afghanistan. If you are interested in becoming part of this initiative, please contact Thomas Quigley (Thomaspquigley@gmail.com), or click on the headline for more information.