Did you think about the fact that when you started your job, you became part of the construction industry family. Yes, it is your job, and yes, it is your career but there is also a strong feeling of belonging that comes with the commitment to building a life in the construction industry.

The ‘family’ of construction includes not only the people you work with every day, but it also embraces your immediate family members and the community you live in as well.

Like any Family, this feeling stems from several shared connections:

• Shared Experiences
• Teamwork and Collaboration
• Long-Term Relationships
• Culture and Traditions
• Network of support

These connections are crucial, for every stakeholder in our industry as:

A support system
The construction industry often involves demanding physical labor and long hours, which can take a toll on workers. The family provides emotional support, encouragement, and understanding during challenging times. Whether it's listening to concerns after a tough day at work or providing a comforting presence during periods of stress, family support is invaluable.

A safety net protecting your well-being
Safety is a top priority in construction, and the family plays a vital role in promoting it. By understanding the importance of safety protocols and practices, family members can encourage their loved ones to prioritize safety on the job site. They may also notice signs of fatigue or stress and encourage workers to take breaks or seek assistance when needed, contributing to overall well-being.

A way to maintain work-life balance
Balancing work responsibilities with family obligations can be a challenge in the construction industry, where projects often have tight deadlines and unpredictable schedules. Family support helps workers maintain a healthy work-life balance by providing stability, understanding, and flexibility. This support enables workers to recharge and rejuvenate outside of work, leading to increased job satisfaction and productivity.

A fellowship to celebrate achievements with
The family celebrates the successes and milestones of construction workers, whether it's completing a challenging project, receiving recognition for outstanding work, or achieving career advancements. These celebrations foster a sense of pride and accomplishment, motivating workers to continue excelling in their careers.

A portal for passing on knowledge and Values
Construction often runs in families, with skills and knowledge passed down through generations. Family members play a crucial role in this transfer of knowledge, teaching younger generations about the industry's traditions, techniques, and values. This continuity ensures the preservation of essential skills and that core values such as craftsmanship, integrity, and teamwork are upheld.

A way to connect with a larger community
Construction families are often deeply rooted in their communities. They contribute to the local economy, support community events and initiatives, and participate in charitable activities. By engaging with their communities, construction families strengthen social ties and demonstrate their commitment to making a positive impact beyond their work.

These connections are fundamental to the success and sustainability of the construction industry.

The London and District Construction Association (LDCA) serves as a valuable family connection within the local construction industry. As an organization that represents and supports construction professionals in the London, Ontario region, the LDCA plays several important roles that contribute to a sense of community and family within the industry:

• Networking Opportunities
  LDCA provides networking events, meetings, and social gatherings where construction professionals can connect with one another. These events foster relationships and create a sense of camaraderie among members, akin to a family gathering.
• Education and Training
  By providing access to ongoing learning opportunities, the LDCA helps members develop professionally and stay abreast of industry trends, strengthening the collective expertise within the "construction family."
• Advocacy and Representation
  LDCA advocates on behalf of its members to address common challenges, promote industry interests, and influence policy decisions. This advocacy work helps create a supportive environment for construction businesses and professionals, fostering a sense of solidarity and belonging within the industry family.
• Community Engagement
  By giving back to the community, LDCA members demonstrate their commitment to making a positive impact beyond their professional endeavors, further strengthening the sense of family and shared purpose within the industry.
• Resource Sharing and Support

Through LDCA, members have access to valuable resources, including industry reports, best practices, and business support services. This sharing of resources and knowledge fosters collaboration and mutual support among members, creating a culture of assistance and cooperation within the construction family.

LDCA serves as the local construction family hub helping cultivate a strong sense of family connection and unity. It is why we have member companies who have been with us for over 125 years and why members continue to seek out membership with LDCA. We are family.

Taking it on the Chin
 Hard hat technology is changing for the better.

Jan, 2024

Currently, over 50% of all critical injuries and deaths in the construction industry in Ontario are caused by falls from heights.  To address existing gaps in Ontario’s safety regulations, leading construction contractors have engaged industry stakeholders, including partners like Milwaukee Tool, to help improve hard hat technology and worker safety.

Chin straps hard hats are beginning to replace traditional hard hats.

Here are some recent innovations and trends in hard hat technology:

• Improved Materials
  Modern hard hats are often made from lightweight yet durable materials such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or fiberglass-reinforced plastic. These materials provide excellent impact protection while reducing fatigue during long hours of wear.
• Customization Options
  Many manufacturers now offer customizable hard hats, allowing workers to choose colors, designs, and accessories that reflect their personal preferences or company branding. This not only boosts morale but also promotes a sense of identity and pride among workers.
• Increased Comfort Features
  Ergonomic design features such as padded sweatbands, adjustable straps, and ventilation systems are becoming more common in hard hats. These features help improve comfort, reduce pressure points, and enhance airflow, especially in hot and humid working conditions.
• Integration of Technology
  Some hard hats are now equipped with integrated technology, such as built-in communication systems, LED lights for improved visibility in low-light conditions, and sensors to monitor environmental factors like temperature and humidity. These innovations help enhance safety and efficiency on construction sites.
• Smart Safety Features
  In recent years, there has been a rise in smart hard hats equipped with sensors and connectivity capabilities. These hats can monitor vital signs, detect hazardous conditions, and even alert workers and supervisors in real-time in case of emergencies, further improving safety on the job site.
• Sustainability
  With increasing focus on sustainability, there's a growing interest in eco-friendly hard hat materials and manufacturing processes. Some manufacturers are exploring options like recyclable materials and energy-efficient production methods to reduce environmental impact.

Here are some reasons why contractors might move to hard hats with chin straps:

• Increased Protection
  Hard hats with chin straps provide a more secure fit, reducing the risk of the hard hat falling off or becoming dislodged during work activities. This increased stability ensures that workers are consistently protected from head injuries, especially in situations where there is a risk of falling objects or debris.
• Heightened Awareness of Safety
  Implementing hard hats with chin straps sends a clear message to employees about the importance of safety on construction sites. By making this change, EllisDon demonstrates their commitment to prioritizing the well-being of their workers and creating a culture of safety within the organization.
• Prevention of Accidents
  Chin straps help prevent hard hats from being knocked off or displaced by sudden movements or accidents. This added level of security can significantly reduce the likelihood of head injuries caused by insufficient head protection, ultimately contributing to a safer work environment for construction workers.
• Standardization and Consistency
  Adopting hard hats with chin straps across all construction sites ensures standardization and consistency in safety practices within the company. This uniform approach helps streamline safety protocols, training procedures, and equipment management, making it easier to enforce and maintain high safety standards across different projects.

Using and wearing hard hats properly is essential for ensuring the safety of construction workers on site.

Here are some best practices for using and wearing hard hats:

• Select the Right Type
  Choose a hard hat that meets the specific safety requirements of the job site and is appropriate for the hazards present. Consider factors such as electrical protection, impact resistance, and compatibility with other personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Proper Fit
  Ensure that the hard hat fits securely on the head and does not sit too high or too low. Adjust the suspension system or straps to achieve a snug and comfortable fit. The hard hat should sit level on the head and cover the top of the skull, providing adequate protection.
• Chin Strap
  If the hard hat is equipped with a chin strap, always wear it and adjust it to keep the hard hat in place, especially when working at heights or in windy conditions. The chin strap helps prevent the hard hat from falling off or being knocked loose during work activities.
• Keep Clean and Well-Maintained
  Clean the hard hat regularly with mild soap and water to remove dirt, debris, and contaminants. Avoid using harsh chemicals or solvents that could weaken the material. Store the hard hat in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures to prolong its lifespan.
• Replace When Necessary
  Hard hats have a limited lifespan and should be replaced according to the manufacturer's recommendations or if they become damaged, worn out, or involved in a significant impact. Do not use a hard hat that has been compromised in any way, as it may not provide adequate protection.
• Wear Properly with Other PPE
  Ensure that the hard hat is worn properly with other required PPE, such as safety glasses, hearing protection, and high-visibility clothing. Avoid modifying the hard hat or attaching accessories that could compromise its integrity or interfere with its function.
• Training and Education
  Provide training to workers on the proper use and care of hard hats, including how to inspect, adjust, and wear them correctly. Emphasize the importance of wearing hard hats at all times when on the job site, regardless of the task being performed.

By following these best practices, construction workers can effectively use and wear chin strap hard hats to protect themselves from head injuries and ensure a safe work environment on construction sites.

LDCA members can find Milwaukee Vented Hard Hats at Home Depot Canada

Upskilling in the Construction Industry = Workforce Development.

London & District Construction Association, January 2024

The construction industry is one of the most dynamic and diverse sectors in the world. It employs millions of people and contributes to the economic and social development of many countries. However, it also faces challenges, such as skilled workforce shortages, environmental regulations, dealing with new technology, and expanding competition. To overcome these challenges and stay ahead of the curve, our industry needs to invest in upskilling its workforce.

Upskilling is the process of acquiring new or improved skills and competencies that are relevant to the current and future needs of the industry. Upskilling can benefit both employers and employees in various ways, such as:

• Improving productivity and quality: Upskilling helps workers perform tasks more efficiently and effectively, resulting in higher output and lower costs. It can also enhance the quality of work and reduce errors, defects, and rework.
• Increasing innovation and competitiveness: Upskilling fosters creativity and problem-solving skills among workers, enabling them to come up with new ideas and solutions that can improve the performance and profitability of the industry. It can also help workers adapt to changing customer demands and market conditions, giving you a competitive edge over the competition.
• Enhancing career prospects and job satisfaction: Upskilling can open up new opportunities for career advancement and personal growth for workers, increasing their employability and income potential. It can also boost their confidence and motivation, making them more satisfied with their work and loyal to their employers.

The benefits of upskilling for employees in the construction industry

Upskilling is the process of acquiring new or improved skills and knowledge that are relevant to one's current or future job role. It can take various forms, such as formal training, online courses, mentoring, coaching, self-study, or on-the-job learning.

Upskilling can benefit employees in the construction industry in several ways, such as:

• Enhancing their performance and productivity. By learning new techniques, tools, methods and best practices, employees can improve the quality and efficiency of their work, reduce errors, and waste, and deliver better results for their clients and employers.
• Increasing their employability and mobility. By expanding their skill set and qualifications, employees can increase their chances of finding new job opportunities within their current organization. They can also access higher-level positions that require more specialized or advanced skills.
• Boosting their confidence and job satisfaction. By developing new competencies and achieving new goals, employees can feel more confident and capable in their work. They can also enjoy more variety, challenge, and creativity in their tasks, which can increase their motivation and engagement.
• Preparing for the future. By keeping up with the latest trends and innovations in the construction industry, employees can anticipate and adapt to the changing needs and demands of the market. They can also prepare for the emergence of new roles and functions that may require new skills or knowledge.

Great examples of upskilling in the construction industry are:

• Learning how to use new tools and equipment, such as drones, robots, 3D printers, etc.
• Acquiring new certifications and licenses, such as LEED, BIM, OSHA, etc.
• Developing new skills and knowledge, such as project management, digital literacy, or sustainability and green building practices.

Taking a strategic approach benefits the employer, employee, and the industry.

To achieve these benefits, the construction industry needs to adopt a strategic approach to upskilling its workforce. This involves:

• Identifying the current and future skills gaps and needs of the industry, based on market research, customer feedback, industry standards, and best practices.
• Developing a comprehensive upskilling plan that outlines the objectives, targets, methods, resources, and timelines for upskilling the workforce.
• Implementing the upskilling plan through various channels, such as formal training programs, on-the-job coaching, mentoring, online courses, workshops, seminars, webinars, podcasts, etc.
• Evaluating the impact and outcomes of the upskilling plan, using quantitative and qualitative indicators, such as productivity levels, quality measures, customer satisfaction ratings, employee retention rates, etc.

Upskilling is not a one-time event but a continuous process that requires constant monitoring and improvement. The construction industry should regularly review its upskilling plan and update it according to the changing needs and expectations of the industry. By doing so, the construction industry can ensure that its workforce is always ready to face the challenges and opportunities of the future.

Upskilling is a win-win for all stakeholders.

Upskilling is not only beneficial for employees, but also for employers and the industry as a whole. By investing in the development of their workforce, employers can gain a competitive edge, improve their reputation and customer loyalty, reduce turnover and recruitment costs, and foster a culture of learning and innovation. The industry can also benefit from having a more skilled, diverse, and adaptable talent pool that can meet the current and future challenges of the sector.

LDCA members can find courses to help them upskill, including Health and Safety as well as soft skills and technical training, on the LDCA website at www.ldca.on.ca .