Thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic, last year was anything but predictable or normal. Predictions for 2021 are cautiously optimistic with a combination of positive and some negative growth for the construction industry, arguably one of the largest sectors worldwide. Although large hotel and higher education projects have declined recently, others have increased, such as healthcare facilities and warehouse construction to meet current needs.

Because of measurements put in place to keep everyone safe, businesses have had to change how they function and communicate both internally and externally, limiting in-person interactions. This has also caused delays in some projects. The need to know what is happening on a job site has become greater than ever. As a result, even in an industry that is otherwise resistant to embracing new technology, construction has seen an increase in adoption of construction-specific technology, from BIM to 3D-printing, facilitating a more versatile way of working.

Without further ado, here are the top eight construction trends predicted for 2021.

1. Keeping focused on safety with continued social distancing, protective gear and enhanced protocols for cleanliness
2. Increased hiring for seamless execution of current and unexpected future projects
3. Implementation of construction-specific equipment and technology to supplement a declining workforce
4. Expanded distribution and manufacturing facilities to meet current e-commerce demands
5. More complex urban development and infrastructure projects
6. Renewed focus on sustainability and renewable energy
7. Expanded use of modular construction, increasing quality while also reducing costs and project timelines
8. Increased construction cost and pressure on the bottom line, as net profits remain slim

Construction companies must prepare themselves for the uncertain future. Luckily, with many recent innovations already in place, the construction industry has begun to optimize processes in all phases of construction.

Key developments in the construction industry will likely continue to grow and change as we progress through 2021, and we look forward to it.

Digital Builder, 2021 Construction Trends: 20 Insights from Experts, 12.17.20

Construction Dive, 2021 Outlook: 6 Trends that Will Influence Construction this Year, 1.04.21

Chad Fisher Construction, Commercial Construction Trends For 2021, 12.07.20

Method:CRM, Key trends in the construction industry for 2021, accessed 1.19.21

Let’s Build, 5 construction trends you want to look out for in 2021, accessed 1.19.21

Recently, companies have been more concerned about the health and safety of their buildings due to the COVID-19 outbreak. Not only are they worried about keeping current employees and customers safe and happy, they also want to attract new talent and tenants. It is important to address the virus-related concerns since many people are now thinking about the air quality of the buildings they will be spending their days in. So, what can companies do to improve the overall health of their buildings?

Expand on Current Inspections
In most buildings, facility managers have already upgraded their building to include health conscious features like indoor plants, water bottle filling stations and natural lighting fixtures, along with regular inspections of HVAC and other systems. As we continue to live through the pandemic, companies need to look beyond just operating efficiently to help people feel safe.

In addition to regular inspections for wear and tear, businesses should examine unseen systems, such as ventilation and cleaning protocols, which could be just as vital for safety as a leaking ceiling or a crack in a sidewalk.

Keep Fresh Air Flowing
Recycling air from one room to another can increase the risk of airborne viruses also transferring. With growing concern of viruses spreading among people in close quarters, improvements to existing ventilation systems are needed. Increasing the amount of outdoor fresh air, along with purifying existing air in the building through bi-polar ionization can go a long way. While opening windows can be a quick fix, most buildings don’t have that option.

Reducing Transmission through Touchpoints
Install equipment such as toilet sensors, touchless soap dispensers and faucets, foot door pulls, and sensory lighting to minimize touchpoint transmission. For surfaces that must be used communally, consider an antimicrobial coating system to reduce the likelihood of transmission.

Encourage and Enforce CDC Recommendations
If there are areas of your building where restrooms aren’t nearby, consider installing hand sanitation stations to encourage regular hand washing.
Be sure all employees and guests are wearing masks or face coverings and wearing them properly, covering both their mouth and nose. Also, remind them to safely social distance when interacting with one another.

Evaluating your building’s current systems and equipment can help to identify ways to improve air quality, boost equipment performance and often leads to discovering new ways to increase energy savings.

RK Service’s expertly trained team of technicians can evaluate your facility, provide recommendations and build a custom products package to fit your needs. Call 877.576.9696 or email service@rkservice.com to schedule an appointment. For more information about our commercial HVAC/R systems evaluations and upgrades, click here.

What Makes an Office Building “Healthy”,  April 29, 2020, Harvard Business Review

Retro-Commissioning: Significant Savings at Minimal Cost, March 5, 2013, Building Efficiency Initiative

How COVID-19 has Increased Interest in Air Quality Testing, September 22, 2020, JLL

Making health and safety a priority in the workplace is important, and mental health is no exception. An employee’s mental health can affect their attitude and behavior, which in turn affects how they communicate with other staff and their overall productivity.

RK is committed to ensuring our employees experience a healthy work environment when they come to work each day. If you are looking for ways that your company can provide a more mentally healthy workplace during these trying times, look no further. Below are some tips to get you started.

• Promote work/life balance by offering employees more flexibility.
• Increase senior leadership engagement, encouraging open and realistic communication.
• Offer training on stress management for high-risk jobs.
• Provide opportunities for mentoring and coaching.
• Involve individuals and teams on important decisions, when possible.
• Help employees get support during and after stressful life events.
• Offer generous sick leave and accommodations for when employees need it most.
• Perform regular well-being checks on staff.
• Have a zero tolerance policy for bullying or discrimination.
• Discuss mental health in the workplace and promote resources, trainings and programs, including company participation in community and national events.
• Encourage employees to do their part:
  • Look after themselves and find ways to reduce their stress.
  • Ask for support if they need it.
  • Be supportive of coworkers who are going through a rough time.

Inclusive workplaces can positively influence community attitudes towards mental health. Investing in mental health not only benefits employees, but also creates a more positive and productive environment, often giving companies a better bottom line. In addition, companies that care about staff wellbeing are more likely to attract and retain top talent.

Mental illness and substance abuse issues cost employers billions each year. While promoting a healthy workplace will not stop all mental health problems, it can help improve mental strength, keeping employees as healthy as possible. Creating a mentally healthy workplace is a clear win-win for both companies and employees.
 

Mentally Healthy Workplaces during COVID-19, accessed December 2, 2020, National Mental Health Commission – Australia

The Boss’ Guide to Creating a Mentally Healthy Workplace, December 10, 2018, Psychology Today

Healthy Workplaces, accessed December 2, 2020, Mentally Healthy Workplace Alliance

A big part of the Movember movement, which occurs every November, is bringing men’s health issues, such as prostate and testicular cancer, to light. Because they aren’t often discussed, many men may not be very knowledgeable about them. Below are some important facts that all men should be aware of regarding prostate and testicular cancer.

Prostate Cancer

Nearly 10 million men around the world have been diagnosed with prostate cancer, making it the second most common cancer in men.

Some men may experience changes in urination or sexual function that could indicate prostate cancer. However, not everyone experiences symptoms. Signs of prostate cancer are often first detected during a routine check-up.

Early detection of prostate cancer can mean the difference between life and death. Chances increase with age, but it does not only affect older men. It’s suggested that men get tested at 50. Men who are African American, and those with a family history, are more than twice as likely to get prostate cancer and should consider being tested sooner.

Testicular Cancer

While testicular cancer is relatively rare, it is the most common cancer in young men between the ages of 15 and 35, striking many during their prime.

The best thing men can do to catch testicular cancer early on is to check their bodies monthly. If something doesn’t seem right, like a change in size or shape, a new lump, or pain to the touch, they should make an appointment to see a doctor right away.

Men with a family history of testicular cancer, or those who had undescended testes at birth, are at a higher risk, as well as people who’ve previously been diagnosed with testicular cancer.

There are many different treatment options available, but as with all forms of cancer, early detection, diagnosis and treatment provide the best chance for a full recovery. The Movember Foundation wants to ensure that no man goes through prostate or testicular cancer without the knowledge, resources and community they need. This support gives them a chance to bounce back, feel stronger and go on to live happier, healthier, longer lives.

1. Movember Foundation, Prostate Cancer. Accessed October 28, 2020

2. Movember Foundation, Testicular Cancer. Accessed October 28, 2020

3. Movember Foundation, Quality of Life. Accessed October 28, 2020

Movember, a combination of the word moustache “mo” and “November,” is an annual event that involves growing moustaches during the month of November. The focus is on raising awareness of men’s health issues, such as prostate and testicular cancer, poor mental health and suicide prevention.

On average, men die six years earlier than women do, often for reasons that are preventable. Men also account for 75% of all suicides worldwide.

So, what can men do to live happier and healthier lives? According to the Movember Foundation, these are the top five things men should do.

1. Spend time with friends and family: Being around people who make you feel happy is good for your mental health.
2. Talk more: Supporting one another by listening and being there can make a big difference. Connect with someone you suspect is going through a mental health crisis with the ALEC
3. Know your risk: Is there a history of cancer in your family? If so, talk to your doctor and consider being screened sooner than later.
4. Give yourself regular checks: Get to know what is normal for your body and check regularly. If you notice something that isn’t right, contact your doctor right away.
5. Get moving: Add more physical activity to your day. Try simply walking or biking more.

In a culture of masculinity, it can be challenging for men to open up about their feelings or health concerns. Another roadblock is that men’s health issues are not discussed enough. Movember hopes to bring positive change by kicking off the discussion worldwide each November.

Women can help by sharing this information with the men in their lives and encouraging them to be extra hairy during the month of November.

Movember Foundation. Men’s Health. Accessed October 27, 2020

PBS. The culture of masculinity and its negative impacts on men, September 8, 2019. Accessed October 27, 2020

Construction jobsites always impose general risks to the health and well-being of workers. Taking all safety precautions seriously, and proactively implementing measures to mitigate them is extremely important. With autumn upon us and winter right behind, there are few additional construction safety concerns to consider in keeping workers safe.

Flu Shots

Autumn is the start of flu season, and doctors recommended all adults get vaccinated against the flu. Health experts warn that the addition of another respiratory illness, such as the flu, on top of catching the ongoing COVID-19 virus could land people in the hospital much faster. Avoid the possibility by getting your flu shot now.

Ladder Safety

Autumn weather can leave the ground wet and muddy, making it harder to place ladders securely. Gusty winds may even knock over some ladders. In addition, messy boots can also cause slipping as workers ascend. Remember these tips for ladder safety:

• Clean any excess mud or water off boots before climbing on a ladder
• Use the right ladder for the job and inspect it before using
• Never do these:
  • Place the ladder on unstable ground
  • Climb higher than the third rung from the top
  • Try to move a ladder while you are on it

Respirators and Facial Hair

With November, also known as Movember, just around the corner, men will grow mustaches to raise awareness for men’s health issues. Workers need to be aware that facial hair could compromise a respirator’s seal. As long as the facial hair does not protrude under the respirator seal or interfere with the device’s valve function, there should be no issue. Short mustaches, sideburns and small goatees usually do not present a hazard, but always ensure that masks fit properly and snug before beginning work.

Review Standard Procedures

Now is a great time to remind employees about standard procedures that may not regularly be discussed on jobsites. Below are some important examples to cover during fall safety meetings.

• Evacuation: Remind employees of the designated meeting area and the importance of them going there in an emergency.
• Fall Arrest Systems: Provide a refresher on how to inspect fall arrest systems and ensure that they are fitted, rigged and anchored properly.
• Hearing Protection: Remind workers that while loud machines can cause hearing loss very quickly, lower decibel levels can also cause irreparable damage over time.
• Hand Protection: Remind employees to use the right gloves for each task and to keep them on until they are finished to avoid hand injuries.

Safety should always be the top priority on a construction site. Following these autumn safety tips can help ensure knowledgeable and safe workers. For more safety tips, visit the OSHA website.

Earlier this year, RK was featured on Denver 7 News in a story called “Construction company serves as national model for suicide prevention,” which highlighted the importance of removing the stigma around mental health in the workplace.

As an employer of skilled trades’ workers, one of the professions with a high rate of suicide, we take precautions to support and listen to our employees. The construction industry’s high rate of suicide stems from mental health issues, addiction, and a constantly changing job market. To ensure employees have a safe space, we have implemented certain initiatives, such as:

• Open communication culture that encourages employees to express their opinion and emotions in productive, healthy ways
• Mental wellness toolbox talks
• Suicide prevention training for all managers and supervisors
• Annual suicide prevention campaign with informative posters, social media posts, blogs and other company-wide messaging

In addition to RK’s efforts, Construction Industry Alliance for Suicide Prevention (CIASP) suggests companies consider implementing the following resources at work to help reduce the likelihood of suicide.

• Issuing Wallet cards with warning signs and helplines to all employees
• Using Hardhat stickers to promote the CIASP STAND UP pledge
• Making screening tools accessible to help employees identify potential mental health issues
• Sharing Joyages Construction Industry Resource Page & Videos with teams to build awareness
• Asking your employee assistance program provider to present sessions on mental health and coping techniques

RK values our employees and understands the importance of mental health and wellness. Not only do we want our employees to receive the best mental and physical healthcare available, but we’d also like to help other companies provide access to the resources they need to do the same.

If you, or someone you know is contemplating suicide, please reach out to one of the numbers below to get help right away.

1. INTEGRATION RESOURCES, Construction Industry Alliance for Suicide Prevention

The refrigerant R-22, also known as chlorodifluoromethane, was banned earlier this year and is currently illegal to make or bring to the United States. It contains HCFCs, or greenhouse gases, that cause damage to the ozone layer when released into the atmosphere. In order to slow the environmental damage that has already occurred, governments have worked together to limit the number of ozone-depleting substances that can be used.

For years, R-22 refrigerant has been in the process of being phased out. Systems that run on it have likely reached their lifespan and are no longer effective. So, if an older R-22 system springs a leak, a tough decision has to be made. Facility managers can either retrofit the system for a replacement refrigerant, or replace the system entirely. Upgrading and retrofitting old R-22 infrastructure to work with a replacement refrigerant can save equipment, energy, money and the environment.

ALTERNATIVE REFRIGERANTS

• R-407C is a zeotropic blend of three hydrofluorocarbons.
  • Difluoromethane serves to provide the heat capacity, pentafluoroethane decreases flammability, tetrafluoroethane reduces pressure
  • Drop-in is not recommended in cases of low refrigerant levels, a full clean-out must be performed first
• R-421A by Choice is a newer option and considered the refrigerant of the future.
  • No unit oil change required, unlike other R-22 alternatives
  • With no measurable pressure difference to R-22, retrofitting is simple and familiar
  • A blend of only two refrigerants, R-421A exhibits consistent box temperatures
• R-458A TdX 20 by Bluon is a blend of five commercially used refrigerants. It delivers virtually identical capacity performance, significant energy savings, and extended equipment life.
  • Average 15% energy savings vs R-22 (up to 25%)
  • Virtually identical capacity to R-22 (+/- 3%)
  • No oil change required; works with POE and MO
  • Operates at lower pressures and temperatures
  • ASHRAE & EPA approved, warranty protected
• MO99 (R-438R) by Freon offers the closest performance match to R-22.
  • Compatible with all traditional and new lubricants, including mineral oil (MO), polyolester (POE) oil, and alkylbenzene (AB) oil
  • Drop-in replacement for R-22; doesn’t require an expansion valve or line set changes
  • Does not require an oil change
  • Easy maintenance once the retrofit is complete
• RS-44 (R-424A) is a non-flammable mixture of HFC 134a, HFC 125, iso-pentane, butane and isobutene.
  • Compatible with mineral traditional lubricants, alkyl benzene and also with synthetic POE
  • Drop-in replacement for R-22, providing an easy and long-term solution
  • Risk of humidity in the refrigerating equipment is avoided
  • Lower discharge temperature eliminates oil decomposition problems

RK Service’s expertly trained team of technicians can evaluate the refrigerant in your commercial system, recommend the right replacement option and execute the required retrofit or replacement. Call 877.576.9696 or email service@rkservice.com to schedule an appointment with one of RK Service’s expert technicians today.

Prevention

Recognizing warning signs of suicidal behavior is the first step in prevention. The following actions may indicate that someone is thinking about suicide.

• • Talking about: feeling hopeless or trapped, death or wanting to die, ways to commit suicide, having great guilt or shame, feeling unbearable pain (physically or emotionally), or being a burden to others
  • Acting anxious, enraged, agitated or withdrawn
  • Giving away important possessions or making a will
  • Suddenly using excessive alcohol/drugs or taking unnecessary risks like excessive speeding
  • Changing eating or sleeping habits
  • Saying goodbye to friends and family

If there is concern that someone may be contemplating suicide, ask them in a discreet and supportive way. Depression can prevent people from opening up. So, if you really believe something is wrong, keep asking and tell them about the changes that you have noticed in them. While it isn’t always easy, asking if an at-risk person has a plan and removing or disabling the lethal means can save their life.

Intervention

If they admit that they are suicidal, be there for them. Listen carefully about what they are thinking and feeling. Acknowledging and talking about suicide can actually reduce suicidal thoughts. Refer them to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255) and the Crisis Text Line’s number: 741741 for further support. Getting them to a trained professional is important, as they may need to be hospitalized until the crisis has passed.

If you can, consider removing harmful objects from their home that could be used for suicide, such as knives, firearms, ropes, pills and household cleaners containing dangerous chemicals. If the person takes a prescription that could be used for an overdose, encourage them to have someone else safeguard it.

Once someone has made it through a suicide crisis, they will still need ongoing support. Meeting regularly with a therapist is highly advised to work through the issues that brought them to considering suicide. This can help them find coping strategies in case thoughts of suicide begin to emerge again. Honoring milestones, like making it through another week or month is a great way to move forward with healing.

Additionally, after you have helped someone through a suicide crisis, staying in touch with them can make a big difference. Suicide death rates go down when someone regularly follows up with the at-risk person.

Even though it can be frightening to help someone through a suicide crisis, it is important to take action.  Most suicides can be prevented if the warning signs are recognized soon enough. By reaching out and getting them the support they need before it’s too late, you can help to save a life.

National Suicide Prevention Hotline:
1.800.273.8255 (English)
1.888.628.9454 (Espanol)
1.800.273.8255 (Deaf and Hard of Hearing)

Crisis Text Line:
Text “Hello” to 741741

With vacations on hold, fewer people are taking time off work than ever. Many employees feel that they are either too busy to take time off or that they might miss something important by not being there. Some feel guilty for taking the time, believing that they will not be considered dedicated to their job.

The added pressures of the pandemic aren’t helping matters. More employees are reluctant to use their vacation time because of lingering uncertainty, feeling they must prioritize work above all else. The threat of businesses closing or downsizing has many employees wanting to prove that they are dedicated and necessary to the business’s success.

On top of this, mental health has been negatively affected. More than half of adults in the U.S. have worries and stress related to the pandemic. From adjusting to working from home, where employees are working longer hours because they have a hard time distinguishing work versus home life, to concerns of family members getting sick. Moreover, with all of the frightening news and, for some, suddenly becoming a homeschool teacher, everyone is stressed far more than they probably even realize.

Saving all of your vacation time for the holidays or a potential sickness may not be the best idea. Even if travel isn’t possible, occasionally taking a couple of days off to recharge mentally is beneficial. You can use your time to clean up the house, knock out some projects that have been on your list for a while, visit a lake or river for a day of fun in the sun with the family or just order takeout and relax on the couch. Regardless of what you do, taking some time for yourself is necessary to avoid burnout.

Not using the vacation days that you have earned is like working for free. So take off an occasional day or two and detach from work during that time. Regular time off can rejuvenate employees, making them happier and more productive. It also helps to reduce stress levels and improve overall health, possibly even increasing overall lifespan.

In fact, humans can’t endure long periods of stress without experiencing burnout unless they allow for adequate recovery time. What are you waiting for? Request some scheduled days off now and start recharging your mind and body.

1. Rachel Pelta, Why You Should Take Time Off During the Pandemic, FlexJobs, May 15, 2020

2. Shannon McMahon, TRAVELING MAY NOT BE SAFE, BUT LEAVING VACATION DAYS BEHIND ISN’T HEALTHY EITHER, Washington Post, August 12, 2020

3. Heather Smith, Encourage Taking Time Off — Yes, Even During A Pandemic, Forbes, July 14, 2020

4. Vicky McKeever, Why it’s still important to take days off work, if you can, while in lockdown, CNBC, April 22, 2020