NOTES FROM THE PUBLISHER

NOTES FROM THE PUBLISHER

It’s no coincidence that this year’s first issue of Construction Today focuses on safety. Across every inch of commercial construction, safety must always come first. It’s the foundation that builds successful teams and projects and a large part of what distinguishes the best contractors from the rest. And while the need for safety is ever present, it’s also a practice that’s ever-changing as standards and approaches are continually enhanced to protect the industry’s most valuable asset: our workforce.

As you’ll see in one of our feature articles, “Construction leaders step up to build a safer Philadelphia,” on page 28, GBCA is taking the lead in offering a full suite of resources — such as on-demand online safety trainings and more than 100 mobile-friendly Toolbox Talks — that help members and non-members stay at the forefront of safety. We’re also proud to continue our close partnerships with

OSHA, the Mid-Atlantic Construction Safety Council, and the Philadelphia Building Trades Council as we raise awareness for critical safety campaigns.

Throughout this issue, you will see other insightful articles from our members related to key aspects of safety, from company policies and culture (see “Culture Beats Compliance” on page 30), and individual mental health (see “Make Mental Health a Priority” on page 34).

It’s phenomenal to see how GBCA members are finding new ways to integrate safety throughout their firms and into every job. Keep an eye out for more information coming soon about nominations for GBCA’s Annual Project Safety Awards, which will be honored at our Safety Awards Reception in July. We’re looking forward to spotlighting even more members that are delivering projects with zero OSHA recordable injuries or illnesses, and showcasing their exceptional safety records.

Safety is everyone’s job. As we learn from and with one another in the spirit of continuous improvement, we will all grow stronger together.

Byron Lee, Ph.D.

Senior Manager, Marketing & Communications General Building Contractors Association