VOL. 62 ISSUE8 AUGUST2021 • GUAM CONTRACTORSʼ ASSOCIATION
COMPLETING THE CONNECTION
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GCA Construction News Bulletin Aug Ad 2021.indd 1
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
12
16
CONSTRUCTION NEWS BULLETIN
AUGUST
2021 8
S.A.M.E. UPDATE
10
SMALL BUSINESS NOTES
12
FEATURE STORY
16
PHOTO HIGHLIGHTS
18
MEMBER BENEFITS
20
NEWSLINE
24
REPORTS/ INFORMATION
NOW ACCEPTING ONLINE PAYMENTS VIA PAYPAL
VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR MORE INFO 2 | AUGUST2021
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EDITORIALS
CONSTRUCTION NEWS BULLETIN
THEDIRECTORS
THEEDITORIALS
THETEAM
PRESIDENT James Martinez Guam Contractors’ Association
Guam Contractor’s Association (GCA) in conjunction with Adztech and Public Relations, Inc. publishes the Construction News Bulletin (CNB) monthly. Reproduction of materials appearing in this publication is strictly forbidden without written permission by GCA.
PUBLISHER: James Martinez
CHAIRMAN Bill Beery Tutujan Hill Group VICE CHAIRMAN Grace Jacot SET Pacific
While we always strive for accuracy, we will from time to time overlook mistakes. In order to help us improve the quality and accuracy of this publication, we ask that you take the time to look at the information provided and notify GCA or Adztech of any corrections as needed. Opinions and editorial content of this publication may not necessarily be those of the publisher, production team, staff, GCA members, GCA Board of Directors and advertisers.
SECRETARY/TREASURER John Sage Pacific Rim Constructors Inc. PAST CHAIRMAN Peter Errett Hawaiian Rock Products CONTRACTOR DIRECTORS: Don McCann Black Construction Corporation
For more information about advertising in the GCA Construction News Bulletin contact the advertising department at (671) 477-1239/2239 or email at adztech@teleguam.net.
Lucia Wood APTIM Joe Roberto East Island Tinting
Distributed to GCA members or can be obtained by stopping by the Guam Contractors’ Association office located at 506 Mariner Ave., Barrigada, Guam 96913
Hunter Groom Hensel Phelps Albert Smith SmithBridge Guam ASSOCIATE DIRECTORS: Jose Garcia First Hawaiian Bank
To find out more about how you can become a GCA member contact Guam Contractors’ Association at Tel: (671) 647-4840/41 Fax: (671) 647-4866 or Email: gca@teleguam.net. www.guamcontractors.org
Mark Cruz MidPac Far East Bill Bernardo Conwood
AD SALES: Jaceth Duenas PRODUCTION: Jason Davis Geri Leon Guerrero Christopher “Taco” Rowland PHOTOGRAPHY: GCA Trades Christopher “Taco” Rowland EDITOR: Adztech CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Pete Diaz Rodney “RJ” Ricarte Rebecca Gale GCA STAFF: Desiree Lizama Elaine Gogue Francine Taitague Trevor Cruz COVER: We’re doing a look into Electrical Contracting this month.
Postmaster. Send address changes to Guam Contractors’ Association, located at 506 Mariner Ave., Barrigada, Guam 96913
Camilo Lorenzo Matson Navigation
GCA
PRODUCTION TEAM LEAD: Geri Leon Guerrero
TRADES ACADEMY B u i l d i n g
S k i l l s
F o r
A
L i f e t i m e
Guam Contractors Association
4 | AUGUST2021
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PRESIDENT’S LETTER
CONSTRUCTION NEWS BULLETIN
PRESIDENT’S LETTER Hafa Adai! GCA Members: In this month’s GCA General Membership Luncheon meeting, Mr. Greg Massey, Administrator for the Alien Labor Processing and Certification Division (ALPCD) of the Guam Department of Labor, will talk to GCA members on current updates of the H2B program, including trend in denials, especially with civilian projects seeking supplemental foreign workers. The GCA lawsuit is ongoing and has not been resolved as of late. Chief District Court of Guam Judge, Frances Tydingco-Gatewood will render her decision and we are just waiting for that outcome. It seems that denials in the H2B processing are increasing again, in spite of the provisions in the 2021 NDAA that allow contractors on both military and non-military construction projects to avail of foreign skilled labor to supplement their local workforce. My understanding is the USCIS is now requesting more information to show that the military construction work has cannibalized a lot of the local workforce and left but a handful for other contractors working on commercial and residential construction outside the military enclave. With opportunity, comes challenges; and the skills gap in the construction industry is one that has been around for a long while. GCA is exploring more options in the way training our local people to take on these opportunities and raising more awareness within the community on these opportunities. I remembered the old saying, “You can lead a horse to water, but you can’t force it to drink”. I guess we have to wait until they’re really thirsty, but with the free money going around lately, complements of the federal government, it’s hard for anyone to look for a job if you can just stay home and earn money doing nothing but watching tv. At some point, the money will stop flowing, but by the time that happens, the water might just run dry! I understand the concept of helping people in need, especially in these unprecedented times of the pandemic era. Give the additional cash to those who chose work over free money, and let’s see how many unemployed people will flock to look for work. I’ll get off my soapbox now and work on programs to lead to sustainable work in a highly skilled and high wage career in the construction industry. Sometime soon, GCA will be a launching a formal Pre-apprenticeship program. Pre-apprenticeship is a program or set of strategies designed to prepare individuals for entry into Registered Apprenticeship Programs (RAP) or other job opportunities. Pre-apprenticeships may last from a few weeks to a few months. We’ve always had a Registered Apprenticeship Program under the GCA sponsorship, but never have we had a pipeline that would lead or graduate to that level. With a formal Pre-apprenticeship Program, we structure the curriculum to give the pre-apprentice a taste of the different trades in the industry under the NCCER Construction Craft Laborer and CORE curriculum. Upon completion of the program, the pre-apprentice can then graduate into a Registered Apprenticeship Program (RAP) and all the courses and work hours they’ve accumulated during their pre-apprenticeship is credited to their RAP. The GCA Pre-apprenticeship Program will also be articulated between employer, employee, and program sponsor (GCA). Just like a RAP. We are currently putting the program together and seeking funding to offer this program free of charge to all participants. The caveat is that upon graduating from the program, they must indenture into a Registered Apprenticeship Program under a new articulation and agreement between the employer, employee, and program sponsor. At this point, RAP participants receive training paid by the Manpower Development Fund, which is generated from fees paid by the contractors annually for each H2B workers they sponsor to work here. This is a work in progress, and we hope to roll out the program soon. This will run in parallel with GEDA and GDOL program where the Government of Guam will pay $9.75 per hour (up to 12 weeks of wages) to employers who hire those people who were unemployed for over four weeks and qualify under the GEDA/GDOL program. This GEDA.GDOL program is planned to launch in September of this year until funding runs out. Stay tuned for more information on both these programs. Dångkulu na si Yu’us ma’åse’ James A. Martinez President Guam Contractors Association
Guam Contractors Association
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Used Equip. Used Equip. GCA GCA.pdf A.pdf
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S.A.M.E. UPDATE
CONSTRUCTION NEWS BULLETIN
Society of
NEWSLETTER AUGUST 2021
American Military Engineers
ANNOUNCMENTS Join our Board and Committees! Reach out to Scott Thompson (scott.thompson@coffman.com) or Noel Enriquez (nenriquez@macdonaldbedford.com)
JULY GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING RECAP:
COMMUNITY & DEFENSE ENGAGEMENT Vera Topasna, Executive Director, Community Defense Liaison Office (CDLO), Office of the Governor, presented at our July General Membership Meeting. In her position, Vera serves in an advisory/liaison capacity to the Governor and Lt. Governor of Guam on military actions and policies.
SAME Century Book Is now available. It’s the exclusive, official publication marking the first 100 years of the Society of American Military Engineers. To order visit: www.same.org/centurybook
The CDLO oversees over $16 Million in Department of Defense (DoD) grant funding to support the following projects and programs: Compatible Land Use, Grants Management & Certification, Cultural Repository, Public Health Laboratory Bio-Safety Level 2/3, Medical Action Planning Grant, Port Modernization, and the Defense Community Infrastructure Program. NDAA FY22 initiatives currently being tracked include Noise Mitigation, Climate Change, Career & Technical Education Pilot Program, Guam Defense System, and Veterans Initiatives.
SAVE THE DATE
The DoD Office of Local Defense Community Cooperation (OLDCC) tracks defense spending in the States and Territories. For FY 2019, the following defense spending information on Guam was presented: Source: https://oldcc.gov/defense-spending-state-fiscal-year-2019
09-11 AUG 2021 (ChST) Virtual Post Leaders Workshop is open to any Post leader, director, officer and it’s FREE! Visit: www.same.org/plw 29 SEP 2021 (ChST) Indo-Pacific Industry Forum Hosted by the SAME Honolulu Post 11-13 NOV 2021 Charlie Corn Scholarship Golf Tournament Venue: STARTS Guam Golf Resort For more info or to register, visit: www.same.org/Guam/Golf For details or questions, contact John Paul Dierking, (johnpauld@khlgassociates.com) Upcoming August Meeting
MAIN PRESENTATION
CNMI Defense and Community Engagement Presented by: Glenna Palacios, Special Assistant to the CNMI Governor for Military Affairs 19 AUG 2021 www.facebook.com/SAMEGuamPost 8 | AUGUST2021
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Website: www.same.org/Guam facebook.com/GuamContractors
Two-person Team, select ball (scramble), modified Peoria Handicap*
STARTS GOLF RESORT DEDEDO, GUAM TEAMS CAN CHOOSE ONE ORE MORE PLAY DATES
First prize = 2 x $350 Second prize = 2 x $300 Third prize = 2 x $250 Best gross score = 2 x $200
Thur, Nov 11 / Fri, Nov 12 / Sat, Nov 13
Opportunity to win great prizes on select par 3 as “hole-in-one” prizes
$125 per person/$250 per team (2) or $75 per person/$150 per Team (2) (Active Duty and Fed Gov Employees Only)
Each entrant receives a Ditty Bag, Boxed lunch, and on-course refreshments *Note: Peoria Handicapping systems “level the playing field” – favor the poorer player and disfavor the better player
(Each day is limited to the first 60 players to sign up)
Show time: 11:30 am
General Registration
Corporate Sponsorship Sponsorship Levels: Platinum: $2,000 Gold: $1,000 Silver: $500 Bronze: $300
For more Info or to Register Visit: www.same.org/Guam/Golf
42nd Annual 2021 CHARLIE CORN ALL GOLF COVID-19 RULES APPLY For more details, you may contact: JOHN PAUL ‘JP’ DIERKING johnpauld@khlgassociates.com Mobile: +1 671-482-5108
SCHOLARSHIP GOLF TOURNAMENT
SMALL BUSINESS NOTES
CONSTRUCTION NEWS BULLETIN
join our SB Community! • The GCA Small Business Committee supports small business members of the association to ensure their voices are heard and needs are met within GCA capabilities. • Do you have an issue or concern that we might be able to assist with? • Do you have an idea or suggestion that may benefit our small business community?
L-R: James Martinez, Joe Roberto, Adam Baron, Bill Bernardo, Elaine Gogue, Theresa Crisostomo, Tom Roberto, Jaylene Kent, Gerardine Mendiola, Jane Ray, Philip Leddy, Ken Lujan.
HELP US HELP YOU BY JOINING US AT OUR MONTHLY MEETINGS OR CONTACT: Lucia Wood (Chair) Theresa Crisostomo (Vice-Chair)
(671) 777-8425 lucia.wood@aptim.com (671) 588-5972 theresac@jwsguam.com
GUAM PTAC FREE Live Webinars Cybersecurity: Federal Contractor Responsibilities
08/19 2021
The Department of Defense (DOD) is requiring cybersecurity certification for vendors. We will discuss the best way to comply with DOD's requirement. The upcoming Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) and the DFARS Interim Rule will be discussed.
Marketing to the Federal Government
08/26 2021
The government buys products and services differently than the private sector. The Guam PTAC will discuss marketing strategies, essential documents, and how to get your company on “the list”.
The Guam Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC) is offering FREE webinars to the public for August 2021. Webinars run from 10am-11:30am and will be conducted via Zoom. Links to the live webinar and the webinar evaluation will be emailed to all registered attendees 15 minutes before the start of the webinar. Register at: guamptac.ecenterdirect.com For more information, contact the Guam PTAC at (671) 735-2552 or visit www.guamptac.com
Guam SBDC Training Schedule Post Pandemic Employee Engagement and Retention Workshop Friday, August 27, 2021 • 10:00 am - 12:00 pm Registration Deadline: Friday, August 27, 2021 Understanding how COVID19 pandemic has affected the employee life cycle in small businesses. What managers should know about the relation between talent acquisitions, employee engagement and retention, and learning & development. Learn what are best practices to help improve relationships between managers and employees, and create a thriving and safe work environment.
10 | AUGUST2021
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A look at the
and its earning power
CONSTRUCTION NEWS BULLETIN
“You have to remember that these electricians are skilled but also very heavily theory based. So you’ll find guys who are dirty as hell but they are doing calculus and trigonometry.” - Gil Yanger, Department Chairman for the Construction Trades, Pre-Architectural, Civil Engineering and Surveying Programs at the Guam Community College. ---During the height of the pandemic, a number of people came to the realization that having a skill that others needed, no matter what disaster they were facing, could also be a means of survival. Many Guam residents opted to take courses in construction, to include, the area of electrical trade. After all, as noted by the U.S. Department of Labor, just about every building has an electrical power, communications, lighting, and control system. These systems power the lights, computers, appliances, and equipment necessary in today’s workplace and homes. Gil Yanger, Department Chairman for the Construction Trades, Pre-Architectural, Civil Engineering and Surveying Programs at the Guam Community College, said they saw an influx of residents from various backgrounds enroll in electrical and other construction and skilled courses this past year. As a general contractor of 20-plus years himself, he said good and certified electricians are needed in the industry and can make “a very decent living.” “We always say in the field, any (person) can install anything, but if you want it done right, you get someone certified,” Yanger said. Electricians install, maintain, and repair electrical power, communications, lighting, and control systems in homes, businesses, and factories, U.S. DOL states. Included in
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FEATURE STORY
their duties are: • Read blueprints or technical diagrams • Install and maintain wiring, control, and lighting systems • Inspect electrical components, such as transformers and circuit breakers • Identify electrical problems using a variety of testing devices • Repair or replace wiring, equipment, or fixtures using handtools and power tools • Follow state and local building regulations based on the National Electrical Code • Direct and train workers to install, maintain, or repair electrical wiring or equipment “People can get killed in bad installations" As with many other professional fields, Yanger said electricians, in general, are recognized, hired and promoted according to their level of knowledge, competency and work ethic. “The industry demands that you be there everyday to work and be there on time,” he said. “We don’t want hotshots. We want people who are willing to come out and do the work, who are willing to learn their trade and maintain skills.” He said most people might be surprised to learn that electricians are also amazing mathematicians. “You have to remember that these electricians are skilled but also very heavily theory based. So you’ll find guys who are dirty as hell but they are doing calculus and trigonometry,” Yanger said. “They’re having to create systems for distribution and supply. They have to look at loads … these guys aren’t out there just installing stuff they have to study and know what the system is being used for.” “At the end of the day, even with all this new technology, electricians have to connect the power source to the
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FEATURE STORY
CONSTRUCTION NEWS BULLETIN
utility … it’s become more sophisticated over time, but that in general hasn’t changed,” he acknowledged.
earned less than $33,810, and the highest 10% earned more than $98,720.
However, he added, the level of responsibility hasn’t changed even with new technology, which has helped in terms of designing and installing systems but also has created new levels of know-how to properly power everything from a blow dryer in the bathroom and typical central air conditioning unit to smart refrigerators and voice activated alarm systems that require a different level of wiring and electrical knowledge.
According to May 2020 State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates for Guam, the wage isn’t as high as counterparts in the mainland, which is true for most jobs in Guam. Yanger said they’re still salaries that offer “a good and comfortable living” for those who are looking to have a job that will provide for their families.
He said he can’t overemphasize: “When we tell people you’re responsible or you’re liable for the work of you do, it’s not an exaggeration. Electricians in particular are very cognizant of this fact.” “People can get killed by bad installations,” Yanger said. “You pay for what you get and you are looking for an industry-competent system that is designed and installed by an industry-certified person or persons. If the wire is too small and the load being delivered is too heavy you’ll start a fire. If you don’t have proper grounding you can start a fire.” What you can earn According to Guam Department of Labor employment reports, the number of people in the construction field, in general, has increased in just the last two years. It’s a trend that some attribute to the pandemic but also as many people seek a trade in the construction industry, which is growing because of the Department of Defense pivot to the Indo-Pacific region. From June 2019 to March 2021, general building contractors increased by nearly 2,000 and special trade contractors, to include electricians, increased by 100. CONSTRUCTION
June 2019 June 2020 March 2021
General Building Contrators
4,980
6,260
6,690
Heavy Construction
270
390
510
Special Trade Contractors
1,290
1,330
1,390
6,540
7,980
8,590
Across the U.S. mainland, the median annual wage for electricians was $56,900 in May 2020, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. The median wage is the wage at which half the workers in an occupation earned more than that amount and half earned less. The lowest 10%
14 | AUGUST2021
For those who’ve approached him and his advice to anyone considering the electrical trade, he’s said: “It’s worth your time and it’s worth the pain and the sacrifice. The compensation levels for competent electricians is pretty decent … and there’s always room to grow and move up if that’s what you want to do.” For those just starting out, typically as electrician helpers, the Guam employment report shows a mean wage of $17.52 an hour - that’s just over double the current minimum wage of $8.75 an hour. According to the May 2020 State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates for Guam report: LEVEL
NUMBER
MEAN WAGE
SALARY
Electrician helpers
110
$17.52
$36,440
Electricians
410
$18.41
$38,290
Electrical engineer
50
$33.08
$68,000
Electrical and electronic engineering technologists and technicians
100
$28.39
$59,050
He said as experience and competence increases so does compensation. Yanger also noted that various levels within the areas of the electrical field yield different salary levels. For real time examples, we pulled some salaries from the Guam Power Authority. A Substation Electrician Apprentice can earn about $28,051 a year. While a Line Installer-Repairer Apprentice earns $32,726, according to agency data. Moving up in experience and responsibility, a Plant Electrician 1 earns $55,341 and a Plant Electrician Leader, earns $63,259 a year.
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CONSTRUCTION NEWS BULLETIN
Federal compensation levels Yanger also points out that as many of the island’s electrician helpers, electricians, electrical and electronic engineers, technicians also work on military projects as contractors. These jobs typically get paid a higher salary that’s on par with U.S. mainland rates. And the salary levels for electricians and other skilled workers on federal projects may actually increase later this year, following a presidential executive order. The U.S. Department of Labor was seeking input through August 2021 on proposed regulations to implement Executive Order 14026, “Increasing the Minimum Wage for Federal Contractors,” which was signed by President Joseph R. Biden Jr. on April 27, 2021. The Executive Order seeks to raise the hourly minimum wage paid by those contractors to workers performing work on or in connection with covered federal contracts to $15 per hour, beginning January 30, 2022; and beginning January 1, 2023, and annually thereafter, an amount determined by the Secretary of Labor. The Executive Order directs the Secretary to issue regulations by November 24, 2021, consistent with applicable law, to implement the Order’s requirements. Getting started According to the U.S. Department of Labor, a high school diploma or equivalent is required to become an electrician. Yanger said becoming an electrician requires some classroom learning and lots of on-the-job-training. You can get started with programs like those offered at Guam Community College, GCA Trades Academy or other similar technical trade schools in the mainland. U.S. DOL states that technical schools offer programs related to circuitry, safety practices, and basic electrical information. Graduates of these programs usually receive credit toward their apprenticeship.
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FEATURE STORY
You also can join apprenticeship programs offered by various companies. “There’s a lot of guys who went through the indentured system. With this is a class and you do OJT,” he said. OJT is required for both the indentured or going through a program. He said about 8,000 hours of apprenticeship OJT is needed - that’s about four years - to become a journeyman. U.S. DOL website states that most electricians learn their trade in a 4- or 5-year apprenticeship program. For each year of the program, apprentices typically receive 2,000 hours of paid on-the-job training as well as some technical instruction. Additionally, workers who gained electrical experience in the military or in the construction industry may qualify for a shortened apprenticeship based on their experience and testing. Technical instruction for apprentices includes electrical theory, blueprint reading, mathematics, electrical code requirements, and safety and first-aid practices. They may also receive specialized training related to soldering, communications, fire alarm systems, and elevators. After completing an apprenticeship program, electricians are considered to be journey workers and may perform duties on their own, subject to local or state licensing requirements, the U.S. DOL website states. According to Guam Power Authority, anyone wanting to join the agency as an electrician must “research, understand and become familiar with both federal and local regulations (National Electrical Code, National Electrical Safety Code, and Guam Building Codes and GPA Standards. All of these help ensure that workers are able to keep up with GPA’s updated Net-Metering Program Interconnection Policy. GPA updates its specifications periodically to keep abreast with latest technology and best utility practices.
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FEATURE STORY
CONSTRUCTION NEWS BULLETIN
TAPPING INTO THE ISLAND’S POWER GRID WITH GPA The Guam Power Authority continues to move forward in providing electricity to the island’s growing population and increasing demands.
Officials said some of the most common issues electrical contractors run into from a GPA perspective include, overloading circuit breakers, panels and outlets.
Helping them do that is a crew of electricians and technicians who, on top of acquiring on the job skills and training, also have to be familiar with the various safety codes, regulations and standards that ensure their own safety as well as the safety of the island’s power grid, upon which an island of more than 160,000 residents and thousands of businesses rely.
On the more procedural side, common concerns include, scheduling inspections and obtaining final approval for new installations and/or modifications to electrical systems.
GPA officials said it’s critical that electricians who are tapping into the island’s power grid, as well as technicians, linemen and other skilled workers with the agency, research, understand and become familiar with both federal and local regulations. These include the National Electrical Code, National Electrical Safety Code, and Guam Building Codes as well as GPA Standards. And the learning doesn’t stop there for anyone in the local electrical industry. Seasoned electrical contractors should also be familiar with new regulations. “GPA has updated its Net-Metering Program Interconnection Policy,” officials stated. “Additionally, GPA updates its specifications periodically to keep abreast with latest technology and best utility practices.”
GPA also is working to create a smoother transition of electricity as the solar power can sometimes fluctuate. According to the 2019 GPA annual report, construction on two contracts to build 40 megawatts of Energy System Storage will eliminate approximately 80 percent of the short, intermittent power outages that have been impacting GPA’s power system whenever a generator trips, and in order for GPA to avoid an island wide blackout. “Furthermore, there will be a smoother transition of renewable energy integration to the GPA grid, especially with solar power, to help stabilize ongoing power fluctuations occurring on the power grid during cloudy days,” the report states. But to help with those fluctuations, GPA officials said for those “appliances that are very sensitive to voltage fluctuations, customers should consider installing voltage regulators or other protective devices per GPA Service Rules and Regulations.”
To learn more, go to: www.guampowerauthority.com/business/business_construction.php. To contact the GPA Engineering Division, call (671) 648-3011, Monday through Friday from 7:30 am – 4:30 pm. The GPA Customer Services can be contacted (671) 647-5787/8/9, Monday through Friday from 8:00 am - 5:00 pm or email customersfirst@gpagwa.com or businessfirst@gpagwa.com.
16 | AUGUST2021
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PHOTO HIGHLIGHTS
CONSTRUCTION NEWS BULLETIN
GCA Membership Luncheon July 22, 2021 Westin Resort Guam
18 | AUGUST2021
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MEMBER BENEFITS
CONSTRUCTION NEWS BULLETIN
Occupational Health services at FHP Health Center By Rodney “RJ” Ricarte
With your GCA member health insurance benefit is access to the FHP Health Center, one of Micronesia’s leading medical clinics that integrates complete and optimized healthcare under one trusted family brand. Since its founding in 1973, FHP has grown to encompass exceptional Centers of Care. These centers include Urgent Care, full service Radiology (MRI, CT Scan, Digital Mammography and X-Ray), Primary Care (Pediatrics, Adult Medicine), Home Health and Hospice, a Cancer Center (Hematology/Oncology), as well as Dental and Vision Centers. In addition, FHP offers a convenient in-house full-service pharmacy, owned and operated by MegaDrug, and full service laboratory owned and operated by Diagnostic Laboratory Services (DLS).
Occupational Health — services for your work family
Occupational Health is an important service offered by FHP and one that GCA members should be aware. FHP cares for your family; the one at home and your family at work. The exceptional team of physicians, certified physician assistants, and medical support staff provide comprehensive medical services to safeguard the personal health and overall productivity of your team members.
Many services under one roof for your business needs
Occupational Health services include: physicals, drug testing, workers’ compensation, respiratory certification, special immunizations and health certifications.
Physicals: pre-employment, renewal or annual, fitness evaluation, driver certification, vision screening, dental check-up, Military Sealift, Pre-deployment and Exit Physicals.
Drug Testing: Supporting the Drug-Free Workplace with random screening and pre-employment screening. Workers’ Compensation: Management of worker’s compensation cases including treatment of the employee and filing necessary reports and submission of claims with your Workers’ Compensation carrier.
Respiratory Certification: spirometry. Special Immunizations including tetanus, PPD/tuberculin skin tests, Hep A/B Series, flu vaccines and travelers’ immunization.
Health Certifications as required by the Department of Public Health and Social Services. Consider Occupational Health Services for your employees
Occupational Health is located in the FHP Health Center in Tamuning and open Monday through Friday, 8:00am to 5:00pm. To schedule an appointment call 646-5825, press 1. Please contact the department to inquire about its services to screen future employees and protect current ones.
Rodney “RJ” Ricarte is the TakeCare account executive for GCA. He can be contacted at (671) 487-7121 or rodney.ricarte@takecareasia.com.
20 | AUGUST2021
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As Guam’s leading healthcare provider for close to 50 years, our commitment to our island only grows and our commitment to your health? It’s never been stronger.
Quality Providers for Your Health Care Needs
Technology to Help You Live a Healthier Life
TakeCare members have access to an extensive list of participating providers, both on and off island. TakeCare’s growing network of contracted providers in Guam includes Guam Regional Medical City and Saipan, in neighboring regions including the Philippines, Thailand, Singapore, New Zealand, Hawaii and California and the rest for the 50 states, through an excellent network of medical specialist, practitioners and facilities .
TakeCare’s wellness programs and MyTakeCare, our online member portal, are conveniently available. Members have access to valuable health and wellness resources, can complete a Health Check, view claims activity, print a member card, review benefits and eligibility information, as well as manage personal health within MyTakeCare health calendar. In addition, TakeCare offers a mobile app to display your ID card, our network of providers, TakeCare wellness programs, fitness schedule, Affinity Rewards, and wellness partners. It also helps you manage your wellness and fitness incentives while tracking your fitness progress through biometrics!
Preferred Access to the FHP Health Center TakeCare members have preferred access to the FHP Health Center. FHP features a roster of highly trained, credentialed, well-known and respected community-based physicians and professional staff. In addition, the center’s modern technology and equipment supports medical services and expertise provided to its patients at its exceptional Centers of Care. These centers include Urgent Care, Full Service Radiology (MRI, CT Scan, Digital Mammography and X-Ray)-Certified by the American College of Radiology, Primary Care (Pediatrics, Adult Medicine, and Women’s Health), Occupational Health, Home Health and Hospice, a Cancer Center (Hematology/Oncology), as well as Dental and Vision Centers. In addition, FHP offers a convenient in-house full-service pharmacy, owned and operated by MegaDrug, and full service laboratory owned and operated by Diagnostic Laboratory Services (DLS).
Customer Service (671) 647.3526
Count on TakeCare to deliver comprehensive, Accredited insurance coverage and quality health care when and where you need it. Choose TakeCare. Our Island, Your Health Plan.
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NEWSLINE
CONSTRUCTION NEWS BULLETIN
NEWSLINE Senate Passage of Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill Could Yield Crucial Wins, Says ABC On Aug. 10, the U.S. Senate passed the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act with bipartisan support in a 69-30 vote, with 19 Republicans joining all 50 senators in the Democratic caucus to approve the legislation. The IIJA provides approximately $1.2 trillion, including $550 billion in new spending, for physical infrastructure investments throughout the country, including $110 billion for roads, bridges and major projects; $66 billion for passenger and freight rail; $65 billion for broadband infrastructure; $55 billion for water infrastructure; $39 billion for public transit; $25 billion for airport improvements and $16.6 billion for ports and waterways. The bipartisan deal includes the ABC supported, bipartisan Surface Transportation Reauthorization Act passed earlier this year by the U.S. Senate Environment and Public Works Committee. This reauthorization provides a 34% increase in federal funding for the nation’s transportation infrastructure and includes hard-fought provisions to expedite the federal permitting process for construction projects and supports workforce development opportunities for hardworking Americans. Prior to the passage of the bill, ABC highlighted its priorities and the wins
22 | AUGUST2021
included in the bill as well as concerns with several labor provisions and potential executive action from the White House. Of note, as the Senate considered the bill, ABC strongly advocated for fair and open competition, which resulted in no government-mandated project labor agreement language in the legislation. ABC remained neutral on the legislation, neither opposing nor supporting the bill. After the bill passed in the Senate, ABC President and CEO Mike Bellaman issued a statement noting the bipartisan accomplishments of the bill while raising concerns about its implementation should it be signed into law and actions the administration has signaled it could take to limit participation from merit shop contractors. “This infrastructure package contains the most significant investment in our nation’s infrastructure in a generation and could yield crucial wins for the American people and construction industry,” Bellaman said. “President Biden and his administration must refrain from partisan favoritism in awarding contracts and commit to ensuring all of America’s construction industry can participate in the important work of modernizing the nation’s infrastructure.”
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While the bill passed the Senate, it is not guaranteed to pass the House, as House Speaker Nancy Pelosi D-Calif., continues to insist on pairing the consideration of the bipartisan IIJA with the partisan budget reconciliation, which Senate Democrats also passed on Aug. 10. Notably, Speaker Pelosi and House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer, D-Md., have informed House members that they will be returning from their August recess early, on Aug. 23, after previously scheduling the House to return on Sept. 20. However, the House now plans to return to Washington, D.C., to start work on their portion of the partisan $3.5 trillion budget resolution as well as considering H.R. 4, the John Lewis Voting Rights Act. House Democrats could also consider additional legislation; however, they do not appear to be poised to take up the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act for final passage until the reconciliation package is finished later this fall.
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CONSTRUCTION NEWS BULLETIN
NEWSLINE
OSHA Releases Updated COVID-19 Guide On Aug. 2, the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s Alliance program issued an updated guide containing COVID-19 guidance and resources for employers from a variety of agencies including the DOL, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Additionally, the guide includes input from industry groups on best practices for COVID-19 safety in the workplace.
Additionally, OSHA has included a list of general COVID-19 resources grouped by agency, including those on the OSHA Emergency Temporary Standard and updated enforcement policies, and sections on respiratory protection, vaccines and additional industry-specific COVID-19 resources grouped by industry, such as the construction sector. As with previous versions, it is intended as a resource and is not comprehensive.
The latest updates to the Alliance program guide include the CDC’s list of COVID-19 guidance documents, a COVID-19 Vaccines Toolkit for Workers, Interim Public Health Recommendations for Fully Vaccinated People and more.
The Alliance COVID-19 resource guide can be accessed here. For additional information about COVID-19 and vaccines, please visit OSHA or ABC’s coronavirus update webpage.
24 | JULY2021 3
A/C & Refrigeration Mechanic HVAC & Refrigeration Technician Field Supervisor
30
5 2
Crane Operator
Total Non-Construction H-2B Workers
6
Pipefitter
5
Elevator Installer Technician
www.guamcontractors.org TOTAL Construction H-2B Workers
Total OTHER Construction
11
HVAC & Refrigeration Mechanic
2
Heavy Equipment Mechanic
1557
64
10
23
Heavy Equipment Mechanic
18
Camp Cook
4
Construction Equipment Mechanic
5
Other Construction Occupations
Employers Workplace Monthly Report Statistics
Automotive Mechanic
Other Non-Construction Occupations
GUAM DEPARTMENT OF LABOR Alien Labor Processing Certification Division
27
1586 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 1587
4783 1719
1587
Total H-2B Employers U.S. Const. Workers Total U.S. Workers Grand Total H-2B Workers
0
1000
2000
3000
4000
5000
Total U.S. Workers
Total U.S. Workers Grand Total Hin H2 companies 2B Workers
US Workers vs. H-2B
6 24
Non-Construction
6000
18
Construction
Employers By Industry
Philippines Mexico Japan Kiribati United Kingdom Australia Italy Peru Thailand Other Total by Nationality
Workers by Nationality
1493
Welder Total Common Const.
121
Heavy Equip. Operator 2
20
Sheetmetal Worker 93
67
Plumber
Camp Cook
17
Structural Steelworker
Electrician
165
639
342
Reinforcing Metalworker
Carpenter
Cement Mason
Common Construction Occupations
MONTH ENDING: June 2021
Mexico Thailand 0.00% 0.00%
1.14%
4.49%
1.34%
8.10%
11.05%
6.23%
0.13%
Other 0.00%
Peru 0.00%
Prepared By: Jessie Cruz Contact information: Greg Massey, ALPCD Administrator P.O. Box 9970 Tamuning, Guam 96931 (671)475-8005/8003
Welder
Camp Cook
Heavy Equip. Operator Electrician
Sheetmetal Worker
Reinforcing Metalworker Structural Steelworker Plumber
Carpenter
Cement Mason
Other
Thailand
Peru
Italy
Australia
United Kingdom
Kiribati
Japan
Korea
Philippines
United Kingdom 0.00%
Kiribati 0.00%
22.91%
42.80%
1.81%
Common Construction Occupations
Philippines 99.94%
Japan 0.00%
Australia 0.06%
Italy 0.00%
H-2B Population by Nationality
REPORTS/ INFORMATION CONSTRUCTION NEWS BULLETIN
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