g Under rounder August 2009
O N TA R I O S E W E R A N D WAT E R M A I N C O N S T R U C T I O N A S S O C I AT I O N
The
HIGH
Energy Cost
of
Water Leakage
PM# 40064978
Impact of Distracted Driver Legislation OSWCA’s Bursaries Program What’s Happening with the WSIB Member Profile: MIG Engineering
MAKING MORE OF EVERYDAY MAXIMIZING OPPORTUNITIES MINIMIZING OBSTACLES
THE PEOPLE OF ONTARIO think of progress as the road you build or the site development you prepare for a new subdivision. Building infrastructure for a better life for everyone. But for you, progress is about work: How much your crew was able to get done today, regardless of the obstacles in their path. Distance covered. Boxes checked. At Toromont Cat we see it your way. We work hard everyday to bring about improvements, small and large, that make Cat® ownership better value-and make the most of every day in your schedule. With Toromont Cat machines, work tools, service, parts and support, your crew can put in a solid productive day. They’ll be safer, have more control and get more done with less rework. So when quitting time arrives with less stress and strain. Your crews feel better about the job they did today-and even more prepared to get at it again tomorrow. Power and productivity. Safety and satisfaction. That’s progress. The Undergrounder / August 2009 • 3 www.toromontcat.com
Rentals • Sales • Service • Supplies
™
*equipment may differ by Branch location
United Rentals Ontario locations: Barrie, ON (705) 722-8181 Belleville, ON (613) 968-9595 Bracebridge, ON (705) 645-7748 Brantford, ON (519) 756-0700 Brampton, ON (905) 456-2820 Cambridge, ON (519) 623-3720 4 • The Undergrounder Collingwood, ON / August 2009 (705) 445-7811 Guelph, ON (519) 824-6760
Kingston, ON Kitchener, ON London, ON Mississauga, ON North Bay, ON Oshawa, ON Ottawa, ON Saint Catharines, ON
(613) 389-5211 (519) 576-6000 (519) 685-5438 (905) 814-8533 (705) 472-4080 (905) 429-2304 (613) 745-3060 (905) 685-4269
Sarnia, ON Scarborough, ON Stoney Creek, ON Stratford, ON Toronto, ON Walkerton, ON Waterloo, ON Windsor, ON
(519) 344-2475 (416) 289-1010 (905) 643-0999 (519) 271-1952 (416) 461-9887 (519) 881-2921 (519) 885-5000 (519) 966-2772
g Under rounder August 2009
O N TA R I O S E W E R A N D WAT E R M A I N C O N S T R U C T I O N A S S O C I AT I O N
Undergrounder August 2009
MESSAGE
O N TA R I O S E W E R A N D WAT E R M A I N C O N S T R U C T I O N A S S O C I AT I O N
The
HIGH
7
Energy Cost
FEATURES
of
Water Leakage
PM# 40064978
Impact of Distracted Driver Legislation OSWCA’s Bursaries Program What’s Happening with the WSIB Member Profile: MIG Engineering
Publisher: Robert Phillips OSWCA Editorial Coordinator: Margaret Malagowski
President’s Message By Greg White
11
The High Energy Cost of Water Leakage Early pipe replacements could save millions. By Jean Feingold
15
Hands Free . . . Or Hands Up!!! The potential impact of distracted driver legislation on civil construction contractors. By Don Del Vecchio
19
A Boost for Students OSWCA’s bursaries program recognizes students who are excelling in an engineering program. By Stephen Murdoch
23
What’s Happening with the WSIB Restructured SWAs, fewer exemptions, possible rate changes. By Jean Feingold
Project Manager: Kim Davies Marketing: Allie Hansen Sales Representatives: Anook Commandeur, Todd Evans, Brenda Ezinicki, Tracy Goltsman, Brian Hoover, Gordon Jackson, Bill Lovett, Jason Ruppert, Dawn Stokes, Mark Tumarkin, Ainsley Tyler Naylor Editor: Michael Senecal
MEMBER PROFILE
Layout: Catharine Snell Advertising Art: Aaron Harper Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: Naylor (Canada), Inc. Distribution Dept. 100 Sutherland Avenue Winnipeg, MB R2W 3C7
27
50 Years of Excellence MIG Engineering a willing partner with other firms, committed to community. By Stephen Murdoch
30
Buyers’ Guide and Trade List
©2009 Naylor (Canada), Inc. All rights reserved. The contents of this publication may not be reproduced by any means, in whole or in part, without the prior written consent of the publisher. Canadian Publications Mail Agreement #40064978
PUBLISHED AUGUST 2009/OSW-T0209/8445
The Undergrounder is published for the Ontario Sewer and Watermain Construction Association (OSWCA) 5045 Orbitor Drive, Unit 12, Suite 300 Mississauga, ON L4W 4Y4 Tel.: 905-629-7766, Fax: 905-629-0587
Published by Naylor (Canada), Inc. 100 Sutherland Avenue Winnipeg, MB R2W 3C7 Tel.: 204-947-0222, Fax: 204-947-2047 www.naylor.com
The Undergrounder / August 2009 • 5
6 • The Undergrounder / August 2009
Message from Greg White, President, OSWCA
2009 – Infrastructure Stimulus
F
or close to a full year the economic downturn and financial markets have been daily headlines. As we enter mid 2009 both federal and provincial politicians speak volumes of their municipal infrastructure stimulus budgets and how money is flowing, jobs are being created and shovels are in the ground. Well that may be their view, but what we see in our industry from ground level down is not quite the same. The budgetary stimulus was supposed to be significant and immediate. One could argue both sides on the size question: yes it is significant based on historical grants and spending, and no it is not when measured against the estimated $123 billion infrastructure deficit that the Federation of Canadian Municipalities has referenced in the last year. Are the municipal infrastr ucture stimulus packages having an immediate impact? We haven’t seen a lot of shovels in the ground yet and that really shouldn’t surprise anyone.
With funding announcements now out the door as of early June 2009 it will take municipalities some time to put together the respective tender packages. Let’s assume that they are unusually efficient and get out the stimulus tender packages by mid July. Well, contractors are going to need some time to price and bid the work, so let’s say another four weeks. That puts us into mid August for tender closings. A fast turnaround from tender closing to contract award and a green light to mobilize would be another two to three weeks, so that puts us into early September 2009. Mobilization on the contractors side can take a week or two, especially if crews are still working on other projects. So if the municipalities and their consultants surpass their normal productivity levels in getting tenders assembled, evaluated and awarded, we could see work starting by early to m id September 2 0 0 9. T hat ’s when I would say we have shovels in the ground. Well, at least paint
on the ground, when all that work comes out, we also have to get utility locates. Can we count on a late, warm and dry summer to do the work? Can we count on a long and dry autumn? We might have a better chance of the Blue Jays and Argonauts winning their respective championships than we have of getting good weather after August. Cou ld t he t im ing have been improved? Maybe. Governments might have shortened the stimulus process by just sending the money to municipalities without the need for a stimulus application and evaluation system, but could we trust the municipalities to get more infrastructure projects out the door or would they have taken their time to debate and prioritize their projects. We can’t rewind the clock, but we can and should keep the pressure on our municipal works departments to stay focused and maybe, just maybe, we can get a break or two with the fall weather ■ The Undergrounder / August 2009 • 7
State of the art equipment delivering high quality product. • Prestressed Concrete Pressure Pipe (400mm to 3000mm) • Reinforced concrete storm and gravity pipe • Catch Basins • Maintenance Holes • Box Culvert
800.461.5632 www.munroconcrete.com
283380_Munro.indd 1
10/17/06 12:31:24 PM
Be Selective!... Think Canadian We offer: • Contract & Commercial Surety • Fidelity Bonds • Directors’ & Officers’ Liability • Credit Insurance • Guarantee Gold® (high value home and automobile)
The Guarantee Company of North America is a Canadian owned property and casualty insurance company and has been serving the insurance needs of North Americans for over 134 years.
www.gcna.com
•
8 The Undergrounder / August 2009 428696_Kid.indd 1
6/2/09 8:07:28315732_theguarantee.indd AM 1
3/12/07 8:45:26 AM
OSWCA 39th Annual Conference – Itinerary Monday, January 25 – Monday, February 1, 2010
Riu Palace, Cabo San Lucas DAY 1 – Monday, January 25, 2010 Arrive in Cabo San Lucas. Explore the resort; enjoy dinner at El Medano! See you at the show at the Los Cabos Theatre.
DAY 2 – Tuesday, January 26, 2010 Welcome Group Dinner Join us for a private group dinner at the amazing à la carte Mar de Cortés Steak House. Watch the sunset and be there for the kick-off to a great week!
Courtesy of √oxéƒx™/flickr.com
DAY 3 – Wednesday, January 27, 2010 OSWCA Annual General Meeting OSWCA Annual Beach Olympics
Courtesy of √oxéƒx™/flickr.com
On your mark, get set, go! See you on the beach for an afternoon of fun. This event is open to everyone, but if you are not an Olympian, we would love to have fans!
DAY 4 – Thursday, January 28, 2010 Whale Watching Catamaran Tour Set sail aboard a beautiful 48-foot catamaran to see the magnificent gray whales of Cabo San Lucas as they arrive in the Sea of Cortez. If you’re lucky, you’ll be able to get up close to the whales for great photo opportunities. Enjoy complimentary drinks and the coastal views of Los Cabos as you sail peacefully through the Sea of Cortez.
Courtesy of √oxéƒx™/flickr.com
DAY 5 – Friday, January 29, 2010 Annual Members Seminar Based on positive feedback from the 2008 conference, we are welcoming members who would like to highlight their company. We invite delegates to once again sign up and provide other conference delegates with highlights of their company and/or product.
DAY 6 – Saturday, January 30, 2010 FREE DAY Enjoy the day; take a glass-bottom boat tour, do some shopping along the beach or in town.
DAY 7 – Sunday, January 31, 2010 Farewell to Cabo San Lucas BBQ Join us for closing remarks, departure information and the announcement of the destination for the 2011 Conference. We invite all members big & small to be a part of this experience! Visit www.oswca.org for registration details.
DAY 8 – Monday, February 1, 2010 Depart Cabo San Lucas for Toronto The Undergrounder / August 2009 • 9
To make every job an ideal installation, specify Ideal Pipe Any spec, any size From drainage pipe and CSA-compliant storm sewer pipe to poly-conduit, Ideal Pipe is your ideal choice.
Expert field support With 25 years of experience, Ideal comes through with the product and application knowledge you need.
Fast, easy installation We deliver tough, flexible HDPE pipe in industry-standard lengths to keep jobs on budget with minimal time, fittings and equipment.
Available through major distributors across Canada.
Manufacturers of CHALLENGER® 3000 Gasketed Smoothwall Pipe
London • Ontario • Canada toll free: 1-800-265-7098 tel: (519) 473-2669 • fax: (519) 641-2524 www.idealpipe.ca • sales@idealpipe.ca
093-021A Underground 7x4.583 BW.indd 1
6/6/06 5:13:12 PM
297533_Ideal.indd 1
10/18/06 2:48:19 PM
Our Bond Is Your Guarantee Travelers Guarantee Company of Canada is a leading provider of surety products in Canada. We are committed to customer service excellence and forging strong business relationships. You can be confident you are dealing with the experience and expertise required to get the job done. Travelers Guarantee Company of Canada Contact your surety broker for information
•
10 The Undergrounder / August 2009 433754_Travelers.indd 1
F
Surety . Warranty . Specialty Insurance
F
www.travelersguarantee.com
6/13/09 4:40:20 417299_Drexler.indd PM 1
1/26/09 9:24:08 AM
The High Energy Cost of Water Leakage Early pipe replacements could save millions By Jean Feingold
W
hen residents of Ontario get water from their taps every day, most are unaware that leakage from the water delivery system (WDS) pipes is wasting millions of dollars in energy costs annually. The financial benefit of preventive maintenance is well explained in “Incorporating Sustainability in Infrastructure ROI: The energy cost of deferred maintenance in municipal water systems.” Written by Associate Professor Tamer E. El-Diraby, Professor Br yan W. Karney and Research Scientist Andrew Colombo, all of the University of Toronto, this recently released report was funded and published by the Residential and Civil Construction Alliance of Ontario. The cost of leakage Traditional feasibility studies of infrastructure construction focus on initial expense rather than life-cycle costs, the report states. In Toronto’s water system there are 6,000 kilometres of pipes, of which more than 20 percent are at least 80 years old and almost 10 percent are more than 100 years old, noted Frank Zechner, former Executive Director of the Ontario Sewer and Watermain Construction Association. “With age, watertight pipes deteriorate,” the
report states. “Deterioration leads to higher water losses, which mu st b e add resse d through higher pumping levels.” Leak ing pipes require more electricity to pump both the water needed to meet customer demand and to pump the additional water that leaks out of pipes and valves upstream of the customers’ meters. This water loss leads to higher pumping levels and a rise in water dist r ib ut ion pu mping costs. This cycle tends to result in faster rates of obso lesce nce of both pipes and pumps. “Elect r ic it y co st s for pu mpi ng comprise the major portion of most system’s
operating budgets,” the report notes. “Because water is relatively ‘heavy’ and must often be transmitted long distances, sometimes across terrain with significant topographic variation, this is not surprising.” For example, in the Greater Toronto Area, the monthly energy cost for water distribution is almost $5 million. “Municipalities on average spend 30 percent of their tota l elec t r ica l dema nd mov ing water through their pipes,” Zechner noted. Much of that electricit y is being wasted because of unrepaired pipe leakage. There is not a one-to-one relationship between the percent of leakage and the increased The Undergrounder / August 2009 • 11
cost of electricit y for the W DS, Zechner explained. “If you have a 25 percent leakage rate, your excess power consumption is more than 25 percent,” he said. “Because of the way water works and trying to maintain pressure, your wasted electrical consumption could be 30 percent or higher. That’s something that nobody really appreciates. You can have a relatively small leakage rate and still have a substantial power wastage associated with that leak.”
With energy costs high and going higher, it is vital to find ways to reduce that cost. Potential savings The way to save is through instituting a proactive pipe rehabilitation program. This would include planned replacement of old pipes as they near the end of their life expectancy, as emergency repairs are the most costly way of dealing with pipe leakage problems.
CROWLE FITTINGS & SUPPLY LTD. 407 Deerhurst Drive, Brampton, ON L6T 5K3
Tel: 905-793-2222 Fax: 905-793-3919
TAKING PRIDE IN SUPPLYING QUALITY APPROVED PRODUCTS
Manufacturers of: • Cast Iron Test Fittings for Testing and Locating Municipal Sewer Connections, made in a full range of sizes
Exclusive Distributors of: • AVK Hydrants and Valves
Distributors of: • PVC Pipe and Fittings • Ductile Pipe and Fittings • Maintenance Hole and Catchbasin Frames and Covers • Related Sewer and Waterworks Material
For Product Information & Waterworks Requirements Call: 905-793-2222 or 1-800-465-9801 12 • The Undergrounder / August 2009
Watermain breakage can also i nconve n ie nc e t he p ubl ic . For example, in April 2009, three separate watermain breaks left almost 300 homes in Bensalem, PA without water, including 30 homes that had to be evacuated. Three roads were closed. Boston’s financial district was flooded with thousands of gallons of water when a 12-inch watermain broke in February 2009. Several roads, a major street and a 22-story office building employing hundreds of workers were closed for many hours. In June 2008 in Montgomery County, MD, a 38-year-old pipe section burst, releasing 100 million gallons of water. Hundreds of thousands of residents were left without water service and 1,200 restaurants were closed for two days. Repairs cost $100,000. Perhaps the most dangerous break was in Bethesda, MD in December 2008 when a 66 -inchdiameter main broke, causing massive swift moving road flooding. About a dozen motorists were rescued by boat and helicopter and several suffered hypothermia. Toronto has about 1,500 watermain breaks annually, with most occurring in winter, including its
Electricity generation in Canada accounts for an estimated 20 percent of total GHG emissions and electricity consumption for pumping water is reasonably estimated at five percent of electricity use. With utilities experiencing pipe leakage ranging from 10 to 50 percent, GHG emissions could be significantly reduced by curtailing even half of the leakage. In addition, instituting a pipe rehabilitation program can delay or avoid capacity expansion of
both the water and electricity supply systems. “In some prov incial systems, confronting and controlling energy inefficiencies could save up to 50 percent of energy use,” the report states. “If the Province invests rigorously in pipe rehabilitation to bring leakage to an acceptable level of seven percent, it could realize, on average, $1,500,000 in operational energy savings per month. In addition to the direct cost savings, fi xing such leaks
share of major breaks. A section of Lakeshore Boulevard near the downtown core was closed for days in November 2006 due to four separate breaks in a 12-inch watermain. The same section of road caved in the following April, again due to watermain breaks, as only temporary repairs had been made to the failed sections instead of replacing the pipe.
Leaking pipes require more electricity to pump both the water needed to meet customer demand and to pump the additional water that leaks out of pipes and valves upstream
www.anchorconcrete.com
of the customers’
sales@anchorconcrete.com
meters. The Undergrounder / August 2009 • 13
and reducing energy consumption diminishes the growth in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.” Where to start The report recommends doing a ssessme nt s a nd eva lu at ions of specific WDS performance issues, including pipe deterioration, blockages and trapped air, pumping and energy recovery. To achieve a more sustainable infrastructure, the report recommends that the Province: 1. Reconfigure the methods used for evaluating return on investments in infrastructure projects to include more analysis of sustainability impacts and benefits. 2. Establish clear, long-term policies for life-cycle planning of infrastructure systems, including fi nancing strategies for water infrastructure. The report indicates the rehabilitation budget for water and sewer pipes in the City of Toronto alone is approximately $500 million annually. Modest investments in leak management have the clear potential to save money for Canadian municipalities with quick paybacks. “One can easily estimate that at least 20 percent could be saved if the (Toronto) system could be made significantly more watertight by reducing the leakage rate,” the report notes.
In the rest of the Province, leakage rates are generally higher but water and related energy usage are less. A concerted effort to reduce leakage is likely to yield at least 20 percent savings with a potential for 40 percent savings. Some systems could save as much as 50 percent of energy use by confronting and controlling the sources of energy inefficiency. The report says one can assume a 30 percent energy savings is achievable. “This totals to $1.5 million per month in energy savings alone,” it notes, with the energy costs for Toronto of “deferring” maintenance totaling roughly $160 million over the last 10 years. “The net result would be that Ontario would end up having cheaper systems that perform better,” the report concludes. The big picture I n dec id i ng where to i nvest rehabilitation funds, the report recommends looking at the whole picture. Four aspects of the situation must be examined. First, clear plans and polices must be established to detect and fi x pipe deterioration in a timely manner. Second, by better monitoring pipes for air and blockages, good performance levels can be maintained while reducing
friction losses. Third, using modern control approaches, variable speed drives and well structured maintenance programs at pump stations could improve performance and reduce pumping costs. Fourth, to prevent undesirably large pressures in other parts of a system, pressure is currently dissipated through pressure reducing valves (PRVs), especially near pressure zone boundaries. Implementing recent improvements in microturbine and distributed power generation technology could greatly facilitate energy recovery instead of dissipating it with a PRV. New water pipe designs should t a ke e ne r g y con s e r v at ion i nto account, with the Province encouraging and educating municipalities to include energy conservation and consumption in their design criteria for capital budgets. Adding remote sensors and monitoring software to alert operators to leaks, fluctuations in pressure, problems with equipment integrity and other concerns would identify troublesome areas quickly. The report also recommends creating a fund to expedite WDS maintenance. By doing more repair work sooner, tens of millions of dollars could be saved long term. “Toronto is investing quite well in repairs and we want this to continue,” El-Diraby told the Toronto Sun. OSWCA’s role OSWCA will carry on educating the public and lobbying decision makers as it has done since the early 1970’s. “We continue to provide them with meaningful information, case examples and encouragement,” Zechner said. “We know that emergency repairs will always be more expensive than preventive measures. The same repair on an emergency basis can be up to 10 times more expensive than a scheduled pipe replacement. Our association and others will continue to raise public and political awareness of this important issue with reports, news articles, speaking engagements, whatever mechanisms we can use.” ■
•
14 The Undergrounder / August 2009 360188_Stinson.indd 1
1/15/08 5:00:07 PM
Hands Free … Or Hands Up!!! The potential impact of distracted driver legislation on civil construction contractors By Don Del Vecchio
T
he Government of Ontario has recently passed Bill 118, the Countering Distracted Driving and Promoting Green Transportation Act, 2009. As the first part of that title suggests, this legislation is intended to address the hazards posed by drivers who operate handheld devices such as cell phones, personal digital assistants (PDAs) and other electronic gadgets. Bill 118 received Royal Assent on April 23, 2009. And, while most of the provisions of this Act came into effect as of that date, its proclamation date is anticipated for early fall 2009, at which time the imposition of charges and penalties related to contraventions are also expected. This would allow for a “public awareness” campaign by the government (you may have already heard their radio ads!!??) and a period of adjustment for drivers – and/or their employers. What, then, is the potential impact of this legislation on civil construction contractors? And what are some precautions employers can take to ensure compliance within their company? We will attempt to address those questions in this article. The pace at which “business” is conducted has changed dramatically over the last 20 years or so. For example, the introduction of the fax machine reduced the standard for turnaround time on business correspondence from two weeks to two days (or less!!). Then, answering machines meant we could leave a voice message if we couldn’t reach someone, and The Undergrounder / August 2009 • 15
expect them to call us back as soon as they returned to their office or retrieved their messages. Nowadays, with cell phones and PDAs, we can talk or text, immediately, with the other party. Of course, many companies have used these technological advances to their advantage. Employees – especially those working on the road – have been provided with cell phones or Blackberries to facilitate immediate or prompt communication and access to information. If an employee gets into a vehicular accident while conducting business on one of these electronic devices, it is conceivable both that the employee could be charged for violations of the Highway Traffic Act and that his or her employer could also be liable – under the CVOR legislation and/or the Highway Traffic Act depending on the circumstances. Under the Bill 118 amendments, Section 78 of the Highway Traffic
Act is repealed and the following substituted: Hand-held devices prohibited Wireless communication devices No person shall drive a motor vehicle on a highway while holding or using a hand-held wireless communication device or other prescribed device that is capable of receiving or transmitting telephone communications, electronic data, mail or text messages. Display screen visible to driver prohibited No person shall drive on a highway a motor vehicle that is equipped with, carries, contains or has attached to it a television, computer or other device with a display screen if the display screen is visible to the driver.
There are exemptions specified under the Act; however, but only when all of the following conditions are met: • The motor vehicle is off the roadway or is lawfully parked on the roadway. • T he motor ve h ic le is not i n motion. • The motor vehicle is not impeding traffic. In other words, if you are operating a vehicle and you have to conduct business on your electrical communications device, pull over to the side of the road (exercising due care and attention, of course), put the vehicle in park, and ensure you are not blocking traffic, before you handle that call. One might read this wording and say, “Yeah, but that only applies to driving on a highway, and making or taking calls.” We are not convinced that “construction sites” will be exempted from these amendments. They certainly have not been
77 Orchard Rd., Ajax, ON L1S 6K9 John Eecloo President & General Manager
Industrial Cleaning High Pressure Waterblasting Liquid/Dry Vacuum Services Tel. 905.619.3009 Ext. 215 Fax 905.619.3638 Mobile 1-416-802-5278 (Emergency After Hours Calls)
john@aquablast.ca www.aquablast.ca
HIGH PRESSURE WATERJETTING SEWER FLUSHING VACUUM PUMPING DEEP CLEANING PIPE LOCATING & INSPECTION DAYLIGHTING
WATERJETTING Tanks, Drains, Sewers, Process Lines Equipment, Silos, Heat Exchangers Stacks, Ceiling Decks, Structural Steel Airport Runway Rubber Removal, Masonry Cleaning
INDUSTRIAL VACUUM CLEANING WASTEWATER TREATMENT SPONGE JET CLEANING DECONTAMINATION HYDRO VAC SERVICE
INDUSTRIAL VACUUMING Liquids, Slurries, Sludges, Solids, Chemicals Oils, Dusts, Dry Products, Plant Cleanups Specialized Vacuum Service, M.O.E. Certificate A840206
DRY ICE BLASTING TRENCHLESS PIPE REPAIRING
16 • The Undergrounder / August 2009
382258_MSU.indd 1
6/5/08 3:19:24 PM
If you are operating a vehicle and you have to conduct business on your electrical communications device, pull over to
so I can continue to work laterally [multitask].” The following are some of the precautionary measures civil construction companies should take to ensure compliance with the act. Establish a Company Policy • Clearly indicate that no one is permitted to use a cell phone or other electrical communications device while operating a motorized vehicle.
• Indicate the types of devices that are prohibited under the act and your policy. • Indicate, also, where appropriate, what types of devices may be used to be in compliance (e.g., “handsfree” devices). • Your policy should clearly state that all personal communications devices must be off during work hours. • Forepersons and/or supervisors may be required to occasionally
the side of the road! specifically addressed as “exemptions.” There are plenty of instances when, because of the “distraction” of handheld communication, a worker may not hear a backup alarm or may not see a coworker or other persons close to the equipment they’re operating. Construction companies need to be proactive in reducing these potentially life-threatening hazards. As Vince Bellissimo, President of Timbel Limited, says, “This [legislation] will be a good thing for safety – keeping the roads safer for our workers as they travel to and from their worksite. Today, too many people are multitasking out there, yet they’re not equipped to do so. “Texting” is not something one should do while driving!! I’m switching to Bluetooth technolog y…going ha nds-f ree…
NTARIO LASER RENTALS LTD. SALES • SERVICE • RENTALS • Machine Control Pavers, Graders, Dozers & Excavators • Hydraulic Hammers • Demolition Shears • Concrete Pulverizers • Survey Equipment • Rotating Lasers • Pipe Lasers
• Heavy Equipment Rentals Excavators, Dozers & Excavator Attachments • Aluminum Hydraulic Shields • Trench Boxes / Slide Rail • Bedding Boxes • Speed Shoring • Road Plates
Call 1-800-461-0365 or 416-674-1913 Fax: 416-674-8660 71 Steinway Boulevard, Etobicoke, ON
The Undergrounder / August 2009 • 17
• As an employer, you may wish to seek legal advice / guidance regarding your policy. Training To ensure these amendments and your policy are clearly understood, conduc t t ra i n i ng sessions w it h any workers that typically drive a vehicle – or operate heavy equipment – as part of their job, and may be required to communicate via an electronic device while performing those tasks. Provide Proper Equipment
use cell phones or other electronic devices while working on a project or site; however, only when it can be done safely.
There are several different types of “hands-free” technology available that would enable your workers to continue electronic communication on-the-job and still be in compliance. For example, starting in 2009, all new vehicles purchased by Dufferin Construction Company have Bluetooth capability, and have switched their “Mike” phones to a Bluetooth-
ready unit. According to Jim LaFontaine, Dufferin’s Health, Safety and Environment Manager, “The new phones are great … [The device] attaches to the driver’s visor … has one-touch call answering … voiceactivated calling … and the sound goes through the [vehicle’s] sound system speakers.” Similar provisions to these new Ontario amendments are already in effect in Newfoundland-Labrador, Nova Scotia, and Quebec. As a civil construction employer in Ontario, you now have a choice to make: be proactive, and take reasonable precautions to ensure the safety of your workers (and compliance with this legislation); or, take the risk of doing nothing. It’s your call!!! ■ Don Del Vecchio is Manager, Member Services, at OSWCA. He’s available via email at don.delvecchio@ oswca.org.
Tullio Andreis, BA Consultant
260 Edgeley Blvd., Unit #5 Vaughan, Ontario L4K 3Y4
Tel: 905 - 760 - 0093 Fax 905 - 760 - 0103 e-mail: tullio@andreisfinancial.com
T erraprobe
427275_Andreis.indd 1
4/16/09 10:12:19 AM
since 1977
Distributors of: • Manhole Frames & Covers • Catch Basin Frames & Grates • Grade Adjustment Units • Aluminum Manhole Steps • Valves & Service Boxes • Subdrain • Portland Cement 9 Cedar Avenue Thornhill, ON www.cedar-cip.com 905.882.2070
•
18 The Undergrounder / August 2009 418584_Cedar.indd 1
Geotechnical & Environmental Engineering Site Subsurface Investigations Shoring Design Construction Inspection & Testing Phase 1 & 2 Environmental Site Audits Hydrogeologic & Ground Water Studies Brampton, ON (905) 796-2650 Barrie, ON (705) 739-8355
Stoney Creek, ON (905) 643-7560 Sudbury, ON (705) 670-0460
Internet Web Site: www.terraprobe.ca
3/5/09 3:24:56427244_Terraprobe.indd PM 1
6/10/09 2:17:10 PM
A Boost for Students
OSWCA’s bursaries program rewards students who are excelling in an engineering program By Stephen Murdoch
I
n 2003, the Ontario Sewer and Watermain Construction Association (OSWCA) launched a bursaries program to recognize students who are excelling in an engineering program. Six years later, the program continues to help a growing number of post-secondary students meet their scholastic goals. Between OSWCA’s contribution and matching provincial funding, a total of $1.42 million has been invested in bursaries across the province. The revenue from which provides in excess of $75,000 per year in awards to worthy students from across the province. Graeme Clark, Director and Past President of OSWCA, has seen firsthand how a monetary award can assist the development of a student’s education. “Interest in our bursaries program continues to grow across Ontario. Our ten local sewer and watermain construction associations have seen an increase in the number of inquiries relating to bursaries. Each year, anywhere from one to three students in over 30 schools receive a bursary in the name of both the local association and the OSWCA,” explained Clark. According to Clark, the keystone of the association’s strategy in introducing a bursary program was to help promote the industry. “When we first launched the bursary program, the association hoped to shed light on the importance of the sewer and watermain construction industry. We felt the bursary program would allow students to learn more about a rewarding career in our industry, however, the program became much more than that. The bursary program confirmed the importance of investing in the skills and potential of up-and-coming students.” The Undergrounder / August 2009 • 19
We have undertaken an aggressive campaign aimed at high school kids. The intent of it is to link students interested in the civil construction industry WE PRIDE OURSELVES ON THE FACT THAT OUR PRODUCTS WILL NEVER SEE THE LIGHT OF DAY Our quality products stay underground...where they belong! We provide a wide variety of underground products such as: Circular maintenance holes, Box maintenance holes, Concrete pipes, Box culverts, Valve Chambers, Catch Basins, Specialty Precast Sections Headwalls, Wingwalls, Sand/Oil Interceptors, Wet Wells, Vortech Chambers, Pumping Stations, Trench Covers, Concrete Grade Rings, Frames and Covers.
For more information refer to www.mconproducts.com or email sales@mconproducts.com
M CON
P R O D U C T S 2150 Richardson Side Road Carp, Ontario K0A 1L0 Tel 800.267.5515 Fax 613.831.2048
386233_Mcon.indd 1
CORNWALL 613-933-5602
M CON
pipe & products
2691 Greenfield Road Ayr, Ontario N0B 1E0 Tel 866.537.3338 Fax 519.632.7440
6/12/08 2:02:49 PM
OTTAWA 613-749-9685
364918_thompson.indd 1
KINGSTON 613-634-7373
6/23/08 9:03:44 AM
• Limestone • Sand/Gravel
S A N D & G R AV E L
• Screened Topsoil
905-655-9954
• Triple Mix
4900 Thickson Rd. N.
• Wood Chips • Peat Loam • Recycled Asphalt
Division of Hard-Co Construction Ltd. 20 • The Undergrounder / August 2009
• Garden Rock
with the information they need to make informed decisions. The strength of the bursary program can be traced to its community roots. “Local associations are encouraged to direct the criteria that they see fit. Working with the universities and colleges in their respective communities, they can then select the recipient,” said Clark. The list of post-secondary schools that are involved in the bursary program reads like a who’s who of education. “The University of Western Ontario, McMaster University, Conestoga College and Georgian College are but a few of schools that have awarded our bursaries. Although each school may have their own set of criteria, each has done an admirable job of raising the overall profile of the bursary.” Clark feels since its inception, the bursary program has helped to raise the overall profi le of the industry. “The bursary is intended to promote careers in sewer and watermain construction and it has done just that. Across the province, we are seeing interest in our industry grow and are fielding questions from a number of students. This is an accomplishment the entire industry should take great pride in.” The OSWCA’s commitment to education doesn’t end with the bursary program. “Our current education initiative is broader and includes donations to McMaster University and Georgian College. The funds for McMaster University will be used to establish a permanent chair in heavy civil engineering.” Clark then goes on to explain how the endowment will be used by Georgian College. “The donation to Georgian College will help reestablish their civil technologist and technician programs. Best of all, we have directors who sit on the civil advisory boards at both institutions that can help when called upon.” An additional initiative that OSWCA has helped steer is raising awareness and interest in jobs in the construction industry. “As founding members of the Ontario Civil Construction Careers Institute, we have undertaken an aggressive campaign aimed at high school kids. The intent of it is to link students interested in the civil construction industry with the information they need to make informed decisions. This project along with the bursary program is meeting our objective of promoting our industry,” Clark concluded. ■ To learn more about OSWCA bursaries, log on to www.oswca.org.
Your Solutions Providers LOCATION
PHONE
O N TA R I O B R A N C H E S ready to serve you
FAX
LOCATION
PHONE
FAX
Belleville ..................... (613) 962 -9286 .....(613) 962 -3763
Oshawa ...................... (905) 571-4446 .....(905) 571-9325
Hamilton.................... (905) 318 -3277 .....(905) 318 -4430
Ottawa....................... (613) 842 -7640 .....(613) 842 -1647
Kitchener .................. (519) 894 -7006 .....(519) 894 -6294
St. Catharines........... (905) 685 -3626 ....(905) 686 -3627
London....................... (519) 686 -1141 ......(877 ) 392 -0240
Windsor .................... (519) 944 -3626 .....(519) 948 -4210
Mississauga ................ (905) 564 -7788 ....(905) 564 -2228
430328_EMCO.indd 1
5/29/09 12:04:25 PM
Intelligent solutions that work for you. Designed specifically for Canadian civil contractors, maestro* helps businesses make the most of their potential. By offering you the most comprehensive and efficient ERP solutions, maestro* is your partner in success. If you are looking for a trusted advisor to help improve your company’s efficiency and profitability, then maestro* is right for you. Optimize your performance, maximize your resources and achieve a higher return on investment with technology that works for you.
years
www.maestro.biz
432050_Maestro.indd 1
6/24/09 8:06:48 AM
INSURANCE SOLUTIONS FOR THE SEWER & WATERMAIN INDUSTRY
SURETY BONDING
Same Day Bond Issuance Representing All Major Surety Over 100 years combined experience
GENERAL COVERAGE
Liability Fleet Equipment Wrap-Up Environmental Liability Directors & Officers Stephen Hall 416.248.7144
1.877.232.9996 www.jdimi.com
328407_jones.indd 1
The Undergrounder / August9:43:42 2009 •AM 21 4/25/07
Gary E. Benner, P. Eng. Designated PEO Consulting Engineer Dispute Resolution ◊ Risk Assessment Project Management ◊ Construction Claims Litigation Support ◊ Expert Witness Expertise: Sewer and Watermain, Tunnelling, Directional Drilling, Earthworks, Roads, Blasting, Site Servicing, Bidding 30 years of construction problem solving! 416.483.1888 gary@garybenner.ca www.garybenner.ca
385922_MCNALLY.indd 1
6/10/08 1:31:01 418492_Underground.indd PM 1
CRANE
3/10/09 1:42:15 PM
• AGGREGATE SUPPLY • ROAD CONSTRUCTION
CRANE SUPPLY
• SITE SERVICING
DIVISION OF CRANE CANADA CO.
• GRADING • CONCRETE WORK
Michel Lachance
• EQUIPMENT RENTAL
Waterworks
• COMMERCIAL, INDUSTRIAL (& RESIDENTIAL PAVING)
P: (613) 745-9135 F: (613) 748-1291 C: (613) 222-6015 WATS: 1-800-287-4151 michel.lachance@cranesupply.com www.cranesupply.com
1630 Star Top Road Ottawa, Ontario K1B 3W6
418367_CRANE.indd 1
705-522-9444 INTERPAVING LTD. 76 LOACH’S RD., SUDBURY, ON
3/5/09 8:23:04427395_InterPaving_Ad.indd AM 1
ONTARIO
4/17/09 7:46:13 AM
EXCAVAC FLOYD PRESTON LIMITED AGGREGATES
AGGREGATES - TRANSPORTATION - TOPSOIL LANDSCAPING ROCKS - TRIPLE MIX
LARRY PRESTON President/Owner
BUS.: (905) 473-1921 FAX: (905) 473-5754 E-MAIL: larry@floydprestonlimited.ca
22 • The Undergrounder / August 2009
P.O. BOX 548 18444 MCCOWAN RD. MOUNT ALBERT, ON L0G 1M0
Vacuum Excavating Specialists The ‘No Dig’ Approach to Excavating Specialists in water curb box replacements, trenching and utility poles Contact: Phil Lafleche Tel.: 416-749-0005 Fax: 416-749-8656
What’s Happening with the WSIB
Restructured SWAs, fewer exemptions, possible rate changes By Jean Feingold
C
harged with promoting workplace safety and compensating Ontario workers who are injured on the job, the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) is working to put itself on sounder financial and operational footing. Toward this end, efforts are underway to streamline its own operations as well as considering premium rate increases to employers and eliminating some coverage exemptions.
Realigning the SWAs In late 2008, the WSIB announced its plan to realign the 12 Safe Workplace Agencies (SWAs) which deliver injury prevention education and consulting services, explained Don Del Vecchio, Manager, Member Services, for the Ontario Sewer and Watermain Construction Association (OSWCA). These are being reduced to only four groupings in a consolidation process that should be completed in 2010. OSWCA members will be in the new Risk
The Undergrounder / August 2009 • 23
Group A covering the construction, aggregates, electrical utilities and transportation sectors. “One of our contractor members’ major concerns with this is the potential watering down of services they now receive,” Del Vecchio commented. “The new SWA will be spreading resources too thin.” WSIB has assured the industry that its goal is to maintain and hopefully increase the front line field service and products, such as seminars and training materials, while consolidating administrative costs. The existing SWA for the Construction Sector is the Construction Safety Association of Ontario or CSAO. Much of the training materials, seminars and other CSAO services are provided to construction companies without additional charges, as they are covered under the normal WSIB premium rates. Other SWA’s bill their clients, who typically pay lower WSIB premium rates, for these same services. The WSIB has indicated it intends to maintain the CSAO model for everyone from now on, but Del Vecchio is skeptical. He is also concerned the quality of training will decline. In the past, CSAO hired experienced tradespeople and people with sector specific on-the-job knowledge to do consultancy and training in the fields in which they had worked. “Now we are concerned the trainer might only have worked in utilities or trucking and not understand the construction sector,” he noted.
New premium rates possible Del Vecchio feels WSIB will probably recommend increasing the rate schedule for sewer and watermain workers when its staff provides suggested rates to the WSIB Board of Directors in mid-summer. Currently these workers are in two rate groups: 711 for road building and excavating at $4.68 per $100 of payroll and 732 for heavy civil construction at $6.34 per $100 of payroll. The maximum yearly contributory earnings per worker on which premiums are charged is $74,600. These premium rates are calculated using a complex formula of actuarial assumptions based on injury and claims experience in the field and WSIB’s expected investment returns. If investment income declines, as it has recently, higher rates for employers could be recommended. Both the payroll rate and the maximum yearly contributory earnings per worker could increase. Employers will have the opportunity to comment before rates become final in September. However, Barrister and Solicitor Les Liversidge believes there will be no rate increase in 2009 because Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty said last fall this was not the time to increase taxes. Ways companies can save While WSIB rates are much the same for all sewer and watermain companies, those with good safety performance in the field can have a percent of their premiums
MASTERS INSURANCE LIMITED MASTERS LIFE INSURANCE AGENCY LTD. Proven Experience, Knowledge & Service to the Construction Industry for Over 40 Years TORONTO HAMILTON WINDSOR OTTAWA
905-738-4164 905-577-1180 519-977-8433 613-232-8605
416343_Master.indd 1
1/21/09 8:56:41 AM
TRENCH SAFETY EQUIPMENT
RENTALS • SERVICE • SALES
1.800.667.7467 www.directequipment.ca 24 • The Undergrounder / August 2009
●
Trench Boxes
●
Slide Rail
●
Hydraulic Shores
●
Road Plates
●
Sewer Lasers
●
Pipe Plugs
●
Misc. Equip./Services
Stay Current. Stay Connected.
www.oswca.org
While WSIB rates are much the same for all sewer and watermain companies,
Executive officer exemptions to end
those with good safety performance in the field can have a percent of their premiums returned via rebate. returned via rebate, Del Vecchio explained. Those with poor safety performance can be assessed a surcharge by the WSIB via their CAD-7 Cost Statement. “Typically, safer companies would prefer lower premiums up front because it would give them an advantage in bidding on jobs,” he noted. Under WSIB’s workplace “Safety Incentive Programs,” companies can join Safety Groups. Each Group of at least 40 companies - not necessarily in the same industry meets, shares best safety practices and works together to create and maintain safer workplaces. “Each program year, employers in the Group identify five health and safety objectives to work on for that year from a list provided by WSIB,” explained Del Vecchio. Achieving these objectives, documenting them to WSIB and successfully completing a validation audit make the Group’s fi rms eligible for rebates of up to eight percent of the WSIB premium. Everyone in the Group must meet the objectives and the overall group must achieve at least a 60 percent audit score or no one gets a rebate. There is no penalty for
&
PA RT N E R S
signing up and failing to meet the goals, but peer pressure from other group members encourages companies to comply.
Currently all executive officers of construction companies are exempt from paying WSIB premiums, as are executive officers in other industries including forestry, mining and transport. This will change for most construction business officers when these exemptions expire July 1, 2012. Only the CEO or equivalent of each construction company will continue to be exempt. This change will affect only the construction industry. Exemption elimination is designed to address situations where workers claiming executive exemptions have actually been performing hands-on construction work. If injured on the job, these people were still eligible to receive workers compensation from WSIB even though nothing had been paid into its fund on their behalf. The elephant in the room WSIB needs additional funding because of its unfunded liability (UFL), which was estimated at $11.5 billion on December 31, 2008 without taking into account full indexation. Liversidge said if fully indexed, the UFL would be $13.5 to 14 billion. WSIB had hoped to break even by 2014, but has announced it knows that will not happen. Large investment losses are factored into the UFL. In addition, some companies have operated without paying WSIB premiums. Under the law, should their employees be injured, they are still eligible for benefits, said Del Vecchio. When such illegal operations are discovered because of a worker’s injury, the company is fined heavily, but the fine is usually much lower than WSIB’s costs
L L P
CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS & BUSINESS ADVISORS
BUSINESS ADVISORY SERVICES MANAGEMENT CONSULTING TAX PLANNING & COUNSELING INVESTIGATIVE ACCOUNTING ACCOUNTING & AUDITING
C ONSTRUCTION I NSURANCE & BONDING SPECIALISTS
Auditors for the Ontario Sewer & Watermain Construction Association
2000 STEELES AVE. W., SUITE 200 CONCORD, ON L4K 3E9 PHONE (416) 798-4997 FAX (905) 660-3064 E-MAIL rsp@rsp.ca www.rsp.ca
LONDON 519.646.5800 800.265.5956
TORONTO
905.760.5569 866.755.0655
KWC
519.772.0972 888.772.0972
Stevenson and Hunt Insurance Brokers Limited constructionteam @ sthunt.com www.sthunt.com 433173_Stevenson.indd 1
The Undergrounder / August 2009 • 25 AM 6/9/09 11:15:14
The WSIB has to start thinking outside the box and do their business in a new way. for benefits to the worker and his or her family. Such revenue shortfall is also charged to the UFL. Projections of the future UFL make assumptions of reduced lost time injury rates, a seven percent return on investment and declining average claim duration, none of which have proven true, Liversidge pointed out. He also sees the current recession differing from those of the past because there will not be a bounce back recovery in significant Ontario industries like automotive manufacturing, so “WSIB’s future revenue streams are going to be significantly lower which will make it tougher to meet their targets.” He believes the UFL will never be eliminated because when the zero level approaches, benefits are likely to be enhanced at higher cost. One bright spot is the beginning of the release of regular quarterly financial reports by the WSIB. The first was issued for the end of 2008. “They’ve made a commitment to be more open with the information,” Liversidge said. “I think WSIB Chairman Steve Mahoney has firmly and strongly followed through on that commitment. Once the financials come out and people understand what the state of the union is, that imposes a certain discipline on the part of the stakeholders.” Improving WSIB Liversidge suggests a comprehensive program for WSIB to provide more positive benefits to the construction industry. “The WSIB has to start thinking outside the box and do their business in a new way,” he stressed. “To get there, part of that is to forge a stronger partnership with construction employers.” First, he recommends seating a senior construction employer on the WSIB Board of Directors and creating a construction employer advisory committee. To solve the critical problem of increased average claims duration,
A STEP ABOVE
TORONTO
VANCOUVER
CALGARY
MONTREAL
www.trisura.com A Proudly Canadian Bonding Company
•
26 The Undergrounder / August 2009 385724_trisura.indd 1
6/10/08 3:03:26 PM
WSIB needs the help of a blue ribbon task force composed of impartial legal and insurance experts. This task force would have 90 days to determine what is causing this problem, which started after the law changed in 1997, and how to fi x it. “WSIB needs to facilitate value stream analysis on all of their operations to become more efficient and more effective,” Liversidge said. Because the statute is much as it was 100 years ago, “WSIB should strike a legislative reform advisory committee of experts in the workers compensation field so there’s a perpetual opportunity to get ideas for change and reform,” he said. He also wants reform in WSIB’s costly labor market reentry program designed to get injured workers back to work. “The bottom line is the WSIB has to get back to insurance basics,” said Liversidge. “They must get back to their core mandate of promptly compensating injured workers and facilitating a return to work based on loss of income due to injury and not economic conditions, and cut out bells and whistles and frills. There is a sincere effort on the part of the board and Chairman Mahoney to tackle these problems and come up with long term sustainable solutions.” “OSWCA’s position on WSIB funding is that we would encourage the WSIB to make its internal systems more efficient and more effectively utilize the funds that employers - our members - are contributing to them,” Del Vecchio said. “We still believe there is much waste of resources at the WSIB. They have problems tracking claims and overpaying. The WSIB is not unlike a leaky water system that needs some new pumps and must replace some sections of pipe.” ■
Member Profile
50 Years of Excellence
MIG Engineering a willing partner with other firms, committed to community By Stephen Murdoch
P
lenty of companies can boast 50 years in the industry, but few have the st ay i ng power of M IG Engineering. MIG (pronounced M-I-G) ranks among the top players in its field, particularly for a small firm averaging 25 staff. Through those 50 years, MIG Engineering has been able to bring added value to their clients by constantly enhancing their service-offerings and striving to remain a customerdriven company.
Ma r t y Raay ma kers, P resident of MIG Engineering, and his team have seen their company come a long way since their humble beginnings in 1959. “MIG Engineering was preceded by the firms of Monteith Ingram Graham Limited, established in 1985, and Monteith-Ingram Engineering Limited, established in 1959. Monteith-Ingram was established by James (Jim) Monteith and Gary W. Ingram. Jim took over the reins from his father, J. C. Monteith, an engineer and surveyor who had started his
practice in 1928 after working with C. E. Jones,” explained Raaymakers. However, it was in much later that MIG expanded their offerings. “We evolved from our early municipal roots in the late 1950s to the multidisciplined engineering and project management fi rm we are today,” he added. Raaymakers feels the continued growth of the Sarnia-based company can be attributed to several factors. “Instrumental to our progress has been our diligence in procuring work
Since 1988, MIG has provided design and project management for many components of the over $200 million in improvements to the Blue Water Bridge Canada Plaza.
The Undergrounder / August 2009 • 27
and landing major projects through continuous business development and concise, honest and professional proposals. We are respected by our clients for our attention to detail and our creativity.” It’s this respect that has brought forth opportunities to form strategic relationships by larger firms for both long-term and project specific sharing of resources. “We have established relationships with over a dozen larger and smaller engineering and architectural firms, some
for as long as over twenty years. This has allowed us to augment our own services and to bring their expertise to projects we are managing.” Contributing to the firm’s success through its history is not only its willingness to partner with other fi rms, but its commitment to community. “Our firm’s past and current senior staff has always been involved with outside organizations, including various committees, provincial and municipal advisory boards, board
Aviva Surety’s specialists are qualified to: Offer knowledgeable business advice Customize innovative surety solutions for any class of business Help build your competitive advantage in the construction market All of the above
Aviva Surety has been underwriting contract surety bonds for over 100 years and has the experience you need to be competitive in your business. Ask your broker about Aviva Surety, Canada’s most trusted and valued surety advisor. www.avivasurety.com
Toronto (416) 228-2488 (416) 228-2477
•
28 The Undergrounder / August 2009 435284_Aviva.indd 1
7/3/09 10:19:44 AM
positions on associations—and the list goes on. We are strong believers in giving back to the communities we serve and our industry. Whether it’s sitting on Consulting Engineers of Ontario or assisting with the local Chamber of Commerce, we are well known and respected as a supporter of a variety of initiatives.” Servicing an ever-evolving industry has meant that even at 50 years of age, MIG Engineering must make a concerted effort to grow and adapt alongside. “We pride ourselves on offering complete project services utilizing in-house professionals together with associated subconsultants. Through the years, we have designed and construction managed over 300 bridge structures in the tricounty area as well as dozens of sewage and water systems, roads and municipal infrastructure projects, and buildings over the course of 50 years. This is an accomplishment we are dearly proud of,” Raaymakers went on to say. Many projects completed by MIG Engineering are important to both the public and the business community. “Our senior staff and predecessors have played pivotal roles in some large projects both in our community and provincially. We helped drain Lake Wawanosh and Lake Smith, engineered major urban streetscapes, designed municipal buildings, designed the Telfer Diversion project and both of Ontario’s Flying J Plazas and managed the construction of Sarnia Chris Hadfield Airport.” The impressive list of accomplishments for MIG Engineering doesn’t end there. “We also played major roles in the CN Tunnel and the Blue Water Bridge second span and designed and managed many components of the Blue Water Bridge Canada customs and toll plaza.” MIG Engineering has also gained notoriety for their work in pipeline engineering and project management. “We are committed to full automation of those services which w ill improve ou r produc t w it h respect to cost, schedule and quality.
Our team has the enviable reputation as the ‘go to’ company in the pipeline industry supplying services throughout southwestern Ontario from feasibility planning to commissioning. We have been involved in almost every pipeline project in the area since the mid 1980s, including six world-scale international pipelines under the St. Clair River. The firm was awarded an Award of Excellence in 2006 by the Consulting Engineers of Ontario and was nominated again in 2009.” Like most leading-edge engineering firms, MIG Engineering is working diligently to maintain their market share and looks forward to the challenge of staying ahead of the competition. “The biggest challenge in our business is to continually follow the constant evolution of technologies and to fi ll our clients’ growing requirements. Fortunately, we have first-class project leaders who understand the importance of customer satisfaction.” Employee development is crucial for the growth and prosperity of any business and MIG Engineering is no exception. “We heavily rely on the professionalism and know-how of our employees. Through the years, we have encouraged our employees to think outside the box and this has paid great dividends. We recognize a responsibility to provide a healthy, safe and profitable business to our staff and in return they provide our clients with outstanding service and technical advice. The investment in our employees has played a role in our continued achievements.” In recognition of MIG Engineering’s 50th anniversary this year, the company plans on celebrating with those that have played a role in the fi rm’s growth. “We are planning a barbecue for our clients and colleagues as a thank you for their part in our long history. To mark our anniversary we are donating our services to Goodwill Industries to refurbish a new office complex as our 50th Anniversary Legacy Project and MIG is the Artistic Benefactors to the Starbright Theatre production
running six weeks at Sarnia’s Imperial Theatre.” Although MIG Engineering has met the strategic priorities set out in their recent action plan, there is still room for improvement, contends Raaymakers. “We must continue to meet and exceed the expectations of our clients. In the past 10 years, we have been finding more and more clients wanting day-to-day services, meaning we are their main source of engineering consultation. We
are proud of the fact that they call upon us to assist with their everyday challenges. From our top 30 clients in 2008, 20 have been clients for over 20 years, some for the entire 50,” concludes Raaymakers. Given the company’s continuous growth throughout the years and its reputation for high- qualit y work, it seems the market agrees with that statement. ■ To learn more about MIG Engineering, log on to www.migeng.com.
WE WON’T CALL IT A DAY
UNTIL WE’VE MADE YOURS. At Nortrax, we don’t quit until the job is done. That’s why we stop at nothing to keep you up and running. And our extensive parts network means we’re always nearby. Nobody goes further, digs deeper, or tries harder to keep you productive and profitable, everyday.
433371_Nortrax.indd 1
1-866-366-8722 nortrax.com
The Undergrounder / August 2009 •10:17:26 29 AM 6/15/09
Buyers’ Guide & Trade List ACCOUNTANTS/MANAGEMENT CONSULTANTS Rosenberg, Smith & Partners LLP .................25
CONSULTING ENGINEERS Terraprobe Ltd. .............................................18 Underground Consulting Inc. .........................22
AGGREGATES FPL Aggregates ............................................22 Hard-Co Sand & Gravel/Construction.............20
CONTRACTORS Drexler Construction Ltd. ..............................10
ASSET & MAINTENANCE MANAGEMENT SOFTWARE Maestro Technologies Inc. .............................21 BONDING & INSURANCE Aviva Canada ...............................................28 Cunningham Lindsey Canada Limited ............30 The Guarantee Company of North America ......8 Jones Deslauriers Insurance Management Inc 21 Masters Insurance Limited ............................24 Travelers Guarantee Company of Canada .......10 Trisura Guarantee Insurance Company...........26 BORING & DIRECTIONAL DRILLING Earthboring co, Ltd. ..............outside back cover CONCRETE PIPE & PRODUCTS MANUFACTURERS Anchor Concrete Products Ltd. ...................... 13 CONCRETE PRODUCTS Anchor Concrete Products Ltd. ...................... 13 Cedar Infrastructure......................................18 Munro Concrete Products ...............................8 CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT RENTALS & SALES Crane Supply ................................................22 CONSTRUCTION LASERS Direct Equipment Ltd. ...................................24 GeoShack Canada ..........................................6 Ontario Laser Rentals Ltd. ............................. 17
CONTRACTORS - PAVING Interpaving Limited .......................................22 ENGINEERS The Thompson Rosemount Group, Inc. ..........20 EQUIPMENT SALES, RENTALS & SERVICE NORTRAX ....................................................29 United Rentals ................................................4 EXCAVATING Ontario Excavac............................................22 FINANCIAL SERVICES ANDREIS FINANCIAL SERVICES....................18 HEAVY EQUIPMENT SUPPLIERS Toromont Cat..................................................3
PRECAST STRUCTURES Anchor Concrete Products Ltd. ...................... 13 PUMPS ITT FLYGT .............................. inside back cover SHORING Direct Equipment Ltd. ...................................24 Ontario Laser Rentals Ltd. ............................. 17 SURETY BONDS The Guarantee Company of North America ......8 Stevenson & Hunt Insurance Brokers Ltd. ......25 Travelers Guarantee Company of Canada .......10 TRAFFIC CONTROL PRODUCTS Anchor Concrete Products Ltd. ...................... 13 Stinson Equipment Ltd .................................14 TRAILERS K.I.D. Trailer Equipment...................................8
MARINE CONTRACTORS McNally Construction Inc. .............................22
TRENCH BOXES Direct Equipment Ltd. ...................................24 Ontario Laser Rentals Ltd. ............................. 17
METAL FABRICATING MSU Mississauga Ltd. ..................................16
TUNNELING CONTRACTORS & ENGINEERS McNally Construction Inc. .............................22
PIPE BURSTING & UTILITY TOOLS Footage Tools Inc..........................................30
VACUUM EXCAVATING Ontario Excavac............................................22
PIPE SUPPLIERS Ideal Pipe .....................................................10 Royal Pipe Systems ................ inside front cover
WATERJETTING & INDUSTRIAL VACUUMING Aquablast Corp. ............................................16
PRECAST CONCRETE PRODUCTS Anchor Concrete Products Ltd. ...................... 13 M-Con Products Inc......................................20
WATERWORKS PRODUCTS SUPPLIERS Crowle Fittings & Supply Ltd.......................... 12 EMCO Waterworks Corporation .....................21
CL Inspections Pre-Construction Surveys Trevor Black
FCIP, CRM, CFEI Director
CL Inspections
235 Martindale Rd. St. Catharines, Ontario L2W 1A5 Tel.: (905) 684-7444 Fax: (905) 684-5033 Toll Free: 1-800-668-9922 Email: tblack@cl-na.com Hamilton, Niagara, Kitchener, Haldimand Norfolk, Halton, Sault Ste. Marie
•
30 The Undergrounder / August 2009 418652_Footage.indd 1
2/5/09 3:02:12 383594_Cunningham.indd PM 1
6/5/08 3:12:47 PM
Keep it dry Dewatering solutions that work .6/*$*1"- "/% */%6453*"- 4&8"(& #: 1"44 t 8"5&3 4611-: $0/4536$5*0/ %&8"5&3*/( t .*/& %&8"5&3*/(
RENTAL SERVICE PROGRAM: A complete line of submersible pumps, engine driven pumps, generators, piping and complementary accessories are available for short or long term rental.
t $BOBEB T POMZ i$PBTU UP $PBTUw EFXBUFSJOH DPNQBOZ t 1SPKFDU EFTJHO FOHJOFFSJOH BOE NBOBHFNFOU t 0O TJUF TFU VQ BOE TVQFSWJTJPO t 'MZHU TVCNFSTJCMF QVNQT BOE FOHJOF ESJWFO QVNQT t (FOFSBUPST QJQJOH BOE BMM BDDFTTPSJFT t 4PMVUJPOT GPS TNBMM BOE NBKPS UFNQPSBSZ TJUF EFXBUFSJOH BOE TFXBHF CZ QBTT QSPKFDUT
www.ittwww.ca
For over 62 years Earth Boring has excelled in Trenchless Technology
Specializing in auger boring, directional drilling, tunneling and pipe ramming, we proudly offer a wide range of underground services including horizontal well construction and soil remediation.
Need design consultation and advice for your trenchless project? We have the experience-based solutions you’re looking for.
www.earthboring.ca • gene@earthboring.ca 1576 Ifield Road, Mississauga, Ontario L5H 3W1 Tel: (905) 277-9632 • Fax: (905) 274-9040