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How Safe Are Modern Construction Sites?

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How Safe Are Modern Construction Sites?

Decades ago, construction sites were extraordinarily dangerous and construction workers took risks just by being on a jobsite. Thankfully, we’ve seen some major improvements to construction site technology and best practices for workplace safety.

But just how safe are modern construction sites for workers?

The Importance of Construction Safety

Let’s start by talking about the importance of construction area safety. Depending on the construction area, workers can be exposed to a number of dangerous conditions. They may be forced to work with dangerous materials, such as hot asphalt, or may need to put themselves in dangerous positions, such as climbing to great heights. Falling debris, lost balance, misused and mishandled materials, and more can lead to devastating injuries.

No matter how safe a worksite is, construction accidents can and do happen. Even in perfect circumstances, freak accidents and unusual activities (such as abnormal weather conditions or unseen trespassers) can lead to an accident.

With that in mind, we can establish that no construction site is ever truly, perfectly safe – so construction workers and supervisors must always be on guard.

New Tools, Technologies, and Trends

Thankfully, new tools, technologies, and trends have reshaped the modern construction site.

These are just a few examples:

  • Digital information and processes. Historically, construction workers have relied on paper manuals and temporary instruction to learn proper safety procedures and follow operational directives. But thanks to the onset of digital technology, it’s easier than ever for supervisors and project leads to condense and distribute information, workflows, and processes. At any time, employees can get access to instructions and safety guidelines – so there’s no excuse for not following them exactly.
  • Wearable devices. Wearable IoT devices have also transformed the construction industry. Now, thanks to precise tracking and data analytics, construction workers can get automatic notifications when they’re entering an actively dangerous area – or get warnings to wear certain types of protective equipment. In the future, these wearable devices will become even more sophisticated, taking precise measurements and issuing alerts for a wide variety of potential events.
  • AI and automation. Artificial intelligence (AI) and automation have also meaningfully improved the safety of the average construction site. Some manual tasks have been completed automated with the help of advanced software and robotics; when humans are removed from the equation entirely, there’s virtually no health or safety risk. Additionally, AI has been deployed to practice better data analytics, making recommendations and predictions so that construction sites can operate more smoothly.
  • Drones. Even if you’re not afraid of heights, you might shudder at the thought of climbing up to the top of the skyscraper to complete construction on it. While we still need human workers to climb up high and take care of certain construction objectives, the addition of drones has minimized this need. Drones, with effective human piloting and advanced photography capabilities, are capable of scoping out even the highest places without putting any human beings in danger.
  • Streamlined training. Better education and training can make any workplace safer. Now that we live in an era with constant internet access and convenient mobile devices, construction companies have access to much more advanced forms of education and training. In a matter of days, new employees can be brought up to speed, and supervisors can automatically track and monitor the progress of their subordinates.
  • Data analytics. Finally, advanced data analytics technology makes it easier for leaders in the workplace to evaluate potential safety concerns and work proactively to address them. They can monitor foot traffic to and from areas, look into potential safety red flags, and more.

Construction sites also benefit from the fact that more businesses are taking workplace safety more seriously than ever before. We live in an era where health and safety are high priorities, such that the culture on construction sites has changed for the better.

The Caveats

There are a few caveats to this assertion, however.

  • The job site. Different job sites have different levels of risk. Depending on the height of the job, the materials being used, and the nature of the work, employees are going to face varying levels of danger.
  • Culture. It’s the norm for construction companies to take safety seriously, but there are also occasional deviations from this trend. If your workplace culture isn’t on point, safety may become a bigger concern.
  • Unforeseen variables. No matter how careful you are, there are unforeseeable variables that can affect the safety and security of your jobsite.

Overall, it’s clear that construction sites are safer than they’ve ever been in the past. And despite the occasional accident, most construction workers don’t have to worry about getting hurt as long as they follow proper procedures. In the future, better technology has the potential to make construction sites even safer than we know them today.

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Destinations

The Best American Roads For Your New Convertible

We have compiled a list of the absolute best roads for letting the top down and living your best convertible life.

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Driving with the top down is one of the greatest thrills in life. You look cool, you feel cool and guess what, you are cool. You throw on your sunglasses and leather jacket and just cruise on down the open road in your sweet convertible that is the envy of every one of your friends.

But when you decide to ride with the top down you want to make sure you have something cool to look at. You don’t want to be cruising top-down amongst a bunch of smokestacks and pigeons. You’ll just be inhaling pollution and getting your head pooped on.

Instead, you need to find a beautiful place that will let mother nature do the rest of the heavy lifting when it comes to setting the perfect scene. That’s why we have compiled a list of the absolute best roads for letting the top-down and living your best convertible life.

ROAD TO HANA, HAWAII

The ultimate convertible destination is definitely Hawaii. These soft top cars were built to be driven around the picturesque island that is Hawaii. You’ll get the cool breeze in the warm weather and some spectacular views to match. You’ll be crossing bridges and cutting around curves all while getting some stunning views of the Hawaiian coast and the beautiful water. Say “sup” to some dolphins and play some rocking tunes as you partake in this awesome excursion.

OUTER BANKS HIGHWAY, NORTH CAROLINA

This is the perfect drive to be surrounded by water. You’ll have the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Intracoastal Waterway on the other. You’ll blow by some awesome lighthouses, beaches, and see some spectacular wildlife that will hopefully not poop on your head. But if a bird does poop on your head on this drive you’ll be stoked because it will be poop from a beautiful bird that is local to North Carolina. You’ll say “oh yeah!” as you pull out a bandana to wipe your head off. Now you have a travel memento.

SONOMA VALLEY, CALIFORNIA

Take a drive through the wine country and enjoy the beauty of the vineyards amongst the rolling grassy hills that make up the Sonoma Valley. Just be careful when you decide to pull in to one of the many spectacular wineries for a glass or two because you don’t want to turn this convertible road trip into a night in the drunk tank. Be careful if you decide to partake in the wine, and maybe park the convertible and get a ride to the winery if you plan on doing some serious “tasting.”

BLUEBONNET TRAIL, TEXAS 

This drive is extremely beautiful thanks to the, you guessed it, Bluebonnet gardens that run alongside the road. You may not feel really rugged and cool driving through some flowers but it’s impossible to not be swept away by all the gorgeous views these flowers create. By the end of this trip, you’ll understand how a rugged person like yourself can still be swept away by the beauty of a flower and that’s totally okay. Go on this wonderful convertible drive to become a more well-rounded person.


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Guides

Check Out This Proposed Trail Across America!

This epic proposal promises a coast-to-coast trail for the ultimate outdoorsman. 

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Come one, come all, but especially come cyclists and hikers. There is a new project proposal of the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy (RTC), the nation’s largest trails organization. that offers the possibility of the greatest trail in America. For the first time in American history, “The Great American Rail-Trail” will be the longest and most ambitious trail project of its kind. Only the highest trail quality types are suitable for this project. From long-distance cyclists to casual explorers, to runners, all will be able to appreciate the journey set forth by this proposal.

Stretching over 3,700 miles, the trail will reach between Washington DC to Washington state. Foot-based travelers will traverse over 125 existing trails, greenways, and additional multiuser paths through 12 states: Washington D.C., Maryland, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Iowa, Nebraska, Wyoming, Montana, Idaho, and finally Washington. At the moment, over 52% of the route is pre-existing.

 

Criteria set forth by the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy demand that a minimum of 80% of the trails are initially separated from vehicle traffic. Eventually, 100% of the trails are expected to be separated. Once the proposal, funding, and expected successes are in place, 90 trails gaps between these pre-existing trail will be completed.

For over 30 years, the RTC has had their mind of this incredible new project. They have worked with several dozen state agency representatives and hundreds (if not thousands) of trail partners to accurately assess and plan out the preferred trail routes.

The trails featured on this national treasure will represent the beauty and trail priorities of the states that contain them and as well as their local jurisdictions that host and maintain them. Plus, this project will be an unbelievable catalyst for local economic development and provide new services and routes for long-distance travelers.

The RTC has partnered with state and local trail officials to define the premier and preferred route for this “first-of-its-kind” trail. A comprehensive route assessment was established after a 12-month long analysis using detailed GIS (geographic information system) database with information from more than 34,000 miles of existing routes. Reviews from 300 state and local trails were explored to plan future trail additions as well.

 

“We have the chance to create from that vision a national treasure that unites millions of people over thousands of miles of trail… This trail is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to provide – together – an enduring gift to the nation that will bring joy for generations to come,” stated Ryan Chao, the president of the Rail-Trail Conservancy.


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Guides

These Disney World Hacks Can Save You Some Magic

Kids and adults alike love Disney World. Parents, make the trip even more magical by saving some $$$. 

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     Disney World has long been called “The Happiest Place On Earth.” We’re sure that if you pulled a Bill Murray in “Ground Hog’s Day,” it would take you decades to come across a disappointing day in the park. I mean really, who could tire of this place? Childhood characters (heroes) roam freely, there are rides for every age, Main Street is always full of excitement (cough parades cough), there are tons of unhealthy treats that are oh so delicious, and the fact that everyone is treated like a Prince and Princess is the icing on the cake. Literally, this place is practically perfect. Well, almost. The Happiest Place On Earth does demand a healthy investment for a weekend vacation. Still, we found four tips to help you save some magic to truly spend on more memorable aspects of your visit.

 

 

The Obvious

Like many of our online purchases today, online discount codes are available at seemingly every turn. However, there’s a trick when it comes to Disney coupon codes. It may take a few attempts, but we suggest you create a “few” Disney accounts to ensure their algorithm picks up your interest and intent on booking a vacation in one of their parks. Surely, their online computer systems will give you some sort of offer code or automatically provide a discount when they feel you’re locked-in to book.

 

The Heat

Florida is hot. Depending on what time of year you decide to stay, it may be really hot… and muggy. So play it smart when it comes to hydration. Rather than paying a premium for Disney-branded water bottles sold in the park, bring your own reusable bottles. Each park has ice water dispensers scattered everywhere. Additionally, service counters in restaurants will always offer you a small free cup of ice water, with or without a purchase

 

The Souvenirs

Don’t fall victim to the incessant fees of the cravable Disney souvenirs. Say what you want, but they are typically overpriced, no matter how much you love Disney. With that in mind, head to the Character Warehouse, located at the Orlando Vineland Premium Outlets shopping center. Yes, the items sold here are from last season, but they typically see a 50% discount. And don’t worry, they’re all official items. Nearby hotels even offer free shuttle service to this shopping center.

 

The Hotel

Disney World and its properties are magical. There’s no denying that. But again, Disney charges a premium for a stellar hotel experience. Sadly, rates can start around $350 a night. Therefore, save a buck and spend most of your time as a super nearby Value Resort. Take the savings and go all-out by spending a final night or two at the Grand Floridian or the Polynesian Resort.

 

These tips may be simple but they are successful.


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