spring & summer 2010
The biannual newsmagazine of the OSCO Construction Group
OSCO construction Life is a group Highway: Profile on Transportation Projects
Picadilly Potash Mine • Bayers Road Parking Garage • P3 Schools • Irving Refinery • Engineering Spotlight • 2010 OSCOR Nominees what we do
pg.8 pg.16 pg.21
What’s Inside... spring & summer 2010
24 Pouring it On: Ready-Mix Update what we do Summerside Seawall Repair; Summerside Waste Treatment; Crandall University 3 Message from the President 25 Irving Oil Refinery Dehexanizer 4 Life is a Highway - Transportation Profile Marque Industrial performs Electrical and Instrumentation installation Fairview Overpass; Larry Uteck Boulevard Interchange; One Mile Inter- change; Princess Margaret Bridge 26 York Miscellaneous Metals Division Updates 8 Picadilly Potash Ocean Steel calls on all three plants for Sussex, NB project how we do it 10 135 North Street 27 Group Safety News FCC Civil; Strescon Precast; Ocean Steel; and FCC Electrical team up on Bridgewater, NS office building 28 Engineering Spotlight 12 East Saint John Terminal Dock Steel Division Engineers; UNB Engineering Tour; Stantec Tour OSCO Group team effort helps bring together Canaport project 30 25 Year Club Dinner 13 Garden Stone Place OSCO Group inducts largest group ever to long-service club Strescon provides architectural precast for mixed-use development 31 OSCORS: 14 Bayers Road Parking Garage OSCO Group celebrates its employees with recognition dinner Strescon precast helps Halifax developer solve parking issues 16 Projects in the Precast Pipeline who we are Strescon Pipe offers complete package to Twin Brooks subdivision; 32 Helping Hands: OSCO Group community contributions Strescon Pipe provides stormwater solution to new Costco 18 Customer Profile: Bird Construction 32 Haiti Relief: $9883.50 in combined employee/corporate donations 19 Two Green P3 Schools for NB 32 The Give Strescon precast helps Rexton and Moncton schools achieve LEED 33 Throwing a Lifeline: Ocean Steel employee saves coworker’s life certification 33 Take Our Kids to Work Day 20 All Wired Up: FCC Electrical & Com Cabling Updates Acadia Broadcasting; MSD Sand & Gravel Plant; Canada Post 34 Curling Bonspiel 20 Marque Industrial Project Updates: 34 Coming Events East Saint John Marine Terminal; Irving Oil Refinery; Irving Pulp & Pa- per; Irving Paper; Lake Utipia Paper; Potash Mine 34 Irving Hockey League: FCC Chiefs take championship 21 Martins Point 35 Strescon Ski Night Strescon design-builds garage underneath Portland, ME health center 35 Fresh Faces 22 Rebar Update OSCO Eastern Wastewater Treatment Facility; NBCC Allied Health Center; CFB 35 Congratulations construction Gagetown tunnels; misc projects 36 Our Locations group
CONNECTIONS is the biannual magazine of the OSCO on the cover... Construction Group, published every Spring and Fall to share news and information with our valued customers & employees
OSCO Concrete’s Nova Scotia plants pump Comments and submissions are greatly appreciated and may be sent ready-mix for the Fairview Overpass project to the editor: Tammy Legacy, c/o OSCO Construction Group • 400 in Bedford, NS. Chesley Drive, Saint John, NB • Canada • E2K 5L6 • email: legacy.tammy@ 2 oceansteel.com what we do
Message from the President
Today’s reality is that our customers expect us specified so that quality is never compromised! to perform to a higher standard than ever before. We take great pride in doing a quality job. This is not unique to our construction group; nor 3rd – Schedule : We work very hard keep our to our industry. As individual consumers we expect promised delivery dates; but never at the this same high standard no matter what we buy. expense of taking safety shortcuts or doing a Just ask Toyota if they would like to have a “do- poor-quality job. over” on how they handled their recent vehicle problems! Like our customers, we all have expecta- 4th – Costs: We all have cost budgets to meet; but our budgets are meant to allow for our tions with respect to pricing, use of our time and Sometimes we quality. Given that one of our CORE VALUES is to employees to perform their work in a safe FOCUS ON OUR CUSTOMERS’ NEEDS, we un- manner, in a 1st class fashion and within the may lose our scheduled time frame as agreed to. derstand the importance of maintaining loyal and focus while repeat customers. The above priorities are extremely important to At the same time, we have to respect the remember when performing any activities for the trying to save hazardous environment in which we work relative Group. Sometimes we may lose our focus while try- some money or to most other industries. Construction projects by ing to save some money or to speed up our perfor- their nature involve assembling a large workforce of mance. This thinking if at the expense of safety and/ to speed up our individuals, who in many cases have never worked or quality is not in keeping with how we want to run performance. together before. These trades people perform sev- our businesses. We must never compromise on this eral simultaneous tasks using products which can principle no matter who is demanding that you do This thinking, if cause severe personal injury or property damage if so. You can quote me personally on that one!! at the expense mishandled or improperly installed. Eastern Canada continues to be an active and For this reason, it’s important that we all clearly relatively healthy market whereas the east coast of of safety and/ understand what choices to make in dealing with the USA is still experiencing severe difficulty. Jobs or quality, is not the overlapping requests of the Group and our cus- are few and far between, mostly in the public sector tomers. using stimulus funding, with contractors fiercely in keeping with Usually there are four competing areas that em- chasing market share by underbidding each other. how we want ployees are often asked to prioritize: safety, quality, We remain fortunate that our reliance on the United schedule and cost. Although it can be difficult to States has diminished to the point that we can with- to run our have to pick one over the other, the wrong choice stand this upheaval for some period of time. We’re businesses. can lead to unintended consequences; both for the looking forward to better days in late-2011 to re- Group and our customer. enter the American market. In the meantime, we’ll To ensure that we always follow the right path, stay focused on the work we have and look forward I want to make it clear that in all circumstances we to more opportunities in the future. should prioritize our work as follows: 1st – Health & Safety: Never endanger yourself, any other employee nor any other parties under any circumstance Hans O. Klohn President, OSCO Construction Group 2nd – Q u a l it y : Do the work as designed and/or
www.oscoconstructiongroup.com CONNECTIONS • Spring & Summer 2010 3 SECTORwhat pwero dofilE: TRANSPORTATION
Life is a
with contributions from: ANDREW LEVATTE TRACY DOBSON DAVE DUNNETT Highway & GRANT MAXWELL Strescon Precast & OSCO Concrete Take on Transportation Projects
the use of non-reactive stone (approximately 1600T) which FAIRVIEW OVERPASS was supplied by OSCO Aggregates and Tercem3000 cement. Strescon Limited and OSCO Concrete contribute to the The first stage of the project required OSCO Concrete to refurbishment of the Fairview Overpass in Halifax, NS supply ready-mix concrete to footings in -15C temperatures. Drivers and batchers were challenged to keep the temperature The Fairview overpass is part of the busy Bedford, Nova of the concrete within the correct range to ensure proper set Scotia Highway on which thousands of people travel to and times, strength gain and code compliance. The largest single from work daily. Soon after the much publicized 2006 collapse pour was 208m3 for the columns that would support the girders. of a Montreal bridge, the Nova Scotia Department of Transportation (NSDOT) did a survey of all their bridg- STRESCON PRECAST - BOX GIRDERS es in Nova Scotia to see if any were similar in design Strescon’s Bedford plant supplied the thirty-six prestressed (cantilevered abutment). It was determined that the box girders with post tensioning ducts that were required to older section of the Fairview overpass was indeed support the deck structure of the Fairview Overpass. The box similar, so NSDOT quickly came up with a plan to girders were 33” high by 48” wide with lengths of 68’, 78’ and replace the bridge and YMCL Engineering was hired 84’ long and used 45 MPa HPC mix; which is standard for all to come up with a design for the new structure. new bridges being designed for NSDOT. There were many issues for Tom Mosher and Girder production began on December 8, 2009 and was his team at YMCL to deal with during the design phase. completed on February 5, 2010. Due to traffic restrictions, de- Height restrictions became one of the main issues, so they had livery could only be done between 9:00 am and 3:00 pm during to use a precast section that would meet all their needs. The the weekdays and anytime during the weekends. The first round new overpass design consisted of three spans arching over of deliveries started on March 1st, 2010 and by 3 pm on March Joseph Howe Drive and railway tracks. 2nd, twenty-one girders were loaded, shipped and placed. As Joseph Howe Drive had to be closed down in order for the OSCO CONCRETE - COLUMNS cranes to place the center span and the remaining part of the The Fairview Overpass project required 1500m3 of High first span, the remaining fifteen girders were loaded, shipped Performance Concrete Mix (HPC) and needed to be completed and placed in less than eight hours on Saturday March 6, 2010. between January 5, 2010 and April 1, 2010. The HPC requires
4 CONNECTIONS • Spring & Summer 2010 www.oscoconstructiongroup.com SECTOR profilE: TRANSPORTATION what we do
OSCO CONCRETE - BRIDGE DECK that a new overpass was needed to reduce the traffic on the The bridge deck was scheduled to be poured early on the existing infrastructure and divert it to Route 102 - the Bicen- morning of March 24, however due to high winds and a bright tennial Highway. sunny day the pour had to be delayed until 3:00 pm and was CBCL Limited along with Harbourside Engineering was not completed until 10:30 pm. This helped to prevent shrink- hired by NSDOT to design the solution - 102 Exit 2B - Larry age cracking in the surface of the fresh concrete, due to the Uteck Boulevard Interchange, located between Kearney Lake sun exposure and high winds. The deck required 181m3 of Road and Hammonds Plains Road, Halifax County, NS. The HPC concrete and was placed using OSCO’s concrete pumps, new interchange connects Larry Uteck Boulevard with High- the 52 meter long boom pump at one end of the bridge and way 102. The plan also includes a multi-use trail to pro- the 36 meter long boom pump at the other. The bridge is vide pedestrians and cyclists a safe and convenient expected to open mid April. crossing of the Bicentennial Highway. PRECAST CONCRETE Larry Uteck Boulevard Strescon’s Bedford plant supplied sixteen prestressed, New England Bulb Tee girders (NEBT) Interchange girders for the two spans over Highway 102. The 90’ Bedford, Nova Scotia has experienced spectacular growth long, 1400mm deep girders were produced with a 55 over the past few years. Between the continued growth of MPa High Performance Concrete Mix for Dexter Construc- Hemlock Ravine Sub division and development of The Parks tion and the Nova Scotia Department of Transportation and of West Bedford - a the new residential/business district, the Infrastructure Renewal. Bedford highway has to accommodate an ever-increasing traf- Strescon started production on December 1st, 2009 and fic flow. To help relieve some of the congestion it was decided finished on January 18th, 2010. Delivery started on February 4th, continued next pg... Strescon Precast & OSCO Concrete Take on Transportation Projects
Photos this page: Fairview Overpass
www.oscoconstructiongroup.com CONNECTIONS • Spring & Summer 2010 5 what we do SECTOR profilE: TRANSPORTATION
Larry Uteck Interchange Larry Uteck Interchange
... continued from previous pg
2010 with twelve girders being loaded, shipped and placed in less than eight hours. Due to lack of daylight hours, the remaining four girders were placed on the following day. READY-MIX CONCRETE OSCO Concrete was contracted to pour concrete for the Larry Uteck Overpass, which required a total of 1500 meters of ready-mix. Pouring began October 2009. All the concrete supplied was High Performance Concrete (HPC). The speciality cement powder - TERCEM3000, was a blend of Type 10 cement, Slag, and Silica Fume, which was sup- plied by Lafarge Canada. The entire project is expected to be completed by the fall of 2010.
ONE MILE INTERCHANGE Larry Uteck Interchange The sight of cranes on the Saint John, NB skyline has become a common sight, as work continues on the One Mile House Interchange. Construction of the One Mile One Mile Interchange House Interchange represents an estimated total investment of $65 million, including related costs - a joint effort of the governments of Canada and New Brunswick who are work- ing together to improve transportation infrastructure across the province. Phase 1 of the project was completed in the spring of 2009, consisting of grading road work and soil stabilization valued at more than $3.7 million. Phase 2 began in the fall of 2009, and includes a 600-metre structure and associated ramps and roadways that will connect Route 1 to Bayside Drive, and cross the CN rail yard, Marsh Creek and Rothe- say Avenue. Fundy Contractors Ltd. of St. George was the selected bidder to build the viaduct substructure for the project, with the work valued at more than $31.5 million. The entire project is expected to be complete by the fall of 2012.
6 CONNECTIONS • Spring & Summer 2010 www.oscoconstructiongroup.com SECTOR profilE: TRANSPwhatORT AweTION do
READY-MIX CONCRETE Princess Margaret Bridge Strescon Ready-Mix’s Saint John Plant has been supplying The Princess Margaret Bridge is a 2-lane highway bridge Fundy Contractors with a special mix for the One Mile Inter- crossing the St. John River at Fredericton, New Brunswick, change, alongside Valley Concrete (owned by Fundy Contrac- named after HM Queen Elizabeth II’s sister. Opened in 1959 tors). The pours have been extremely large, so 2 plants are as part of a Route 2 Trans-Canada Highway bypass project needed to keep a continuous round the clock flow. The first around Fredericton, the bridge now carries Route 8, the prima-
Lavalin has chosen Strescon to produce and deliver approximately 250 pieces of full-width deck sections, with a contract value of almost $5 million.
pour was completed on March 10 - 11th and ran for ry Fredericton-Miramichi highway. The steel truss structured about 30 hours. The pour consisted of about 1800 bridge measures 1075 m (0.7 mile) in length, with a clearance cubic metres, with Strescon supplying 700 metres. of 25.6 m (85 ft) in the center. The challenge was to keep other customers sup- There has been a lot of public concern in recent years as plied, as well as keeping drivers fresh. The drivers to the safety of the bridge. Due to its age and condition, its worked 12 hour shifts until the job was done. weight limits had to be reduced from 62,500 kg to 43,500 kg A second pour took place the following week, in November 2009. consisting of approximately 1200 cubic metres over a This past February, the NB Government announced that 21 hour period. A third pour is expected to happen sometime in SNC Lavalin had been awarded a $77.3 million contract to April or May, which will be in the 2800 cubic metre size. refurbish the bridge. SNC-Lavalin Construction’s mandate will include removal and replacement of the bridge deck and floor PRECAST PIPE PRODUCTS beams, replacement of the bridge guardrail, concrete removal, capping of the bridge piers and abutments, painting, and up- Subsurface work is also needed on a job of this size, espe- grading and refurbishment of the structural steel work. cially since it is being constructed basically inside the city with With the deck deteriorating rapidly and weight restrictions all the normal underground infrastructure that entails. Before in place, the schedule is of great importance. SNC Lavalin began work could be started on the abutments and building the work this spring and will be phasing the project over two con- ramps, the underground piping had to be moved and modi- struction seasons, with an expected completion date of Decem- fied. Galbraith construction undertook this work in 2008 with ber 2011. During the 2010 season, the bridge will be closed to supply from Strescon Concrete Pipe Division of 76 pieces of traffic beginning June 19th and reopening on August 8th. 18” (450mm) concrete pipe and 20 manhole structures in sizes of 42” (1050mm) to 48” (1200mm) for both sanitary and storm. PRECAST CONCRETE When the current phase of the work started, Strescon sup- plied storm catch basins and manholes to pick up the storm Lavalin has chosen Strescon to produce and deliver ap- drainage, to Fundy contractor on the Rothesay Avenue end proximately 250 pieces of full-width deck sections, with a of the project, as well as storm pipe and manhole T-bases to contract value of almost $5 million. Debly on the route 1 end of the work. Strescon has ordered three new steel forms to produce Safety is always a major issue on any size piece of work the required shapes and meet the schedule. Typical units but on something this large with the quantity of vehicles and weigh approximately 57,000 lbs, with some special units hitting speeds traveled, concrete barriers were needed to keep the 100,00 lbs. The units will be poured inside Strescon’s Saint workers safe. Fundy Contractors purchased over 100 M-6 John, NB shop to ensure quality control and curing time lines median barriers from Strescon’s Concrete Pipe Division to en- are met. The units will then be shipped to the site, where they close the site from passing traffic. Debly Enterprises have also will be erected and post-tensioned in longitudinal sections purchased 30 concrete barriers to delineate traffic. along the bridge spans to produce a new high-performance concrete deck which will extend the life of the bridge for many years to come.
www.oscoconstructiongroup.com CONNECTIONS • Spring & Summer 2010 7 what we do
Ocean Steel calls on all three plants for Sussex, Picadilly Potash NB project contributed by BERNIE BLAKELY, JEFF KEITH & JASON PRESLEY
8 CONNECTIONS • Spring & Summer 2010 www.oscoconstructiongroup.com Salt Storage on the left & Wet Mill Phase 1 on the right what we do
these groups was just one of the many challenges faced by Ocean Steel in bring- ing these two head frames to comple- tion. Both of the head frames towers not only had to be supplied with structural steel that was required for the future permanent mining operation, but the structural frame also had to incorporate steel items which would be used during the two year long shaft sinking phase. Some of the permanent steel which has been designed and detailed cannot even be installed until after the sinking phase is complete and the mine shafts are ready to be set up for their permanent daily processes. It has been a real team effort with steel fabrication being provided by all three of our fabrication shops. The fabrication of this steel, espe- cially the steel items required for the shaft The Picadilly Potash Mine Project has continued to be the driving force sinking phase, has been challenging. in the Steel Sector. This project has fed all three of our steel plants Taking on this work meant the fabrication throughout the end of 2009, and will continue to do so well into the and supply of many miscellaneous items foreseeable future of 2010. such as fully assembled dump doors, backsplashes, machined lifting plates and lugs, rubber isolators, chutes, bins, hinged stairs, etc. All of this specialized s with most multi-thousand ton, one piece. This project was detailed work required a lot of coordination, not heavy industrial projects, circum- in-house, fabricated in all three plants only from a fabrication point of view, but Astances can sometimes change (Saint John, NB; Fredericton, NB; and also in coordination of details for shop fairly quickly. Ocean Steel has shown its Conklin, NY) and is being erected by drawings and material procurement. strengths in adapting to these changes Ocean Steel’s Erection division. Erection of these projects has been by working closely with AMEC to consis- Phase 2 of the Wet Mill Building is shared between the Ocean Steel and tently provide an on-time, quality prod- expected to begin in the summer of MQM erection crews. Ocean Steel’s iron- uct. All three of our fabrication plants, 2010. This Phase will consist of a 3000 workers installed steel for the Collar and as well as our in-house Engineering, and ton Grinding, Flotation and Regrinding Sub Collar levels, while MQM’s ironwork- Detailing Departments have contributed Area and a 705 ton Reagent and Electri- ers erected the exterior buildings and greatly to the success of this project. cal Area. steel within the head frame towers. The Our Paint Shops have also done a great job in keeping up with the three-coat The erection of steel within the two towers has been paint system required. especially complex, as the crane operator has had to Wet Mill Building operate blindly while flying steel down into the 300 ft Erection of Phase 1 of the Wet Mill high concrete towers. Building began on November 30th, 2009. This portion of the building will be Headframes erection of steel within the two towers a Storage Area for tailings (materials left has been especially complex, as the crane Ocean has supplied over 2,400 tons over after the raw ore is processed). This operator has had to operate blindly while of structural steel, 37,000 lbs of metal phase of the Wet Mill Building required flying steel down into the 300 ft high decking, and 1,400 FRP stair treads for 2250 tons of structural steel & 83,000 concrete towers. The toughest erection the Service and Production head frame square feet of roof decking. is yet to come as both towers are fit with complexes. Each head frame complex is In this structure there are 42 shop a steel framed enclosure which sits upon made up of several buildings outside of welded trusses made from WF shapes. the top of the head frame concrete wall. the concrete head frame tower, as well as Fourteen of the trusses are 110’ long Detailing services for these projects structural steel and miscellaneous items weighing 16 tons each. These trusses has been completed by various com- (chutes, gates, sheaves supports, etc) were shipped in 2 pieces and assembled panies including our own Ocean Steel within the tower. on site. The 66’ long trusses at 8 tons detailing office, ProDraft, Trusquin and Structural steel for these structures each and the 88’ long trusses at 14 MQM. Design and detailing of the leave was designed by multiple structural en- tons each were shipped to the site as out steel is still ongoing. gineering groups. The interface between
www.oscoconstructiongroup.com CONNECTIONS • Spring & Summer 2010 9 what we do
contributed by BRIAN MATTHEWS & ANDREW LEVATTE
135 North Street
10 CONNECTIONS • Spring & Summer 2010 www.oscoconstructiongroup.com what we do
Construction is currently distinctive image. FCCworking with Tom Johnson The use of architectural precast con- Architects, assisted by Fundy Engineer- crete also offers years of maintenance ing and MCW Maricor to design and free operation. Quality precast concrete, construct a new 20,000 square feet, two produced and erected under strin- storey office building for Commercial gent quality controls, effectively resists Properties Limited. Located at 135 North corrosion and damage and retains its Street, Bridgewater, NS, good looks for years with no significant staining, discolouration or surface decay. Construction Management Required maintenance is low - saving the owners significant money and inconve- FCC’s Project Manager for the nience over the life of the structure. building is Brian Matthews, while on-site work has been overseen by FCC Superintendent Dan Griffin. Structural Steel The base building consists of a Ocean Steel fabricated and erected steel frame, clad with architectural the steel on this project under steel precast concrete panels. The con- Project Manager, Theresa Leblanc. In crete panels will be complimented by total, OSCO supplied 86 tons of Struc- glazed aluminum curtain walling, pro- tural Steel; 225 squares of metal deck; viding the overall finished appearance. and 20 tons of joists. Erection was com- The project scope also includes: new pleted in the Fall of 2009. entrance roads; parking lots; retaining walls; and new landscaping to match Electrical the existing surroundings. Building FCC Electrical is currently working construction and fit-out projects are on the base building electrical contract currently ongoing and FCC is looking for the Bridgewater office. This electri- to complete the project by June 2010. cal project involved the installation of a new 600amp, 600volt main power Architectural Precast service entrance, four separate tenant Strescon’s Bedford, NS plant sup- utility metering units, exterior parking lot plied unique Architectural Precast wall lighting, new interior power distribution cladding on this project. The devel- system, base building interior lighting, 135 oper wanted the new office building to exit lighting, and power for all mechani- blend into local surroundings, which is mainly traditional brick This project is a prime illustration of construction, so Strescon used rubberized brick formliners to the diverse architectural effects that North create a base master-mold. precast concrete can provide. From this mold, 12 foot wide precast wall panels were produced with cal systems. FCC supervisor Rick Heth- the impression of brick. The 57 panels erington, site foreman Delbert Noble Street (approximately 13,000 square feet) will and their team of electricians have been be stained on site, making the panels working diligently towards the sched- virtually indistinguishable from real brick. uled completion date. This project is a prime illustration of the diverse architectural effects that The ground floor (10,000 square precast concrete can provide. Rich feet) will be occupied by Canada Post aggregates, decorative shapes, reveals, and used as the main sorting office for attractive stone, masonry veneers the South Shore of Nova Scotia. The and now formliner treatments can all space will also include a retail outlet be employed to express a wealth of which will serve as the main Post Office architectural detail in virtually any finish for the town of Bridgewater. or texture. Precast concrete is not only The first floor of the building (5000 compatible with all structural systems, square feet) is to be occupied by Acadia it can be designed to harmonize with Broadcasting, known locally as CKBW and complement all other materials. radio serving the South Shore. The re- Designs can range from historical to mainder of the space is to be let to a yet contemporary and project a strong, unidentified tenant.
www.oscoconstructiongroup.com CONNECTIONS • Spring & Summer 2010 11 what we do East Saint John Terminal Dock OSCO Group Team Effort Helps Bring Together Canaport Project
contributed by LUKE JOHNSON he landscape has changed drastically portion of the building exterior consists of alumi- in recent months at the Canaport East num louvers and insulated sheet metal liner panels. TSaint John Terminal Dock in Saint John, The roof consists of a steel deck and a modified NB, where new substation and pumphouse bituminous roofing assembly with stucco covering buildings have been erected on the prop- the roof curbs and soffits. These buildings are not erty owned by Irving Oil. The buildings only architectural unique but will prove to be highly were completed under the manage- functional and durable additions to the Canaport ment and supervision of FCC Construc- East Saint John Terminal Dock. tion, who began work on the structures in October of 2009. Other OSCO Group SUBSTATION The Electrical Substation was built to house team members participated in the project as the switch gear , motor control center, variable well, including: Strescon, who provided the precast frequency drives and other electrical equipment concrete panels; Ocean Steel, who for a new Vapour Recovery Unit (VRU) adjacent fabricated and erected the to the building. The VRU will connect directly to structural steel; OSCO Re- the gas tanks on docked tanker ships and draw bar; and OSCO Concrete, gas fumes out of the tank to prevent them from whose Strescon-SJ plant entering the surrounding air. The fumes will then provided the ready-mix. be filtered and the filtered material will be added Substantial Comple- to the refinery process. tion of the project was on Feb 26th, 2010. FCC’s Project Man- PUMPHOUSE ager for the project was Luke The second building is a Fire Water Pumphouse Johnson, while Dick Babcock to supplement the existing fire fighting capabilities served as Site Superintendent. on the East Saint John Terminal Dock. The pum- These structures have phouse will house pumps and other equipment. It been built as part of a larger will also link to an adjacent product tank that has modernization project on the been remediated to provide fire water storage. East Saint John Terminal. The modernization includes PRECAST construction of a new ter- Strescon Precast’s Saint John plant supplied 23 minal building, installation insulated precast panels for the projects, includ- of a new vapour reduction ing 12 panels (1,320 sq.ft.) for the pump-house and system and expansion of 11 panels (1,320 sq.ft.) for the substation. Due to fire fighting capabilities. excessively busy schedules for Strescon’s erectors, weekend erection was required for this project, building design which took place on Saturday Nov 21st, 2009. The Both the substation precast Project Manager was Brendan Clancy. and pumphouse are of similar construction. The STRUCTURAL STEEL buildings are mounted on Ocean Steel’s Saint John plant provided 34 concrete foundations and tons of Structural Steel and 34 squares of deck, consist of structural steel which was erected in November, 2009. Steel Proj- frames supporting con- ect Manager was Jill Layton. crete precast panels on the REBAR bottom two thirds of the OSCO Rebar supplied & installed of 7.1 Tons building exterior. The upper of rebar for the structures.
CONNECTIONS • Spring & Summer 2010 www.oscoconstructiongroup.com 12 what we do
arden Stone Place is a seven-storey, mixed-use, commer- cial/retail/residential development located in the Hydros- Gtone District; a Canadian National Historic Site. The project is located on the Southwest corner of Kaye and Isleville Streets, in Halifax, Nova Scotia. The building will include 9000 sqft of retail space on the ground floor and 10,000 sqft of commercial on the second floor. The five level 30-unit residential apartment complex is located above the retail and commercial floors, set back approximately 15 feet, to provide a landscaped open space and leisure areas for the residents. The new development also houses two levels of under- ground parking, accommodating approximately 50 vehicles. Michael Napier, Architect for the project, noted the articulation of the narrow shop fronts with protection from the elements. The large areas of glass and frequent entries at grade, all form the basis of a pedestrian oriented commercial environment. The zero lot-line setback on Kaye Street corresponds to the traditional retail street found at the Hydrostone Market. The exterior building material for the two-storey commercial base is masonry, while the residential tower is clad with Architec- tural Precast concrete, combined with metal panels and fibre ce- ment siding encompassing the balconies. The Architectural Precast concrete adds class and dignity to the residential tower. The addition of a cornice feature, combined with a horizontal band at the seventh floor, adds interest to the building, while providing style and grace to the overall complex. Each apartment unit will have either a full balcony, a french balco- ny, or a terrace, with metal rails articulating the residential façade. Strescon Limited’s Bedford, NS plant supplied approximately 100 architectural precast concrete panels which were installed in less than six days - WOW that is equal to a floor a day! What other building material can enclose a building that quick? Precast Project Manager: Steve MacDonald Garden Stone Place
contributed by ANDREW LEVATTE
www.oscoconstructiongroup.com CONNECTIONS • Spring & Summer 2010 13 what we do
Bayers Road Parking Garage
contributed by ANDREW LEVATTE
14 CONNECTIONS • Spring & Summer 2010 www.oscoconstructiongroup.com what we do
The Background: One of the main shopping districts in tee beams; 6 shearwalls; 16 litewalls; 3 stair panels; and 16 stairs Halifax in the 1980’s, the Bayers Road Shopping Center once with landings) was completed as the site work wrapped up. held 91 stores, along with a cast-in place parking garage. By the 1990’s however, a shift occurred in the way people shopped, Erection Challenges: By mid November, Strescon’s when a newly developed big-box store area became the hot erection crew was mobilizing on site to start installation of the spot. The Bayers Road Shopping Center declined rapidly and new parking garage. The garage’s proximity to the high tension soon changed ownership. The new owners tried modernizing. power lines presented a big challenge. Garages are typically They gave the complex a European flavor and renamed it “The installed with large conventional crawler cranes, but this loca- Village at Bayers Road” but the changes were not enough to tion required the crane to swing very close to the power lines prevent tenants from relocating. To add to the problems, the to install loadbearing precast components directly underneath. cast-in-place parking garage had to be torn down, because the Chris Greer, Strescon’s Erection Manager, devised a plan to concrete structure was quickly deteriorating and became a haz- erect this precast first, with two smaller 66-ton RT hydraulic ard for the general public. This spiraling demise continued until cranes, but it would require the power to be shut down for a the early 2000’s when the complex was sold to the Ramia family. week. Numerous meetings between Nova Scotia Power, Rank Inc and Strescon were required to coordinate. When Project Turning it Around: Everyone who knew the Ramia’s told Manager, J.P Lachance; Bedford Plant Manager, John Fraser; them they were crazy for buying the shopping center, but the and Chris Greer; all of Strescon, met one final time with NS Ramias had a vision. Joe, George and family quickly converted Power to hash out the details, November 12th was finally the complex to what it was named - a village. Offices were -in agreed as the first day of erection. The first piece of precast troduced where stores were once located and the empty spaces was installed that morning, and two and a half days later, all the quickly filled up. To keep up with demand, they added a 5-storey loadbearing precast components under the power lines were office building in the parking lot. Once the mall’s last anchor installed so the large 400 ton crawler crane could be moved store moved out, the Ramias capitalized on growing demand into place to erect the main portion of the garage. All 316 and built a modern, 5-storey glass office tower with approxi- pieces of precast were installed in less than four weeks - that’s mately 275,000 square feet, where Zeller’s once stood. an average of more than twenty pieces a day!
urning a derelict shopping center into a high-end office complex takes a lot of vision - something the TRamia family (Rank Inc) has plenty of. Over the past few years, they’ve done just that to the former Bayers Road Shopping Center in Halifax, NS. This past fall, they took the next step when they hired Strescon’s Halifax Bayers Road Parking Garage plant to build a new three level Total Precast parking garage to compliment the complex.
Design & Planning: Knowing they would soon need The Needs - Why Precast?: The Ramia’s decided on more parking, George Ramia contacted Strescon about building a precast due to a number of factors. They wanted a high quality total precast parking garage. After looking at numerous locations garage with little maintenance which could stand up to the for the garage it was finally agreed to put it near the high-tension coastal Halifax climate. They also wanted an open garage with power lines between Petro Canada and the new glass tower. few obstructions, so tenants could feel secure when coming to, When the Ramia’s construct a new building they do not and leaving work. As with all projects, cost was also a factor. take it lightly. They research every option to make sure they are How did PRECAST meet those needs? building exactly what is required for their needs, with the best Quality & Maintenance: Special high-strength concrete mixes quality materials. Many layouts were looked at for the garage were used to prevent chloride attack. Pretopped double- before a three level, single-helix, two-way traffic design was tees drastically reduce the maintenance required with site picked. The resulting 500 x 117 foot garage would add just over topped tees or cast-in place garages. 700 parking stalls - giving them more than 2000 stalls on the Security: Strescon’s specially designed litewalls and shearwalls entire site, while allowing for future expansion. provides many openings through the concrete walls so To make sure the design would fit in with their new com- there are no blind spots where people can hide. plex, a 3D model of the site was constructed including the C o s t : The design allowed the spandrel panel height to be parking garage, so the whole family could review the proposal. increased, which removed the need for perimeter railings. Architect Noel Fowler went through numerous spandrel designs Stairwells were also designed inboard of the structure to before the optimum design was found. With the design finalized, reduce the number of pieces. construction could finally start. In September 2009, Eisener Contracting broke ground. The Everything considered, this garage will have many genera- foundation work started soon after, with formwork contractor tions of service life. Strescon has built numerous total precast Lead Structural Formwork Limited at the helm. Strescon started parking garages throughout the Maritimes and Eastern U.S., and construction on the precast components at the same time site even with the Atlantic freeze-thaw cycling, they are still stand- work started. In less than two months, production on the 316 ing tall. A number of them now have over 30 years of service in, precast components (200 - 10ft double tees; 24 columns; 40 with many years of life left. Why would anyone choose any other loadbearing spandrels; 9 non-loadbearing spandrels; 4 inverted material?
www.oscoconstructiongroup.com CONNECTIONS • Spring & Summer 2010 15 what we do
PIPE DIVISION UPDATE • Working With Clients to Provide New and Customized Solutions
GRAVITY WALL: Precast segmental retain- ing wall components are stacked to form a facing on the compacted soil behind the wall; making them stable Projects in the enough to resist any lateral soil forces due to their mass and the force of gravity.
MSE WALL: Precast segmental retaining wall Precast Pipeline components are stacked to form a facing on the to maximize the developable space - a com- compacted soil, but also Strescon Pipe Offers mon requirement for clients, to economize incorporate a geo-grid their site development. By planning a wall that anchoring system to de- Complete Package was a combination of straight gravity wall and velop the soil mass behind MSE wall, Strescon was able to offer an eco- the wall and resist the soil contributed by DAVID WEBB nomical solution that met the requirements of forces, rather than relying this particular site. on gravity alone. In October 2009, Strescon’s Nova Scotia Strescon collaborated with Strum Envi- Pipe division received an order from ACL ronmental to prepare the design and detailed WHICH TO USE? Construction Limited, to supply material on construction drawings for the largest of the The height and construc- Twin Brooks Subdivision Phase 3. The project four walls. Shipments began to the site in tion of any wall is influ- is a fourteen hectare addition to an existing November of 2009. ACL Construction crews enced by the nature of the development located off Jackladder Drive in worked steadily on construction into Decem- existing foundation soil; Middle Sackville, N.S.. The order consisted of ber and before Christmas the wall had been the soil being retained; and supplying precast concrete pipe, manholes, completed. The other three walls, designed the topography of the site. headwalls and ReCon retaining wall system. in-house as gravity walls, are slated for instal- When the practical limits of Strescon was selected as supplier, in part, due lation in Spring 2010 along with the balance of height for a gravity wall de- to our ability to provide both the concrete pipe and manholes. In total, Strescon will be sign are reached, it can be pipe infrastructure, as well as the precast seg- supplying over 1200 ReCon Blocks - approxi- converted to an MSE style mental retaining walls for the customer. mately 6500 SF of wall, along with 36 man- wall. By offering larger pre- The site development plans by KVM Con- holes, catch basins and pipe. cast concrete blocks, higher sultants Limited called for thirty-six new pre- By offering a complete package of walls can be constructed as cast manhole structures as well as reinforced infrastructure and drainage products to our gravity style walls without concrete pipe, the site conditions also required customers, along with innovative designs and requiring geo-grid. In some four retaining walls be installed. The largest the functionality of a big-block segmental re- cases, this assists in push- of the walls was bordering the back edge of taining wall system like ReCon, Strescon Pipe ing the wall closer to the four lots on a cul-de-sac and was planned at Division was the supplier of choice on this and property limits without the approx 4.5m height. This wall was required to future projects. need to excavate further for push the back edge of the lots as close geo-grid installation. as possible to the property line in order
16 CONNECTIONS • Spring & Summer 2010 www.oscoconstructiongroup.com what we do
• Working With Clients to Provide New and Customized Solutions Projects in the Precast Pipeline
Storm Water Storage? Call Strescon! contributed by STEWART TOTTEN With limited infrastructure in the ground; flooding from On the Costco site, there was a need to store almost 1000 more frequent and heavier storms; land infill programs in mu- cubic meters of water. The designers, wanting a proven product nicipal areas; higher liability costs of ponds; and more expen- and long term life cycle, chose concrete pipe. sive land; the need to take storm water underground is be- The site services contractor, Debly Enterprises of Saint coming more apparent and prevalent. Once a rare occurence, John, contracted Strescon to supply: nearly 400 pieces of underground water storage is now becoming common. 1200mm diameter pipe; six concrete T’s; and four 2100mm di- An example of such a system was recently implemented for ameter manholes. Installation started in mid October and lasted the new Costco store In Saint John, NB. The large bulding and approximately two weeks. parking lot replaced a formerly grassed and treed area. Natural Once the initial sections were installed and properly surfaces, trees and grass allow water to soak into the ground aligned, installation went very quickly and easily. Installing pipe and hold it from running off, so their removal result in poten- in this configuration was the same as any other pipe installa- tial drainage problems. In the city of Saint John, the municipal tion - by placing the gasket on the pipe then homing the pipe “Storm Drainage Design Criteria Manual”, stipulates a zero-net together. Line and grade were constantly checked at each joint change in storm water runoff. This means the quantity of the by the use of a laser level. The structures were all pre-benched, storm runoff from the site cannot be any worse after develop- ensuring a smooth flow through the system. Once backfilled ment than it was prior to development. There was therefore a and paved, visitors to Costco will have no idea they are driving need at the Costco site to store the water and release it slowly. on top of a large pool of water (equivalent to ½ an Olympic size Stormwater ponds, once the norm for this kind of develop- swimming pool). ment, are rapidly falling out of favour. In addition to the obvi- The balance of the job included: fourteen storm manholes ous loss of land, there is the liability of having open water, the ranging in size from 1050 to 1500 mm diameter; twelve 1050 poor aesthetics of both the fencing and the garbage that gets mm sanitary manholes; a Stormceptor STC-4000; and numer- trapped; and the eventual maintenance requirements. ous catch basins.
www.oscoconstructiongroup.com CONNECTIONS • Spring & Summer 2010 17 customerwhat we pdorofile: BIRD CONSTRUCTION
Bird Construction
contributed by ANDREW LEVATTE, STEWART TOTTEN & RENÉ BÉLANGER
About Bird Construction Strescon Pipe: Strescon’s Pipe A highly respected company operating throughout Division nor- Canada, Bird Construction Company is recognized for its mally works strong commitment to the growth and prosperity of both its with subcon- clients and its people. They offer a number of contract delivery tractors to the methods to their clients, including: design-build; construction general contractor and as management; pre-construction services; and public/private such, over the years have supplied product over most of the partnerships. territory Rideau services. A few New Brunswick projects include: the St Stephen Border Crossing; the new Kent Store Company History in Grand Falls; the Walmart in Bathurst; the Miramichi Pow- Bird Construction was founded in 1920 by H.J. Bird as a er Center; the Shoppers Drug Mart in Sussex; St Joseph’s small partnership in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan. Over the past Hospital in Saint John; and the Home Depot in Fredericton. ninety years, Bird has expanded to include locations in: Calgary Strescon Pipe has also supplied numerous projects in the & Edmonton, Alberta; Halifax, Nova Scotia; Saint John, New Nova Scotia market including: Honda Canada’s regional of- Brunswick; Toronto, Ontario; Vancouver, British Columbia; and fice and the O’Regans Auto Mall. Winnipeg, Manitoba. The company recently exceeded annual OSCO Rebar: OSCO’s Rebar Division has worked on numer- billings of one billion dollars. ous Rideau projects over the years, but a few of the major Long a Western Canadian phenomenon, Bird Construction projects since the Bird/Rideau partnership include: the entered the Atlantic Canadian market in 2008 with the acquisi- St-Stephen N.B. Border Crossing; Sobey’s Fairville Blvd in tion of Rideau Construction. Rideau Construction had been Saint-John; several projects at PCS Picadilly and Penob- a major player in the construction industry since 1993, when squis sites; and the Saint John Law Courts. John Furneaux and Jim Brennan set up shop in Bedford, Nova Scotia. From day one, Rideau was successful with steady growth Strescon Precast: Strescon’s Precast Division has provided and profitability. In 2003 Rideau Construction of Nova Scotia products to both Rideau and Cardinal and Cardinal Construction of New Brunswick came together as over the years, including: Irving Pulp in one of the largest contracting companies in Atlantic Canada. Saint John, NB; Springhill Sewage Treat- The new enterprise operated under the Rideau brand until their ment Plant in Springhill, NS; UNBSJ’s KC acquisition by Bird Construction. Rideau now provides Bird with Irving Hall in Saint John, NB; Woodstock strong operations from coast to coast. Operations in Atlantic NB Canadian Tire; and Fredericton Home Canada currently operate as Bird/Rideau Construction. Depot. Most recently, Strescon’s Precast division was contracted by Bird Con- Building Relationships struction to provide exterior panels for two new P3 schools located in Moncton Over the years, members of the OSCO Construction Group and Rexton, New Brunswick. have had the pleasure to work on Bird/Rideau, Rideau and Cardinal projects both directly as well as indirectly through subcontractors.
18 CONNECTIONS • Spring & Summer 2010 www.oscoconstructiongroup.com what we do
Both schools were erected at the start of the harsh New Brunswick winter season. Rexton was erected in an astounding eight days, while Moncton took only slightly longer, at eleven days, Two Green P3 Schools for NB Strescon Precast Panels to Help in Achieving LEED Certification
The Province of New Brunswick room; a cafeteria and kitchen; and a Eleanor Graham Middle School also recently entered into a Public-Private native cultural centre. The community utilized insulated sandwich panels but Partnership (P3) to design, build, oper- has made a contribution of $100,000 with 5” of rigid insulation. In all, 89 pre- ate and maintain two new schools, toward construction of a larger gymna- cast non-loadbearing panels were used located in Rexton and Moncton North. sium. The new school is scheduled to around the classrooms while 27 precast The estimated combined capital cost of be open for the fall term of the 2010-11 loadbearing panels were used around both projects is $40 million. Design and school year. the gymnasiums, for a total square foot- construction is being managed by Bird age of 21,540 sqft. Design-Build Ltd. of Saint John, NB. MONCTON SCHOOL Both schools were erected at the The new school in Moncton North The agreement required the sale start of the harsh New Brunswick winter will be about 10,219 sq. metres (110,000 of school properties on Ryan Road in season. Rexton was erected in an as- sq. feet) in size, and will accommo- Moncton and Albany Road in Rexton, to tounding eight days, while Moncton took date 650 students from kindergarten the developer for $1.3 million. Bruns- only slightly longer, at eleven days, allow- to Grade 8. The school will include: 27 wick Learning Centres Inc. will lease ing Bird Construction to concentrate on classrooms; a literacy support room; a the facilities back to the province for $7 the interior. Strescon’s Project Manager resource centre; a technology educa- million per year. The lease fee includes on the project was Brendan Clancy. tion room; a cafeteria and kitchen; a all costs associated with the two facili- science room; two gymnasiums; two ties, including taxes, energy costs and LEED CERTIFICATION music rooms; two visual arts rooms; As part of the government’s Green maintenance. It is estimated that the two resource teaching rooms; and Buildings Program, both schools have agreement will result in savings to gov- three team teaching rooms. The school been designed to achieve a silver rating ernment of about $12 million over the is expected to be complete for the sec- under the principles of Leadership in 30-year lease term. ond term of the 2010-11 academic year. Energy and Environment Design (LEED), REXTON SCHOOL a rating system used to measure green The Eleanor W. Graham Middle STRESCON PRECAST building performance in Canada. The In the summer of 2009 Durck deW- School in Rexton will be about 5,574 LEED system rates and scores projects inter of Bird Construction approached sq. metres (60,000 based on everything from site selection; Strescon Limited to see if we were sq. feet) in size, and to building systems; to material selec- interested in bidding the exterior panels will accommodate tions; to construction practices and for the P3 school proposal. Working 300 students. It energy efficiency. very closely with their design team, FBM will include: 13 Architects and BMR Structural Engineer- classrooms; three PRECAST & LEED ing, a winning design was created. With more and more builder inter- resource teaching The panels for Moncton North est in LEED certification, precast has rooms; a resource School were insulated sandwich panels become the clear choice for many. Pre- centre; a music with 4” of rigid insulation. 75 panels cast components provide a number of room; a technol- were precast non-loadbearing around “green” advantages when seeking LEED ogy education the classrooms and 58 precast loadbear- certification, such as: plant proxim- room; a science ing panels around the gymnasiums with ity; energy efficiency; recyclability; and room; a visual arts a total square footage of 35,270 sq ft. minimal waste. room; a computer www.oscoconstructiongroup.com CONNECTIONS • Spring & Summer 2010 19 what we do All Wired Up... contributed by FCC Electrical & Communication Cabling Updates ROXANNE WALSH
Electrical & Communications Cabling custom indirect lighting and decorative motors and site lighting. Work is cur- Acadia Broadcasting Fit-Up pendent fixtures, as well as custom track rently well underway with a scheduled Location: Saint John, NB lighting. The team has been working completion of April 2010. General Contractor: FCC Civil towards an April 2010 completion date. Electrical & Communications Cabling In December 2009, FCC began renovat- Electrical Canada Post Fit-Up ing the 4000 sq ft interior office space New MSD Sand and Gravel Plant Location: Bridgewater, NS of Acadia Broadcasting’s existing facility Location: Glenholme, NS General Contractor: FCC Civil located on King Street in one of Saint General Contractor:FCC Civil John’s historic buildings. Anytime reno- FCC has been awarded the Canada Post vations take place in one of these types In November 2009, FCC Electrical began tenant fit up contract for their new 3000 of buildings, many interesting challenges work at the new Sand and Gravel plant sqft office located at the new office are encountered. in Glenholme, NS. The FCC team, led building in Bridgewater Nova Scotia. by supervisor Jim Johnson and site This project involved the installation of: The FCC Electrical & Communications foreman John Arnold were tasked with a new 200 amp, 600 volt main service team led by Ron Rathje and Nick Kil- the installation of a new NS Power high entrance; specific tenant interior lighting patrick worked with the owner’s techni- voltage underground duct bank, as well fixtures; and branch power and com- cal broadcasting team to insure proper as the electrical fit up for the new facil- munications cabling for the new office placement of wiring and equipment was ity’s control room which houses a new area, mail sorting area, and operations accomplished for the new broadcast 1200 amp service entrance, and 600 areas within the building. FCC super- booths, news and recording studios. amp, three section motor control center. visor Rick Hetherington, site fore- Along with these areas, new washrooms, All new power feeds and control wiring man Delbert Noble and their team of café/lunch area, and office spaces were were installed from the new control electricians have been working diligently renovated with all areas getting new building out to conveyors, hoppers, belt towards the scheduled completion date. Marque Industrial Updates
contributed by TOM COUGHLAN an MCC section and all required cabling started working on the new Utility Build- and grounding. ing at the Lake Utopia mill. To date we East Saint John Marine Terminal: have completed the installation of an Marque is working on the new Vapour Irving Pulp & Paper: The electrical & electrical grounding grid and will soon Recovery Unit at the terminal. Our scope instrumentation contract for the Dreggs begin working on the building electrical includes the installation of a 2 MVA trans- Washing Project has been awarded to services. former (large enough to supply 80 homes Marque. This project involves install- with electricity), 600 volt Switchgear, 2 ing 13 Variable Frequency Drives, cable Potash Mine: Marque has accepted - 600 volt Motor Control Centers, cable trays, cables, process instruments, air & a sub contract from Comstock Canada tray, power & control cables, a Program- process tubing, and all terminations. to assist them with their Compaction mable Logic Controller, Variable Frequen- Plant project. Our scope is to complete cy Drives, and a cable bus system. Irving Paper: We are nearing comple- the instrumentation portion. We are tion on the TMP Line 1 Bins project. This installing instruments throughout the Irving Oil Refinery: We are in the pro- was an energy efficiency upgrade at the plant, fabricating & installing instrument cess of installing a 650KVA Emergency mill. We performed both the electrical stands, installing process & air tubing. Generator and its associated Automatic and the instrument scope of work. We started in January of this year and Transfer Switch in the #3 Crude Unit. expect to complete this portion of the This project also requires the addition of Lake Utopia Paper: Marque recently project by this summer.
20 CONNECTIONS • Spring & Summer 2010 www.oscoconstructiongroup.com what we do
with photos & info from GERALD K. GRASSBY & BILL GATELY Martin’s Point Martin’s Point Health Care is a not-for-profit health care organiza- tion based in Portland, Maine. Martin’s Point Health Care Centers and their affiliates: Evergreen Woods Primary Care; and Bowdoin Medical Group; serve eight communities in Maine and New Hampshire. In April of 2009, Martin’s Point Health Care received approval from the Portland City Planning Board to build a 42,000 square-foot, state- of-the-art primary care medical center at the company’s main campus at 331 Veranda St.. The location, from which the company derives its name, is better known as Martin’s Point, a 12-acre tract of land at the northeast boundary of the city that juts into Casco Bay. The new building will provide all medical services on a single top-level floor. Two lower levels will be used for parking. The building will incorporate the latest in environmentally friendly technology and has received recognition as a LEED-certified (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) medical office building. Boulos/CB Ellis Company has served as owner’s representative for the project planning. Architectural, engineering and interior plan- ning work has been done by SMRT Structural Engineers, and Pizzagalli Construction Company is building the facility, which is scheduled to be completed and open to business in December 2010.
PRECAST: Strescon Limited was contracted by Pizzagalli Construc- tion to design-build a single deck garage to support the 2-storey struc- tural steel building. Rapid construction of the garage to accommodate structural steel erection was critical, but despite tight building tolerances and a crowded jobsite, Strescon successfully rose to the challenge . Precast wall panels were used as enclosure and support walls for both stair towers from garage to building structure. A series of precast ledger beams were used on 3 sides of the Marque Industrial Updates garage, which serve as both a support element and tie-back for the composite cavity wall veneer. Strescon also supplied and installed precast components for the parking deck, including: double tees; inverted tee beams; shear-walls; wall panels; and ledger beams & columns.
www.oscoconstructiongroup.com CONNECTIONS • Spring & Summer 2010 21 what we do
Rebar Update
Industrial Institutional Allied Health Centre, UNBSJ, Saint John, NB; Avondale Const. 68 Tons of rebar VBU/VRU Foundations, East Side Termi- Inverary Manor Link, Inverness, NS; nal, Saint John, NB; Gulf Operators Ltd. 94 JonelJim/Pomerleau JV, 3 phases, totalling Commercial Tons of rebar 422 Tons of rebar, 51,000 SF of mesh Confederation Court Hotel, Charlotte- Truck Dumper, Lake Utopia Paper, St. Burnt Church School, Burnt Church, NB; town, PEI; Williams Murphy Macleod Ltd, 74 George, NB; Gulf Operators Ltd. 35 Tons of Dora Construction, 48 Tons of rebar, 11200 Tons of rebar, 94080 SF of mesh. rebar SF of mesh Bridges & Wharves Bio Mass Energy Project, St. Leonard Saw Applied Science Building, Holland Col- Mill, St. Leonard, NB; JD Irving Ltd. 100 lege, Charlottetown, PEI; G.E. MacNeil Harbour Development, Black’s Harbour, Tons of rebar Const. 30 Tons of rebar NB; Fundy Contractors Ltd, 84 Tons of rebar Service Shaft Slabs, Potash Mine, Penob- E Block, NBCC Moncton, Moncton, NB; squis, NB; Cementation Canada, 84 Tons RCS Const. 26 Tons of rebar. Margaree Harbour Wharf, Margaree, NS; Albert MacDonald Ltd, 24 tons of rebar of rebar. Westwood School, Charlottetown, PEI; Production Shaft Slabs, Potash Mine, Williams Murphy MacLeod Ltd, 26 Tons of Madawaska Dam, Edmundston, NB; CRT Penobsquis, NB; Cementation Canada, 85 rebar. 16160 SF of mesh Const. 491 Tons of rebar Tons of rebar. Southeast Correctional Centre, Shediac, NB; Pomerleau Const. 50 Tons of rebar
contributed by Eastern Wastewater Treatment Facility - City of Saint John GREG TIMS
According to the Atlantic Coastal Action Program conventional activated sludge treatment plant, will service (ACAP), Saint John, New Brunswick currently discharges the East and South central areas of the city. It is located on 16 million litres of raw sewage into its harbour and streams Red Head Road in Saint John. every day - the equivalent to six Olympic-sized swimming The Program is comprised of two major project pools every 24 hours. Although Saint John is not the only components: the Eastern Wastewater Treatment Facility; municipality in Canada that dumps untreated wastewater and a Wastewater Collection System. Design work on the into its environment, it is unique in that is has open sewers Wastewater Collection System is continuing and comple- that run through the centre of the city, creating third- tion of construction for the overall Wastewater Collection world conditions in Canada’s oldest incorporated city. System is anticipated by 2012. The Saint John Harbour Cleanup refers to the infra- OSCO Rebar is currently supplying and installing 1423 structure project that will bring an end to the practice Tons of rebar on the project. They began installing rebar of discharging raw sewage into its waterways. The $88 in August of 2009 and expect to be complete by late sum- million initiative involves completing a third wastewater mer of 2010. treatment plant in east Saint John, and diverting existing Strescon Concrete’s Pipe Division has also been in- outfalls to it through lift or pumping stations. volved with this project, through the supply of infrastruc- A pivotal component in the Saint John Harbour ture products. To date, they have provided 35 structures Clean-Up initiative, work began on Saint John’s Eastern ranging in size from 30”/750mm (catch basins) to 120” Wastewater Treatment Facility in April of 2009. Pomer- /3000mm (valve chambers) as well as almost 100 pieces leau Inc. of Dartmouth, NS, is constructing the $51 million of concrete pipe ranging in size from 18”/450mm to plant. The new facility, a 35,000 m3/day secondary-level 48”/1200mm.
22 CONNECTIONS • Spring & Summer 2010 www.oscoconstructiongroup.com what we do
CFB Gagetown: Ocean Steel’s Rebar NBCC Allied Health Center division recently worked Main Tunnels on the new Allied Health Center at NBCC in Saint Ocean Steel’s Rebar division is cur- John, New Brunswick rently working on the upgrading of the for Avondale Construc- utility tunnel in Gagetown, New Brunswick tion. Ocean Steel will for Philson LTD Contractors. be providing 68.24 tons Ocean Steel began installing the 107 of rebar for the project tons of rebar in early November, 2009 at which began in January, the CFB Gagetown Military base. The job 2010. not only required rebar installation but The New building also demolition of the existing tunnels. will be located close Ocean Steel expects to be finished with to UNBSJ in Tucker the project in April of 2010. Park and will house the Strescon’s Concrete Pipe Division has New Brunswick Com- also supplied product to this site, includ- munity Colleges Health ing 33 manhole and catch basin struc- Program. Ocean Steel tures, a concrete headwall for an outfall completed their work in pipe and 2 Stormceptor 750 gallon units. March.
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www.oscoconstructiongroup.com CONNECTIONS • Spring & Summer 2010 23 what we do Summerside Waste Treatment Schurman concrete recently completed pouring 200 cubic meter of 35 MPA floor mix concrete for the City of Summer- side’s new Waste Treatment Plant. The contractor requested a low shrinkage concrete mix design, which Schurman obtained by using a series of special admixtures. The project consisted of three concrete pours beginning on March 23rd, 2010 and completing April 5th, 2010.
Summerside Seawall Repair Schurman Concrete has been pouring concrete for the Summerside, PEI Seawall repairs for Central Prince Con- struction. The original seawall consisted of steel sheet pile Pouring which had deteriorated over the years and is now being replaced with a concrete seawall. Schurman started the first round of pouring on November 5th and wrapped up for the Ready-Mix winter on December 21st, 2009. The contractors discontinued the project until spring It On Update 2010, due to winter weather conditions. Underwater divers have to help install the form panels, as well as monitor the concrete underwater as the pours take place, to ensure that there is no concrete going into the harbour. Upon completion, the project will consist of repairing Crandall University an 800 foot length of seawall at a depth of 18 feet . The Strescon’s Moncton plant has been supplying the con- concrete being used is a 35 Map strength, with 25% fly ash crete for the Crandall University (formerly Atlantic Baptist and super plasticizer added to the mix to help in the flow University) project in Moncton, NB, under General Contractor, ability. Underwater concreting is pumped thru a tremie Acadian Construction. The foundation work was completed in pipeline to the bottom of the forms which are submerged in the late fall of 2009, and Strescon started supplying concrete water. for the floors in early March. The floors are to have a “Pol- Approximately 400’ of the seawall was poured during ished Concrete Finish”, which required a special 25 Mpa mix, the first stage. The second stage, for the remaining 400’ of designed by Strescon’s Quality Control department. The mix seawall, was scheduled to begin pouring concrete on April was designed to minimize shrinkage as much as possible. 8th 2010, with a 100 cubic yard pour, followed by approxi- To date, Strescon has supplied approximately 1200 m3, mately the same amount the following week. It is expected with another 300 - 400 m3 remaining. that the project will completed by the middle of May.
24 CONNECTIONS • Spring & Summer 2010 www.oscoconstructiongroup.com howwhat we we do doit
contributed by TOM COUGHLAN Irving Oil Refinery: Dehexanizer
Irving Oil has begun work on a Dehexanizer Unit at its muscles and help to prevent strains and pulls that occur when Saint John Refinery. The new unit will reduce the amount performing strenuous tasks. We encourage our people to of Benzene and other aromatics from the gasoline refining do a few stretches throughout the day as well. This program process. This is necessary to meet upcoming environmental began in late March & an unexpected result has been a huge regulations. The project began in late 2009 and will be com- boost in morale. By the end of the exercises, all participants plete by June of 2011. are in high spirits. Marque Construction’s Industrial Division has been All our work at the Irving Oil Refinery is performed on a Ready-Mix working on the project since it began, providing construc- four day a week, ten hour a day schedule, Monday through tion support and just recently was awarded the Electrical and Thursday. This shift began in September of 2009 and since Update Instrumentation installation contract for the unit. then, the requirement for overtime has lessened and absen- teeism been dramatically reduced. In addition, the number Construction Support of times employees arrive late for work has also significantly Marque’s construction support scope began in Decem- dropped. ber of 2009 and will continue until the end of the project. It involves providing temporary power for all trades and support Irving Oil Refinery Fast Facts personnel, installing lighting in the work areas, investigative • First Canadian refinery to make high octane gasoline work for the Engineering Group, identifying Electric Heat without the use of lead additives. Tracing Points and relocating existing Instruments and other • F i r s t to offer low-sulphur gasoline, 5 years ahead of devices that are in the way of construction. regulation. • First oil company ever to receive the US EPA Clean Air Electrical & Instrumentation Excellence Award. The Electrical and Instrumentation Contract started • First and only Canadian refinery to be recognized by March 1, 2010 and is scheduled for completion in June, 2011. Hart World Fuels as “Refiner of the Year” It requires the installation of all electrical and instrumentation • First and only Canadian refinery on the east coast of required for the new unit. A small sampling of the tasks re- North America to receive crude oil from The Acropolis, a quired include installing cable trays along the pipe racks and ULCC (Ultra Large Crude Carrier)—the biggest of super- throughout the unit, installing cables (some of which weigh tankers at 410,000 dwt, holding 2.6 million barrels of more than 12,000 lbs per run) in the cable trays, performing crude. and testing thousands of wire terminations, installing and • First refinery in Canada to install CD Tech technology testing control instruments and their associated process and which makes ultra-low sulphur gasoline. air tubing, installing electric heat trace systems, and providing • First refinery to own and operate the largest product the necessary permanent unit lighting. tankers in Canada In addition to tradespeople, Marque’s project team in- • First Canadian refinery to offer low sulphur diesel ahead cludes foremen, general foremen, quality control technicians, of regulations planners, project administrators, a safety co-ordinator and a • First in Canada to use a Belco™ scrubber which removes project manager. sulphuric acid and particulates • First in Canada to regenerate sulphuric acid on-site for Working Safer; Working Efficiently use in the refining process. Marque has introduced a pre-work Stretching Program • First Canadian oil company to own and operate double for this project which involves stretching exercises at the hulled tankers. start of each shift. The goal is to warm up the tradespeople’s
www.oscoconstructiongroup.com CONNECTIONS • Spring & Summer 2010 25 contributed by CHRIS BANKS, CET
• Long Wharf Pile Cap Plates, Saint John, NB, Irving Equipment, 11.6 tons of plate • Bunker Storage Room Roof, Moosehead Brew- eries, Saint John, NB, John Flood & Sons, 4.4 tons of struct. steel • Lake Utopia Truck Dumper, Lake Utopia, NB, Gulf Operators, 4.9 tons of misc. metals • Dead End Structures, Grand Falls, NB, NB Power, 4.2 tons of struct. steel • Lifting Plates for Precast Bridge Girders, Bed- ford, NS & Saint John, NB, Strescon, 18.8 tons of plate • East Saint John Terminal Vapour Recovery, trench- ing & grating, Saint John, NB, Gulf Operators, 5.9 tons of misc. metals • NBCC Moncton Campus, camber customers beams, Moncton, NB, Titan Metal Group, 17.6 tons of struct. steel • NBCC Fredericton Campus, camber customers beams, Fredericton, NB, Titan Metal Group, 97.3 tons of struct. steel Maritime Docks Ltd supply’s Floating Docks • Manhole Steel Form, Saint John, NB Strescon, 1.3 tons of plate for Atlantic Pilot Authority, Port of Saint John • PCS Potash (old mill) - Replacement of Platform & York Steel provided the pile guides & misc metals painted black Stair, Penobsquis, NB, , 1.7 tons of struct. steel (10.9 tons of steel) to Maritime Docks Ltd of Pennfield, NB to • PCS Potash (new mill) - Pile Cap Plates, Penobsquis, complete the job at the Saint John Wharf at Pier II on the west side. NB, Irving Equipment, 4.8 tons of plate (above)
26 CONNECTIONS • Spring & Summer 2010 www.oscoconstructiongroup.com how we do it Group Safety News contributed by ROB FELTUS
Congratulations to AllStar Rebar for working 12 months without a lost time accident!!!
Congratulations to Borcherdt Concrete Products for working 12 months without a lost time accident!!!
Setting a Higher Safety Standard third-party auditing services. A couple of our operations were OSCO Group Joins ISNetworld involved with the now defunct Risk Management Services, The OSCO Construction Group has been working since based on the International Loss Control Institute format. We last October, towards getting several of its operations approved also have been active, for over ten years, with the Certificate through ISNetworld, for work with two “Owner Clients” – Irving of Recognition (COR) programs provided through NSCSA and Oil Refining and Potash Corporation of Saskatchewan. NBCSA. Currently we hold CORs for eleven of our business ISNetworld describes itself as the global resource for con- units. Participation in these programs has provided the benefit necting corporations with safe, reliable vendors from capital- of improving our safety management systems. intensive industries. ISN collects self-reported conformance in- The process through ISNetworld is very detailed and, formation from vendors, verifies its accuracy, and then reports considering that we are providing inputs for eight separate the results in an easy-to-follow format. This allows corpora- operations, has been quite a challenge, requiring changes and tions to select those resources that best meet internal and gov- additions to our practices and procedures. We are also now ernmental requirements, while providing vendors and suppliers tracking new statistics and performance indicators. This is not the opportunity to centralize their conformance information, to imply that we were behind the curve on these issues. Our while saving time and gaining presence in the marketplace. recent initiatives, involving Fleet, Environmental, and Quality Through its innovative data-systems, superior customer management systems essentially put us on a parallel course service, and global reach, ISN fosters safer work environments, with the standards required by ISNetworld. This process has stronger partnerships, and a healthier bottom-line. provided us with additional incentive to continue with our goal The OSCO Construction Group is not unfamiliar with of continual improvement.
www.oscoconstructiongroup.com CONNECTIONS • Spring & Summer 2010 27 CAREER SPOTLIGHT: ENGINEERING
contributed by BERNIE BLAKELY
An Engineer is a person in your neighborhood…
There’s a lot of thinking behind that stage of fabrication their project is at. sign Engineer; Bill Gates, Operations Mgr; Steel. The OSCO Construction Group em- Jeff Underhill, Assistant SJ Plant Mgr ploys several Professional Engineers; 14 of Steel Sector Engineers Front row (l-r): Abdul Maftah, Jr. Back row (l-r): Andrew MacKenzie, Fred. which are in the Steel Sector alone; and not Design Engineer; Jingnan Liu, Jr. Design Plant Mgr; Troy Hawkes, SJ Plant Mgr; all are designing gusset plate thicknesses or Engineer; Nihad Balihodzic, Design Engi- Daniel Aube, Steel Checker; Ben Smith, weld sizes for connections. While most are neer; Li Lan Pook, Contracts Mgr; Jill Lay- Design Engineering Mgr; Bernie Blakely, familiar with this important aspect of the ton, Project Mgr; Lori Li, Design Engineer Bus Development Mgr; Don Pellerin, Sr. fabrication process, several have taken their Design Engineer problem-solving, analytical minds to other Middle row (l-r): Harrison Wilson, Gen- departments. Our customers thus receive a eral Mgr (Canada); Melanie MacCormick, Missing: Rod Macintosh, General Mgr (US); well thought out solution, no matter what Jr. Design Engineer; Alex Gamble, Jr. De- Lisa Frazee, Engineering Drawings Mgr
UNB ENGINEERING TOUR contributed by VIVIAN CHIASSON recent accomplishments of FCC & Marque The OSCO Group hosted a tour for 34 before alternating locations in the afternoon. Construction with an impressive time-lapsed UNB Fredericton Civil Engineering students video from the Picadilly project. The students These this past February. Organized by the HR OSCO Head Office: were also presented with information on sessions began with a greeting from the Steel Recruiting Team, this event provided the other projects and Engineering career oppor- Sector’s General Manager, Harrison Wil- opportunity to introduce our Companies tunities with the Construction sector. son, followed by a presentation by Design and products to the students first-hand. Engineer, Nihad Balihodzic and Operations The Strescon sessions The students spent the day learning Strescon: Manager, Bill Gates. Following that, Bernie included tours of the Precast Plant and about the processes and operations at our Blakely, Business Development Manager, and Inspection Lab by Production Scheduler, Pe- steel and concrete plants, as well as about Bill Gates took the students on a tour of the ter Adams; Safety Coordinator, Jim Milton; future employment opportunities in the Con- steel plant. The group was then turned over and Inspection Manager, Doug Murphy. struction industry and with our Group. The to the Construction sector, where Project Following this, the students finished with a students were divided into two groups, with Managers, Abbey Duguay, Bill Woodhouse tour of the Pipe Plant, lead by Plant Superin- one spending the morning at OSCO Head and Luke Johnson, as well as Estima- tendent, Dave Kierstead, and Strescon Sales Office, while the other was taken to Strescon, tor, Jordan Thompson, showed off some Associate, Stewart Totten.
28 CONNECTIONS • Spring & Summer 2010 www.oscoconstructiongroup.com how we do it
“On behalf of Stantec’s entire Civil/ Structural Engineering group in Fredericton, I would like to thank you for the wonderful afternoon Stantec Tour we spent with your folks at your contributed by BERNIE BLAKELY office and fab shop. Everyone in Since it’s incorporation in 1955, our group was very happy to have Ocean Steel has fabricated most of the been part of the experience and large, complex heavy industrial proj- are grateful for the insights and ects in New Brunswick. Several of those knowledge gained. We deeply structures have been designed by the appreciated the time you and Engineers at Stantec (formerly Neill & others in your staff took to inform, Gunter) specifically in the areas of Power Generation, Lumber & Wood, and Pulp & explain, guide, and teach. Our Paper. group has grown stronger because As a result of these many suc- of the generous offering of your cessful projects, the staff from each time to us. Additionally, our con- company has gotten to know each other nection with Ocean Steel and its fairly well, with some relationships going people has also been strengthened. as far back as their University days. In an effort to continue this suc- This I am sure will serve both of cessful working relationship, Ocean our companies well in the future. Steel provided a tour of their main plant Again, thank you very much!! ” in Saint John for the current Structural Engineering Department of Stantec’s Gordon J.W. Boneschansker, Fredericton office. At noon, the students were brought together for M.Eng., P.Eng. a networking lunch with our Group’s resident UNB Team Leader - Civil/Structural Senior Detailer Brad MacPhee Engineering alumni, along with representatives from Engineering - Stantec Consulting showed how Ocean initially brings the each of the sectors. design stick-model to life with the 3D The students were very responsive and inter- modeling system SDS2/Design Data, ested to see the concepts they learn about being put where the Engineers were surprised at the level of detail into action. The tour was considered to be a great - right down to the individual washers at connections. success. The HR Department wishes to thank the Tour guides Harrison Wilson (General Manager), employees who represented our Group so well, and Bill Gates (Operations Manager), Troy Hawkes (Plant made this day informative and interesting for the stu- Manager) and Bernie Blakely (Business Development dents; this is exactly the kind of effort that is needed Manager) then gave the group a first-hand look at how to attract important new talent to the organization, that electronic information is used to fabricate the indi- which will position us for our future growth. vidual components in Ocean’s modern state-of-the-art facility.
www.oscoconstructiongroup.com CONNECTIONS • Spring & Summer 2010 29
West Point team’s bridge during load test how we do it 25 Year Club Dinner
OSCO Group Inducts its Largest Group Ever to Long-Service Club
contributed by Human Resources Department Bedford, which was David A. Hume. Ocean Steel General Manager, Harrison Wilson took the The annual OSCO Construction Group’s 25 Year Club Din- stage next to present awards to the Ocean Steel-Saint John ner was set at the elegant Delta Brunswick in Saint John on inductees, which were as follows: Bruce Beckett, Mike Lewis, November 13th, 2009. This was an extraordinary year for the Douglas Oliver, Carl Parlee, and Kenneth Parlee. Group, as we welcomed 34 new members into the 25 Year Club. Schurman’s 2008 inductees were then acknowledged and The evening began with a reception where guests a speech was given by General Manager, Bill Davis before each gathered to greet many long time friends and get reacquainted, of the inductees were brought on stage for a group photo, they followed by one of the largest group photos in 25 Year Club were as follows: Alfred J. Condon, John A Hume, Kenneth R. history. Before dinner began, George Paisley graciously blessed MacLean, Wayne Smith, Paul Biggar, William Davis, Edmund the meal as he has done in the past, followed by a moment of Gallant, David Murray, Lawson Murray, Charles Wedge, Keith silence for employees who had passed away. Guests were then Wedge, Ken O’Donnell, Steven Dyer, and Wayne Gaudet. treated to a wonderful dinner buffet put on by the Delta staff. Harrison Wilson then took the stage once again, to induct The President, Hans O. Klohn, then unveiled a new time-lapse the newest members of Ocean Steel-Fredericton into the 25 video production showcasing the record-setting 14 day con- Year Club and they were as follows: Linda Dixon, Randolph struction of a very large Service Shaft building on the Picadilly Pollick, Francis Levesque, Merlin Colford, W. Wayne Morgan, Project involving many Companies within our Group. The award Michael D. Eroh, John Sparks, Daniel Jordan, Robert Betts, presentations began soon afterwards. Stephen Handrahan, Arthur Wooden, Andrew Jordan, Mar- Strescon General Manager, Don Isnor took the stage next, ven Jordan, Robbie Roden, James F. MacFarlane, Fernard to present Strescon inductees their awards. The new mem- Duguay, Hollis Golden, and Brian Underwood. bers welcomed into the club from Strescon-Saint John were: The evening was put to a close with remarks from the Michael Atkinson, Michael Belding, Michel Roy, Lorenzo Sr. President and drawing for door prizes by Mr. John Irving, while Savoie, Bruce Gogan, Malcolm Belding, Anthony A. Watson, Connections magazines were handed out to each guest as they Norman D. Hazelwood, Gary Bogle, and Christine Boyd. left. Congratulations to all our 2009 25 Year Club Inductees! There was also one new member welcomed from Strescon-
30 CONNECTIONS • Spring & Summer 2010 www.oscoconstructiongroup.com how we do it
A Night Celebrating OSCO Group’s Stars... contributed by Robin Kilpatrick truly were stars within each of our four sectors (concrete, construction, group services, and steel). Service Pins will also 2010 kicked off a new decade so we thought it was time be given out during the event, to those who have achieved to hold our Employee Recognition Awards, namely the “OS- milestone years of service with our Group. We will also honor CORS”, at a new location befitting the stars of our industry our commitment to Safety by recognizing the Plants with the – OUR EMPLOYEES! Every year seemingly gets bigger and best safety records over the past year. Last, but not least, we better and this year is no exception. It is our opportunity to will recognize those employees who have furthered their pro- thank our employees for the hard work and dedication that fessional development through certifications and licensures. they show throughout the year. On a less serious note, our favorite game-show host, This year the red carpet will be rolled out at the new Steve Adams (OSCO Group Services), will then call up mem- Marco Polo Cruise Terminal on Saint John’s beautiful water- bers of the audience to compete for cash prizes in a series of front. The evening will begin with an amazing buffet style challenges from the newest, hottest game show on television, dinner. It will then be time to recognize those employees that “Minute to Win It”! Congratulations to This Year’s Nominees:
• Janie Dysart • Allister Mood CONCRETE: Best Actor/ • Shelley Rogers CORPORATE: Best Director • Gaetan Vaillancourt STEEL: Actress • Daryl Ross • Jody Corbin • Rebecca Patterson STEEL: • Terry Arseneau • Roxanne Walsh • Keri Tyner • Cathy Parker • Ron Estabrooks CONCRETE: CONSTRUCTION: Career • Margo Hibbard CORPORATE: • Brendan Clancy • Greg Gormley • Debbie Keyes • Ian Hudson Achievement • Xiangning (Simon) Li • Shonda Burgess • Terry Arseneau: Steel CORPORATE: • Monique Walsh • Peter Adams • Jordan Thompson • Brad MacPhee: • Kelly Adams • Jennifer Gregoire • Stewart Totten • Luke Johnson Steel • Rebecca Codling • Amy Shanks • Serge Boudreau CONCRETE: • Valerie LeBlanc: • Chris Carmichael CONSTRUCTION: • Christine Gilbert Corporate • Karen Gatien • Rick Williston Best New • Jeremiah MacLeod • Abbey Duguay: • Duanne Shanks Actor/Actress • Ron Rathje Construction CONSTRUCTION: STEEL: • Robin Young • Dan Mazerolle • Dwight Edgett • Josh Dugas www.oscoconstructiongroup.com CONNECTIONS • Spring & Summer 2010 31 who we are OSCO Group & Employees Donate Combined $9883.50 to Haiti Relief contributed by Vivian Chaisson he OSCO Construction Group responded Tto the recent Earthquake disaster in Haiti by offering an Employee Donation Match Pro- gram. Our generous employees in both Can- ada and the US, donated a total of $4883.50 through individual donations, bake sales and group Helping Hands collections. OSCO then matched the em- The OSCO Construction Group values its relationships with the ployees’ contributions communities they live and work in. In addition to the many smaller with a Corporate dona- charitable and sponsorship contributions they’ve made over the past tion of $5000.00 to the year, the following are groups who have received larger donations: Canadian Red Cross. Canadian Cancer Society - $675.00 We know that this Berry Fund Charitable Foundation - $10,000.00 donation will be used to Kennebecasis Lions Club - $1100.00 assist those left suffer- United Way - $5000.00 ing after this devastating Heart and Stroke Foundation of New Brunswick - $750.00 event and wish to thank Saint John Regional Hospital Neonatal Unit - $500.00 all employees who do- St. Joseph’s Hospital Foundation - $15,000.00 nated and supported the various fundraising efforts employees held in the company.
my Shanks works in the HR Department as a recruiter nothing to help those who may be Afor OSCO Construction Group and below is her fam- facing losing their home because ily. Amy’s sister, Erin Appleby, was diagnosed with breast they are too sick to work.” cancer at the age of 28 which she fought for 2 years. Amy Erin Appleby passed away at and her father, Ed, were watching Erin lie in her hospital bed the age of 30, but with our help, and worrying about how her bills where going to be paid when the continued dedication of Amy they made the decision that a fund needed to be started to and her family, Erin’s legacy will help those that are sick with paying common household live on through the gift of helping bills. “There are foundations for wigs, prosthetic breasts but others. All of the proceeds given contributed by Robin Kilpatrick to this Fund are distributed by the Atlantic Health Sciences Centre’s social workers, who see to it the bills are paid. Amy and her family raise money throughout the year by organizing and taking part in various fundraisers. There are many ways in which you can help be a part of this much needed Fund; such as volunteering (if interested, please e-mail Sydney Peacock at [email protected]); by giving a monetary donation (this can be done easily at www.thegive. ca, just click on the Erin Appleby Fund, receive a receipt via mail); and something as simple as spreading the word (join the Erin Appleby Fund Facebook page). On behalf of Amy and the Appleby Family we thank you in advance for your support.
32 CONNECTIONS • Spring & Summer 2010 www.oscoconstructiongroup.com who we are Throwing a Lifeline OSCO Shop Employee Dan Vienneau Recognized for Saving Co-Worker’s Life
eyewitness accounts, Harold at this point started to contributed by Dan Farren turn purple (he had already passed blue). Dan Vien- neau noticed this going on from the other side of the L-R: Hans Klohn Sr., Dan Farren and Harrison Wilson presenting a plaque to Dan Vienneau. lunch room and rushed over to help. He gave Harold one good abdominal thrust and dislodged the food n September 21, 2009, in Ocean Steel’s Saint John, NB lunch room, from Harold’s throat. Othe guys were playing cards during their lunch break, when some- Harold was still emotional the following day in one told a joke and everyone started to laugh. Harold Cavanaugh, who describing the events in the lunch room. He believes had just taken a bite of his sandwich before he started to laugh, began without a doubt that he would have died in that lunch choking. At first nobody noticed, thinking he was just laughing along room if it had not been for Danny. with the rest of the group. When a fellow employee asked Harold if he On March 18, 2010, Dan Vienneau was presented was choking, Harold nodded his head yes, and the employee immedi- with a plaque from the Red Cross to honour this self- ately attempted to perform abdominal thrusts without success. From less act.
our other locations as well: Ocean Steel given by Credit Manager, Steve Adams. in Fredericton; Borcherdt Concrete; and This showed the students the process of Strescon-Bedford. The students at these ensuring our customers accounts are kept Take Our locations job-shadowed employees for up to date and the importance and com- the day, learning the different day-to-day mitment the Group has to maintaining tasks involved in our operations. great customer relations. The Saint John students spent half the The students were then given tours Kids To day in presentations and half the day job of various departments to learn how each shadowing. This year we were fortunate one works. Ian Hudson discussed Ac- to have even more staff volunteers for counting Department processes; Jason presentations, which really made the day Comeau spoke on behalf of the Informa- Work Day worthwhile for the students. Dan Farren tion Technology Department; Ann Eagles (Ocean Steel) provided them with an inter- showed off some graphic programs contributed by VIVIAN CHAISSON esting safety presentation, which high- used in the Steel Detailing Department; he OSCO Construction Group partici- lighted our Group’s commitment to safety. and Deb Flewelling explained the CNC Tpated in the National Take Our Kids to Bernie Blakely (Ocean Steel) provided a Programming side of production to the Work Day program once again this year. tour of our Saint John Steel Plant, which students. The event was held for students in Grade the students always report to be the great- The day went very well and was 9 on November 4th, 2009. est part to the day. Seeing the production greatly enjoyed by the students. We ap- To observe this special event, OSCO hands-on can be fascinating for those preciate all the help from the employees Head Office and Strescon-Saint John who don’t do it every day and Bernie al- who made the day so memorable and played host to 13 students for a day of ways provides a lively interactive tour that informative for the participants. learning about the steel, concrete and is enjoyed by all. Our Human Resources We wish all the students who par- construction industries, as well as about Coordinator provided the students with a ticipated the best of luck in their future the career opportunities available. In ad- presentation about our Group of Compa- chosen careers and hope that we were dition to the students who participated in nies and hosted a lunch for the students. able to provide them some guidance in Saint John, students registered at three of New this year, was a credit presentation, this regard. www.oscoconstructiongroup.com CONNECTIONS • Spring & Summer 2010 33 who we are
The annual OSCO When the curling was over and the points were being Construction Group Curl- tallied, pizza was being enjoyed by all. Was it the confidence ing Bonspiel, held this year from the hard hats, luck, or just pure skill that made the decked Curling on March 12th, was once out team from Ocean Steel this year’s winners? Not sure, but again a huge success. The this savvy curling team rose to the top of the points scale and Thistle St. Andrews Curling walked out with full bragging rights. A much deserved con- Club was filled with enthu- gratulations to the four of them! Great times were had by all Bonspiel siastic curlers ranging from and everyone beginner to expert. Donnie walked away with The winning team (l-r): Peter Dougay, Lori Li, contributed by Robin Kilpatrick Ritchie started the night a prize. Roxanne Walsh, & Ron Estabrooks off with a brief lesson for Much thanks beginners. It was also decided this year that “sweeping” would to Donnie Ritchie be kept strictly optional. Slipping on the ice was not a fear for a (Ocean Steel) for team of four from Ocean Steel, Lori Li, Peter Dougay, Ron Es- taking the time to tabrooks and Roxanne Walsh. They came prepared, sporting organize this event pink hard hats decorated with many lovely sparkling stickers. again this year. It Many laughs were shared and memories made amongst the is greatly appreci- 64 curlers during the eight ends of curling that evening. ated.
COMING EVENTS FCC Chiefs Take Championship Aug 7:...... Company Picnic contributed by Vanessa Klohn This year’s division 1 winners Sept 18:....Group Golf Tournament were the FCC Chiefs, who defeated Nov 3:...... Take Our Kids to Work Day The Irving Hockey League is a last year’s champions Irving Equip- Nov 5:...... 25 Year Club Dinner local recreational league that runs ment, 2 games to 1. Nov 13: ....OCAL Holiday Party from October through March on Nov 29:....Bedford Holiday Lunch Sunday afternoons at the Lord Bea- FCC Roster: Pat Bagley, Ben Kilpatrick, Dave Nov 30-Dec 9: Saint John Holiday Lunches verbrook Rink (LBR) in Saint John, Harrison, Clint Graham, Colby Dec 10:.....OSCO-Fred Holiday Lunch New Brunswick. The regular season McDermott, Gary Chamberlain, Dec 14:...... OSCO-Conklin Holiday Lunch runs 14 weeks (all teams play against Jason Johnson, Steve Adams, each other twice). Scott Graham, Ernie Roy ST The league consists of 8 teams: GU Sat AU Fri PTEMBERSat Wed Thurs SE Thurs Fri FCC; Ocean Steel; Strescon; Gulf Tues Tues Wed Ocean Steel Roster: Sun Mon 7 Sun Mon 4 5 6 2 3 4 Operators; Irving Oil; Irving Refin- Randy Gallant, Peter Dougay, 2 3 1 ery; Jacob’s; and Irving Equipment. 1 13 14 Vince Davis, Mike Jones, 11 12 9 10 11 The general rule is that 50% of the 8 9 10 5 6 7 8 Ryan Starkey, Adam Fraser, Len 20 21 18 team’s players must be employed 17 18 19 15 16 17 Andrews, Nick Hatt, Jason Brown, 15 NOVEMBER16 12 13 14 from the Irving affiliate sponsoring Sun 28 Fred Oulette, Pat Oulette, Mon Tues 26 27 25 24 25Wed Thurs DECEMBER22 23 24 the team. 22 23 Fri Sat19 20 21 Germain Martin 1 2 Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Upon completion of the regular 31 3 4 5 6 28 29 30 29 30 26 27 1 2 3 4 season, the league is separated into Strescon Roster: 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 two (2) divisions, with the top four Eric Gautier, Peter Adams, Chris 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 14 15 16 going into division 1, and the bottom Greer, Brendan Clancy, Derek 17 18 19 20 21 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 four to division 2. An elimination Millar, Wade Osmon, Gerald He- 22 23 24 25 26 27 playoff round decides which teams bert, Jason Boyne, Frank Godsoe, 28 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 29 30 move on to a best of three round to Gavin Bungay, Tom Hinam, Jamie 26 27 28 29 30 31 decide the years league champions. Brown, Matt Patterson
34 CONNECTIONS • Spring & Summer 2010 www.oscoconstructiongroup.com who we are FRESH FACES congratulations! OCEAN STEEL - SAINT JOHN Chris Fulton...... Contracts Administrator Family Additions: Services) and husband, Colin, Brenda Lariviere...... Document Runner welcomed Kyle Colin Scott on Jamie Bennett (York) and February 11th. OCEAN STEEL - FREDERICTON Sarina Merrett welcomed son Jason Brown (OSCO Group Heather Wilson (Promotion).... Purchasing Specialist/Sales Madison James Bennett on March 19th. Services) and wife Laura (Is- nor) welcomed Allison in De- STRESCON - SAINT JOHN Troy Hawkes (OSCO-SJ) and cember, 2009. Allison’s arrival Cara Dawn Miller ...... Design Engineer his wife Michelle welcomed also made Don Isnor (General Andrew Gabriel ...... QC Inspector 10 lb, 3 oz. son, Thomas Ryan Manager of Strescon) a proud Sheri Fanjoy ...... QC Inspector on April 14th first-time grandfather! Lois Coholan (Transfer) ...... Exec. Admin. Assistant Aaron Jewett (York) and Adam Brochu (FCC Electrical) Natalie Brewer welcomed OSCO GROUP SERVICES and wife Julie welcomed baby daughter, Adyson Christina girl, Zoe on April 19th. Ashley Dooks ...... Recruiting Assistant Jewett, on Jan 10th. Pam Ogden ...... Payroll and Benefits Analyst Andrew Biggs (FCC Electrical) Darrin Brundage (Strescon Robin Kilpatrick ...... Human Resources Coordinator and wife Jill welcomed Lau- Bedford) and Ashley Murray Scott Patterson ...... Accounts Receivable Specialist ren, 6lbs 2oz, on March 20th. welcomed 7lbs 10 oz, Lilly Brynn Jennifer LeBlanc ...... Payroll and Benefits Analyst Brundage on Oct.8, 2009. Len Andrews (OSCO-SJ) and Amanda Legere ...... Accounting Specialist his wife Kalie welcomed 2nd Josh Fowler (Allstar Rebar) child, Sebastian at 10lbs 1oz STRESCON-BEDFORD and Rachel Weare welcomed on April 24th. John Doyle ...... QC Inspector 7lbs 5oz., William Tyler Fowler on March 29th. FCC CONSTRUCTION Applause: Gerry Higgins became a Congratulations to the follow- Karen MacVicar ...... Scheduler/Planner Grandfather for the first time ing Ocean Steel employees on March 8th, with Elizabeth who received their NACE Louise (Ellie), born to Daughter Coating Inspector - Level Amanda and Shayne Graham 1 certifications: Jay Guiles Sajjadul Haque (Strescon) (Conklin); Lorne Hanson and Laboni Haque (Strescon) (Fred); Joe Odo (Fred); Dave welcomed baby girl, Aribah Lang (SJ); Tim Latter (SJ) Afreen Haque on March 7th. Jeff Underhill (SJ); Kristy Kerri Scott (OSCO Group Waalderbos (Saint John) Strescon Ski Night contributed by Robin Kilpatrick
On Saturday, March 13th, Strescon employees, along with OSCO Group Services employees who frequently work on Strescon’s behalf (Accounting, Contracts, IT, HR, & Inventory Systems) were invited to Poley Mountain in Sussex, NB for an evening of winter fun. Skiers and snow- boarders hit the hill with much excitement and enthusiasm! This event was held to foster growth as a team, and L-R: Tyson Martin, Mike Redmond, Sheri Fanjoy, Cory Vail, Andrew Gabriel and Andrew bond with individuals who deal with each other on a daily O’Donnell. Missing: Matt Skerry basis, but rarely get to connect one-on-one. Once the hills were all ripped up, everyone gathered at the lodge for New Certifications for Inspectors a fun snowball competition, which was won by the team Congratulations to the following Strescon-Saint John Quality Inspectors of Brendan Clancy, Nick Hatt, Vivian Chaisson, and who received new certifications this past March: ACI Level One: Sheri Duanne Shanks. Great job guys! Everyone was treated to Fanjoy; Cory Vail; Andrew Gabriel; Andrew O’Donnell; Mike Red- a marvelous meal, a gift card, and many, many laughs! mond; Matt Skerry • PCI Level One: Tyson Martin
www.oscoconstructiongroup.com CONNECTIONS • Spring & Summer 2010 35 Our Locations STRUCTURAL STEEL: 131 Duke St., Bedford, NS • CA ANNAPOLIS VALLEY READY-MIX - Plant Phone: (902) 494-7400 20 Park Drive, Windsor, NS • CA OCEAN STEEL Member Since • 1978 Phone: (902) 798-2291 Corporate office & SJ plant Member Since • 2008 400 Chesley Drive, Saint John, NB • CA STRESCON LIMITED Phone: (506) 632-2600 New England Sales Office TRISTAR CONCRETE - plant Member Since • 1955 25 Burlington Mall Road, 23557 #7 Hwy Burlington, MA • USA Sheet Harbour, NS • CA OCEAN STEEL - New England Sales Office Phone: (781) 221-2153 Phone: (902) 885-2358 25 Burlington Mall Road, Member Since • 1991 Member Since • 2008 Burlington, MA • USA Phone: (781) 221-2152 BORCHERDT CONCRETE PRODUCTS SACKVILLE CONCRETE Member Since • 1991 Office & plant Nova Scotia Office & plant RR#4, Hardscratch Road 17 Estate Drive, Lower Sackville, NS • CA YORK STEEL - Plant & service center Yarmouth, NS • CA Phone: (902) 864-3230 550 Wilsey Road, Fredericton, NB • CA Phone: (902) 742-7811 Member Since • 2008 Phone: (506) 444-7989 Member Since • 2008 Member Since • 1995 BEDFORD READY-MIX - plant READY-MIX (OSCO Concrete): 414 Bluewater Rd., Bedford, NS • CA OCEAN STEEL CORPORATION Phone: (902) 835-0882 Office & plant STRESCON READY-MIX Member Since • 2008 53 Shaw Road, Conklin, NY • USA Saint John plant Phone: (607) 584-7500 101 Ashburn Rd., Saint John, NB • CA OSCO AGGREGATES Member Since • 2004 Phone: (506) 633-8877 M.S.D. Enterprises Member Since • 1963 Little Dyke Rd, Glenholme, NS • CA REBAR: Phone: (902) 662-3722 STRESCON READY-MIX Member Since • 2008 Moncton plant OSCO REBAR SERVICES 1212 Berry Mills Rd, Moncton, NB • CA Saint John plant GC CARTAGE Phone: (506) 858-7110 400 Chesley Drive, Saint John, NB • CA 400 Chesley Drive, Saint John, NB • CA Member Since • 2004 Phone: (506) 632-2600 Phone: (506) 632-2600 Member Since • 2004 Member Since • 1955 SCHURMAN CONCRETE Summerside office & plant ALLSTAR REBAR NOVA SCOTIA CONSTRUCTION: 240 MacEwen Rd, Summerside, PE • CA Office & plant Phone: (902) 888-4331 48 Duke Street, Bedford, NS • CA FCC CONSTRUCTION - office Member Since • 2004 Phone: (902) 832-0917 400 Chesley Drive, Saint John, NB • CA Member Since • 2008 Phone: (506) 632-7800 SCHURMAN CONCRETE Member Since • 1960 Charlottetown office & plant PRECAST: 412 Mount Edward Road MARQUE CONSTRUCTION - office Charlottetown, PE • CA STRESCON LIMITED 400 Chesley Drive, Saint John, NB • CA Phone: (902) 628-0127 Corporate Office & SJ plant Phone: (506) 634-1144 Member Since • 2004 101 Ashburn Rd., Saint John, NB • CA Member Since • 1966 Phone: (506) 633-8877 GLENHOLME READY-MIX - plant KENNEBEC CONSTRUCTION - office Member Since • 1963 RR #1 • Debert, NS • CA 400 Chesley Drive, Saint John, NB • CA Phone: (902) 662-3722 STRESCON LIMITED Phone: (506) 632-7800 Member Since • 2008 Bedford office & plant Member Since • 1994