DCA/AGA Workshop Grows in Attendance, Expands Scope

DCA

ISSUE 03 MAY/JUNE 2015 DCA NEWS

DCA/AGA Workshop grows in attendance, expands scope

By Eben Wyman, Wyman Associates

Richardson, Texas – More than 130 attendees – including representatives of utility companies, contractors, equipment manufacturers and labor unions – gathered in Chicago on April 28-29 for the second annual gas distribution construction industry workshop sponsored by the Distribu- tion Contractors Association (DCA) and the American Gas Association (AGA). The workshop, which is focused on enhancing communication and cooperation between gas distribution utilities and the contractors who work for them, included presentations and panel discussions by industry experts on workforce capacity challenges, horizontal directional drilling operations, operator qualification and efforts to enhance “portability” of contractors’ OQ programs, cross bore mitigation and other issues of interest to the gas distribution construction industry.

Continuum encourages flexibility in the industry IN THIS ISSUE: Mark Bridgers of Continuum Advisory Group kicked off the workshop by describing the challenges the gas distribution industry will face over the next decade in market volatility and the related DCA/AGA Workshop...... 1-6 issues of financing, leadership, and available workforce. Bridgers encouraged gas utilities and contractors to embrace flexibility, advising both that remaining “rigid and backward-looking Safety Congress...... 7 to history as the only guide will suffer, while nimble firms that look forward in adapting to change Mid Year Meeting...... 8 and innovating will thrive.” Member news...... 9-11 Industry leaders must recognize drivers in the gathering, pipeline and distribution markets and the economic and “derived” demand behind them, said Bridgers. Drivers include replace- Safety news ...... 12 ment funding, federal integrity requirements, falling oil prices, the role of the housing market, Calendar...... 12 pipeline capacity challenges, impacts of hydraulic fracturing on the distribution market, and increased legislative activity aimed at accelerating distribution replacement programs. These drivers are leading several utilities to implement aggressive replacement programs and spend significant amounts of money to do so. Bridgers provided workshop attendees with an overview of who is doing the work and the states where most replacement projects are occurring.

(continued on page 2) opportunities for new workers to break the ice and get to spectors and importance of their knowledge of operat- know other staff and company personnel. ing procedures and all related installation procedures. He Panelists agreed that getting the right people on board described a list of covered tasks and expressed concerns is only half the battle. Keeping quality personnel can be with contractor personnel performing the work. These tasks equally challenging. Many seasoned companies offer em- included evaluating the qualification of those involved in ployee development programs that encourage workers to horizontal directional drilling (HDD) operations, ensuring the advance their careers within the organization as well as the appropriate depth of cover for gas mains and service lines, industry, and help them adapt to changes in their profes- providing tracer wire or other means of locating non-metal- sion. lic pipe, following welding procedures and operations and For example, many unions offer programs to prepare lo- maintenance written procedures, backfilling in such a way cal members for volatile markets, economic downturns and that prevents damage to the pipe or preventative coating, related impacts on jobs across several construction sectors. and ensuring HDD is conducted consistent with govern- Proactive measures like this provide incentive for workers mental regulations. to stay with their organization. Flexibility in work hours and This part of the discussion sparked a bit of controversy. (continued from page 1) scheduling can also go a long way in strengthening em- When a contractor in the audience took issue with the as- ployee loyalty and retention. sertion that the “in-house” workforce is better equipped to He also observed that the growth in spending on oil and proach, describing a family-like environment and demon- The problem of “poaching” employees elicited a variety address these issues, he was assured that “these problems gas pipeline construction ($31 billion in 2008 to $45 billion in strating that pipeline construction is a solid and promising of opinions. Contractors sometimes lure workers from their are on both sides” (in-house and contractor personnel). The 2014) has stretched resources to the point where continued long-term career choice, despite the temporary nature of competitors, and some utilities have been accused of hir- exchange highlighted the important point that oversight of expansion is becoming problematic for both utilities and construction projects. Additionally, while hard work and ing personnel from their contractors after they are trained all workers performing OQ covered tasks is imperative. the contractors who serve them. Add to this the forecast long hours come with construction work, limited travel re- and “OQ compliant,” at the expense of the contractor. Contractors on the panel pointed out that pipeline in- that spending is expected to increase to $65 billion in 2020 quirements offer employees quality work that is both profit- Although some panelists described worker poaching as spectors sometimes lack first-hand knowledge of the areas and to $80 billion in 2028, and it is clear that the industry able and family-friendly. “part of the cost of doing business,” most agreed that the they are inspecting, which can lead to calls for third-party must prepare to meet skyrocketing demand. Working in the industry also enhances the relationship practice doesn’t work for anybody. In fact, poaching for inspection. This inevitably increases costs that are passed between local communities and the companies that exist the most part only leads to unnecessary bad blood in the on to the consumer. All of this underscores the need for ex- Workforce challenges in gas distribution and operate in them. While recruiting efforts focus on high industry and opens the door to possible recriminations. pertise, coordination, and cooperation in the OQ process Following Bridgers’ presentation, a wide range of stake- schools, colleges, and trade schools, education about the After a robust question-and-answer period, DCA was from start to finish. holders in the gas distribution construction industry partici- pipeline and construction industries also includes engag- pleased to form a working group of utility representatives, pated in a panel discussion on how to recruit the best job ing elementary schools, proving it’s never too early to start contractors, manufacturers and labor unions. This new Regional efforts to enhance “portability” of OQ programs candidates in an industry facing a growing gap between grooming tomorrow’s energy and construction workforce. group will continue to examine the challenges of creating The challenges of contractor compliance with different production demand and the availability of skilled labor. Most panelists said they give special consideration to mil- the best possible “21st-Century Energy Workforce” – a top- OQ programs maintained by their utility customers was a Efforts by pipeline operators, construction contractors, itary veterans and others returning from service overseas. ic of increasing interest on Capitol Hill. The group plans to main reason to initiate joint DCA/AGA workshops in the first equipment manufacturers, and labor unions to approach “Helmets to Hard Hats” and similar recruiting programs offer meet via conference call in the coming months to discuss place. The conversation over OQ portability continued this potential employees from local colleges and trade schools many vets with needed skill sets a range of opportunities in how to work cooperatively to ensure all industry sectors re- year and included feedback from stakeholders nationwide. are supported by job fairs, revamped websites, and use the energy and construction industries. cruit and retain the best workforce possible. A panel of gas utility and contractor representatives of social media such as Facebook and YouTube. From all Operators and contractors also work closely with labor from the Northeast, Southern, Midwest and Western regions industry sectors, the message was the same: the pipeline organizations where union apprenticeships can lead to Current OQ programs and related inspections of the U.S. shared how stakeholders are working together to industry continues to grow and the sky’s the limit for those high-wage jobs that come with quality healthcare and Operator qualification (OQ) and the many surrounding is- facilitate the process of contractors putting qualified peo- who choose to work in it. pension benefits. sues regarding compliance with varying OQ requirements ple on the job without heading back to the OQ drawing Despite this positive message, the gas distribution pipe- Outreach to educational institutions at all age levels is often spark lively discussion. The workshop’s first OQ panel board when working for different operators. There was gen- line industry faces important workforce challenges, in par- a must. Some equipment manufacturers even donate ex- included organizations that develop and support OQ pro- eral consensus that, for the most part, OQ compliance is an ticular the significant gap between the young and inexpe- pensive equipment to schools that offer training and edu- grams and documentation as well as representatives from “80/20” ratio, meaning that methods to qualify 80 percent rienced and a growing number of those who make up the cation on how to operate it. Additionally, incentives such pipeline operators and distribution contractors. of covered tasks are basically portable from operator to “graying workforce.” The age disparity can be formidable, as referral bonuses for workers who bring in new hires can After recapping the history of the OQ rule and its general operator. The rub is in complying with the range of OQ re- with one panelist describing 50 percent of his company’s be a very effective recruitment tool. However, this is usual- requirements, panelists agreed that operator OQ plans can quirements to qualify workers for the remaining 20 percent workforce as being over the age of 40, while another indi- ly most effective in recruiting younger workers, while senior be vastly different, and therefore the importance of docu- of tasks, which normally include tasks related to fusions, tie- cated that 20 percent of his company’s employees have managers are normally promoted from within the existing mentation cannot be overstated. In fact, in many pipeline ins, and dealing with liquids. less than five years’ experience. Contractors and utilities workforce. incidents, the personnel in question may well have done In the Northeast, panelists maintained that the underly- described similar hurdles in attracting the best and bright- Recruiting the best candidates includes an elaborate the job correctly but failure to maintain current qualification ing training which leads to OQ testing is the primary area of est, some of whom don’t enter the industry until they are in ‘on-boarding’ process to ensure that workers put on the job records opens the door to criticism and possible enforce- focus. The Northeast Gas Association (NGA) has created their late 20s. are fully prepared to be there. This includes the applica- ment action. an OQ Program that is accepted by the majority of the Because pipeline operators are increasingly outsourcing tion process, background checks, drug and alcohol test- An operator on the panel stressed three standards that member organizations. The covered tasks and related OQ their construction programs, contractors face an especially ing, physical tests, general-knowledge and field testing. All must be met: compliance with 49 CFR Part 192 of the pipe- testing is developed and administered by the NGA. An on- challenging capacity issue. Construction employers have relevant operator qualification requirements also must be line safety regulations, compliance with the operator’s con- line vendor provides the testing and qualification tracking. to be “aggressive but selective” in recruiting. While huge complied with, often requiring considerable time and finan- struction standards, and compliance with the manufactur- These areas are portable. Prior to this OQ testing, workers opportunities exist, labor-intensive construction work is not cial resources. er’s installation procedures. receive “hands on” and classroom training. The level of this for everybody. In addition to job preparation, social events such as soft- The operator emphasized the critical role of OQ in- training varies from company to company. The NGA and Many construction employers recruit using a cultural ap- ball games and barbecues offer “low cost” on-boarding (continued on page 4)

2 www.dcaweb.orgwww.dcaweb.org May/June 2015 3 based group of government and industry stakeholders emphasized the importance of safety being a primary part working to minimize the risk of injury, property damage and of their corporate culture. Close and careful observation of loss of life from utility cross bores through training, guidelines HDD workers by experienced personnel for extended time and other resources. periods is a must before they are trusted to perform HDD on Defining a cross bore as the “unintended installation their own. Thorough knowledge of all equipment, technol- of a utility line by trenchless construction methods which ogy and work environment issues such as varying soil con- damages an existing utility,” Robertson explained different ditions is imperative. types or “classes” of cross bore intersections and provided Panelists also emphasized that while classroom and a chronology of real-life examples that demonstrate the computer training can be effective, “concepts must be potentially catastrophic results from cross bore situations. implemented.” There is no substitute for field training un- There have been a variety of efforts and initiatives imple- der real-life circumstances. In fact, contractors on the HDD mented by state governments as well as industry including panel indicated that their pre-qualification process includ- requirements to locate sewer facilities, enhanced inspec- ed training on all tools used in trenchless operations. tions of all intersections when engaged in HDD, and im- Close cooperation is critical, including pre-planning with (continued from page 3) plementation of “legacy” cross bore verification programs contractors, utilities and other key stakeholders. Inviting lo- employed by many gas utilities across the country. Pub- cal officials to participate in planning was encouraged, in- its members are looking to establish a minimum baseline for contractor. The operator does all the training and docu- lic awareness efforts such as “call before you clear” and cluding municipal authorities that operate sewer systems, this training. Once this benchmark is established, portability mentation so portability is a non-issue. “plumbers beware” are also effective in educating on the where unmarked sewer laterals can be the main cause of as it relates to underlying OQ training will have a foothold. While the Western region is limited in the number of dangers of cross bores. dangerous cross bores occurring in trenchless excavations. The one portability gap that will be tough to close in- players involved in distribution construction, improving the As many as three cross bores per mile have been found The co-chair of DCA’s HDD Committee highlighted the volves individual owners’ “challenge tests” related to their OQ process remains an issue, and stakeholders are meet- on large projects, some in the vicinity of hospitals and concepts included in a position paper recently developed internal Standard Operating Practices (SOPs). Until all the ing the challenge. In fact, DCA is helping to sponsor a Gas schools. Calling the issue “one that keeps me up at night,” by DCA and disseminated to industry groups as well as fed- pipeline operators can agree on SOPs, this gap will be dif- Utility and Contractor Forum hosted by the Western Energy Robertson said that cross bores are generally addressed in eral, state and local government entities. The position pa- ficult to close. For now, it is very important that procedural Institute in Portland, Oregon in early June 2015. The agen- Distribution Integrity Management Program (DIMP) require- per describes practices to be performed and responsibili- differences are clearly communicated to the contractor da includes presentations and breakout groups to evaluate ments and industry position papers, technical standards ties to be met by both contractors and the utilities they work community. current work practices, tracking, reporting and documen- and other publications, as well as in emerging technologies. for in order to collectively reduce and mitigate cross bores. Representatives from the Midwest used an analogy of a tation, as well as ways to better align training and qualifica- Still, challenges remain both in industry and government. The paper also suggests legislative and regulatory action driver’s license, saying that once drivers get one “they can tion efforts. State exemptions from the one-call process, gaps in data needed by state governments to reduce the common drive anywhere. That’s where we need to go.” The Midwest Panelists were asked if and how they worked with state collection and dissemination, and the costs to prevent and problems associated with unmarked sewer laterals, as well Gas Association, which served on the original Negotiated regulators, recognizing that differing OQ programs spawn mitigate cross bore situations continue to hamper progress. as language to be considered by Congress in this year’s Rulemaking Committee that developed the OQ regulation differing interpretations from state inspectors about what is Robertson described CBSA’s new initiative to develop a pipeline safety reauthorization. for DOT in the 1990s, points out that “portability was an issue considered “qualified.” Stakeholders working cooperatively “Leading Practices” document based on ANSI guidelines A utility representative on the panel reiterated the prob- early on,” and that increased scrutiny in the media and by in the Northeast reach out to a range of regulators, includ- and information collected from more than 280 organiza- lems of unmarked sewer service laterals and provided a regulators for a variety of reasons demonstrates the need ing those outside the Northeast region. Folks working in the tions. CSBA committees are currently working on assem- personal anecdote regarding a cross bore situation he ex- for more consistency in programs to ensure a qualified Midwest indicated that their OQ Consortium includes state bling information on stakeholder awareness, construction perienced while engaged in HDD, which resulted in tempo- pipeline workforce. regulators and regularly communicates with state and fed- practices, legacy cross bores, risk analysis, legal issues, and rary but significant changes in operations. Soon after, the A contractor with extensive operations in the South said eral inspectors. A federal agency representative in the au- data management. Robertson invited all interested parties company implemented camera inspection policies related that many of his utility customers merge OQ elements, dience encouraged cooperation with state inspectors and to participate in the CSBA initiative and encouraged all to to HDD operations. which enhances portability. He also suggested that indus- other officials to facilitate the OQ process. visit http://crossboresafety.org/Leading%20Practices.htm One operator in the audience encouraged fellow gas try consider pushing for the incorporation of ASME’s B31Q A common theme in this discussion was the need for for more information. utilities to perform risk assessments that include job-specif- standard into the federal pipeline safety regulations. B31Q more consistency in the OQ process in the regions and ic considerations (i.e. possible cross bore situations), and to offers all key elements and may be as close to a nation- even, to a certain extent, across the board (nationally). The HDD training, education and practices get to know and partner with the HDD contractors they use. al OQ model as possible, although it was pointed out that idea of establishing statewide OQ programs was met with Following last year’s discussion of underlying reasons be- The operator also encouraged contractors to invite utility there are OQ issues not included in B31Q that need to be at least lukewarm enthusiasm and most agreed that B31Q hind first- and second-party damages to gas distribution personnel to observe and participate in an HDD project. addressed. is a good starting point in establishing a covered task list. facilities and unwarranted insinuations that HDD was the This collaborative approach will enhance cooperation on In Florida, a nine-year effort to establish a statewide All stakeholders on the panel were asked to continue the primary cause, several stakeholders formed a panel to set both sides while providing an overall safer work environ- OQ plan is nearing completion. The initiative included 16 conversation in the coming months and use growing mo- the record straight. Contractors, equipment manufacturers ment. companies, the Florida Public Service Commission, and the mentum in future cooperative efforts. and gas utilities provided a comprehensive overview of the The panel was asked how decisions are made regarding Florida Natural Gas Association. The plan mirrors the B31Q training, education and preparation HDD operators under- practical use of HDD versus when it was “too expensive.” standard and covered task list. Under the Florida program, Cross bore safety and mitigation go before being put on the job. Stakeholders agreed that trenchless excavation is almost performance evaluations are done in-house, allowing con- The persistent threat of cross bores continues to be a main Although “HDD is nothing new,” contractors on the panel always considered in today’s gas distribution market due tractors to bring their OQ programs from customer to cus- safety concern of all stakeholders in the distribution con- highlighted the “dire need for safe and reliable HDD players to its positive impacts on safety, the environment, and over- tomer. struction industry. Annmarie Robertson, Senior Program and practices.” Even though contractors once battled the all quality of life because of the non-intrusive nature of the The OQ dynamic in the West is different, in large part be- Manager at the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety “roughneck mentality,” today’s quality HDD operators put practice. cause of the limited number of gas distribution operators as Administration (PHSMA), provided a thorough and effective safety first and then make sure they do the job right. Con- In the end, all panelists agreed that when roles and re- well as the contractors doing the bulk of the construction update on industry and government efforts to reduce cross tractors said safety starts during the bidding process and sponsibilities are met, HDD and other trenchless excavation work. A gas utility representative for the only operator in the bores. Robertson is also a member of the Steering Commit- Pacific Northwest shared that his company only uses one tee of the Cross Bore Safety Association (CSBA), a broad- (continued on page 6)

42 www.dcaweb.orgwww.dcaweb.org May/June 2015 5 (continued from page 5) is a safe, environmentally friendly end economically sound spected by others working for the contractors and/or by method of gas distribution construction, and one that is the gas utility. Both contractors and utilities were encour- quickly becoming standard industry practice. aged to communicate on the inspection rule and any changes or considerations that should be discussed before New regulation on inspection for new construction the compliance date. A recent PHMSA final rule entitled “Miscellaneous Chang- Because of the confusion related to the new inspec- es to the Pipeline Safety Regulations” and issued in March tion rule and its implementation, AGA requested PHMSA includes language that limits personnel involved with main to delay the implementation date from October 1, 2015 to or transmission pipeline construction from post-construction January 1, 2016. inspections required under 49 CFR 192.305 on any construction task they performed. The inspection now has to See you next year! be performed by operator employees or other contractor The 2nd Annual DCA/AGA Workshop proved to be an employees who were not involved with the particular ac- effective forum where gas utilities and their contractors APRIL 6-8, 2015 THE WESTIN HOTEL SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA tivity being inspected. The rule change stems from a 2010 could openly discuss important issues facing the gas distri- petition by the National Association of Pipeline Safety Rep- bution industry. Feedback from attendees indicated a de- resentatives (NAPSR) and has a compliance date of Octo- sire to continue these joint workshops, in large part because ber 1, 2015. of the tremendous amount of work on the horizon. Energy Two gas utility representatives described the general re- development and transportation will continue to drive the quirements of their respective inspection programs, focus- U.S. economy, and gas distribution industry leaders must ing on the individuals doing the inspection. One operator make sure we have enough of the right people to meet the said it takes 10 years of work experience before an individu- need. Plan on joining us next year for the 3rd Annual DCA/ al is even considered qualified to serve as an inspector, and AGA Workshop, being held April 4-6, in Chicago, Illinois. If because of that, they have a “handle on in-house crews.” you have questions about the workshop or any other DCA/ Both operators said their inspectors are “OQ qualified.” AGA initiatives, please contact DCA at 972-680-0261 or Contractors in the audience said that, for the most part, www.dcaweb.org. s the work performed by gas distribution contractors is in-

Leading the way. Tier 4 emissions and the demand for enclosed cabs are changing pipelayer platforms. Midwestern’s new M540c on CAT D6K2 LGP Richardson, Texas - Approximately 50 member com- The Safety Person of the Year award was awarded pany safety professionals gathered at The Westin Hotel to Jeret Whitescarver of Snelson Companies Inc. in was designed utilizing state of the art 3D scanning, modeling and in San Diego, California April 6-8, 2015, to participate Sedro Woolley, Washington. Whitescarver has been years of experience. This sideboom features a multi-functional in the association’s 20th Annual Safety Congress. Vice President of Safety Health and Environment for joystick controller and a newly designed winch package with The annual event is a venue for construction industry six years. high eﬃciency, two-speed piston motors. Operator visibility is safety personnel to network, share creative training During this time he has shown safety leadership in dramatically improved on both the boom and counterweight sides. concepts, discuss trends and to hear from leading the form of new safety initiatives and programs and Count on Midwestern to stay ahead of the ever changing needs safety training consultants, other safety directors and his accomplishments will have a sustained impact and and the competition. risk management executives. influence on the company for years to come. The highlight of the meeting was the awarding This year’s event was well received by those in of the Safety Director and Safety Person of the Year attendance and included Safety and the Supervisor awards by DCA President, Frank Patterson (above, by Carl Potter of Potter & Associates and Evolving left). The Safety Director of the Year award was given to Behavioral Safety Using Predictive Analytics by Chuck Andy Cleeter of Miller Pipeline in Indianapolis, Indiana. Pettinger of Predictive Solutions. Cleeter (above, right) has been Corporate Safety A Roundtable & Group Discussion regarding You partner with a dealer that has your back Director since January, 2013. During this time he has Tuesday’s topics was held with Andy Cleeter & Tim no matter where the jobs take you. implemented several initiatives that have improved Knaup. the safety program at Miller Pipeline such as continuing There were also numerous discussions and network- to implement Miller Pipeline’s Target Zero initiative, ing about creative training ideas and a wrap up and a program that focuses on injury reduction through planning session for 2016. Next year’s Safety Congress Find out how at volvoce.com/smartpipeline. hazard awareness; a weekly safety newsletter; a New will be held April 18-20 in San Diego, California. Hire Tracking List, updated daily with new hires and DCA wishes to thank the 2015 Safety Congress Co- M540C for CAT D6K2 LGP, Tier 4I/EU Stage IIIB Platform sent to all Safety Coordinators; and a company-wide Chairmen: Andy Cleeter, Miller Pipeline, Indianapolis, glove policy that provided cut-resistant gloves to all Indiana and Tim Knaup, InterCon Construction, field personnel to help reduce the number of hand Waunakee, Wisconsin for their efforts in organizing injuries. this year’s Safety Congress.

Sidebooms.com I MidwesternPipeline.com I 918-858-4234

26 wwww.dcaweb.orgww.dcaweb.org 28 wwww.dcaweb.orgww.dcaweb.org May/June 2015 7 Featured DCA Member Web sites

Alex E. Paris Contracting Company Inc. www.alexparis.com

Alex E. Paris Contracting Co. Inc. was established in 1928 on the The Governor’s Palace, Colonial Williamsburg bedrock principles of quality, service and dependability. They provide comprehensive services to both the public and private sectors, operating primarily in the Mid-Atlantic region. They perform a variety of construction projects with a large and highly skilled work force. Their DCA heads to historic Williamsburg, Virginia for the work includes; site development, utility line construction, both large and small diameter pipeline installation, cross country pipeline, pump 2015 Annual Mid Year Meeting stations, fabrication, landfill construction, and a variety of civil and commercial projects.

Richardson, Texas – The 2015 DCA Mid Year Meeting will Historic York River; Zip Line and Ropes Course Adventure; Century Products be held at Kingsmill Resort, located in the historic town of Old Forge Sporting Clays; Private Sail Aboard Schooner www.centuryproducts.net Williamsburg, Virginia, July 22-26. Alliance & Walk the Battle Fields of Yorktown; Family Round Kingsmill Resort sits in the middle of the Historic Triangle Robin Tennis Tournament and the DCA Golf Tournament. Century Products is a privately held manufacturing and custom design which includes Jamestown, Colonial Williamsburg and An afternoon at Historic Jamestowne & Jamestown firm serving the global HDD Industry. Headquartered in Sussex, Wisconsin Yorktown. Jamestown was the first permanent English Settlement will be an exceptional and unforgettable day with representation in Brazil, Canada, Europe and Mexico, they provide settlement in the Americas founded in 1607. Williamsburg as we travel back in time to America’s birthplace. On worldwide sales across America, Europe, the Middle East, Africa and was founded in 1632 as a fortified settlement on high May 14, 1607 the Virginia Company settlers landed on the Pacific Rim. Their downhole tools are ideal for the diversified market ground between the James and York Rivers. The city served Jamestown Island to establish an English colony. It was segments they serve which include the Oil and Gas Industry, Horizontal as the capital of the Colony of Virginia from 1699 to 1780 inside this fort that England’s first permanent colony in Directional Drilling Industry, Water and Sewer Industry, the Geothermal and was the center of political events in Virginia leading North America took hold and the seeds for the United Industries and also the Mining Industries. In addition, their exclusive to the American Revolution. Yorktown played a significant States of America grew. You will hear from experts who product lines offer tools suitable for a diverse range of drilling rigs to role in both the Revolutionary and Civil Wars. It is most are adding vibrant details to the Jamestown story with ensure the proper tooling to outfit any size rig. famous as the site of the siege and subsequent surrender their archaeological research. of General Cornwallis to General George Washington and The visit to the archaeological site will be followed by Cleveland Brothers Equipment Co. the French Fleet during the American Revolutionary War dinner at the Jamestown Settlement Rediscovery. You will on October 19, 1781. tour the replicas of the three ships that set sail for the new www.clevelandbrothers.com Kingsmill Resort is not just another resort it is a world unto land and have dinner in the recreation of James Fort. Since 1948, Cleveland Brothers has had a history of offering quality itself. It has an unparalleled range of accommodations, Thursday’s General Session will be The Discovery of solutions to support the needs of their customers. They are focused on stunning setting along the James River, and boundless Historic Jamestowne – Hidden for over 300 years with growing your business with the equipment, parts, and service for any range of recreational activities and leisure pursuits on the speaker William M. Kelso, an American archaeologist who size company. The company has 26 locations conveniently located grounds and surrounding areas. directed the Jamestown Rediscovery Project to uncover throughout Pennsylvania, Northern West Virginia and Western Maryland. The Resort offers two outdoor pools, water sports such and preserve artifacts from the Jamestown Colony, the An assortment of online tools and information are also available to help as jet skis, pontoon boat rental, paddle boards and sea first permanent English settlement in North America. make your business decisions easier. cycles, Segway tours, biking, hiking, spa, golf and tennis. A Business Session on the Affordable Care Act and its Complimentary shuttles to Colonial Williamsburg, Busch effects on the construction business will be held on Friday. Gardens, Water Country and shopping in Williamsburg. As always plenty of social activities for networking For more information on neighboring Colonial and enjoying family and friends will be on the agenda Williamsburg visit http://www.colonialwilliamsburg.com/ throughout the week. discover. You can register on the DCA web site at www.dcaweb. Exciting off-site activities are being offered such as: org. For accommodations please call Kingsmill Resort Governor’s Palace & Colonial Williamsburg, Kayaking on directly at: 757-253-1703. The Registration and Housing the James River; Calling all Chocolate Lovers; Behind the Deadline is June 25, 2015. s Scenes Tour of the Dewitt Wallace Gallery, Abby Aldrich Folk Art Museum and the Public Hospital; Fishing on the

82 www.dcaweb.orgwww.dcaweb.org March/AprilMay/June 2015 2011 39 NEW ON NEW ON THE FACEBOOK DCA WEB SITE: & TWITTER: Photos from the DCA Safety Congress acebook Presentations from the DCA/AGA Utility Contractor Workshop Photos from the DCA Job Member News Fair held in Minneapolis, Photos from the Common Minnesota DCA hosts Utility Contractor Job Fair DCA presents at CGA Conference Lincoln Electric names Anthony Battle Chief abides by applicable laws and regulations. Ground Alliance Compliance Officer His team will provide independent oversight Excavation Safety Photos from the DCA/AGA The Lincoln Electric Co., and compliance management activities Conference Utility Contractor Workshop a subsidiary of Lincoln while working closely with senior executives in Chicago, Illinois Electric Holdings Inc., and the Board. Information about the announced the promo- DCA Mid Year Meeting, Information about the DCA tion of Anthony Battle to Chief Compliance CRC-Evans wins safety award by British Safety July 22 - 26, 2015 at Mid Year Meeting, July 22 - Officer, effective immediately. Council This role is in addition to Mr. Battle’s posi- CRC-Evans Pipeline Kingsmill Resort in 26, 2015 at Kingsmill Resort tion as Senior Vice President, Internal Audit, International Inc. was Williamsburg, Virginia in Williamsburg, Virginia Representatives of the DCA recently par- and Officer of the Company. recently awarded an ticipated in the Common Ground Alliance “We are pleased to have Tony lead our International Safety Award Digital download of the Photos and news from Excavation Safety Conference at Shingle compliance team as this expanded role will with Merit for 2015 by the British Safety 2014 Benchmarks and Regular and Associate Creek Resort in Orlando, Florida. fully leverage his deep experience in risk and Council. This represents the fifth consecutive The interactive panel’s session was the 2015 DCA Membership Members compliance matters,” stated Christopher year that CRC-Evans has been recognized On April, 23 DCA contractors, associates and titled Cross Bore Mitigation: Roles And L. Mapes, Chairman, President and Chief with this award for an outstanding commit- Directory industry associations participated in the first Responsibilities. Panelists discussed the abso- Executive Officer. “Given the increased com- ment to the health, safety and well-being of ever DCA job fair in Bloomington MN. The job lute need for consistency and clarity about plexity of the regulatory environment, Tony’s its employees. Toolbox Talks for May and fair came from a need by DCA members for roles and responsibilities within industry as twelve year experience at Lincoln Electric The International Safety Awards are open June witter continued workforce development. Its pur- well as government in order to effectively leading important initiatives will help ensure to organizations of all sizes throughout the pose was to attract qualified candidates to reduce or eliminate cross bores. Horizontal that we continue to have the right systems in world. Organizations are selected for their fill present job opportunities as well as to raise directional drilling is increasingly utilized place to identify and manage risk and com- excellence and high standards of health the awareness of future job seekers regard- because of its effectiveness in providing pliance across our international footprint.” and safety management within the com- UConOnline: Grand ing career opportunities in the industry. reduced surface disturbances, but it does As Chief Compliance Officer, Mr. Battle pany, and nominees are independently IN THE NEXT DCA Canyon building $150 The fair attracted job seekers from ex-mil- not allow the installer to see if other utilities will be responsible for managing compli- reviewed by experienced health and safety E-NEWS: million #water #pipeline itary, trade schools and community colleges are intersected. Increased use of HDD under- ance across all Lincoln Electric businesses practitioners. s as well as soon to be high school graduates. scores the essential need to identify existing and regions to ensure that the organization http://bit.ly/1ELGD1E Job seekers had an opportunity to meet one underground facilities. Panelists described Senate schedules hearing on one with hiring managers, learn about how excavation contractors do their part to on six-year highway bill Senators target Obama’s industry and submit resumes. Construction identify and reduce the likelihood of a cross Welcome New Associate Members water rule https://lnkd.in/ simulators were on site to give participants bore situation. Also, the panel addressed House votes to stop flawed eymdBSp a feel for what it was like to work on a big other responsibilities that need to be met by piece of equipment. DCA members took facility operators and government entities at HTE Technologies Industrial Training Services waters of the United States time to address the high school students the local, state and federal level. 2021 Congressional 310 CC Lowry Dr. Rule about excellent entry & mid-level positions, The session was moderated by Dave St. Louis, MO 63146 Murray, KY 42071 competitive wages, solid benefit packages Wisniewski, vice president of Underground (314) 731-4444 Fax: (314) 731-4424 (270) 753-2150 Fax: (270) 753-9807 Plastics Pipe Institutes and skills training. Installations, Vermeer Corporation and pan- Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Energy Piping Systems Representatives who participated thought elists included: Kevin Miller, president, Miller Look for us on Facebook: www.HTETech.com/Rental Susan Sammons, Chief Executive Officer it was a good event with several companies Pipeline Corporation; Eben Wyman, princi- Division participating on Distribution Contractors Stephanie Balmer, President/COO meeting some very qualified candidates. pal, Wyman Associates; Steve Dockendorf, MCPS panel on gas distri- Association Nick Gutierrez, Division Manager; regional manager, NPL Construction DCA is working to expand workforce oppor- [email protected]; (314) 603-0429 bution systems Follow us on Twitter: tunities and will host more regional job fairs in Company; and Greg Dahl, senior vice pres- Margo Haller, Rental Sales Specialist, DCAtweets the future. ident, ARB Inc. [email protected]; (314) 660-6663

10 www.dcaweb.org May/June 2015 11 2015 CALENDAR OF EVENTS

JULY 22-26 DCA Mid Year Meeting Kingsmill Resort Williamsburg, Virginia Confined spaces rule could protect nearly www.dcaweb.org 800 construction workers a year

SEPTEMBER 29 - OCTOBER 1 Washington, D.C. – The Occupational workers with protections similar to those International Construction & Safety and Health Administration recently manufacturing and general industry workers Utility Equipment Exposition issued a final rule to increase protections for have had for more than two decades, with (ICUEE) construction workers in confined spaces. some differences tailored to the construction Kentucky Exposition Center Manholes, crawl spaces, tanks and industry. These include requirements to Louisville, Kentucky other confined spaces are not intended for ensure that multiple employers share vital www.icuee.com continuous occupancy. They are also difficult safety information and to continuously to exit in an emergency. People working monitor hazards - a safety option made OCTOBER 5-9 in confined spaces face life-threatening possible by technological advances after International & Pipe Line hazards including toxic substances, the manufacturing and general industry Offshore Contractors electrocutions, explosions and asphyxiation. standards were created. Association (IPLOCA) Last year, two workers were asphyxiated “This rule will save lives of construction Fairmont Singapore while repairing leaks in a manhole, the workers,” said Assistant Secretary of Labor www.iploca.com second when he went down to save the for Occupational Safety and Health first - which is not uncommon in cases of Dr. David Michaels. “Unlike most general OCTOBER 26-28 asphyxiation in confined spaces. industry worksites, construction sites are DCA Fall Meeting “In the construction industry, entering continually evolving, with the number and theWit, a Doubletree Hotel confined spaces is often necessary, but characteristics of confined spaces changing Chicago, Illinois fatalities like these don’t have to happen,” as work progresses. This rule emphasizes www.dcaweb.org said Secretary of Labor Thomas E. Perez. training, continuous worksite evaluation “This new rule will significantly improve the and communication requirements to further safety of construction workers who enter protect workers’ safety and health.” confined spaces. In fact, we estimate that Compliance assistance material and 2016 it will prevent about 780 serious injuries every additional information is available at www. year.” osha.gov. s The rule will provide construction FEBRUARY 3-4 Underground Construction Technology (UCT) International Conference & Exhibition Georgia World Congress DISTRIBUTION CONTRACTORS ASSOCIATION Center Atlanta, Georgia DCA NEWS is a bi-monthly publication of Distribution Contractors Association www.uctonline.com 101 West Renner Road, Suite 460, Richardson, Texas 75082 972-680-0261 Fax: 972-680-0461 www.dcaweb.org

Robert G. Darden Candace Green Executive Vice President Marketing & Communications Manager

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