The association is also leading the country in developing a new concrete pump competency certification program. Currently about 300 pump operators have earned a safety certification. “We believe this safety certification is not sufficient and that third-party competency testing is essential. We are also working on innovative approaches that engage the broader construction sector to achieve a consensus on operating competency standards and testing,” he said. Working in partnership with the B.C. Construction Safety Alliance, phase one of the competency effort involved developing standards. It has been broken into five different certification levels based on the nature of the pump, and will ensure operators are properly trained and experienced for the safety of everyone on site. “Safety of course is everyone’s concern,” Kelly says. “Pumps are getting bigger and more sophisticated and the market is moving to booms of up to 60 meters. Concrete pumps are high pressure, complex machines that require specific training and knowledge.” Phase two of the certification involves the development of assessment tools. Subsequent stages will include pilot testing, promoting and training and then a final industry consultation, before the full program is rolled out. “The end result will be similar to that used in the crane industry where competence must be demonstrated to a third party.” Kelly says many contractors need to develop greater understanding about the importance of safety around pumps. While the association will be responsible for certification, it will be up to contractors to enforce compliance and insist on certified pump operators. The information will all be available on www.pumpbc.ca once details are finalized in an effort to make it all as accessible as possible. The association has previously led in developing an industry safety manual, which it shared with other associations across the country. In other areas, the association is playing a leadership role in working with CICFI (Council of ICF Industries). “There has been a lot of emphasis lately on ICF (insulated concrete forms) for their energy cost savings. The council currently has four manufacturers and expects a membership of six manufactures representing about 80 per cent of the North American ICF market. There is great potential for ICF in northern markets and for creating more sound housing in potential disaster areas.” While many parts of the country are experiencing broad concerns about the economy, Kelly says there is a high level of optimism in B.C. With an expected sales tax increase to be directed to infrastructure, he foresees a boom to the economy through the increased development of bridges, roads, tunnels and light rail. “More commuter infrastructure will lead to housing development. There is expansion in the gas fields and growth in the mid-north, a rebound in the Okanagan, the building of the Site C Hydro Dam just to name a few examples. Things are looking promising.” For more information, visit www.bcrmca.ca. GREG GREBINSKI SURETY BONDS SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Rogers Insurance offers construction contractors a specialized maximize every client’s capacity and capability to bond. 600 - 1000 Centre St. N Calgary, AB Main 403.296.2400 Toll Free 1.800.565.8132 rogersinsurance.ca The Canadian Design and Construction Report — February - March 2015 – 29