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Jim Kellett Takes the Lead at ECAO 2011 ECAO Industry Conference

Jim Kellett Takes the Lead at ECAO 2011 ECAO Industry Conference

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The Ontario Electrical Contractor ispublished quarterly for:C O N T E N T S<strong>Jim</strong>Volume 49 • Number 2 • Spring <strong>2011</strong><strong>Kellett</strong> – New <strong>ECAO</strong> President ...........................................10<strong>ECAO</strong> <strong>Conference</strong> <strong>2011</strong> ................................................................14<strong>2011</strong> <strong>ECAO</strong> Annual Report ...........................................................24Downloading of Risk in Construction Contracts .............35OH&S and WSIB Funding Review .............................................36Impact of Overtime on Productivity ......................................38Advertisers Index .........................................................................42On The Cover: <strong>ECAO</strong>’s incoming President, <strong>Jim</strong> <strong>Kellett</strong>,K-Line Maintenance & Construction Limited (see story page 10).170 Attwell Drive, Suite 460, Toronto,Ontario M9W 5Z5Tel: 416-675-3226Fax: 416-675-77361-800-387-<strong>ECAO</strong> (3226)email: ecao@ecao.orgWeb: www.ecao.org<strong>ECAO</strong> EXECUTIVE COMMITTEEPresident: John Raepple,John Raepple Electric Ltd., CambridgePast-President: Fred Black, Stevens &Black Electrical Contractors, MarkhamFirst Vice-President: <strong>Jim</strong> <strong>Kellett</strong>,K-Line Maintenance & ConstructionLimited, StouffvilleSecond Vice-President: Dan Lancia,Holaco Install<strong>at</strong>ions Limited, HamiltonTreasurer: Bill McKee,Carleton Electric Ltd., NepeanDirector: Dave Mason,D. J. Mason Electric Co. Ltd., HamiltonExecutive Vice-President: Eryl RobertsThe Ontario Electrical Contractor is <strong>the</strong> official public<strong>at</strong>ion of<strong>the</strong> Electrical Contractors Associ<strong>at</strong>ion of Ontario. Its purposeis to provide inform<strong>at</strong>ion and editorial comment on issuesth<strong>at</strong> are relevant to <strong>the</strong> electrical contracting industry.PublisherRobert ThompsonAssoci<strong>at</strong>e EditorAngela AltassEditorAli MintenkoSales ManagerJoe StrazzulloSales ExecutivesNolan Ackman, Jack Smith, David TetlockProduction Team <strong>Lead</strong>erAdrienne N. WilsonGraphic Design/Directory SpecialistKrista ZimmermannPublished by:www.mediaedgepublishing.com5255 Yonge Street, Suite 1000Toronto, ON M2N 6P41-866-216-0860 ext.229Email: robertt@mediaedge.ca531 Marion StreetWinnipeg, MB R2J 0J91-866-201-3096Fax: (204) 480-4420www.mediaedgepublishing.comPresidentKevin BrownSenior Vice-PresidentRobert ThompsonBranch ManagerNancie PrivéAll rights reserved. The contents of this public<strong>at</strong>ion may notbe reproduced by any means, in whole or in part, without<strong>the</strong> prior written consent of <strong>the</strong> associ<strong>at</strong>ion.PUBLICATION MAIL AGREEMENT #40063602Return Undeliverable Items to: The Ontario Electrical Contractor, 170 Attwell Drive, Suite 460, Toronto, Ontario M9W 5Z5Ontario Electrical Contractor9


<strong>ECAO</strong> PRESIDENT<strong>Jim</strong> <strong>Kellett</strong>By Angela Altass<strong>Takes</strong> The <strong>Lead</strong> <strong>at</strong> <strong>ECAO</strong>The incoming president of <strong>the</strong> ElectricalContractors Associ<strong>at</strong>ion of Ontario brings awealth of experience and a passion for <strong>the</strong>industry with him to lead <strong>the</strong> associ<strong>at</strong>ion for<strong>the</strong> next two years.“This is a good time – a time of opportunityfor this industry,” st<strong>at</strong>es <strong>ECAO</strong>’s newPresident <strong>Jim</strong> <strong>Kellett</strong>. “It is also a timeof challenge.”There is a gre<strong>at</strong> need for infrastructurerenewal in <strong>the</strong> province but, <strong>at</strong> <strong>the</strong> sametime, <strong>the</strong> industry is dealing with a skilledworker shortage, especially in <strong>the</strong> highvoltagesector, notes <strong>Kellett</strong>.“There are also many people in our associ<strong>at</strong>ionwho are trade folks who started<strong>the</strong>ir own electrical contracting businessand are now getting ready to retire,” hesays. “These people need a succession plan– do <strong>the</strong>y sell <strong>the</strong> company to employeesor to a larger company or is <strong>the</strong>re someoneto hand <strong>the</strong> company down to in <strong>the</strong>irfamily, or do <strong>the</strong>y just wind down <strong>the</strong>company altoge<strong>the</strong>r?”<strong>Jim</strong> <strong>Kellett</strong>, Senior Vice President ofOper<strong>at</strong>ions and Engineering with K-LineGroup of Company’s Construction sector,has worked his way up <strong>the</strong> ladder with <strong>the</strong>company th<strong>at</strong> was founded by his uncleGlenn <strong>Kellett</strong> in 1967.“I started as an apprentice lineman in1979,” recalls <strong>Kellett</strong> who l<strong>at</strong>er moved toSask<strong>at</strong>chewan to complete his apprenticeshipand <strong>the</strong>n moved on to a supervisoryrole for <strong>the</strong> company. “In 1985, <strong>the</strong>company expanded to Nova Scotia and<strong>the</strong> Atlantic Provinces and I went <strong>the</strong>re in1987 to take over as Division Manager forAtlantic Canada. After Nova Scotia powerpriv<strong>at</strong>ized, we wound down th<strong>at</strong> oper<strong>at</strong>ionand I went back to Sask<strong>at</strong>chewan.”<strong>Kellett</strong>, who still holds a power line certific<strong>at</strong>ionin Sask<strong>at</strong>chewan, Ontario and NovaScotia, and a red seal (Interprovincial,)has also worked in <strong>the</strong> Bahamas for <strong>the</strong>company’s Intern<strong>at</strong>ional Division and hasworked on projects in St. Lucia and Dominicabefore settling back in Ontario with hiscurrent role in 2000.<strong>Kellett</strong>, who oversees a staff of nearly400 loc<strong>at</strong>ed across <strong>the</strong> country, says<strong>the</strong> electrical contracting industry haschanged vastly since his uncle started in<strong>the</strong> business.“My uncle started <strong>the</strong> business in <strong>the</strong> basementof his house with one truck,” he says,noting th<strong>at</strong> live line work has always been afound<strong>at</strong>ion of <strong>the</strong> company business.Safety is a key component of K-Line’swork ethic, and <strong>the</strong> importance of safety issomething th<strong>at</strong> <strong>Kellett</strong> will be carrying overinto his role of President of <strong>the</strong> ElectricalContractors Associ<strong>at</strong>ion of Ontario.“We have a world-class safety program <strong>at</strong>K-Line,” says <strong>Kellett</strong>. “Safety and trainingare absolutely critical in this industry.”Ontario Electrical Contractor10


Since 2002 <strong>Kellett</strong> has been involvedwith <strong>the</strong> Electrical & Utilities SafetyAssoci<strong>at</strong>ion, and now <strong>the</strong> InfrastructureHealth and Safety Associ<strong>at</strong>ion where hehas particip<strong>at</strong>ed in <strong>the</strong> development of aZeroQuest program with a vision of zerolost time injuries and illnesses. The goal ofZeroQuest is to guide participants through<strong>the</strong> process of building a sustainable healthand safety system.He was a member of a power line advisorycommittee in Nova Scotia from 1988 to1995 and has been involved with Ontario’sPAC and is looking forward to particip<strong>at</strong>ingwith <strong>the</strong> new College of Trades andhas been actively involved with <strong>the</strong> Gre<strong>at</strong>erToronto Electrical Contractors Associ<strong>at</strong>ion.In addition, <strong>Kellett</strong> is a founding memberof <strong>the</strong> Safe Sask<strong>at</strong>chewan board, whichhas a vision to keep Sask<strong>at</strong>chewan injuryfree. <strong>Kellett</strong> is also a board member andon <strong>the</strong> executive with Canada’s ElectricitySector Council.“I am looking forward to being President,”he st<strong>at</strong>es. “This is <strong>the</strong> first time in a whileth<strong>at</strong> someone from <strong>the</strong> high-voltageutility side has served as President, soit brings a different perspective to <strong>the</strong>position, although I am not just biased toth<strong>at</strong> sector.”<strong>Kellett</strong> praises <strong>the</strong> staff <strong>at</strong> K-Line and <strong>at</strong><strong>the</strong> Electrical Contractors Associ<strong>at</strong>ion ofOntario for <strong>the</strong>ir help in making it possibleBuilders of Custom-Engineered Metal Enclosed Switchgearand Vista Switchgear, S&C Electric Canada can Supply AllYour Medium Voltage Project NeedsCall Richard Farquharson, P.Eng. <strong>at</strong> 905-409-2259The amalgam<strong>at</strong>ion of local area contractorassoci<strong>at</strong>ions into a larger regional associ<strong>at</strong>ionis a goal th<strong>at</strong> <strong>Kellett</strong> intends to carryon from his predecessor John Raepple.“It would serve <strong>the</strong> industry better if wepool our resources as a unified voice,” says<strong>Kellett</strong>. We need to ensure we are representingall <strong>the</strong> constituents properly! Astronger regional associ<strong>at</strong>ion would providea better focus on our long-term goals as anassoci<strong>at</strong>ion and to make government andindustry alike understand wh<strong>at</strong> it is th<strong>at</strong> wedo and how we do it. Whe<strong>the</strong>r it is in <strong>the</strong>telecommunic<strong>at</strong>ions, industrial, commercial,residential or high-voltage line work,we have a shared focus on industry issues.”<strong>Kellett</strong> also believes in working toge<strong>the</strong>rwith labour partners <strong>the</strong> Intern<strong>at</strong>ionalBro<strong>the</strong>rhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW)to sustain and improve <strong>the</strong> overall industry.Although he comes from a line workersbackground, <strong>Kellett</strong> emphasizes th<strong>at</strong> <strong>the</strong>associ<strong>at</strong>ion, and himself as president, is<strong>the</strong>re to represent <strong>the</strong> entire industry. Henotes th<strong>at</strong> <strong>the</strong> electrical industry is a uniquesector th<strong>at</strong> is not totally understood by <strong>the</strong>general public, who tend to take electricityfor granted.www.sandc.comGLAHOLT LLPCONSTRUCTION LAWYERSwww.glaholt.comOntario Electrical Contractor11


<strong>ECAO</strong> PRESIDENTfor him to take on <strong>the</strong> role of president of<strong>the</strong> associ<strong>at</strong>ion.“I am pretty good <strong>at</strong> multi-tasking,” he comments.“I don’t micro-manage. It’s a teamfocus for <strong>the</strong> board and management and<strong>the</strong>re is an excellent staff whose experiencewill be immensely helpful. Also, <strong>the</strong> staffhere <strong>at</strong> K-Line helps me with wh<strong>at</strong> needsto be done here, enabling me to spend timeon associ<strong>at</strong>ion m<strong>at</strong>ters. I have some goodpeople here who help pick up <strong>the</strong> slack whenI am involved with associ<strong>at</strong>ions and organiz<strong>at</strong>ions.I would say th<strong>at</strong> 45 to 50 per centof my time is spent on external entities, buteveryone understands th<strong>at</strong> being involvedin industry associ<strong>at</strong>ions comes back to <strong>the</strong>business in many positive ways.”of <strong>the</strong> ScienceThe Art<strong>Kellett</strong> describes himself as someone witha good sense of humour who also knowswhen to be serious.“You’ve heard of Larry <strong>the</strong> Cable Guy, well,I am <strong>Jim</strong>my <strong>the</strong> Line Guy,” he says with achuckle. “I am passion<strong>at</strong>e about my ideasand uses my sense of humour effectively.”When Sam Eckler helped local clothing workers and manufacturers establish <strong>the</strong>first multi-employer pension plan in Canada, he was on to something.Today, multi-employer plans cover over one million Canadians –with Eckler Ltd. <strong>at</strong> <strong>the</strong> forefront of <strong>the</strong> industry.Our professionals combine <strong>the</strong>ir insight into <strong>the</strong> issues facingtrustees and members, with technical excellence and progressivepractices. The result is inspired solutions for today’s trusteesand administr<strong>at</strong>ors.www.eckler.capensions group benefits communic<strong>at</strong>ions investment consulting technology administr<strong>at</strong>ionA M E M B E R O F A B E L I C A G L O B A LHe resides with his wife Linda in Auroraand enjoys travelling, hunting, fishing andspending time outdoors, including huntingand fishing camp, just East of Bracebridgeor visiting his cottage in <strong>the</strong> Haliburtonarea or his farm in rural Sask<strong>at</strong>chewan. Hisson, Morgan, recently became a power linetechnician and his daughter, Ariel, is studyingart and design.“I am an optimistic person who is lookingforward to <strong>the</strong> challenges and opportunitiesth<strong>at</strong> will come to my <strong>at</strong>tention as Presidentof <strong>ECAO</strong>,” says <strong>Kellett</strong>. “This is a gre<strong>at</strong>associ<strong>at</strong>ion with such diversity in <strong>the</strong> size of<strong>the</strong> businesses and regions th<strong>at</strong> belong to it,and yet we are all able to come toge<strong>the</strong>r oncommon challenges and find solutions for<strong>the</strong> overall good of <strong>the</strong> industry. Regionally,<strong>the</strong>re can be some disparity sometimesbut we are still able to come toge<strong>the</strong>r in<strong>the</strong> most unbiased way possible. I like <strong>the</strong>people within <strong>the</strong> associ<strong>at</strong>ion – <strong>the</strong> staff andboard members. We have a very productiveand effective board.”Ontario Electrical Contractor12


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<strong>ECAO</strong> CONFERENCEPURA VIDA!!TThe Electrical Contractors Associ<strong>at</strong>ion ofOntario welcomed 129 deleg<strong>at</strong>es to <strong>the</strong> JWMarriott Guanacaste Spa and Resort Hotelin Liberia, Costa Rica, from March 19 to26, <strong>2011</strong>. Costa Rica should be consideredone of <strong>the</strong> world’s rarest jewels. With warmw<strong>at</strong>ers year-round, an unparalleled tourisminfrastructure, limitless <strong>at</strong>tractions spanningtwo coasts, tropical rainforests, activevolcanoes, windswept mountaintops anda high density of wildlife, Costa Rica is anexciting, adventurous, vibrant and exoticplace to explore.The country prides itself on its ecologicalvalues th<strong>at</strong> would embarrass many in <strong>the</strong>so-called modern world. It is also <strong>the</strong> onlycountry in L<strong>at</strong>in America th<strong>at</strong> is neutral, withno military. Instead, <strong>the</strong> focus is on educ<strong>at</strong>ion,health, community and <strong>the</strong> environment.It’s no wonder <strong>the</strong> popular CostaRican phrase “Pura Vida,” literally meaning“Pure Life,” is used to express a philosophyof strong community, perseverance, resiliencein overcoming difficulties with good spirits,enjoying life slowly, and celebr<strong>at</strong>ing goodfortune, no m<strong>at</strong>ter how small.With its stunning surroundings, Costa Ricawas ready to provide <strong>the</strong> <strong>ECAO</strong> deleg<strong>at</strong>eswith <strong>the</strong> “kind of beauty” th<strong>at</strong> hurts <strong>the</strong> eyesand was sure to guarantee an extraordinarilyunforgettable experience.Deleg<strong>at</strong>es were welcomed by <strong>the</strong> JWMarriott’s warm hospitality and stunning5-star property with a relaxing spa-like<strong>at</strong>mosphere. With stunning sunsets on<strong>the</strong> beachfront every night and wonderfulservice-with-a-smile all day, it was not difficultto settle in.Ontario Electrical Contractor14


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<strong>ECAO</strong> CONFERENCE<strong>ECAO</strong> kicked off <strong>the</strong> conference with awelcome party th<strong>at</strong> shook off winter ina hurry. The elabor<strong>at</strong>e buffet tickled <strong>the</strong>tastebuds and <strong>the</strong> traditional Costa RicanMarimba players (a marimba is a woodenkey instrument th<strong>at</strong> resembles a xylophone)produced a beautiful sound to set <strong>the</strong> mood.The business portion of <strong>the</strong> conferenceconsisted of two days of sessions, commencingwith keynote speaker and stand-upcomedian Adam Growe, host of DiscoveryChannel’s Game Show “Cash Cab.” Adamprovided a hilarious interactive sessionengaging <strong>the</strong> deleg<strong>at</strong>es in a morning oflaughter, brain–teasing questions andcomedic relief th<strong>at</strong> revved everyone up for<strong>the</strong> upcoming serious side of <strong>the</strong> agenda.Chris Schultz with <strong>the</strong> Light Up TheWorld found<strong>at</strong>ion spoke on “Electricityfor Human Development: The Story ofOff-grid Villages in Costa Rica.” Chris’senlightening present<strong>at</strong>ion on this charitableorganiz<strong>at</strong>ion’s efforts to provide solarenergy to remote villages in Costa Ricaimpressed <strong>the</strong> <strong>ECAO</strong> board of directorswho consequently made a don<strong>at</strong>ion toprojects in this country.Dan Leduc, Ogilvy Renault presented histake on “Shifts Happens; SubcontractorDEHN protects.Safety for your Property.905-612-1288To be Sure - use DEHN.Lightning & Surge Protection Solutions.R3&A Limited - CobourgPhone (1) 905 377 8577Fax (1) 905 377 8578info@r3alimited.comWebsite www.r3alimited.com orwww.dehn.deOntario Electrical Contractor16


Risk Management – Dealing with ShiftingRisk.” Dan’s ever insightful view oncontract law cautioned deleg<strong>at</strong>es on <strong>the</strong>risks associ<strong>at</strong>ed with non-standard contractlanguage (see story page 35).Brian Gauthier, IMAGINiT Technologiespresented “Building Inform<strong>at</strong>ion Modeling:Examining <strong>the</strong> impact of BIM on<strong>the</strong> Canadian Building <strong>Industry</strong>.” Brian’sreview of this innov<strong>at</strong>ive technology andits valuable applic<strong>at</strong>ion in <strong>the</strong> constructionand maintenance phases of a building wastruly an eye opener.Dr. Awad Hanna, University ofWisconsin-Madison, spoke on “The Effectsof Overtime on Productivity” explaining<strong>the</strong> pros and cons of various overtimescenarios and <strong>the</strong>ir effect on <strong>the</strong> bottomline (see story page 38).<strong>ECAO</strong> organized a unique dining experiencewith a beach party for <strong>the</strong> deleg<strong>at</strong>eson <strong>the</strong> Wednesday evening. Deleg<strong>at</strong>esenjoyed ano<strong>the</strong>r night of unwinding withgre<strong>at</strong> company and convers<strong>at</strong>ion, tastybarbeque fare, a rocking band, and if th<strong>at</strong>wasn’t enough, a stellar fireworks display.Deleg<strong>at</strong>es were out of <strong>the</strong>ir chairs and flipflops and into <strong>the</strong> sand, dancing till <strong>the</strong> weehours to The Lea<strong>the</strong>rbacks, a rock ‘n’ rollCommercial Roll is a manufacturer of Cable Tray, Strut and Support Systems, Flush Floor Boxes,Surface Floor Fittings, and Under-Floor Duct Systems. Most items are regularly carried in stock.Committed to Quality, Service, and Exceptional Value.Customer s<strong>at</strong>isfaction is our business!Commercial Roll Formed Products Ltd.225 Parkhurst Square, Brampton, Ontario, L6T 5H5ISOISO9001:20009001:2000CERTIFIEDCERTIFIEDPH: (905) 790-5665 FX: (905) 790-8690 Est. 1971ISO 9001:2000CERTIFIEDwww.commercialroll.comOntario Electrical Contractor17


<strong>ECAO</strong> CONFERENCEband fronted by Canadian Nick D’Amico,vocalist and guitarist and his five bandm<strong>at</strong>es. The night was especially memorablefor Roger McFarlane, who celebr<strong>at</strong>edhis 60th birthday.While some deleg<strong>at</strong>es used <strong>the</strong>ir free timeto relax by <strong>the</strong> pool or on <strong>the</strong> beach, excursionswere organized for those curious toexplore more of Costa Rica. Many deleg<strong>at</strong>esparticip<strong>at</strong>ed in <strong>the</strong> Cartagena CanopyTour, where <strong>the</strong>y conquered <strong>the</strong>ir fear ofheights as <strong>the</strong>y strapped into a harness,clipped onto a cable, and soared through<strong>the</strong> trees alongside <strong>the</strong> howler monkeys.Kudos to those dare-devils brave enough tozip-line upside down! O<strong>the</strong>r tours included<strong>the</strong> Arenal Volcano and a trek through <strong>the</strong>Coter Rainforest ending in a relaxing timein <strong>the</strong> n<strong>at</strong>ural hot springs, or crossing<strong>the</strong> border to Costa Rica’s neighbouringcountry, Nicaragua. A few deleg<strong>at</strong>es got<strong>the</strong>ir adrenaline pumping on an off-roadATV tour through <strong>the</strong> dusty terrain. Somefirst-timers experienced a few bumps in<strong>the</strong> road and found <strong>the</strong>mselves in <strong>the</strong>ditch while some o<strong>the</strong>rs just felt compelledto share <strong>the</strong>ir excitement before takingoff. Final excursions included a visit toPalo Verde N<strong>at</strong>ional Park where deleg<strong>at</strong>esexplored <strong>the</strong> w<strong>at</strong>erways filled with birds,crocodiles, iguanas, white faced monkeys,howler monkeys, and more and a visit to<strong>the</strong> Rincon de la Vieja Park where deleg<strong>at</strong>esparticip<strong>at</strong>ed in a mar<strong>at</strong>hon of horsebackriding, zip-lining, rappelling, swingingover <strong>the</strong> Rio Blanco Canyon and rockclimbing <strong>the</strong>ir way through an expeditionto a nearby w<strong>at</strong>erfall.As difficult as it was to think about, <strong>the</strong> triphad to come to an end. On <strong>the</strong> last evening<strong>at</strong> <strong>the</strong> President’s Gala deleg<strong>at</strong>es startedby <strong>the</strong> pool side with mouth-w<strong>at</strong>ering hord’oeuvres like crab cakes and ceviche, with<strong>the</strong> guitar trio gently filling <strong>the</strong> night airwith sound.Deleg<strong>at</strong>es <strong>the</strong>n moved on to <strong>the</strong> stunningballroom for one last evening, ch<strong>at</strong>tingabout <strong>the</strong> days past and hoping to hear<strong>the</strong>ir names called for <strong>the</strong> cash prizes.Congr<strong>at</strong>ul<strong>at</strong>ions to Tom Grenon, JennyMason, Cindy Gibson, Susan Conrad, Loriwww.carletonelectric.com22 D Jamie Avenue, Nepean, ON K2E 6T6Phone: 613.224.1588 Fax: 613.224.1975info@carletonelectric.comNEW!Products forSolar/Wind FarmsCable TrayBasket TrayFloorboxesWirewaysEnclosureswww.cerinc.caPhone: 1-877-213-8045 - Fax: 905-337-7426900 Winston Churchill Blvd.Oakville ON L6J 7X5CALL FORA FREECATALOGUEOntario Electrical Contractor18


WANTED:TELECOMMUNICATIONSSPECIALISTS“In all types of missions, inform<strong>at</strong>ion can be<strong>the</strong> most powerful weapon of all. As a signaloper<strong>at</strong>or, I play <strong>the</strong> important role of keepingth<strong>at</strong> inform<strong>at</strong>ion moving.”Corporal JONATHAN FULLARTONRECHERCHONS :SPÉCIALISTESDES TÉLÉCOMMUNICATIONS« Peu importe la mission, la maîtrise del’inform<strong>at</strong>ion peut être l’arme la plus redoutable.En tant qu’opér<strong>at</strong>eur des transmissions, monrôle est donc capital. C’est moi qui fais en sorteque les inform<strong>at</strong>ions circulent constamment. »Caporal JONATHAN FULLARTON


<strong>ECAO</strong> CONFERENCESalmon, Trish Crawford and our grandprize winner Maureen Tilson. Dinnerended but <strong>the</strong> night continued as <strong>the</strong> bandRrequete filled <strong>the</strong> evening with dance andmusic. Deleg<strong>at</strong>es had <strong>the</strong> time of <strong>the</strong>irlife, whe<strong>the</strong>r it was doing <strong>the</strong> limbo or <strong>the</strong>Macarena, or even assisting <strong>the</strong> band in<strong>the</strong> vocals.The last trip was to <strong>the</strong> airport but notwithout some additional excitement.Those on <strong>the</strong> last bus experienced a brokenfan belt, but Swiss Travel soon had <strong>the</strong>deleg<strong>at</strong>es transferred to ano<strong>the</strong>r bus andon <strong>the</strong>ir way. It was tough to say goodbye,but all in all it was an amazing trip, andone th<strong>at</strong> will, no doubt, be talked aboutfor some time.Trust TTS TMSelf-Regul<strong>at</strong>ing He<strong>at</strong> Tracing Systems• Pipe Freeze Protection• Roof & Gutter De-Icing• Frost Heave Protectionwww.3M.ca/electricalVers<strong>at</strong>ile.Reliable.Certified.Ontario Electrical Contractor20


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<strong>2011</strong> <strong>ECAO</strong> ANNUAL REPORTWho We Are:The Electrical Contractors Associ<strong>at</strong>ion of Ontario (<strong>ECAO</strong>) representsapproxim<strong>at</strong>ely 1,000 unionized electrical contracting firms,<strong>the</strong> majority of which are small- to medium- sized, family ownedand oper<strong>at</strong>ed businesses in Ontario. Sixty per cent of <strong>the</strong>se firms arefull members by virtue of <strong>the</strong>ir membership in one or more of <strong>the</strong>13 local area ECAs.<strong>ECAO</strong> represents only bona fide electrical contractors who have acontractual rel<strong>at</strong>ionship with <strong>the</strong> IBEW.Membership in <strong>ECAO</strong> also affords membership in <strong>the</strong> CanadianElectrical Contractors Associ<strong>at</strong>ion (CECA) and affili<strong>at</strong>ion with <strong>the</strong>N<strong>at</strong>ional Electrical Contractors Associ<strong>at</strong>ion (NECA).Who We Work With:<strong>ECAO</strong> acts as <strong>the</strong> secretari<strong>at</strong> and “head office” to a number ofrel<strong>at</strong>ed organiz<strong>at</strong>ions whose activities may also be included in thisreport. They are:• Canadian Electrical Contractors Associ<strong>at</strong>ion (CECA)• Energy Efficiency Contractors Network (EECN)• Joint Electrical Promotion Plan (JEPP)• N<strong>at</strong>ional Electrical Trade Council (NETCO)Through <strong>the</strong>se organiz<strong>at</strong>ions <strong>ECAO</strong> partners with ECAs from o<strong>the</strong>rprovinces, o<strong>the</strong>r n<strong>at</strong>ional and provincial trade associ<strong>at</strong>ions and <strong>the</strong>IBEW to fur<strong>the</strong>r <strong>the</strong> interests of <strong>the</strong> electrical contracting industryon specific issues beyond <strong>ECAO</strong>’s immedi<strong>at</strong>e jurisdiction.Partners and Alliances:<strong>ECAO</strong> particip<strong>at</strong>es in organiz<strong>at</strong>ions th<strong>at</strong> fur<strong>the</strong>r <strong>the</strong> interests of<strong>ECAO</strong> members. These organiz<strong>at</strong>ions include:• Council of Ontario Construction Associ<strong>at</strong>ions (COCA)• Ontario Construction Users Council (OCUC)• Construction Employers Coordin<strong>at</strong>ing Council of Ontario(CECCO)Wh<strong>at</strong> We Do:• Present a favourable contractor image to our customers andindustry colleagues.• Provide inform<strong>at</strong>ion to keep members current on industry andbusiness trends.• Increase member capabilities by developing, promoting anddelivering training to advance <strong>the</strong>ir technical and businessmanagement skills.• Promote <strong>the</strong> safe use of electricity.• Work cooper<strong>at</strong>ively with o<strong>the</strong>rs in construction to provides<strong>at</strong>isfactory customer service <strong>at</strong> a profit.• Maintain economically sound labour/management businessrel<strong>at</strong>ions.• Liaise with governments on m<strong>at</strong>ters of mutual interest orconcern.• Work with o<strong>the</strong>r government organiz<strong>at</strong>ions to be a goodcontributing corpor<strong>at</strong>e citizen.Ontario Electrical Contractor24


<strong>2011</strong> <strong>ECAO</strong> ANNUAL REPORTPresident’s Report - (continued)Too often <strong>the</strong>se m<strong>at</strong>ters end up with yourcustomers, regul<strong>at</strong>ors or o<strong>the</strong>rs with marketpower on <strong>the</strong> opposite side of <strong>the</strong> issue and<strong>at</strong> <strong>the</strong> table.One area where <strong>ECAO</strong> could do a betterjob of running interference for <strong>the</strong> membershipis standard commercial practices. Over<strong>the</strong> past five years, <strong>ECAO</strong> has graduallyexpanded its educ<strong>at</strong>ional and lobbying rolerel<strong>at</strong>ed to our favourite topic of getting paid,but <strong>the</strong>re is a lot more to be done. In recognitionof this, <strong>the</strong> <strong>ECAO</strong> board has cre<strong>at</strong>eda new standard practices committee whoserole will go beyond educ<strong>at</strong>ion and mayinclude interceding on behalf of <strong>the</strong> membershipon m<strong>at</strong>ters rel<strong>at</strong>ed to tendering andcontracts. Some area ECAs already have awell-developed process in place for this, but<strong>the</strong>re is a need to ensure th<strong>at</strong> <strong>the</strong> same messageis delivered to clients, <strong>the</strong>ir represent<strong>at</strong>ivesand general contractors throughout<strong>the</strong> province - and th<strong>at</strong> it is delivered by <strong>the</strong>associ<strong>at</strong>ion. This whole issue will be fleshedout in development of <strong>the</strong> new <strong>ECAO</strong> str<strong>at</strong>egicplan this spring.As <strong>the</strong> electrical trade and business evolves,<strong>ECAO</strong>’s commitment to protecting <strong>the</strong>scope of <strong>the</strong> electrical business and maintainingopen and fair access to electricalmarkets becomes increasingly valuable andwell recognized. It is an asset we shouldexploit whenever necessary to allow electricalcontractors to do wh<strong>at</strong> <strong>the</strong>y do best -grow <strong>the</strong> market.The new <strong>ECAO</strong> str<strong>at</strong>egic plan will bedeveloped in May <strong>2011</strong> with particip<strong>at</strong>ionof all area directors and labour rel<strong>at</strong>ions represent<strong>at</strong>ives.The new plan will be presentedto <strong>the</strong> membership <strong>at</strong> <strong>the</strong> annual meeting onJune 16.My years on <strong>the</strong> <strong>ECAO</strong> executive and,in particular, <strong>the</strong> past two years as yourpresident have been both challenging andexciting. During my tenure <strong>the</strong> associ<strong>at</strong>ionhas faced recession, renewal of <strong>the</strong> no strikeaccord, collective bargaining, decline of ourindustrial work base and emergence of newmarket opportunities in <strong>the</strong> commercial andrenewable energy sectors. It has been quite aride, but through it all I have had <strong>the</strong> privilegeof working with a committed team ofcontractor volunteers and <strong>ECAO</strong> staff with<strong>the</strong> best interests of <strong>the</strong> industry foremostin mind.On behalf of <strong>the</strong> members of <strong>the</strong> board ofdirectors and myself, I wish to sincerelythank all <strong>the</strong> volunteer members of ourcommittees and our staff for <strong>the</strong>ir dedic<strong>at</strong>edefforts on our behalf. If you have notalready done so, please go to www.ecao.organd check <strong>the</strong> names and affili<strong>at</strong>ions of ourmany committee volunteers. These peoplework with <strong>the</strong> support of <strong>the</strong>ir companies tohelp improve <strong>the</strong> working environment forall of us. Likewise our staff who work longhours to oper<strong>at</strong>e a very effective associ<strong>at</strong>iondedic<strong>at</strong>ed to <strong>the</strong> betterment of its members.Please tell <strong>the</strong>m thanks <strong>the</strong> next time yousee <strong>the</strong>m.Executive Vice-President’s Report - By Eryl RobertsIn last year’s report we wrote th<strong>at</strong> economicstability might be a thing of <strong>the</strong> past- a figment of an economist’s dream. Thestreng<strong>the</strong>ning Canadian dollar reinforcesour concern about any real advances in <strong>the</strong>industrial sector which has traditionallybeen our strong suit. We are, however, stillbetting th<strong>at</strong> <strong>the</strong> recovery will be led by <strong>the</strong>small commercial market. Our record in thismarket is not so good, but if th<strong>at</strong> is where<strong>the</strong> work is going to be, <strong>the</strong>re is where wehave to go. In <strong>the</strong> 2010 round of bargainingwe made it a central issue and found somesuccess with an additional four locals negoti<strong>at</strong>ingmore competitive conditions for thistype of work. Unfortun<strong>at</strong>ely, a month oflabour/management brainstorming duringprovincial negoti<strong>at</strong>ions does not solve <strong>the</strong>problem. We have to keep <strong>at</strong> it during <strong>the</strong>term of <strong>the</strong> agreement, particularly duringa period when massive infrastructure/stimuluswork is masking <strong>the</strong> reality of small jobcompetition. Typically it is during periodsof rel<strong>at</strong>ive good employment on <strong>the</strong> megajobsth<strong>at</strong> we get killed on <strong>the</strong> small work.After <strong>the</strong> negoti<strong>at</strong>ions proper, <strong>the</strong> ETBAand IBEW-CCO met on several occasionsto deal with solar farm install<strong>at</strong>ions. Thesetalks resulted in development of a protocolfor applic<strong>at</strong>ion in each area and dealt withissues such as work assignment, trade jurisdictionand temporary help. Though <strong>the</strong>seinstall<strong>at</strong>ions are impressive man-hour gener<strong>at</strong>ors,<strong>the</strong> market will be s<strong>at</strong>ur<strong>at</strong>ed by <strong>the</strong>end of <strong>the</strong> current agreement. The sustainablegrowth will be in <strong>the</strong> ICI rooftop install<strong>at</strong>ions.Our involvement with <strong>the</strong> IBEW onthis has been directed <strong>at</strong> confirming solar aspart of <strong>the</strong> electrical trade and establishingOntario Electrical Contractor26quality standards and training to differenti<strong>at</strong>eour product from <strong>the</strong> o<strong>the</strong>rs. Some areaECAs and local unions have begun to considerdifferent employment terms for thiswork, but <strong>the</strong> market is so new it is hard to


<strong>2011</strong> <strong>ECAO</strong> ANNUAL REPORTExecutive Vice-President’s Report - (continued)find consensus around wh<strong>at</strong> is required tobe competitive.Over <strong>the</strong> term of <strong>the</strong> current agreement<strong>ECAO</strong>’s labour rel<strong>at</strong>ions policy will continueto focus on those markets th<strong>at</strong> are going tolead <strong>the</strong> recovery. One of those markets isutility reconstruction.On <strong>the</strong> less productive side of <strong>the</strong> rel<strong>at</strong>ionshipwith <strong>the</strong> IBEW is <strong>the</strong> re-emergenceof <strong>the</strong> inside/outside jurisdiction deb<strong>at</strong>e.In 2010 we experienced <strong>the</strong> first ever disputeon work for a public utility. Since <strong>the</strong>restructuring of <strong>the</strong> electricity system morethan a decade ago, <strong>the</strong>re has been little contractingout by <strong>the</strong> utilities and <strong>the</strong>y are nowscrambling to c<strong>at</strong>ch up with much neededsystem reinforcement. Today <strong>the</strong> shortageof line workers and <strong>the</strong> mindboggling workprospects are combining to cause inside/outside friction within <strong>the</strong> industry, labourand management. Even contractors whonever considered outside work before arenow fully committed to it.To tackle <strong>the</strong> labour shortage, <strong>the</strong> Line ContractorsStanding Committee has earmarked50 cents per hour for paying out <strong>the</strong> hugetraining costs for powerline apprentices. Inaddition, <strong>ECAO</strong> has committed to press forcompulsory certific<strong>at</strong>ion of <strong>the</strong> power linetrade once <strong>the</strong> College of Trades compulsorycertific<strong>at</strong>ion tribunal is in place.The ETBA has agreed to move <strong>the</strong> inside/outside jurisdictional disputes from <strong>the</strong>Labour Rel<strong>at</strong>ions Board to a medi<strong>at</strong>ion processin <strong>the</strong> hope th<strong>at</strong> we can reach a bindingand lasting resolution to this problemand get on with doing <strong>the</strong> job. Failure todo so will cause an influx of competitionfrom Quebec and o<strong>the</strong>r jurisdictions outsideOntario where utility policies have nurturedra<strong>the</strong>r than hampered growth of utility contractors.We cannot be left behind.If we have learned anything from our experiencesin 2010, resolution of <strong>the</strong> inside/outsideissue must be a top labour rel<strong>at</strong>ionspriority in <strong>the</strong> coming year.Outside of labour rel<strong>at</strong>ions, <strong>the</strong> <strong>ECAO</strong> hasbeen hyperactive on representing <strong>the</strong> industryon a number of issues thrown <strong>at</strong> us by<strong>the</strong> government. Advocacy on behalf of <strong>the</strong>electrical contracting industry has domin<strong>at</strong>edactivities in 2010 and early <strong>2011</strong>.WSIB and Ontario’s safety system have beenprime issues. The <strong>ECAO</strong> Human Resources/WSIB Committee particip<strong>at</strong>ed in both <strong>the</strong>Dean Safety System Review and <strong>the</strong> ArthursWSIB Funding Review. There is a full storyelsewhere in this edition of <strong>the</strong> OntarioElectrical Contractor so I won’t go intodetail here. I simply want to thank ChairmanFred Black and advisor Rob Boswell for<strong>the</strong>ir expert handling of <strong>ECAO</strong>’s represent<strong>at</strong>ions…andwhile I am <strong>at</strong> it to congr<strong>at</strong>ul<strong>at</strong>eRob for his Ontario Bar Associ<strong>at</strong>ion Awardfor excellence in WSIB law.In a surprise move, <strong>the</strong> Ministry of Collegesand Universities opined th<strong>at</strong> <strong>the</strong> electricaltrade regul<strong>at</strong>ions are restricted to electricalwork “inside buildings and structures,”presumably as justific<strong>at</strong>ion th<strong>at</strong> roof topsolar systems are not electrical work. Theunintended consequences of this officialopinion were immedi<strong>at</strong>ely recognized by<strong>the</strong> <strong>ECAO</strong> board as untenable. This begana year-long project led by directors JohnSalmon and Fred Black with <strong>the</strong> legal supportof McCarthy Tétrault to challenge <strong>the</strong>sweeping implic<strong>at</strong>ions of <strong>the</strong> opinion. At <strong>the</strong>time of writing this report it appears th<strong>at</strong> anunderstanding of <strong>the</strong> scope of <strong>the</strong> electricaltrade has been reached, <strong>at</strong> least as far as solaris concerned. The need to upd<strong>at</strong>e <strong>the</strong> electricaltrade regul<strong>at</strong>ion has been highlightedby this fiasco and will become part of <strong>the</strong>HR committee agenda going forward.2010 also saw <strong>the</strong> final resolution of longterm,hard fought issues. Chief among <strong>the</strong>mwere <strong>the</strong> amendments to <strong>the</strong> ConstructionLien Act regarding industrial construction(<strong>the</strong> infamous Kennedy Case) and <strong>the</strong> clarific<strong>at</strong>ionof <strong>the</strong> Distribution Systems Codeto allow energy developers to hire priv<strong>at</strong>econtractors (not utilities) to perform <strong>the</strong>irconnection work.Ontario Electrical Contractor27As is usually <strong>the</strong> case, success leads to fur<strong>the</strong>rwork. I have already commented on <strong>the</strong>utility sector; <strong>the</strong> payment issue is ano<strong>the</strong>rm<strong>at</strong>ter. Kennedy aside, <strong>the</strong>re is a need tofur<strong>the</strong>r improve <strong>the</strong> Lien Act and <strong>ECAO</strong>fully supports <strong>the</strong> Council of OntarioConstruction Associ<strong>at</strong>ions (COCA) in thiscause. Fur<strong>the</strong>rmore, <strong>the</strong>re is a prospect th<strong>at</strong>Ontario may join some American jurisdictionsin cre<strong>at</strong>ing prompt payment legisl<strong>at</strong>ion.<strong>ECAO</strong> is fully engaged in this questalong with COCA and <strong>the</strong> N<strong>at</strong>ional TradeContractors Coalition of Canada (NTCCC).While all of <strong>the</strong>se external issues were beingengaged, <strong>the</strong> regular duties of <strong>the</strong> associ<strong>at</strong>ioncontinued apace. The Public Rel<strong>at</strong>ionsCommittee headed by Jack Gibson maintained<strong>the</strong> high quality of communic<strong>at</strong>ionswith <strong>the</strong> membership through public<strong>at</strong>ionssuch as this and organized one of our bestoffshore conferences ever in Costa Rica.(See <strong>the</strong> article elsewhere in this edition).Brad Walker’s Member Services Committeeexpanded its value-added offerings to<strong>the</strong> membership with <strong>the</strong> addition of onlineclassified and a new bonding facility forsmall government projects. All of this isavailable to members just by clicking on <strong>the</strong><strong>ECAO</strong> website.I know th<strong>at</strong> in this brief synopsis of <strong>the</strong>year th<strong>at</strong> was I will have missed somethingimportant, so please take a few minutes toread <strong>the</strong> balance of this annual report andvisit <strong>the</strong> <strong>ECAO</strong> website to get it all.In closing, I want to thank <strong>the</strong> board of directors,ETBA and all <strong>the</strong> <strong>ECAO</strong> committeesfor <strong>the</strong>ir tireless work and continued supportand - most importantly - <strong>the</strong> <strong>ECAO</strong>membership for recognizing wh<strong>at</strong> we do.


<strong>2011</strong> <strong>ECAO</strong> ANNUAL REPORT2010-<strong>2011</strong>During <strong>the</strong> 12 preceding months <strong>the</strong> <strong>ECAO</strong>has focused efforts to assist its membersthrough a major economic slowdown. Projects,programs, lobby efforts, seminars andtraining initi<strong>at</strong>ives have all been intended tohelp increase our skills, improve our abilitiesto compete, and broaden electrical involvementsso we can expand <strong>the</strong> range of workwe are qualified to do.The board of directors thanks <strong>the</strong> staff teamand member volunteer committees for <strong>the</strong>irhelp in achieving its objectives. The committeestructure and mand<strong>at</strong>es are outlinesin detail on our website www.ecao.org alongwith <strong>the</strong> names and company affili<strong>at</strong>ions ofour volunteers. The <strong>ECAO</strong> committees currentlyinclude:1. Contractor and <strong>Industry</strong> Standards(Codes & Standards and StandardPractices)2. Human Resources Development(including <strong>the</strong> WSIB subcommittee)3. Member Services4. Public Rel<strong>at</strong>ions and Communic<strong>at</strong>ions5. Electrical Trade Bargaining Agency6. Power and Utility SectorWhile not all committees deal with everyissue <strong>the</strong>re is always significant crossoverwhen moving any initi<strong>at</strong>ive through fromconcept to delivery.This year’s annual report summarizes <strong>the</strong>actions of your associ<strong>at</strong>ion over <strong>the</strong> past yearand highlights ongoing and newly establishedprograms and activities.Health, Safety & WSIB• TeksMed’s WSIB Claims Managementcontract test period was extendedthrough to October 31, <strong>2011</strong>. Duringthis period <strong>ECAO</strong> pays for TeksMed serviceson behalf of all its members fromassoci<strong>at</strong>ion reserves.• Currently <strong>the</strong>re are about 100 <strong>ECAO</strong>contractors th<strong>at</strong> have signed up withTeksMed.• The <strong>ECAO</strong> board of directors to evalu<strong>at</strong>e<strong>the</strong> effectiveness of <strong>the</strong> TeksMed serviceprior to October 31, <strong>2011</strong>.• In 2010 <strong>the</strong> <strong>ECAO</strong> WSIB Committeemade submissions to WSIB on Bill119 rel<strong>at</strong>ing to clearance certific<strong>at</strong>es andmand<strong>at</strong>ory coverage of <strong>the</strong> constructionindustry and to <strong>the</strong> Ton Dean Reviewrel<strong>at</strong>ing to <strong>the</strong> comprehensive review ofOntario’s occup<strong>at</strong>ional health and safetysystem which was reflected in Bill 160.• Recommend<strong>at</strong>ions from Tony Dean supportIHSA’s work. The top recommend<strong>at</strong>ionwas to open a separ<strong>at</strong>e preventionorganiz<strong>at</strong>ion th<strong>at</strong> would be housed under<strong>the</strong> Ministry of Labour. The newly cre<strong>at</strong>edhealth and safety organiz<strong>at</strong>ionswould <strong>the</strong>n align with this new organiz<strong>at</strong>ion.• In March <strong>2011</strong>, <strong>the</strong> <strong>ECAO</strong> WSIB Committeeparticip<strong>at</strong>ed in <strong>the</strong> consult<strong>at</strong>ionprocess and made a written submissionto Harry Arthurs regarding funding ofWSIB. The review concentr<strong>at</strong>ed on sixkey issues: funding, premium r<strong>at</strong>es, r<strong>at</strong>egroups, employer incentives and occup<strong>at</strong>ionaldisease claims.“K-Line has decided to register n<strong>at</strong>ionally with TeksMed because <strong>the</strong>y are able to provide uswith a different approach to reporting workplace injuries which contributed to preventing alost-time injury for our company. They are committed to reducing <strong>the</strong> amount of time K-Linespends on WSIB claims management by interacting directly with injured workers and <strong>the</strong> WSIB”– <strong>Jim</strong> <strong>Kellett</strong>, K-Line Maintenance & Construction Ltd.Ontario Electrical Contractor28


<strong>2011</strong> <strong>ECAO</strong> ANNUAL REPORTPolitical Affairs• <strong>ECAO</strong> was successful in getting amendmentsto <strong>the</strong> Construction Lien Actaddressing applic<strong>at</strong>ion of <strong>the</strong> Act toindustrial process construction (e.g., <strong>the</strong>Kennedy case). Culmin<strong>at</strong>ion of five yearsof legal and government rel<strong>at</strong>ions effortsby <strong>ECAO</strong> supported by <strong>the</strong> Council ofOntario Construction Associ<strong>at</strong>ions.• Particip<strong>at</strong>ed with COCA in ConstructionDay <strong>at</strong> Queen’s Park promotingfur<strong>the</strong>r improvements to <strong>the</strong> Act andadoption of prompt payment legisl<strong>at</strong>ion.Kaleidoscope Photography: www.kaleidoscopephotography.comCollege of Trades• In October 2010, <strong>the</strong> College of TradesTransition Board sought input fromstakeholders and potential membersof <strong>the</strong> colleges on <strong>the</strong> applic<strong>at</strong>ion anddecision-making process for r<strong>at</strong>io review.The <strong>ECAO</strong> submission focused on fourproposed criteria ranked in <strong>the</strong> followingpriority order: 1. Health and safetyof workers, <strong>the</strong> public, and <strong>the</strong> environment.2. Quality training. 3. Impact onlabour supply. 4. Economic impact.• In February <strong>2011</strong>, MTCU sought applicantsto <strong>the</strong> College of Trades: board ofgovernors, divisional board and tradeboards. <strong>ECAO</strong> assisted <strong>ECAO</strong> membersin making applic<strong>at</strong>ions to <strong>the</strong> board ofgovernors, divisional board and tradeboards for <strong>the</strong> Electrical Construction &Maintenance Electrician, Industrial Electricianand Powerline Technician.Skills Canada and Ontario Apprenticeship Competitions• The provincial competitions were heldMay 17 to 19, 2010, and <strong>the</strong> n<strong>at</strong>ionalcompetitions were held May 20 to 23,2010.• IBEW Local 120 apprentice Mitch Robertsontook <strong>the</strong> gold medal in <strong>the</strong> provincialsand proceeded to <strong>the</strong> n<strong>at</strong>ionalcompetition where he took bronze.• Over 24,000 visitors were estim<strong>at</strong>ed tohave visited during <strong>the</strong>se events.Joint Electrical Promotion Plan (JEPP)• October 27 to 29, 2010, JEPP held its first str<strong>at</strong>egicplanning session.• The purpose of <strong>the</strong> session was to identify options for refocusing<strong>the</strong> Joint Electrical Promotion Plan (JEPP) and <strong>the</strong> Communic<strong>at</strong>ionsTraining Trust Fund (CTTF) and developing astr<strong>at</strong>egic plan in support of <strong>the</strong> new direction.Ontario Electrical Contractor29


<strong>2011</strong> <strong>ECAO</strong> ANNUAL REPORTCFAE Fire Alarm Instructors <strong>Conference</strong>• Second conference was held in Toronto.• <strong>Conference</strong> included a site visit to MircomGroup in Vaughan.• Full detailed conference report can be referencedin <strong>the</strong> winter <strong>2011</strong> edition of TheOntario Electrical Contractor.N<strong>at</strong>ional Electrical Trade Council (NETCO)• In June 2010 and February <strong>2011</strong>,NETCO particip<strong>at</strong>ed in consult<strong>at</strong>ionswith <strong>the</strong> Canadian Council of Directorsof Apprenticeship (CCDA) aboutstreng<strong>the</strong>ning <strong>the</strong> Red Seal Program inrel<strong>at</strong>ion to <strong>the</strong> Agreement on InternalTrade (AIT).• NETCO published a comprehensiveprimary policy document entitled RedSeal Electrical Trades in Canada: APolicy Framework on N<strong>at</strong>ional Standards,Apprenticeship and Journeyperson SkillsTraining. This policy document wasdistributed to CCDA members acrossCanada.• In April <strong>2011</strong>, represent<strong>at</strong>ives of <strong>the</strong>CCDA’s Stakeholder Rel<strong>at</strong>ions Committeemet with <strong>the</strong> NETCO board todiscuss issues such as trade splinteringand foreign credential recognition arisingfrom <strong>the</strong> consult<strong>at</strong>ions and policy document.• NETCO developed a powerful onlinediagnostic assessment tool to supportsuccess in apprenticeship. After extensivepilot testing with electrical industry partners,such as <strong>the</strong> Toronto Joint ApprenticeshipCouncil, Numeracy Power wasreleased in August 2010.• NETCO has partnered with CSA Standardsto cre<strong>at</strong>e <strong>the</strong> Construction Electrician(NOC 7241) Solar Photovoltaic(PV) Systems Certified Personnel Certific<strong>at</strong>ionProgram. The program isexpected to be available by <strong>the</strong> summerof <strong>2011</strong>.• The NETCO board meeting was heldApril <strong>2011</strong> in Toronto. Staff for MinisterJohn Milloy, Ministry of Training, Collegesand Universities, joined <strong>the</strong> boardfor a briefing on <strong>the</strong> NETCO-CSA PersonnelCertific<strong>at</strong>ion Program.• Inform<strong>at</strong>ion on <strong>the</strong>se and o<strong>the</strong>r initi<strong>at</strong>ivesby NETCO are posted <strong>at</strong> www.ceca.org/netco.Ontario Electrical Contractor30


<strong>2011</strong> <strong>ECAO</strong> ANNUAL REPORTCanadian Electrical Contractors Associ<strong>at</strong>ion (CECA)• Presented seminars in Ontario and British Columbia through<strong>the</strong> N<strong>at</strong>ional Trade Contractors Coalition on <strong>the</strong> Guide to<strong>the</strong> CCA 1 – Standard Subcontract. A webinar series is in <strong>the</strong>works.• Continuing development of <strong>the</strong> Canadian Electrical Install<strong>at</strong>ionsStandards (CEIS), based on <strong>the</strong> NEIS in <strong>the</strong> U.S. Thisproject is being managed for CECA by <strong>the</strong> Canadian StandardsAssoci<strong>at</strong>ion (CSA). The full sl<strong>at</strong>e of 35 standards willbe available before year end.<strong>Industry</strong> <strong>Conference</strong>• 2010 <strong>Conference</strong> and Annual General Meeting in Kingston, June 23 to 27.• <strong>2011</strong> conference held in Costa Rica March 19 to 26. Seminar topics covered included Building Inform<strong>at</strong>ion Modeling, Contract Law and<strong>the</strong> Effect of Overtime on Productivity.• <strong>2011</strong> Annual General Meeting to be held in Toronto June 16.• 2012 conference to be held in Whistler, B.C., June 13 to 17. <strong>ECAO</strong> partnering with ECA British Columbia under <strong>the</strong> CECA umbrella.Ontario Electrical Contractor31


<strong>2011</strong> <strong>ECAO</strong> ANNUAL REPORTPublic<strong>at</strong>ions & Member Communic<strong>at</strong>ions• <strong>ECAO</strong> continues to provide valuableinform<strong>at</strong>ion on <strong>the</strong> <strong>ECAO</strong> website suchas upd<strong>at</strong>es to <strong>the</strong> collective agreement,upcoming events, public<strong>at</strong>ions andresources.• <strong>ECAO</strong> produced several public<strong>at</strong>ionsfor its members, including An Administr<strong>at</strong>iveGuide to <strong>the</strong> Ontario HST forElectrical Contractors, Preventing WorkplaceViolence & Harassment under Bill168 – A Guide for Electrical Contractorsand <strong>the</strong> Contractor’s Guide to WorkplaceSafety and Insurance 2nd Edition.• <strong>ECAO</strong> is exploring <strong>the</strong> use of socialmedia, like Facebook, as a method ofconnecting <strong>the</strong> membership.Member Recognition• 2010 Douglas J.B. Wright Award winnerfor contributions to <strong>the</strong> electrical contractingindustry is George Docherty,Guild Electric Ltd.• 2010 R.H. Carroll Safety Award winnersinclude:o Advantage Electric Thunder Bay Ltd.o Earl Carr Electric Canada Ltd.o K-Line Maintenance and ConstructionLimitedo Panson Electric Contractorso S & T Electrical Contractors Limitedo Su<strong>the</strong>rland-Schultz Ltd.• 2010 educ<strong>at</strong>ional scholarship winners tochildren of <strong>ECAO</strong> members were RobertMurphy and Steven Taggart, both ofHamilton.Ontario Electrical Contractor32


<strong>2011</strong> <strong>ECAO</strong> ANNUAL REPORTElectrical Trade Bargaining Agency• The “joint proposal” no strike/no lockout protocolsuccessfully renegoti<strong>at</strong>ed and utilized in 2010 negoti<strong>at</strong>ionsincluding <strong>the</strong> redesigned post-negoti<strong>at</strong>ionswage adjustment formula (increase of $0.25 May 1,<strong>2011</strong>, and $0.25 May 1, 2012).• ETBA and IBEW-CCO negoti<strong>at</strong>ed a protocol forsolar farm projects dealing with work assignment,trade jurisdiction and temporary help.• ETBA successful <strong>at</strong> <strong>the</strong> Ontario Labour Rel<strong>at</strong>ionsBoard (OLRB) in its argument th<strong>at</strong> <strong>the</strong> “olderemployees” clause (over 50) is contrary to <strong>the</strong>Human Rights Code as it requires employers tomake employment decisions on <strong>the</strong> basis of age.• Inside/outside jurisdiction issue is still ongoingbut, on agreement of <strong>the</strong> ETBA and IBEW-CCO,will now be referred to medi<strong>at</strong>ion.Provincial Licensing of Electrical Contractors• Provincial licensing regul<strong>at</strong>ions are being amended to accommod<strong>at</strong>e high-voltage/line contractors employing power line technicians.• <strong>ECAO</strong> represent<strong>at</strong>ive John Salmon is formally elected as Chair of <strong>the</strong> Electrical Contractor Registr<strong>at</strong>ion Agency (ECRA). <strong>ECAO</strong> represent<strong>at</strong>iveFred Black is also a director. They also both serve on <strong>the</strong> ECRA Master Examining Board.• <strong>ECAO</strong> represent<strong>at</strong>ives on <strong>the</strong> Contractor Advisory Council (CoAC) are Joe Kurpe, John Slamon, Dan Toppazzini and Eryl Roberts.Power & Utility Sector• <strong>ECAO</strong> successful <strong>at</strong> Ontario Energy Board (OEB)in getting amendments to <strong>the</strong> Distribution SystemsCode (DSC) clarifying th<strong>at</strong> work rel<strong>at</strong>ed tonew connections and renewable energy projects areopen to “altern<strong>at</strong>ive bids” as opposed to being amonopoly for Hydro One.• <strong>ECAO</strong> continues to oppose absorption of municipalstreet lighting into <strong>the</strong> utilities.• <strong>ECAO</strong> Line Contractors Standing Committee hascre<strong>at</strong>ed a bursary for power line technician apprentices<strong>at</strong>tending trade school as a means of addressing<strong>the</strong> shortage of qualified line workers.Ontario Electrical Contractor34


HEALTH & SAFETYExpert Advisory Panelon OH&S and WSIB Funding ReviewIn 2010 and <strong>2011</strong>, two significant consult<strong>at</strong>ion processes have takenplace rel<strong>at</strong>ing to occup<strong>at</strong>ional health and safety and workplace safetyand insurance. The <strong>ECAO</strong> fully particip<strong>at</strong>ed in both consult<strong>at</strong>ionsproviding written and oral submissions in each case.In 2010, <strong>the</strong> Ministry of Labour formed an Expert Advisory Panelon Occup<strong>at</strong>ional Health and Safety. The panel was chaired by Mr.Tony Dean. The mand<strong>at</strong>e of <strong>the</strong> panel was to conduct a review ofOntario’s Occup<strong>at</strong>ional Health and Safety (OHS) system and to makerecommend<strong>at</strong>ions to <strong>the</strong> Minister of Labour regarding structural,oper<strong>at</strong>ional and policy improvements to Ontario’s OHS system.In December 2010, <strong>the</strong> panel made 46 key recommend<strong>at</strong>ions, including<strong>the</strong> following:• A new prevention organiz<strong>at</strong>ion should be cre<strong>at</strong>ed within <strong>the</strong>Ministry of Labour, headed by a Chief Prevention Executive andfe<strong>at</strong>uring a multi-stakeholder Prevention Council.• New training standards should be cre<strong>at</strong>ed, implemented andaudited.CASH FOR SCRAPBuyers of Wire, Transformers, Motors,Copper, Aluminum and SteelPick-up anywhere in OntarioLangille’s Scrap and Cores150 Reach Industrial Park, Port Perry, Ontario L9L 1B2Tel: (905) 985-6800 Fax: (905) 985-7993www.scrapandcores.com• Mand<strong>at</strong>ory training requirements should be established for healthand safety represent<strong>at</strong>ives (in addition to those required of certifiedjoint health and safety committee members).• Health and safety training of workers and supervisors shouldbe mand<strong>at</strong>ory.• Mand<strong>at</strong>ory entry-level training should be required for all constructionworkers, including mand<strong>at</strong>ory fall protection training forworkers working <strong>at</strong> heights and additional high-hazard trainingfor specific activities.• The WSIB should review its existing financial incentives, developan accredit<strong>at</strong>ion program, rewards for employers who qualifysuppliers based on health and safety performance, and place lessemphasis on claims costs and frequency in such programs.• Reprisal complaints should be expedited.It is anticip<strong>at</strong>ed th<strong>at</strong> all of <strong>the</strong> panel’s recommend<strong>at</strong>ions will be implementedby <strong>the</strong> Ministry of Labour.In its submissions to <strong>the</strong> panel, <strong>the</strong> <strong>ECAO</strong> argued for clarific<strong>at</strong>ion in<strong>the</strong> roles of <strong>the</strong> Ministry of Labour, <strong>the</strong> WSIB and <strong>the</strong> Health andSafety Associ<strong>at</strong>ions (including <strong>the</strong> CSAO). We argued th<strong>at</strong> preventionshould be <strong>the</strong> mand<strong>at</strong>e of <strong>the</strong> HSAs, not <strong>the</strong> Ministry (who isresponsible for enforcement) or <strong>the</strong> WSIB (who insures workplaceparties against accidents and injuries). We endorsed minimum qualific<strong>at</strong>ionsfor health and safety trainers, safety training standards anduniversal entry-level training, and early educ<strong>at</strong>ion for students in highschool. We highlighted <strong>the</strong> efforts of <strong>the</strong> electrical construction industryin such programs as <strong>the</strong> ESC’s “Just Don’t Ask” campaign. We alsorecommended a single construction worker ID card to demonstr<strong>at</strong>etrade certific<strong>at</strong>ion, WSIB registr<strong>at</strong>ion and safety training certific<strong>at</strong>ion.Moreover, we recommended <strong>the</strong> cre<strong>at</strong>ion of a central training registryto elimin<strong>at</strong>e duplic<strong>at</strong>ion of training from one employer to <strong>the</strong> next for<strong>the</strong> same worker.Ontario Electrical Contractor36


We also recommended th<strong>at</strong> experience r<strong>at</strong>ing systems continue <strong>at</strong> <strong>the</strong>WSIB, but be focused only on insurance principles rel<strong>at</strong>ed to costs. Inaddition to <strong>the</strong>se incentives, we recommended th<strong>at</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r incentives andrecognitions be cre<strong>at</strong>ed for employers who are leaders in OHS and whoregularly exceed minimum standards of safety.In early <strong>2011</strong>, <strong>the</strong> WSIB cre<strong>at</strong>ed a Funding Review. It cre<strong>at</strong>ed anindependent review panel, chaired by Professor Harry Arthurs. TheArthurs review has been actively engaged in expert consult<strong>at</strong>ions andpublic hearings for several weeks. The <strong>ECAO</strong> has provided writtensubmissions and made an oral present<strong>at</strong>ion to <strong>the</strong> Funding Review panelin a public hearing on April 5, <strong>2011</strong>.The primary mand<strong>at</strong>e of <strong>the</strong> Funding Review is to review <strong>the</strong> currentfunding model for <strong>the</strong> insurance fund managed by <strong>the</strong> WSIB. A considerableconcern giving rise to <strong>the</strong> review is <strong>the</strong> significant increase in <strong>the</strong>unfunded liability (<strong>the</strong> portion of future claims costs on existing claimsth<strong>at</strong> are not currently fully funded) to an amount approaching $12 billion.Stakeholder input was requested on six issues:• Funding• Premium r<strong>at</strong>es• R<strong>at</strong>e groups• Employer incentives• Occup<strong>at</strong>ional disease claims• Benefits index<strong>at</strong>ionIn its submissions, <strong>the</strong> <strong>ECAO</strong> recommended th<strong>at</strong> <strong>the</strong> WSIB incrementallymove towards a full funding target (on a 20-year plan), keeping inmind <strong>the</strong> difficulties a sudden increase in premiums would cause for <strong>the</strong>economy. Upon retirement of <strong>the</strong> unfunded liability, <strong>the</strong> <strong>ECAO</strong> recommendedth<strong>at</strong> <strong>the</strong> funding target be increased to 110 per cent, to allowadditional future funding to accommod<strong>at</strong>e fluctu<strong>at</strong>ions in investmentperformance, Income Tax Act changes and o<strong>the</strong>r economic variables.The <strong>ECAO</strong> recommended th<strong>at</strong> premium r<strong>at</strong>es be set each year witha view to <strong>the</strong> performance of a r<strong>at</strong>e group or class as a whole, but alsowith a view to <strong>the</strong> performance of each individual employer withinth<strong>at</strong> r<strong>at</strong>e group. In so setting premium r<strong>at</strong>es, <strong>the</strong> performance of anemployer over a seven to 10 year period should be used. The <strong>ECAO</strong>also encouraged th<strong>at</strong> a retrospective experience model should remainin place in a single, simplified program th<strong>at</strong> applies to all employers,and th<strong>at</strong> would allow incentives for single-year performances.The <strong>ECAO</strong> did not recommend substantial changes to <strong>the</strong> r<strong>at</strong>e groupmodel, but did encourage a modific<strong>at</strong>ion for multi-trade contractorsto allow for classific<strong>at</strong>ion based on trades ra<strong>the</strong>r than based on <strong>the</strong>contract as a whole. This approach, in our view, would allow for morefavourable classific<strong>at</strong>ion of electrical trades when engaged in multitradecontracts. We also recommended th<strong>at</strong> non-licensed electricalworkers should not be included in r<strong>at</strong>e group 704.We recommended th<strong>at</strong> long-l<strong>at</strong>ency occup<strong>at</strong>ional disease costs shouldcontinue to be excluded from experience r<strong>at</strong>ing, but th<strong>at</strong> where <strong>the</strong>disease process was understood <strong>at</strong> <strong>the</strong> time of exposure th<strong>at</strong> costsshould be apportioned to <strong>the</strong> industry class or r<strong>at</strong>e group th<strong>at</strong> issolely linked to <strong>the</strong> onset of <strong>the</strong> disease. For example, silicosis wouldbecome <strong>the</strong> responsibility of <strong>the</strong> mining industry class and not allemployers <strong>at</strong> large.We anticip<strong>at</strong>e th<strong>at</strong> a fur<strong>the</strong>r round of consult<strong>at</strong>ion will proceed l<strong>at</strong>erthis year. A final report from <strong>the</strong> Funding Review is not expecteduntil l<strong>at</strong>e <strong>2011</strong> or early 2012.Rob Boswell is a lawyer and partner with Boswell Chapman ProfessionalCorpor<strong>at</strong>ion, a litig<strong>at</strong>ion firm loc<strong>at</strong>ed in Barrie, Ontario. Since 1996,Rob has represented and advised employers on m<strong>at</strong>ters rel<strong>at</strong>ing toworkplace safety and insurance law and occup<strong>at</strong>ional health and safetylaw. Rob regularly represents employers in <strong>the</strong> construction sector andhas acted as a legal consultant for <strong>the</strong> <strong>ECAO</strong> for several years.Rob is also very active with <strong>the</strong> Ontario Bar Associ<strong>at</strong>ion have twiceserved as <strong>the</strong> chair of <strong>the</strong> Ontario Bar Associ<strong>at</strong>ion’s Workers’ Compens<strong>at</strong>ionSection. <strong>ECAO</strong> is pleased to congr<strong>at</strong>ul<strong>at</strong>e Rob Boswell as this year’swinner of <strong>the</strong> Ron Ellis Award for excellence in workers’ compens<strong>at</strong>ion.Mr. Boswell may be contacted <strong>at</strong> 705-719-2200or rboswell@boswellchapman.com.Those who seek out standby and prime power solutions rely on partners whoare up to speed and ready with ideas.Kohler and Paramount Power Systems are those partners! Whe<strong>the</strong>r we’reproviding a turnkey system to protect your most critical applic<strong>at</strong>ions orthinking through a distinguished and effective solution to a challenge, come toParamount Power and tell us wh<strong>at</strong> you need. We’ll bring it On!Gener<strong>at</strong>ors, Switchgear, Transfer Switches, Custom DesignAuthorized Distributor • 1-866-261-4079www.paramountpower.comOntario Electrical Contractor37


MEASURING PRODUCTIVITYImpact of Overtimeon Electrical LaborProductivity:A Measured Mile Approach By Dr. Awad HannaElectrical contractors are frequently facedwith <strong>the</strong> need to compress or acceler<strong>at</strong>e <strong>the</strong>construction schedule as a result of addedscope, delays and/or a l<strong>at</strong>e start of activities.The most common approach to scheduleacceler<strong>at</strong>ion is <strong>the</strong> use of overtime and/or extended overtime. Extended overtimeoccurs when workers are required to workmore than 40 hours per week for longer thantwo consecutive weeks. Extended overtimecan be implemented using a variety of crewscheduling techniques, including five workdays<strong>at</strong> 10 hours per day per worker – alsoknown as 5–10s – or by using 5-12s, 6-10s,6-12s, 7-10s, or 7-12s. However, researchhas shown th<strong>at</strong> extended overtime resultsin increased f<strong>at</strong>igue, decreased productivity,a gre<strong>at</strong>er risk for injuries or accidents, andincreased absenteeism and turnover. Asa result, extended overtime significantlyincreases <strong>the</strong> cost of construction projects.Past research studies concluded th<strong>at</strong> placingworkers on scheduled overtime reduceslabour productivity. Although several researchefforts have studied <strong>the</strong> effect of overtime onlabour efficiency, <strong>the</strong>se studies have unknownd<strong>at</strong>a sources and were conducted manyyears previously.A recent study commissioned and publishedby Electri Intern<strong>at</strong>ional and authored by ProfessorHanna, President of Hanna ConsultingInc., and Professor of Construction <strong>at</strong> <strong>the</strong>University of Wisconsin-Madison focused on<strong>the</strong> analysis of scheduled and unscheduled(sporadic) overtime on labour productivityusing <strong>the</strong> Measured Mile Method. TheMeasured Mile Method (MMM) is <strong>the</strong> goldstandard of productivity loss measurements.This approach compares <strong>the</strong> unit productivitylevels during unimpeded time (during <strong>the</strong>reference schedule) to those during impactedtime (when using overtime) in order todetermine how significantly <strong>the</strong> project’sproductivity was impacted. The <strong>the</strong>ory isth<strong>at</strong> <strong>the</strong> difference between a contractor’sProductivity110%100%90%80%70%Cummul<strong>at</strong>ive Productivity of 5x10 Scheduley = 0.0042x 2 - 0.0808x + 1.0945R 2 = 0.9687actual inefficient productivity and an identifiednormal productivity is <strong>the</strong> amount ofexcess cost to <strong>the</strong> contractor as a direct resultof labour inefficiencies and loss of productivity.As it is a reliable and widely acceptedmethod, this new study utilizes MMM toform <strong>the</strong> basis of a model to predict andforward price overtime labour inefficiencies.The MMM was successfully used in <strong>the</strong>N<strong>at</strong>kin & Co. v. George A. Fuller Co. (347y = 0.0035x + 0.6818R 2 = 0.636160%0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21WeekFigure 1- 5-10 model and Comparison to 1969 NECA ModelNECA HighNECA AvgNECA LowOntario Electrical Contractor38


F. Supp. 17(W.D. Mo. 1972)) case: <strong>the</strong> courtfound th<strong>at</strong> comparing <strong>the</strong> unit costs during<strong>the</strong> impacted and unimpacted periods was areasonable manner in which to compute <strong>the</strong>damages, and N<strong>at</strong>kin was awarded its lostproductivity damages. Moreover, in ClarkConcrete Contractors, Inc v. General ServicesAdministr<strong>at</strong>ion (GSBA No. 14,340, 99-1BCA (CCH) (1999)), <strong>the</strong> Board permittedOmni (<strong>the</strong> contractor) to recover damagesof more than $1 million for lost productivitybased on <strong>the</strong> measured mile analysis.3. There is a direct correl<strong>at</strong>ion betweenlabour inefficiency and <strong>the</strong> dur<strong>at</strong>ion ofovertime use.4. Despite productivity losses rel<strong>at</strong>ed toovertime, placing an electrical crewon overtime schedule is more efficientthan overmanning.5. The d<strong>at</strong>a collected for this study waslimited to electrical workers for projectsexecuted between 2004 and 2008.6. The measured mile method was used inthis study, which compares periods of timewhen <strong>the</strong> regular 40-hour work week wasutilized to overtime schedules of 50 hoursor more. The measured mile technique isa widely accepted and accur<strong>at</strong>e method ofcapturing labour inefficiency.Use of The New StudyIt is widely and legally recognized th<strong>at</strong> inefficiencyfactors cited in <strong>the</strong> N<strong>at</strong>ional ElectricalContractors Associ<strong>at</strong>ion (NECA) study andThere were two components of this newstudy: qualit<strong>at</strong>ive and quantit<strong>at</strong>ive. Thequalit<strong>at</strong>ive aspect aims to document <strong>the</strong>views of electrical contractors regarding <strong>the</strong>use of overtime and o<strong>the</strong>r schedule compressiontechniques such as overmanning andshiftwork. The quantit<strong>at</strong>ive component dealswith macro and micro analysis of overtime.The macro and micro approaches are usedfor analyzing <strong>the</strong> impact of both sporadic andscheduled overtime. The macro approachis used to analyze projects where no fixedovertime schedule is utilized or mixed workschedules are used throughout a week. Themicro approach is used to analyze projectsth<strong>at</strong> utilize a fixed overtime schedule, such as5x10 or 6x10 throughout a certain numberof weeks. This new study presents <strong>the</strong> resultsof a st<strong>at</strong>istical analysis of productivity d<strong>at</strong>acollected from several projects th<strong>at</strong> used avariety of overtime scheduling techniques.The st<strong>at</strong>istical analysis includes severalproductivity models th<strong>at</strong> can be used toestim<strong>at</strong>e electrical labour inefficiency withina project, given both its scheduled overtimeper week and <strong>the</strong> total successive number ofweeks of overtime. Figure 1 compares <strong>the</strong>results of <strong>the</strong> new and old NECA study on<strong>the</strong> impact of 5x10 overtime schedule onlabour productivity.Additional conclusions and scope highlight<strong>the</strong> findings of this study:1. Placing an electrical crew on scheduledor unscheduled overtime reduces labourproductivity and increases labour costs.Bucket Trucks, Digger Derricks,Stringing Gear, and more...EVERYTHING YOU NEEDTO GET THE JOB DONE• Equipment Loc<strong>at</strong>ions Throughout Canada• N<strong>at</strong>ionwide Service and Repair Network• High Selection of L<strong>at</strong>e Model Units• Immedi<strong>at</strong>e Equipment Availability• Flexible Rent or Rent to Purchase OptionsView Our Full Inventory Onlinewww.nescosales.com2. A gre<strong>at</strong>er number of hours workedbeyond <strong>the</strong> regular 40 hours per week isrel<strong>at</strong>ed to higher productivity losses.Eastern Canada1-866-816-8941Western Canada1-877-513-6848SDP 4100Commercial Equipment Corp. is an authorized distributor for Nesco, LLC.Ontario Electrical Contractor39


MEASURING PRODUCTIVITYo<strong>the</strong>r similar studies should be used as a guide and not as absolutequalific<strong>at</strong>ion of overtime impact. This author believes th<strong>at</strong> <strong>the</strong> bestuse of this study is for “FORWARD PRICING”, i.e., BEFORE <strong>the</strong>work is executed for <strong>the</strong> selected overtime schedule (i.e., 5x10, 6x10,etc.). However, in case of sporadic use of overtime, one st<strong>at</strong>isticalmodel developed in this study, <strong>the</strong> “Macro Model”, was producedusing completed projects with a mix of overtime schedule, and can beused “after-<strong>the</strong>-fact.”This study enhances <strong>the</strong> ability of electrical contractors to rely on publishedscientific studies. It is recommended th<strong>at</strong> forward pricing for achange request be determined before expending cost. The authors ofthis study recommend requesting <strong>the</strong> appropri<strong>at</strong>e change request, asmost construction contracts require electrical contractors to do.To order a copy of <strong>the</strong> new overtime study, contact Lucy Roberts <strong>at</strong>LRoberts@ecao.orgDr. Hanna is a Professor of Civil Engineering <strong>at</strong> <strong>the</strong> University ofWisconsin-Madison. He can be reached <strong>at</strong> 608-263-8903 orhanna@engr.wisc.edu. Dr. Hanna is also an author of a major book ofConstruction Labor Productivity Management & Methods Improvement.For more inform<strong>at</strong>ion about <strong>the</strong> productivity book, see <strong>the</strong> following link• Transformer & Oil Recycling/Removal• Scrap Recycling & Sales• Recycling Programs• Product Destruction• E-Waste Recycling (WEEE)ISO 9001:2008 & ISO 14001:2004 RegisteredServing all of Ontariohttp://www.hanna-consulting.com/Public<strong>at</strong>ions.htmlTelephone/Fax: 905-873-8561 • Toll Free: 1-866-252-864564 Todd Road • Georgetown • Ontario • L7G 4R7www.green-port.comMarc Mittlemanmmittleman@green-port.com• PCB & Non-PCB Site Services• Hazardous/Non-Hazardous Waste Disposal• Cable/Electrical Wire Recycling• Switchgear Recycling• Ballast/Light Fixture RecyclingPeter Wallacepwallace@green-port.comConstruction Labor Productivitiy Managementand Methods ImprovementDr. Awad S. Hanna, University of Wisconsin-MadisonBased on years of research and practical knowledge, ConstructionLabor Productivity Management and Methods Improvement provides<strong>the</strong> tools and inform<strong>at</strong>ion for any contractor to effectivelymanage labor and improve worker productivity. In a laborintensiveindustry such as construction, even small improvementsin productivity can significantly improve company profits.This book provides a guide to cre<strong>at</strong>ing a system of productivity,allowing productivity to be measured and improved.Contents• The Importance of Labor Productivity• Methods for IdentifyingIneffective Work and Lost Time• Earned Value Analysis• Benchmarking Productivity Indic<strong>at</strong>ors• Project Case Study• Preconstruction Planning• Schedule Compression• Best Practices to ImproveConstruction Productivity• Project Management and <strong>the</strong> Role of <strong>Lead</strong>ership• Appendix A: Preconstruction Planning Forms• Appendix B: Employee Evalu<strong>at</strong>ion Forms• Equ<strong>at</strong>ionsMaximize profit by improving productivity and effectively managing<strong>the</strong> risks of construction labor.• Plan and manage more efficient and profitable projects• Predict and resolve labor and productivity problems• Increase productivity on a project and company level• Effectively manage schedule compression and acceler<strong>at</strong>ion• And more!Including in-depth productivity improvement methods andready-to-use forms and charts. Construction Labor ProductivityManagement and Methods Improvement is a practical and indispensableguide to labor productivity.Please send me copy(ies) of Construction Labor ProductivityManagement and Methods Improvement (ISBN: 978-0-9829042-0-6) by Awad S. Hanna <strong>at</strong> $490 a volume. For USA & Canada:Please add $10 for postage and handling per volume.I enclose payment in <strong>the</strong> amount of $o Check o Money Orderby:o Please send me an invoice, including shipping andhandling charges.Name:Address:City/St<strong>at</strong>e/Zip/Country:Send your order to: Dr. Awad Hanna, Hanna Consulting Group,1315 Farwell Drive, Madison, WI 53704T: 608-513-9690, F: 608-246-0614Or order online <strong>at</strong> : www.hanna-consulting.com. Paymentaccepted online via Paypal, Visa, Mastercard, Discover, orAmerican Express.Ontario Electrical Contractor40


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Volume 49 • Number 2Spring <strong>2011</strong>Advertisers Index3M Canada .................................................20www.3m.comAEMC Instruments ....................................15www.aemc.comAinsworth Inc. .............................................4www.ainsworth.comArlington Industries Inc. .....Inside Front Coverwww.airfittings.comCanadian Electrical Raceways Inc. ..........18www.cerinc.caCanadian Forces/N<strong>at</strong>ional Defence ..........19www.forces.caCarleton Electric Ltd. .................................18www.carletonelectric.comCommercial Roll/Electrical Division .........17www.commercialroll.comComstock Canada .......................................6www.comstockcanada.comCooper Wiring Devices ................................6www.cooperwiringdevices.comCopper Wire Stripper .................................21www.copperwirestripper.comE<strong>at</strong>on ............................................................7www.e<strong>at</strong>oncanada.caEckler Ltd. ..................................................12www.eckler.caElectro-Sonic Inc. ................................ 22-23www.e-sonic.comFeder<strong>at</strong>ed Insurance .......Inside Back Coverwww.feder<strong>at</strong>ed.caGlaholt LLP Barristers & Solicitors............11www.glaholt.comGreen-Port Environmental ........................40www.green-port.comIBEW Construction Council of Ontario ........3www.ibewcco.orgIPEX Management Inc. ..............................41www.ipexna.comLangille’s Scrap & Cores ...........................36www.scrapandcores.comLizco Sales Inc. ............................................8www.lizcosales.comM<strong>at</strong>rix Energy Inc. .....................................21www.m<strong>at</strong>rixenergy.caNesco Sales & Rentals ..............................39www.nescosales.comOccup<strong>at</strong>ional Health and Safety ...............42www.ecao.org/links_safety.aspParamount Power Systems Ltd. ................37www.paramountpower.comPeel Scrap Metal Recycling Ltd. ...............16www.peelscrapmetalrecycling.comPort Perry Salvage .....................................21www.portperrysalvage.comR3 & A Limited ...........................................16www.r3alimited.comS & C Electric Canada Ltd. ........................11www.sandc.comSkipwith & Associ<strong>at</strong>es ..............................41www.skipwith.caStanley Tools ................ Outside Back Coverwww.stanleytools.comThe Lyons Group ........................................42www.lyonsgroup.caThomas & Betts .........................................13www.tnb.caTravelers Canada .......................................41www.travelerscanada.caUnited Wire and Cable .................................5www.unitedwc.comW.A. Electric Controls Ltd. .........................42www.waelectric.caDo You RecognizeThese CGE MCCModel Numbers?CR7092CCR2000We Do!We Supply CSA ApprovedFACTORY ORIGINAL:• Renewal Parts• Replacement Plug-in Units• Retrofits• Add-on Sections• New MCC Install<strong>at</strong>ionsWe combine experience along with innov<strong>at</strong>ive approaches toworking, interacting, communic<strong>at</strong>ing and problem solvingwith government and <strong>the</strong> priv<strong>at</strong>e sector in all its forms.Visit our website <strong>at</strong> www.LyonsGroup.caJeffery Lyonsjlyons@lyonsgroup.caSandra Silvassilva@lyonsgroup.caContact yoursafety represent<strong>at</strong>ive:Richard (Rick) MeiBox 2575Sudbury, ON P3A 4S9W.A. Electric Controls Ltd.280 Perry St., Peterborough, ON, K9J 2J4Phone: (705) 742-2688 • Fax: (705) 742-1514Email: waec@waelectric.caWebsite: www.waelectric.caOCCUPATIONALHEALTH & SAFETYPROGRAMTel: (705) 560-8997Fax: (705) 560-9038Cell: (705) 669-7112rmei@symp<strong>at</strong>ico.cawww.ecao.org/links_safety.htmlOntario Electrical Contractor42


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