Weekly Toolbox Talk: Safety in Your Life 2018

MAREK hopes you had a great holiday season with your love ones. Is now time to look at our road ahead and is important to remember that safety is our top priority. We need to remember that we are not getting any younger and that an injury can not only put us out of work, but can also jeopardize your family’s well being.In fact, according to the National Institute of Safety and Health (NIOSH), researchers using U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data found that older workers are more severely...

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Academy President elected to Chinese Academy of Engineering

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Weekly Toolbox Talk: War on Falls - Stilts

PROJECT SAFE STATES:Only those employees who have been certified under the company’s stilt policy will be allowed to use stilts.STILTS POLICY STATES:Employees shall always use a ladder, scaffold, material stack, or wall for support when getting on or off stilts. When mounting stilts, the top leg strap first will be buckled first. When dismounting, the leg strap is unbuckled last. (Wheels on scaffold must be locked)Today we will discuss the simple precautions that when integrated into daily work...

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Construction Leaders Tell Texas Lawmakers More Legal Workers Are Needed, Infrastructure Investment is Key

Texas construction executives told state lawmakers this past week that there is an urgent need for more legal workers in the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey, a storm that worsened an already acute labor shortage along the Gulf Coast. The CEOs of various companies were asked to testify before a special legislative panel studying ways to preserve Texas’ economic edge. The Texas House Select Committee on Economic Competitiveness was created a couple months ago by Speaker Joe Straus,...

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Response to the Interim Independent Review of Building Regulations and Fire Safety

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Build it Forward

MAREK is one of over 30 sponsor companies who believes and invests in providing insight into the construction industry and our future through ACE Mentor. On December 2, MAREK hosted high school students and a multitude of volunteers to Build it Forward. The concept behind the event is to allow students themselves to fundraise for ACE and scholarships while building for local charities.For the sixth annual Build it Forward, students and volunteers assembled bright and early kicking the day off...

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Weekly Toolbox Talk: Cold Weather Safety

As the weather becomes “frightful” during winter months, construction workers who must brave the outdoor conditions face the occupational hazard of exposure to the cold. You need to be especially mindful of the weather, its effects on the body, and proper prevention techniques.Environmental conditionsThe following four environmental conditions are the causes of cold-related stress:Low temperaturesHigh/cool windsDampnessCold water When your body is unable to warm itself, serious cold-related...

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New Academy fellowship set to advance UK intelligence research

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That Part of Illegal We Don’t Understand

The following article was authored by Gregory Kallenberg and Loren Steffy.“What part of illegal don’t you understand?” is a common retort in discussions of what should be done about undocumented workers in industries such as construction. The answer isn’t as clear cut as it seems.Illegal immigration is the result of complex economic, legal and political factors that many Americans don’t understand. They’ve had little reason to. Most native-born citizens have had no contact with the complexities...

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Weekly Toolbox Talk: eCompliance

A good safety culture with a free injury environment is one that has an effective way of communicating, so at Marek we begin looking for a solution to help all of our employees give their feedback, keep a consistent message between the office and the field and allow everyone to access training records, inspections forms, and safety observations with a few simple clicks.Our new safety management platform is here and is called eCompliance. Now we are able to give employees relevant information...

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UTC Interim Report

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Inspiring the next generation of women STEM leaders

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Academy recognised for excellence in Diversity and Inclusion

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MacRobert Award 2018 entries now open

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Academy announces new Chief Executive designate

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Academy responds to government industrial strategy white paper

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Academy recognised for excellence in Diversity and Inclusion

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MacRobert Award 2018 entries now open

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Academy announces new Chief Executive designate

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Report: Day Laborers Exploited in Wake of Hurricane Harvey

The following was authored by Scott Braddock and originally published on Construction Citizen:The fact that President Donald Trump’s administration is cracking down on unauthorized immigrants in the wake of Hurricane Harvey is already making it much harder to rebuild portions of the Gulf Coast. That’s according to an Associated Press report out this week that suggests unauthorized workers are badly needed in the rebuilding effort while simultaneously living with the reality that...

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Weekly Toolbox Talk: Shortcuts

All of us have exposed ourselves to possible injury by taking shortcuts when a few extra seconds would have meant doing something the safe way. We did this as children when we jumped the fence instead of using the gate. We do it today when we cross streets between intersections instead of at corners.Many people show disregard for the fact that minor safety violations may have serious consequences. If any of you are in the habit of taking shortcuts, you must break that habit now! In our line of...

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Academy responds to government industrial strategy white paper

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Academy Research Fellow wins first Newton Prize in Vietnam

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Academy comments on budget commitments

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Weekly Toolbox Talk: War on Falls - Stilts

PROJECT SAFE STATES:Only those employees who have been certified under the company’s stilt policy will be allowed to use stilts.STILTS POLICY STATES:Employees shall always use a ladder, scaffold, material stack, or wall for support when getting on or off stilts. When mounting stilts, the top leg strap first will be buckled first. When dismounting, the leg strap is unbuckled last. (Wheels on scaffold must be locked) Today we will discuss the simple precautions that when integrated into daily...

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Academy welcomes pre-Budget R&D funding boost

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Exceptional talent visa numbers to be doubled

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Academy Welcomes Year of Engineering

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Royal Academy of Engineering recognises businesses led by African entrepreneurial engineers

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Weekly Toolbox Talk: Sprains and Strains

Sprains and strains continue to be one of the highest types of injuries within our company. By following a few simple rules, many of these injuries can be avoided or their severity greatly reduced. Medical evidence has shown that performing warm-up exercises before work and after breaks reduces strain and sprain type injuries.These rules are:Warm up before performing physical taskStretch when starting work, after breaks and lunchGet help if the task requires itPush whenever possible, don’t...

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Creating cultures where all engineers thrive: can the profession rise to the challenge?

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Seven new RAEng/Leverhulme Trust Senior Research Fellows announced

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Finding the Rational Middle on Immigration

We have been working with the Center for Houston’s Future to produce and distribute the two videos below that are on the Rational Middle website. The goal is to present the rational middle of a very polarizing issue. The Center plans to release several other 11-22 minute videos over the next year dealing with topics within the immigration issue. It is their hope that they become a conversation starter for all kinds of groups across our state and country and help define the rational middle of...

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Rational Middle: What is the Path to Sensible Immigration Reform?

The first two episodes of Rational Middle: Immigration, a new web series discussing the challenges and opportunities of fixing the broken immigration system, are now streaming. Watch below: About Rational Middle:During these tumultuous times, immigration has become a hot-button issue. Histrionics have ruled the day and started a firestorm of debate on the issue. This has led to misinformation on both sides, creating unyielding dissent and stasis on the hyper-important immigration issue....

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In conversation with the 2017 MacRobert Award winner: Raspberry Pi

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Weekly Toolbox Talk: Cold Weather Safety

As the weather becomes “frightful” during winter months, construction workers who must brave the outdoor conditions face the occupational hazard of exposure to the cold. You need to be especially mindful of the weather, its effects on the body, and proper prevention techniques.Environmental conditionsThe following four environmental conditions are the causes of cold-related stress:Low temperaturesHigh/cool windsDampnessCold waterWhen your body is unable to warm itself, serious cold-related...

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Celebrating engineering: Royal Academy of Engineering awards and medals open for nominations

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Weekly Toolbox Talk: Safe for the Holidays

The Marek Family of Companies wants to take this opportunity to give thanks to the most important part of our business – YOU. We hope that you and your family have had a safe and healthy year. We hope you can spend these holidays with family and be able to give thanks for what you have.All of us at MAREK can be thankful for another year. We want to take this opportunity to remind you that safety is not just at work, but everywhere. During this time of the year, auto accidents and fatalities...

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First recipients of APEX awards announced

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New ECU research shows women engineers are underrepresented in senior academic posts

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Academy discusses role of research and innovation in growth at party conferences

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Weekly Toolbox Talk: Hand Tool Safety

Of all the equipment placed at our disposal, common hand tools, which we take for granted, are the most useful and the most often abused.A recent review of construction injuries reveals quite a number of minor accidents involving the use of hand tools.  To counteract this trend, it would be wise to review the basic rules governing the use of hand tools.Choose the right tool for the right job.  Use only tools in good condition – no tools with cracked or broken handles, none without...

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Weekly Toolbox Talk: Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCI) are devices designed to prevent accidental electric shock and electrocution by preventing ground faults. They also protect against electrical fires, tool/appliance overheating, and destruction of wire insulation. GFCI’s are required by building code in “wet” locations like kitchens, bathrooms and construction sites.The most common electric shock hazard, ground faults can cause severe electrical shock or electrocution. In normal conditions, electricity...

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Weekly Toolbox Talk: Powder Actuated Tools

Mandatory Topic: Read, Be Prepared and Demonstrate to All EmployeesAttention All Foremen: You will demonstrate a powder-actuated tool to all your employees today. Safe production practices need to be covered in this meeting. You may choose to demonstrate multiple tools with live firing.Powder actuated fastening tools have many things in common with sporting rifles and pistols. All use a load to fire a projectile and all are commonly referred to as “guns.”All powder-actuated tools have safety...

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All sectors of the economy stand to benefit from AI, says Academy

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Royal Academy of Engineering projects shortlisted for prestigious Newton Prize

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Academy welcomes Parker review on diversity on UK company boards

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SEEdash: database launch provides new insights to STEM the loss of prospective engineers

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Enabling more efficient multi-material aircraft: metallurgical excellence focus for Research Chair

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Sealing soil: new research chair aims to build the future using bacteria

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Worker Safety on the Jobsite: Who’s Responsible?

This article was authored by Scott Braddock and originally published on ConstructionCitizen.com.Experts in the construction industry met at a luncheon hosted by the American Subcontractors Association Houston Chapter recently to talk about employer responsibility for worker safety on the jobsite. The panel discussion focused largely on safety education and risk assessment, employer liabilities in situations of co-employment, and employer responsibilities when there’s a filing with...

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Weekly Toolbox Talk: Employee Handbook Part 3

DISCIPLINARY POLICYAll companies, no matter what their business, have certain rules of behavior which must be observed to ensure a productive, safe operation. The Marek Companies are no exception. For the welfare of all of us who work together on a day-to-day basis, certain actions are serious enough to warrant disciplinary procedures. Therefore, infractions such as the ones listed below will result in such action which may be in the form of a verbal warning, written warning, suspension,...

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Machine learning engineer named UK’s most promising young tech entrepreneur

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NPR Tackles "The Open Secret Of Undocumented Construction Labor"

The Texas Standard, a statewide radio program that airs on NPR stations throughout the state, has been doing an in-depth series on the realities faced by undocumented people who live here. As part of the series, reporter Joy Diaz took a look at the plight of undocumented workers in the construction industry. Stan Marek, CEO of MAREK in Houston, said one huge problem is unethical employers often misclassify their workers, allowing them to be paid under the table. Worker...

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Discover engineering inspired by Star Wars at New Scientist Live

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Weekly Toolbox Talk: Silica Dust Awareness

Crystalline silica is a common mineral in the earth's crust, and is found in many types of rock including sand, quartz, and granite. Silica is present in both work and non-work environments, and exposure to crystalline silica dust has long been known to cause a disease called silicosis. When you inhale crystalline silica the lung tissue reacts by developing fibrous tissue around trapped silica particles. This condition of the lung is called silicosis.Due to the extensive use of concrete and...

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Healthcare professionals and engineers partner to test new engineering model for health and social c

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King Richard III, Megalosaurus and Vasco da Gama’s Esmeralda: unveiling history through engineering

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Experts: Harvey, Texas Immigration Law, and End of DACA Create Perfect Storm for Workforce

The folllowing article was authored by Scott Braddock and originally published on Construction Citizen.Immigrant rights activists, experts in the law, and business leaders gathered Wednesday night in Houston to talk about challenges the region faces following the convergence of a state crackdown on “sanctuary cities,” a devastating hurricane, and the impending end of a federal program that allows young undocumented immigrants a chance at employment without fear of deportation.A 90-minute...

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Weekly Toolbox Talk: Employee Handbook Part 2

ACCIDENTSIn the event an employee is involved in an accident or sustains an injury while on the job, they must report it to their supervisor immediately regardless of its severity. First aid supplies are normally maintained at jobsites to take care of certain minor injuries. When medical attention is warranted, the supervisor will assist the employee in getting to proper medical facilities.Where the seriousness of an injury is in question, the supervisor and/or the Company reserve the right to...

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Taylor Centre donor Dr John C Taylor OBE FREng celebrated with postage stamp set

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Weekly Toolbox Talk: Employee Handbook Part 1

ATTENDANCERegular and on-time attendance is essential to the efficient operations of the Company, and is an essential function of every employee’s job. Excessive absenteeism and tardiness are not only inconvenient, they are also costly problems. While it is recognized that occasional illness or personal reasons cause unavoidable absence or tardiness from work, regular on-time attendance is required for continued employment.Employees must call their supervisor or the office prior to 6:30 a.m. to...

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Texas shuns immigrants the moment they're needed most

As the flood waters left behind by Hurricane Harvey begin to recede around our great city, the questions of how to rebuild and who will do the work are top of mind. Following the passage of a ban on "sanctuary cities" in Texas, we were already faced with a quickly depleting workforce. Many construction workers, both documented and undocumented, have begun fleeing our state because they're concerned local police will start rounding up immigrants.With a massive rebuilding effort set to get...

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Weekly Toolbox Talk: Silica Dust Awareness

Crystalline silica is a common mineral in the earth's crust, and is found in many types of rock including sand, quartz, and granite. Silica is present in both work and non-work environments, and exposure to crystalline silica dust has long been known to cause a disease called silicosis. When you inhale crystalline silica the lung tissue reacts by developing fibrous tissue around trapped silica particles. This condition of the lung is called silicosis.Due to the extensive use of concrete and...

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Science and innovation: working with EU partners

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Royal Academy of Engineering calls for culture change to improve inclusion for all engineers

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Academy Research Forum showcases latest engineering research

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50 leaders in engineering elected to Academy Fellowship

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Academy welcomes the funding bodies’ initial decisions on REF 2021

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Weekly Toolbox Talk: Safety After the Hurricane

The MAREK team stands united during this challenging time. We know many of our team members are dealing with damage to homes and vehicles, being temporarily displaced or sup- porting friends and family who have been affected by the storm.Thank you for being here today. We are proud to be part of a city like Houston and a team like MAREK who sticks together. MAREK is establishing a relief fund for employees affected by Harvey and a special team to help connect those in need with community...

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Now you see it: Oxehealth wins prestigious Academy Award

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Weekly Toolbox Talk: Severe Weather

WHY TALK ABOUT THE WEATHER?Actually, we have no control over rain, snow, sleet, wind, lightning or sunshine. But we can control what happens on our job as a result of the elements. Some of the biggest problems on construction jobs are caused by wind and lightning. Wind probably causes the most accidents; lightning can be deadly.WATCH OUT FOR WINDDon't let the wind catch you off guard. I'm not just thinking of tornadoes or hurricanes, but of everyday winds and unexpected gusts. Wind just loves...

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Pre-Fabricated Construction as Art

The following article was written by Jim Kollaer and originally published on Construction Citizen.Hallie Busta over at Construction Dive recently published an article entitled Seeing the Light: How Linbeck gives shape to James Turrell’s luminous art in which she interviews the Houston contractor Linbeck about the skill needed to meet the rigorous demands of artist James Turrell for his light exhibitions.This particular installation was constructed at the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art...

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Craft Professionals Encouraged to take Pride in their Skills at MAREK’s 2017 WFD Graduation [VIDEO]

The following article was authored by Elizabeth McPherson and originally published on Construction Citizen.Each summer, MAREK honors and celebrates with their employees who have completed important training milestones during the previous year.  Their 2017 Workforce Development Graduation was particularly inspiring as 11 Graduating Helpers and their Coaches, 13 Graduating Mechanics, four newly promoted Foremen, four MAREK Certified Professionals, and five WFD Field Leader Champions were...

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Weekly Toolbox Talk: Driving and Texting

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), which enforces worker safety laws, has joined with the Transportation Department, other Labor Department agencies and key associations and organizations to enlist the help and cooperation of businesses – large and small – in a nationwide outreach, education, and enforcement effort to stop the dangerous practice of texting while drivingTexas was one of last four states without a general texting ban behind the wheel. According to the Texas...

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[VIDEO] MAREK Takes On Construction POD Prefabrication

MAREK has taken on a new challenge in conjunction with Hunt Construction Group, Way Engineering, and Walker Engineering: Construction POD Prefabrication. MAREK was contracted to complete framing, drywall, acoustical ceilings, and wall panels for the Methodist Hospital System’s North Campus expansion at the Texas Medical Center. The project consists of an 11-level bed tower and 28,000 square feet of renovations. The general idea of POD construction is to build modular units offsite (and...

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Solving humanitarian crises through crowdsourcing: US student wins engineering podcast competition

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Weekly Toolbox Talk: Silica Dust Awareness

Crystalline silica is a common mineral in the earth's crust, and is found in many types of rock including sand, quartz, and granite. Silica is present in both work and non-work environments, and exposure to crystalline silica dust has long been known to cause a disease called silicosis. When you inhale crystalline silica the lung tissue reacts by developing fibrous tissue around trapped silica particles. This condition of the lung is called silicosis.Due to the extensive use of concrete and...

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C3: Collaborating to Solve Construction’s Workforce Challenges

The following article was written by Chuck Gremillion, the Executive Director of the Construction Career Collaborative (C3).The Construction Career Collaborative, or C3, has grown by leaps and bounds over the last year as a business alliance of owners, contractors and specialty contractors advocating to re-establish a highly-skilled and sustainable craft workforce for the future. We’re doing it by adhering to three principles on C3 projects: Financial security, health and well-being of the...

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Weekly Toolbox Talk: War on Falls - Ladder Safety

At the Marek Family of Companies we take pride on everything we do. Our type of work is often performed at heights and working at heights can be hazardous-falls rank as the chief cause of death on the construction jobsite. That’s why the Marek Family of Companies is always looking for ways to protect their employees and get the work done more efficiently.Accidents involving ladders are usually caused by improper selection, care, or use, rather than design or manufacturing defects.Some specific...

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Craft Professionals Celebrate Career Milestones

The following article was authored by Elizabeth McPherson and originally published on Construction Citizen.On July 12, MAREK held their 2017 Workforce Development Graduation, an annual event where the advancements of MAREK employees are recognized and celebrated with a dinner, remarks from company trainers and executives, and a keynote speaker from an industry leader.  Prior to the ceremony in which each graduating helper, mechanic, and promoted foreman was recognized with their...

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Engineer behind geotechnical revolution receives Academy medal for sustained achievement

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Transforming the world – engineers gather in Washington to tackle global grand challenges

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Weekly Toolbox Talk: Stay Hydrated

WaterThe natural choice for hydration is water. It hydrates better than any other liquid, both before and during work. Water tends to be less expensive and more available than any other drink. You need to drink 4-6 ounces of water for every 15-20 minutes of work. That can add up to a lot of water! Water is the best, but it only helps you if you drink it.Sports DrinksSports drinks don't hydrate better than water, but you are more likely to drink larger volumes, which leads to better hydration....

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Science and engineering leaders pledge improved support for research translation

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Weekly Toolbox Talk: Close Calls/Near Misses are Wake-Up Calls

At the Marek we expect everyone to report unsafe conditions and actions, as stated in PROJECT SAFE. A near miss is always considered an unsafe condition that needs immediate correction.Close calls or near misses are all too common in the workplace. Why talk about incidents that didn’t happen? The following story might make it a little easier to understand a close call: You are walking at your job site.You start to go down some stairs and you lean on the guardrail and it suddenly moves causing...

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MAREK Announces Senior Leadership Team for Houston Commercial Division

MAREK announces the promotion of four leaders to Managing Directors of its Houston commercial construction business. Saied Alavi, George Kissamis, Phil Nevlud and Jorge Rodriguez will serve as the senior management team leading sales and operations for core and tenant drywall, acoustical ceilings, paint, specialty finishes, flooring, fabric panels, shades, bundled projects and special remodel projects.This team of experienced leaders, with company tenure ranging from 20 to 35 years, has led...

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ABC’s STEP Helps Contractors Build Better Safely

The following article was authored by Elizabeth McPherson and originally published on ConstructionCitizen.com. The Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) have developed an amazing tool which enables contractors to build safety programs to ensure that their employees remain safe on their jobsites.  ABC’s STEP program, which stands for Safety Training Evaluation Process, is available free online at the basic levels of Bronze, Silver and Gold; and offers additional levels of...

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Biofuels made from waste are the business, says Academy

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High ethical standards promoted by engineering profession

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Weekly Toolbox Talk: Fighting

In any company, whether differences among members are great or small, functioning as a team is critical to success.In today’s meeting, we want to focus on behaviors that violate these principles in the worst way. We are speaking of verbal and physical confrontations, more commonly known as “having words” and fighting.Our company’s response to fighting is simple: if you get into a fight on the job or while on company property, you will be disciplined. At the very least, all parties involved will...

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Weekly Toolbox Talk: Utility Knife Safety

There’s one hand tool that demands your respect over many others in the workplace, a tool that can cut you to the bone in an instant . . . the utility knife.Many workers use utility knives to cut drywall, ceiling tile, strapping, puncture shrinkwrap and open packaging. But one wrong move and these blades can do serious harm.In fact, nearly 40 percent of all injuries attributed to manual workshop tools in the US involve utility knives.Many accidents involving utility knives occur for the...

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Want to engage people with engineering? Ingenious applications now open

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Prefab PODs Are In Play In Healthcare Construction

The following article was authored by Jim Kollaer and originally published on ConstructionCitizen.com.There are over 50 definitions of the term POD on the net. The definitions range from “seed pods” to “self-contained storage units" brand named PODS, but most definitions relate to a self contained unit of some sort.In the construction world, POD brand storage units are sometimes used to support construction. Recently the use of the term POD has emerged as a self-contained prefabricated...

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Academy funds seven Research Fellows to pursue excellence in engineering research

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National Academies host UK Research and Innovation vision speech

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Five young engineers win Academy Awards

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The coding revolution marches on: Raspberry Pi wins UK’s top engineering innovation prize

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Weekly Toolbox Talk: Heat Stress

Hot weather causes more fatalities than any other weather-related source. Heat waves rarely are given adequate attention but in fact, they claim more lives each year than floods, hurricanes, and tornadoes combined. Heat waves are a silent killer. Heatstroke also affects both genders equally. However, because many men were exposed to heat in the workforce, the annual death rate is 2 times higher in men than in women.In general, the human body cools itself by producing sweat. Sweat evaporating...

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Engineering stars win Academy Silver Medals

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SSE Hydro Arena recognised with Major Project Award

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Academy celebrates International Women in Engineering Day with launch of new video

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Houston’s Craft Workforce: Are We On The Verge Of Insanity?

The following article was originally published on BuildHoustonOnline.Are some of Houston’s leading construction firms crazy or insane in their approaches to attract and train quality entry-level craft workers? Einstein once said the definition of insanity is doing the same thing over again and expecting a different result.S&B Engineers and Constructors, Jacobs, Trio Electric and Marek Bros. are getting very different results because of new and innovative approaches they are using for pre-...

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Academy Fellows recognised in Queen’s Birthday Honours

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Designed to inspire: Roma the Engineer wins top Academy Award

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Weekly Toolbox Talk: Floor Openings

Safely covering a floor opening with a piece of plywood requires more than just laying down the material over the hole, or even nailing it down.Total on the job safety means a total job of eliminating a hazard. Half a job or inadequate or incomplete jobs of covering hole in the floor. Why did it happen?Although originally nailed down with 8d concrete nails, a small piece of plywood over the hole wasn’t large enough to overlay it adequately. Traffic over it sprung the plywood and loosened the...

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Academy brings engineering to life at Cheltenham Science Festival

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Weekly Toolbox Talk: Stay Hydrated

WaterThe natural choice for hydration is water. It hydrates better than any other liquid, both before and during work. Water tends to be less expensive and more available than any other drink. You need to drink 4-6 ounces of water for every 15-20 minutes of work. That can add up to a lot of water! Water is the best, but it only helps you if you drink it.Sports DrinksSports drinks don't hydrate better than water, but you are more likely to drink larger volumes, which leads to better hydration....

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Weekly Toolbox Talk: Heat Stress

Hot weather causes more fatalities than any other weather-related source. Heat waves rarely are given adequate attention but in fact, they claim more lives each year than floods, hurricanes, and tornadoes combined. Heat waves are a silent killer. Heatstroke also affects both genders equally. However, because many men were exposed to heat in the workforce, the annual death rate is 2 times higher in men than in women.In general, the human body cools itself by producing sweat. Sweat evaporating...

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MacRobert Award 2017 finalists announced

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Hitachi join the Queen Elizabeth Prize for Engineering as latest corporate donor

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Senior Research Fellow to extend the reach of ‘More Electric Aircraft’

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Online tutoring innovation wins the Africa Prize for Engineering Innovation

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New report: EU funding in UK research and innovation

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Weekly Toolbox Talk: Material Handling

Mandatory Topic:Notice to Supervisors: Mandatory Demonstration requires a Minimum of 20 minutes to effectively cover topic.Material Handling InstructionYou will need to demonstrate material handling with at least two different sizes of rock: refer to weight/loading information listed below that was obtained from our suppliers. You will need to demonstrate manual handling of studs and track of different gauges and types. Please read and cover the points addressed in this Tool Box Talk.Make sure...

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Program Building Up Workers’ Skills

The following article authored by Dylan Baddour was originally published in the Houston Chronicle. Reprinted with permission.Jaime Ramos worked picking ornamental ferns in Florida until he got ready to start a family. He took a higher-paying construction job, but then found himself frustrated by a transient labor force that learns as it goes.“There are people who’ve been doing this for years and sometimes they don’t know they’re doing something the wrong way,” he said recently. “Just nobody...

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Weekly Toolbox Talk: Trips, Slips, and Falls (Fall Protection)

We have all experienced slipping, tripping, stumbling or falling. Usually the only result is that you feel silly, embarrassed, and perhaps got a scrape or bruise. But falls kill 1,200 people at work a year. They are the biggest cause of accidental death in the workplace. More than 33,000 people are disabled every year from falling down stairs, while many more people receive other injuries like strains, sprains, and fractures.There are three physical factors involved in slips, trips, and falls:...

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Creating a leading nation for engineering innovation – Ian Shott to receive President's Medal

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Five priorities for the next government

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Royal Academy of Engineering pays tribute to Senior Fellow on his retirement

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Working across borders fundamental to UK’s top researchers

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Weekly Toolbox Talk: Web-Tex Scaffold Safety

At the Marek Family of Companies we thrive on having safe equipment. Keep in mind that equipment is only as safe as the people who use it are. We have two sizes of the Web-Tex scaffolds: 6’ and 8’. You should use the smallest size possible to reach your work.Today you will discuss the proper uses for a Web-Tex Scaffold, covering the following points: INSPECT THE WEB-TEX before use and report any unsafe conditions to your supervisor. Individually inspect the each truss, connector pins, and...

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Weekly Toolbox Talk: Extension Cords

Even a simple extension cords needs to be looked after. It’s a shock or fire hazard when deteriorated, worn-out or used improperly.Three-wire cords are for outdoor appliances and electric power tools. The third wire is a ground. Never plug these cords into an ungrounded electrical outlet.Don’t disconnect an extension cord by pulling the cord. Remove it by the plug; otherwise the end frays and loosens.Most industrial purposes require cords specified for either hard usage or extra hard usage. The...

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C3 - Progress by Many Measures

The following article was authored by Chuck Gremillion, Executive Director of the Construction Career Collaborative. There have been occasions during my tenure as C3’s executive director where I have felt as if we were trying to change the world, and in many ways we are – the world of construction. And as most readers of this blog would probably agree, change in the construction industry does not happen quickly, and maybe it shouldn’t. But the Construction Career Collaborative (C3) is...

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Systems not silos: new industrial strategy must deliver on a bold, long-term vision and transcend pa

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House Business & Industry Turns Attention to Worker Misclassification

The following article was authored by Eleanor Dearman and originally published in the Quorum Report:The House Business & Industry Committee heard a bill on worker misclassification Monday evening. During the meeting, Stan Marek, CEO of Marek Brothers Construction,Inc and the Workers Defense Project will join in support of the measure by Rep. Ramon Romero, Jr., D- Fort Worth.  “To me it’s a no brainer,” Marek told Quorum Report...

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Weekly Toolbox Talk: Carelessness Causes Accidents

Project Safe states quite simply:Employee Basic Safety Rules, Safe Work Habits: “Careless disregard for the safety of other employees will not be tolerated and is grounds for immediate termination."“Employees will be expected to regularly inspect and evaluate the work area for hazardous conditions, and to report any changes immediately to the jobsite supervisor or safety advisor.”Who is responsible for safety on the jobsite? Everyone and anyone who works for Marek is responsible for their...

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From sludge to the stage – 17 Ingenious projects to engage the public with the wide world of enginee

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Weekly Toolbox Talk: Slips, Trips and Falls (Fall Prevention)

Note to Supervisors: Read and prepare. Your objective is to point out the dangers of the most common – AND PREVENTABLE – causes of serious accidents. Explain practices to help avoid these types of accidents. You should hold this meeting on the floor so you can move around and point out and identify possible slip, trip and fall hazards.We have all experienced slipping, tripping, stumbling or falling. Usually the only result is that you feel silly, embarrassed, and perhaps got a scrape or bruise...

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Equality Challenge Unit survey reveals STEMM academics' experiences of gender equality

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Hard drives of the future: Research Chair to develop new materials enabling advanced data storage

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New manufacturing methods land engineer materials prize

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Academy President gives the inaugural Sir Richard Olver Engineering Lecture

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Learning to be an Engineer boosts aspirations in all learners

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Academies joint statement: higher education, research and innovation after triggering Article 50

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Uff review of engineering profession published

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Great engineering can solve global challenges, but “must make economic sense” - Rolls-Royce CEO

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Weekly Toolbox Talk: Tools and Equipment

Tools and equipment include anything from ladders, scaffolds, utility knifes, extension cords, hammer, etc. They seem simple, but tools and equipment can be hazardous on the jobsite or anywhere they are being use. Their greatest hazards are misuse and improper maintenance.Therefore, the Marek Family of Companies provides the necessary equipment to get the work done safely. Do not bring any personal equipment such as extension cords, ladders, scaffold, and powder-actuated tools to the jobsite....

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Economic Outlook: A Mixture of Clouds and Sunshine

The following article was authored by Scott Braddock and originally published on Construction Citizen.Leaders in the commercial construction industry in Houston have a lot to be thankful for despite a state and global economy that is struggling in many ways. Houston – along with the rest of Texas – has been hit hard by the downturn in energy but the economy here is much more diversified than it was during previous oil busts. Improvements in sectors like health care and real estate have helped...

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BIM – Fact or Whim?

In this article, Construction Citizen learns more about Building Information Modeling from Marek BIM Specialists, Paul Godwin and Hector Gonzalez. This article was authored by Jim Kollaer.Building Information Modeling or BIM has been around the architectural profession for several decades, but it is just now hitting the offices and projects in the construction industry as new delivery and contracting methods are arriving on the scene.Those new delivery methods and the emergence of virtual...

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Young Engineer of the Year pitches questions to top politicians and policymakers in Parliament

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Weekly Toolbox Talk: Struck By Falling/Moving Objects

You are at risk from falling objects when you are beneath equipment, scaffolds, etc., or where overhead work is being performed. There is a danger from flying objects when power tools, or activities like pushing, pulling, or prying, may cause objects to become airborne. Injuries can range from minor abrasions to concussions, blindness, or death.How to Avoid Hazards?Wear hardhats.Stack materials to prevent sliding, falling, or collapse.Use protective measures such as toe boards, barricades and...

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Enterprise Hub welcomes its latest entrepreneurial engineers

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Flight of the future – new Research Chair developing aerodynamic skin inspired by nature

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Africa Prize 2017 contenders take part in special Pitch@Palace event

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Framing Tomorrow’s Future

On March 2nd, 2017, our Marek WFD team was given the opportunity to coach and mentor the students of the Booker T. Washington High School in a Framing and Drywall clinic. In this clinic, we were able to show over 40 Sophomores, Juniors and Seniors the best practices our company uses to be the best Drywall Contractor in Houston.The students showed curiosity and a desire to learn about Marek and the careers they could make with us.We would like to thank the Booker T. High School staff for making...

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Managing IP and technology transfer - Academy welcomes Select Committee report

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Weekly Toolbox Talk: Wear Eye Protection Properly

We have talked about eye protection many times in the past. There is no question how fragile our eyes are and how important it is to protect them. We all know when to wear eye protection on the job, but today we want to talk about other eye injuries that occur and how to prevent them. The majority of eye injuries do not occur because we failed to wear safety glasses. In fact, many eye injuries occur when safety glasses are being used. Today, we want to look at different ways eye injuries occur...

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Trained to Win

The following article was authored by Mark L. Johnson and originally published in AWCI's Construction Dimensions magazine.How do you ensure workers sharpen their skill sets? It’s a problem common in regions lacking unions and their great training programs. Most open shops can’t afford to develop craft training on their own. It’s time-consuming. It’s expensive.So, how can it get done?One idea comes from Houston. The Construction Career Collaborative (C3) has several high-profile projects,...

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Academy welcomes investment in research, innovation, and skills in 2017 Budget

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Weekly Toolbox Talk: Self-Propelled Elevating Work Platforms Aerial Lifts

Note to Supervisors: Read and prepare. Your objective is to demonstrate and prepare a scissor lift for the meeting to identify the hazards of an aerial lift. You have to make sure your employees are trained and aware of any hazards before they can use an aerial lift.The US Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that more than 25 construction workers die each year using aerial lifts. Approximately 70 percent involve boom lifts such as bucket trucks, while 25 percent of the deaths involve scissor...

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Weekly Toolbox Talk: War on Falls - How to Report an Accident

How long you work for us is based on how you safely perform your job and meet the production expectations of your supervisor.Every Front Line Supervisor is responsible for timely reporting of all work-related injuries, accidents and fall exposures. To properly carry out his duties, today we are reviewing with all employees, the responsibilities of supervisors and employees to report accidents.The first and primary responsibility for accident reporting falls to the employee. If you are involved...

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Getting to the Root of the Immigration Challenge

The Houston Chronicle published this article in the last few days about our undocumented workforce, primarily in the construction industry, and it deserves an immediate response.The author laid it out very well. The undocumented workforce is and has been providing cheap labor for over three decades and they would be sorely missed if deportations continue without an immigration reform bill.But there seems to be a misunderstanding about the root of the problem. It’s not just that so many are in...

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Royal Academy of Engineering responds to government amendments to Higher Education and Research Bill

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Engineering profession invites views on industrial strategy

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Weekly Toolbox Talk: Fighting

,p>In any company, whether differences among members are great or small, functioning as a team is critical to success. In today’s meeting, we want to focus on behaviors that violate these principles in the worst way. We are speaking of verbal and physical confrontations, more commonly known as "having words” and fighting. Our company’s response to fighting is simple: if you get into a fight on the job or while on company property, you will be disciplined. At the very least, all parties...

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Academy to partner with China and America for third Global Grand Challenges Summit

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Trump's Immigration Actions Underscore Need for Reform

President Trump's hastily arranged ban on foreigners traveling to the United States from select countries sparked protests, invited a court fight, and helped make the case for large-scale immigration reform - even if that last result was not a consequence he intended.During the campaign and in defending his most recent immigration actions, Trump repeatedly has made the argument that we need to know who is here and what their intentions are toward the United States. On that, he could not be more...

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A Look Into The Future

The construction industry today more than ever is an industry that focuses on the horizon, and the 2017 AIA/TEXO Economic Outlook Forum in Dallas was just another example. This annual event provides both architects and contractors the opportunity to hear from nationally renowned economists such as Anirban Basu as well as leading developers who share their outlook on national and local economic forecasts.Marek, as this year’s networking sponsor, wanted to provide more than refreshments as a...

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Weekly Toolbox Talk: Absenteeism and Safety - How Not Being There Affects Everyone

Bob NoPay has a problem that affects a lot of employees; he is speaking to his Production Manager on Friday about a short check. When all the facts are reviewed, Bob finds out that his attendance is the problem, not a clerical error from his foreman or payroll.Absenteeism impacts Marek in many ways. Your foreman and Production Manager can explain the economic impact of lost production or making the customer angry because we were unable to man a job. But let’s look at the safety issue of how “...

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Nationwide competition launched to find the future stars of UK engineering

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Weekly Toolbox Talk: Material Handling and Hand Safety

Project Safe new policy states:GLOVES: Employees will wear gloves any time they are handling any metal material including but not limited to, studs, track, ceiling grid, corner bead or any other sharp-edged or pointed material that creates an exposure for cuts or puncture wounds. In addition, gloves will be required anytime an employee is handling or disposing of trash or performing any kind of hot work such as welding, cutting with a torch, etc.THIS POLICY APPLIES TO ALL TRADES The main hand...

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Taylor Centre opens at Royal Academy of Engineering to accelerate the innovations of tomorrow

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Construction Executives Weigh in on Issues at the Texas Capitol

The following article was authored by Scott Braddock and originally published in ConstructionCitizen.com. Through their various trade associations, construction executives from all over Texas are letting state lawmakers know what they think about issues that impact the industry. The Texas Construction Association, the Associated Builders and Contractors of Texas, and other groups have compiled lists of reforms and proposed changes to state laws that they hope will be enacted...

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2017 Marek Scholarship Application

John L., Bill, & Ralph Marek founded the Marek Family of Companies with a strong commitment to its employees and their families. The Marek brothers' tradition of developing and nurturing its employees provides a unique opportunity for individuals looking for a career in the construction industry. For that reason, the Marek Scholarship was established.Rules and RequirementsA. EligibilityApplicant must enroll in a college, university, or post-secondary institution during the Fall semester of...

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Dame Ann Dowling welcomes appointment of first UKRI chief executive

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New online video series to inspire and raise awareness of LGBT engineers

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Weekly Toolbox Talk: Hazard Analysis - Working Around Sprinklers or Electrical Areas

Electricity has long been recognized as a serious workplace hazard, exposing employees to such dangers as electrical shock, electrocution, fires and explosions. However when we talk about fires, is also important to mention that sprinkler systems are installed in projects to prevent fire breakouts inside buildings, but when these lines with high-pressure water are broken, the sprinkler lines can also turn into catastrophic damage for property and equipment.Therefore we have developed the...

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Queen Elizabeth Prize for Engineering awarded to the creators of digital imaging sensors

QEPrize winners (l-r) Nobukashu Teranishi, George Smith, Michael Tompsett and Eric Fossum

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Labor Shortage Could Force Trump’s Hand on Legal Status for Thousands

The following article was authored by Scott Braddock and originally published in ConstructionCitizen.com. Braddock discusses a recent Bloomberg article where Marek CEO Stan Marek was interviewed.President Donald Trump's proposed border wall isn't just highly controversial. Now that he’s been elected and has begun the process of fulfilling campaign promises, it is also becoming more apparent the project is a logistical nightmare for a variety of reasons, not the least of which is a lack of...

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Weekly Toolbox Talk: Employee Handbook Part 3

DISCIPLINARY POLICYAll companies, no matter what their business, have certain rules of behavior which must be observed to ensure a productive, safe operation. The Marek Companies are no exception. For the welfare of all of us who work together on a day-to-day basis, certain actions are serious enough to warrant disciplinary procedures. Therefore, infractions such as the ones listed below will result in such action which may be in the form of a verbal warning, written warning, suspension,...

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There is Life Out There on the Workforce Frontier

It is always gratifying to witness a group of construction leaders gathering to discuss the state of our workforce and what might be done if we acted in concert.I experienced that recently in Atlanta, Georgia at a meeting of the Construction Industry Employer's Roundtable. As a guest of MAREK and MEMCO Atlanta, I joined approximately 12 construction trade associations represented by about 20 executives, along with a few contractors and specialty contractors, who were recognizing the one-year...

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Industrial strategy: Academy welcomes proposals that will benefit the whole country

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Weekly Toolbox Talk: Employee Handbook Part 2

ACCIDENTSIn the event an employee is involved in an accident or sustains an injury while on the job, they must report it to their supervisor immediately regardless of its severity. First aid supplies are normally maintained at jobsites to take care of certain minor injuries. When medical attention is warranted, the supervisor will assist the employee in getting to proper medical facilities.Where the seriousness of an injury is in question, the supervisor and/or the Company reserve the right to...

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Academy welcomes clarity on principles for Brexit

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Stan Marek on Fox News Channel: Trump Can be Both Smart and Tough on Immigration

The following article was authored by Scott Braddock and originally published in ConstructionCitizen.com.During a nationally televised report on Fox News Channel, a prominent Texas construction executive said President-elect Donald Trump has a chance to be both tough and smart on border security and immigration.Stan Marek, President and CEO of the Marek Family of Companies, said the President-elect needs to enact immigration reform that identifies and taxes those who are illegally in the...

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The Year in Review: 2016

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Weekly Toolbox Talk: Employee Handbook Part 1

ATTENDANCERegular and on-time attendance is essential to the efficient operations of the Company, and is an essential function of every employee’s job. Excessive absenteeism and tardiness are not only inconvenient, they are also costly problems. While it is recognized that occasional illness or personal reasons cause unavoidable absence or tardiness from work, regular on-time attendance is required for continued employment. Employees must call their supervisor or the office prior to 6:30 a.m....

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Weekly Toolbox Talk: The Beginning of 2017

Marek hopes you had a great holiday season with your love ones. Is now time to look at our road ahead and is important to remember that safety is our top priority. We need to remember that we are not getting any younger and that an injury can not only put us out of work, but can also jeopardize your family’s well being.In fact, according to the National Institute of Safety and Health (NIOSH), researchers using U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data found that older workers are more severely...

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New Year’s Honours 2017 - 13 Academy Fellows recognised

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