Weekly Toolbox Talk: Safety in Your Life 2019

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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Four engineering researchers awarded grants to advance national security

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Academy comments on publication of immigration white paper

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Weekly Toolbox Talk: Our Vision - Nobody Gets Hurt

Do you often need to make strange or awkward movements to get your work done? Long reaches, twists, bends and stretches put your shoulders, back and elbows in uncomfortable and unnatural positions. These postures can injure your nerves and even blood vessels that supply your muscle.Merely reaching behind you or above your head can put your body out of alignment. Its normal alignment is the position where shoulders are straight and arms hang down with elbows close to your body. Awkward movement...

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Weekly Toolbox Talk: Material Handling and Hand Safety

Sharp edges and puncture hazardsWhen you are handling metal, remember the sharp rolled edges. Every employee gets relaxed around metal: when you see your co-workers do this, remind them about the sharp edges. Many hand lacerations are caused by carelessness - losing your grip and not wearing gloves (PPE) while handling metal framing, trash and grid. The hazard is there when we are stocking, installing or cleaning up. Always use gloves when handling any kind of metal. Keep in mind the screws...

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Lily’s engineering snowflake Christmas card design wins competition

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Weekly Toolbox Talk: Take Care of Your Feet

 Most people don’t think much about their feet, until a foot begins to hurt. Damage to even one bone, ligament, or muscle in the foot can be very painful and make it difficult or impossible for you to keep on your feet and do your job. Unfortunately, statistics tell us that work related foot injuries are common.Foot injuries can result from: Broken bones caused by heavy falling or rolling objects, like sheetrock dollies Bruises and stubbed toes caused by bumps Puncture wounds from sharp...

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Value of data sharing can only be unlocked when critical engineering challenges addressed

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Construction Career Collaborative Announces New Training Grant

Chuck Gremillion, C3 executive director, announced that Texas Mutual Insurance Company, the state’s leading provider of workers’ compensation insurance, has awarded a $100,000 grant to C3 to help strengthen craft training programs throughout the Houston region.Gremillion said, “We are honored to partner with Texas Mutual and to have their support to provide new career opportunities for future construction craft workers in the Houston region.”The grant funds will support several C3 efforts,...

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Academy calls on engineering business leaders to use data to drive culture change

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Weekly Toolbox Talk: Because We Care

At MAREK we care for our employees. Safety is a major role in everybody’s life and doing the right thing for the right reason is the key to our success. We, as a group of employees, must focus on safety and prevention by practicing problem identification and problem solving. To work at MAREK you must care about safety by paying attention to and avoiding hazards.MAREK takes a lot of effort in making sure each employee has the safest working environment possible. They make sure all the tools are...

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Sir Ralph Robins Medal for Engineering Leadership and the Sir Ralph Robins Scholarship launched

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Academy Research Forum showcases latest engineering research

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Chip[s] Board CEO named UK’s most promising young engineering entrepreneur

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National celebration of engineering held at Westminster Abbey

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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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Africa Prize recognises the continent’s brightest entrepreneurial engineers

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Weekly Toolbox Talk: War on Falls - Suspension Recap, Zero Tolerance

 This zero tolerance means that certain unsafe employee actions will automatically result in suspension from work. So that employees understand what these actions are that will result in suspension, we will recap the WAR ON FALLS safety violations that will result in a minimum two-day suspension.LADDERSStanding on the top or first step of a ladderWalking a ladderStanding on the backside of a portable ladder or standing while facing away from the ladder.Straddling over the top or sitting on...

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Covenant House Executive Sleep Out

On November 15th, I will be sleeping on the street along with more than 80 Houston business leaders. Not only will I be sleeping on the street, but we will be driving around offering support and food for those that often get brushed aside. This event raises awareness, and funds that give our homeless youth some hope.For more information on Covenant House and the upcoming vigil, please visit this link: https://ift.tt/2DiPrDF make a...

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Mike Holland on the Skilled Labor Shortage

The following article was authored by Jim Kollaer and originally published on ConstructionCitizen.com.In the October 2018 issue of Construction Dimensions, the national publication of the Association of the Wall and Ceiling Industry (AWCI), Mike Holland, COO of Houston-based MAREK and one of our authors, was quoted along with a group of national specialty contractors about the causes and possible solutions to the ongoing skilled labor shortages in the industry. The article, titled THE LABOR...

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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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Hinton lecture: more women in engineering will boost businesses

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Engineering the world’s first breath biopsy: meet the 2018 MacRobert Award winners, Owlstone Medical

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Here’s a Solution: Just ID and Tax Undocumented Workers

News of the caravan of migrants coming up from Central America toward the United States has once again put the subject of undocumented immigration front and center just as voters head to the polls across Texas and the nation.President Donald Trump’s hardline stance may drive his base to the polls, but even those folks want a long-term solution — not just rhetoric.For many years, I’ve fought to bring attention to one of the roots of the problem: The breakdown of the employer-employee...

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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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Academy comments on budget allocation for science and innovation

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Stan Marek on E-Verify

The following article was authored by Jim Kollaer and originally published on Contruction Citizen.Recently Stan Marek, CEO of the MAREK, a construction company with headquarters in Houston and branch offices in Atlanta, Austin, DFW, and San Antonio, was interviewed by Andy Uhler for National Public Radio’s Marketplace about the viability of the recently-filed E-Verify System Act of 2018.The Senate bill, S.3386, filed jointly by Sen. Claire McCaskill, Democrat of Missouri, and Sen. Heidi...

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UK’s new polar research ship could herald a new era in British shipbuilding

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Innovators call for more support for the ‘D’ in R&D to increase UK competitiveness

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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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Academy and Lloyd’s Register Foundation announce partnership to advance global engineering safety

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Academy funds leading engineers to tackle industry challenges

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Weekly Toolbox Talk: Slips, Trips, and Falls

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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The Labor Shortage: Nuisance or Catastrophe?

The following is excerpted from an article by Ulf Wolf, which was originally published in Construction Dimensions, a monthly publication by the Association of the Wall and Ceiling Industry. The bad news: Recently, according to the Job Openings and Labor Turnover Survey, the number of open U.S. construction sector jobs came in at 243,000. This widening gap between available positions and skilled workers ready to fill them continues to pour pressure on owners, developers,...

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Golden opportunity: entries open for iconic MacRobert Award in its 50th Anniversary year

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Academy strengthens university-industry collaboration with nine RAEng Industrial Fellowships

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Tinkering unlocks engineering potential for primary school pupils and teachers

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Royal Academy of Engineering projects shortlisted for prestigious Newton Prize

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Weekly Toolbox Talk: Distractions

Accidents occur for many reasons. In most jobsites people tend to look for "things" or “people” to blame when an accident happens, because it's easier than looking for "root causes."Failure to Pre-Plan the Work:There is a lot of talk today about Job Hazard Analysis. JHA's are an effective way to figure out the smartest ways to work safely and effectively. Being hasty in starting a task, or not thinking through the process can put you in harm’s way. Instead, Plan Your Work and then Work Your...

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Weekly Toolbox Talk: Fall Arrest Pre-Use Inspection

ANSI and OSHA do not reference a maximum service life for synthetic fiber products. ANSI and OSHA standards require that the user remove the equipment from service if it has been subject to the forces of arresting a fall. ANSI A10.32-2012 does not specify a 5-year harness and lanyard service life. It states that "fall protection equipment shall be removed from service upon evidence of defects, damage or deterioration; once it has been subjected to impact loading; or upon expiration of the...

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President’s Medal presented to Sir William Wakeham

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Tunnelling pioneer John Bartlett receives the Sir Frank Whittle Medal

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Follow what you love into engineering... at New Scientist Live

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

At 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 you...

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Academy awards eight new research fellowships

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50 engineering leaders become Fellows of the Royal Academy of Engineering

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Engineering team behind revolutionary copper mining technology wins prestigious Academy Award

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50 engineering leaders become Fellows of the Royal Academy of Engineering

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CFC Serves Houston’s East End with Help from Construction Industry Leaders

The following article was authored by Elizabeth McPherson and originally published on Construction Citizen.We have previously written about Community Family Centers (CFC) and how they help primarily low-income families in Houston’s Greater East End.  Last month I attended a Friday-morning agency tour to learn about the programs and services that are offered there, and to observe the Food Fair which on that particular day was being run by volunteers from construction companies McCarthy and...

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Weekly Toolbox Talk: Safe Before the Storm

RAIN CAN RUIN A JOBRain may be good for the farmer, but it can turn the jobsite into a giant mud pie. The rain can ruin materials and supplies and generally make things downright messy. Steel gets slippery, equipment gets stuck, and workers get wet. By covering equipment, materials, tools, supplies and people, rain doesn’t have a chance to do as much damage as it could. One way to eliminate slip- ping hazards is to sweep water out of low areas used as passageways on worksites.WATCH OUT FOR THE...

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Greenhouse gas removal could make the UK carbon neutral by 2050, but immediate action is required

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Academy comments on Degree Apprenticeships Report

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ICE Raids That Target Employers Won't Solve Our Immigration Crisis

The following article was authored by Loren Steffy and originally published in The Dallas Morning News.The curtain is rising once again on Immigration Theater, that political playhouse in which the Trump administration engages in headline-grabbing showmanship rather than actually addressing the issue of illegal immigration.In the latest episode, some 300 federal agents swooped down on a trailer manufacturer in Sumner, detaining 160 suspected unauthorized immigrants but making no criminal...

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Keith McCray: My Life As a Leadman

 

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More young engineers profiled in #ThisIsEngineering campaign to challenge perceptions of profession

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£15,000 prize for engineering entrepreneurs aged 18-25

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As Nearly 80% of Texas Contractors Struggle with Workforce, Industry Leaders Call for Immigration Reform as Part of Comprehensive Plan

The following article was authored by Scott Braddock and originally published on ConstructionCitizen.com.Despite the efforts of Houston and Texas construction leaders to bolster the workforce in a variety of ways, a staggering 78 percent of contractors in this state still say they are struggling to find qualified craft workers needed to keep up with demand. That’s why the AGC of America this week in Houston unveiled a new workforce plan including a renewed call for immigration reform at...

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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...

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How ABC Members Are Working Together to Include Women on the Jobsite

The following article was authored by Harrell, Lauren. Reprinted from BuildHoustonOnline.com, August 21, 2018, a publication of Associated Builders and Contractors of Greater Houston. Copyright 2018. All rights reserved.There are many challenges in the construction industry, but one of the largest is the availability of craft-worker manpower. According to The National Association of Women in Construction, women only comprise nine percent of the total craft-worker workforce, so construction...

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

Notice to Supervisors: Read and prepare for safety meeting. Make sure all employees understand the importance of following our Hazard Analysis and the procedures to work around sprinkler and 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...

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Weekly Toolbox Talk: Material Handling and Hand Safety

Sharp edges and puncture hazardsWhen you are handling metal, remember the sharp rolled edges. Every employee gets relaxed around metal: when you see your co-workers do this, remind them about the sharp edges. Many hand lacerations are caused by carelessness - losing your grip and not wearing gloves (PPE) while handling metal framing, trash and grid. The hazard is there when we are stocking, installing or cleaning up. Always use gloves when handling any kind of metal. Keep in mind the screws...

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Academy supports engineering excellence through nine research fellowships

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Senators Consider Different Perspectives on Expanding Apprenticeship Opportunities in the United States

I recently had the privilege of offering testimony before the United States Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) in Washington, DC related to the expansion of apprenticeship programs designed to create new opportunities. I was testifying on behalf of Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC), a national construction trade organization with 21,000 members, through the lens of my experience with MAREK. I was joined by three others who spoke from alternate...

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Weekly Toolbox Talk: Employee Handbook Part II

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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ABC Calls for Expanding Apprenticeship Opportunities in Congressional Testimony

WASHINGTON, July 26—On behalf of Associated Builders and Contractors, Mike Holland, Chief Operating Officer, MAREK Companies, testified today before the U.S. Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions about the need to modernize and expand apprenticeship opportunities in the United States. In his testimony, Holland outlined the construction industry’s workforce development model and stressed the need to revise the U.S. Department of Labor’s definition of...

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Academy Fellows to be judges for Expo 2020 UK Pavilion designer

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At 2018 Marek Workforce Graduation Dinner, Craft Professionals are Honored as They Build Texas and America

The following was authored by Scott Braddock and originally published on Construction Citizen.Every summer, MAREK celebrates employees with a graduation dinner where craft professionals are honored for reaching various milestones over the last year in the construction firm’s Workforce Development (WFD) Program. The dinner this past week at MAREK headquarters in Houston honored 22 helper trainees and their coaches, 5 mechanic trainees, 25 MAREK Certified Professionals, and 12...

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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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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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Academy hosts symposium to prepare for a warming world

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Upskill Works: Partnering to Build a More Competitive Houston Workforce

The following article was authored by Jim Kollaer and originally published on ConstructionCitizen.com.Upskill, a program of the Greater Houston Partnership (GHP) focused on the development of a competitive workforce in Houston, held a State of Talent Forum at the University Hilton on the University of Houston Campus recently.The program, from the opening panel to the concluding breakout panels, was packed with people and with pertinent information that was revealing in a number of ways. It was...

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Promising SME leaders sought for £10,000 training and development grant

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Weekly Toolbox Talk: War on Falls

The “War on Falls” was declared with only one thing in mind – to prevent injuries by eliminating fall exposures. Zero tolerance and suspensions are merely tools to deal with a violation after it occurs. The ultimate goal is eliminate the exposure in the first place. That can only be accomplished by each and every one of us understanding what is expected. Here are some of the reasons that have been documented through past violations:I just forgotI was just going to be there for a secondIt would...

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Practical action for academics to make engineering education more inclusive

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MAREK Dallas Conducts Novawall Workshop

On June 22, 2018, at the MAREK Dallas/Coppell branch, we launched a new program for an introduction of our services to the Architecture, Designer and General Contractor market.We partnered with Knoll Textiles, offering a ‘Hands-On Workshop’. Stantec Architects, a growing firm in Dallas, displayed interest in learning more about us, hence the ‘workshop' idea.With this opportunity, we shared information about Novawall, Novaspan Stretched Fabric Ceilings, Knoll Textiles, Banquette Seating, Glass...

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Academy welcomes government focus on innovation and entrepreneurship

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Ingenious Public Engagement Grant scheme now open

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Students call for better work experience to inform careers choices

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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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MAREK Earns National Safety Award from Associated Builders and Contractors

Dallas, TX, March 22– MAREK has been named the winner of a National Safety Excellence Award from Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC). MAREK Dallas received the award March 21 during the 28th annual Excellence in Construction® Awards at ABC Convention 2018 in Long Beach, Calif.The National Safety Awards are presented in three major North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code categories: NAICS 236 – Construction of Buildings; NAICS 237 – Heavy and Civil Engineering...

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Five young engineers win top Academy Awards

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Engineering stars win Academy Silver Medals

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Academy steps up programme to address diversity in early career engineering

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Academy secures £20.11 million over next three years for investing in talented researchers

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Manchester’s Ordsall Chord recognised with Academy’s Major Project 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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Ugandan innovation wins the Africa Prize for Engineering Innovation

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Academy Fellows recognised in The Queen’s Birthday Honours 2018

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Academy responds to Horizon Europe proposal

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Britain’s top engineering innovations pitch for support

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Africa Prize finalists use engineering to solve health, energy, education and resource challenges

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Academy President joins the Chinese Academy of Engineering

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Academy President presented with Engineering Professors’ Council’s most prestigious award

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Prince Philip Medal awarded to geothermal energy pioneer

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Academy welcomes Prime Minister’s focus on research and innovation

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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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Academy comments on Building a safer future

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Academy responds to Tier 2 visa rejections

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Weekly Toolbox Talk: Struck By Falling/Flying 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...

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Top bridge designer revisits the Queensferry Crossing to celebrate engineering innovation lectures

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Weekly Toolbox Talk: War on Falls

The “War on Falls” was declared with only one thing in mind – to prevent injuries by eliminating fall exposures. Zero tolerance and suspensions are merely tools to deal with a violation after it occurs. The ultimate goal is eliminate the exposure in the first place. That can only be accomplished by each and every one of us understanding what is expected. Here are some of the reasons that have been documented through past violations:I just forgotI was just going to be there for a secondIt would...

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San Antonio High School Students Explore Industry Trades at the Texas Construction Career Initiative's Construction Career Day

The following article was authored by Michelle Neundorfer and originally published on Construction Citizen.On April 11, United Tool and Fastener had the privilege of attending and presenting at the 6th annual Texas Construction Career Initiative (TCCI) 2018 High School Construction Career Day at the Freeman Coliseum Expo Hall in San Antonio. More than 600 students from at least 32 schools in the greater San Antonio area had the chance to meet with over 50 exhibitors and construction...

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Bridging big data and engineering: Research Chair to explore data centric engineering

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Benefits of rewarding university teaching ability put to the test around the world

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Weekly Toolbox Talk: Fall Protection Equipment and Systems

An injury because of a fall is a major problem in construction. More than 20,000 people are killed every year due to a fall. Only traffic accidents cause more tragedy. Falling hazards on jobsites are grouped into three general categories:Falls on the same level.Falls from an elevated area.Being struck by a falling object.Slipping, tripping or bumping into something usually causes falls on the same level. Slipping could be due to mud on a walkway, oil or grease on the floor, a small piece of...

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Academy supports university-business collaboration in India

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Research Chair to advance the future of digital manufacturing

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Weekly Toolbox Talk: Carelessness Causes Accidents

Note to Supervisors: Read and prepare for meeting by looking over your jobsite and how your personnel are approaching their jobs. Carelessness is not acceptable.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...

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Academy funds global research visionaries to advance emerging technologies

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Auburn University Students Volunteer Construction Skills to Hurricane Harvey Relief Effort [VIDEO]

The following article was authored by Elizabeth McPherson and originally published on ConstructionCitizen.com.A group of college students, faculty, and guests spent their spring break this year travelling to the Houston area from Auburn, Alabama to volunteer on work crews repairing homes damaged during Hurricane Harvey last August.  The group included seven graduate and undergraduate students and two faculty members from the McWhorter School of Building Science which is part of the Auburn...

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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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From the future of shipping to DIY Rovers on Mars: Ingenious Awards for public engagement announced

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Academy response to gender pay gap reporting

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Academy reports on its gender pay gap

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Cutting crime: the role of forensic engineering science

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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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Manchester students take part in #ThisisEngineering campaign

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Robot Orchestra arrives at the Academy

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Weekly Toolbox Talk: Employee Handbook Part III

DISCIPLINARY POLICY All 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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A “Rational Middle” Exists for Immigration Reform

This following editorial originally appeared in the Houston Chronicle.“Deport them all!”“Abolish ICE!”If passion, energy and heated rhetoric could solve our immigration issues, then Congress would have long ago passed a comprehensive reform bill.Instead, as slogans grow more bitter, workable solutions recede. Civil discourse, not inflammatory speech, ultimately propels progress.Thankfully, the Center for Houston's Future, a non-profit, has stepped into the breach with a series of films directed...

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Biomedical engineer wins gold at STEM for Britain

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C3.Is.How. To Train Your Workforce

The following article was authored by Angela Murphy, Associate Director of People Development, Compliance & Operations for Construction Career Collaborative.The industry has been told that the current skilled labor shortages will get worse as the economy improves, a generation of aging skilled workers retires and a new generation enters the industry. Key to that recruitment of a new skilled workforce is a well-defined and executed training program.To assist in training and development of...

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Weekly Toolbox Talk: Working Around Sprinklers or Electrical Areas

Notice to Supervisors: Read and prepare for safety meeting. Make sure all employees understand the importance of following our Hazard Analysis and the procedures to work around sprinkler and 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...

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Improving cybersecurity requires major coordinated effort, say top engineers

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Rational Middle Begins Screenings of Immigration Documentary Series, Prompting Tears and Discussion

The following article was authored by Scott Braddock and originally published on ConstructionCitizen.com.In an event that brought tears to the eyes of some in attendance, the filmmakers behind The Rational Middle Immigration Documentary Series unveiled their newest work to Houstonians Wednesday night at Rice University’s Baker Institute for Public Policy.  The project is produced with the support of the Center for Houston's Future.Pointing to the magnificent setting for the evening’s...

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2018 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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Royal Academy of Engineering launches engineering outreach project in the Welsh Valleys

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Weekly Toolbox Talk: Material Handling Instruction

Mandatory Topic:Notice to Supervisors: Mandatory Demonstration requires a Minimum of 20 minutes to effectively cover topic.You 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 you wear gloves when handling...

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Academy supports engineering excellence with seven new Research Fellowships

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Bloodless malaria testing innovation wins Pitch@Palace Africa 2.0

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Changing the Perception of a Career in the Craft Trades

The following article was authored by Chuck Gremillion, Executive Director of the Construction Career Collaborative.One of the questions that I am often asked when I speak to folks in the commercial construction industry about our work at Construction Career Collaborative is “When is C3 going to begin recruiting kids coming out of high school?”  It is frequently followed by the observation that not everyone is meant for college and surely the young people who choose not to pursue a college...

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Enterprise Hub takes stock of innovation achievements in first five years

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Weekly Toolbox Talk: Employee Handbook Part II

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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€50,000 for UK’s “most promising tech entrepreneur” to teach young children how to play music

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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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Breaking research boundaries to address global mass displacement

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Video: The Rational Middle on Immigration's Crossroads, Rebuilding after Hurricane Harvey

The following post was authored by Scott Braddock and originally published on Construction Citizen.The aftermath of Hurricane Harvey and the struggle of Southeast Texas to recover from the monster storm is front and center in the newest edition of The Rational Middle Immigration documentary series.Filmmaker Gregory Kallenberg and former Houston Chronicle Business Columnist Loren Steffy are tackling the issue of immigration reform one step at a time this new video series that ...

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With 41 Percent of Construction Workforce Retiring by 2031, the Industry Needs to Get Moving with C3

The following article was authored by Scott Braddock and originally published on Construction Citizen.Construction executives from around the Houston area gathered this week to learn more about how they can create “a robust craft training program in your organization and link it to a career path” through an initiative that continues to grow. Those were the words of Chuck Gremillion, Executive Director of the Construction Career Collaborative, as he kicked off an event at the Museum of Fine Arts...

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Engineering and science professional bodies benchmark performance on diversity and inclusion

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Time-Lapse Video: Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral Construction

Roland Mercier recently wrote about MAREK Houston's involvement in the remodel of the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral with General Contractor Satterfield and Pontikes. MAREK's turnkey contract includes framing, sheathing, roof trusses, rough carpentry, and thermal insulation, along with drywall, paint, acoustical plaster, and ceilings.Mercier said of the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral's dome:The dome represents perfection, eternity, and heavens while the square support structure...

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Fighting the Skills Gap

The following article was authored by Ileana Najarro and originally published in the Houston Chronicle.The men in hardhats compacting fake stone, pouring concrete and handling other jobs on the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston work site typically are paired up based on experience levels. Thus, a 20-year construction veteran often finds himself working alongside someone with just weeks under his belt.It's a vivid illustration of what industry leaders say is an ongoing struggle in a city forecasting...

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Successfully Competing for New Talent with Other Industries

The following article was authored by Construction Career Collaborative Executive Director Chuck Gremillion.As anyone in commercial construction will attest, the industry has a labor shortage and a perception problem. The combination of those issues has led to an unsustainable craft workforce. Demand for skilled craft workers is greater than people looking for jobs. Baby Boomers are retiring and the millennial generation has not been attracted to careers in the craft trades to fill the...

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Academy President goes back to school with a silent aircraft

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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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#ThisIsEngineering campaign to tackle critical shortfall of engineering talent holding back

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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.construction workers have a potential...

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The Rational Middle: The Burden of a Broken System

American politics is perhaps as broken as it has ever been when it comes to a number of issues, including the question of what to do about millions of undocumented workers.With more than 11 million unauthorized people living within our borders, rational people believe steadfastly that doing nothing is not an option. But that’s exactly what Washington has accomplished so far. It's time to get past the polarization that's paralyzed our politics, leaving our leaders unable to find middle ground....

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Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral

Foreman Luis Espitia is leading our crew on the remodel of the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral in Houston with General Contractor Satterfield and Pontikes. MAREK's turnkey contract includes framing, sheathing, roof trusses, rough carpentry, thermal insulation along with, drywall, paint, acoustical plaster, and ceilings.The dome represents perfection, eternity, and heavens while the square support structure symbolizes earth. Perfection is what was required from Luis as the staging location...

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Engineering in the spotlight: Government launches the Year of Engineering

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Primary school children are ‘Aiming for Awesome‘ with new RAF-themed education kits

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Weekly Toolbox Talk: War on Falls - Ladder Safety

At MAREK 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 MAREK 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 reasons why employees got hurt using ladders...

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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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Academy appoints new Director of Policy

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Academy Fellows recognised in New Year Honours 2018

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