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Industry News - August, 2020 - Page 2 of 4

  • Alberta Investing In Jobs, Innovation For Natural Gas Sector

    Alberta Investing In Jobs, Innovation For Natural Gas Sector

    Alberta’s government is investing in 20 new projects that will create more than 750 jobs while reducing emissions in the natural gas sector.
    In October 2019, Emissions Reduction Alberta (ERA) launched the Natural Gas Challenge and invited technology developers to share project concepts for innovation opportunities in Alberta’s natural gas industry. Alberta’s government is providing $58 million through ERA to support this opportunity to create jobs in the natural gas sector.
    Funding recipients include a project that uses artificial intelligence to locate and measure methane emissions, and a project to produce renewable natural gas from biogas at an agricultural facility that will be the first of its kind in Alberta.
    The 20 new projects have the potential to reduce a combined one million tonnes of emissions by 2030 – the same as taking about 750,000 cars off Alberta’s roads. These projects will also get Albertans back to work by creating more than 750 new jobs when they are needed most.
    “Investing in innovation and technology gets Albertans back to work, while ensuring the resilience of our responsible natural resource sector. We’re telling the world that Alberta is open for business. As we move forward with Alberta’s Recovery Plan, we will continue to invest and build partnerships that help get our province back on track. Alberta is already a leader when it comes to our environmental footprint, and our ongoing work with Emissions Reduction Alberta will help us become even better. Congratulations to the successful Natural Gas Challenge funding recipients. We look forward to watching these exciting projects take shape,” said Jason Nixon, Minister of Environment and Parks.
    Projects were selected through ERA’s competitive review process. Experts in science, engineering, business development, commercialization, financing, and greenhouse gas quantification reviewed 117 submissions and chose projects based on the strongest potential for success.
    “Unlocking innovation across our natural gas sector will create jobs while helping industry become more efficient. With Alberta’s 300-year supply of affordable natural gas, a technically skilled workforce and world-class environmentally responsible facilities, there is tremendous opportunity for Alberta to compete with international markets. Funding opportunities like this, in partnership with Emissions Reduction Alberta, are critical to attracting investments that will grow Alberta’s economy by reducing upfront costs, while reducing our province’s share of global emissions,” quoted Dale Nally, Associate Minister of Natural Gas and Electricity.
    Government funds ERA through the Technology Innovation and Emissions Reduction (TIER) system. TIER is an improved system to help energy-intensive facilities find innovative ways to reduce emissions and invest in clean technology to stay competitive and save money. Facilities can pay into a TIER Fund, which is used for innovative and cleaner Alberta-based projects like those selected under the Natural Gas Challenge.
    ERA’s funding model requires that every dollar committed to an initiative is matched or exceeded by additional investments, which ensures there is a market demand for the technology. Government’s $58-million investment through ERA has been more than doubled by private and public investment to stimulate the economy, lower emissions and create jobs, leading to a total of $155 million in funding.
    “Investing in the next wave of technological advancements will help Canada’s natural gas industry achieve new efficiencies, reduce costs, and continue to drive world-leading environmental performance,” said Steve MacDonald, CEO, Emissions Reduction Alberta.
    “We are grateful for the ERA’s support to help advance Canadian Natural’s Alternative Fugitive Emissions Management Program. Through working together, results from the pilot will accelerate industry reductions in greenhouse gas emissions through cost-effective methods. These performance improvements play an important role in supporting industry competitiveness and a sustainable industry that meets Canada’s and the world’s long-term energy needs,” stated Joy Romero, vice-president of technology and innovation, Canadian Natural Resources Limited.
    “Hydrogen can play a central role in affordably decarbonizing the production of heat in our homes and businesses, while also supporting economic growth and diversification across our province. The funding received from ERA will enable ATCO to pursue this low-carbon option for our customers, starting with a pilot project in Fort Saskatchewan. This project is an important first step for Alberta, which has all the ingredients to be a leader in the hydrogen economy – including the ability to produce a near zero-emission hydrogen at a lower cost than most jurisdictions in the world,” said George Lidgett, executive vice-president and general manager, Canadian Utilities Inc.
    "ERA is making an instrumental contribution to Ekona’s product development process. ERA’s financial contribution and reporting requirements will enable Ekona to move quicker by leveraging our equity investments and providing additional project oversight, helping to foster even greater focus on key progress milestones. Without ERA’s support, Ekona would not be able to progress to the field trial stage in a time frame commensurate with customer expectation," quoted Chris Reid, chief executive officer, Ekona Power.

    Quick facts
    •    In 2018, Alberta produced almost 70 per cent of the marketable natural gas in Canada.
    •    ERA works with government, industry and innovators to support technologies that reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
    •    Since 2009, ERA has committed $607 million in funds from industrial carbon pricing toward 183 projects worth $4.1 billion that are reducing emissions, keeping industries competitive, and leading to new investment opportunities.
    •    These 183 projects are estimated to deliver cumulative reductions of 34.8 million tonnes of emissions by 2030. 

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    Aug 20, 2020 - 5 years ago

  • New Support Ships For The Royal Canadian Navy

    New Joint Support Ships For The Royal Canadian Navy

    Through Canada’s defence policy, Strong, Secure, Engaged, our government is ensuring the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) is well equipped with the modern ships it needs to support current and future operations while supporting well-paying middle class jobs across Canada.
    Today, Defence Minister Harjit S. Sajjan, joined by the Honourable Johnathan Wilkinson, Member of Parliament for North Vancouver, Terry Beech, Member of Parliament for Burnaby North—Seymour, and John McCarthy, Chief Program Officer of Seaspan Vancouver Shipyards, highlighted the importance of the recent contract award for the full construction of Canada’s two new Joint Support Ships (JSS) to both the RCN and to the Canadian economy. Valued at $2.4 billion (including taxes), this contract supports the ongoing construction of the ship’s early blocks, which began in June 2018, as well as construction of the newly designed blocks for the remainder of the ships.
    By investing the entire value of the contract in to the Canadian economy, work on these ships will create an estimated 1,000 jobs across Canada. The work being done by Seaspan, its hard working employees and workers from companies across Canada will make sure that the RCN is well equipped for the future by being able to provide at-sea replenishment and supporting critical humanitarian and disaster-relief missions, both at home and abroad.
    The first new JSS, the future HMCS Protecteur, is expected to be delivered in 2023, followed by the second JSS, HMCS Preserver, in 2025. This contract award is bringing the RCN one step closer to the arrival of its future fleet of ships. Built through the National Shipbuilding Strategy, the new JSS will replace the RCN’s former Protecteur-class Auxiliary Oiler Replenishment vessels, which were retired from service in 2014. 

    Quotes
    “By investing right here at home, Canadian workers are helping to build the fleet of the future to equip the Royal Canadian Navy and our members in uniform with modern and versatile ships they need for Canada’s important contributions to peace and security at home, and abroad. This work will create about a 1,000 jobs right here in Vancouver and across Canada, supporting local economies from coast to coast. Today, we are one step closer to an exciting new chapter in Canada’s proud naval history,” said The Honourable Harjit S. Sajjan, Minister of National Defence.
    “Through the National Shipbuilding Strategy, we are honouring our commitment to equip the Royal Canadian Navy with the critical equipment they need, while supporting Canadian jobs. The dedicated team at Seaspan has already made good progress on the Joint Support Ships project. This contract award brings us one step closer to delivering these world-class vessels to the Royal Canadian Navy,” stated The Honourable Anita Anand, Minister of Public Services and Procurement.
    “The National Shipbuilding Strategy is generating more jobs and strengthening our domestic shipbuilding industry, while growing Canada’s economy.  As we navigate this unprecedented time, it is reassuring that through this contract the workers at Seaspan and their suppliers will have good opportunities and lasting jobs,” quoted  The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry.
    “I am pleased to see yet another milestone happen this year for our future Joint Support Ships. With these warships, the Royal Canadian Navy will be able to operate with even greater flexibility and endurance. Not only will these ships form part of the core of our Naval Task Groups, they represent a vital and strategic national asset which will enable the Navy to maintain its global reach and staying power,” said Vice-Admiral Art McDonald, Commander of the Royal Canadian Navy.
    “Today’s event honours our Government’s commitment to strengthening our shipbuilding industry, and equipping our sailors with state of the art equipment they need to keep Canadians safe. It will also create good local jobs for people right here in North Vancouver. This is a tangible investment in our community, and I look forward to seeing the ongoing progress and future results of these two new Joint Support Ships,” stated The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, Member of Parliament for North Vancouver.

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    Aug 20, 2020 - 5 years ago

  • Haulin' Heavy

    Henderson Heavy Haul Reaps Enhanced Performance, Fuel Economy and Driver Comfort with Kenworth W990

    Front Page Story: Henderson Heavy Haul Reaps Enhanced Performance, Fuel Economy and Driver Comfort with Kenworth W990.

    When Mark Weisgerber, Henderson Heavy Haul’s operations manager, drove a new Kenworth W990 transporting a 211,000-pound GCW crawler crane to the top of Montana’s Big Sky Resort at 11,100-feet elevation, the performance validated the decision to add more of Kenworth’s newest model.
    “In the heavy-haul business, our greatest concern is overheating during a transport, especially since we operate out of the Rocky Mountains. The transport to Big Sky Resort was the first time we got to see how our new Kenworth W990 would perform when put to the test. We especially were curious to see if the W990’s larger radiator and enhanced cooling package would make a difference,” Weisgerber said.
    “We climbed more than 11,000 vertical feet that day and the truck handled the steep grade with ease. When we reached the top of the mountain, we saw no signs of overheating – in fact, it ran cooler than other trucks in our fleet. I was more than impressed. The Kenworth W990 performed flawlessly that day. From that day on, I knew the W990 would be a great addition to the fleet,” Weisgerber said.
    Henderson Heavy Haul, a transportation company based in Fruita, Colorado, specializes in transporting heavy equipment. But, its mainstay business is hauling oversized components used to construct wind turbines, such as wind towers and wind blades to create wind energy throughout the continental 48 states. The company relies on its fleet of 37 trucks, primarily Kenworth long-hood and vocational trucks, to make deliveries. The fleet includes four Kenworth W990s – one with a 76-inch mid-roof sleeper, two with 40-inch FlatTop sleepers and a day cab – all spec’d with 565 hp engines and 18-speed transmissions. 
    “Since the company started 35 years ago, we’ve run Kenworth trucks. We continued to purchase Kenworths because they’re high quality trucks that have performed well for us over the years,” said Weisgerber. “We’ve always been a fan of the traditional long-hood look, and our drivers like driving them. Plus, they appreciate the creature comforts inside the cabs. For our W990s, we spec’d the cabs with the Limited Edition interior package, which our drivers are loving.”
    The Kenworth W990 Limited Edition interior comes in midnight black with glossy Ravenwood door and dash trim accents. The special interior features rich black leather, embroidered W990 logo, Royal Blue double-stitched diamond door pads, black leather wrapped steering wheel with Royal Blue stitching, and driver and passenger seats with suede charcoal inserts and perforated leather with Royal Blue backing.
    Weisgerber, who on occasion drives locally for Henderson Heavy Haul, has seen key improvements in the Kenworth W990 when compared to other long hoods in the fleet. 
    “Henderson Heavy Haul is located roughly 250 miles from Salt Lake City and Denver, and we provide services in both cities. When needed, I’ll get behind the wheel and make these day trips. From my time driving the W990, two things have really caught my attention – no driver fatigue and enhanced fuel economy,” Weisgerber said.
    “I’ve always thought Kenworth makes a driver-friendly truck, but I’ve noticed that even after driving all day, I feel great. The ride is that smooth,” he said.
    “In addition, the fuel savings helps us out. In a recent trip, I noticed that the W990 consumed 15 less gallons of fuel over the course of a 500-mile trip when directly compared to another truck in our fleet. That trip wasn’t a fluke. We consistently see better fuel economy in our W990s and we’ll save thousands of dollars each year,” Weisgerber said.
    When it comes to providing service for wind energy customers, the company utilizes its 40-inch FlatTop Kenworth W990s to transport wind turbine components from rail stations to its customers. Since ‘wind farms’ are typically located in rural parts of the country, Henderson Heavy Haul assigns drivers to work with a specific customer for up to three months. In this application, drivers will often transfer loads that weigh up to 265,000 pounds GCW and travel up to 250 miles to the customer from the rail station.
    “For our drivers who work with customers long-term, we’ll typically find a hotel for them to stay in,” said Weisgerber. “The W990 with the 40-inch sleeper is a great fit for us in this division because it allows our drivers to store personal belongings or catch up on sleep in-between transports. From an over-the-road standpoint, our drivers have mentioned how well the truck handles and corners, even when pulling a lot of weight.”
    The 76-inch mid-roof Kenworth W990 serves in the company’s long-haul division, which transports heavy equipment as well as wind turbine components that are unable to be delivered closer to a customer location via rail. Drivers typically spend up to three days on the road when making these deliveries.
    “Our Kenworth W990 with the 76-inch sleeper provides a nice combination of driver comforts and performance. The W990 has been a great truck for all our divisions so far, but in the near-future we’ll be looking to add more trucks to our long-haul division,” Weisgerber said.
    Henderson Heavy Haul will soon take delivery of three more 76-inch mid-roof Kenworth W990s, along with one 40-inch FlatTop Kenworth T880, purchased through MHC Kenworth – Grand Junction. The T880 will provide long-term services for wind energy customers.
    According to Weisgerber, the company has worked with Jordan Bogue, new truck salesman with MHC Kenworth – Grand Junction for nearly a decade. Weisgerber says Bogue’s understanding of Henderson Heavy Haul’s operation, industry knowledge and progressive spec’ing ideas are an asset to the company.
    “Jordan is great to work with. He’s really knowledgeable on how to spec our trucks so that they’ll work well in our operation. We place a lot of trust in him to make decisions when it comes to truck orders and he always comes through for us,” Weisgerber said. “When the Kenworth W990 was introduced, Jordan told us we needed to add that truck. At first, we didn’t think we needed to because we were happy with the long hoods in our fleet. But he was persistent. We trusted him and decided to purchase one Kenworth W990 day cab first to see how it would perform. It didn’t take long for us to see the benefits in upgrading to the new long-hood truck, so we’ve continued to add W990s since. We’re glad Jordan turned us to the W990.” 

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    Aug 20, 2020 - 5 years ago

  • Modernizing Alberta’s Wildlife Regulation

    Modernizing Alberta’s Wildlife Regulation

    Alberta’s Wildlife Regulation sets out rules about wildlife use, such as fees, licences, reporting requirements and hunting and trapping activities.
    The changes will give hunters and trappers clarity on rules, while also providing them with more opportunities to get outdoors and do what they love.
    “These updates to the Wildlife Regulation are long overdue and provide countless conservation benefits that we will see for years to come. Hunting has always been a critical wildlife management tool in the province and we are reaffirming that here. As a hunter myself, I am also pleased that these amendments will allow hunters to spend more time outside and less time filing paperwork, in keeping with the Alberta government’s overall efforts to cut red tape,” said Jason Nixon, Minister of Environment and Parks.
    The updated regulation will help improve wildlife conservation, eliminate outdated administrative requirements, reduce conflicts between wildlife and people, and protect important habitats for vulnerable wildlife.
    The changes also provide temporary economic relief to guide-outfitters due to border restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic. Alberta resident hunters will be temporarily allowed to hold hunting licences and participate in guided hunts that are normally designated for non-resident hunters. Hunting is an increasingly popular activity in Alberta, especially as Albertans recreate closer to home. These amendments will further support this activity.
    Hunters and trappers play a key role in supporting wildlife management activities, such as monitoring wildlife populations and wildlife diseases. These changes are yet another example of the important ongoing relationship between hunting and conservation.
    The amendments take effect on Aug. 25 and will be incorporated in this year’s hunting and trapping guides.
    “With COVID-19 fears and the looming uncertainty of the closure of Canada’s borders, 2020 continues to be a devastating year for Alberta’s outfitted hunting industry, so we are extremely thankful to the Government of Alberta for their support of our industry in our time of need. Alberta’s outfitting industry is an important contributor to Alberta’s tourism and the rural economies in remote communities throughout Alberta. The outfitting industry directly employs nearly 3,000 people, generates $116 million in labour income, and contributes over $328 million to Alberta’s economy. We are grateful to the Government of Alberta for their support to help our industry survive this unprecedented season. With these combined initiatives in place, we are optimistic that we can be a strong contributor to the province’s post-COVID economic rejuvenation,” stated Corey Jarvis, president, Alberta Professional Outfitters Society.
    “The streamlining of the regulations will reduce paperwork and increase opportunities for Albertans who want to undertake the challenge of harvesting their own wild game for the family dinner table. Hunters and those who benefit from a hunter’s harvest should be pleased with the changes,” remarked Todd Zimmerling, president and CEO, Alberta Conservation Association.
    “The Alberta Fish and Game Association (AFGA) is encouraged by, and pleased to have been part of the stakeholder committee to assist in the development of many of these amendments to the wildlife regulations. The amendments include a number of positive changes to better address the control and management of chronic wasting disease (CWD), prohibit the use of drones for scouting, and increased clarity and responsiveness to adjust harvest – to name a few. The AFGA is supportive of the numerous amendments that will increase opportunities for Alberta hunters and trappers, while enhancing conservation in required areas,” quoted Brian Dingreville, president, Alberta Fish and Game Association.
    Alberta’s Recovery Plan is a bold, ambitious long-term strategy to build, diversify, and create tens of thousands of jobs now. By building schools, roads and other core infrastructure, we are benefiting our communities. By diversifying our economy and attracting investment with Canada’s most competitive tax environment, we are putting Alberta on a path for a generation of growth. Alberta came together to save lives by flattening the curve and now we must do the same to save livelihoods, grow and thrive.

    Some highlights of the Wildlife Regulation amendments include:
    •    Guide-outfitters will be able to register and report sheep harvests on behalf of their clients, creating a more efficient process for international hunters to register their rams.
    •    Reductions in administrative requirements for hunters, trappers and outfitters, like allowing hunting licences to also be used as an export permit.
    •    The Alberta Professional Outfitters Society will also be able to refund hunting allocation and use fees back to guide-outfitters that have been unable to use them.
    •    Changes to when waterfowl hunts open and the location of wildlife sanctuaries in order to protect vulnerable wildlife when required.
    •    Requiring hunters to report wildlife tracking collars and other devices used to monitor wildlife to ensure biologists can download data to further inform our knowledge of wildlife movements across the province.
    •    Many formerly restricted migratory game bird waterbodies are now open to waterfowl hunting due to increases in waterfowl populations, affording hunters increased access and opportunity to enjoy over-water hunts.
    •    Hunters will be allowed to bring a companion dog (pack dog) along with them in mountain area Wildlife Management Units during an open big game hunting season.
    •    The updated regulation designates Kimiwan Lake as a game bird sanctuary to prevent displacement and disturbance to at-risk trumpeter swans from migratory bird hunting activity.
    •    Penalties of up to $500 for feeding dangerous wildlife, such as wolves, bears, and cougars, in situations other than baiting for hunting.
    •    Removal of the timing restriction for hunters using off-highway vehicles (OHVs) in certain Wildlife Management Units.
    •    Extending seasons in some fur management zones while removing restrictions on sale of fur-bearing animals lawfully trapped. b

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    Aug 20, 2020 - 5 years ago

  • Toronto Pearson Launches Healthy Airport Program Featuring Innovative Partnership With Bluedot

    Toronto Pearson Launches Healthy Airport Program Featuring Innovative Partnership With Bluedot

    The Greater Toronto Airports Authority (GTAA), which operates and maintains Toronto Pearson, recently launched its "Healthy Airport" commitment, a comprehensive program that outlines the steps the airport and its partners are taking to be ready for the new realities of air travel, and to lead the aviation industry in advancing the future of healthy travel corridors.  Today's announcement also includes a strategic partnership with BlueDot, a leader in advanced data analytics and technologies to predict and monitor infectious disease risks.  
    Toronto Pearson's Healthy Airport commitment and health measures are aligned with the global aviation measures established by the International Civil Aviation Authority, International Air Transport Association, and Transport Canada's framework for addressing COVID-19 and the recovery of the aviation sector.  
    "Toronto Pearson is an international leader in the aviation sector, having set the standard for exceptional passenger service among large North American airports for three years in a row," said Deborah Flint, President and CEO of the GTAA.  "As government restrictions on air travel begin to be lifted and flights increase, Toronto Pearson is ready, and we are intent on exceeding international standards.  Everyone who works at Toronto Pearson is dedicated to playing a leadership role in fulfilling the health protection measures and adapting quickly to changes and future standards. We are dedicated each day to providing the pathway for Canadians who are dreaming of the day they can travel again."
    Passengers will experience the airport's five point Healthy Airport commitment, which includes the highest standards for cleaning and hygiene, clear communications and the introduction of innovative technology advancements, including touchless check-in, a disinfection corridor for airport workers, facility monitoring for congestion, autonomous floor cleaning machines and air quality monitors.  Additionally, the GTAA has partnered with BlueDot to monitor and manage risk from COVID-19 and other infectious diseases. The Canadian technology company's world-leading insights platform will power the GTAA's commitment to preparedness and resilience. 
    In addition to measures introduced by the GTAA on June 1 – mandatory masks, limited access to airport facilities, continued enhanced cleaning and hygiene and increased signage for physical distancing – today's Healthy Airport announcement includes the following commitment to passengers and airport workers:
    •    We commit to making passenger and employee health our top priority. 
    •    We commit to working with our partners to set strong, consistent standards for passenger and airport worker health. 
    •    We will deploy multi-layered tools and adjust quickly to changes and current intelligence. 
    •    We will ensure our approach is best in class and aligned with international aviation standards. 
    •    We will explore all innovative and technologically advanced solutions for ensuring the safety of our passengers and employees.
    Many of the 400-plus organizations operating out of Toronto Pearson—including air carriers and transit agencies—are implementing health and cleaning measures, and are working with the GTAA to ensure their employees comply with the airport's new commitment, as well as with requirements established by federal, provincial and municipal health authorities. In addition to conducting airport-wide workforce education sessions, the GTAA has worked with public health officials and a growing number of airport employers to develop a voluntary COVID-19 case log.  Moreover, the GTAA is working with Wipro, a global technology leader, to conduct a pilot of wearable tracing and physical distancing technology for airport workers.  
    Passenger confidence in Canada's travel industry is of the utmost importance, and the Toronto Pearson workforce is dedicated to building public trust that the aviation sector takes health issues and their well-being seriously. 
    As regional and national rules and restrictions ease in the coming weeks and months, Toronto Pearson employers will continue to work with the Government of Canada to assess risk and to encourage a logical and reasonable return of domestic and international travels.
    Quotes:
    "Toronto Pearson's 'Healthy Airport' Initiative demonstrates leadership and a commitment of the airport and its partners to ensure the health and safety of employees and visitors to the airport during the COVID-19 pandemic," Dr. Lawrence Loh, Interim Medical Officer of Health, Region of Peel.
    "The global airport industry is facing unprecedented challenges because of COVID-19. As Toronto Pearson airport is preparing for the 'new normal', Wipro, through our deep domain expertise and experience in implementing digital innovations and technologies, is assisting the airport in bringing the Healthy Airport concept to life. This is enabled through a bouquet of contactless solutions and digital technologies for enhancing the passengers' safety and experience. Working together with the airport stakeholders we strive to safeguard the health and safety of passengers and airport staff."  Sahadev Singh, Vice President & Global Head, Wipro Limited.
    "Smarter airports deliver a safer experience for travellers. And safer travellers contribute to a healthier world. BlueDot is incredibly proud to partner with the GTAA to use advanced data analytics and digital technologies to stay a step ahead of global infectious disease risks." Dr. Kamran Khan, founder and CEO of BlueDot and practicing infectious disease physician.
    "Airport workers want to see the return of travel. The future of our airport community will be shaped by our collective response to this unprecedented crisis. The Toronto Airport Workers' Council has worked closely with the GTAA to develop and re-invest in industry leading health and safety standards. We remain committed to making passenger and workers' health our top priority while ensuring these changes benefit all who fly through and work at our Airport. We look forward to welcoming travellers back into Toronto Pearson, a model for healthy airports everywhere." Steven Tufts, Spokesperson, Toronto Airport Workers' Council. b

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    Aug 20, 2020 - 5 years ago

  • How To Get Started With Drones In Construction

    How To Get Started With Drones In Construction

    Drones are becoming more and more prevalent on the construction site. From land surveying to stockpile measurements to security monitoring, drones can help construction companies accomplish tasks quickly, safely and for less money. But how do you get started with drones on your construction site and, what’s the best strategy for implementation?


    FUNDAMENTALS FOR A SUCCESSFUL DRONE PROGRAM
    When considering drones for your business, there are three fundamentals. First, drones are tightly regulated and the level of regulation is increasing. Drones operate in airspace and airspace is rigorously controlled by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). They dictate what can be flown, where, when, by whom and for what purposes. The development of remote ID is just one example of tighter regulations on the horizon.
    Second, operating a drone for business purposes requires great skill and understanding. A hobbyist is not a professional. “We’ve heard stories where someone had a drone or knew someone who had a drone,” says Joe Fuller, CIO of DroneUp. “They sold their services to a company and the results were completely unacceptable.”
    Third, the deliverables must serve the specific requirements of the customer. “Just having images on a shelf doesn’t do anyone any good,” says Fuller. “The value is in the viewer.” Deliverables must be in a format suited to the application. DXF and JPG/JPEG files are among the common formats, but other less common formats are often better matches to the intended purpose.
    There are countless other considerations. Safety is one. “It can be safer to send out a drone than a person,” says Adrian Assassi, account executive, DroneDeploy. He says this is especially true for inspections, which often take place in an elevated location, a trench or in the presence of noxious substances. Wavelength is another consideration, says Assassi. In addition to visible wavelengths, drones can record thermal wavelengths and other conditions. Drones are being used to assess negative spaces (excavations, trenches, quarries, etc.) and indoor use is expanding. But each of these is application-specific; none replaces the broader fundamentals.

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    Aug 20, 2020 - 5 years ago

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