U.S. POSTAGE STANDARD PRESORTED 2013 imp.pdf · Contractors (UAC) Chairman Robert Melko (who also...

PRESORTEDSTANDARD

U.S. POSTAGEPAID

Springfield, ILPermit No. 137

OFFICERS

POSTMASTER: Please Forward Change of

Address Notice on Form 3578 and Copies

Returned Label Form 3579

To: Illinois PHCC

821 South Grand Avenue West

Springfield, Illinois 62704

Telephone (217) 522-7219

BEV @ ILPHCC.COM

WWW.ILPHCC.COM

EDITORIAL AND EXECUTIVE OFFICES

821 South Grand Avenue WestSpringfield, Illinois 62704Telephone: (217) 522-7219

FAX: (217) 522-43151(800) 795-PHCC

The Illinois Master Plumber published

monthly, is the official publication of the

Illinois Plumbing-Heating-Cooling

Contractors Association, only insofar as

notices, bulletins, and reports are concerned.

Editorial and personalized news stories

reflect the opinions of the writers, and not

necessarily that of the Association. Neither

the Association nor this magazine accepts

responsibility for statements or claims made

by advertisers for their products or services.

Contents

President’s Thoughts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Illinois Master Plumber Wins Awards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Calendar of Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Plumbing Contractor Registration Renewal Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Visit the New ILPHCC.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

What’s Wrong with this Picture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

UAC Hosts 2013 Unity Conference . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

2013-14 Continuing Education Application . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Legislative Update . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Get Your Business Ready For Any Kiind of Disaster at

Free National Preparedness Month Webinar Series . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Limited Time Offer: FREE Mercury Thermostat Collection Bin. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Treat Them Like Mushrooms at Your Own Risk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Tool Box Talks: Safety with Nonpowered Hand Tools. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Flader Plumbing Featured on DIY Kitchen Crashers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Illinois PHCC Rennion June 12-14, 2014. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

PHCC: 2013 CONNECT Las Vegas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

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Federated Insurance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Jim Murray . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

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Liberty Pumps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

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Torvac . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

T & S Brass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

Zoeller . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

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IllInoIs Master PluMber, sePteMber 2013 3

Volume 99, No. 9 September 2013

PresidentBill Todd

Murphysboro

President-ElectSteve Jany

Chester

TreasurerBrian RichDeer Creek

SecretaryJim Stewart

Cary

President EmeritusTammy Rich Stimson

Deer Creek

Executive DirectorBeverly Potts

Associate DirectorShelly Lott

TRADES COUNCILUNIONLABEL

CENTRAL ILLINOIS2®

4 IllInoIs Master PluMber, sePteMber 2013

President’sthoughts

by William “Bill” ToddIllinois PHCC President

When I started thinking about why education is so important, I remembered my school years, the foundation years of everyone’s education. I reminiscenced.I remembered my teachers, my school subjects, studying and the fun. While we are sending our kids back to school it’s ever so important that we too understand that our education doesn’t cease upon graduating high school or even college.Self-learning begins at a point where institutional education ends.

The plumbing product industry is expected to see an enormous growth within the next few years. A recent report revealed that the industry is expected to grow by more than 6 percent annually for the next several years, and increase to nearly $80 billion by 2016. (www.thehill.com) Job creation at small companies has almost doubled in the last six months, reaching 82,000 jobs at companies with 49 or fewer employees in July, according to (Payroll Processor ADP.) As a result of the expected growth, plumbers may see more demands on their time. As our industry starts to recover, business owners and trade professionals may want to consider the benefits of staying ahead of the curve of our industries opportunities for education. The Illinois Plumbing Heating and Cooling Contractors Association (IL PHCC), National PHCC, and the Quality Service Contractors (QSC) have given us as contractors and trade professionals an advantage within our industry. The statistics above denote how important it is for us to be educated and constantly on the cutting edge of technology for our profession.

Increasingly strict plumbing codes, and stringent enforcement of these codes, may also lead to a higher demand. As the industry starts to recover, business owners may want to consider the benefits of field services software, which can ease the stress of managing a business. They may also see the benefits in having a mobile workforce, which can lead to greater operational

flexibility and improved worker performance. Service scheduling may enable small businesses to better serve their customers, as the tool may allow companies to be more organized and properly staffed. A company that uses new technology to operate smoothly during busy periods may increase their level of customer service and satisfaction, leading to loyal consumers, which in turn instill productivity and efficiency yielding a higher profitability in our businesses.

As our days pass by ever so quickly, I urge you and your partners to register for the National PHCC Connect 2013 Conference which will take place at the Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas on October 16-19, 2013.The educational and networking opportunities that will be available are plentiful. I hope to see you all there, as we strengthen our forces.

I would like to also encourage our members to participate in the Illinois PHCC’s continuing education opportunities taking place beginning in September 2013 and extending through April 2014. If you would like to sign-up for the exceptional educational opportunities to fulfill your Continuing Education (CEU’s) log on to: http://www.ilphcc.com/continuing-education We look forward to seeing you at one of these great classes!

Education is important for the economic growth of our nation. It forms a support system for individuals to excel in life. It is the strength of society and fosters our successes.

“Without continual growth and progress, such words as improvement, achievement, and

success have no meaning.” Benjamin Franklin

Best Regards,

William D. Todd

CAlendAr of eventsSEPTEmbEr 10-13, 2013

Cross Connection Control ClassRockford, IL

SEPTEmbEr 27, 2013Illinois PHCC CEU Class

John A. Logan CollegeCarterville, IL

SEPTEmbEr 28, 2013Illinois PHCC CEU Class

Kaskaskia CollegeCentralia, IL

OcTObEr 8-11, 2013Cross Connection Control Class

Joliet, IL

OcTObEr 16-18, 2013PHCC National Convention

Las Vegas, NV

NOvEmbEr 1, 2013Illinois PHCC CEU Class

Rend Lake ResortWhittington, IL

NOvEmbEr 2, 2013Illinois PHCC CEU Class

Lewis & Clark CollegeCentralia, IL

NOvEmbEr 9, 2013Illinois PHCC & Auxiliary Board Meetings

Holiday Inn & SuitesEast Peoria, IL

mArch 21, 2014Illinois PHCC Expo & Educational Day

Drury Lane Conference CenterOakbrook Terrace, IL

illinois MAster PluMber Wins AWArds!

At the recent PHCC National Association Executives Council (AEC) Conference in Nashville, the Illinois PHCC received two awards in the annual AEC Awards for Excellence in Communications competition. The Illinois Master Plumber magazine received 1st Place for Outstanding Achievement in the Production of a Convention/Expo Issue, and 3rd Place for Annual Membership Directory.


PluMbing ContrACtor registrAtion

reneWAl tiMe All plumbing contractors registered with the Illinois Department of Public Health should have received their annual renewal notice. Current registrations expire on September 30th. If you have not yet received your renewal notice, contact the IDPH Plumbing Program at 217-524-0791.

Your required insurance must be in effect at all times during the registration year. It is imperative that there is no lapse in coverage so that your registration remains valid. Before sending in your renewal, look at all the materials carefully and be sure everything is complete before submitting.

Complete your renewal as soon as possible. Online renewals are encouraged! Don’t risk being out of compliance if your registration is not processed by the deadline.

visit the neW ilPhCC.CoM

The new Illinois PHCC website is up and running with more features and tools for you to use. Visitors can now sign up for a continuing education class, contract for a booth at our Expo, register for Convention, and more with just a touch of a button.

We hope you enjoy the new website and find that it is a useful tool. Please visit each section at your leisure to see the many things we have to offer. Check back often for the latest on industry events and news.

Let us be THE resource for your professional needs.

WhAt’s Wrong With this PiCture?

What’s wrong with the cover photo on the August issue of the Illinois Master Plumber magazine?

While everything else on this water heater installation was done to code and a nice installation, the relief valve discharge did not meet code. Section 890.1230 d)2) of the Illinois Plumbing Code states “No reduced coupling, valve or any other restriction shall be installed in the discharge line of any relief valve that would impede the flow of the discharge”. The photo clearly shows that a ¾” x ½” male adapter was threaded into the relief valve and ½” copper run for the remainder of the discharge line. This therefore reduces the flow and violates the code.

Our winner this month was Raymond Bauer of Elk Grove Village. He will receive an Illinois PHCC logo item and also have his name placed in a drawing for a free registration to the 2014 Illinois PHCC Convention at the French Lick Resort in French Lick, Indiana.

Is there a code violation on this month’s cover? Let us know by emailing, faxing, or mailing your answer to the address inside this issue.



uAC hosts 2013 unity ConferenCe

Nearly 100 plumbing contractors and UA leaders from across the country met in Kohler, Wisconsin this past June to focus on a variety of challenging issues facing the plumbing industry. Gathering at the historic American Club Resort and the neighboring Inn at Woodlake, they also spent quality time networking with one another and sharing innovative programs and ideas to win back lost market share from non-union competitors.

The three-day conference, led by Union Affiliated Contractors (UAC) Chairman Robert Melko (who also serves as the Chicago Plumbing Council Chairman, PAMCANI Vice-President, and Local 130 Joint Apprenticeship Committee Co- Chairman), began on June 26 with the annual Plumbing Industry Council Meeting. UA General President Bill Hite and UA Director of Plumbing Services Tom Bigley served as the meeting moderators asking over forty UA Business Managers and union contractors to present a state-of-the industry and to provide best practices used to overcome the obstacles they face in their respective territories.

The next day opened up with remarks from UAC Chairman Robert Melko, UA General President Bill

Hite and UA General Secretary Mark McManus. President Hite made it clear that the UA needs to change with the times. “I am tired of hearing from my UA Business Managers that we have full employment with a 20% market share. That doesn’t cut it. We must do better and we must work with our contractors to make this organization successful.” The other speakers echoed those comments and also talked about building stronger political relationships, ramping up organizing efforts, and embracing new technologies.

From there, well-respected union contractor and Purdue professor Kirk Alter presented a PHCC Educational Foundation seminar series session on the topic of becoming a union contractor. Alter discussed the economic and emotional barriers to starting up a new business; the basics to running a new business; establishing effective marketing

plans; and working with professional consultants to ensure the new business’ ongoing success. Alter’s session led directly into a roundtable panel discussion on the same topic featuring UAC Chair Robert Melko and PCA/Plumbing Council/PAMCANI Executive Director S.J. Peters along with several other UA leaders.

UAc chairman robert melko and UA General President William hite. (Photo credit: Jeff Weiss—PAmcANI)

reprinted with permission from PAmcANI.

uAC hosts

2013 unity ConferenCe Continued

Ideas from both the panel and audience bounced back and forth about home growing contractors from current apprentices to succession planning among contractor family members and developing effective mentoring programs to partner successful business owners with the next generation of startup companies.

Following a luncheon reception, conference attendees were treated to a video presentation from the UA Bookstore. They watched an updated course on providing service in the plumbing industry and learned how they could purchase and use online training materials (www.ua.org/training.asp).

The next several sessions provided updates on regaining work in the residential new construction market including providing incentive “rebate” programs to contractors; using UA “Schedule A” agreements; utilizing new promotional strategies such as the “Plumber 911” campaign that is bringing back residential union service work in cities like Atlanta and Miami, Florida; and a “service program” presentation by UAC Chair Robert Melko.

The day’s activities concluded with an evening reception at the Kohler Design Center.

The final day was packed with more educational sessions led by Kirk Alter including a series on adapting business to the teen years (2013-2019) and also establishing specific offensive and defensive

strategies in an ever-changing industry.

IL PHCC Executive Director Bev Potts presented a session next on the advantages of state plumbing licenses and the need to keep them on the legislative books. Contractors also sat through a session on creating “incentivized” insurance plans to motivate their key staff.

The highlight of the conference was a private tour of the Bemis Plant, which is not only one of the world’s leading wooden and plastic toilet seat manufacturers, but an industry leader in molding and assembling innovative products in the medical, food industry and agribusiness sectors. Attendees spent over two hours walking through the plant and learning about how this 100% union company operates and competes on a global scale.

While the Northern Illinois presence of union contractors could have been higher considering the convenient location, UAC Chairman Melko remains optimistic that future “Unity” conferences will attract more attendees with its focus on plumbing industry concerns and ability to draw top UA leaders and contractors in one place. The next UAC Unity conference is tentatively slated for late January 2014. Be on the lookout for details and a conference invitation later on this year.

The highlight

of the conference

was a private tour of

the Bemis Plant


2013-2014 Continuing Education for

Illinois Licensed Plumbers

Date/Time Location Fee

**September 27, 2013 – 1:00 pm-5:00 pm John A. Logan College, Carterville, IL $50.00

**September 28, 2013 – 8:00 am-12:00 pm Kaskaskia College, Centralia, IL $50.00

**November 1, 2013 – 1:00 pm-5:00 pm Rend Lake Resort, Whittington, IL $50.00

**November 2, 2013 – 8:00 am-12:00 pm Lewis & Clark College, Bethalto, IL $50.00

**January 10, 2014 – 1:00 pm-5:00 pm *Heartland College, Bloomington/Normal, IL $50.00

**February 21, 2014 – 1:00 pm-5:00pm *Heartland College, Bloomington/Normal, IL $50.00

**March 21, 2014 - 9:00 am -1:00pm Drury Lane, Oakbrook Terrace, IL $30.00

No Walkins – No Exceptions. All Registrations for the March 21 class must be received before March 12, 2014

**April 4, 2014 - 1:00 pm-5:00 pm *Heartland College, Bloomington/Normal, IL $50.00

**April 18, 2014 – 1:00 pm-5:00 pm Rend Lake Resort, Whittington, IL $50.00

**State hours for Certified Plumbing Inspectors Please check the session you will be attending. TOTAL AMOUNT ENCLOSED $___________

Fee must accompany application. Sponsored by the Illinois PHCC IDPH Sponsor # 750-002 Course # 750-002-C1 & 750-006-C1 *Co-Sponsored by SIUE-ERTC IDPH Sponsor # 750-035 Course # 750-035-C1

4 Credit Hours To register, complete this form by checking the location you will attend,

provide your complete address, make checks payable to Illinois PHCC and mail to Illinois PHCC 821 South Grand Avenue, West Springfield, Illinois 62704

Phone (217) 522-7219

Name: License # 058- Address: City/State: Zip____ Phone: Fax: Email address: IMPORTANT: You MUST bring your Plumbers License with you to the program. Please arrive no later than 30 minutes prior to complete the registration process. Directions are available on our website at www.ilphcc.com Cancellation Policy: IL PHCC reserves the right to cancel a course due to insufficient enrollment. If we cancel a course, you will be notified and your pre-registration will be refunded to you or you may transfer to another location. There is no refund for any registration not cancelled (10) working days prior to the class. There will be a $40.00 service charge for any checks returned due to insufficient funds. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, the Illinois PHCC Association will make all reasonable efforts to accommodate persons with disabilities at its meetings. Please call 217-522-7219 with any special requests.


legislAtive uPdAteBy Bev Potts

Below is a recap of some of the industry related pieces of legislation that have been signed into law by the Governor.

Plumbing/Piping/Trade Related Bills:

HB 1217 (R. Rita) Amends the Illinois Plumbing License Law to extend the repeal of lawn irrigation provisions from January 1, 2014 to January 1, 2024. Signed into law by the Governor on August 2nd and is now Public Act 98-0140.

SB 1603 (M. Hastings & P. Althoff) Removes impediments to the promotion and financing of geothermal heat pump (GHP) installations within the state. Prior law inadvertently prevented Illinois investor-owned utilities (IOUs) from promoting the use of GHPs under the state’s existing Energy Efficient Portfolio Standard, and also prevented the Illinois Finance Authority from financing a building with GHPs. Signed by the Governor on July 15th and is now Public Act 98-0090.

Other Construction/Business Related Bills:

HB 922 (L. Lang) Amends the Prevailing Wage Act to provide that contractors and subcontractors shall make and keep for a period of not less than 5 years on a contract or subcontract for public works, records of all workers employed on the project. Provides that records may be retained in paper or electronic format. Actions for the failure to

pay wages or compensation shall be brought within 5 years from the date of the failure to pay. Signed by the Governor on August 13 and is now Public Act 98-0328.

HB 923 (J. Hoffman) Amends the Employee Classification Act to require contractors for which construction services are performed by an individual, sole proprietor, or partnership to report to the Department of Labor all payments made to those entities if the recipient of the payment is not classified as an employee. Provides that the reporting requirements do not apply to a responsible bidder who meets the requirements in the Procurement Code. Signed by the Governor on July 23rd and is Public Act 98-0105.

HB 1462 (C. Sente) Amends the Environmental Barriers Act to provide that the CDB shall begin the process of updating the 1997 Illinois Accessibility Code and shall model the updates on the 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design. Provides that by no later than January 1, 2016, the CDB shall adopt and publish the updated Illinois Accessibility Code. Signed by the Governor August 9th and is now Public Act 98-0224.

HB 2614 (P. Verschoore) Amends the Illinois Procurement Code. Removes language allowing a single contract for one or more buildings to be let to a single contractor. Signed by the Governor on August 16th and is now Public Act 98-0431.

Contact the Illinois PHCC office at 1-800-795-PHCC or email [email protected] with questions/comments on any legislation or regulatory activity.

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Too Busy To Protect Your Business?

get your business reAdyfor Any Kind of disAster

Atfree nAtionAl PrePAredness

Month WebinAr series

Each year small businesses nationwide are forced to close their doors in the aftermath of severe storms, flooding, tornadoes, wildfires and hurricanes. Business interruptions, even if it lasts just a few hours, are costly in terms of lost productivity and profits.

You can get help with your own business preparedness planning through a series of free webinars in September hosted by the U.S. Small Business Administration and Agility Recovery. The September series is presented in collaboration with FEMA’s Ready Campaign, as part of National Preparedness Month.

The SBA wants to help business owners take charge of the well-being of their own companies, the safety of their employees, and the sustenance of their local economies by being prepared to rebound quickly from any kind of disaster.

Below is a list of the topics. The hour-long webinars will be presented at 2 p.m. EDT each Wednesday in September.

SePTeMBeR 11: Protecting Your Organization by Preparing Your employees

Registration Link: https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/668927705

SePTeMBeR 18: The NeW 10 Steps to Preparedness - Lessons from the Past


SePTeMBeR 25: Crisis Communications for any Organization


SBA has partnered with Agility to offer business continuity strategies through their “PrepareMyBusiness” website. Visit www.preparemybusiness.org to access past webinars and additional preparedness tools.


liMited tiMe offer: free MerCury therMostAt ColleCtion bin

For a limited time, the Product Stewardship Institute (PSI) and the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency are providing FREE Thermostat Recycling Corporation (TRC) mercury thermostat collection bins to contractors and wholesalers in Illinois (a $25 value). This offer is available through October 31, 2013.

How do I sign up? To request a free thermostat collection bin, simply visit www.productstewardship.us/freebin or call PSI’s Evan Newell at (617) 236-8293. Once you have received a bin, there is no additional cost to participate in the thermostat recycling program.

How does it work? Under Illinois law, mercury thermostats that are permanently uninstalled must be recycled. The mercury thermostat recycling program in Illinois is run by the Thermostat Recycling Corporation (TRC), an organization funded by thermostat manufacturers. Wholesalers are required to serve as collection locations for mercury thermostats. Contractors with 7 or more technicians, or those serving rural areas, can also choose to participate for added convenience. Participants receive a thermostat collection bin. When the bin is full, it is sent to TRC at no cost using a pre-paid shipping label. The thermostats are removed and recycled, and the empty bin is sent back to the participant with a new shipping label at no cost.

Does it cost anything? No. Through a federal grant from the U.S. EPA, PSI and the Illinois EPA are covering the $25 TRC sign-up fee through October 31, 2013. Just go to www.

productstewardship.us/freebin to request your bin.

Where can I find more information? For more information, visit www.productstewardship.us/ILstats or call PSI’s Evan Newell at (617) 236-8293. For information specific to the Illinois Mercury Thermostat Collection Act, please contact Becky Jayne at (217) 524-9642 or [email protected]. For information on the Thermostat Recycling Corporation’s collection and recycling program, please visit www.thermostat-recycle.org.


treAt theMliKe MushrooMs

At youroWn risK

By Mark Breslin, Breslin Strategies, Inc.

In a recent discussion with an apprentice after one of my presentations, he impolitely called bullshit on my entire message. Since we were surrounded by a few hundred tradesmen, I resisted the sudden urge to punch in his little face (they don’t call me a professional strategist for nothing!) and instead asked him to explain what he meant.

He responded, “The contractors are making a mint on our backs, and you want us to be more efficient and responsible just for them? It’s crap!”

I followed up with this question: “Hey kid, how much profit do you think a contractor makes on a million dollar project?”

Without a moment’s hesitation, he blurted out, “A million dollars.”

“Really?” I said. “Are you sure you don’t want to reconsider that answer?”

He thought for a few seconds, shrugged, and said, “Well, maybe not. But they still probably make around $500,000 profit.”

Wow. Just…wow.

Do you think this young worker’s mistaken beliefs impact his work ethic? What about the level of effort he puts into the job – not to mention the quality of the work he performs?

If he thinks contractors are getting rich at his expense, will his attendance and accountability suffer?

Obviously, he has no clue how the union construction world really works. And if you asked some of the half-million apprentices in our industry the same questions, I’d wager you’d hear similar answers from a lot of them. This is not an isolated problem. The scary part is that these guys are going to be in our industry for the next 25 years (at least) spreading their misguided attitudes and beliefs…unless we get off our collective asses and start focusing on leveraging the power of knowledge to improve performance.

Have you ever heard the following phrase in the workplace or on the job? It comes up when people start asking supervisors and management a lot of questions or bring up tough subjects: “Treat ‘em like mushrooms; just keep them in the dark and feed them bullshit.”

Well, without even trying that hard, the union construction industry has done just that. We have kept the rank-and-file in the dark about the realities of our business by withholding relevant information and explaining how things work. As a result, instead of training up guys the right



treAt theM liKe MushrooMs

At your oWn risK Continued

way and growing “mighty oaks” (figuratively speaking) to help us regain market share and seize new opportunities, we have turned into a bunch of mushroom farmers. The kid I just mentioned? He’s a mushroom and he doesn’t even know it. But it’s not his fault. It’s ours.

In some organizations, the management philosophy resembles a poker player’s strategy: keep your cards close and don’t reveal anything. In others, management mistakenly assumes that labor is an “unengaged commodity” – in other words, they believe the guys on the ground simply don’t care about the nuts-and-bolts of running a business. And then there’s a third category of companies whose leaders flat-out don’t appreciate the motivational power of giving their workers a sense of purpose.

Union workers in the construction industry lack the foundational elements to both understand the industry as a whole and their role within it. They understand the work – they know how to use the tools and understand the importance of getting the job done. But after that, everything gets blurry.

When it comes to developing apprentices and new craft workers, our industry has traditionally focused on teaching and training skills. In fact, the brand identity for union workers is “highly skilled.” But what’s missing? Knowledge. In a competitive economy and industry that is rapidly evolving, knowledge is as important as skills. What kinds of knowledge do we need to provide to defeat the “mushroom farming” approach?

It is time for every apprentice and journeyman in the U.S. and Canada to undergo a course that should be titled “Construction Business 101.” This serious educational effort

needs to include the following key components:

n Market Share: Explain what it is, why it matters, and how it affects the union construction industry. Emphasize how gaining (or losing) market share impacts the individual union member and what needs to be done to ensure that our piece of the pie keeps growing.

treAt theM liKe MushrooMs

At your oWn risK Continued


n Why Union? Define the union value proposition and the promises we are making to the market. Explore the consequences of what happens when we fail to deliver on those promises. Make sure each worker understands they are personally responsible for the success of every job they work on.

n Finances: What is the total cost of a union journeyman (fully loaded)? What is the delta between union and non-union labor costs? What are the average post-tax margins for contractors in the construction business? How do the “little things” add up to kill margins?

n Clients: Where does work come from? How do contractors bid on and procure new work? What do clients expect? How can we convince clients to choose union? Why might they pick the competition? Why are quality and schedules so important?

n Leadership: What are the key business skills contractors need and want in both current and future leaders? How do you obtain these skills?

n Succession and Knowledge Transfer: How does generational change in the business impact workers personally? How might this change impact pensions? Why is mentoring so critical, both now and in the future?

n Change: Emphasize the inevitability and necessity of adaptive change at an

organizational, professional and personal level to remain competitive and relevant in today’s world.

And these are just the start. Many think that being in the trades is only about hard work, determination and grit – and in a sense, they’re right. I am a fourth-generation construction guy, and I know those qualities are absolutely essential to success on the jobsite. But we cannot ignore the fact that the hands that perform the work always follow the head and the heart. If our people don’t understand the industry, how can they really succeed? How will they feel as if they are a part of what is going on? Why would they ever want to embrace change? If they don’t even know what they cost or what a contractor generally makes, why would we expect them to care about cost control or productivity? It is time to evolve and focus not just on skills, but on knowledge as well.

The field guys are smart. They are hungry for information. They want to be empowered. They are not content to serve as “just” the production end of the business. They want a “why,” and they deserve it. We can no longer assume that they just “get it”. That’s as unrealistic as expecting an acorn from a mushroom.

For a more comprehensive list of suggested courses for an apprentice / journeyman friendly business curriculum, download it free at breslin.biz.

Year after year, accident records and reports indicate that little hand tools can cause great injuries. Almost all those injuries can be avoided, though, by following just a few simple rules; select the right tool for the job; make sure it is in good condition before you start work; use it the right way. Here are some examples dealing with basic tools.

Screwdrivers Proper care:

n Repair worn, bent, or broken tips, or throw the screwdriver away.

n Grind or file the tip of the screwdriver whenever necessary. It should fit the screw snugly.

Proper use n Don’t use a screwdriver as a punch, chisel, or

nail puller. n Select the right size screwdriver to fit the

screw. n For electrical work, use a screwdriver with an

insulated handle. n Use a vise or other support to hold the piece

being worked, instead of holding it with one hand and using the screwdriver with the other.

n Use an awl, drill, or nail to make starting holes for screws.

n Don’t force a screwdriver by using a hammer or pliers on it.

n Don’t carry screwdrivers in your pockets.

Chisels Proper care:

n Keep the cutting edge sharp at all times. n Repair the chisel head or discard the chisel

at the first sign of mushrooming – which can

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SAfETy WITh NONPOWErED hAND TOOlS

result in hazardous flying particles.

Proper use n Select the right size chisel for the job.n Use a mallet rather than a hammer whenever

possible. Make sure the mallet is the right size for the chisel.

n Wear goggles when chipping. Shield the work to protect others.

n Chip in a direction away from you, and don’t use unnecessary force.

n Hold the chisel toward the work end so your hand won’t get the full force of a blow if you miss with the mallet stroke.

n Keep files sharp. Clean them frequently with a file card (short wire-bristle brush).

Hammers Proper care:

n Make sure that the hammer head fits tightly. n Replace cracked heads and loose or cracked

handles.

Proper use n Use the right hammer for the job (e.g., a soft

metal hammer on highly tempered tools such as drills or dies, a claw hammer for driving nails).

n Head should be of proper hardness so they won’t chip or mushroom.

n Grip the handle close to the butt end.

Wrenches Proper care:

n If a wrench is bent, crack, badly chipped, or has a loose or broken handle, discard it. Don’t


Continued


straighten a bent wrench; that will weaken it.n Keep the jaws of the wrench sharp.

Proper use n Use the right wrench for the job, and be sure

it fits snugly on the nut. Never use a shim to make a wrong-sized wrench fit.

n If you can’t loosen a nut with the wrench you’re using, get a larger wrench. Never add an extension – or “cheater” to the handle for more leverage.

n Pull the wrench – don’t push it. Make sure your footing is secure, and allow plenty of clearance for your fingers. Use a short, steady pull.

n Don’t pull an adjustable wrench until it has been tightened on the nut. The jaws should be pointed in the direction of the pull.

Pliers Proper care:

n Don’t use pliers on a hard metal surface. This will dull the teeth and loosen the pliers’ grip.

Proper use n Grasp plier handles at the ends, not near the

hinge.n Never use pliers on nuts; use a wrench

instead.

Knives Proper care:

n Keep knife blades sharp and well honed. Dull knives are likely to slip.

n When storing, don’t have cutting edge exposed.

Proper use n Make sure that your hands and the knife

handle are dry, not slippery.n Don’t use a knife as a rake, or hook with

which to stab or pull the piece.n Never try to catch a falling knife.n Use a sheath or holder to carry a knife on the

job.

Axes Proper care:

n Keep axes sharp and well honed. A dull ax may glance off the wood and cut your foot or leg.

n Make sure the head is firmly seated on the handle.

Proper use n Wear safety glasses and nonslip safety shoes.n Be sure you have plenty of room for a free

swing.

Handsaws Proper care:

n Keep saws sharp and properly set, with no broken teeth.

n Oil them lightly after each use.

Proper use n Inspect the material you’re going to cut to

avoid sawing into nails or other metal.n When starting a cut, don’t put your thumb on

the material to guide the saw. Instead, hold your thumb high on the saw blade away from the material you’re cutting.

Safekeeping

In general, keep tools clean and in good condition. Have a place for every tool and keep it there when you’re not using it. Sharp tools don’t belong in your pockets. Never leave tools lying on the floor or ground or where they can fall. Many injuries are caused by stepping on, tripping over, falling on, or being struck by tools that have been left lying around.

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R E T R O F I T A N D R E P L A C E M E N T S O L U T I O N SLead-free backflow valves with the lowest life-cycle cost. Linear shower drainage systems. And antimicrobial glazed fixtures that reduce the spread of bacteria. When it comes to saving time, money, and maybe even a life, one name is the remedy to all your building’s needs. Zurn. For your next retrofit and replacement project, give us a call. We’ll listen.

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R E T R O F I T A N D R E P L A C E M E N T S O L U T I O N SLead-free backflow valves with the lowest life-cycle cost. Linear shower drainage systems. And antimicrobial glazed fixtures that reduce the spread of bacteria. When it comes to saving time, money, and maybe even a life, one name is the remedy to all your building’s needs. Zurn. For your next retrofit and replacement project, give us a call. We’ll listen.

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HERKOWSKI SALES ASSOC., INC.340 S. Lombard Addison, IL 60101262-512-1900

flAder PluMbing

feAtured on

diy KitChen CrAshers

Remodeling “reality” shows seem to fill the network and cable landscape these days. Viewers just can’t get enough of “before and after” renovation series like ABC’s highly rated Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, Home & Garden (HGTV) Design on a Dime and the PBS classic This Old House. But there’s another show that’s not only gaining popularity but has reached out to PAMCANI and Illinois PHCC member contractor Flader Plumbing & Heating Co. to work on its Kitchen Crashers program that airs Mondays at 9:00 PM on the Do It Yourself (DYI) cable network (check your cable provider for the channel number).

Hosted by Alison Victoria, this program has a mission to rescue the worst kitchens in America one house at a time. The premise is to find “weekend warriors” at their local hardware store, follow them home and completely transform their kitchen into an eye-popping showstopper.

While past shows re-run on the network and can also be seen on the Kitchen Crashers website at www.diynetwork.com/ kitchen-crashers, fellow contractors will want to tune in to the show in October for the episode that features Doug Flader

of Flader Plumbing & Heating Company.

Home Details of Chicago, a general contractor, contacted Flader Plumbing to work on the Kitchen Crashers show. According to Doug, the taping took two days as he and fellow employee Kevin McKewin re-routed the kitchen sink’s waste, water lines and a gas line. They also installed a new vent up to the attic as well as installed all of the kitchen plumbing fixtures. One of the most challenging aspects of working on the show was making an automatic fill function for the homeowner’s coffee machine. Doug noted that the homeowner is also an owner of a coffee brewing company so getting


flader Plumbing & heating company vice President Doug flader. (Photo credit: Jeff Weiss—PAmcANI)

flAder PluMbing

feAtured on diy KitChen CrAshers

Continued

this job done right was of the utmost importance.

Despite the pressure of that particular job, Doug says the whole experience of being filmed for television was exciting. He also found it rewarding to take an old kitchen and transform it by moving all of the plumbing from one wall to completely new locations. Not only did Doug eliminate all of the old piping in the kitchen, but he ran new lines in the basement and took care of all of the plumbing stub outs. While he didn’t necessarily feel like a celebrity during the taping of the show, Doug certainly felt like a track star because of the fast pacing of the film schedule.

When asked if he would go on Kitchen

Phcc & PAmcANI Alliance contractors bill flader (left) and Doug flader. (Photo credit: Jeff Weiss—PAmcANI

reprinted with permission from PAmcANI.


Crashers again, Doug answered definitely. In fact, he may be asked to bid on another house in Park Ridge that could be featured on the show soon. Plus with the DYI Networks’ growing list of crasher shows like Bath Crashers, Yard Crashers and House Crashers, there might even be room to have many other member contractors ready to step into the next cable spotlight on these home renovation series.

flAder PluMbing feAtured on diy KitChen CrAshers

Continued

Flader Plumbing and Heating Co., located in Evanston, IL has been in business for 95 years and is a fourth generation company serving Chicago, Northern Cook and Lake Counties. Flader Plumbing offers a wide range of work including boiler repair and install, piping, water heater replacement, water and sewer work, kitchen and bath remodeling, Thermasol Steam Bath installation and repair, AO Smith / Takagi tank-less water heater service provider and installer, and commercial and residential 24-hour emergency repair.


With new national lead-free legislation

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Illinois PHCC Reunion

June 12-14, 2014

FRENCH LICK CASINO - Be part of the excitement! Lose yourself at French Lick Casino, a 51,000-square-foot Vegas-style gaming facility all on one floor with soaring 27-foot ceilings. On our gaming floor, you can play to win a brand new car on slot machines or a progressive jackpot at our table games. You’ll find live-action blackjack, roulette and craps and other table games, a luxurious high-limit room and Indiana’s largest non-smoking room. Bring a group of friends and enjoy live entertainment, DJs and Promotions in our spacious entertainment lounge. Make the most of your stay with the French Lick Resort Rewards card. Play to become eligi-ble for exclusive casino offers and promotions. You can also earn credits by shopping and dining where you see the French Lick Resort Rewards card logo posted. Redeem credits at any dining venue, Resort-owned boutique or amenity – that includes golf, shopping, spa, sta-bles, slot machines at the casino – and more! Sign up for your card at Player Services in the casino, either Resort hotel front desk and other Resort owned retail outlets. Only a short drive from Louisville, Indianapolis, Cincinnati, Chicago, St. Louis and Nashville, come visit our breathtaking hotels and casino in Indiana.

French Lick Springs Hotel 8670 West State Road 56

French Lick, IN 47432 Phone 888/936-9360

Website: www.frenchlick.com

Please use the group code in order to receive the special group rate of $139.00 on June 11 & 12 and $179.00 on June 13 & 14, 2014.

Group code: 0614PHC

Diamond Platinum Gold

Get ready to hit the jackpot for your business …CONNECT 2013 is a sure bet to re-energize your business and recharge yourself! This value-packed event offers loads of money-making concepts that you can put to work immediately, including:

Get your Vegas on!• Register for CONNECT today. • Book your stay at the Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino – CONNECT’s headquarters hotel.• Plus, don’t forget to register for team-building events at the Las Vegas Speedway, or join the tour at the Hoover Dam

or Springs Preserve.

Visit www.phccweb.org/CONNECT for everything you need to know!

[email protected] 800-533-7694

• Arm yourself with the latest Big Ideas when it comes to customer service, diversifying your business, new technologies and the energy efficiency market.

• Produce world-class results after keynote speaker Forbes Publisher Rich Karlgaard reveals what successful strategies work for the world’s top performing companies.

• Start pulling hundreds of calls every month with some new online marketing strategies.

• Expand your market presence and business opportunities in the water-energy arena; even come home a PHCC Certified Water Auditor

• Ensure you’re ready to operate under new DOE water heater regulations … they’re fast approaching!

• And, make up-to-date decisions for customers and your business based on firsthand exposure to the latest innovations at the Oct. 17 Product & Technology Showcase.

The annual convention of the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors–National Association


PO Box 5007 2800 N.E. Adams St.

Peoria, IL 61601-5007 309-688-1068 309-688-4120

Connor Co. has been family owned business since 1936, servicing and building relationships with companies in the Plumbing, HVAC, and Industrial PVF industries. Connor Co. has twenty-four locations that work together with ven-dors to provide the best products to our loyal customers. Our customers are the most valued asset to Connor Co. By staying committed to our motto “Best Products…Best Prices…Best Service” Connor Co. will continue to provide quality products and build customer relationships.

- Peoria, IL. 61615 - Springfield, IL 62703 - Quincy, IL 62301 1209 W. Pioneer Parkway 1400 South 9th St. 1328 Seminary Rd. PH: 309-693-7229 PH: 217-544-9612 PH: 217-228-7898 - Macomb, IL 61455 - Mattoon, IL 61938 - Collinsville, IL 62234 433 N. Campbell 1308 Lakeland Blvd. #3 Business Center Court PH: 309-833-2148 PH: 217-235-4328 PH: 618-344-9200 - Kankakee, IL 60901 - Bloomington, IL - Decatur, IL 62526 1600 Grinnell Road 413 E. Oakland Ave. 3130 N. Grand Prix Dr. PH: 815-933-6688 PH: 309-828-000 PH: 217-875-5626 - Urbana, IL 61801 - Galesburg, IL 61401 - Marion, IL 62959 1900 N. Lincoln Ave. 2315 Grand Ave. 801 Skyline Dr. PH: 217-367-7601 PH: 309-342-7000 PH: 618-993-1031 - Peru, IL 61354 - McHenry, IL 60051 - Jacksonville, IL 62650 3 Terminal Road 3918 N. Richmond Road 630 Brooklyn Ave. PH: 815-224-1205 PH: 815-385-4404 PH: 217-243-3411 - Sugar Grove, IL 60554 - Danville, IL 61832 - Freeport, IL 61032 694 Heartland Dr. 520 E. Fairchild 1028 Il Rte. 26 N. PH: 630-466-3284 PH: 217-446-1818 PH: 815-235-7789 - East Moline, IL 61244 - Rockford, IL 61109 - St. Louis, MO 63146 4342 Kennedy Dr. 3537 Merchandise Dr. 2374 Grissom Dr PH: 309-796-2120 PH: 815-874-1515 PH: 314-994-9799 - Terre Haute, IN 47802 2800 S. State Road 63 PH: 812-232-3333

- Peoria, IL 61601 - Our Decatur locations - Our Urbana locations 2800 N.E. Adams St. combined. It is now under combined. It is now under Ph: 309-688-4407 Decatur Connor location Urbana Connor Location.

“Best Products….Best Prices….Best Service”

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