-
News
Thursday, July 11, 2024Safety & Training Short - Hand & Power Tools
Portable abrasive wheels can be a very dangerous tool. Their rotations create large amounts of energy that, when used improperly, can propel objects through the air, damage flesh, or cause the wheel itself to explode. Every time you use a portable abrasive wheel, it is extremely important that you take the proper precautions. Check the tool over carefully Is the cord in good condition?Is the guard on tight?Are the washers full size? They should just cover the paper washers that are glued onto the wheel.Does
Tuesday, July 02, 2024Standards Board Adopts Standard to Protect Workers from Indoor Heat
Standards Board Adopts Standard to Protect Workers from Indoor Heat This standard applies to most indoor workplaces and requires safety measures to go into effect when the indoor temperature reaches 87°F to prevent the risk of heat illness to workers Sacramento—The Occupational Safety and Health Standards Board approved on June 20 an indoor heat standard to protect indoor workers from heat illness. The new regulation will require indoor workplaces to be cooled below 87 degrees Fahrenheit if feasible
Thursday, June 13, 2024Marin Builders Association Members: Save on your Workers' Comp!
Wednesday, June 12, 2024Safety & Training Short - Social Media and Email
Objective: To assure understanding of and adherence to safe practices for social media use. Social Media is an ever-present component of society today, and has been embraced by businesses of all sizes and industries to better interact with their customers. However, improper use of Social Media can irreparably damage your organization’s reputation, as well as your own.Know your organization’s employee policy: In addition to describing the type of information that can be shared with the public, many
Friday, May 31, 2024Cal/OSHA Model Violence Prevention Plan Has Been Published
Cal/OSHA has published a model plan to help employers comply with a new law requiring that they have in place a workplace violence plan. The model is designed to provide structure for employers to create their own plans. Businesses have the option to use the model plan, create their own or use another plan template. Alternatively, they may incorporate workplace violence prevention into their current Injury and Illness Prevention Plan. The new requirements are the result of SB 553, which was signed into law
Tuesday, May 21, 2024ADU's & Appraisals: Good ROI, By Searchlight Lending
There's some great news and updates on the value-add of ADU's; with homeowners receiving an 18-35% increase in home value by building one, according to the Casita Coalition. New guidelines from the FHA (Federal Housing Authority), include ADU-specific requirements for appraisers to accurately account for the market value and potential rent generation of ADU's. More and more appraisers are becoming familiar with ADU's and they now have the ability to increase the type, location and age of comparables. With
Thursday, May 09, 2024Build America, Buy America Act Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Compliance and Waivers in the Spotlight
Published: April 26, 2024 While contractors incur the extra costs involved, agencies have slowly begun to implement Build America, Buy America Act Pub. L. No. 117-58 (“BABA”) requirements after the final Office of Management and Budget (“OMB”) guidance was released last October in response to Executive Order (“EO”) 14005, Ensuring the Future Is Made in All of America by All of America’s Workers. This article highlights how the FAA is implementing BABA requirements and waivers under those authorities. As
Wednesday, May 08, 2024Safety & Training Short: Office Workstation Ergonomics - Digital Eye Strain
Objective: To inform employees about proper practices for computer monitor setup that will reduce the risk of eye strain Employees that spend most of their time at work in front of computer monitors may be at risk of eye strain.Eye Strain CausesPosition: Monitors placed too close, too far away, or at an angle to your field of vision, making it difficult to focus.Brightness: Screens that are too bright or too dim and high- or low-contrast images or text bodies, which can lead to eye fatigue and
Thursday, May 02, 2024The Power of Storytelling in Marketing: Differentiating Your Business to Attract More Clients
Have you ever stopped to consider what sets your business apart in the crowded marketplace of the building industry? As builders, architects, and construction professionals, your expertise lies in creating structures that withstand the test of time. But when it comes to marketing your services, do you find yourself stumbling over how to effectively communicate your value to potential clients? If the answer is yes, you're not alone. Marketing can be a daunting task, especially for those whose expertise
Tuesday, April 30, 2024THE Answer to all your Problems
Acceptance is the Answer. Frustrated by that client, again? Annoyed with the same team member? Doubting an employee? Resenting the IRS? Disappointed with your partner, again? Accept it or convert it. Acceptance doesn’t mean condoning bad behavior, or hitting ‘snooze’ again because there’s nothing you can do about the situation. It’s about looking reality in the face and admitting, “Yup, it is like this right now.” Once free from the grip of negative emotions, you can take clear-headed, creative, focused
Thursday, April 25, 2024Why Does My Business Absolutely Need to Embrace Social Media?
Well, quite frankly, you don’t HAVE to embrace social media, but you could be passing up a golden opportunity to not just connect with your dream clients but to supercharge your business growth. Just imagine your business's potential and new heights with the right social media strategy. Listen, I get it. You might think the world of social media is just a virtual cocktail party where people post pictures of their brunch and argue about cats versus dogs. But guess what? It’s also where your potential
Tuesday, March 26, 2024W-2 vs.1099: What you Need to Know - How to Protect Your Business From Employee Classification
Employee misclassification can pose serious risks for companies that rely heavily on independent contractors. The right staffing plan can help you steer clear of potential misclassification issues and keep your business running smoothly. In our latest article, we offer a comprehensive guide outlining the differences between 1099 independent contractors and W-2 employees. Additionally, we provide our top recommendation for how to ensure a safe, reliable, and compliant workforce, so you can protect your
Monday, February 19, 2024YES2YUM's Janine Aurichio on Business Success Tips Podcast with Paul Sanneman of CSS
Join two Marin Builders members as they delve into the world of stress-free projects with Mental Fitness Coach Janine Aurichio, who specializes in the construction industry. With over 20 years of experience, Janine shares invaluable insights on navigating challenges, improving mental resilience, and finding balance in the demanding world of contracting. Discover practical strategies to enhance your well-being, boost productivity, and foster a positive work environment. Tune in to gain essential tips for
Tuesday, February 06, 2024New eBooks Available from Code Check
We are pleased to announce that Code Check Complete 3rd edition, Building 5th edition, Electrical 9th edition, and Plumbing/Mechanical 6th edition are now available in eBook format. The eBooks contain additional material not found in the print books, and have enhanced navigation tools designed to allow you to quickly find the information you need. These most current Code Check books are based on the same model codes adopted by the state of California. To aid our California customers, we also have a
Thursday, February 01, 20242024 California Contractors License Law & Reference Book
Significant changes made to streamline book Sacramento, CA – The 2024 edition of the Contractors State License Board (CSLB) California Contractors License Law & Reference Book (Law Book) is now available. CSLB is pleased to introduce a streamlined law book that includes essential information for the California construction industry. The Law Book can be purchased directly from the publisher, or the online PDF version can be viewed or downloaded at no cost on the CSLB website. CSLB has reviewed and made
Thursday, January 18, 2024Civil Rights Department Publishes Updated ''California Law Prohibits Workplace Discrimination and Harassment'' Poster
Government Code section 12850 and related regulations require all California employers to display the “California Law Prohibits Workplace Discrimination and Harassment” poster in a conspicuous place where employees gather. The Civil Rights Department published an updated version of this poster that includes information about protections for employees taking bereavement leave or leave for reproductive loss. It also contains information about prohibitions against discrimination based on an applicant’s use of
Tuesday, January 02, 2024CSLB Reminds Licensees of New Laws Beginning January 1, 2024
Sacramento, CA – Heading into 2024, the Contractors State License Board wants to remind licensees of new laws taking effect in the new year.SB 630 (Dodd) This bill requires CSLB licensees and applicants to provide an email address, if available, when they obtain and renew licenses. The email addresses are not subject to disclosure under the California Public Records Act. This bill also authorizes the Registrar to automatically reimpose license revocation when probationary conditions placed on a license are
Tuesday, November 28, 2023Safety & Training Short - Winter Driving
Objective: To assure that employees are prepared for driving in winter conditions. A little extra preparation is needed to assure driver safety during winter months or other inclement weather conditions.Poor driving conditions is one of the biggest winter safety concerns. Due to shorter days, drivers are required to spend more time driving in the dark, and inclement weather can create slick roads and low visibility conditions.Click here to download the complete training short in EnglishClick here to
Monday, November 20, 2023Overview of Spring 2024 Construction Classes in Marin
Construction Training Programs and Resources in Marin Marin Builders Association is committed to helping individuals find rewarding careers in the local construction industry.Click here for an overview of Spring classes developed to show the side-by-side comparison of courses offered in Marin. We strongly support high school seniors and young adults interested in the trades to sign up for North Bay Construction Corps. Please view ourMarin Construction Training website for more information.
Wednesday, November 15, 2023New Community Development Agency Permit Ombudsperson
Meet Cristy Stanley! Cristy is the new Permit Ombudsperson at the Community Development Agency. She's is “open for business” and ready to assist contractors with the permit approval process at the County of Marin.VIEW HER INTRODUCTORY LETTER HERE
Tuesday, November 14, 2023Safety & Training Short: Hand and Power Tools: Striking Tools
There are some general rules that apply to almost all hammers and other striking tools. Never use a striking tool for any purpose other than that for which it was intended. Never use a striking tool with a loose or damaged handle or with a mushroomed head or dull cutting edge. Conditions vary, but it can never hurt to wear goggles when using striking tools.Click here to download the complete training short in EnglishClick here to download the complete training short in Spanish Safety & Training Shorts
Tuesday, December 06, 2022Contractors with No Employees Face New Workers' Compensation Requirement
A new law will require almost all contractors in California to carry workers’ compensation coverage, regardless of if they have employees or not. According to the author of the bill, State Senator Bill Dodd (D-Napa) the new law was necessary due to the tendency of many small contractors to claim they have no employees, when in fact they regularly hire day laborers or undocumented workers. Since a firm with only an owner and no employees is not required to carry workers’ comp coverage, those workers would
-
Newsletter Sign-Up
Stay up-to-date on timely news, events, happenings, and more.
-
Building Our Community