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New CA Court of Appeal Case Helps Determine Cessation of Work in the Absence of Recorded Notice
In California, a prime contractor is required, under Civil Code section 9550, to post a payment bond for any public works project larger than $25,000. A payment bond guarantees that funds will be available to pay for labor or materials furnished on a project. Since mechanics liens cannot be asserted against public property, public works subcontractors have few options for recovery if the prime contractor fails to pay. In many cases, a subcontractor’s recourse for collection of sums due is to file a stop
Safety & Training Short: Floods - Health Hazards
Objective: To assure familiarity and understanding of common health hazards present in flooded areas. Floods are extremely dangerous to life and health, even in their aftermath. Everyone involved in response and recovery operations must be aware of the hazards they face. ExhaustionHypothermiaHeat IllnessContaminated WaterClick here to download the training short in EnglishClick here to download the training short in Spanish Safety & Training Shorts provided by George Petersen Insurance Agency, the proud
Top Wellbeing Trends for 2026
Before we know it, 2026 will be here. As the year draws to a close, a question often at the forefront of business and consumer conversations is: What are the next major shifts in wellness? The industry is constantly evolving, but based on emerging predictions and market analyses, here are key wellbeing trends anticipated for 2026:It’s still about AI Personalized Health and Wearables: Oura Ring. Garmin. Apple Watch. Smart rings and watches are still hot on the trends list. These devices track individual
Safety & Training Short: Electrical Safety - Voltage Testing
Hazards of voltage testing: Anyone performing electrical measurements must understand the safety hazards associated with this task and be certain that their tools meet code requirements. Persons testing voltage on energized equipment or for verification on locked out equipment can be injured if test instruments are not appropriately applied or the wrong instrument is used for the job. Make sure your instrument is appropriately rated for the equipment being tested:Qualified persons need to be trained to
Getting Paid for Costs of the Government Shutdown
Now that Congress has passed a budget ending the government shutdown, contractors are left wondering how and when they will be compensated for costs incurred due to the government shutdown. This post explores how government contractors can recover not only the cost of work performed during the government shutdown, but also additional costs arising specifically from the shutdown. In order to get paid for impacts, contractors must understand: Shutdown Basics and Delayed PaymentPartially Funded
Safety & Training Short: Space Heater
Objective: To reinforce awareness of the potential dangers involved with space heater use.Understanding the Dangers Many people use portable and in-wall gas or electric space heaters to warm their workplaces, offices, or a room at home. Failing to follow important safety instructions can cause fires and serious injuries, including burns and carbon monoxide poisoning, or even death. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions when operating a portable heater.Click here to download the training short in
Accounting for Tariffs in Construction Contracts
President Donald Trump has implemented his “America First” trade policy throughout 2025 by implementing a sweeping set of tariffs aimed at reducing U.S. reliance on foreign goods. The tariffs, which have fluctuated since January, have included threats of a 145% tariff on goods imported from China, a 50% tariff on steel and aluminum, and a 10% universal import tariff on all goods entering the U.S. With the proposed tariffs constantly fluctuating, the impact has quickly rippled through the construction
2026 Employee Wellness Benefits Trends
Before we know it, the holiday season will be over, and we'll be starting 2026. As 2025 draws to a close, it’s time to look ahead. The landscape of employee wellness benefits is rapidly evolving, driven by the need for more comprehensive, personalized support. Understanding these trends now will ensure your organization is prepared for 2026.Trend 1: Holistic, Individualized Care The future of benefits is holistic, with a renewed and necessary focus on financial and mental health.Addressing the Financial