Planning is key for electric vehicle charging stations

As president of Signature Electric, Mark Marmer’s job can be a combination of detective and problem solver.

“Sometimes, I’m asked, ‘What’s involved in being able to install EV chargers? It’s just a thing with two wires and you hook it up, right?’” says Marmer, who is also a member of the Electrical Contractors Association of Ontario (ECAO). “Unfortunately, it is not that simple.”

Certainly, as more Ontarians transition to electric vehicles (EVs), high-rise residential and business properties will need EV charging stations and should seek expert advice to ensure their investments are managed safely and correctly.

“Each different place needs a different approach,” Marmer notes. “For example, a workplace might put in chargers to accommodate employees, while a mall might be installing EV chargers as a way of encouraging shoppers to stay longer.”

The challenge is that if electric charging station owners don’t plan their EV strategy well, they will run into problems.

“When dealing with multi-unit residential or workplace, a licensed electrical contractor with EV experience will have advice to offer in terms of how many chargers at what location and power management options to reduce electrical capacity needs,” agrees Cara Clairman, Founder and CEO of Plug’n Drive, a non-profit organization and trusted source for information in the electric vehicle industry.

“An experienced person is going to have the knowledge to help the customer really get the best solution out there,” she adds.

Optimizing your EV installation

EV installations can be complex. In a multi-use residential building, for example, it requires working with property managers, condo residents, and an electrical contractor. To help, Plug’n Drive has created a guide for condo owners, boards, and managers that highlights the important considerations and steps for the entire process and stresses the importance of hiring a licensed electrical contractor who has experience with electric car charger installation.

While it can be a complex task, the benefit of bringing in experts at the beginning of the process is they can help make it a lot easier.

Says Marmer: “Electrical contractors are in a perfect position to be able to help move this forward. You just need to bring us an idea of what you need to begin, and we will figure the rest out.”

Marmer has worked with EV chargers in a variety of locations. Speaking from experience, he says each brings new challenges and can require creativity: “We’ve done workplaces, shopping malls, schools, or even cities. And it’s not just the level two chargers; we do a lot of level three chargers for auto manufacturers, so we’ve worked with this technology in all kinds of interesting places.”

Given the growing interest in electric vehicles and federal funding grants available, the demand for EVs will only increase. That means even homebuyers who are looking for an electric charger should be using an expert.

“I would definitely go with a licensed contractor,” says Clairman. “I just think it makes sense to go with somebody who knows what they’re doing because there’s a fire risk if you don’t. Also, it’s important to remember that an ESA approval is required.”

“It’s like the equivalent of hooking up a stove but keeping the stove on six hours a day inside your house,” adds Marmer. “Does this really seem like a do-it-yourself thing? I think not.”

To find a licensed electrical contractor in your region, visit ecao.org.

Construction starts on new Terrace hospital

Construction has started on a new $622.6 million hospital in Terrace. PCL Constructors Westcoast Inc. is undertaking the design-build project.

“This is an exciting time for people in Terrace and the region, as work is getting going on a state-of-the-art hospital,” said Adrian Dix, Minister of Health. “There has been a lot of talk about a new hospital in Terrace, going back to 2010 when the request was originally made to replace the facility. I’m proud that our government recognized the need and took action, getting us to this important milestone.”

The 78-bed hospital will be more than twice the size of the current facility and feature private rooms. The emergency department will go from 10 treatment spaces to 20. The facility will have two trauma bays, six stretcher bays, four operating rooms and the latest diagnostic imaging equipment.

Mental-health services will be brought up to modern standards with the new and larger Seven Sisters regional mental-health facility being built on hospital grounds. There will be 25 beds at the new building, an increase from 20. The new hospital will also see an improvement in mental-health services, with 20 of the 78 beds dedicated to adult inpatient psychiatric care.

Northern Health will work collaboratively with local and regional First Nations to ensure the hospital is culturally safe and welcoming. Part of this work has been the creation of an Indigenous advisory working group, which will continue throughout the life of the project and give input into the new facility.

The new Mills Memorial Hospital will serve as the northwest region’s level-three trauma and inpatient surgery centre, providing immediate assessment, resuscitation, surgery and intensive care for injured patients. Currently, the hospital is a level-four trauma centre, meaning many patients are stabilized on site, then must be transported elsewhere.

The new hospital will be built at the north end of the current hospital grounds and is expected to be ready for patients in 2025. Demolition of the existing facility will follow to make way for more parking.

The project cost is being shared between the provincial government, through Northern Health, and the North West Regional Hospital District.

Vancouver expands EV charging in non-residential

Vancouver City Council has approved requirements to expand access to electric vehicle (EV) charging in non-residential buildings.

The new regulations require EV charging infrastructure in 45 per cent of parking stalls in most types of new non-residential buildings, 100 per cent of new car-share stalls, and all stalls in new hotels. The regulations take effect on June 1, 2022.

The bylaw supports the city’s Climate Emergency Action Plan goal that by 2030, 50 per cent of all kilometres driven on Vancouver’s roads will be by zero emissions vehicles.

According to the city council, these changes will have minimal increases in new construction costs, while significantly reducing or eliminating future costs of retrofitting for EV chargers in these buildings. Burning fossil fuels in vehicles is responsible for nearly 40 per cent of the carbon pollution in Vancouver.

The city is working to support the growing number of EVs by ensuring charging infrastructure is available now and in the years to come as mass adoption will continue to match the new federal mandate that 100 per cent of vehicle sales are zero-emissions by 2035 to meet Canada’s national net-zero targets.

These new requirements build on a decade of work to expand EV charging, and complement existing policies that require EV-ready stalls in new residential construction, ongoing efforts to expand the public charging network, and retrofits in multi-family rental buildings to provide Vancouver residents and visitors with more convenient access to charging points.

To continue to support accessible charging for those that need it most, the city is further expanding the public charging network with a focus on neighbourhoods with less access to home charging.

Few Canadian child-care centres offer high-quality care for disabilities

One in five Canadian child-care centres in a recent study offer high-quality care for children with disabilities, according to new research from the University of Guelph and SpeciaLink.

Researchers found a lack of qualified staff, insufficient funding and lack of access to specialists and resources were the main challenges to providing inclusive care.

As a result, children with a variety of physical, emotional and behavioural disabilities and those on the autism spectrum are turned down by centres that are full or that lack the necessary staff.

Dr. Donna Lero, professor emerita in the Department of Family Relations and Applied Nutrition, co-led the study with Sharon Irwin, director of SpeciaLink, a national centre for child-care inclusion. “Our research is particularly important as federal and provincial governments negotiate new agreements on how to expand and improve access to quality early learning and child-care programs,” Lero said in a press release in June.

The study, called “Inclusion Quality: Children with Disabilities in Early Learning and Child Care in Canada,” found that directors and staff in many child care centres are committed to including children with disabilities, but often lack appropriate support.

The researchers used case studies and rating scales administered by trained observers to assess inclusion quality in 67 centres across the country that had a long history of including children with disabilities.

They found that only one in five centres demonstrated good or excellent inclusion quality. About 20 per cent of the centres studied had poor or inadequate practices to support children with special needs, while the majority had scores in the minimal to mediocre range.

Nearly 80 per cent of child care program directors identified challenges to providing inclusive care, including staff lacking knowledge or training needed to support inclusion or difficulties in finding qualified staff. Insufficient funding to support inclusion and a lack of access to specialists and resources were also identified.

To improve inclusion quality, centres need proper staff training in child development and inclusion specifically, government funding for additional staff and access to specialists and inclusion support services, the study concludes.

“Respect for the rights of children with disabilities to fully participate in their communities is not yet a reality,” said Irwin. “This study identifies what needs to be in place in order to make full inclusion a reality.”

The future of sustainable cleaning

The cleaning process requires a lot of resources such as chemicals, water, and energy. Although facility managers should always aim to reduce reliance on these resources, the pandemic has made this goal more urgent.

Cleaning-related consumption has skyrocketed to reduce the spread of COVID-19, and so have concerns around indoor air quality (IAQ), the long-term effects of caustic cleaning chemicals and the speed at which waste is being generated within cleaning programs. In fact, 90 per cent of respondents in a Boston Consulting Group survey said the pandemic has made them equally or more concerned about environmental issues.

Thankfully, facility managers can easily adopt simple sustainability strategies that will fulfill consumer demands while making their buildings safer and more environmentally friendly.

How sustainability supports your operation

The benefits of sustainable cleaning transcend environmental impact.

Many commercial cleaning products contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), such as ammonia or acetone, that negatively impact IAQ. Poor IAQ negatively impacts the health of building occupants and cleaning professionals by aggravating respiratory illnesses like asthma or allergies. In fact, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reports that poor IAQ causes illness and increased absences.

More importantly, consumer expectations around cleanliness will require organizations to uphold frequent and thorough cleaning. This requires more cleaning products and equipment to be shipped, stored, used, and disposed of. This amplifies the risk and damage already associated with certain cleaning chemicals and processes.

By investing in green cleaning methods and products, facility managers can better preserve human health and the environment.

Five best practices for sustainable cleaning

To create a healthier, more environmentally friendly cleaning program, consider the following recommendations:

Simplify your chemical ingredients – For years, cleaning professionals have had to rely on products with a laundry list of ingredients, many of which aren’t environmentally friendly. Today, there are innovative ways to create effective cleaners and disinfectants using safe, sustainable ingredients. For instance, on-site generation (OSG) systems can produce electrochemically activated solutions (ECAS) using just salt, water, and electricity. ECAS clean and disinfect just as effectively as other commercial cleaning solutions but do not contain irritating fragrances, dyes, or VOCs. This makes them much safer for employees to work with and less likely to impact IAQ. Additionally, OSG systems reduce or eliminate reliance on traditional chemical shipments, which saves money and reduces greenhouse gas emissions.
Use equipment to your advantage – While floor care processes use many chemicals and water, advancements are making this process more sustainable. Consider machines that convert water into an effective cleaning solution and greatly reduce a building’s need for traditional floor cleaners. Research demonstrates that this equipment reduces water pollution by 77 per cent, air pollution by 94 per cent, and energy usage by 97 per cent. Wall-mounted dispensers that dilute cleaning solutions can also limit product waste while durably constructed mops and other tools reduce the need for frequent replacement that drives up landfill waste.
Consider certified service providers – Many companies claim to be dedicated to green cleaning, but how can facility managers be assured their provider’s processes are truly sustainable? This is where trusted third-party organizations can help. For example, Green Seal certifies cleaning programs based on whether they incorporate effective, sustainable cleaning and disinfecting procedures and equipment. Facility managers can more easily identify qualified service providers and have greater confidence that a cleaning program meets the highest sustainability standards.
Prioritize training and leadership – A commitment to sustainability starts with company culture. Thus, cleaning more sustainably is only possible when staff buy into its benefits. Train your cleaning teams so they understand how to reduce waste as part of their daily routine and feel comfortable using equipment like sustainable floor care machines, chemical dispensers, OSG systems, and more. Training improves cleaning performance and consistency, which can reduce the need to reclean and use more resources. If you are working with a service provider, confirm that their approach to training and development aligns with your goals.
Purchase environmentally sourced consumables – Significant increases in single-use personal protective equipment (PPE), disinfectant wipes, and paper towels during the pandemic have made sustainable sourcing more relevant than ever before. Consider the environmental impact of cleaning tools and paper products. Select durable, multi-use solutions like microfibre cleaning cloths, washable face coverings, and refillable spray bottles. In areas where consumables need frequent restocking, like restrooms, consider EPA-recommended toilet paper made up of 25-60 per cent post-consumer material.

Protecting people, planet, and profit

With the public much more aware of how cleanliness helps prevent the spread of illness, commercial cleaning services will continue to be in high demand.

While cleaning without generating any waste is impossible, there are ways to greatly reduce plastic, water, chemical, PPE, and energy usage. Facility managers who adapt sooner rather than later demonstrate a commitment to protecting cleaning professionals, building visitors, and the planet. At the same time, environmentally friendly solutions can have a positive impact on brand reputation and customer loyalty.

Whether overseeing cleaning in a school, office space, convention centre, or another facility, prioritizing sustainable cleaning creates a healthier, greener environment for all.

Kurt Kuempel is the General Manager of the Illinois and Wisconsin offices of GSF USA, a leading provider of cleaning services. For more information, visit www.gsf-usa.com or contact Kuempel at [email protected].

Protecting maintenance workers in extreme heat

Though the weather has varied, it has at times been a scorching start to the summer in Canada and the U.S., particularly in the Pacific Northwest and the East coast. Extreme heat provides numerous challenges, but not least is the difficulty of keeping outdoor maintenance workers safe.

With temperatures above 37 degrees Celsius already seen in some areas, the heatwave has already caused hundreds of deaths and led to numerous wildfire threats.

Many people and workers get to hide from the heat in air-conditioned buildings, but those whose jobs require them to work outdoors, including various maintenance workers, should take special precaution against heatstroke and other heat-related conditions.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) have resources educating people on symptoms of heat illness, as well as tips for protecting employees working in extreme heat conditions.

Heat-related illnesses include heatstroke, exhaustion, and cramps. OSHA also recommends that employers and workers watch for fainting, dizziness, nausea, and muscle spasms.

The CDC recommends the following safety measures during heat waves:

Wear appropriate, loose-fitting clothing.
If possible, stay in air-conditioned spaces.
Wear sunscreen and a hat to avoid unnecessary sun exposure.
Avoid touching or lifting hot and heavy metals surfaces and objects.
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water even if not thirsty.
Avoid unnecessary hard work or activities if you are outside or in a building without air-conditioning.

Every year, dozens of workers die and thousands more become ill due to extreme heat and humid working conditions, according to OSHA. Under OSHA regulations, employers are responsible for providing workplaces free of known safety hazards, which includes protecting workers from extreme heat.

OSHA recommends that employers follow these safety practices:

Provide employees with water, frequent rest breaks, and shade.
Allow workers time to build a tolerance for working in the heat.
Offer training on the hazards of heat exposure and how to prevent heat-related illness.
Develop an emergency action plan and monitor workers on what to do if they show signs of heat-related illness.

ISSA Show North America 2021 registration now open

Attendee registration is now open for ISSA Show North America 2021, which will take place in person at the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC) in Las Vegas, November 15-18.

Featuring more than 500 exhibitors and 65-plus educational sessions, ISSA Show North America will welcome the professional cleaning industry for top-tier education, networking, commercial opportunities to grow business, and to showcase the latest innovative products and solutions.

This year’s event will be hosted in the newly expanded West Hall of LVCC, which earned GBAC STAR Facility Accreditation in August 2020 for its cleaning, disinfection and infection prevention protocols and procedures. Additionally, the event’s official cleaning provider, United Services, is a GBAC STAR-accredited service contractor.

“We are beyond excited to welcome back our audience to the first large-scale face-to-face event in almost two years,” said Informa Markets Group Director Lindsay Roberts. “With an elevated sense of importance around cleaning and its positive impact on human health and wellness, there is pent-up demand and excitement building for this year’s show. We’re so grateful for the loyalty over the last 18 months from our partners, exhibitors, and sponsors, and look forward to delivering an incredible and safe experience.”

Registration benefits

All registrants have three registration options this year to make the most out of the event:

The All-Access Pass — This provides access to the exhibit hall plus more than 65 education sessions, invitation-only networking events, the Lunch and Learn, Welcome Reception, Attendee Orientation, Opening Spotlight Speaker, Spotlight Power Panel, and more.
The IEHA All-Access Red Carpet Pass—provides all features of the All-Access Pass, plus the IEHA Welcome Reception, the IEHA Luncheon, and the IEHA Membership Meeting & Awards Luncheon.
Expo Only Badge — includes access to exhibits during show floor hours, November 16-18, and all education opportunities hosted on the show floor.

In celebration of the 2021 show, ISSA Show North America is offering special pre-registration pricing on the All-Access Pass through September 1. ISSA Members can get the All-Access Pass for US$180, the IEHA All-Access Red Carpet Pass for $399, and the Expo Pass complimentary.

Continued growth for education sessions, certifications, and workshops

ISSA Show North America features a top-tier, extensive educational conference program including 65-plus sessions hosted November 15-18 in eight different curated tracks catering to specific industry segments. In addition, ISSA will host eight workshops, some of which grant certifications for attendees upon completing the course. The program also will feature a Spotlight Lunch and Learn, Opening Spotlight Speaker, and Spotlight Power Panel.

“The conference program covers many other critical areas in addition to the tracks,” stated ISSA Vice President of Sales, Trade Shows, and Media Kim Althoff. “To date, we have eight certifications and workshops on the schedule spanning all four days of the event.”

Additional show offerings

The 2021 show offers additional special attractions and event features to fit attendees’ needs, including:

Networking events to establish real connections, build new business relationships, and share best practices with thousands of industry peers. Events include the Welcome Reception, Happy Hours, Networking Breaks, Lunch and Learn, Attendee Orientation, Evening Roundtables, Canada Night Social Event, ISSA Hygieia Network Awards Reception, the ISSA Business Meeting and Awards Luncheon, and more.
Numerous pavilions on the show floor for specific specialties and similar exhibitors:
- Building Service Contractors Association International (BSCAI) Pavilion
- First-Time Exhibitor Pavilion
- Innovation Showcase
- International Pavilion
- Italian Pavilion
- Meeting Hubs
- Residential Cleaning Pavilion
- Specialty Cleaning and Restoration Pavilion
Show Floor Education Theaters that dive into topics most important to a successful business:
- Solve for X – Booth W7635
- Innovation Showcase & Theater – Booth W266
- Specialty Cleaning & Restoration Theater – Booth W6729

The Innovation Awards program returns

Over the past 12 years, the Innovation Awards Program has empowered exhibitors and attendees to connect, educate, and network on the newest solutions to challenges faced by industry professionals. In a newly envisioned program, featured products and services are eligible to win one of five Innovation of the Year Honoree Awards and the prestigious Innovation of the Year Award, announced in-person at the show.

Continued partnerships

For the 13th consecutive year, The Building Service Contractors Association International (BSCAI) and its 2021 Contracting Success Conference will co-locate with the annual ISSA Show North America in Las Vegas.

Additionally, ISSA Show North America welcomes the newly expanded program and track, K-12 & Higher Education Track (formerly Green Clean Schools track), presented by Healthy Green Schools & Colleges, which focuses on sustainable facilities management in schools and universities nationwide.

“ISSA Show North America Las Vegas will be the culmination of our ongoing efforts at ISSA to raise the global voice of cleaning,” commented ISSA Media Editorial Director Jeff Cross. “Quality publications are a vital ingredient at this high-end event.”

“All eyes are on the cleaning world in the wake of the pandemic,” said ISSA Executive Director John Barrett. “We look forward to welcoming industry professionals from across the globe to connect, network, and further enhance their knowledge of cleaning for public health and safety.”

Pre-sale success of 2 Burrard Place may signal market shift

Developers are eyeing the recent pre-sale success of 2 Burrard Place after early registrants bought nearly half of the condo’s units in the first two days. Pattison Group and Reliance Properties launched the 35-storey tower in downtown Vancouver where pre-sale condos have failed over the past four years due to a slew of government housing policies and taxes to cool out-of-reach prices.

Dillon Sangha, market and advisory manager at Urban Analytics, said developers have cancelled or delayed plans after failing to achieve sufficient sales, and that 2 Burrard Place is likely selling quickly because of demand, price, and units that feature convertible floorplans unique to the core.

“The project offers smaller homes with living rooms that can convert to bedrooms at night, something that, to our knowledge, is a first for downtown,” he said. “The project’s success demonstrates that demand we’ve seen in other parts of Metro Vancouver this year also exists in downtown and could open the door to additional project launches in the coming months.”

2 Burrard Place is modeled after compact living common in Europe and has homes that start as small as 435 square feet. The project team said potential buyers started requesting floorplans months ago.

“The homes at 2 Burrard Place seamlessly integrate space, style and function – without compromising luxury,” said Jon Stovell, president and CEO of Reliance Properties, who is also chair of Urban Development Institute. “We’ve created two show-suites that demonstrate that living your best life is possible in a well-defined compact space.”

The amenity terrace.

Burrard Place is a $500-million, mixed-use community at the Burrard Bridge gateway. Covering an entire city block at more than one-million square feet, it is the largest real estate project in each company’s history and one of the largest projects underway in Metro Vancouver. The first residential tower, One Burrard Place, sold out within weeks in 2015 and is nearing completion, becoming Vancouver’s third tallest building at 60 storeys. The office building is also nearing completion and actively leasing.

The amenity lounge.

At 2 Burrard Place, residents will have an in-home control panel that gives them on-demand access to a butler, personal chef, and wine specialist, along with 30,000 square feet of amenities like health and wellness spa facilities, a full-size lap pool, and yoga space.

“Downtown will always be a great investment,” said Stovell. “It is the hub for commercial, social and cultural activity … the heart of the city.”

Private balconies are in demand

In the wake of COVID-19, multifamily housing developers are emphasizing outdoor amenity spaces more than ever with private balconies now at the top of many tenants’ wish lists. According to a recent white paper published by Newmark in conjunction with Hartman Design Group, a major developer recently reported that 70 per cent of its upcoming units are now being designed to include private balconies compared to 40 to 50 per cent in pre-pandemic days. Furthermore, the same developer anticipates raising rent premiums for this in-demand amenity.

While there’s no question that private balconies have the power to drive added value in multifamily residential buildings, they also require careful specification. The combination of being elevated and outside presents structural and safety concerns that must be planned for from the outset. Here are some key considerations for multfamily housing developers embarking on projects that feature balconies:

Code compliance

First and foremost, balcony railings must be specified to code. Requirements vary by jurisdiction, so it is important to consult with a subcontractor well-versed in the engineering requirements for guardrail systems to ensure compliance with codes, such as height restrictions, wind loading, live loads, snow loads, uplift, and materials selection for the environment—including anchors and fasteners. Due to the structural loading required by building code, it is important that railings are considered early in the design phase to ensure the balcony structures can handle the proper loading criteria.

A good supplier partner will provide a comprehensive proposal that contains all the pertinent details a developer might need, including detailed takeoffs with specific inclusions (or exclusions) for railings within the project scope. Additionally, a qualified team will include 3-D renderings based on the architectural and structural specifics for a project. These precision measurements eliminate the risk of human error and are especially helpful during the approval process. They also save weeks of manual field measuring and result in a much faster track to manufacturing.

Aesthetics

In addition to ensuring safety, balcony railings should meet the architect’s design intent and enhance the exterior aesthetic of a building. Design considerations include colour, code-compliant height, engineering requirements and panel infill design. Once utilitarian, today’s railing options for multifamily buildings are as varied and versatile as their single-family and commercial counterparts. Many are available with a range of infill options including traditional pickets along with industrial-inspired mesh inserts and transitional glass panels. Railings today can also be upgraded with LED lighting for added ambiance and safety.

Installation

Another reason to consider balcony railings early in the design process is because installation requires close collaboration with other trades to ensure the construction for anchorage points meets code requirements and product design intent. Proper phasing of activities is essential for aligning with construction methods and scheduling. For example, at the Ascent by Watermark luxury multifamily community in Colorado Springs, CO, a detailing of each unique site condition was provided at the onset of the design stage, which enabled the railing supplier (Trex Commercial Products) to identify opportunities to optimize sequencing with trade partners and constructability of stair conditions.

Balconies equipped with the Trex Signature railing system.

Versatility and ease of installation should also be considered when evaluating railing options. For instance, some balcony railing systems are available in pre-assembled panels that can accommodate interchangeable infill options and work with multiple anchoring options, including for wood substrate, concrete, and wall attachments. Another benefit is that assembly may require no special tools or tightening, while the components can be modified on site to fit field conditions.

Longevity

If designed with proper material selection and connections, balcony railings should last the lifetime of the building. Aluminum is an ideal choice for balconies because it offers superior strength and design flexibility. Durable powder coating allows railings to resist corrosion and retain their colour with very little maintenance — and because aluminum is a sustainable material that can be made from recycled content, installing the right railing system can contribute to the LEED Recycled Content credit.

Proper connections are equally important for ensuring longevity. It’s not uncommon to see a lack of detail related to railing connections, which can create future cost variances and construction issues when left ambiguous. Again, this is where an experienced supplier partner can prove extremely valuable. Early collaboration with the general contractor will enable the developer to take advantage of a product’s anchoring options to accommodate any specific design intent of the balcony structure that differed from the original rail attachment plans.

In conclusion, architects and developers should enlist the help and expertise of a qualified manufacturer at the beginning of design planning to best understand what’s possible when it comes to balcony railings, and what’s required for an optimal outcome. When done right, balcony railings can enhance privacy, optimize views, and create an outdoor oasis that commands a premium while delivering tenant satisfaction.

Chad Benning is Vice President of Projects for Trex Commercial Products, a leader in engineering and fabricating architectural railings for commercial applications. To learn more, visit https://www.trexcommercial.com/

Preventing conflicts from escalating in condos

Many condominium communities embrace the concept of preventative maintenance. When it comes to elevators, drains and HVAC systems, the notion is to proactively inspect and maintain to avoid the cost and uncertainty of problems arising. The belief is that in spending some money up front, condos are able to save in the long run.

Similar philosophies can apply to handling conflict, though it is harder to quantify the cost savings available when conflict is addressed early. The value of taking proactive steps may be less obvious when you consider the human factor of ongoing relationships as opposed to physical buildings and equipment. This is particularly the case as interactions between people can be unpredictable, time-consuming and awkward.

Some situations can appear to resolve themselves, which cannot be said for uncleaned lint traps or neglected fan coil units. It can also be harder to know what type of behaviour contributes to conflicts and, by extension, conflict prevention.

Soft skills are required. The same approach can be received in drastically different ways in various circumstances. There is no one-size-fits-all approach for board members, condominium management and others who present as the “face” of a condominium community. That said, there are strategies that can be helpful to consider in recognition of the fact that reactive approaches to conflict can be quite costly.

“Talk less, smile more”

This catchphrase from the popular musical “Hamilton” is sound advice for anyone engaging in interactions as a representative of a condominium corporation, particularly when that individual alone is not empowered to decide what will be done about a particular issue. Being friendly can invite trust and build rapport. This is a good way to manage conflicts. When condominium representatives talk more than they listen, they can be perceived not to be listening or viewed as thinking they have all the answers. Both sentiments can escalate conflict.

Invite feedback

Condominium boards and managers can take being approachable to the next level by inviting thoughts and suggestions. It can be all too easy for condominium residents and owners not to be sure where to present their questions or when to expect a reply. Highlighting how feedback can be provided and when it will be addressed establishes shared expectations around communications that can strengthen relationships. Issues can be identified earlier on than they otherwise would. It helps minimize the risk of conflicts escalating as a result of misunderstanding. One example is to invite questions ahead of the Annual General Meeting. Not only does this offer more of a chance for one to pose a question; it also provides time to prepare a response and to consider where potential issues may emerge.

Communicate progress

While many preventative maintenance programs are presented as checklists to be ticked off, proactively managing conflict does not work in quite the same way. Rather than waiting and reacting to something being complete, condos can share their plans, progress and challenges. This most often takes place through community e-blasts, newsletters and notice boards. Keeping members of the community in the loop as to what is going on can help ensure that they feel engaged and valued. It can also avoid the surprises and misconceptions that give rise to the escalation of conflicts.

The strategies shared can sometimes be considered trite or unimportant. They are optional, go beyond what is legally required and are not always simple and straightforward to carry out. Some might even suggest that they invite conflict by asking for issues to be raised, which might otherwise not be. The preventative approach is not about keeping eyes closed; it is about opening them. It is about engagement, awareness and a willingness to take early action. Rarely is it the case that a dispute, which ends up costing a condominium community tens of thousands of dollars, did not present opportunities that could have been embraced earlier for a fraction of that cost.

Marc Bhalla, LL.M. (DR), C.Med, Q.Arb, MCIArb is a mediator and arbitrator. He can be reached at [email protected]

Design team named for Oval mixed-use development

Arno Matis Architecture and Rafii Architects along with Studio Munge are the design team for Landa Global Properties’ newly-acquired, 3.5-acre site near the Olympic Oval in Richmond, B.C.

Located at Elmbridge Way and River Road, the site is part of the Oval Village, in the heart of Richmond city centre’s premier waterfront community. The new, three-tower, mixed-use development will include a hotel, retail and residential homes.

Arno Matis Architecture and Rafii Architects were also responsible for Landa’s Cascade City, a two-tower residential development that recently completed in Richmond.

“This will be totally unique, not only for Richmond, but within greater-Vancouver,” said Arno Matis, principal. “We’ve never done anything like it. We are eager to bring thoughtful, evolved design to the Olympic Oval community. Adding a third tower and signature hotel element with Studio Munge brings even more excitement and opportunity to create something exceptional.”

The proposed architecture is a forward-looking and shaped by the forces of nature: Inspired by the tidal flats of the river delta and its rippled sand patterns found at low tide, the building curves and undulates to create passive and active open spaces.

The interior design concept is still being developed, but there will be an elaborate clubhouse amenity for hotel guests and residents that will look and feel more like a country club, with design elements influenced by high-end Asian hotels. Rooms and residences will feature large outdoor living spaces and balconies to improve livability and to comply with our post-pandemic needs. Landscaping will feature extensive garden spaces for hotel guests and residents.

“Very early on we wanted to create a multi-layered, experiential destination that would help residents and travelers connect with their surroundings in a meaningful way. This project goes far beyond a typical development. It is a sophisticated dialogue with the local context at the intersection of urban and nature,” says Alessandro Munge, founder and design director, Studio Munge.

Rising vacancies in seniors’ housing continues

Vacancy rates in seniors’ housing are rising in all provinces except Newfoundland and Labrador, according to CMHC’s 2021 Seniors’ Housing Survey. Overall, the vacancy rate for standard spaces — those that do not offer high-level care — grew by 7.0 percentage points and currently holds at 15.6 per cent.

Conducted between April and May 2021, the survey looked at seven regions across Canada, compiling data about private and non-private residences in which 50 per cent or more of occupants are above the age of 65. The data reveals an increase in supply across most provinces, while the number of residents has decreased or only moderately increased. The weak demand could reflect the reluctance of households to move into seniors’ residences during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Quebec again posted the highest capture rate in the country despite a decrease overall. 17 per cent of seniors aged 75 and older live in seniors’ housing in that province compared to only 5 to 10 per cent in others.

Here are key highlights from the survey:

British Columbia

“Independent living space” vacancies continued to increase from 5.1 per cent in 2020 to 12.5 per cent in 2021 with the largest increase in the Lower Mainland (14.7%). Vacancies on Vancouver Island increased from 3.4 per cent to 10.7 per cent with the Victoria region experiencing an increase of 13.9 per cent.

Higher priced independent living spaces had a larger vacancy increase as units over $5,000 increased from 4.9 per cent to 14.6 per cent. Conversely, the $1,900 to $2,399 segment only saw an increase of 1.9 percentage points (from 5.3 % to 7.2 %).

Average rents in B.C. across all unit types increased from $3,364 to $3,541 in 2021. In total, 877 spaces of mainly one-bedroom units were added, representing a 2.7 per cent increase in units.

Alberta

The Albertan seniors’ housing standard spaces continued to see rising vacancies jumping from 15.1 per cent in 2020 to 26.8 per cent in 2021. The Edmonton Census Metropolitan Area continued to see the largest increase in vacancy rate (from 12.6% in to 27.6%).

Standard spaces below $2,499 saw the largest increase in vacancy rates. In the segment of $2,000 to $2,499, rent spaces increased from 16 per cent in 2020 to 31.2 per cent in 2021. Higher vacancy rates were observed in these spaces in the rest of Alberta, compared to Calgary and Edmonton.

Average rent for standard spaces in Alberta continued to increase this year in all centres. For example, the average rent saw Calgary reaching $4,140 and Edmonton reaching $3,047. Meanwhile, the number of total spaces grew by 11 per cent in total for the province, bringing the number of standard seniors’ housing units to 16,523 .

Saskatchewan

The vacancy rate for standard spaces increased by 7.4 percentage points to 22.4 per cent with the Regina Census Metropolitan Area recording the largest increase to 30.2 per cent. Saskatoon increased by only 4.6 percentage points (to 19.1%).

The average senior housing rent level in Saskatchewan remained relatively stable at $3,116, compared to $3,105 last year. In terms of units added, most of the net changes in senior spaces were located in Regina where the area had an increase of 220 units, bringing the total number of spaces to 2,120.

Manitoba

Vacancy rates increased for all unit types throughout the province of Manitoba, with the provincial vacancy rate increasing by 6.0 percentage points to 8.7 per cent. Vacancies in the Winnipeg Census Metropolitan Area were 8.2 per cent, while outside the city, vacancies were at 12.1 per cent.

Average rents for standard units remained stable — $2,844 in 2021 compared to $2,849 in 2020. Meanwhile, seniors’ housing supply increased marginally this year with Winnipeg adding 31 net spaces to bring the city’s total to 4,405 and the province’s total to 5,080.

Ontario

The vacancy rate for standard spaces in Ontario increased to 19.6 per cent in 2021, up from 11.0 per cent in 2020. The vacancy rate increased across all unit types. Demand for total spaces in Ontario’s seniors’ residences declined, while the total supply of seniors’ housing increased by 3.8 per cent.

The average rent for a standard space increased by 3.5 per cent to $3,999. Only 5.0 per cent of Ontario’s seniors aged 75 and over currently live in seniors’ residences, representing a lower capture rate than the 2020 proportion of 5.5 per cent.

Quebec

The vacancy rate rose to a peak of 12.8 per cent in 2021, up from 6.9 per cent in 2020 for standard spaces. The average rent for standard spaces was $1,922 in 2021, compared to $3,652 for heavy-care spaces. An increase in rents for standard spaces has been registered in most regions with an average increase of 4.2 per cent overall. The highest average rent for standard spaces is in Gatineau at $2,287.

Atlantic Canada

The total number of spaces in Atlantic Canada grew 5.7 per cent to 10,599 units in 2021. This was primarily due to growth in Halifax where there was a 27 per cent increase in the number of units over the year.

A decline in vacancies in Newfoundland and Labrador (from 22.6% to 17.5%) came against increases in vacancies across the other three Atlantic Provinces. Despite the decline, Newfoundland and Labrador still maintained the highest vacancy rate in the region. The increase in vacancies were concentrated in spaces with rents of $3,000 and more, with the biggest change in spaces with rents between $3,000 and $3,499.

Correction notice: The original version of this article posted July 7, 2021, contained inaccurate statistics. The article and corresponding statistics were corrected and updated on July 8, 2021. For more information, please visit 2021 Seniors Housing Survey results are in | CMHC (cmhc-schl.gc.ca).

New aid bolsters Ottawa convention facility

Ottawa’s Shaw Centre, a 192,000-square-foot convention facility in the city’s parliamentary district, has received $2 million to help cover operational and maintenance costs and to stave off insolvency after 16 months of idle exhibit halls and meeting rooms. The funding injection is part of $8 million in newly announced tourism support from the Ontario government.

“Large gateway cities like Ottawa have keenly felt the impact of COVID-19,” says Lisa MacLeod, Ontario’s Minister of Heritage, Sport, Tourism and Culture Industries. “This funding will enable the Shaw Centre and Ottawa Tourism to continue to adapt and respond to the new realities facing tourism businesses, ensuring that, when it is safe to do so, they are prepared for a renewed leisure and business travel interest in Canada’s capital.”

The Shaw Centre’s allocation will be directed to rent, utilities, insurance and health and safety costs as the events venue prepares to reopen after an extended shutdown. Ottawa Tourism — an independent, not-for-profit organization that works with approximately 450 tourism-related related businesses in the region — is expected to use its $6-million share to help alleviate losses, draw visitors to the national capital region through promotional activities and development of new attractions, and to support workforce training.

“This critical funding will allow us to maintain our core operations and ensure that the Shaw Centre remains a safe and welcoming space for our guests as we plan for a brighter future,” maintains Nina Kressler, president and chief executive officer of the Shaw Centre. “We look forward to working alongside our partner, Ottawa Tourism, to attract business events to and generate economic impact for this great city.”

CIRI expands membership eligibility

Pursuing its mission to raise awareness of the importance of effective cleaning through scientific research, the Cleaning Industry Research Institute (CIRI) today announced it has expanded its membership eligibility for individuals to contract cleaners, in-house cleaning professionals, disaster restoration professionals, consultants, and others with interests in common with the related industries and their affiliations.

Previously, membership was limited to academics and trainers.

However, now, businesses and other organizations can also become members of CIRI under the newly expanded categories. This includes for-profit and nonprofit entities such as manufacturers, distributors, contract cleaning companies, disaster restoration contractors, trade associations, academic institutions, and government agencies.

“Since the beginning of the pandemic, we’ve seen a growing need to better connect the worlds of cleaning research with practice,” said John Downey, Executive Director, CIRI. “There are effective and ineffective ways to clean, and an abundance of research validates the best processes for cleaning and restoring indoor environments. If we want to continue professionalizing the cleaning industry, we must incorporate the latest science. This will ultimately impact human health in beneficial ways and extend the life of building materials.”

CIRI was established in 2006 as an independent, not-for-profit education, science and research organization. Its activities include research, such as the work it did to establish ATP as a viable measurement technique in certain cleaning situations. It also has held several in-person CIRI Science Symposiums. Most recently CIRI hosted a live stream COVID-19 and Pandemic Preparedness Symposium in March 2020, and a series of webinars on cleaning, disinfection, aerosols and transmission that began in the fall of 2020.

CIRI is a section 501c3 nonprofit professional technical organization, not a trade association. As such, all memberships are reviewed and approved by the CIRI board of directors.

To connect the worlds of cleaning research with practice, CIRI offers a variety of benefits to its members, including:

A peer-reviewed scientific journal, the Journal of Cleaning Science, available to members online or even delivered to your door.
Discounted or even free access to CIRI’s online and in-person webinars and events.
Free access to CIRI’s treasure trove of peer-reviewed technical papers, white papers and articles.
A members forum monitored by CIRI-affiliated scientists and other industry cleaning- science experts.
Opportunities to participate in research and present at CIRI science webinars, seminars and symposiums.

In addition to connecting members with current research, the institute also offers an exclusive first look at new and emerging research related to cleaning and disaster restoration. For example, during the pandemic, CIRI’s Science Advisory Council published a series of white papers and guidance recommendations related to cleaning, disinfecting and protecting cleaning workers from SARS-COV-2.

“CIRI is working toward building a community of science-minded individuals who are committed to improving the way our indoor environments are cleaned and maintained,” added Downey. “We will continue connecting research with practice so organizations have the data and research they need to clean effectively.”

Regulation of B.C. engineering firms now in force

The regulation of professional engineering and professional geoscience firms in B.C. came into force on July 2, 2021. Under the new provincial Professional Governance Act (PGA), companies that engage in the practice of professional engineering or geoscience as part of their operations, including firms that only provide these services internally, are required to register for a Permit to Practice.

Registration opens July 2, 2021, and firms will be required to complete their registration before September 30, 2021.

The regulation includes entities in the private and public sector, including consulting firms, local government, manufacturers, and sole practitioners. It also includes specific ministries, crown corporations, and agencies named in section 1 (1) of the regulation, with other ministries and crown corporations planned to be included in future phases.

July marks the culmination of extensive consultation and refinement to form the regulatory program now in force. Through a multi-year consultation with the Office of the Superintendent of Professional Governance, industry, and professional registrants, Engineers and Geoscientists BC (EGBC) developed a program that ensures legislative requirements can be met without undue administrative burden on firms, while supporting the shared goal of strengthening public safety and protecting the environment.

EGBC is the first regulatory body under the PGA to begin regulating firms. However, other regulatory bodies may develop programs and be granted authority to regulate firms in the future, building upon the experience and lessons learned from Engineers and Geoscientists BC.

The firm regulatory model is built upon three pillars of professional practice: ethics, quality management, and continuing education. It seeks to improve regulatory oversight, protect the public interest, and provide opportunities for firms to improve processes and reduce risk; in most cases, it’s about formalizing responsible practices that are already in place.

Implementing firm regulation will bring Engineers and Geoscientists BC into line with other provincial regulatory bodies across Canada, providing additional oversight of engineering and geoscience firms. Through required training, practice standards, and proactive auditing, the Permit to Practice requirements will enhance the quality of practice of firms, ultimately enhancing the health, safety, and environmental protections of British Columbia.

The Mason will transform a 19th-century brickyard in Port Credit

The Mason is the latest condo development coming to Port Credit’s waterfront in Mississauga, Ont.

This newest phase of the 72-acre Brightwater community, which launched last year, will stand nine storeys tall on the site of the 19th and 20th-century Port Credit Brick Company, bringing 160 condo units and 16 townhomes to the once industrial area.

Toronto-based architects-Alliance evoke the building’s historic past with a red masonry façade. The ground floor features double-height space with floor-to-ceiling glass, serving as an extension of the neighbouring main street retail corridor. Passersby can glimpse into the condo’s amenity spaces and grand lobby. Five thousand square feet of ground floor retail space round out the building’s convenient and connected programming.

“When we began our work on The Mason at Brightwater, we wanted to bring a contemporary expression of a vibrant main street Ontario experience to life while incorporating the site’s rich history as a brickyard into the design details,” said Robert Cadeau, senior associate, architects-Alliance. “To optimize views and light, we flipped the original orientation of the site during our process so we could offer the south-facing courtyard as part of that expression. The linear park and the pedestrian promenade function as the arteries of The Mason, which will be the vibrant heart of the entire community.”

The Mason courtyard

A pedestrian promenade connects residents to the vibrant main street retail corridor and waterfront. The pedestrian-orientation of Brightwater’s public spaces features hedges, planters and European-inspired landscaping, as well as places to gather and meet in the south-facing courtyard at The Mason.

Amenities are located off the lobby’s main corridor. The double-height party room and co-working space front onto The Mason’s courtyard. The fitness studio, complete with yoga and spin room, fronts the streetscape. The amenity program will also offer a bicycle and pet wash, smart parcel storage and an executive concierge.

The double-height party room and co-working space front onto The Mason’s courtyard.

“Throughout our design process, we’ve envisioned the Brightwater community as a holistic exploration of elements from the earth to the waterfront,” says Truong Ly, Founder, Truong Ly Design Inc., the team behind the interiors. “The Mason at Brightwater continues that journey, transitioning to a light, bright and airy design that is timelessly elegant and sophisticated. Inside the suites, we’ve continued to prioritize open plan concepts with effective layouts each connected to their own outdoor spaces, so that The Mason can be home for anyone who wants to experience modern waterfront living.”

Condo suites include one and two-bedroom layouts, and penthouses, with large living areas, floor-to-ceiling windows and designer kitchens. Residents will also be able to access a series of smart and sustainable home features that support a connected community and include public Wi-Fi, a Brightwater Community App, smart thermostats, door locks, parking, and more.

Improved Century Gardens reopens in Calgary

The Century Gardens urban park in Calgary is reopened after an extensive 12 year redevelopment that added two new pavilion buildings (with a public washroom and the opportunity for a food concession), a wood amphitheater and a new central splash pad.

Located downtown, the project also included upgrades to the heritage waterfalls, restored and repositioned public art sculptures, wider park entrances and increased route options to and from the C-Train platform.

Constructed in 1975 to celebrate the city’s centennial, the park’s mechanical and electrical equipment, and some above-ground features, had exceeded their life expectancy.

The city used the lifecycle upgrades as an opportunity to invigorate the park, making it more inviting and appealing to a wider range of users. The city noted it took care to enhance and protect the park’s historical features.

“More Calgarians than ever are looking for parks and green space to enjoy. People have been waiting for this day, so today is a great day to be able to reopen one of the most important parks downtown; giving people even more choices when they are looking for places to reconnect, reflect or relax outdoors,” said Mayor Naheed Nenshi. “We’re pleased to have been able to preserve many of the park’s historic features while adding contemporary elements that make the park more open, welcoming and safe for Calgarians living and working downtown.”

The fountains and water in the original park design are symbolic of the area’s mountains and rivers. City officials worked to preserve these features in the redesign. The concept for the site redevelopment was created with extensive public engagement and the project was entirely funded by the city. The final cost for the full project was $16 million. Graham Construction was the general contractor.

“I’m excited to have Century Gardens open for Calgarians to enjoy,” said Ward 8 Councillor Evan Woolley. “I want to thank citizens both for their input into the new design as well as their patience over the term of the redevelopment. The pandemic has shown how important parks and open space are and I look forward to seeing this park being enjoyed by locals and visitors alike for years to come.”