Masonry Magazine April 1981 Page. 1
masonry
APRIL 1981
'81 MCAA Conference Report
The 1981 Mason Contractors Association of America Convention and Trade Show was held in San Diego, California, February 22-26. The convention was well attended, with approximately 1,100 people present.
The convention program included a number of educational seminars and workshops on topics such as:
* Improving productivity
* Controlling costs
* Marketing masonry
* New masonry products and techniques
The trade show featured exhibits from over 100 manufacturers and suppliers of masonry products and equipment.
The convention also included a number of social events, such as a golf tournament, a tennis tournament, and a banquet.
The MCAA Convention is an excellent opportunity for mason contractors to learn about the latest developments in the industry, network with other contractors, and see the latest products and equipment.
Labor Relations
The NLRB has ruled that an employer did not violate the Act when it discharged an employee who refused to cross a picket line at a customer's premises. The Board reasoned that the employee's refusal to cross the picket line was not protected activity because it was not directly related to the employee's own terms and conditions of employment.
In another case, the NLRB ruled that an employer violated the Act when it discharged an employee who complained to the employer about the employer's failure to provide adequate safety equipment. The Board reasoned that the employee's complaint was protected activity because it was related to the employee's terms and conditions of employment.
Safety
OSHA has issued a new standard for the control of hazardous energy sources (lockout/tagout). The standard requires employers to develop and implement a written lockout/tagout program to protect employees from the unexpected energization or startup of machinery or equipment during servicing or maintenance.
OSHA has also issued a new standard for the use of respirators. The standard requires employers to provide respirators to employees who are exposed to hazardous airborne contaminants. The standard also requires employers to train employees on the proper use and maintenance of respirators.
Technical
The Brick Institute of America (BIA) has published a new technical note on the use of thin-bed mortar in masonry construction. The technical note provides guidance on the selection, installation, and performance of thin-bed mortar.
The National Concrete Masonry Association (NCMA) has published a new technical note on the design and construction of concrete masonry walls. The technical note provides guidance on the design of walls for structural loads, fire resistance, and sound transmission.
Promotion
The Mason Contractors Association of America (MCAA) is sponsoring a national masonry promotion campaign. The campaign will include advertising in trade publications, public relations activities, and educational programs.
The MCAA is also working with other industry organizations to promote the use of masonry in construction.