ABC�s annual event promotes safety awareness in a fun, entertaining atmosphere; Ogden Weber Applied Technology College honors AGC�s apprenticeship and training director for his efforts at recruiting new apprentices into OWATC�s program; AGC of America reports on construction unemployment woes.

The Utah chapter of the Associated Builders and Contractors will host its 10th annual ‘Safety Olympic’ competition September 10 at Wheeler Machinery in Salt Lake City.

The popular event is a big hit among ABC Utah members and continues to attract more and more people each year.

“It’s a big deal to us,” says ABC Utah president Ken Shulsen. “It’s a great way to take a different look at safety, and a great way for our members to recognize their field employees.”

Competitors participate as teams or individuals in a variety of events. Team events include the Bobcat Competition, the Scissor Lift Biathlon, the Backhoe Ballet and the Rough Terrain Forklift Challenge. Individual events include the Mini-Excavator and Dump Truck competitions. Prizes up to $100 will be given to winning participants in all the events.

“It’s a fun day and it’s interesting to see how skilled these guys are at operating big heavy machinery,” says Shulsen. “The event just helps us reinforce the importance of safety in the construction industry. You can never emphasize safety too much in the construction industry.”