Agenda

Synthetic fibres have been used to improve the performance of asphalt concrete pavements for many years. Different types of fibres have been used to enhance asphalt mixture properties and to improve the long-term performance of asphalt concrete pavements. One of the more recent materials to be used for this purpose has been aramid fibres. Aramid has become widely used in many applications for its high tensile, high modulus and temperature resistance properties. It has been recently recognized that these physical properties also make aramid fibre well suited for improving the performance of asphalt concrete for cracking and rutting resistance. The use of fibre reinforced asphalt concrete pavements (FRAP or FRAC) is starting to gain momentum within British Columbia and in other parts of Canada. This technology has been used in municipal and provincial roadway projects, as well as airports and heavy commercial applications. This presentation will discuss the usage of aramid fibre as it has been applied to fibre reinforced asphalt pavements within British Columbia.

Speaker: Michael J. Simons, P. Eng., Product Manager, Roadway Systems, Nilex Inc.

This presentation will focus on how user-friendly control systems play a pivotal role in the training of new operators in the roadbuilding sector; as well as offer a look at new options now available for classroom and hands-on training.

Speaker: Jim Holland, Vice-President of sales, Vögele

The acceptance of intelligent compaction (IC) continues to grow in North America. In the U.S., many states have already written IC into specifications and requirements. There are also contractors using the technology in states without specific requirements. As density specifications increase, more and more contractors are employing IC technology as another quality control tool to ensure compaction is uniform and consistent. Canada is also looking into IC technology as a way to improve pavement quality and life. Many studies have shown higher uniform density of bases and pavement structures result in longer roadway life. Uniformity of compaction coverage also contributes to smoothness for which incentives have become more common. This presentation will include a general overview of what intelligent compaction is and why road authorities and contractors are using the technology during the compaction process. It will highlight various manufacturers’ IC solutions, and illustrate how the fundamentals of intelligent compaction can enhance roadway construction.

Speaker: Mark Eckert, Product Manager, Compaction, Volvo Construction Equipment.

The BC Construction Safety Alliance has developed the Silica Control Tool as a resource for the construction industry in B.C. The tool assists employers in conducting appropriate risk assessments and implementing effective controls and safe work practices where RCS dust may be an occupational hazard. Through the compilation of data relating to RCS dust exposures pertaining to various materials, tools and tasks in construction, the tool can predict the expected exposures to workers under similar conditions. The tool has been available in B.C. since spring 2017; and is being continually updated to keep pace with technological developments. Other jurisdictions around the world have expressed interest in his made-in-B.C. tool. Learn all about how it can help protect your workers.

Speaker: Dr. Melanie Gorman Ng, Senior Research Scientist, BC Construction Safety Alliance (BCCSA).

This presentation will focus on how infrared heaters are changing how paving contractors create new, and maintain old, pavements.

Speaker: Bob Kieswetter, P.Eng, president, Heat Design Equipment.

This presentation will establish what dynamic (mobile/web) dispatch of subcontractors is and why people are seeing out a solution like this. He will provide context of what was possible two to five years ago, and what is possible now. It will provide a holistic view of technology use in the aggregate industry. Noah will talk about multiple companies launching mobile-based applications and web platforms to support aggregate supply chains and workflows – focusing on what is motivating this across the aggregate and trucking industries. This session will include a case study on TREAD’s work with Lafarge GTA Aggregates related to subcontractor hauler safety.

Speaker: Noah Dolgoy, CEO and founder of Tread.

Transport Canada recently released regulations regarding RPAS operated in visual line of sight. They will establish the foundation for Canadians to be able to fully leverage these aerial tools. Through online registration and knowledge testing, we will have safer skies and a clear path to compliance. Local drone expert Kate Klassen of Coastal Drone Co. will discuss the opportunities and challenges that still face this industry and your best approach to implementing successful drone operations of your own.

Speaker: Kate Klassen, director of operations, Coastal Drone Co.