Texas Gov. Greg Abbott recently issued an order identifying industries considered essential during this pandemic. I was pleased that he included construction on the list.

Accidents occur for many reasons. In most jobsites people tend to look for "things" or “people” to blame when an accident happens, because it's easier than looking for "root causes."

During these trying times created by the COVID-19 virus, it struck me just how important the construction industry is, and specifically the craft workers that build our structures. It is not a coincidence that those that make up the construction industry are considered essential along with first responders, healthcare workers, and grocery store employees, among others. The people that fill these critical positions are the foundation of our society. If you aren’t sure of that, just imagine the chaos that would reign without them.

Construction work is considered and essential business, as our industry is responsible for keeping, highways, office buildings, hospitals, chemical plants, schools, churches, arenas and shopping centers. As the situation keeps developing, we will continue to review all official government orders and updates. Your supervisor will advise you on the specifics in your location as new information becomes available.