High-Profile: September 2026 | Page 10

10 High-Profile Focus: Up-Front

September 2026

Providence, RI— Construction workers face a disproportionately high risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke compared to employees in many other industries. Long work hours, high stress, tobacco use, poor nutrition, and limited opportunities for regular physical activity contribute to increased health risks for workers throughout the construction trade.

To address these challenges, construction and industry leaders across Southern New England are joining forces through the American Heart Association’ s Hard Hats with Heart initiative. Now in its third year, the campaign brings together executives and industry professionals committed to improving workforce health, advancing stroke and heart disease awareness, and strengthening emergency preparedness on jobsites throughout Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and Connecticut. The campaign will be chaired by Bob Kunz, corporate safety director for Dimeo Construction Company.

“ Construction is one of the most rewarding careers there is – but its

Bob Kuntz

demanding schedules and high-pressure environments have a way of pushing aside the habits that sustain us, from regular exercise to eating well, and that unrelenting stress takes a cumulative toll on both mental and cardiovascular health,” said Kunz.“ I’ m honored to chair the 2026 Hard Hats with Heart campaign because I believe the men and women who build our world deserve the same investment in their well-being as they give to everything they build.”

Throughout 2026, Hard Hats with Hearts leaders will champion conversations about employee wellbeing and encourage healthy lifestyle changes. Participants also will promote the implementation of workplace cardiac emergency response plans, written protocols that help ensure workers

60 PENHALLOW PORTSMOUTH, NH

COMMERCIAL FRAMING, DRYWALL & ACOUSTICAL

Photos by Rob Karosis Photography

receive immediate care during a cardiac arrest emergency.

“ Construction professionals dedicate themselves every day to building our communities, and they deserve the tools and resources to protect their own health as well,” said Gretta Jacobs, development director for the American Heart Association.“ Hard Hats with Heart empowers industry leaders to prioritize heart health, stroke prevention and emergency preparedness while creating a culture that

Boston, MA— The Massachusetts Port Authority( Massport) begins the second phase of runway safety improvements at Boston Logan later this month, with work expected to be completed before Thanksgiving. This phase continues installation of the Engineered Material Arresting System( EMAS) at the end of Runway 27, building on work completed last fall. To accommodate construction, Runway 9-27 will be closed, with only very limited availability, for 75 days starting Aug. 31.

The runway closure is necessary to complete the project. During this period, Boston Logan will have reduced runway capacity, which may impact the number of aircraft that can safely arrive and depart. Travelers may experience delays, particularly during periods of inclement weather, air traffic constraints, or other operational disruptions. Massport has coordinated the construction schedule closely with its airline partners and the FAA.

Residents of Winthrop may hear

supports healthier employees and safer jobsites across Southern New England.”

The accomplishments of the 2026 Hard Hats with Heart campaign will be celebrated at the Third Annual Southern New England Hard Hats with Heart event on Oct. 29, 2026, at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Warwick, RI. Held on World Stroke Day, the event will recognize industry leaders who are helping build healthier hearts, healthier minds and healthier workplaces throughout the region

construction activity, including pile driving, during portions of the project. All construction work will take place during approved daytime hours. As part of the project, a deck supporting the EMAS will be constructed partially over the water. This work does not extend the length of the runway.

EMAS is a safety feature used at Boston Logan and other airports where space beyond the runway is limited by nearby water or changes in terrain. The system is made of lightweight, crushable materials designed to safely stop an aircraft that overruns the runway. Given Boston Logan’ s geography, EMAS plays a particularly important role in maintaining airfield safety. The technology is used at airports worldwide and has prevented numerous serious incidents. Boston Logan currently has two other EMAS installations in service, one at the end of Runway 22R and another at the end of Runway 33L. Worcester Regional Airport also has an EMAS at each end of Runway 11-29.

Now Located at:

276 Bridge Street Springfield, MA 01103

MANCHESTER, NH | PORTLAND, ME | WESTPORT, MA | ELMSFORD, NY WWW. METROWALLS. NET

Geotechnical | || Environmental | || Hazardous Materials 413.788.6222 www. oto-env. com hello @ oto-env. com www. high-profile. com