Progress at the New St. Paul’s Hospital: A RWC Systems Update
As one of Vancouver’s premier walls and ceilings contractors, RWC Systems is proud to share an update on our pivotal role in the construction of the New St. Paul’s Hospital. This landmark project, situated on 18 acres just east of Vancouver’s downtown core, represents a significant step forward in healthcare accessibility for the residents of Vancouver. Upon completion, the campus will boast a 2 million square foot acute care hospital alongside a connected Clinical Support and Research Center, forming a world-class medical and research hub unparalleled in Canada.
New St.Paul’s Hospital Video Update
RWC Systems has been entrusted with a crucial phase of the construction, focusing on the interior and exterior infrastructure critical for the hospital’s functionality and comfort. Our responsibilities span the installation of steel studs, drywall, and acoustic ceilings across various parts of the hospital, specifically:
The interior of Podium levels 1 to 3,
Exterior walls on levels 1 to 11, and
The East Tower Interior of Levels 6 to 11.
This comprehensive task covers over 3.1 million square feet of framing, 1.7 million square feet of drywall, 429,000 square feet of acoustic ceilings, and the installation of over 4,200 doors and windows. To meet these ambitious targets, RWC has deployed an extensive team, with approximately 100 personnel on site at any given time and up to 30 people working on each floor.
Innovation and efficiency are at the heart of our operations. RWC has revolutionized the construction process for the exterior walls through an innovative prefabrication method. By assembling large sections of the exterior walls offsite and then quickly installing these panels on site, our team can install over 20 panels a day—significantly outpacing traditional construction methods. This approach not only enhances productivity but also plays a crucial role in keeping the project on schedule and within budget.
Furthermore, RWC is committed to integrating new technologies into our construction processes. We have transitioned to a completely paperless execution, with job boxes set up on every floor. These boxes allow personnel to access drawings and 3D models, facilitating a seamless flow of information. Additionally, the use of mobile tablets enables our team to access crucial information on the go, further boosting our efficiency and productivity.
The construction of the New St. Paul’s Hospital is a monumental undertaking that will continue to unfold in the coming years. RWC Systems is proud to contribute to a project of such importance and scale, and we are excited about its positive impact on healthcare provision in Vancouver and beyond. We believe that our commitment to innovation, efficiency, and quality will ensure this project’s success and set new standards in construction practices for healthcare facilities across Canada.
Stay tuned for more updates on the New St. Paul’s Hospital project and other initiatives from RWC Systems as we continue to build the future of healthcare infrastructure in Vancouver.
Elevating Walls and Ceilings Construction: Quality Control and Operations
By Travis Sloat, Director of Construction at RWC Systems
The significance of selecting the right drywall contractor must be balanced in large commercial projects. My extensive journey through the construction industry, culminating in my role as Director of Construction at RWC Systems, has given me insights into the pillars of exceptional construction: quality control and seamless operations.
The Pillars of Quality in Construction
Quality Control as the Foundation
Quality control is the foundation of exceptional construction work. At RWC Systems, we’ve built our quality control process to ensure it’s not just a phase but the essence of every step of our construction process. This rigorous approach ensures the conditions are correct, the right materials are used, tolerances are maintained and each phase follows the correct sequence. Our foremen, supervisors and a dedicated quality control team are pivotal in this process, equipped with direct access to the latest drawings and specifications through connected devices, ensuring they have the right information at their fingertips.
Embracing Technology for Efficiency
The traditional method of referring to plans and specifications located away from the actual construction site are inefficient and outdated. Recognizing this, we’ve integrated mobile-connected workstations on our job sites, on the floor where the work is being done This innovation allows for real-time access to project information, dramatically reducing the time wasted on information retrieval and significantly minimizing errors. These field office job boxes, equipped with internet-connected computers, are strategically placed close to the work areas, ensuring seamless access to the most current project details.
Specialization and Expertise
Quality in construction is not just about following plans but understanding the intricacies of each task. To this end, we employ trade specialists who possess deep expertise in their respective areas, such as framing, taping/finishing and specialty products. These specialists oversee the quality control in the field, ensuring it meets our stringent standards. In instances of workmanship not meeting RWC standards, our dedicated deficiency teams step in immediately, rectifying issues before they become deficiencies that our customers need to track. This approach saves valuable time for our customers without needing to track lengthy deficiency lists to close out projects.
Continuous Improvement
Our quest for excellence is ongoing. We continuously refine our quality control checklists that cover every conceivable aspect of our work, from material handling and layout to door frames and ceiling installations. This exhaustive attention to detail ensures that we preemptively address potential issues, maintaining a flawless execution standard.
Operational Excellence for Competitive Advantage
Innovative Construction Methods
In a mature industry, RWC Systems prides itself on innovation. As an example, our process of prefabricating exterior wall panels off-site, delivering them just in time, and developing work plans efficiently that utilize various tools and equipment to accommodate a wide variety of conditions has received acclaim for its speed and quality, demonstrating our commitment to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.
Optimizing Manpower
Our field superintendents play a crucial role in ensuring that we have the right people, with the right skills, on the right project, at the right time. This dynamic resource management allows us to adapt to the evolving needs of each project, ensuring that our workforce is skilled and aligned with the specific requirements of the task at hand. Our field superintendents work with our installers to constantly improve and ensure that our apprentices stay on track to develop the standard of the RWC ways. Our foreman and site superintendents are reviewed every quarter to ensure constant improvement and that we give our customers the highest standards. Our business leadership meets with our foreman and superintendents every quarter to get their feedback on what we can do to improve.
Cultivating a Unique Culture
At the heart of RWC Systems is a culture we call the “RWC Ways.” This culture emphasizes professionalism, respect, communication, and problem-solving. It’s visible on every project site and characterized by our team’s drive to excel and collaborate. Our approach to recruitment and retention focuses on aligning with individuals who embody these values, ensuring that our team is not just technically proficient but also a pleasure to work with.
Collaborative Progress
Our proactive approach extends to handling Requests for Information (RFIs). We believe in proposing solutions alongside any queries, accelerating the decision-making process and keeping projects on schedule.
Helping our partners on-site achieve their goals ensures that we meet ours. Meeting the schedule is one of the most important requirements of any project, and this collaborative spirit is not just about avoiding delays; it’s about contributing to a constructive, solutions-focused project environment.
Choosing the right drywall contractor is more than a matter of assessing technical capabilities. It’s about finding a partner committed to quality, innovation, and a positive project culture. At RWC Systems, we embody these principles, setting us apart as a leader in the construction industry. As you navigate the selection process, consider these facets to ensure your project not only meets but exceeds expectations, laying the foundation for success that lasts far beyond the construction phase.
People and Safety Management: The Cornerstone of Successful Projects
By Rup Dadwan, Director of Human Resources & Safety at RWC Systems
In the dynamic world of commercial construction, the success of large-scale projects hinges not just on technical skills or material quality, but fundamentally on the people executing the work and the safety standards guiding them. My journey across various roles and industries, culminating as the Director of Human Resources & Safety at RWC Systems, has reinforced my belief in the pivotal role of robust safety measures and human resources strategies.
Here are some insights on why these aspects are crucial in selecting the right drywall subcontractor for your project.
Safety: The Non-Negotiable Standard
At RWC Systems, safety isn’t just a checklist; it’s our culture’s backbone. Our dedication to safety is affirmed by our COR certification from the BC Construction Safety Alliance (BCCSA), demonstrating our compliance with the most stringent safety protocols.
This certification isn’t merely a badge; it demands continuous effort, including annual reviews and assessments, to ensure our safety practices are more than just current and compliant.
We’ve transcended traditional safety documentation through our investment in SALUS safety software. This innovative tool enables real-time analytics on safety performance, from tracking incidents and violations to conducting near-miss investigations. It’s a level of transparency and accountability that sets us apart, contributing to our notably low lost time days. In striving for zero lost time days and fatalities, we not only aim to protect our workforce but also to ensure uninterrupted progress on projects.
Why Safety Matters to Our Customers
A subcontractor’s safety record directly impacts project timelines and budgets. Our robust safety protocols mean fewer interruptions, keeping projects on track and within budget. It’s a commitment to efficiency and reliability that we take pride in, understanding that the true value of safety extends far beyond compliance—it’s about delivering unwavering quality and dependability to our customers.
People: The Heart of Excellence
The quality of a subcontractor’s workforce is pivotal. At RWC Systems, we go beyond mere recruitment; we’re invested in career development. By prioritizing candidates with relevant trade experience for leadership roles and supporting continuous education, we foster a culture of excellence. Our lead hands, foremen, and supervisors are not just skilled; they’re empowered to make on-the-spot decisions that enhance efficiency and reduce deficiencies.
Our approach to human resources is characterized by a commitment to upskilling and career progression. This investment in our people’s growth translates into superior service quality, with fewer inefficiencies and a proactive approach to problem-solving on site. It’s about creating a value chain of knowledge that benefits every project we undertake.
The RWC Systems Difference
Our unique structure, mirroring that of a general contractor, offers top-level commitment to safety and workforce excellence. This structure ensures that we have dedicated safety personnel, like our Corporate CSO and on-site CSOs, ensuring that safety standards are consistently met across all projects. This dedication to safety and our people-centric approach differentiates us, making RWC Systems a preferred partner in the construction industry.
Selecting the right drywall subcontractor involves looking beyond the immediate project needs to the underlying factors that determine success: the people and their safety. At RWC Systems, our commitment to these areas is constant, driven by a belief that excellence in construction is achieved not just through technical proficiency but through a deep commitment to every individual’s well-being and professional growth.
For general contractors embarking on large commercial projects, understanding the significance of safety and human resource management in your subcontractors is crucial. It’s about ensuring not only the timely and budget-conscious completion of your project but also fostering a work environment characterized by respect, safety, and excellence.
Choose a partner who shares these values, and you set the stage for success that is built on the most solid foundation there is: its people.
Mastering Preconstruction: Selecting the Right Drywall Subcontractor for Your Project
By Kevin Robertson, Director of Preconstruction at RWC Systems
In the complex world of commercial construction, the preconstruction phase is a foundational piece where a project’s success is laid. As the Director of Preconstruction at RWC Systems, I’ve seen firsthand how critical it is to select the right subcontractors during this phase, especially when it comes to drywall and ceiling systems.
Based on my experience in this sub-trade, here are some insights into what general contractors should look for in the estimating and tender phase to ensure they partner with the best drywall subcontractor for their large commercial projects.
1. Value Engineering: The Key to Cost Efficiency
Value engineering is a critical aspect of preconstruction, yet it’s often overlooked by many subcontractors. This process involves proposing alternative materials or solutions that meet the project’s design and architectural intent at a lower cost or with shorter lead times. At RWC Systems, value engineering is a staple in our approach. We consistently offer options that not only save costs but also maintain, if not enhance, the aesthetic and functional quality of the project. Look for a subcontractor who actively seeks to provide these alternatives, demonstrating their commitment to efficiency and innovation.
2. A Rock-Solid Estimate: The Foundation of Trust
A detailed and transparent estimate is non-negotiable. It should include a comprehensive list of inclusions and exclusions, leaving no room for ambiguity. This clarity prevents disputes down the line and ensures that both parties have a mutual understanding of the project scope. Our approach at RWC Systems involves asking detailed questions and, when possible, meeting with the general contractor early in the tender process. This dialogue allows us to tailor our services to the project’s specific needs, whether they be speed, quality, or cost-driven. Moreover, we factor in potential future inflation, providing estimates that reflect the true cost at the time of construction, not just the present moment.
3. Leveraging Experience from the Get-Go
The best subcontractors bring more to the table than just compliance with specifications; they bring expertise that can shape the project from its earliest stages. At RWC, we can engage with general contractors and architects during the schematic design phase, offering insights that can refine and improve the project’s design and feasibility. This proactive involvement ensures more accurate budgeting, reduces the likelihood of unforeseen issues, and enhances the overall project outcome.
Selecting the right drywall subcontractor in the preconstruction phase is about more than just ticking boxes; it’s about finding a partner who adds value at every step. Look for subcontractors who are not just reactive but proactive, offering solutions like value engineering, providing rock-solid estimates that consider future conditions, and leveraging their experience to contribute to the project’s design and planning. These qualities are the hallmarks of a subcontractor that will not just meet but exceed expectations, ensuring your project’s success from the ground up.
RWC Systems Awarded Contract For New St. Paul’s Hosptial East Tower
RWC Systems is excited to announce its recent success in securing the bid for the East Tower at the new St. Paul’s Hospital. This contract highlights our continued commitment to excellence in the construction industry, particularly in the healthcare sector.
The New St. Paul’s Hospital East Tower is part of the Jim Pattison Medical Campus. Located on 18 acres east of Vancouver’s downtown core, this campus is set to provide significantly improved healthcare to local residences with its 1.2 million square foot acute care hospital. It’s not just a hospital; it’s a hub for research, and compassionate care, aiming to transform the future of medicine, research, and seniors care in British Columbia.
RWC Systems’ Role
RWC Systems’ role in the East Tower at the New St. Paul’s Hospital in Vancouver will be 2.2 million square feet of drywall installation with a focus on levels 6 to 11 of the East Tower. This will mark our fourth collaboration at this landmark healthcare facility. This project is a testament to our expertise and commitment to quality in healthcare and hospital construction.
These projects showcase our ability to handle large-scale, complex projects in the healthcare sector, delivering quality and reliability every time.
RWC Systems Awarded Contract For UBC Applied Sciences Digital Design Studios
We are excited to announce that RWC Systems has been awarded the contract for the UBC Applied Sciences Digital Design Studio. This project aligns perfectly with our commitment to fostering excellence and innovation in commercial wall and ceiling construction.
About UBC Applied Sciences Digital Design Studio
Nestled in the heart of UBC’s Vancouver campus, the Digital Design Studio is set to be one of the largest creative facilities for students and faculty in the applied sciences. Spanning 11,755 gross square feet and valued at $12.86 million, this project is a beacon of modern educational design and collaborative learning spaces. It represents a space where design thinking, materials, and fabrication technologies come together to inspire the next generation of designers and thinkers.
RWC Systems Role
RWC Systems will be spearheading the construction of steel studs, drywall, and acoustic baffles for this project. Our team is geared up to ensure that every aspect of our work reflects the quality and precision RWC Systems is known for.