Generally, high schoolers and beam welders do not mix. However,
administrators have praised the renovation crew’s concern for safety,
communication and efficiency.
“Construction crews are kept well informed of school hours and bell
times,” FCPS field construction representative Dennis Howard said.
Crews make sure to keep work near the trailers and the often crowded
corridor of door five minimal during school. When the building is used
after school hours, crews do not do work, such as welding, that might
lead to dangerous conflicts.
Workers are kept updated on school events, such as sports games and Back To School night.
Most buildings built in the 60s, such as the school building, used
asbestos as a key construction material. However, “all exposed asbestos
in the building has been safely removed or is scheduled to be removed,”
Howard said.
Most safety hazards like tractors are outside the building near the trailers.
“Drive slowly,” officer Harrington warns. “There is a lot of heavy equipment in the back lots.”
With more than 50 contractors working on the renovation, communication is a necessity.
Jeff Litz, the administrator in charge of the construction, has especially praised the crew’s communication with faculty.
The school administration and construction managers have daily meetings to discuss safety issues.
Teachers feel that construction crews are working hard and completing their assignments in a timely manner.
“When the crews say they will do something, they do it,” physical education teacher Bill Lapthorn said.
Torrential rain in September delayed construction by less than a day and one issue regarding permits was resolved quickly.
While staying safe, students have the first turnover of the renovation
to look forward to. The new science and elective wing behind the current
science classrooms is expected to be finished by next October.