ogy and artificial intelligence (AI) tools, and identify the best tools and software to augment our safety culture and sys- tems. And finally, we’re also addressing the leadership aspects of safety, the soft skills that are needed to really elevate yourself and grow your career. Tose are just a few of the topics we’re addressing at our monthly meetings.


California Constructor: Speaking of AI and technology, how big a topic is that for the SHC’s agenda and what impact is it having?


Robert Rodriguez: Te rate at which technology is advancing is something we’ve never experienced before. I think leveraging those technological advance- ments is a key part of any safety culture and safety program in a company, wheth- er it is using artificial intelligence tools that are integrated into that system or using GPS and other telematics info that are integrated into devices that go onto fleet vehicles or equipment. Some camera systems, for example,


not only have outward-facing cameras but also can be installed inside the truck. With that AI integration, they can detect when someone is falling asleep, if someone is distracted, or other forms of bad safety behaviors within that vehicle cab. And then they share that information with safety professionals so we can better protect our people. And that is really what it’s all about.


California Constructor: Te Safety & Health Council has long been known for helping members navigate regulatory or legislative changes that impact them. What are some of the latest changes you are following?


Robert Rodriguez: There are always changes in the regulatory landscape in


AGC of California, Teichert Plan May Mental Health Standdown Event


AGC of California and Teichert Construction will bring together construction work- ers and industry representatives from the Northern California Laborers, Operators, Carpenters, Caltrans, and more for a Mental Health Standdown and media day on May 22, 2026. Hamilton Baiden, CEO of Youturn Health, is slated to deliver the keynote address


during the Northern California event at a Teichert jobsite in Northern California. The event, held as part of May Mental Health Awareness month, highlights the


AGC of California Safety & Health Council’s ongoing, multi-year effort to provide tools and resources on mental health issues that disproportionately impact the construction industry. Construction has one of the highest rates of substance use disorders and suicide among workers of any industry in the United States. In partnership with its member contractors, AGC has worked to raise awareness


of the importance of mental health support, sponsoring annual mental health media days and standdown events since hosting its first such event, keynoted by then-U.S. Secretary of Labor Marty Walsh, in 2022. For more information, visit AGC online at www.agc-ca.org or contact AGC of California Senior Safety & Regulatory Manager Tresten Keys at keyst@agc-ca.org.


this safety field. At our last meeting we had a representative from CalOSHA Con- sultation go through recent changes they have made. New legislation also kicked in early this year that affects the industry, including the fact that the remaining Covid-19 requirements just sunset in February 2026. In January 2026, there were changes in the regulations gov- erning training records and how those are supposed to be maintained within organizations. Staying on top of all those things is important for all of us. We have several subcommittees within


the Safety & Health Council that focus on different topic areas, including regulatory issues, mental health, traffic and work zone safety, and highway safety. We also have a subcommittee focused on professional growth and certification. It’s important for us to understand the key changes so we can educate our members. On the legislative front, as new legislation is proposed, we


review it and provide our input so legislators have our industry’s perspective.


California Constructor: What impact do you think the AGC of California Safety & Health Council is currently having within the California construction industry?


Robert Rodriguez: I think we’re having a tremendous impact. Tere are so many things that impact how we work. Keeping up with those things is imperative for any company. So raising awareness is a key part of what we do for members. But we also want to encourage and


drive change in the industry, whether it’s advancements in personal protective equipment, how we manage safety, the approach to mental health issues, or the skill sets safety professionals are building to be effective. All these things tie together to drive real improvements and momentum in our industry for safety and health.


CALIFORNIA CONSTRUCTOR MAY/JUNE 2026


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