OCS Influencer John Kenney says that fatigue affects judgement.

Every summer, contractors remind their crews to drink water, wear sunscreen and take breaks. That's good advice, but after more than four decades in construction, I've learned those reminders alone don't create safer jobsites. 

Heat-related incidents rarely happen because someone didn't know it was hot outside. They happen because production pressure begins to outweigh good decision-making. 

Whether you're building pools, installing hardscapes or creating complete outdoor living environments, summer brings longer days, tighter schedules and customers who want projects finished before family gatherings and vacations. It's easy for crews to push harder, skip breaks and convince themselves they'll "power through" another hour. 

That's when mistakes happen. 

One lesson I've carried throughout my career is this: fatigue affects judgment long before it affects effort. 

A crew member may still be working hard, but dehydration and heat stress can quietly reduce concentration, slow reaction time and increase the likelihood of poor decisions. In construction, small lapses in judgment often become expensive accidents. 

That's why summer safety needs to be viewed as an operational issue, not simply a compliance requirement. 

Good companies don't leave hydration up to chance. They plan for it. 

Water should be readily available throughout the day, not just during lunch. Supervisors should encourage crews to hydrate consistently instead of waiting until they're thirsty. By the time someone feels dehydrated, they're already behind. 

Scheduling also deserves attention. Whenever practical, physically demanding work should be planned during the cooler morning hours, with less strenuous activities scheduled later in the afternoon. That doesn't always happen perfectly, but thinking through the day's workload before the crew leaves the yard often prevents unnecessary exposure during peak heat. 

I've found that the best supervisors pay attention to people, not just production. 

They notice when someone becomes unusually quiet, starts making simple mistakes or begins moving differently than they did earlier in the day. Those changes often appear before obvious signs of heat illness. Experienced leaders understand that checking on a crew member isn't slowing production, it's protecting it. 

Pool construction presents additional challenges because crews are often working around excavation, concrete placement, plumbing installations and electrical systems, sometimes all on the same project. As multiple trades move through the jobsite, maintaining good housekeeping and communication becomes even more important. Materials, tools and equipment should remain organized so workers can move safely through constantly changing work areas. 

Service technicians face different risks. Equipment pads, mechanical rooms and enclosed spaces around pool systems can become extremely hot during the summer months. Rushing through inspections or repairs because "it's only a quick service call" can lead to shortcuts that increase both safety and quality concerns. 

Personal protective equipment also deserves attention during hot weather. I've heard every reason why someone wants to remove gloves, eye protection or other required equipment when temperatures climb. But safety equipment only protects people when it's worn consistently. The solution isn't eliminating PPE, it's selecting equipment designed for comfort while maintaining protection and reinforcing why those standards matter. 

The companies that consistently perform well understand something many contractors overlook. Safety isn't a separate program that gets discussed once a month. It's part of how work is planned every single day. 

When supervisors discuss weather conditions during morning meetings, adjust workloads based on heat, encourage hydration and watch for signs of fatigue, they're doing more than preventing injuries. They're protecting quality, productivity and the well-being of the people who make the business successful. 

I've always believed that the safest crews aren't the ones that work the slowest, they're the ones that work the smartest. 

Summer will always test outdoor contractors. The heat isn't something you can eliminate, but it is something you can manage. 

The companies that treat heat safety as part of operational planning, not just a seasonal reminder, will protect their crews, deliver better projects and build a culture where people know their safety matters every day of the year. 

By John Kenney, Cotney Consulting Group.

Consistent ladder safety protects your people, your productivity and your reputation.

Walk any outdoor jobsite — whether it's a landscaping project, a tile installation, a lighting upgrade, a pool equipment repair or an outdoor living build — and you’ll see the same tool used in all of them: the ladder. It’s one of the simplest pieces of equipment on a job, yet ladder-related injuries are among the most common across every segment of the construction and maintenance industry. 

Ladder accidents don’t happen because workers lack experience. They happen because ladders are familiar. Workers have climbed them throughout their careers and no longer view them as hazards. But a ladder doesn’t care how experienced you are. If it shifts, tips, slides or fails, the fall happens instantly. 

Ladders are a universal hazard 

Every segment in outdoor construction relies on ladders: 

• Tile and hardscape installers use them for exterior walls, elevated patios and overhangs. 
• Outdoor lighting crews climb them constantly for fixtures, wiring and tree-mounted applications. 
• Pool and spa techs use them for pump room access, elevated equipment and overhead reruns. 
• Landscaping teams use ladders for pruning, lighting, signage and seasonal work. 
• Maintenance technicians rely on ladders daily for repairs, adjustments and inspections. 

Yet despite this, most ladder injuries involve basic misuse — using the wrong type of ladder, placing it on unstable ground, overreaching or climbing with tools in hand. When tasks feel repetitive or “quick,” workers get comfortable. That comfort is precisely what leads to injuries. 

Choosing the right ladder is step one 

Not every ladder is the same, and using the wrong type is one of the most common mistakes. 

Key considerations: 

• Height: Workers should never stand on the top rung or top cap. If they need to reach higher, they need a taller ladder. 
• Duty rating: Ladders are rated for weight loads — including tools. Crews often ignore this, especially with heavy gear. 
• Material: For lighting, pool equipment and any electrical hazard, a fiberglass ladder is mandatory. 
• Style: Step ladders must be used fully opened and locked. Extension ladders must be set at a proper angle. 

The right ladder isn’t optional — it’s the foundation of safe climbing. 

Set it up correctly, every time 

A poorly placed ladder is an accident waiting to happen, and outdoor environments make this even more challenging. Grass, gravel, mulch, pavers and soil all shift under weight. 

Workers should: 

• Place ladders on level, stable ground 
• Use boards or stabilizers on soft surfaces 
• Anchor or tie off extension ladders when possible 
• Maintain the 4:1 angle (for every 4 feet up, set the base 1 foot out) 
• Clear the base area of hoses, cords, stones and debris 
• Keep ladders away from doorways, vehicle paths or active work areas 

In outdoor living projects, constant foot traffic and multi-trade overlap increase the chance of a ladder being bumped. The setup must anticipate this. 

Three points of contact — no exceptions 

Every climb — up or down should follow the same rule: two feet, one hand; two hands, one foot. 
This eliminates the single most significant cause of ladder falls: climbing while carrying tools or materials. 

Crews should always use: 

• Tool belts 
• Buckets with rope lifts 
• Ground assistants when needed 

If a worker can’t maintain three points of contact, they are not climbing safely. 

Overreaching is the silent ladder killer 

Most ladder falls don’t come from slips or rung failures — they happen when workers reach too far to one side. 

When a person leans outside the ladder’s rails, they shift the center of gravity. The ladder responds the same way every time: it tips. 

The solution is simple: 

• Climb down and move the ladder. 
• Never lean. 
• Never stretch. 
• Never “just reach a little more.” 

Those extra 10 seconds of repositioning prevent weeks or months of lost time. 

Inspect ladders as often as you use them 

Ladders take abuse on outdoor sites. They get thrown into trucks, set on uneven ground, exposed to moisture, left in heat and overloaded. 

Every ladder should be checked for: 

• Cracked rails 
• Bent rungs 
• Loose spreaders 
• Damaged feet 
• Missing labels 
• Worn non-slip surfaces 

If a ladder is damaged, it should be taken out of service immediately. Don’t tape it. Don’t brace it. Don’t “use it just one more time.” 

Make ladder safety a habit, not a message 

Crews respond to what supervisors enforce. When supervisors model proper ladder use, workers follow. When shortcuts go unaddressed, shortcuts become culture. 

Integrate ladder safety into: 

• Daily huddles 
• Toolbox talks 
• New-hire orientation 
• Job audits and site walks 
• Pre-task planning meetings 

When ladder safety becomes a standard expectation — not a lecture — crews adopt it naturally. 

No outdoor contractor can eliminate ladder use, but every contractor can eliminate ladder complacency. When workers slow down, set up correctly and climb with intention, they reduce the most universal risk across every trade. 

Ladder safety is not complicated — it’s consistent. And that consistency protects your people, your productivity and your reputation. 

By John Kenney, Cotney Consulting Group. 

Fall prevention and trip hazards across outdoor worksites.

Whether you're installing tile, setting pavers, running conduit for outdoor lighting, maintaining athletic turf or building a pergola, every trade shares the same silent threat: uneven, unpredictable walking surfaces. Most contractors think of fall hazards as working on roofs or ladders. But in outdoor living and exterior construction, the most common and most expensive fall injuries happen at ground level — right where crews walk all day.

What makes these incidents so dangerous is how ordinary they look. No one expects to fall while walking across a jobsite. Yet one misplaced step onto loose gravel, a hidden depression in the soil or a stray hose can put an experienced worker on the ground faster than any high-elevation risk. These aren't dramatic accidents. They’re the kind that pull a muscle, sprain an ankle, fracture a wrist or cause back injuries that linger for months. 

And because every segment you support operates outdoors — often on uneven, shifting terrain — the risk is universal. 

The jobsite changes every hour 

One of the biggest challenges in outdoor living and exterior work is that the jobsite never stays the same. Landscapers dig trenches. Hardscape movers move pallets and compact soil. Lighting contractors lay conduit. Pool and spa crews run plumbing. Irrigation teams open and close water lines. Material deliveries create new obstacles. Weather changes the ground beneath your feet. 

What was stable at 9 a.m. may be a hazard by noon. 

Walk-and-work areas change constantly, and if crews don’t adapt, injuries follow. The best contractors develop a habit of reevaluating the site throughout the day, not just during the morning huddle. 

Small obstacles, big consequences 

Trip hazards in outdoor and mixed-trade projects often include: 

• Uneven soil, ruts or slopes 
• Pavers or tiles staged near footpaths 
• Extension cords, hoses and string lines 
• Rebar stakes, edging pins or scrap material 
• Tools and equipment left mid-task 
• Mud, loose gravel or wet leaves 
• Unexpected grade changes 

Individually, these hazards look insignificant. Combined, they form a minefield that slows production and puts workers at risk. 

Too often, injuries occur while carrying materials, pulling a cart or simply walking, distracted by the task ahead. A worker doesn’t fall because the obstacle was huge — they fallbecause they didn’t see it coming. 

Housekeeping comes first 

Every jobsite has housekeeping rules, but not every jobsite enforces them. Outdoor contractors can’t afford to skip this step, especially with multiple trades working together. Good housekeeping isn’t about appearances — it’s a direct form of fall prevention. 

Effective housekeeping practices include: 

• Keeping walk paths free of tools and materials 
• Maintaining designated staging areas 
• Cleaning up debris continually, not just at the end of the shift 
• Securing cords and hoses away from travel zones 
• Filling, marking or blocking trenches and holes 
• Using temporary lighting for early mornings and late afternoons 

Walk a jobsite with a customer or inspector, and the first thing they notice is site organization. A clean site doesn’t just feel safe — it is secure. 

Footwear and awareness matter on every surface 

Outdoor crews work across surfaces that change throughout the day: wet grass, compacted gravel, synthetic turf, stone, clay, mulch, bare soil, decking and concrete. No single shoe will solve every problem, but worn-out soles, uncushioned knees and unstable platforms increase the risk of injury. 

Promoting proper footwear, anti-slip soles and regular replacement schedules goes a long way. But the most important factor is awareness — crews need to be reminded regularly to watch their footing when moving materials, using wheelbarrows, working around trenches or transitioning between surfaces. 

Production pressure creates blind spots 

When crews feel rushed, their focus narrows. They stop scanning the ground and focus only on the next task. That’s when they miss the edge of a trench or misjudge a slight elevationchange. 

Supervisors should emphasize that fast doesn’t mean safe — and safe doesn’t mean slow. The best crews find speed by working with intention, not by ignoring hazards. Reinforcing situational awareness during daily huddles makes it part of the culture. 

A safer jobsite begins with a safe path 

Fall prevention doesn’t require expensive equipment. It requires discipline — the discipline to clean as you go, to stage materials properly, to identify hazards early and to correct them before someone gets hurt. 

In outdoor-living, landscaping, tile, lighting and athletic-surfacing environments, the ground is your work platform. Protecting that platform protects your people. 

Every fall injury starts with a step. When crews take ownership of the ground beneath their feet — keeping it clear, stable and well-managed — they prevent accidents, improve efficiency and build safer, more professional jobsites across every segment of the outdoor industry. 

By John Kenney, Cotney Consulting Group.

Across all industries, slips, trips and falls are a leading cause of injury. In outdoor construction and maintenance, the risk increases exponentially.

On any outdoor jobsite — whether you’re building a patio, running electrical lines, maintaining irrigation, installing tile or servicing a pool — workers spend most of their day on their feet. That means the condition of the surface they’re walking, standing, kneeling or climbing on is one of the most important — and most overlooked — safety factors on the job. 

OSHA calls them walking-working surfaces, but most contractors know them by another name: the ground we work on. And in outdoor environments, the ground changes constantly. A surface that was stable an hour ago might be muddy now. A level walkway might turn into an obstacle course after materials are delivered or after another trade finishes their work. 

If your crews aren’t actively assessing the surfaces beneath them, they’re working blind to one of the most significant injury drivers across the entire outdoor living industry. 

The ground is always changing 

Unlike indoor jobs, where surfaces stay consistent, outdoor contractors deal with shifting terrain every single day. Soil compacts. Sand washes out. Concrete cures unevenly. Rain softens the grade. Excavation work creates ruts. Heavy equipment leaves grooves and depressions. Add in cords, hoses, tools, scrap, edging, forms, packaging, vegetation and loose materials — and suddenly the walking surface becomes a complex hazard environment. 

Across all industries, slips, trips and falls are a leading cause of injury. In outdoor construction and maintenance, where elevation changes, environmental conditions and multi-trade overlap occur constantly, the risk increases exponentially. 

High-risk surfaces crews encounter daily 

Almost every outdoor trade encounters these hazards: 

• Uneven ground from excavation, compaction or erosion 
• Loose gravel or stone around hardscape or landscape work 
• Wet turf or muddy soil after rain or irrigation 
• Slippery surfaces near pool equipment or water features 
• Construction debris such as tile shards, paver offcuts, roots, branches or packaging 
• Grade changes without warning markers 
• Transitions between surfaces — grass to stone, stone to soil, soil to decking 
• Temporary walk paths created by necessity, not design 

Most of these hazards don’t look dangerous until someone trips, slips or twists a joint. And by then, the injury is already done. 

The best crews reassess the ground constantly 

Walking-working surface safety isn’t a one-time check. It’s a continuous habit. 

The strongest crews: 

• Assess ground conditions before starting work 
• Reevaluate surfaces throughout the day 
• Adjust paths as work progresses 
• Mark hazardous areas immediately 
• Communicate changes to other trades 

Supervisors and foremen must reinforce these habits daily. When workers assume the surface is safe because it “was just fine earlier,” that’s when injuries occur. 

Material staging impacts surface safety 

How and where materials are staged can make — or ruin — a walking path. Poor staging leads to clutter, blocked routes and awkward detours. Good staging creates predictable, safe paths that crews can move through without constantly scanning for hazards. 

Every trade benefits when staging is done thoughtfully: 

• Hardscape prevents offcut debris from creating trip hazards. 
• Lighting contractors protect cords and conduits from becoming obstacles. 
• Landscapers keep tools and equipment clear of footpaths. 
• Pool technicians avoid water pooling in work zones. 

Staging isn’t just about production — it’s about protection. 

Good housekeeping protects the feet, knees and back 

Walking surface issues don’t just cause falls — they create musculoskeletal injuries. Uneven or unstable surfaces force workers to overcompensate with their footing, posture andbalance. Over a full shift, this takes a toll on the back, knees and ankles. 

Avoiding these injuries requires: 

• Frequent cleanup 
• Leveling temporary walk paths 
• Removing scrap and waste 
• Keeping hoses and cords organized 
• Addressing wet or slippery spots immediately 

These actions don’t cost time — they save it by preventing lost days and rework. 

Marking and barricading hazard zones 

Not every hazard can be fixed immediately. Sometimes you must mark it instead. 

Simple techniques go a long way: 

• High-visibility marking paint 
• Cones or stakes 
• Caution tape 
• Portable barricades 
• Signage identifying soft ground or uneven footing 

When multiple trades share space, communication and marking aren’t optional — they’re essential. 

Walking-working surface safety is everyone’s job 

Across all outdoor trades, from tile setters to pool technicians to landscapers and lighting installers, walking-working surface hazards remain one of the most common and preventable issues on the jobsite. When workers pay attention to the ground, when supervisors reinforce good habits, and when contractors treat housekeeping and staging as part of production — not an interruption — you instantly elevate both safety and efficiency. 

Safe jobsites don’t start with tools, PPE or training manuals. They start with the surface every worker stands on. Respect the ground and you protect your people. 

By Emma Peterson. 

John Kenney discusses three common contractor challenges and how to build your business beyond them. 

John Kenney has been around the trades and construction industries for a bit. He has over 45 years of experience as a contractor and has become an invaluable resource to professionals in his current position as CEO of Cotney Consulting Group. To tap into his expertise, we invited him to OutdoorCoffeeShop™ for an episode of From the Ground Up™. During the episode, John discussed the topic of scaling your business and shared his thoughts on how to overcome some of the top operational pitfalls that can stunt business growth.  

1 – Avoiding bringing in subcontractors 

The first issue that John highlighted was when contractors hesitate to hire subs. He shared, “I know a lot of contractors who want to be a full-service provider, but they also hesitate to hire subs. Instead, they invest a lot into specialization and trying to do everything in house.” Why is this an issue? By trying to get everything done in-house you run the risk of spreading your crew too thin, and by diving into a specialization, you lose out on jobs and profits if they fall out of the realm of your specialty. 

John’s advice? Find good subcontractors that you can hire. He explained:  

Contractors need to get used to where they're able to manage multiple subs under them so that when they encounter something not in their wheelhouse, they can say, ‘Hey, that's not within my wheelhouse to do in-house, but I can certainly get some trusted subcontractors that I'm willing to oversee and bring in to price this out for what you're looking for.’ By doing so, you are not only bringing in more business and profit, but you are also building a strong reputation for working with clients.  

2 – Missing the big picture 

Another issue he sees contractors encounter is getting caught up in the day-to-day due to a lack of strong structure and processes. He explained, “You will never get to the success level that you want to be at if you establish processes that let you step back... If you ever want to get to the point where you're working on your business instead of in your business every day, you have to document your processes.” 

Where does one start when it comes to a project as massive as documenting each of your processes and organizing your structures? John always recommends going back to the basics, the core parts of your business:  

You start with your estimating, because pricing is the foundation of success. Once that’s sorted, fix your operations and track what you’re doing. You can’t grow if you can’t measure your production... And then guess what happens? Profits are going to grow as you work on building a strong structure and foundation.  

3 – Investing in your people proactively 

And last but not least, John touched on the struggle of labor. This is not a new issue; labor issues go back more than four decades and have consistently given people trouble when it comes to growing and maintaining a successful business. John’s best recommendation for handling this? Invest in the people already there. He explained:  

The problem that we're having is entry level labor is harder to find and harder to keep. And it can be tempting to put all your resources into recruiting. But I argue that you should actually put the resources on workforce training within your company and building career paths. Because people want that, they want to see how your company will help them grow. Not only will this help you retain the talent you have, but it’s also something that will get around and draw in new talent. 

Want more tips on avoiding pitfalls and growing your business? Listen to the whole episode or Watch the recording.

By Emma Peterson. 

John Kenney explains the importance of specificity in contracts and other official paperwork. 

One of the most complex parts of running a business is navigating the legal landscape. From employee classification to payroll management, it can be a lot. But it is crucial that contractors don’t shy away from the legal paperwork just because it can be overwhelming. Yet, these things must be delt with, as contracts are more than just a piece of paper – they are protection for you, your people and your business. To learn more about avoiding costly paperwork mistakes, we invited John Kenney of Cotney Consulting Group to join us for an episode of From the Ground Up™. 

One of the biggest things that John highlighted was the importance of specificity in your contracts. He explained:  

A misunderstanding of scope is a silent killer. If your scope says something like, ‘complete installation per plans or complete installation per our owners,’ then you basically accepted everything. Even if it wasn't in your estimate, you own it. So, that's why you have to be very careful about what you're signing up for and make sure that your language is very specific. 

The result of this lack of scope is not only frustrating for your timeline, but it can also be a business-killer. John explained, “Issues with misunderstood scope causes profit to quietly disappear. Take this as an example, maybe you’re working on a pool or irrigation system and there’s underground work. You have to make sure scope and responsibility is clear, because if it’s not you might become the contractor in charge of all the utility coordination on the project and suddenly you have permits and inspections and all these unexpected costs.” 

How do you avoid this problem? The answer is two-fold. One, make sure your contracts are written clearly. John elaborated on this, sharing, “Every contractor should have clear language in the contract.  If there's something that is ambiguous and it doesn't sound right, then more than likely it's going to get you into trouble later on down the job and defending yourself from that is going to take two to three times more time and a lot more money than getting your contract in order with an attorney before a project starts.” 

Two, make sure all your teams are on the same page. John explained: 

I’ve seen it often; a field team proceeds with extra work without the proper written approval. And then you send the invoice, and the customer is looking at their original contract, saying, ‘Wait a minute, we didn't authorize that. We shouldn’t pay.’ And if you don't have an approved change order to point to, that customer is actually right. So, you have to make sure all your teams know to wait for a written change order that shows the change in your contractual obligations before anything happens. 

At the end of the day, the legal paperwork might seem frustrating and tedious, but it is always better to make sure it’s all clear and aligned before a project than to deal with the fallout of ambiguity down the line. As John put it, “Remember, it’s not just a piece of paper. They're going to bind you to a lot of things you're not going to want to be bound to unless you understand them. So, if it's not clear and it's not included or clearly excluded, then you're exposed and it's definitely going to be a financial problem for you.” 

Listen to the podcast or Watch the recording to learn more about managing the legal paperwork that keeps your operations protected and profitable. 

OCS Influencer John Kenney says contractors who invest in training, embrace cross-training opportunities and foster mentorship are building more than crews; they're building future leaders.

If you talk to almost any contractor in the outdoor living, landscape or pool construction business today, you'll hear a familiar concern: Finding good people is hard. Finding good people who stay is even harder. 

Labor challenges aren't unique to outdoor trades. Still, the seasonal nature of the work, increasing demand and competition for skilled workers have made workforce development one of the biggest challenges facing the industry. The companies that continue to grow aren't necessarily the ones paying the most or offering the newest equipment. More often, they're the ones who have figured out how to create a workplace where people can build a future. 

I've spent most of my career working with contractors across the construction industry, and one thing has remained consistent. The companies with the strongest crews view workforce development as a long-term investment, not a short-term hiring exercise. 

One of the first shifts that needs to happen is how these careers are presented. Too often, outdoor construction, landscaping and pool installation are viewed as temporary jobs rather than skilled professions. That's a mistake. 

These industries offer opportunities for people to learn technical skills, manage projects, supervise crews and build rewarding careers. Whether someone starts installing pavers, maintaining pools or assisting with landscape construction, there should be a visible path for growth. When employees can see where they are headed, they're more likely to stay committed to the company and help it get there. 

Cross-training is one of the most effective tools available to support that growth. 

Many outdoor contractors operate in related service areas. Pool builders often work alongside landscape contractors. Maintenance teams interact with installation crews. Hardscape professionals coordinate with irrigation specialists. Those connections create opportunities to develop broader skill sets across the workforce. 

Cross-training benefits both employees and employers. Workers gain valuable experience and become more versatile. Contractors gain flexibility when scheduling crews and managing workload fluctuations throughout the year. During slower periods in one area of the business, employees may be able to contribute in another, helping stabilize both staffing and production. 

I've seen companies significantly reduce turnover simply by exposing employees to multiple aspects of the business. People are more engaged when they're learning, developing and expanding their capabilities. Repeating the same task every day eventually leads to burnout. Learning new skills creates opportunity. 

Mentorship also plays a major role in retention. 

Most skilled tradespeople can point to someone who helped them early in their career. It may have been a foreman, a supervisor or an experienced technician who took the time to explain not just how something was done, but why. Those moments matter. 

The best contractors create environments where that knowledge transfer happens naturally. Experienced employees understand that part of their role is helping develop the next generation. New employees gain confidence because they know they have someone to turn to when challenges arise. 

Mentorship doesn't require a formal program or complicated structure. Often, it starts with leadership recognizing the value of experience and encouraging seasoned employees to share what they've learned. 

The companies that excel at workforce development also recognize that retention goes beyond compensation. Competitive pay is important, but employees also want consistency, communication and respect. They want to know what's expected of them and how they contribute to the company's success. 

Strong cultures are built through daily interactions. Clear expectations, honest communication and opportunities for advancement create an environment where people want to stay. When employees feel valued and see a future for themselves, loyalty follows. 

The outdoor living and pool industries continue to grow, but that growth will depend heavily on the ability to develop and retain skilled people. Contractors who invest in training, embrace cross-training opportunities and foster mentorship are building more than crews. They're building the future leadership of their companies. 

At the end of the day, projects don't build themselves. Success still comes down to people. The contractors who understand that — and invest accordingly — will be the ones best positioned for long-term growth. 

By John Kenney, Cotney Consulting Group.

Preventing back and knee injuries in hardscape work.

Hardscape work demands skill, strength and precision. Every day, crews lift stone, carry pavers, kneel on rigid surfaces and maneuver awkward loads into place. It’s some of the most physically demanding work in the outdoor living industry — and because of that, chronic back and knee injuries are far more common than most contractors realize. 

You don’t always see these injuries happen. They develop quietly over months and years. A worker kneels too long on a slab, twists while lifting a paver or spends an entire shift bending over in the same pattern. By the time the pain shows up, it’s often too late. And when an experienced installer goes down with an injury, productivity suffers, projects slowand companies lose the skill and craftsmanship that keep their reputations strong. 

What the job does to the body 

Hardscape crews spend much of their day in positions the human body wasn’t designed to maintain: bent over, kneeling, lifting, carrying and pivoting with weight. Unlike a single, sudden incident, these strains build up over time. A paver only weighs 20–30 pounds, but lifting hundreds of them in a day places continuous stress on the spine and joints. 

Knee pain is widespread. Extended kneeling on stone or compacted soil compresses the knee joint, inflames soft tissues and irritates existing injuries. Add in uneven terrain and constant up-down movement and you have a perfect recipe for long-term joint damage. 

Back injuries often follow the same predictable pattern. Workers pick up materials with rounded backs, twist while carrying loads or lift from awkward angles because the staging area wasn’t set correctly. Even the strongest worker can only do that for so long before something gives. 

Prevention starts with better planning 

Preventing strain doesn’t begin with equipment — it starts with job setup. If materials are staged too far from the work zone, crews will naturally lift and carry more than they should.By reducing unnecessary movement, you relieve excessive stress. 

Before work begins, foremen should evaluate: 

• Where pallets will be placed for the least manual handling 
• How tools and materials will flow through the job 
• Whether mechanical aids like carts, dollies or vacuum lifters can reduce repetitive lifting 
• How terrain affects footing and knee load 

Hardscape work requires planning for both layout and ergonomics. Ignoring one undermines the other. 

Teach crews the right way to lift 

Proper lifting is still one of the most effective ways to prevent back injuries. Train your crews to: 

• Bend at the knees, not the waist 
• Keep the load close to the body 
• Use both hands and avoid one-sided lifting 
• Step, don’t twist, when changing direction 
• Ask for help with oversized materials 

It sounds basic, but on busy jobsites, basic safety is often the first thing sacrificed. Reinforcement from foremen and lead installers is key. When supervisors model the right behaviors, crews follow their lead. 

Protect the knees — The crew’s most valuable tools 

Knee injuries sideline more hardscape workers than almost any other musculoskeletal issue. The fix isn’t complicated, but it requires consistency. 

Use: 

• Padded knee protection (hard-shell pads, gel pads or cushioned supports) 
• Kneeling boards or mats to distribute pressure on stone surfaces 
• Frequent position changes to avoid long-term compression 
• Rotation of tasks so workers aren’t kneeling all day 

Crews often resist knee pads because they’re uncomfortable or feel restrictive. Modern pads are far better than what we had 20 years ago. The right equipment makes a difference — and so does regular replacement. 

Mechanical assistance isn’t optional anymore 

Hardscape materials are heavier and larger than ever. Large-format pavers, oversized slabs and stone veneer panels require mechanical assistance. Too many contractors rely on “strong backs” instead of innovative tools. 

Lift-assist devices, vacuum lifters and powered carriers dramatically reduce strain. More importantly, they improve accuracy and minimize material breakage. When companies invest in ergonomic equipment, they invest in their people — and their production. 

Build a culture that doesn’t ignore pain 

Workers often hide discomfort to avoid slowing the crew, but pain is an early warning sign. Encourage installers to speak up before a minor strain becomes a serious injury. Create an environment where asking for help or using a mechanical aid isn’t seen as a weakness but as a sign of professionalism. 

A crew that feels valued takes better care of themselves, their tools and the job. 

A strong crew starts with strong practices 

Hardscape contractors depend on the skill and experience of their crews to deliver high-quality, long-lasting installations. Protecting back and knee health isn’t just a safety issue — it’s a business issue. Less fatigue means better workmanship. Fewer injuries mean more consistent staffing. And a company known for looking out for its people is a company workerswant to build a career with. 

The longevity of your team is one of your most important assets. When you prioritize ergonomic practices, you protect the craft, the crew and the future of your business. 

By Emma Peterson. 

Seasoned business consultant John Kenney dives into the traits of top-performing contractors. 

With over 45 years of experience as a contractor in the field prior to switching to his current role as a consultant, John Kenney of Cotney Consulting Group has seen a lot of businesses succeed, and a fair few fail as well. To share about what separates the successful companies from the rest, he stopped by OutdoorCoffeeShop™ for an episode of From the Gound Up™. 

The biggest thing that John highlighted as a marker of success is structure. He explained:  

Top performing contractors don't work project-to-project operations. They have operating procedures, SOPs, processes, structures, whatever term you want to use, that guide their operations. They know their numbers, their accurate burden rates, their equipment costs, their production rates, etc. They are not guessing because they have structure. 

Hand-in-hand with this structure, they have clear training and communication channels so their entire team can operate efficiently within that structure. John gave an example of what this looks like, sharing, “If you train your people correctly and you communicate with them extremely well, everyone knows what to do and it stops those common questions that slow things down, lead to issues and overall delay your operations.”  

In today’s digital era, making sure that you are choosing the right technology for your company is a key part of building a strong team and structure. John elaborated, “You need to get the technology that works for your business model. There are all kinds of software and technology out there. That doesn't mean it's all going to work for you. You've got to be able to ask the right questions and find the technology that works with the way you operate.” 

Overall, John’s advice for setting your business up for success comes back to systems and structure. As he put it, “Build your business around systems, not yourself. Contractors who win and become successful top performers in the next decade are going to be the ones who run operationally disciplined companies that are supported with the right technology and tools.”  

Listen to the whole episode or Watch the recorded conversation to learn more about building a successful business. 

OCS Influencer John Kenney says that the projects that stand out most are usually the ones that balance design with practicality.

Outdoor living projects have changed significantly over the last several years. What used to be considered an “extra” space has become an extension of how people live and entertain. Homeowners are spending more time outside, investing more in their properties and thinking differently about how outdoor environments should function year-round. As a result, contractors are seeing projects become more integrated, more customized and more focused on long-term usability. 

One of the biggest trends shaping outdoor projects right now is the move toward complete outdoor environments instead of isolated features. Clients are no longer asking only for a pool or a patio. They want spaces that work together — pools connected to seating areas, outdoor kitchens integrated into entertainment zones and fire features positioned to create gathering spaces that feel comfortable in every season. 

From a construction and planning standpoint, that changes how projects need to be approached. Contractors can no longer think about features independently. Drainage, lighting, traffic flow, utilities and material transitions all need to be considered as part of a larger design strategy. The most successful outdoor projects today feel connected rather than pieced together over time. 

Pools and spas continue to anchor many outdoor spaces, but the surrounding environment is becoming just as important as the water itself. More homeowners are prioritizing usability around the pool — shade structures, seating areas and outdoor dining spaces that encourage people to spend time outside beyond simply swimming. That shift is creating opportunities for contractors who understand how to coordinate multiple elements into one cohesive environment. 

Water features are also evolving. Instead of oversized or highly decorative installations, many projects are moving toward cleaner and more natural integrations. Sheer descents, scuppers, spillover spas and subtle water walls are being used to create movement and sound without overwhelming the overall design. In many cases, these features are designed to complement the architecture of the home rather than compete with it. 

Material selection is another area seeing noticeable change. Homeowners are gravitating toward finishes that feel natural, durable and lower maintenance. Earth tones, textured surfaces and materials that blend with the surrounding environment continue gaining popularity. Travertine, porcelain pavers, natural stone looks and mixed-texture hardscapes are all showing up more frequently in outdoor projects. 

At the same time, clients are paying closer attention to durability and long-term performance. Materials that hold up well under weather exposure and require less maintenance are becoming more attractive than purely decorative options. Contractors who can explain the difference between appearance and long-term performance tend to guide clients toward better decisions. 

Color trends are also shifting slightly. While lighter tones remain popular around pools because they help reduce heat absorption, there’s growing interest in contrast and layered textures. Darker accent features, natural wood tones and matte finishes are becoming more common in kitchens, pergolas and fire features. The overall look tends to feel more relaxed and organic rather than overly polished. 

Lighting continues to play an increasingly important role in outdoor design as well. Clients want spaces that function beyond daylight hours, and thoughtful lighting design helps extend usability significantly. Accent lighting around walkways, seating areas and water features adds both atmosphere and safety while helping outdoor spaces feel more complete. 

What I find most interesting is that homeowners are becoming more intentional with these investments. They’re not just building outdoor projects for appearance — they’re building spaces they plan to use regularly with family and guests. That mindset is pushing contractors to think more about comfort, functionality and long-term experience instead of simply installing features. 

For contractors, the opportunity goes beyond construction alone. Clients increasingly value guidance. They want help understanding how materials will age, how layouts will function and how different features will work together over time. Contractors who can provide that level of perspective position themselves as trusted advisors instead of simply installers. 

Outdoor living is continuing to evolve, but the projects that stand out most are usually the ones that balance design with practicality. Beautiful spaces matter, but spaces that function well, hold up over time and fit the way people actually live are the ones clients continue appreciating long after construction is complete.