Top Wellbeing Trends for 2026
Before we know it, 2026 will be here. As the year draws to a close, a question often at the forefront of business and consumer conversations is: What are the next major shifts in wellness? The industry is constantly evolving, but based on emerging predictions and market analyses, here are key wellbeing trends anticipated for 2026:It’s still about AI Personalized Health and Wearables: Oura Ring. Garmin. Apple Watch. Smart rings and watches are still hot on the trends list. These devices track individual
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Understanding the Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) Requirements by Eric Rogers, Wagstaff + Rogers Architects
Table of ContentsUnderstanding the Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) RequirementsThe Recent Change: Why Marin County Banned Wood Exteriors for 2026What This Means for Builders, Homeowners, and BuyersArchitecture in WUI ZonesMarin in ContextNot Just a Local TrendWhat This Means for ClientsAdapting to the Realities of WUI LivingUnderstanding the Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) Requirements Learn how Marin County’s updated 2026 WUI requirements impact new construction, remodels, siding materials, and
Safety & Training Short: Electrical Safety - Voltage Testing
Hazards of voltage testing: Anyone performing electrical measurements must understand the safety hazards associated with this task and be certain that their tools meet code requirements. Persons testing voltage on energized equipment or for verification on locked out equipment can be injured if test instruments are not appropriately applied or the wrong instrument is used for the job. Make sure your instrument is appropriately rated for the equipment being tested:Qualified persons need to be trained to
Design Development: Buildable Architectural Solutions by Eric Rogers, Wagstaff + Rogers Architects
During each architectural phase, our goal is to guide clients with clarity and intention. As Bay Area architects, after the conceptual foundation of Schematic Design is developed and approved, the project transitions into buildable architectural solutions with a deeper, more technical phase known as Design Development, the second of the 5 Basic Architectural Services. This stage represents the shift from big “pie in the sky” ideas to coordinated, buildable architectural solutions. It is where your
Fire Smart Yards: A Visual Guide for Landscapers - A FIRE SAFE MARIN Publication
Check out the Fire Smart Yards flipbook – a bilingual (English + Spanish), photo-rich guide to designing beautiful, fire-resilient landscapes. Created with input from local landscape professionals, this flipbook offers practical tips and inspiring visuals on mulch, spacing, tree care, and more. Whether you’re a seasoned pro, a hobby gardener, or just curious about fire-smart landscaping, this is for you. View It here. This guide provides a brief overview of the main principles of fire smart landscaping,
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Dinsmore & Shohl - California's 2026 Employment Law Shake-Up: What Employers Need to Know
Starting in 2026, California employers face sweeping changes that redefine workplace compliance. From expanded employee rights and pay transparency to stricter rules on repayment agreements and gratuity enforcement, these new laws require immediate attention. We’ve compiled a detailed list of the key updates and deadlines so you can prepare now and avoid costly missteps. Senate Bill 294 Effective January 1, 2026, SB 294 establishes the Workplace Know Your Rights Act. Under this law, employers are
Getting Paid for Costs of the Government Shutdown
Now that Congress has passed a budget ending the government shutdown, contractors are left wondering how and when they will be compensated for costs incurred due to the government shutdown. This post explores how government contractors can recover not only the cost of work performed during the government shutdown, but also additional costs arising specifically from the shutdown. In order to get paid for impacts, contractors must understand: Shutdown Basics and Delayed PaymentPartially Funded
Safety & Training Short: Space Heater
Objective: To reinforce awareness of the potential dangers involved with space heater use.Understanding the Dangers Many people use portable and in-wall gas or electric space heaters to warm their workplaces, offices, or a room at home. Failing to follow important safety instructions can cause fires and serious injuries, including burns and carbon monoxide poisoning, or even death. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions when operating a portable heater.Click here to download the training short in
Accounting for Tariffs in Construction Contracts
President Donald Trump has implemented his “America First” trade policy throughout 2025 by implementing a sweeping set of tariffs aimed at reducing U.S. reliance on foreign goods. The tariffs, which have fluctuated since January, have included threats of a 145% tariff on goods imported from China, a 50% tariff on steel and aluminum, and a 10% universal import tariff on all goods entering the U.S. With the proposed tariffs constantly fluctuating, the impact has quickly rippled through the construction
Conditional Logic - What Contractors Should Be Aware Of
Conditional Logic - Contractors should be aware that notice of default can be an express condition precedent to a surety's performance bond obligation. The importance of timely and effective communication on construction projects cannot be overstated. This is particularly important in the context of a contractor seeking to preserve its rights as obligee on a performance bond when the underlying principal has failed to perform. Although contractors and sureties are key partners on bonded projects, they
Safety & Training Short: Head Protection
Objective: To familiarize employees with common types of head protection and best practices for their use. The brain is the control center of your body. If it’s damaged in any way, your entire body will be at risk! Normally, your skull protects your brain from injury, but when falling or flying objects are a hazard, additional protection must be worn.Common Hazards that Require Head Protection Workplace hazards that could cause injury to the head include: Falling objectsContact with protruding or fixed
California’s October State Law Updates: What Employers Need to Know
Throughout October 2025, California Governor Gavin Newsom signed multiple employment-related Bills into law. These new measures address a wide range of workplace-related matters, including regulations aimed at the use of artificial intelligence, updates on paid leave, and amendments to mediation procedures. While some of these Bills will be subject to legal challenges that delay or block their application, many took effect immediately or will become effective on January 1, 2026. Accordingly, California
2026 Employee Wellness Benefits Trends
Before we know it, the holiday season will be over, and we'll be starting 2026. As 2025 draws to a close, it’s time to look ahead. The landscape of employee wellness benefits is rapidly evolving, driven by the need for more comprehensive, personalized support. Understanding these trends now will ensure your organization is prepared for 2026.Trend 1: Holistic, Individualized Care The future of benefits is holistic, with a renewed and necessary focus on financial and mental health.Addressing the Financial
Marin Builders Association Members: Save on your Workers' Comp!
Workers Comp Insurance Fraud: It costs more than you think
For more information, download this printable brochure here or contact: Marin County District Attorney's Office Attn: Insurance Fraud Unit 3501 Civic Center Drive, Room 130 San Rafael, CA 94903 415.473.6450co.marin.ca.us/da
New Law Changes in 2025 Affecting Licensees, Applicants and Stakeholders
Sacramento, CA – The Contractors State License Board (CSLB) is advising licensees, applicants, and other stakeholders of key legislative updates following the implementation ofSenate Bill 1455 (Ashby, 2024). This bill, effective January 1, 2025, extends the Board’s “sunset” date from 2025 to 2029 and makes other changes to the law, which are described below. Key Provisions of SB 1455 1. Public Works Project LicensingWhat’s New? Awarding authorities must now ensure that public works project bidders