EMCOR Group Inc

Previous wording

Economic downturns have historically led to reductions in demand for our services. Negative conditions in the credit markets, including rising interest rates, may adversely impact our results of operations and our ability to operate our business. The level of demand from our clients for our services has been, in the past, adversely impacted by slowdowns in the industries we service, as well as in the economy in general. When the general level of economic activity has been reduced from historical levels, certain of our ultimate customers have delayed or canceled projects or capital spending, especially with respect to more profitable private sector work, and such slowdowns adversely affect our ability to grow, reducing our revenues and profitability. A number of economic factors, including financing conditions, the prices of commodities, and energy prices, have, in the past, adversely affected the industries we serve and our ultimate customers’ ability or willingness to fund expenditures. General concerns about the fundamental soundness of domestic and foreign economies may also cause ultimate customers to defer projects even if they have credit available to them. A prolonged stagnation or weakening in financial and macroeconomic conditions, including rising interest rates, supply chain challenges, inflation, and any continuing impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, could therefore have a significant adverse effect on our revenues and profitability.

Current wording

Economic downturns, recessions, or periods of slow growth have historically led to reductions in demand for our services. Negative conditions in the credit markets, including elevated interest rates, may adversely impact our results of operations and our ability to operate our business. The level of demand from our clients for our services has been, in the past, adversely impacted by slowdowns in the industries we service, as well as in the economy in general. When the general level of economic activity has declined from historical levels, certain of our ultimate customers have delayed or canceled projects or capital spending, especially with respect to more profitable private sector work, and such slowdowns adversely affect our ability to grow, reducing our revenues and profitability. A number of economic factors, including financing conditions, the prices of commodities, and energy prices, have, in the past, adversely affected the industries we serve and our ultimate customers’ ability or willingness to fund expenditures. General concerns about the fundamental soundness of domestic and foreign economies may also cause ultimate customers to defer projects even if they have credit available to them. A prolonged stagnation or weakening in financial and macroeconomic conditions, potentially including higher interest rates, supply chain challenges, inflation, or geopolitical impacts, could therefore have a significant adverse effect on our revenues and profitability.

Previous wording

We are exposed to market risk for changes in interest rates for any borrowings under our credit facility, which bear interest at variable rates. Throughout 2022 and much of 2023, the Federal Reserve Board increased the federal funds rate. Increases in benchmark interest rates impact our interest expense and cost of capital, which may adversely impact our ability to make payments on future outstanding debt, raise funds through the issuance of debt, fund capital expenditures or other liquidity needs. Any of these impacts may adversely affect our liquidity, results of operations, and financial position. For further information on our credit facility and associated borrowing rates, refer to Note 9 - Debt of the notes to consolidated financial statements included in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.

Current wording

We are exposed to market risk for changes in interest rates for any borrowings under our credit facility, which bear interest at variable rates. Although the Federal Reserve Board began to decrease the federal funds rate in 2024 after increases in 2022 and much of 2023, the pace and extent of additional decreases are uncertain. Increases in benchmark interest rates impact our interest expense and cost of capital, which may adversely impact our ability to make payments on future outstanding debt, raise funds through the issuance of debt, fund capital expenditures or meet other liquidity needs. Any of these impacts may adversely affect our liquidity, results of operations, and financial position. For further information on our credit facility and associated borrowing rates, refer to Note 9 - Debt of the notes to consolidated financial statements included in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.

Previous wording

Certain of our businesses, including those within our United States industrial services segment, are exposed to risks associated with the oil and gas industry. These risks, which are not subject to our control, include volatility in the price and production of crude oil, the development of and consumer demand for alternative energy sources, including as a result of a change in consumer preference, or in an effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions or combat climate change, and legislative and regulatory actions. In addition, macroeconomic conditions, influenced by a variety of events and circumstances, can also affect customer demand for our services within these businesses and lower prices and production volumes, or perceived risk thereof, typically results in the curtailment or deferral of spending by our customers. While higher prices for our customers’ products may increase demand for our services, significant increases in the price or demand for crude oil may also result in the short-term curtailment or deferral of spending by our customers, as facility downtime to perform certain of the services we provide comes at a higher opportunity cost. Continued volatility within these markets, including the impact of geopolitical instability, could negatively impact our financial position, results of operations, and cash flows.

Current wording

Certain of our businesses, including those within our United States industrial services segment, are exposed to risks associated with the oil and gas industry. These risks, which are not subject to our control, include volatility in the price and production of crude oil, the development of and consumer demand for alternative energy sources, including as a result of a change in consumer preference, or in an effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions or combat climate change, and legislative and regulatory actions. In addition, macroeconomic conditions, influenced by a variety of events and circumstances, can also affect customer demand for our services within these businesses and lower prices and production volumes, or perceived risk thereof, typically results in the curtailment or deferral of spending by our customers. While higher prices for our customers’ products may increase demand for our services, significant increases in the price or demand for crude oil may also result in the short-term curtailment or deferral of spending by our customers, as facility downtime to perform certain of the services we provide comes at a higher opportunity cost. Volatility within these markets, including the impact of geopolitical instability (such as disruption of shipping lanes), could negatively impact our financial position, results of operations, and cash flows.

Previous wording

Our business may be adversely affected by significant reductions in government spending, delays or disruptions in the government appropriations process or the failure to fund or implement recent legislation, including the CHIPS and Science Act of 2022 and the Inflation Reduction Act, both of which could benefit our business. Some of our businesses derive a significant portion of their revenues from federal, state, and local governmental agencies. As a result, reduced or delayed spending by the federal government and/or state and local governments may have a material and adverse impact on our business, financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows. Significant reductions in spending aimed at reducing federal, state, or local budget deficits, the absence of a bipartisan agreement on the federal government's budget or raising the debt ceiling (and any disruption caused by a federal government shutdown as a result thereof), renewed focus on budget deficits following increases in government spending in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, personnel reductions, the closure of government facilities and offices, or other changes in budget priorities could result in the deferral, delay, disruption, or cancellation of projects or contracts that we might otherwise have sought to perform. These potential events could impact the level of demand for our services and our ability to execute, complete, and receive compensation for our current contracts, or bid for and enter into new contracts with governmental agencies.

Current wording

Our business may be adversely affected by significant reductions in government spending, delays or disruptions in the government appropriations process or the failure to fully fund or implement legislation such as the CHIPS and Science Act of 2022 and the Inflation Reduction Act. Some of our businesses derive a significant portion of their revenues from federal, state, and local governmental agencies. As a result, reduced or delayed spending by the federal government and/or state and local governments, potentially including the reduction or elimination of funding for projects or other benefits under relevant legislation, may have a material and adverse impact on our business, financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows. Significant reductions in spending aimed at reducing federal, state, or local budget deficits, the absence of a bipartisan agreement on the federal government's budget or raising the debt ceiling (and any disruption caused by a federal government shutdown as a result thereof), personnel reductions, elimination of government agencies or programs, the closure of government facilities and offices, or other changes in budget priorities could result in the deferral, delay, disruption, or cancellation of projects or contracts that we might otherwise have sought to perform. These potential events could impact the level of demand for our services and our ability to execute, complete, and receive compensation for our current contracts, or bid for and enter into new contracts with governmental agencies.

Previous wording

Volatility in the prices or availability of certain materials and equipment used in our businesses and those of our customers, including as a result of inflation, geopolitical instability, and protectionist trade measures, could adversely affect our businesses. We are exposed to market risk of increases in certain commodity prices of materials, such as copper and steel, which are used as components of supplies or materials utilized in our operations. We are also exposed to increases in energy prices, particularly as they relate to gasoline prices for our fleet of approximately 13,800 vehicles. While we believe we can increase our prices to adjust for some price increases in commodities, there can be no assurance that price increases of commodities, if they were to occur, would be recoverable. Further, the timing of our price increases may lag the timing of the underlying increases in commodity or material prices. Additionally, our fixed price contracts generally do not allow us to adjust our prices and, as a result, increases in material or fuel costs could reduce our profitability with respect to projects in progress. For example, in recent years, we experienced supply chain delays, including long lead times for certain materials and equipment, as well as an escalation in material and fuel prices, to varying degrees. These disruptions resulted in declines in gross profit and gross profit margin for certain of our operations. Fluctuations in the price of energy and commodity materials, whether resulting from fluctuations in market supply or demand, geopolitical conditions, including supply chain disruptions and sanctions on Russian exports as a result of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and recent shipping lane disruptions following maritime attacks in the Gulf of Aden, an increase in trade protection measures such as tariffs, or the disruption, modification, or cancellation of multilateral trade agreements, may adversely affect our customers and as a result cause them to curtail the use of our services.

Current wording

Volatility in the prices or availability of certain materials and equipment used in our businesses and those of our customers, including as a result of inflation, supply chain disruptions, geopolitical instability, and protectionist trade measures, could adversely affect our businesses. We are exposed to market risk of increases in certain commodity prices of materials, such as copper and steel, which are used as components of supplies or materials utilized in our operations. We are also exposed to increases in energy prices, particularly as they relate to gasoline prices for our fleet of approximately 14,000 vehicles. While we believe we can increase our prices to adjust for some price increases in commodities, there can be no assurance that price increases of commodities, if they were to occur, would be recoverable. Further, the timing of our price increases may lag the timing of the underlying increases in commodity or material prices and our fixed price contracts generally do not allow us to adjust our prices. As a result, increases in material or fuel costs could reduce our profitability with respect to projects in progress. Additionally, we rely on third-party vendors and manufacturers to supply much of the materials and equipment necessary for our operations. Disruptions, shortages, or delays in the availability of such materials and equipment have and may continue to adversely impact our result of operations, cash flows, and reputation with our customers. For example, in recent years, we experienced supply chain delays, including long lead times for certain materials and equipment, as well as an escalation in material and fuel prices, to varying degrees. These disruptions resulted in declines in gross profit and gross profit margin for certain of our operations. Fluctuations in the price of energy and commodity materials, whether resulting from fluctuations in market supply or demand, geopolitical conditions (including supply chain disruptions, sanctions on Russian exports as a result of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, armed conflict between Israel and Iran, and shipping lane disruptions following maritime attacks in the Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea), an increase in trade protection measures such as tariffs, or the disruption, modification, or cancellation of multilateral trade agreements, may adversely affect our customers and as a result cause them to curtail the use of our services.

Previous wording

The loss of one or a few customers could have an adverse effect on us. Although we provide services to a diverse portfolio of end markets and have long-standing relationships with many of our significant customers, our customers may unilaterally reduce, fail to renew, or terminate their contracts with us at any time. A loss of business from a significant customer, or a number of significant customers, could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial position, and results of operations.

Current wording

The loss of customers could have an adverse effect on us. Although we provide services to a diverse portfolio of end markets and have long-standing relationships with many of our significant customers, our customers may unilaterally reduce, fail to renew, or terminate their contracts with us at any time. A loss of business from a significant customer, or a number of significant customers, could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial position, and results of operations.

Previous wording

In addition, some of our competitors have greater resources than we do. We cannot be certain that our competitors will not develop the expertise, experience, and resources necessary to provide services that are superior in quality, and lower in price, to ours. Similarly, we cannot be certain that we will be able to maintain or enhance our competitive position within our industries or maintain a customer base at current levels. We may also face competition from the in-house service organizations of existing or prospective customers, particularly with respect to building services. Many of our customers employ personnel who perform some of the same types of building services that we do. We cannot be certain that our existing or prospective customers will continue to outsource building services in the future. If we are unable to compete effectively, we may experience a loss of market share, reduced profitability, or both, which if significant, could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and results of operations. Refer also to “Business - Competition” in Item 1 of this Form 10-K.

Current wording

We cannot be certain that our competitors will not develop the expertise, experience, and resources necessary to provide services that are superior in quality, and lower in price, to ours. Similarly, we cannot be certain that we will be able to maintain or enhance our competitive position within our industries or maintain a customer base at current levels. We may also face competition from the in-house service organizations of existing or prospective customers, particularly with respect to building services. Many of our customers employ personnel who perform some of the same types of building services that we do. We cannot be certain that our existing or prospective customers will continue to outsource building services in the future. If we are unable to compete effectively, we may experience a loss of customers, reduced profitability, or both, which if significant, could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and results of operations. Refer also to “Business - Competition” in Item 1 of this Form 10-K.

Previous wording

Our dependence upon fixed price contracts could adversely affect our business. We currently generate, and expect to continue to generate, a significant portion of our revenues from fixed price contracts. We must estimate the total costs of a particular project to bid for fixed price contracts. Cost and scheduling estimates are based on a number of assumptions, including those about future economic conditions, commodity and other materials pricing, cost and availability of labor, equipment, and materials, and supply chain efficiency, among other factors. The actual cost of labor and materials, however, may vary from the costs we originally estimated, something which we have experienced and may continue to experience due to inflationary pressures, supply chain challenges, and rising interest rates. These variations, along with other risks, inherent in the execution of projects subject to fixed price contracts, may cause actual gross profits from projects to differ from those we originally estimated and could result in reduced profitability or losses on projects. Depending upon the size of a particular project, variations from the estimated contract costs can have a significant impact on our operating results for any fiscal quarter or year.

Current wording

Our dependence upon fixed price contracts could adversely affect our business. We currently generate, and expect to continue to generate, a significant portion of our revenues from fixed price contracts. We must estimate the total costs of a particular project to bid for fixed price contracts. Cost and scheduling estimates are based on a number of assumptions, including those about future economic conditions, commodity and other materials pricing, cost and availability of labor, equipment, and materials, and supply chain efficiency, among other factors. The actual cost of labor and materials, however, may vary from the costs we originally estimated, something which we have experienced and may continue to experience due to inflationary pressures, supply chain challenges, and elevated interest rates. These variations, along with other risks, inherent in the execution of projects subject to fixed price contracts, may cause actual gross profits from projects to differ from those we originally estimated and could result in reduced profitability or losses on projects. Depending upon the size of a particular project, variations from the estimated contract costs can have a significant impact on our operating results for any fiscal quarter or year.

Previous wording

We could incur additional costs to cover certain guarantees or other contractual requirements. In some instances, we guarantee completion of a project by a specific date or price, cost savings, achievement of certain performance standards, or performance of our services at a certain standard of quality. For other arrangements, including those within our government services operations, the terms of our contracts may include provisions which require us to achieve certain minority participation or small or disadvantaged business “set-aside” goals. Such requirements have become more frequent in recent years and we expect them to be increasingly prevalent, especially under the current administration in Washington, D.C. If we subsequently fail to meet such guarantees, or comply with such provisions, we may be held responsible for costs resulting from such failures, including payment of penalties or liquidated or other damages. To the extent that any of these events occur, the total costs of a project could exceed the original estimated costs, and we would experience reduced profits or, in some cases, a loss.

Current wording

We could incur additional costs to cover certain guarantees or other contractual requirements. In some instances, we guarantee completion of a project by a specific date or price, cost savings, achievement of certain performance standards, or performance of our services at a certain standard of quality. For other arrangements, including those within our government services operations, the terms of our contracts may include provisions which require us to achieve certain minority participation or small or disadvantaged business “set-aside” goals. If we subsequently fail to meet such guarantees, or comply with such provisions, we may be held responsible for costs resulting from such failures, including payment of penalties or liquidated or other damages. To the extent that any of these events occur, the total costs of a project could exceed the original estimated costs, and we would experience reduced profits or, in some cases, a loss.

Previous wording

Many of our contracts, especially our building and industrial services contracts, may be canceled or delayed on short notice, and we may be unsuccessful in replacing such contracts if they are canceled or as they are completed or expire. For example, in 2023, our United States building services segment and our United Kingdom building services segment were unsuccessful in retaining certain contracts upon rebid. We could experience a decrease in revenues, net income, and liquidity if any of the following occur:

Current wording

Many of our contracts, especially our building and industrial services contracts, may be canceled or delayed on short notice, and we may be unsuccessful in replacing such contracts if they are canceled or as they are completed or expire. For example, in 2024 and 2023, our United States building services segment and our United Kingdom building services segment were unsuccessful in retaining certain contracts upon rebid. We could experience a decrease in revenues, net income, and liquidity if any of the following occur:

Previous wording

Fluctuating foreign currency exchange rates impact our financial results. We have operations in the United Kingdom, which in 2023 accounted for approximately 3% of our revenues. Our reported financial position and results of operations are exposed to the effects (both positive and negative) that fluctuating exchange rates have on the process of translating the financial statements of our United Kingdom operations, which are denominated in the British pound, into the U.S. dollar. The factors that impact exchange rate fluctuation, including macroeconomic and geopolitical conditions, are outside the control of the Company.

Current wording

Fluctuating foreign currency exchange rates impact our financial results. We have operations in the United Kingdom, which in 2024 accounted for approximately 3% of our revenues. Our reported financial position and results of operations are exposed to the effects (both positive and negative) that fluctuating exchange rates have on the process of translating the financial statements of our United Kingdom operations, which are denominated in the British pound, into the U.S. dollar. The factors that impact exchange rate fluctuation, including macroeconomic and geopolitical conditions, are outside of our control.

Previous wording

As part of our risk management strategy, we are effectively self-insured against certain potential liabilities. Although we maintain insurance policies with respect to a broad range of risks, including automobile liability, general liability, workers’ compensation, and employee-related healthcare, these policies do not cover all possible claims and certain of the policies are subject to large deductibles and retentions. In addition, we maintain a wholly-owned captive insurance subsidiary to manage certain of our insurance liabilities. Accordingly, we are effectively self-insured for a substantial number of actual and potential claims. Further, if any of our insurance carriers defaulted on its obligations to provide insurance coverage by reason of its insolvency or for other reasons, our exposure to claims would increase and our profits would be adversely affected. Our estimates for unpaid claims and expenses are based on known facts, historical trends, and industry averages, utilizing the assistance of an independent third-party actuary. The determination of such estimated liabilities and their appropriateness are reviewed and updated at least quarterly. However, these liabilities are difficult to assess and estimate due to many relevant factors, the effects of which are often unknown, including the severity of an injury or damage, the determination of liability in proportion to other parties, the timeliness of reported claims, the effectiveness of our risk management and safety programs, denial of coverage by our insurance carriers, and the terms and conditions of our insurance policies and/or customer contracts. Our accruals are based upon known facts, historical trends and our reasonable estimate of future expenses, and we believe such accruals are adequate. However, unknown or changing trends, risks, or circumstances, such as increases in claims, a weakening economy, increases in medical costs, changes in case law or legislation, or changes in the nature of the work we perform, could render our current estimates and accruals inadequate. In such case, adjustments may be required to increase our insurance liabilities in the period that the experience becomes known.

Current wording

As part of our risk management strategy, we are effectively self-insured against certain potential liabilities. Although we maintain insurance policies with respect to a broad range of risks, including automobile liability, general liability, workers’ compensation, and property damage, these policies do not cover all possible claims and certain of the policies are subject to large deductibles and retentions. In addition, we maintain a wholly-owned captive insurance subsidiary to manage certain of our insurance liabilities. Accordingly, we are effectively self-insured for a substantial number of actual and potential claims. Further, if any of our insurance carriers defaulted on its obligations to provide insurance coverage by reason of its insolvency or for other reasons, our exposure to claims would increase and our profits would be adversely affected. Our estimates for unpaid claims and expenses are based on known facts, historical trends, and industry averages, utilizing the assistance of an independent third-party actuary. The determination of such estimated liabilities and their appropriateness are reviewed and updated at least quarterly. However, these liabilities are difficult to assess and estimate due to many relevant factors, the effects of which are often unknown, including the severity of an injury or damage, the determination of liability in proportion to other parties, the timeliness of reported claims, the effectiveness of our risk management and safety programs, denial of coverage by our insurance carriers, and the terms and conditions of our insurance policies and/or customer contracts. Our accruals are based upon known facts, historical trends and our reasonable estimate of future expenses, and we believe such accruals are adequate.

Previous wording

Our business strategy relies, in part, on acquisitions to sustain our growth, and these transactions present certain risk and uncertainties. As part of our growth strategy, we acquire companies that expand, complement, and/or diversify our businesses. However, there is no guarantee that we will be successful in identifying targets that meet our requirements for acquisition. We may also face increased competition from other potential acquirers who may have greater financial resources available to them or who may be in a position to offer more favorable terms to the target company. This competition may limit our ability to pursue acquisition opportunities. Additionally, circumstances beyond our control, such as rising interest rates, inflation and potential disruptions resulting from public health emergencies, such as those experienced in connection with the COVID-19 pandemic, may hinder our ability to pursue and complete acquisitions. Further, realization of the anticipated benefits of an acquisition, and avoiding or mitigating the potential risks associated with an acquisition, will depend, among other things, upon our ability to: (a) effectively conduct due diligence to identify and mitigate potential problems at companies we propose to acquire, (b) recognize incompatibilities or other obstacles to the successful integration of the acquired business with our other operations, and (c) gain greater efficiencies and scale that will translate into reduced costs or anticipated synergies in a timely manner. However, there can be no assurance that an acquisition we may make in the future will provide the benefits anticipated when entering into the transaction. Acquisitions we have completed, and future acquisitions we may make, could expose us to operational challenges and risks, including the diversion of management’s attention from our existing businesses, the failure to retain key personnel or customers of the acquired business, and the assumption of unknown liabilities of the acquired business for which there are inadequate reserves. Our ability to sustain our growth and maintain our competitive position may be affected by our ability to identify and acquire desirable businesses and successfully integrate any acquired business.

Current wording

Our business strategy relies, in part, on acquisitions to sustain our growth, and these transactions present certain risk and uncertainties. As part of our growth strategy, we acquire companies that expand, complement, and/or diversify our businesses. However, there is no guarantee that we will be successful in identifying targets that meet our requirements for acquisition. We may also face increased competition from other potential acquirers who may have greater financial resources available to them or who may be in a position to offer more favorable terms to the target company. This competition may limit our ability to pursue acquisition opportunities. Additionally, circumstances beyond our control, such as elevated interest rates, inflation and potential macroeconomic disruptions, may hinder our ability to pursue and complete acquisitions. Further, realization of the anticipated benefits of an acquisition such as our acquisition of Miller Electric Company, and avoiding or mitigating the potential risks associated with an acquisition, will depend, among other things, upon our ability to: (a) effectively conduct due diligence to identify and mitigate potential problems at companies we propose to acquire, (b) recognize incompatibilities or other obstacles to the successful integration of the acquired business with our other operations, and (c) gain greater efficiencies and scale that will translate into reduced costs or anticipated synergies in a timely manner. However, there can be no assurance that an acquisition we may make in the future will provide the benefits anticipated when entering into the transaction. Acquisitions we have completed, and future acquisitions we may make, could expose us to operational challenges and risks, including the diversion of management’s attention from our existing businesses, the failure to retain key personnel or customers of the acquired business, and the assumption of unknown liabilities of the acquired business for which there are inadequate reserves. While the former owners of an acquired company may agree as part of our purchase agreements to indemnify us against certain historical liabilities of the target company, such indemnification may be subject to time limits, deductibles, caps and exclusions, and such former owners might be unable or unwilling to uphold those obligations to us. Our ability to sustain our growth and maintain our competitive position may be affected by our ability to identify and acquire desirable businesses and successfully integrate any acquired business.

Previous wording

We are increasingly dependent on sophisticated information technology systems; our business and results of operations are subject to adverse impacts due to disruption, failure, and cybersecurity breaches of these systems. We and our customers and third-party providers rely on information technology systems, hardware, and software, including third party “cloud based” systems, to run critical accounting, project management, and financial information systems. We rely upon security measures, systems redundancy, and third-party products and services to attempt to secure our information technology systems and the confidential, proprietary, and sensitive information they contain. However, our information technology systems and data, and that of our customers and third-party providers, are subject to cybersecurity incidents, such as hacking, computer viruses or other malicious or destructive software, ransomware, denial of service attacks, malicious social engineering and other intrusions, encryption, erasure, failure, and damage by individuals (which may include our and our third party providers’ employees), groups or nation states or state-sponsored threats. Such cybersecurity incidents could result in operational disruption and information misappropriation, such as theft of intellectual property or inappropriate disclosure of customer data or confidential, sensitive, or personal information, or in reputational harm with customers. While we maintain insurance coverage for these types of cybersecurity incidents, such policies may not completely provide coverage for, or completely offset, the costs associated with such incidents, including losses from reputational harm or the costs to improve security against future similar threats. We are continuously developing and enhancing our controls, processes, and practices designed to protect our systems, computers, software, data, and networks from attack, damage, or unauthorized access. This continued development and enhancement requires us to expend additional resources. However, we may not anticipate or combat all types of potential disruptions or breaches. Threats are continually evolving and threat actors may adopt new or different means of breaching our information technology systems and data, including the potential use of artificial intelligence (“AI”) tools to engage in automated, targeted, and coordinated attacks. As cybersecurity threats become more sophisticated and difficult to detect, our ability to promptly prevent, detect and mitigate the effects of cybersecurity incidents may be impacted, potentially resulting in more material adverse effects. As such threats increase in frequency and sophistication, we could be required to expend additional capital and other resources, including costs to deploy additional personnel and protection technologies, train employees, and engage third-party experts and consultants. Additionally, as many of our employees use our information technology systems to collab…

Excerpt shortened here; the source contains the full paragraph.

Current wording

We are increasingly dependent on sophisticated information technology systems; our business and results of operations are subject to adverse impacts due to the disruption, failure, or breaches of these systems. We and our customers and third-party providers rely on information technology systems, hardware, and software, including third-party “cloud based” systems, to run critical accounting, project management, and financial information systems. We rely upon security measures, systems redundancy, and third-party products and services to attempt to secure our information technology systems and the confidential, proprietary, and sensitive information they contain. However, our information technology systems and data, and that of our customers and third-party providers, are subject to cybersecurity incidents, such as hacking, computer viruses or other malicious or destructive software, ransomware, denial of service attacks, malicious social engineering and other intrusions, encryption, erasure, failure, and damage by individuals (which may include our and our third-party providers’ employees), groups or nation states or state-sponsored threats. Such cybersecurity incidents could result in operational disruption and information misappropriation, such as theft of intellectual property or inappropriate disclosure of customer data or confidential, sensitive, or personal information, or in reputational harm with customers. While we maintain insurance coverage for these types of cybersecurity incidents, such policies may not completely provide coverage for, or completely offset, the costs associated with such incidents, including losses from delays in our ability to provide services to our customers, reputational harm, or the costs to improve security against future similar threats. We are continuously developing and enhancing our controls, processes, and practices designed to protect our systems, computers, software, data, and networks from attack, damage, or unauthorized access. This continued development and enhancement requires us to expend additional resources. However, we may not anticipate or combat all types of potential disruptions or breaches. Threats are continually evolving and threat actors may adopt new or different means of breaching our information technology systems and data, including the potential use of artificial intelligence (“AI”) tools to engage in automated, targeted, and coordinated attacks. As cybersecurity threats become more sophisticated and difficult to detect, our ability to promptly prevent, detect and mitigate the effects of cybersecurity incidents may be impacted, potentially resulting in more material adverse effects. As such threats increase in frequency and sophistication, we could be required to expend additional capital and other resources, including costs to deploy additional personnel and protection technologies, train employees, and engage third-party experts and consultants. Additionally, as many of our employee…

Excerpt shortened here; the source contains the full paragraph.

Previous wording

In addition, new or evolving laws and regulations governing data privacy and the unauthorized disclosure of confidential information, including the European Union General Data Protection Regulation ("GDPR"), the California Consumer Privacy Act, the California Privacy Rights Act, state biometric laws, and other emerging U.S. state privacy laws pose increasingly complex compliance challenges and could potentially elevate our compliance costs. Any failure to comply with these laws and regulations, or an exposure or exfiltration of information covered by such laws and regulations, including, without limitation, in connection with a cybersecurity incident, could result in significant penalties and legal liability, and increased costs in this area could have a negative impact on our reputation and our financial condition, results of operations, and cash flow.

Current wording

In addition, laws and regulations governing data privacy and the unauthorized disclosure of confidential information, including the European Union General Data Protection Regulation ("GDPR"), the California Consumer Privacy Act, the California Privacy Rights Act, state biometric laws, and other emerging U.S. state privacy laws pose increasingly complex compliance challenges and could potentially elevate our compliance costs. Any failure to comply with these laws and regulations, or an exposure or exfiltration of information covered by such laws and regulations, including, without limitation, in connection with a cybersecurity incident, could have a negative impact on our reputation or result in significant penalties and legal liability. Increased costs in this area could adversely impact our financial condition, results of operations, and cash flow.

Previous wording

A material portion of our business depends on our ability to provide surety bonds. We may be unable to compete for or work on certain projects if we are not able to obtain the necessary surety bonds. Our construction contracts frequently require that we obtain from surety companies, and provide to our customers, payment and performance bonds as a condition to the award of such contracts. Such surety bonds secure our payment and performance obligations. Under standard terms in the surety market, surety companies issue bonds on a project-by-project basis and can decline to issue bonds at any time or require the posting of collateral as a condition to issuing any bonds. Current or future market conditions, as well as changes in our sureties’ assessment of our or their own operating and financial risk, could cause our surety companies to decline to issue, or substantially reduce the amount of, bonds for our work or to increase our bonding costs. These actions can be taken on short notice. If our surety companies were to limit or eliminate our access to bonding, our alternatives would include seeking bonding capacity from other surety companies, increasing business with clients that do not require bonds, or posting other forms of collateral for project performance, such as letters of credit, parent company guarantees, or cash.

Current wording

A material portion of our business depends on our ability to provide surety bonds. We may be unable to compete for or work on certain projects if we are not able to obtain the necessary surety bonds. Our construction contracts frequently require that we obtain from surety companies, and provide to our customers, payment and performance bonds as a condition to the award of such contracts. Such surety bonds secure our payment and performance obligations. Under standard terms in the surety market, surety companies issue bonds on a project-by-project basis and can decline to issue bonds at any time or require the posting of collateral as a condition to issuing any bonds. Current or future market conditions, as well as changes in our sureties’ assessment of our or their own operating and financial risk, could cause our surety companies to decline to issue, or substantially reduce the amount of, bonds for our work or to increase our bonding costs. These actions can be taken on short notice. If our surety companies were to limit or eliminate our access to bonding, our alternatives would include seeking bonding capacity from other surety companies, increasing business with clients that do not require bonds, or posting other forms of collateral for project performance, such as letters of credit, parent company guarantees, or cash. However, we may be unable to secure these alternatives in a timely manner, on acceptable terms, or at all. Accordingly, if we were to experience an interruption or reduction in the availability of bonding, we may be unable to compete for or work on certain projects. Increases in the costs of surety bonds could also adversely impact our profitability.

Previous wording

Our results of operations could be adversely affected as a result of goodwill and identifiable intangible asset impairments. When we acquire a business, we record an asset called “goodwill” equal to the excess of the consideration transferred over the fair value of the net tangible and identifiable intangible assets acquired. Goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets are not amortized but instead evaluated for impairment annually, or more frequently if events or circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the asset may be impaired. Impairment may result from a deterioration in macroeconomic conditions, declining financial performance, deterioration in the operational environment, or changes in the manner in which acquired assets are used. Significant judgment is required in determining whether goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets are impaired and assumptions utilized for purposes of our impairment testing may change in future periods. There can be no assurance that our estimates and assumptions will prove to be accurate predictions of the future. Significant adverse changes to external market conditions or our internal forecasts, if any, could result in future impairment charges. It is not possible at this time to determine if any future impairment charge will result or, if it does, whether such a charge would be material to our results of operations. For further discussion of our impairment testing, see Note 8 - Goodwill, Identifiable Intangible Assets, and Other Long-Lived Assets included in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.

Current wording

Our results of operations could be adversely affected as a result of goodwill and identifiable intangible asset impairments. When we acquire a business, we record an asset called “goodwill” equal to the excess of the consideration transferred over the fair value of the net tangible and identifiable intangible assets acquired. Goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets are not amortized but instead evaluated for impairment annually, or more frequently if events or circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the asset may be impaired. Impairment may result from a deterioration in macroeconomic conditions, declining financial performance, deterioration in the operational environment, or changes in the manner in which acquired assets are used. Significant judgment is required in determining whether goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets are impaired and assumptions utilized for purposes of our impairment testing may change in future periods. There can be no assurance that our estimates and assumptions will prove to be accurate predictions of the future. Significant adverse changes to external market conditions or our internal forecasts, if any, could result in future impairment charges. It is not possible at this time to determine if any future impairment charge will result or, if it does, whether such a charge would be material to our results of operations. For further discussion of our impairment testing, see Note 8 - Goodwill, Identifiable Intangible Assets, and Other Long-Lived Assets of the notes to consolidated financial statements included in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.

Previous wording

Our failure to comply with environmental laws could result in significant liabilities. Our operations are subject to various laws, including environmental laws and regulations, among which many deal with the handling and disposal of hazardous or universal waste products, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), and fuel storage. A violation of such laws and regulations, or a release of or exposure to such substances, including mold, lead paint, and asbestos, has and may in the future, expose us to various claims, including claims by third parties, as well as remediation costs and fines. We own and lease many facilities. Some of these facilities contain hazardous materials, such as asbestos, and fuel storage tanks, which may be above or below ground. If there is a release of such hazardous materials, or these tanks were to leak, we could be responsible for the cost of remediation as well as potential fines. As a part of our business, we also install fuel storage tanks and are sometimes required to deal with hazardous materials, all of which may expose us to environmental liability.

Current wording

Our failure to comply with environmental laws could result in significant liabilities. Our operations are subject to various laws, including environmental laws and regulations, among which many deal with the handling and disposal of hazardous or universal waste products, polychlorinated biphenyls, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, and fuel storage. A violation of such laws and regulations, or a release of or exposure to such substances, including mold, lead paint, and asbestos, has and may in the future, expose us to various claims, including claims by third parties, as well as remediation costs and fines. We own and lease many facilities. Some of these facilities contain hazardous materials, such as asbestos, and fuel storage tanks, which may be above or below ground. If there is a release of such hazardous materials, or these tanks were to leak, we could be responsible for the cost of remediation as well as potential fines. As a part of our business, we also install fuel storage tanks and are sometimes required to deal with hazardous materials, all of which may expose us to environmental liability. In addition, some of our operations, particularly those servicing oil and natural gas refineries, are subject to the risk of accidental release of hazardous materials that have in the past and have the potential to result in injuries or fatalities involving our employees or third parties, property damage, or environmental contamination. If our personnel cause or are alleged to have caused any such release, it may result in claims for indemnification under our contracts with customers, claims from third-parties or local communities impacted by such release, or investigations or regulatory action by federal, state or local environmental, occupational, health and safety or other authorities. These risks could result in a material adverse effect on our business, operating results, financial position, and cash flows, and in some cases, on our reputation or our ability to obtain projects from customers.

Previous wording

In addition, new laws and regulations, stricter enforcement of existing laws and regulations, the discovery of previously unknown contamination or leaks, exposure to or the release of materials subsequently identified as hazardous by a governmental authority, the imposition of new clean-up requirements, or the exposure of our employees or other contractors to hazardous materials, could require us to incur significant costs or become the basis for new or increased liabilities that could harm our financial position and results of operations, although certain of these costs might be covered by insurance. In some instances, we have obtained indemnification or covenants from third parties (including predecessors or lessors) for such clean-up and other obligations and liabilities, and we believe such indemnities and covenants are adequate to cover such obligations and liabilities. However, such third-party indemnities or covenants may not cover all of such costs or third-party indemnitors may default on their obligations. In addition, unanticipated obligations or liabilities, or future obligations and liabilities, may have a material adverse effect on our business operations. Further, we cannot be certain that we will be able to identify, or be indemnified for, all potential environmental liabilities relating to any acquired business.

Current wording

New laws and regulations, stricter enforcement of existing laws and regulations, the discovery of previously unknown contamination or leaks, exposure to or the release of materials subsequently identified as hazardous by a governmental authority, the imposition of new clean-up requirements, or the exposure of our employees or other contractors to hazardous materials, could require us to incur significant costs or become the basis for new or increased liabilities that could harm our financial position and results of operations, although certain of these costs might be covered by insurance. In some instances, we have obtained indemnification or covenants from third parties (including predecessors or lessors) for such clean-up and other obligations and liabilities, and we believe such indemnities and covenants are adequate to cover such obligations and liabilities. However, such third-party indemnities or covenants may not cover all of such costs or third-party indemnitors may default on their obligations. In addition, unanticipated obligations or liabilities, or future obligations and liabilities, may have a material adverse effect on our business operations. Further, we cannot be certain that we will be able to identify, or be indemnified for, all potential environmental liabilities relating to any acquired business. See Note 15 - Commitments and Contingencies of the notes to consolidated financial statements included in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data, for more information regarding any significant legal proceedings in which we are involved.

Previous wording

Adverse resolution of litigation and other legal and regulatory proceedings may harm our operating results or financial position. From time to time, we are a party to lawsuits and other legal proceedings, most of which occur in the normal course of our business. These actions and proceedings may involve actual or threatened claims by customers, employees, or other third parties for, among other things, compensation or indemnification for alleged personal injury, workers’ compensation, employment discrimination, breach of contract, property damage, or other general commercial disputes. In addition, we have been, and may in the future be, subject to class action claims alleging violations of the Fair Labor Standards Act and state wage and hour laws. Litigation and other legal proceedings can be expensive, lengthy, and disruptive to normal business operations, and their outcome is inherently uncertain and difficult to accurately predict or quantify. In addition, plaintiffs in many types of actions may seek punitive damages, civil penalties, consequential damages or other losses, or injunctive or declaratory relief. An unfavorable resolution of a particular legal proceeding or claim, whether through a settlement, mediation, court judgment, or otherwise, could have a material adverse effect on our business, operating results, financial position, and cash flows, and in some cases, on our reputation or our ability to obtain projects from customers, including governmental entities. See Item 3. Legal Proceedings and Note 15 - Commitments and Contingencies of the notes to consolidated financial statements included in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data, for more information regarding any significant legal proceedings in which we are involved.

Current wording

Adverse resolution of litigation and other legal and regulatory proceedings may harm our operating results or financial position. From time to time, we are a party to lawsuits and other legal proceedings, most of which occur in the normal course of our business. These actions and proceedings may involve actual or threatened claims by customers, employees, or other third parties for, among other things, compensation or indemnification for alleged personal injury, workers’ compensation, employment discrimination, breach of contract, property damage, or other general commercial disputes. In addition, we have been, and may in the future be, subject to class action claims alleging violations of the Fair Labor Standards Act and state wage and hour laws. Litigation and other legal proceedings can be expensive, lengthy, and disruptive to normal business operations, and their outcome is inherently uncertain and difficult to accurately predict or quantify. In addition, plaintiffs in many types of actions may seek punitive damages, civil penalties, consequential damages or other losses, or injunctive or declaratory relief.

Previous wording

Our failure to comply with anti-bribery statutes, such as the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act and the U.K. Bribery Act of 2010, or sanction regulations, could result in fines, criminal penalties, and other sanctions that could have an adverse effect on our business. The U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (the “FCPA”), the U.K. Bribery Act of 2010 (the “Bribery Act”), and similar anti-bribery laws in other jurisdictions generally prohibit companies and their intermediaries from making improper payments to foreign officials for the purpose of obtaining or retaining business or securing an improper advantage. In addition, sanctions against foreign persons and entities have increased in recent years, especially as a result of the war in the Ukraine. Our policies require that all of our employees, subcontractors, vendors, and agents worldwide must comply with applicable anti-bribery and sanction laws. However, there is no assurance that our policies and procedures to ensure compliance with the FCPA, the Bribery Act, and similar anti-bribery and sanction laws, will eliminate the possibility of liability under such laws for actions taken by our employees, agents, and intermediaries. If we were found to be liable for violations under the FCPA, the Bribery Act, or similar anti-bribery or sanction laws, either due to our own acts or omissions or due to the acts or omissions of others, we could incur substantial legal expenses and suffer civil and criminal penalties, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and results of operations, as well as our reputation. In addition, whether or not such expenses, penalties, or sanctions are actually incurred, the actual or alleged violation of the FCPA, the Bribery Act, or any similar anti-bribery or sanction laws could have a negative impact on our reputation.

Current wording

Our failure to comply with anti-bribery statutes, such as the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act and the U.K. Bribery Act of 2010, or sanction regulations, could result in fines, criminal penalties, and other sanctions that could have an adverse effect on our business. The U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (the “FCPA”), the U.K. Bribery Act of 2010 (the “Bribery Act”), and similar anti-bribery laws in other jurisdictions generally prohibit companies and their intermediaries from making improper payments to foreign officials for the purpose of obtaining or retaining business or securing an improper advantage. In addition, sanctions against foreign persons and entities have increased in recent years, especially in connection with the war in Ukraine and ongoing trade and diplomatic disputes between the U.S. and China. Our policies require that all of our employees, subcontractors, vendors, and agents worldwide must comply with applicable anti-bribery and sanction laws. However, there is no assurance that our policies and procedures to ensure compliance with the FCPA, the Bribery Act, and similar anti-bribery and sanction laws, will eliminate the possibility of liability under such laws for actions taken by our employees, agents, and intermediaries. If we were found to be liable for violations under the FCPA, the Bribery Act, or similar anti-bribery or sanction laws, either due to our own acts or omissions or due to the acts or omissions of others, we could incur substantial legal expenses and suffer civil and criminal penalties, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and results of operations, as well as our reputation. In addition, whether or not such expenses, penalties, or sanctions are actually incurred, the actual or alleged violation of the FCPA, the Bribery Act, or any similar anti-bribery or sanction laws could have a negative impact on our reputation.

Previous wording

The departure of key personnel could disrupt our business. We depend on the continued efforts of our senior management. The loss of key personnel, including a temporary loss as a result of illness, or the inability to hire and retain qualified executives, could negatively impact our ability to manage our business.

Current wording

The departure, loss or incapacitation of key personnel could disrupt our business. We depend on the continued efforts of our senior management and other key employees. The departure or loss of key personnel, including as a result of illness or other incapacitation, or the inability to hire and retain qualified executives, could negatively impact our ability to manage our business, successfully execute for our customers or sustain valuable customer relationships. While we have established and regularly review management succession plans, the inadequacy of any such succession plans in addressing a particular loss or our failure to successfully implement such succession plans may adversely affect our business.

Previous wording

We may be unable to attract and retain skilled employees. Our ability to grow and maintain productivity and profitability will be limited by our ability to employ, train, and retain skilled personnel necessary to meet our requirements. We are dependent upon a workforce of approximately 38,300 employees, including our project managers and field supervisors who are responsible for managing our projects, and there can be no assurance that any individual will continue in his or her capacity for any particular period of time. The loss of such qualified employees could have an adverse effect on our business. We cannot be certain that we will be able to maintain an adequate skilled labor force necessary to operate efficiently and to support our business strategy or that labor expenses will not increase as a result of a shortage in the supply of these skilled personnel. The availability and costs to adequately train and maintain a skilled labor force could be impacted by factors we cannot control, including changes in the unemployment rate, prevailing wage rates, benefit costs, potential labor force disruptions resulting from public health emergencies, such as those experienced in connection with the COVID-19 pandemic, and competition for labor from our competitors in the markets we serve. Labor shortages or increased labor costs, such as those currently being experienced throughout the United States and United Kingdom, could impair our ability to provide services to our customers, maintain our business, or grow our revenues. Proposed rules by the Federal Trade Commission to eliminate almost all non-competition agreements with employees, if implemented, may also impact retention of key employees by reducing barriers to individuals with such agreements leaving to work for our competitors.

Current wording

We may be unable to attract and retain skilled employees. Our ability to grow and maintain productivity and profitability will be limited by our ability to employ, train, and retain skilled personnel necessary to meet our requirements. We are dependent upon a workforce of approximately 40,400 employees, including our project managers and field supervisors who are responsible for managing our projects, and there can be no assurance that any individual will continue in his or her capacity for any particular period of time. The loss of such qualified employees could have an adverse effect on our business. We cannot be certain that we will be able to maintain an adequate skilled labor force necessary to operate efficiently and to support our business strategy or that labor expenses will not increase as a result of a shortage in the supply of these skilled personnel. We also rely on third-party subcontractors to complete portions of some of our projects and those subcontractors are subject to the same challenges and uncertainty in employing, training and retaining an adequate qualified labor force to meet our needs.

Previous wording

Our unionized workforce could adversely affect our operations; our participation in many multiemployer pension plans could result in substantial liabilities being incurred. As of December 31, 2023, approximately 60% of our employees were covered by collective bargaining agreements. However, only two of our collective bargaining agreements are national or regional in scope, and not all of our collective bargaining agreements expire at the same time. Although the majority of these agreements prohibit strikes and work stoppages, we cannot be certain that strikes or work stoppages will not occur in the future. Strikes or work stoppages likely would adversely impact our relationships with our customers and could have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations, and cash flows.

Current wording

Our unionized workforce could adversely affect our operations; our participation in many multiemployer pension plans could result in substantial liabilities being incurred. As of December 31, 2024, approximately 63% of our employees were covered by collective bargaining agreements. However, only two of our collective bargaining agreements are national or regional in scope, and not all of our collective bargaining agreements expire at the same time. Although the majority of these agreements prohibit strikes and work stoppages, we cannot be certain that strikes or work stoppages will not occur in the future. Strikes or work stoppages likely would adversely impact our relationships with our customers and could have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations, and cash flows.

Previous wording

We may be affected by market or regulatory responses to climate change. Growing public concern about climate change has resulted in the increased focus of local, state, regional, national, and international regulatory bodies on greenhouse gas (“GHG”) emissions and climate change issues. Legislation to regulate GHG emissions has periodically been introduced in the U.S. Congress, and there has been a wide-ranging policy debate, both in the United States and internationally, regarding the impact of these gases and possible means for their regulation. The Biden Administration has made climate change and the limitation of GHG emissions one of its primary objectives, including a renewed commitment to the Paris Agreement and a Nationally Determined Contribution under such agreement that aims to reduce U.S. emissions by 50-52%, compared to a 2005 baseline, by 2030. Several states in the United States have also adopted laws that require reporting of GHG emissions, or that a percentage of our fleet be comprised of electric vehicles. Such laws or regulations enacted by the federal government or state and local governments or agencies, and/or any international agreements to which the United States may become a party that control or limit GHG emissions or otherwise seek to address climate change, could result in increased compliance costs for us and our clients or have other impacts on our clients, including those who are involved in the exploration, production, or refining of fossil fuels, or who emit greenhouse gases through the combustion of fossil fuels or through the mining, manufacture, utilization, or production of materials or goods. Such policy changes could increase the costs of projects for our clients or, in some cases, prevent a project from going forward, thereby potentially reducing the need for certain of our services, which could in turn have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and results of operations. In addition, compliance with legislation requiring us to increase the mix of electric vehicles within our fleet will be difficult as the electric vehicles currently available do not meet our fleet requirements. However, policy changes and climate legislation could also increase the overall demand for our services as our clients and partners work to comply with these policies, such as by decarbonizing their industries, transitioning from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources, reducing their energy consumption, and developing integrated and sustainable solutions, all of which could have a positive impact on our business. We cannot predict with certainty what the effect of such regulation may be on us or our customers.

Current wording

We may be affected by market or regulatory responses to climate change. Growing public concern about climate change has resulted in the increased focus of local, state, regional, national, and international regulatory bodies on greenhouse gas (“GHG”) emissions and climate change issues. Legislation to regulate GHG emissions has periodically been introduced in the U.S. Congress, and there has been a wide-ranging policy debate, both in the United States and internationally, regarding the impact of these gases and possible means for their regulation. Several states in the United States have proposed or adopted laws that require reporting of GHG emissions, or that a percentage of our fleet be comprised of electric vehicles. Such laws or regulations enacted by the federal government or state and local governments or agencies, and/or any international agreements to which the United States may become a party that control or limit GHG emissions or otherwise seek to address climate change, could result in increased compliance costs for us and our clients or have other impacts on our clients, including those who are involved in the exploration, production, or refining of fossil fuels, or who emit greenhouse gases through the combustion of fossil fuels or through the mining, manufacture, utilization, or production of materials or goods. Such policy changes could increase the costs of projects for our clients or, in some cases, prevent a project from going forward, thereby potentially reducing the need for certain of our services, which could in turn have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and results of operations. In addition, compliance with legislation requiring us to increase the mix of electric vehicles within our fleet will be difficult as the electric vehicles currently available do not meet our fleet requirements. However, policy changes and climate legislation could also increase the overall demand for our services as our clients and partners work to comply with these policies, such as by decarbonizing their industries, transitioning from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources, reducing their energy consumption, and developing integrated and sustainable solutions, all of which could have a positive impact on our business. We cannot predict with certainty what the effect of such regulation may be on us or our customers.

Previous wording

In addition, in March 2022, the SEC proposed new rules that would require significant climate-related disclosures by public companies, including evaluation and disclosure of material climate-related risks and opportunities, GHG emissions inventory, climate-related targets and goals, and financial impacts of physical and transition risks. Subsequently, other legislation, including certain state laws, have been passed that would require similar climate-related disclosure. Compliance with these new rules may increase our legal, accounting, and other compliance expenses and may divert management time and attention. We may also be exposed to legal or regulatory action or claims as a result of these new regulations. All of these risks could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial position, and/or stock price.

Current wording

In addition, in March 2024, the SEC finalized new rules that would require significant climate-related disclosures by public companies, including evaluation and disclosure of material climate-related risks and opportunities, GHG emissions inventory, climate-related targets and goals, and financial impacts of physical and transition risks. While these rules are currently stayed pending legal challenges, and may face additional challenges under the current administration, it is not certain whether they, or similar future rules, will go into effect. Other legislation, including certain state laws, have been passed that would require similar climate-related disclosure. To the extent that such new rules become effective, our legal, accounting, and other compliance expenses may increase and may divert management time and attention. We may also be exposed to legal or regulatory action or claims as a result of these new regulations. All of these risks could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial position, and/or stock price.

Previous wording

We may be unable to achieve our current or future climate commitments and targets, or we may incur substantial costs in meeting such targets. To help mitigate the impacts of GHG emissions on climate change, EMCOR has established initial carbon-based fuel consumption and GHG emission reduction targets and committed to investigating the establishment of science-based GHG emissions targets. However, achievement of such targets, or similar targets that may be established in the future, is subject to risks and uncertainties, many of which are outside of our control. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to: (a) our ability to execute our operational strategies and achieve our goals within the currently projected costs and the expected timeframes; (b) the availability and cost of alternative fuels, electrical charging infrastructure, off-site renewable energy, and other materials and components; (c) unforeseen design, operational, and technological difficulties; (d) the outcome of research efforts and future technology developments, including alternate or more fuel efficient vehicles for our fleet, such as hybrid or electric vehicles, the availability of which has been impacted by the global shortage in supply of vehicles generally; (e) regulations and requirements that restrict or prohibit our ability to impose requirements on third party contractors; (f) an acquisition of or merger with another company that has not adopted similar targets and goals or whose progress towards reaching its goals is not as advanced as ours; and (g) exogenous macroeconomic or supply chain shocks, such as those experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic, which could result in fluctuations in our fuel consumption and GHG emissions in a given period. In addition, we could be required to expend amounts in future periods as we continue to work towards achieving our targets, which may have a material effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, or liquidity.

Current wording

We may be unable to achieve our current or future climate commitments and targets, or we may incur substantial costs in meeting such targets. To help mitigate the impacts of GHG emissions on climate change, EMCOR has established initial carbon-based fuel consumption and GHG emission reduction targets. However, achievement of such targets, or similar targets that may be established in the future, is subject to risks and uncertainties, many of which are outside of our control. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to: (a) our ability to execute our operational strategies and achieve our goals within the currently projected costs and the expected timeframes; (b) the availability and cost of alternative fuels, electrical charging infrastructure, off-site renewable energy, and other materials and components; (c) unforeseen design, operational, and technological difficulties; (d) the outcome of research efforts and future technology developments, including alternate or more fuel efficient vehicles for our fleet, such as hybrid or electric vehicles, the availability of which has been impacted by the global shortage in supply of vehicles generally; (e) regulations and requirements that restrict or prohibit our ability to impose requirements on third-party contractors; (f) an acquisition of or merger with another company that has not adopted similar targets and goals or whose progress towards reaching its goals is not as advanced as ours; and (g) exogenous macroeconomic or supply chain shocks, which could result in fluctuations in our fuel consumption and GHG emissions in a given period. In addition, we could be required to expend amounts in future periods as we continue to work towards achieving our targets, which may have a material effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, or liquidity.

Previous wording

Public health emergencies, epidemics, or pandemics impact our business. The global spread of COVID-19, and the responses of governments, businesses, and individuals to combat it, caused significant volatility, uncertainty, and economic disruption, which adversely impacted our operations and those of our customers. A renewed significant spread of COVID-19, new variants thereof, or new infectious diseases, could lead to similar impacts. Government authorities in the United States and United Kingdom have at various times recommended or imposed certain social distancing, quarantine, and isolation measures to varying degrees, with many such measures impacting large portions of the population, including limitations on travel and mandatory cessation of certain business activities. Both the outbreak and the containment and mitigation measures resulted in serious adverse impacts on the economy, and it is possible that such measures could return for future public health emergencies. The impact to our business and operations in another public health emergency will depend in part on the severity and duration of those measures and the extent and pace of economic recovery, which are difficult to predict.

Current wording

Public health emergencies, epidemics, or pandemics impact our business. The global spread of COVID-19, and the responses of governments, businesses, and individuals to combat it, caused significant volatility, uncertainty, and economic disruption, which adversely impacted our operations and those of our customers. A new public health emergency, such as an epidemic or pandemic, could lead to similar impacts. Government authorities in the United States and United Kingdom have at various times recommended or imposed certain social distancing, quarantine, and isolation measures to varying degrees, with many such measures impacting large portions of the population, including limitations on travel and mandatory cessation of certain business activities. Both the outbreak and the containment and mitigation measures resulted in serious adverse impacts on the economy, and it is possible that such measures could return for future public health emergencies. The impact to our business and operations in another public health emergency will depend in part on the severity and duration of those measures and the extent and pace of economic recovery, which are difficult to predict.

Previous wording

Terrorist attacks and other catastrophic events could disrupt our operations and services. Acts of terrorism and other catastrophic events, and the actions taken by the United States and/or other governments or actors in response to such events, may result in property damage, supply disruption, or economic dislocations throughout the country. Although it is not possible to predict such events or their consequences, these events could increase the volatility of our financial results due to decreased demand and unforeseen costs, with partial or no corresponding compensation from clients.

Current wording

Terrorist attacks, wars, conflicts, and other catastrophic events could disrupt our operations and services. Acts of terrorism, war, conflicts, and other catastrophic events, and the actions taken by the United States and/or other governments or actors in response to such events, may result in property damage, supply disruption, or economic dislocations throughout the country. Although it is not possible to predict such events or their consequences, these events could increase the volatility of our financial results due to decreased demand and unforeseen costs, with partial or no corresponding compensation from clients.