For Better or Worse? The Construction Technology Trends That Have Impacted On-Site Security

For Better or Worse? The Construction Technology Trends That Have Impacted On-Site Security

Construction jobs have their risks. These sites can pose risk to physical health and rigorous safety procedures must be followed at all times. But security on construction sites doesn’t end there. Theft is another security issue to consider, along with other threats related to the site and building security.

The construction site might not seem like the hottest place for the newest tech innovation. But technology adaptation can positively affect construction site security. It isn’t any wonder that digitalization is impacting the construction industry in 2021. What are the big trends? How can they help with security?

Implementation of Big Data and the Internet of Things (IoT)

Construction sites are starting to use big data as part of their security protocol. It can offer a wealth of information to help keep the buildings and employees safe. Big data can improve the physical security of workers through real-time, comprehensive weather reports and other such environmental data.

You can get a lot more information regarding the weather conditions which play a major role in construction site safe. Furthermore, information can be used to streamline schedules. For example, you can plan around bad weather or traffic congestion.

Likewise, IoT applications can provide and generate a lot of supportive information. IoT connects different digital platforms and technologies. Construction sites are often vast, and having applications talk to each other is crucial.

IoT can keep a track of on-site footfall and maintain security protocols. It can even help with monitoring employees which can boost productivity as well as help with safety.

Using Drones, Robotics, and 3D Printing

One of the biggest technological inventions to boost construction site security are robotics and drones. The technology can provide a huge amount of support to workers in the field. Drone cameras can be used to identify dangers.

They can be flown to examine spots that might be too dangerous for humans to venture into. Drones can help deliver tools and materials to difficult-to-reach spots. This can reduce the use of vehicles or the need to send humans to higher ground.

Construction robotics are also becoming helpful. Robotic technology can perform certain construction jobs like masonry. They can do these faster and often with more accuracy. While robots are unlikely to replace humans completely in the near future, they can begin to perform jobs that are dangerous or require a lot of time and effort.

Another huge trend in the construction world is 3D printing. Research suggests its annual market growth rate stood around 15.9% between 2017 and 2021. The technology enables on-site prefabrication of materials. 3D printers can craft tools and materials to use. Having this technology on-site can:

• Reduce waste
• Save time
• Improve sustainability

Designs don’t always work the same in a real-life environment. With 3D printing, builders can respond to design challenges a lot faster. It is possible to reimagine a specific design on the go and implement small changes to building models.

There won’t be as much downtime due to on-site printing. You don’t have to waste time and resources delivering certain materials off-site, as you can print things you need and as you need them.

Introducing Augmented and Virtual Realities

Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) technologies have interesting applications in the construction sector. They play a crucial role in the training of employees, for example. You can use them to go through safety procedures. They can be used to practice difficult projects to ensure people are aware of the steps required to finish the project.

AR is also great for examining the project’s final look as it continues to take shape. These applications tend to provide more in terms of collaboration. Better collaboration between designers and the constructors can boost security as well.

These technologies go hand in hand with Building Information Modelling (BIM). It’s intelligent 3D technology that entails the creation of building models, document management to project simulation. BIM can enhance collaboration between the different teams.

Combined with VR and AR it can make it easier to tackle problems on-site in real-time. Problem-solving becomes much faster and more efficient.

Using Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) are two other interesting technologies making their way to the construction site. Having these introduced to the worksite can increase productivity, especially when combined with robotics. AI is a useful tool in automating repetitive tasks. It can reduce the time workers need to spend on things like paperwork for on-site security.

ML, on the other hand, can help with anything from the designing of better buildings and enhancing on-site security. It can even help improve building lifetime. When used together with big data, it can save time and money. You keep learning from one project to another, streamlining procedures and strategies.

Implementing 5G and Wi-Fi Technologies

Wi-Fi systems and 5G are necessary for the full application of many of the other technologies. Mobile broadband guarantees the whole construction site can fully enjoy the benefits of IoT, for example. Wi-FI is getting a lot quicker and reliable which provides greater benefits to the industry. When you combine Wi-Fi and drones, you can also ensure the network reaches all corners of the construction site.

The trend in 2021 is to combine mobile and cloud technologies. Real-time data sharing on the cloud can enhance safety. For instance, it can guarantee that problems in one area of work are instantly communicated to other teams. This ensures procedures halt or they take another course smoothly depending on the situation.

Technologies Improving the Construction Site Safety

Overall, the above trends highlight the introduction of technology on the construction site. While the majority of the work still involves manual labor, technology can enhance and improve all aspects of the building site. At the heart of it is the introduction of better communication and collaboration. The construction site has many moving parts and technology brings these together.

The above trends are improving the quality of buildings, resulting in happier customers. But they are also ensuring workers can work in a safe environment. Through better collaboration, improved quality standards, and a helping hand from technology, construction sites can guarantee employee safety.

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