For the construction industry, the threat of COVID-19 continues to linger—causing uncertainty and concern for both companies and workers. Due to its unforeseen and devastating effects, it is almost a guarantee that the construction industry will begin to see new trends emerge.
As 2020 comes to a close, many industry professionals are beginning to consider how to operate post-coronavirus and which methods will be most efficient to keep workers safe and businesses afloat. AMAST is here to lay out five of those trends.
The Rise of Automation
While the use of robotic technology is not a new idea in the construction industry, the amount of (human) hands-on work required minimizes the need for high-tech equipment and supplies. The use of automation not only makes production faster—but more accurate and safer as well.
Tools like drones can be used to record, track and plan out construction sites in a safe and effective manner. Not only does this improve workers’ safety by limiting the need for face-to-face human interaction, but it also is less costly and ensures that fewer mistakes will be made.
Going Green
As the world becomes more reliant on technology and its up-and-coming advances, it’s also important to consider the impact that the construction industry has on Earth’s natural resources. This ecological approach is better known as “green construction.”
The World Green Building Council describes it as “a design, construction or operation, [that] reduces or eliminates negative impacts, and can create positive impacts, on our climate and natural environment. Green buildings preserve precious natural resources and improve our quality of life.”
Green construction encourages the use of renewable energy, indoor air quality and the ability to adapt to a shifting environment—something that should be a key consideration both during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. AMAST encourages the use of eco-friendly materials such as recycled wood and metals.
Virtual/Augmented Reality
The introduction of virtual and augmented reality can aid industry professionals in visually surveying completed projects before they’re actually completed in the real world. This can result in fewer deadline setbacks due to the technology’s accurateness of computer-generated 360-degree project models, in addition to its added advances that would not be seen otherwise.
By blending both BIM (Building Information Modeling) and VR together, professionals can create a more precise and detailed model without the hassle of manually rebuilding if needed. Along with being a cost-effective trend, VR also allows workers to meet in the “virtual world,” where social distancing is not only encouraged but expected.
VR’s resources also strengthen teamwork skills and allow you to see a scaled model of others’ work as well as your own.
Better Management Solutions
Managing a team of workers can be challenging and tedious. Staying organized and on track is crucial to meeting deadlines, communicating properly with clients and lessening the chance of mistakes. Luckily, there are advanced software programs created for project and construction management that can make this necessary task much more practical.
With the implementation of this new software, industry professionals can easily store vital documents including scheduling sheets, budget breakdowns, client demands and even government regulations in one place, making them easily accessible through both computer and mobile devices. Look here for some of the top-rated construction management software programs.
Safer Equipment & Improved Health Regulations
Construction is one of the most dangerous industries for workers. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) stated that in 2018, every one in five worker deaths was in construction. And in the same year, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that construction led in the number of all fatal work injuries — a whopping 47%. Things like improper safety protocols, lack of communication and inadequate training can all contribute to these high numbers.
With the active pandemic, it shouldn’t be a surprise to expect more conscientious rules moving forward; rigorous cleaning and disinfecting, smaller crews and of course, face masks. AMAST believes in taking on these new changes and is ready to work through them with you.
Sources: Construction Dive, The World Green Building Council, Jasoren, Software Advice, The Occupational Safety and Health Administration U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
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