Implementation of automation and robotics: Benefits to the construction industry

Abstract

With the advancement of technological equipment, understanding how technology influences the construction industry is essential. South Africa is expanding its use of technological innovation in the construction sector, primarily to solve issues particularly on building sites such as decline in quality and productivity, material wastage, injuries, project delays and poor working conditions. A solution to these issues is the adoption of implementation strategies of automation and robotics technologies, which have the potential to increase productivity, safety, and quality in the construction industry. This study aimed at evaluating the benefits of the implementation strategies of automation and robotics in the South African Construction industry. Corresponding literatures were reviewed, and a detailed quantitative research methodology was adopted to analyse the relationship between the variables. The cluster sampling technique was used and a survey questionnaire was distributed to a total of 111 valid construction professionals, who were situated in the Gauteng province of South Africa. The data collected presumed that the implementation of automation and robotics in the construction industry is beneficial as it increases productivity and efficiency. This was because technologies are generally more efficient than labourers as they can execute more work precisely without getting ‘tired’ as well as perform tasks well under hazardous conditions. The study concluded that the increase in productivity and efficiency by automation and robotics can reduce construction project delays and can ensure that certain goals are met during all phases of construction projects.