This archive report was first published on 20 August 2019.
As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, the construction industry is no exception. By 2020, the Internet of Things (IoT) is expected to revolutionize the way construction projects are managed, making it safer, more efficient, and more productive.
IoT technology has already started to transform various sectors, including the construction industry. In the past, human interaction was the primary means of communication in construction projects. However, with the advent of IoT, two new forms of communication have emerged: human-to-machine and machine-to-machine.
According to a report, the number of devices interconnected through IoT is expected to increase significantly by 2020. This technology has the potential to enhance the construction industry in various ways, including:
Safety at the Construction Site ¶
Wearable technologies, such as activity trackers, can provide real-time information about workers' vital signs, allowing supervisors to monitor their health remotely. Smart vests can also be used to translate languages and measure vital signs, while sensors can be used to discourage people from approaching sensitive areas.
Monitoring Corrective Maintenance of Equipment to Improve Efficiency ¶
Sensors used in heavy machinery can track parameters such as work-hours of usage and repairs, providing real-time information to management. This enables them to take informed decisions about corrective maintenance or replacement, eliminating the need for manual record-keeping.
Management of Construction Site ¶
IoT technology can be used to manage construction sites more effectively, with facial recognition cameras and RFID sensors remotely checking logs and recording absentees. Smart devices can also automate administrative tasks, providing HR managers with people analytics to inform decision-making.
Monitoring Security of Construction Site ¶
IoT can be used to discourage unregistered intruders or personnel from entering restricted areas, with RFID tags and smart cameras for facial recognition. Supervisors can also monitor the site remotely, with cameras used for image recognition locating equipment, alerting management to wrongly placed items, leaks, hazards, and breaches.
