IoT in Construction: Exploring the Role of Modern Technology in Reviving the Sector in Post-Pandemic Period

The pandemic-induced lockdowns and social distancing norms proved disastrous for almost all sectors of the global economy. The construction industry was especially hit by problems of labor shortages, fluctuations in raw materials, and supply-demand mismatches around the world. To address these issues in the post-pandemic period, companies have started adopting advanced technologies such as AI, IoT, and augmented reality to revive the sector and create new opportunities in the industry. As per a study done by the Global Construction Survey, more than 75% of construction companies consider the integration of innovative techniques as an important part of realigning their operations in the digital age. 

Use of IoT devices for improving worker efficiency and safety 

In the past few years, IoT technology has been increasingly used in different construction activities to automate building processes, improve project management techniques, and enhance the overall ROI. The use of connected sensors and embedded systems has increased productivity and efficiency by streamlining different operations. The growing popularity of smart wearables is an important development in the industry. Intelligent systems such as connected helmets and work boots are mainly used to monitor the movement and progress of the employees in real time. 

Another important reason behind the growing usage of smart wearables is to bring down the number of accidents that take place at building sites. According to one study, more than one in five workplace deaths happen during construction activities. These intelligent devices aid in enhancing the safety of the workers by providing alerts regarding the nearby dangers or hazards such as heavy machinery, scaffolding, etc. On the other hand, advanced construction equipment and tools are embedded with proximity sensors that automatically stop the machine if a worker gets too close to it. 

Moreover, these gadgets feature sensors that assist in tracking the worker’s health parameters such as heart rate, body temperature, blood pressure, oxygen levels, etc. In mining or other such projects, IoT-enabled devices also monitor the amount of hazardous gases in the atmosphere and recommend project managers to take necessary steps accordingly. 

Ensuring resource optimization through the introduction of IoT in construction 

Recently, Allied Market Research published a report on the IoT in construction market which states that the industry is anticipated to gather a revenue of $44.2 billion by 2031. The industry accounted for $11.2 billion in 2021, thereby rising at a CAGR of 14.6% during 2022-2031. The increasing adoption of IoT devices to minimize waste and optimize the use of different resources has created new opportunities in the sector. IoT-enabled machines and tools are deployed at construction sites to analyze inefficient usage patterns and identify the causes behind them. Similarly, these gadgets have capabilities to study the debris and monitor the on-site wastage levels, thus helping operators implement strategies to achieve peak performance. 

Along with this, IoT-powered sensors also aid in cutting down input costs by ensuring fuel savings. Large machines used at building sites are now fitted with these advanced sensing devices to ensure effective fuel management, systematic maintenance, and regular upgradation of their components. This not only helps in controlling the expenditure but also reduces downtime, thus assisting in timely project completion. Additionally, IoT technology puts in place mechanisms for automating different processes and enabling smooth communication and data exchange between various stakeholders. This improves the overall operational workflow and coordination, thereby guiding site operators in making the right decisions. 

In the past few years, several private companies have launched innovative solutions to cater to the evolving demands of the construction sector. In March 2023, for instance, Siemens, a German multinational automation company, announced the launch of Connect Box, an IoT-powered device to manage small and medium-sized buildings. As part of Siemens Xcelerator, a software platform to facilitate seamless automation, Connect Box is developed to improve the energy efficiency of buildings, bring down their power consumption, and improve the sustainability of construction projects. The solution also features an air quality monitoring gadget to check the PM2.5, carbon dioxide, and VOC emissions in the surroundings. 

In conclusion, the emergence of the Internet of Things technology has proved to be quite beneficial for the construction sector. The use of different IoT-enabled devices to improve worker efficiency and resource optimization has augmented the growth rate of the industry. The launch of ingenious products by different companies is predicted to impact the landscape positively in the coming period. 

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According to various studies, several construction companies have transitioned toward advanced technologies such as AI, machine learning, and IoT to revive the businesses in the post-pandemic period. IoT technology, especially, has played a transformative role by helping improve the efficiency of the workforce and ensure its safety at construction sites. The advent of IoT wearables such as smart helmets and work boots has contributed to the growth of the IoT in construction industry. Moreover, IoT-enabled machines and equipment have also been developed that aid in reducing the number of accidents that occur during different building activities. At the same time, this advanced technology also assists operators in analyzing the workflow and identifying areas where resource wastage can be reduced. Thus, Internet of Things has helped construction businesses adjust their operations to the evolving industry and develop strategies to stay ahead of their competitors.