By Winston Chong | 4th Mar 2020

Research Associate, Safety and Resilience Research Unit (SaRRU), Department of Building, School of Design and Environment, National University of Singapore. E-mail: bdgchcf@nus.edu.sg

The Internet of Things (IoT) is a concept where physical objects can transfer information over the internet without human intervention. Information collected from them can be processed and stored immediately via the internet. This allows faster reaction with real time or near real time decision making. As with other industries, construction can benefit greatly from the implementation of IoT technologies.

1) Real Time Observation

Alerts can be sent when certain activities are detected on the construction site. Supervisors can then verify if the team has undertaken the proper setup to carry out the work. Worker fragility can identified by detecting whether a worker has been working for long hours or under conditions that can cause heat stress.

2) Preventive Maintenance

Typically, maintenance is done in a scheduled fashion, but IoT could allow for real time or near real time condition monitoring of the items in question. Problems can be detected earlier and maintenance can be done in a more focused and delegated manner. More effort can be placed on areas with real problems.

3) Process Management

The location of important assets can be tracked within the site. Construction materials can be easily tracked and located, allowing for more effective planning of construction site activities.

4) Traffic Management

In sites where space is limited, traffic can be monitored so that deliveries can be made smoothly, avoiding bottlenecks.