CPA Bulletin

www.cpa.uk.net CPA Bulletin > November 2024 35 GUEST ARTICLES: 3 It raises the question: What potential risks and unique challenges can adopting these new technologies present for developers, consultants and contractors? Let’s take a look at them. Emerging Technologies: Case Studies in Industry As we approach 2025, emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the usage of drones can serve numerous purposes in construction projects - from improving health and safety, project planning and efficiency, to lowering the risk of design and workmanship defects. Drones Drones, or unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), are becoming increasingly valuable in construction projects. During construction, drones offer real-time surveillance which can help with project planning. They enable workers to precisely examine a construction site’s layout, identifying potential defects early on and preventing potentially costly problems later in the project. Additionally useful for site surveillance, drones allow workers to identify and keep an eye on risks from a distance, avoiding potentially dangerous areas. Artificial Intelligence (AI) By utilising cutting-edge technologies and data-driven insights to enhance risk management and health and safety, artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionising the construction sector. Wearable AI-integrated construction wearable devices, such as exoskeletons, smart glasses, and smart boots is one application for this technology. Through reducing the weight of products to be lifted, monitoring worker heart rates for signs of fatigue, alerting them of potential hazards, and detecting hazardous substances like gas, these devices aim to address health and safety on construction sites. Building Information Modelling (BIM), gives stakeholders a platform for information sharing and working together in real-time. However, this technology still has limitations, such as the lack of automation and optimisation. Some of these restrictions may be solved by AI-driven BIM. For instance, AI-driven BIM can facilitate even more streamlined stakeholder collaboration by providing real-time feedback. AI algorithms can be used to make more accurate predictions by analysing large amounts of data from previous projects. Moreover, AI can help identify potential risks before construction even begins, enabling companies to take proactive steps to reduce the risk of costly delays. By 2030, with the widespread use of AI, drones, and other innovations, construction could undergo a substantial transformation. However, it’s crucial to also consider the risks of these technologies. Developers, contractors and consultants must be aware of potential issues including: 1. Liability Concerns: The implementation of innovative technologies may lead to health and safety claims, for example, where a worker is injured as a result of relying on a wearable device that failed to detect a hazard. Under such circumstances, questions may arise as to whether the wearable device’s manufacturer is liable for failure to detect, or whether the employer could be liable instead. Also, one of the biggest concerns for AI-driven BIM is the quality of the data used to make accurate predictions. 2. Privacy and Security Concerns: Large volumes of sensitive project data are generated and analysed as a result of the growing reliance on AI into BIM technology. Drones can also gather sensitive data from construction sites, workers, and surrounding areas. Unauthorised use or dissemination of this information may give rise to legal concerns related to data privacy, intellectual property rights, and cybersecurity. To safeguard this data from unauthorised access and ensure compliance with privacy regulations, construction businesses must prioritise robust cybersecurity and data protection measures. The Use of Innovative Technology in the Construction Industry Keeping Ahead of the Curve by Amelia M c Cormack, Broker, Townsend M c Cormack With emerging technologies revolutionising the way construction projects are planned, carried out, and managed, the construction sector continues to undergo a digital transformation. This discussion focuses on a few applications of these technologies in the construction industry.