Experts advocate wearable protective robots for construction workers
Operators in the construction sector have called for the adoption of wearable robots for construction workers to avert injuries.
An expert in construction engineering and management, Anthony Yusuf, in his publication titled Collaborations between industry and academia for future workforce development: construction practitioners’ perspective, noted that the challenges of the construction industry are workforce-related.
He said, “The physically demanding nature of construction activities makes work-related musculoskeletal disorders, also known as ergonomic injuries (such as low back pain), a rife phenomenon in the industry. This has resulted in several debilitating effects. In addition to the pain and discomfort experienced by construction workers, this brings financial burdens to workers and their families, increasing medical expenses and workers’ compensation to employers, as well as loss of income and productivity to society. Also, workers affected by ergonomic injuries experience decreased quality of life, and in most cases, it could lead to permanent disabilities.
“This results in premature exits from the industry to other sectors and early retirement of skilled labour, which is a major cause of labour shortage in the industry.
In the same vein, the prevalence of these problems has resulted in a bad reputation for the construction industry to be known as unsafe, which affects the attraction and retention of skilled labour. As a result of this, I have been investigating wearable robots, also known as exoskeletons, to curb the predominance of WMSDs in the construction industry.
“These exoskeletons are mechanical and body-worn devices that use torque to provide physical assistance to the human body during task execution. My findings in construction robotics research have been published in several international journals and conference outlets. An example is his publication titled Evaluation of concrete workers’ interaction with a passive back-support exoskeleton, where I, along with other experts, investigated an innovative approach to address the prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders in the construction industry. The study assessed a passive back-support exoskeleton for concrete work in terms of the impact on the body, usability, benefits, and potential design modifications.”
According to Yusuf, in the publication, the experts investigated the potential of a passive back support exoskeleton as an ergonomic intervention for concrete workers.
He added, “Although the study highlighted acceptable usability and comfort while using the exoskeleton, necessary design modifications for improving productivity, the need for reducing perceived discomfort mainly at the chest and thigh, and improving ease of use were also identified. The study reveals the need for improvements to the designs of exoskeletons to make the devices suitable for concrete workers. Also, due to the dynamic nature of construction activities, the experts recommended that the design of exoskeletons for industry be construction task and trade specific to improve the usability and consequently the adoption of the technology. The experts highlighted other implications of the research for researchers, manufacturers of exoskeletons, and construction firms.
“Given the critical nature of the construction workforce, Mr. Yusuf has dedicated his research endeavours to leveraging emerging technologies and investigating innovative ways to prepare the future professional workforce of the construction industry as it continues to transition into Construction 4.0 and 5.0 eras. The scholar also works on assessing construction robotics to curb the prevailing ergonomic injuries among the current workforce. Therefore, in the rapidly changing construction industry sector, few individuals have made as significant an impact in addressing pertinent issues regarding the construction workforce.
“My research has shown the need to focus on addressing issues that relate to the current and future workforce of the construction industry to curtail several challenges facing the industry. Also, my research contributions to develop and improve the construction workforce using innovative approaches and leveraging emerging technologies have several implications for stakeholders in the construction industry and in construction engineering education. This research has been recognised and cited by scholars and practitioners globally, demonstrating the significance and impact of his contributions to the field.”
Meanwhile, the American Institute of Constructors had earlier called for the use of wearable robots to minimise construction workplace incidents.
It stated, “The construction industry is often associated with high-risk environments where safety must be taken seriously. Over the years, various technologies have emerged to enhance safety protocols, minimise accidents, and protect workers. Among the latest technology available for constructors, wearable technology in construction stands out as a complete game-changer. These devices can improve safety and boost productivity by providing real-time data that can prevent potential hazards.
“Wearable technology initially gained popularity in consumer industries via gadgets like fitness trackers and smartwatches. However, this technology soon expanded into other sectors where safety concerns demand constant innovation. In the past decade, wearables in the construction realm have grown from simple tracking devices to sophisticated, multi-functional systems that monitor workers’ health, location, environment, and more.
“What makes wearable technology so critical for construction projects is its ability to collect and analyse data in real-time, which can help alert workers and managers to immediate risks. With advancements in AI, machine learning, and sensors, wearable technology has become more accessible and effective in predicting and preventing accidents before they occur.”
