The Impact of New Technologies on the Construction Industry
The Impact of New Technologies on
the Construction Industry
May 2014
Construction Training Fund
13/08/2014 2:14 PM
The Impact of New Technologies on the Construction Industry
1
The Impact of New Technologies on the Construction Industry
Contents
1
2
Introduction .............................................................................................................. 3
1.1
Background ...................................................................................................... 3
1.2
Research Objectives......................................................................................... 3
1.3
Expected Outcomes ......................................................................................... 3
Evidence from the Research .................................................................................... 3
2.1
Past Research – Technology in the future ........................................................ 3
2.2
New and Emerging Technologies and Products in Construction ....................... 4
2.3
Scope of Surveys.............................................................................................. 6
2.4
Key Findings ..................................................................................................... 6
2.5
Building Information Modelling (BIM) ................................................................ 7
3
Conclusions ............................................................................................................. 8
4
Recommendations ................................................................................................... 9
Appendix 1 – New Technology Findings
Appendix 2 – Changes in Demand for Existing and New Trades
Appendix 3 – Face-to-Face and On-site Consultations
Appendix 4 – Telephone Interviews...……………………………………………….
Appendix 5 – Unsolicited Feedback..………………………………………………..
Appendix 6 – Survey..........................……………………………………………….
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The Impact of New Technologies on the Construction Industry
1
Introduction
1.1 Background
The growth of new technologies in the Construction Industry is expected have an impact
on the way construction is performed in the future. With any new methodologies, there
are expected to be changes in the composition of the workforce. New construction
technologies may require the attainment of new skills or trades with the consequence of
establishing new or redesigned training programs. All of these impacts are expected to
require new training methodologies and/or associated up-skilling of the workforce.
1.2
Research Objectives
The object of this research was to identify new technologies or methodologies in the
Construction Industry that could require new training and/or up-skilling of the trades and
semi-skilled workforce.
Identification of new technologies will enable the Building and Construction Industry
Training Board (BCITB) to identify the need for subsidies.
As part of this research, it was proposed to develop a broad based survey instrument
that could be administered to a wider audience. However, it was identified in the initial
face-to-face and telephone surveys with key stakeholders that a simple web-based
survey using initial findings would be sufficient to gather critical evidence relating to the
changes that currently, or in the future will affect the industry.
1.3
Expected Outcomes
It was expected the research into the new technologies would identify:







innovations/technologies that may create a demand for new and different trades.
the need for changes to training methodologies and content.
the need for any associated up-skilling for current tradespersons and workers.
sectors of the industry most affected by any changes.
regions that have adopted changes.
acceptance of new technologies.
Possible timeframe for implementation of changes
These outcomes will enable the Construction Training Fund to estimate and prepare for
the impact on future financial demand for training subsidies in new and developing
markets.
2
2.1
Evidence from the Research
Past Research – Technology in the future
The Construction and Property Services Industry Skills Council (CPSISC) for their
report ‘Future forecasts: Construction and Property Services Skills 2016–26’1 found that
an increase in new technologies, for example 3D and pre-fabrication may require a shift
in the skills and training, as well as a change in the attitudes of consumers and builders.
The CPSISC Environmental Scan 2013-2014 also identified the need to respond to the
substantial changes in technology, and for industry and the training sector to ensure
opportunities are given to workers to be trained in a range of skills with continual upskilling of existing workers.2 It was also stated that pre-fabricated housing has a potential
for growth, however, as per the Centre for International Economics Future Forecast
report,3 it is likely to penetrate to around only 10 percent of the future market.
1
2
3
Centre for International Economics for CPSISC (2013) Future Forecasts: Construction and Property Services Skills 2016-2026, Page 49
CPSISC (2014), Environment Scan 2013-14, Page 3
Centre for International Economics for CPSISC (2013) Future Forecasts: Construction and Property Services Skills 2016-2026
3
The Impact of New Technologies on the Construction Industry
The commercial sector was identified as being more widely engaged in the use of prefabricated technologies however, anecdotal evidence suggests its use is becoming
prolific and increasing steadily.
The Construction 2020 Vision Report4 of 2004 identified that in 5 -15 years’ time
(2009-2019) a wide range of products will probably be manufactured off-site and
assembled on-site. This change is predicted to result in better quality control, improved
site processes including Occupation Health and Safety, be environmentally friendly and
may reduce costs. The research also identified that the industry was not developing
adequate skills for the future.
Research by Curtin University, as a joint project between the Department of Housing
and the Department of Planning, was undertaken in 2012-13. The project, ‘The
Housing We’d Choose – a Study for Perth and Peel Regions’ included an on-line
survey of 1,071 people on ‘Housing Preferences and Trade-offs’ with 946 respondents.
In relation to preferred building materials the results indicate, at the time the survey was
undertaken, a large percentage of respondents (53%) preferred double brick
construction, 26% chose alternative sustainable materials while 5% chose brick veneer,
framed housing with cladding/weatherboard or pre-fabricated buildings. It was
suggested in this report that the share of the market could be bigger if there was more
information and promotion to create a better awareness of the alternative materials
available5.
In 2013, a not-for-profit body PrefabAUS6 (similar to those in other countries) was
formed to represent, showcase and advance Australia’s pre-fabricated building industry
through collaboration, innovation and education. On their website there are some
interesting facts on the history of pre-fabrication, for example, the Romans used prefabricated building elements to build their forts quickly and efficiently as early as AD 43,
indicating that pre-fabrication is not a new concept. With a body dedicated to the prefabrication industry, this may be an indication of a future with structured and quality
controlled development of a technology that has been in the background for many years,
and which may now have a place in the future of residential construction as well as the
commercial construction environment.
2.2
New and Emerging Technologies and Products in Construction
Embracing alternative products, including pre-fabrication, may require a shift in the skills
and training mix of industry. In addition, the attitudes of consumers and builders may
need to change in relation to their perceptions of the internal feel of the alternative
materials. Tilt up walls, slabs, pre-fabricated buildings and components are widely used
in the commercial sector but the adoption of these in the residential housing sector was
found to be minimal in 2009 research studies7. By 2014 the shift in the knowledge and
understanding of alternative materials appears to be growing.
Other factors relating to pre-fabricated and modular that have surfaced during this
research are:

Workplace, health and safety (WH&S) risks reduced due to reduced time on site,
less exposure to hazards and weather.

Skilled labour requirements, for example pre-fabricated walls and roofing may in
the future reduce the demand for trades such as bricklayers and roof tilers.

Efficiency in design and engineering may result in cost reductions in relation to
comparative products, saving on the cost of building a home, greater control of
4
Cooperative Research Centre for Construction Innovation (2004) Construction 2020 – A Vision for Australia’s Property and Construction
Industry, Pages 24-26
Department of Housing/ Department of Planning (2013), The Housing We’d Choose – a study for Perth and Peel Regions. Page 19
6
http://www.prefabaus.org.au
7
Daly 2009. Prefabricated Housing in Australia. Skill Deficiencies and Workplace Practice – International Specialised Skills Institute
5
4
The Impact of New Technologies on the Construction Industry
quality, reduced wastage on site, greater insulation and other properties
associated with sustainability requirements.

There is evidence of modular manufacturing in Malaysia being strongly
supported by the Malaysian Government. Modular units are then being shipped
to Australia and installed in reduced build times. In one example, electrical and
plumbing components are shipped from Australia to overseas manufacturers to
ensure that Australian Standards are met when shipped back to Australia8.

One of the major benefits of off-site manufactured products is significantly
reduced on-site construction time.

The ability to manufacture in a controlled environment avoids ‘downtime’ and the
effect of weather conditions.9

The impact of developments such as 3D printing could, in the future, replace
tradespeople by automatically building houses, or modules, in less than 24
hours. This technology is being introduced in China and cannot be ignored when
taking into consideration that around one million Australians are employed in the
Construction sector.10

One of the major stakeholders in the use of manufactured pre-fabricated
products stated that “Australian built pre-fabricated buildings and modules are
better quality products and meet all Australian Standards, are immediately
available when complete, with no hold ups, as is often the case with overseas
made products”.

In the Civil Construction sector, technology advances include updated
Trenchless Technology, Global Positioning Systems (GPS) and Ground
Penetrating Radar Systems (GPR). Driver-less (or robotic) vehicles and
excavators controlled by a supervisory computer at an operation centre (in real
time). The use of Tunnel Boring Machines (TBM) is not a new concept, but
becoming more popular. They replace the drill and blast method for underground
excavation. TBMs are used throughout Australia including under the Opera
House to evacuate roads to divert vehicles away from pedestrian traffic11, as
well as in many of Perth’s large infrastructure works, including rail tunnels which
were dug with special Japanese built TBMs to cope with Perth’s sandy soils.
Although this research identifies findings on the whole of the construction industry, it
does not segregate sectors within the industry for example, civil, residential and
commercial construction.
8
Face to face consultation with modular building supplier
Cooperative Research Centre for Construction Innovation (2004) Construction 2020 – A Vision for Australia’s Property and Construction
Industry
10
Price Waterhouse Coopers 2014 Expanding Australia’s Economy: How digital can drive the change Page 9
11
http://www.earthmover.com.au/news/2011/newswire/november/november-17/other-top-stories/sydney-opera-house-receives-newpipes/?searchterm=None
9
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The Impact of New Technologies on the Construction Industry
2.3
Scope of Surveys
Consultations
Site visits (n=7) were conducted plus on-site
consultations by Training Support Officers
(Appendix 1)
Face-to-Face (n=9) consultations were
conducted
Telephone Interviews including email
enquiries (Appendix 2)
Unsolicited feedback (Appendix 3)
E-Mail and web-based surveys (Appendix 4)
2.4
Source
 State of the Art Trade Training Centres at
Registered Training Providers
 Modular building companies
 Building companies using a range of alternative
building materials
 Training Support Officers – apprentice employer
consultations

Modular Construction companies

Building Information Modelling committees

Materials and products

Civil Construction
The Survey was developed around a number of easily
entered responses to a series of questions.
The Survey was emailed to 263 recipients including
employers, builders and industry stakeholders.
Key Findings
Based on stakeholder feedback during this research, the following predictions are made:

Trade Predictions
Trades reducing
Bricklayers
Plasterers
Other occupations to reduce
Up-skilling required
Most traditional trades will decline if wall construction
methodology changes.
Traffic Controllers (less on site management)
Carpenters
Cabinet makers
Wall and Floor Tilers
Concreters
Steel fixers
Drainers
Wall & Ceiling Fixers
Plumbers
Roof Plumbers
Installation Teams
Draftsperson
Electrical (in-house contracting)
Truck Drivers
Residential Building Trades
Frame welders
Crane Drivers
Computer Technicians
Carpenters
Readily Available
Electricians
Trades increasing
Other occupations liable to increase
A significant amount of respondents believe that the number of trade classifications will change due to the
impact of pre-fabrication and modular construction.
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The Impact of New Technologies on the Construction Industry
2.5
Building Information Modelling (BIM)
With regards to the impact of BIM, and in response to the CPSISC 2014-2015
Environment Scan, Business Review Weekly stated that:
“The industry is keen (to implement). The use of BIM in construction has the
potential to save firms between 3 per cent and 5 per cent in costs….BIM could have
a huge effect not just in design and construction, but on the economy…could boost
gross domestic product by 0.2 basis points above the “business as usual scenario”
rising to 5 points by 2025”.12
Following a summit between the Australian Construction Industry Forum (ACIF) and the
Australian Procurement and Construction Council (APCC) in 2013, the organisations
have combined to develop a new online library of resources. The library places Building
Information Modelling into a single repository and those associated with architecture or
construction then have direct access to information on BIM.13

Current Training
There is limited introductory BIM training available in Western Australia and, if
available, training is at the professional high end of BIM, aimed at Architects,
Engineers etc.

Future Training
o
An Australian Institute of Architects (AIA) committee in WA, in conjunction with
Universities and some of the Technology Institutes (TAFE), is in the process of
developing information and qualifications relating to high level BIM.
“A key aim is to improve standardisation, education and demystification of BIM in
Australia. The Committee can provide clear, practical advice and guidance on all
matters relating to BIM.”
12
13
o
In response to the survey question, “Are you aware of BIM”, 75% of respondents
answered No, with 50% of these interested in a short practical introductory
course if one was available in West Australia. This appears to indicate that there
may be a need for this type of training for employers and employees unfamiliar
with BIM. The introductory course would enable them to obtain a basic
understanding of BIM and to decide if they would like to engage in further
training.
o
Eastern State Training Funds and Training Councils were contacted to ascertain
their involvement in BIM. The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) in
South Australia was forthcoming with information on courses they have
developed. A copy of “A Practical Introductory Guide to Building Information
Modelling” student handbook was released to the Fund for viewing only. This
one or two day course could be a suitable introductory course for WA based
training providers to deliver, possibly using trainers who meet South Australia’s
delivery criteria. As resource materials are available for trainers, resource
development work would not be required; there would however be a requirement
to purchase the materials.
o
If new technologies become widely accepted in the residential sector, then there
could be a reduction in the on-site construction workforce and an increase in the
manufacturing workforce. The same workers could be involved in this change
but there would predictably be a reduction in the combined workforce.
o
If, as expected, BIM becomes the industry standard then all contractors will need
to develop a working awareness and understanding of BIM at lower levels.
Michael Bleby, (2013) Business Review Weekly, 18 September 2013 extract from CPSISC 2014-15 Environmental Scan.
http://sourceable.net/australia-set-for-bim-library/
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The Impact of New Technologies on the Construction Industry
3
Conclusions

The use of modular and pre-fabricated construction is having an impact in the
commercial and regional residential sector more than in mainstream or metropolitan
residential construction.

The use of driver-less trucks including excavators, is viewed by the Civil
Construction sector to be one of the most important technologies that may impact
the sector in the long term. Vehicles incorporating GPS, laser and radar detection
sensors, wireless communication networks and vehicle controllers will initially be
operated by a supervisory computer in an on-site Operations Centre. Already one
company in Western Australia, using this technology, is planning to move the
Operations Centre to Perth where the system will be controlled 24 hours a day. In
regard to safety issues, the trucks are fitted with an obstacle detection system with
the automated truck programmed to stop or reduce speed. This technology may, in
the long term, create an employment shift due to the reduction in the use of plant
operators and an increase in computer techicians.31

The implementation of new technologies could accelerate rapidly if housing codes
(sustainability) are raised.

New technologies may be slow to gain acceptance in the residential sector due to
the WA market being heavily biased towards double brick construction.

There is an identified change in the use of new technology in the commercial sector,
particularly in the North West where they are using manufactured components from
overseas facilities.

Major builders could be the major drivers of change if they market alternative
building options, especially in the lower end of the market (affordable housing).

No specific upgrading of trade qualifications or courses appears to be required at
this stage, other than within apprenticeship training. This requirement is usually
undertaken by the Training Package developers during review processes.

Up-skilling and cross skilling will be needed in the future. This will possibly require
the introduction of short course skills training, or in-house training, for existing
workers as there will be cross trades skills utilised for Modular construction. For
example, up-skilling a roof carpenter to perform wall and floor fixing, steel framing
etc.

Short course skills training can be developed and implemented within the
Construction Industry where the training occurs after completion of a trade
qualification.

The share of the modular and alternative building material market could significantly
increase if more information and promotion occurs with potential homebuyers to
create a better awareness of the alternative building methods available14.

Wet Trades, particularly bricklaying have been identified by this research as being
the most at risk. However in the Eastern States this trade appears to remain in
demand.15 This may be due to them having high volumes of brick veneer housing
construction due to population demand; therefore, the number of bricklayers will
remain at current levels considering the ageing trade cohort.
14
15
Department of Housing/ Department of Planning (2013), The Housing We’d Choose – a study for Perth and Peel Regions. Page 19
http://sourceable.net/plasterers-bricklayers-wanted-for-brisbane-housing-boom/
8
The Impact of New Technologies on the Construction Industry

There is strong evidence to demonstrate acceptance of pre-fabricated construction
especially in the Park Homes, North West resources sector accommodation sector,
regional offices (Government) and to some extent the residential market.

The ability to utilise the local metropolitan, rather than regional workforce is identified
as a strong driver for modular pre-fabrication construction.

The level of BIM training demand will depend on the lowering of the minimum value
of contract that must use BIM.

The use of lower level BIM will increase slowly, as the start-up cost of using BIM at
all levels is currently viewed as prohibitive.

Monitor the introduction of BIM requirements for the construction workforce and
establish if further training is being developed both nationally and internationally.

Training providers wishing to deliver courses such as the “Practical Introductory
Guide to Building Information Modelling” course can contact the copyright holder
directly and then discuss funding with CTF.

In respect to the requirements of the apprenticeship training contract and the
implementation of specialised new construction processes, employers should ensure
that apprentices obtain the breadth of knowledge to complete their apprenticeship.
Training Support Officers could raise this issue at each site visit and employer
consultation, and advise employers of the benefits of rotating apprentices’ skills. This
may require apprentices to gain experience on other sites, as is the case with Group
Training Organisations.
4
Recommendations
Recommendations from this research;

Ensure that the State Priority Occupation List (SPOL) contains the trade occupations
that have been identified in this research as being required in the future. This will
assist the industry to cope with new technology in the use of residential and
commercial pre-fabrication and modular build methods. The current annual review
of the SPOL may need to be reduced to six months as change in demand for
occupations could change progressively and rapidly over the next two to five years.

The Construction Training Fund to consider subsidising an Introduction to BIM
course as part of the Supplementary Skills program. This will ensure the
construction workforce can gain basic knowledge to meet what may eventually be a
mandatory requirement for use of various levels of BIM depending on construction
project value.

Higher level BIM courses should NOT be subsidised as they are highly specialised,
expensive and aimed more at the professional level of industry.

Provide subsidies for basic courses that can help mature workers understand new
Computer/IPhone/IPad
technology
including
Construction
software
for
tendering/estimating programs. Training in electronic form filling and providing
information to construction workers and employers on the many Construction
Applications available, should also be included.28
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The Impact of New Technologies on the Construction Industry
APPENDIX 1
NEW TECHNOLOGY FINDINGS
Surveys and face to face consultations identified discrete clusters of new technologies
and the impact it may have on trade skills.
Water, Solar and Gas Related
TYPE
FINDINGS
Photovoltaic Solar panels / Solar Water
Up-skilling identified due to the safety aspect with the PV panels due to
possibility of electric shock.
Under water wave driven power
generation- (Carnegie Wave Energy)
No known up-skilling required.
Solar /Diesel generators/
Backup Inverters
No known up-skilling required.
Battery
Waterplex 16, Gasplex pipe replaces
copper piping
Water, Gas and Heat Polyethylene piping can now be used and the need
for additional training alleviated as manuals and instructions are provided
by manufacturer to existing licenced trades persons and are now part of
apprentice training.
Wind Farms, Solar Farms, Waste
Treatment Farms, Greywater collection,
Retention of Rainwater in Greenwater
Tanks (already used in RTO Training
facilities), Sewer Technology
Up-skilling may be required for existing workers but this component is
now part of apprentice training.
Modular
Pre-fabricated homes
Manufactured off-site in factory/workshops, out of inclement weather, and
delivered to site on semi-trailers. Cranes are required to lift components
and more crane operators may be required in the future.
Modular and individual room/unit
construction
Manufactured off-site and assembled in a ‘Lego’TM type construction,
including camp style accommodation. Fold out shipping containers come
fully fitted out with all modular components, kitchens and bathrooms then
transported to site for assembling. Existing trades such as plumbers,
electricians, crane drivers, carpenters can be used.
Bathroom and kitchen pre-fabricated
modular units (Pods)
Manufactured off-site. Fully fitted out units connected to an existing
structural frame. Existing trades can be used.
Panels (Walls)
Structural frame elements used to create space, such as Structural
Insulated Panels (SIPs) - polystyrene plastic core, faced both surfaces
with strand board, precast concrete panels and structural wooden
panels.17 The AFS Wall system consists of lightweight sandwich panels
created by bonding fibre cement sheets to galvanized steel stud frames,
then core filled with concrete. Used for internal and external walls. 18
Some up-skilling may be needed.
Components
Pre-cut, pre-assembled components such as doors and trusses when not
feasible to produce on-site. Existing trades can be used.
Unitised Building (UB) TM System
A structural building system, manufactured by Hickory Building Systems,
which accelerates on and off-site construction by up to 50% 19, reducing
material and waste and ensuring safety and quality. Used for mining and
resource accommodation villages as well as medium/high density
residential. Also patented technology for prefabricated bathroom pods. 20
No known up-skilling identified – in-house training may be utilised.
16
http://www.waterplex.com.au/index.htm
Steinhardt, D, Manley, K, Miller, W 2012 Reshaping Housing – the role of prefabricated systems Page 6
www.afswall.com.au
19
http://www.hickory.com.au/prefab/about-us-63/
20
www.syncbuildingsystems.com.au/
17
18
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The Impact of New Technologies on the Construction Industry
Flooring, Walls and Slabs
Pre-stressed reinforced concrete floor
No concrete pad required, supporting points used instead. Manufactured
off-site.
Pre-cast concrete
Manufactured off–site.
EzyProfile - Slab profiling Tool
For easy slab set up, new re-usable tool to replace traditional profiling
system on a building site. Limited training may be provided by
manufacturer.
BubbleDeck © flooring
Pre-constructed concrete flooring system with bubble spheres
throughout, therefore reducing the weight of the slab used for multi-story
structures and amount of material. No known up-skilling identified.
Double glazed windows and double ply
walls
Eliminates noise factor – being used in Trade Training Centres between
workshop and classrooms. No known up-skilling identified.
Tilt-up panels
Manufactured off-site. Not a new product but becoming more popular and
well known. Mainly used in commercial situations.
Steel frames and roof truss systems
Light gauge steel provides a product on-site that carpenters can easily
understand and trades can easily work with.
Framing and plasterboard lining
In lieu of brickwork and plaster.
Hebel
Light weight panels for ceilings, floors – used in residential buildings by
local builders. Some in-house training may be required.
Unitex textured/coloured render
Quicker and easier exterior application reducing labour component. No
identified up-skilling
Timber cladding
Not a new product but becoming more popular. No identified up-skilling.
Spray-on plastering or use of ‘dry wall’
in double brick construction
This will impact on the plastering trade as dry wall on brick process is
used overseas as alternative to hardwall plastering. Some up-skilling may
be required.
Waffle Pods28
The ‘Waffle Pod Slab System’ is a method of building concrete slabs for
new homes, extensions or commercial industrial buildings. The on-ground
slab, with air pockets created by the Pods, forms an insulating layer
between the structure and the ground.21 No identified up-skilling.
Computer and Associated Technology
3D hand held computers
3D Printing
Intuitive and able to scan spaces/rooms for placement of pipes etc.
Already used for off-site manufacture of stone/granite worktops.
Additive manufacturing or 3D printing is a process of making three
dimensional solid objects from a digital model. The process uses additive
processes where an object is created by laying down successive layers of
material. 3D printing is considered distinct from traditional machining
techniques (subtractive processes) which mostly rely on the removal of
material by drilling and cutting22. Specialised training will need to be
undertaken.
Building Information Modelling (BIM)
Used throughout the world and is becoming more popular in Australia.
Various levels of BIM are used and some Government Departments have
a mandatory limit that requires BIM to be used for example, in buildings
over $50M set by the Department of Finance, Building Maintenance
Works in WA. The type of training required will depend on the level of
BIM used.
Global Positioning System (GPS) for
wireless infrastructure
This technology is helping to provide a skill which may reduce the time
people take to achieve master final trim standards from approximately 15
years to around 10 years. ‘This same technology (combining GPS,
21
22
www.wafflepod.com/wafflepod
Wikipedia (2014) 3D Printing http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/3D_printing http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Building_printing
11
The Impact of New Technologies on the Construction Industry
wireless communications, and computers) is used for foundation works
(e.g., pile positioning) and structural placement (e.g., prefabricated bridge
sections and coastal structures). In these applications, the operators are
guided through the on-board computer displays, eliminating the need for
conventional methods”.23 In-house training may be required or provided
by the manufacturer.
Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR)
Systems for Mining and Civil
Construction
GPR is a geophysical method that uses radar pulses to image the
subsurface and detects reflected signals from subsurface structures. Is
used in a variety of materials, e.g. soil, rock, ice etc. and can detect
objects and material changes.24 Similar fast tracking of skills and training
may occur, as for the GPS technology.
Spectra Precision Laser Transmitters
for Civil and General construction
Construction positioning technology to help precisely control tasks like
long-range high-accuracy elevation control and fine grading for major
projects. Some models suitable for general construction. 25 Similar fast
tracking of skills and training may occur, as for the GPS technology.
IPhone/IPad/Computer technology and
software tendering programs.
IPhone Construction Apps available with tendering/estimation programs 27
becoming popular with builders and construction companies when
tendering for projects to ensure they do not under-price.
Advanced Virtual Design and Construct
Software such as VICO26
VICO 5D Virtual Construction TM Software solutions pioneered the
category of BIM for Construction. Training would be required at some
stage as this software extends to use at the site level28
Other areas of Technology
Changes to Building Code of Australia
(Volume One and Two of the National
Construction Code) and Australian
Standards28
In house training, seminars or from the Australian Building Codes
Board website
New
Australian Quality
Training
Framework Training Packages and
training solutions for the industry28
In house training and/or through the Department of Training and
Workforce Development
Occupation Workplace
Safety Act 2011
New legislation was expected to be introduced into West Australian
Parliament early in 2014. In house training or from the Department of
Commerce website
Health
and
Trenchless Technology advances
This is not a new technology, but is constantly upgraded for the
growing construction and civil industry sector. It includes tunnelling,
directional drilling and other methods to install pipelines and cables
below ground with minimal excavation.29 Upskilling of current trades
may be required with a likely increase in current tradespersons.
Diamond Grid
Manufactured from recycled plastics, this product is used for surface
stabilisation and erosion control. It is also used to reinforce turfed
areas, provide drainage, embankment stabilisation and for driveways
and internal roads.30 In-house training may be required or provided by
the manufacturer.
Driver-less trucks (this technology will
not have a major impact in the short
term)
Robotic haul trucks, vehicles and excavators may become a part of
most major projects in the long term.31 Being a computer assisted
technology; the upskilling of current computer technicians may be
required as well as training by the manufacture to run these machines.
A reduction in the need for as many plant operators, particularly in
dangerous and repetitive situations, may occur.
This list contains only the products/methods that were identified during this research and is not definitive.
23
http://www.globalspec.com/reference/66261/203279/10-4-gps-for-civil-engineering-applications
Wikipedia (2014) http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ground-penetrating_radar
www.sitechwa.com.au. http://www.trimble.com/construction-tools/gl700.aspx?dtID=overview&
26
www.vicosoftware.com
27
Extract from article on the Cordell website http://www.cordellestimating.com.au/main/estimatorv5.aspx
28
Survey responses
29
Wikipedia http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trenchless_technology
30
www.allearth.com.au
31
http://machinedesign.com/constructionoff-road/drones-come-down-earth-ugvs-and-driverless-vehicles-reality
24
25
12
The Impact of New Technologies on the Construction Industry
APPENDIX 2
CHANGES IN DEMAND FOR EXISTING OR NEW TRADES
Following face to face interviews and survey responses, the following trades or
occupations were identified as those where demand will change due to the use of
current and future new technology.
TRADE OR OCCUPATION
Assembly/production line workers
FINDING
High demand - Required to assemble components
Schedulers
Designers
Project Managers
Procurement Officers
Crane Drivers
No change
No change
No change
No change
High Demand. Expected increase in demand as modular
constructions for constructing hotels, apartments and residential
houses become more established. Pre-built modular components
including bathrooms, kitchens, living areas, whether completed in
Australia or overseas will need to be both transported (long haul
trucks) and removed from the transport vehicle by cranes.
Change in methodology
Less demand
No change
Increase in demand
No change
Increase. Due to more steel components
Change in material only so carpenters could be up-skilled to this
trade
Demand increase in regional areas - may be a skill shortage trade
Increase in regional areas
Carpenters could up-skill to this trade
Bricklayers could be up-skilled to do spray plastering, particularly if
double brick housing is reduced therefore creating less reliance on
32
this trade, with a likely increase in Wall and Ceiling Fixers/Liners
Current shortage – Impacted by BIM. High training component
Current shortage – Impacted by BIM. High training component
Current shortage – Impacted by BIM. High training component
Current shortage – Impacted by BIM. High training component
Training required due to change in building technology – probably
rely on in-house training.
Severe shortage targeted by Building Commission, plus the added
disadvantage of no training in West Australia, online delivery is
available from Eastern States
Logistics Expertise
Scaffolders
Roofing Plumbers
Welders
Electricians
Shop drawers
Steel Framers
Concreter/ Concrete Finishers*
Riggers
Light framing – wood or steel
Plasterers
Residential Estimators*
Residential Schedulers*
Draftsperson (already experienced)*
Draftsperson (newly qualified *
New Home Consultants*
Building Surveyors*
Carpenters/Joiners
Earthworkers
Landscapers
Painters
Carpet/Vinyl Layers
Wall and Ceiling Fixers/Liners
All
Trades
affected
technology
Computer Technicians
by
Trenchless Technology
Civil construction new technology
new
Big demand for this trade in modular construction, expected to be
able to complete other associated skills and also be up-skilled to
handle steel
No change
No change
No change – in manufacturing process
No change – in manufacturing process
Demand will increase with the expected growth in modular
constructions
Apprentices will be working on new technology construction
33
processes and increase in specialisation
With Civil Construction technology there may be a need for
increased numbers of computer technicians on major civil projects
in the long term.
Up-skilling with an increase in demand
Some trades will increase due to the high level of new technology
in this sector.
* Occupations identified by industry to be skills of high to critical shortage.
32
33
Major builder
CTF Training Support Officer
13
The Impact of New Technologies on the Construction Industry
APPENDIX 3
FACE-TO-FACE CONSULTATIONS
INCLUDING SITE VISITS
(n=16)
CONTACT
1
ORGANISATION
Training Provider
TYPE OF VISIT
On-site
2
Building Maintenance
Works
Office based
consultation
3
Training Provider
On-site
4
Training Provider
On-site
5
BIM Committee
6
Modular builder
Committee
meeting
Office based
consultation
7
Office based
consultation
8
Training Provider and
Group Training
Organisation (GTO)
Builder
9
Industry body
Office based
consultation
10
Product
Office-based
11
Modular office builder
On-site
12
BIM Roundtable
13
14
Product and Services
Modular/transportable
home builder
Builder and
manufacturer
Modular homes
Office based
meeting
Exhibition
On-site viewing
15
16
On-site
On-site viewing
On-site viewing
Comments
Inspection of new centre due to
open in 2014
Discussion regarding BIM and
the BMW commitment to its
future use.
Inspection of new centre and
any new technology/
methodologies being used
Specialising in
Painting/Plumbing/Carpentry
Discussion on BIM and the
need for education and training
Modular building – Overseas
built – components supplied to
ensure meet Australian
Standards
Trades and new technologies
Three town houses using
different construction methods
and products for each one.
New technology in Civil that
could impact on workforce
training and skills
GPS /laser for paving, roads
mainly mining and civil
Modular offices and
accommodation built on-site
and shipped to North West by
road transport.
Roundtable discussion
Diamond Grid
Viewed modular homes under
construction.
Pre-fabricated modules and
TM
Bubbledeck
Viewed modular homes under
construction and completed
buildings.
14
The Impact of New Technologies on the Construction Industry
APPENDIX 4
TELEPHONE INTERVIEWS
INCLUDING EMAIL (Enquiries)
CONTACT
1
ORGANISATION
Construction Industry
Training Board (SA)
SUBJECT
BIM progress and
education and
training.
2
Products and services
Poly piping for water
and gas
3
Product and services
Easy set-up of
profile/marking of area
for concrete slab
4
Sub-Contractor
IPhone technology
and the over 40 years
of age construction
workers
5
Builder
Skills shortages
6
Department of
Planning
Building Material
preferences
Comments
New course
developed and being
delivered for Adelaide
Hospital site
Provides on line
training to registered
users of products.
Also provides
information /product
for RTOs to use when
training.
Provides training
information /kits for
RTO to incorporate in
the training.
Mature workers not
up-to-date with
IPhone, IPad,
computer technology
– need more training
in this area.
Advised of main areas
of skills shortage
being experienced.
Result of report
provided with relevant
data.
15
The Impact of New Technologies on the Construction Industry
APPENDIX 5
UNSOLICITED FEEDBACK
CONTACT
ORGANISATION
SUBJECT
Comments
1
Builder
Modular construction
2
Building Commission
Building Surveyors
and Modular Building
3 50+ participants
Stakeholder Planning
Workshop (18/03/14)
Various
4
GTO
Modular Construction
Will be big in the
future – almost like
Lego building
Big shortage of
Building Surveyors.
Modular will become
popular
Feedback
incorporated
throughout the report
Appears to be an
increase of modular
use in the South-West
16
The Impact of New Technologies on the Construction Industry
APPENDIX 6
SURVEY
Survey Monkey – Email
(263 recipients – with 37 responses (14%) at 30/4/14)
17
The Impact of New Technologies on the Construction Industry
18