HUMAN-FACTORS IN INTRODUCING ON-SITE CONSTRUCTION AUTOMATION

Implementation of automation and robotics is being considered by segme nts of the construction industry as part of an overall program to incr ease productivity, safety, and quality, and to remain competitive in t he face of growing global competition. The limited experience of apply ing robots to construction, together with conclusions drawn on the bas is of robotic applications in related areas, show that developing effi cient robotic systems alone will not ensure successful implementation. Significant resistance was observed in the manufacturing industry, wh ich seriously impeded successful implementation. In addition to this, the conservative nature of the construction industry suggests potentia lly significant levels of resistance to the introduction of project-le vel automation and robotics. The present paper reviews several limited introductions of automation into the construction industry and finds evidence of resistance. The sources and the causes of resistance to th e introduction of automation and robotics, as experienced in selected manufacturing industries, are summarized, followed by an exploration o f their applicability to construction. A strategy for the implementati on of an automated system is developed, relating to resistance to auto mation elements and successful reduction actions in manufacturing.