Human factors in introducing on-site construction automation

Implementation of automation and robotics is being considered by segments of the construction industry as part of an overall program to increase productivity, safety, and quality, and to remain competitive in the face of growing global competition. The limited experience of applying robots to construction, together with conclusions drawn on the basis of robotic applications in related areas, show that developing efficient robotic systems alone will not ensure successful implementation. Significant resistance was observed in the manufacturing industry, which seriously impeded successful implementation. In addition to this, the conservative nature of the construction industry suggests potentially significant levels of resistance to the introduction of project-level 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 the introduction of automation and robotics, as experienced in selected manufacturing industries, are summarized, followed by an exploration of their applicability to construction. A strategy for the implementation of an automated system is developed, relating to resistance to automation elements and successful reduction actions in manufacturing.