At Equinox HIT, we manage the technology implemented to support new healthcare facilities. But what about the technologies used by the construction teams to design and build the buildings? What has changed? The landscape is undergoing a significant transformation driven by advancements in automation and technology.
Automation is revolutionizing the construction industry, offering numerous benefits such as increased efficiency, reduced costs, and improved safety. According to McKinsey, construction automation can lead to up to 50% productivity gains. Technologies such as robotics, AI, virtual reality (VR), and advanced software are streamlining processes from design to execution, enabling construction teams to deliver projects faster and with greater precision.
The Rise of Automation in Construction
In healthcare construction, automation can play a central role in managing complex projects. As construction technologies continue to advance, construction teams will see increasing benefits.
AI is increasingly used in new construction, particularly in generative design, optimization of building layouts, material selection, identification of safety hazards, and analysis of environmental factors. This allows architects and engineers to create more efficient and sustainable designs while streamlining the construction process.
Building Information Modeling (BIM) allows for detailed 3D models that integrate various systems and components, facilitating better planning and coordination. This technology helps construction teams anticipate potential issues before construction begins and make informed decisions, ultimately leading to more efficient project delivery. Those integrated with VR help stakeholders visualize the final product more accurately and make informed decisions early in the design process. Advancements in augmented reality (AR) tools are underway and have a lot of potential for integration with BIMs.
Robots are being deployed for demolition, excavation, automated bricklaying, concrete pouring, and heavy materials transport. They speed up timelines, minimize rework, and help with labor shortages.
Drones are increasingly used in construction for site surveys, site mapping, monitoring progress, identifying safety hazards, inspecting hard-to-reach areas, and reducing the need for workers to be in dangerous areas of the project site. They provide construction teams with accurate and up-to-date data, which can improve project timelines and reduce errors.
Impacts
While automation brings numerous benefits to construction teams, it also introduces new challenges and considerations:
Integration of Advanced Technologies
The integration of advanced technologies optimizes the use of resources; however, it also requires construction teams to adapt to new workflows, technological skills, and processes. This can be challenging, especially for teams accustomed to traditional construction methods. Change management will ensure buy-in from all stakeholders. Training and upskilling the workforce to effectively use these technologies and work alongside machines is essential.
Data Management
Using drones, BIM, and other automated systems generates a significant amount of data. Effectively managing this data is crucial for making informed decisions and optimizing project outcomes. Construction teams need to ensure that they select reputable advanced technology vendors with the necessary infrastructure and tools to handle large datasets and maintain data security.
Connectivity
Construction sites may lack the necessary connectivity and hardware to support the effective operation of advanced technologies. Construction teams need to identify how the technologies will be connected, either through reliable cellular or internet connectivity, and transfer relevant data during the duration of the project.
Cybersecurity
Cybersecurity has become a significant concern with the increased use of connected devices and automated systems. Construction teams must work closely with advanced technology vendors and the Health IT department to implement robust security measures to protect against potential cyber threats. This includes securing communication channels and ensuring that all devices are compliant with security standards.
Safety
There is an emerging need for new safety standards and research to address the unique hazards associated with drone flights and human-robot collaboration on construction sites.
Preparing for the Future of Healthcare Construction
As healthcare and construction technologies accelerate, healthcare IT teams must be agile and forward-thinking. Partnering with Equinox HIT ensures that your projects adopt a modern approach to technology implementations during construction and are equipped to meet the demands of tomorrow's healthcare landscape. By leveraging our expertise, we help bridge the gap between construction and IT, ensuring your new build is to the highest standards and ready to support advanced EHRs, remote patient monitoring, and AI-driven patient care systems from day one.
Equinox HIT is your HIT construction partner. For more information on how Equinox HIT can help your organization successfully integrate IT into healthcare construction projects, please contact us today.
References
Asset Lifecycle. “Hospitals Contend with Construction Challenges.” Asset Lifecycle, 2023. Link
CDC. “Transforming Construction: Automation and Robotics for a Safer Future.” CDC, 2024. Link
Construction Dive. “The Rise of Artificial Intelligence in Construction.” Construction Dive, 2023. Link
Kahua. “Transforming Healthcare Construction: Navigating Change Management for Tech Adoption.” Kahua, 2023. Link
McKinsey & Company. “The Impact and Opportunities of Automation in Construction.” McKinsey & Company, 2023. Link
Tealcom. “The Rise of Robots in Construction and the Impact of Mission Critical Connectivity.” Tealcom, 2023. Link
TransLogic. “The Future of Hospital Architecture & Its Impact.” TransLogic, 2023. Link