The construction industry has evolved over the years, and in today's era, the need for technology in the process has become vital. Planning, budgeting, and executing building projects are no longer just about manual labor, but also require the right set of tools and equipment to get the job done. From small handhelds to heavy machinery, they all play significant roles, and keeping track of them can be challenging. This is where the Internet of Things (IoT) technology comes in to revolutionize the industry and make things easier and efficient. In this blog, we will explore how Tools & equipment tracking with IoT is impacting the construction industry and its benefits.
With the IoT, construction firms can now easily track their tools and equipment and monitor their crews in real-time. This ensures that supervisors can detect and prevent equipment from being stolen or misplaced. For instance, wearable sensors can be attached to employees' clothing to track their movements and ensure that they stay within the worksite perimeter. Additionally, GPS tracking systems can be fitted on heavy machinery to prevent theft.
IoT-enabled tools come fitted with sensors that help monitor the health of the equipment. They can detect when equipment needs maintenance or repair and alert the supervisor, ensuring that maintenance is conducted promptly. This helps in preventing production downtime, increasing equipment lifespan, and minimizing maintenance costs. Furthermore, IoT-based tools can also assist workers in accessing the equipment they need immediately, reducing downtime in finding misplaced tools and equipment.
IoT helps construction firms keep a detailed record of equipment inventory, such as asset age, condition, maintenance history, and usage details. IoT-connected devices can transmit critical data such as location, usage time, and maintenance schedule, making it easier to track equipment. This reduces the chances of costly equipment downtime, reduces management complexity, and minimizes misplacement.
IoT-based tools and equipment tracking can be costly. However, with the right devices and software, such costs are justified by the increased internal efficiency levels and shareholder value obtained. IoT-based platforms can track efficiency savings, such as reducing compliancy costs, and full utilizin the equipment available. In turn, construction sites can operate more efficiency, leading to efficiency saving and increased productivity.
Construction project managers must meet several regulatory and internal guideline compliancy requirements. IoT-based tools assist in monitoring compliance requirements and ensuring they are met. IoT-enabled tools can track compliance with standards such as OSHA compliance in the U.S by tracking personnel and their movements, ensuring safety measures are met, and logging usage of EPA hazardous materials.
IoT technology is revolutionizing how the construction industry operates by introducing a level of efficiency and transparency in the tracking of equipment leading to more efficient site operations. IoT-based tools help construction companies optimize production processes, ultimately leading to reduced operating costs and better management of construction sites. By tracking their equipment throughout construction sites, construction companies can prevent theft, reduce downtimes, and optimize compliance efforts. Consequently, IoT systems in the construction industry are capable of delivering operational cost reductions, increased productivity, as well as offer better ROI.
