The Escalating Threat of Heat Stress in Construction

Heat stress is a serious medical condition that occurs when the body cannot adequately dissipate heat, leading to heat exhaustion and, in severe cases, heat stroke. Heat exhaustion manifests as fatigue, dizziness and excessive sweating, while heat stroke is a life-threatening emergency, potentially resulting in organ failure and death.

Construction sites present unique risk factors, including prolonged direct sun exposure, physically demanding labor and heat-trapping personal protective equipment. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, environmental heat exposure resulted in 999 fatalities from 1992 to 2021. As climate change intensifies heat waves, the urgency of addressing heat stress through effective monitoring and prevention strategies must become a priority for construction professionals.

Proactive Safety: Beyond Traditional Prevention Methods

Traditional heat safety protocols, such as access to water, rest breaks and shade, are essential but often lack real-time, individualized protection for workers. These reactive measures may not address the urgent needs of workers in extreme heat conditions. By leveraging technology, the construction industry can transition from reactive to proactive safety measures for workers.

Now, the industry is also improving hazard mitigation through real-time monitoring. Technologies such as drones and robotics are not new in the sector, but are now employed to identify jobsite risks in real time, enhancing safety and reducing production delays. This existing momentum also presents an opportunity to integrate individual-level safety technologies, providing every worker adequate protection from problems like heat stress.

The New Guard: Wearable Technology for Heat Stress Monitoring

Wearable technology is revolutionizing the way safety officers monitor heat stress on construction sites by providing real-time insights into physiological indicators. These innovative devices enable construction professionals to take proactive measures to protect against heat-related conditions, helping ensure the safety and wellbeing of workers in extreme environments. Below are several types of wearable technologies designed for this purpose.

Biometric Sensors and Smart Patches

Biometric sensors and smart patches stick directly to the skin, continuously tracking vital metrics such as core body temperature, heart rate and sweat rate in real time. These devices use advanced algorithms that analyze physiological data, providing early warnings of potential heat stress before workers themselves even notice symptoms. By promptly alerting individuals and supervisors, these sensors facilitate timely interventions that significantly reduce the risk of serious heat-related incidents.

Smart Hard Hats and Helmets

Smart helmets and hard hats represent another innovative approach to heat stress monitoring. These integrated systems measure the worker’s internal state by tracking body temperature and heart rate and also assess the external environment by gauging ambient temperature and humidity. This dual functionality enables comprehensive monitoring, ensuring that workers remain informed about hazardous working conditions. Real-time data activates alerts, enabling immediate action to protect workers’ health.

Connected Vests and Apparel

Connected vests and smart clothing equipped with embedded sensors offer continuous health monitoring within the construction environment. These garments provide real-time data on physiological indicators, similar to the biometric sensors, but some vests also feature manual or automatically triggered cooling systems. This functionality enhances worker comfort and safety, keeping them cool and maximizing productivity even in extreme temperatures.

From Data to Action: Implementing a Wearable Safety Program

The true value of wearable technology lies not only in the devices themselves, but also in the actionable data they generate and the responses they enable. By implementing a comprehensive wearable safety program, construction stakeholders can harness real-time insights that improve worker safety. A central dashboard becomes an essential tool, enabling site supervisors to monitor the status of all their workers simultaneously.

This dashboard provides alerts when individuals approach critical thresholds, enabling prompt intervention before heat stress escalates to a more severe condition. By adopting a proactive, prioritized, data-driven approach, construction teams can significantly accelerate decision-making, mitigate risks and ensure a safer work environment amidst a culture of accountability and care.

Examples of How Wearable Technology Can Help

Several construction companies have successfully integrated wearable technology into their safety protocols, with NIOSH resources reporting positive feedback on the real-time integrations. A suggested scenario used the following example of the difference the technology can make.

A construction worker’s biometric sensor triggered a rising-heart-rate and core-temperature alert. The worker’s supervisor immediately instructed the employee to take a break at a designated cooling station. This timely intervention helped avert a potential medical emergency.

Additionally, the data collected from scenarios like the above can inform long-term safety planning, such as adjusting work schedules on particularly hot days and identifying workers who may be more susceptible to heat stress.

The Future of the Connected Jobsite

The integration of wearable technology on construction sites promises numerous benefits, including improved worker safety, reduced incident rates, fewer project delays and a stronger safety culture. However, challenges such as securing worker buy-in and addressing data privacy concerns remain, and stakeholders must navigate these thoughtfully. As technology continues evolving, the connected and data-driven jobsite is becoming an increasingly standardized symbol of safety and efficiency within the construction industry.

Embracing advancements in real-time wearable tech and other modern technologies will lead to enhanced protection for workers and a commitment to ongoing safety improvements in the field.

SEE ALSO: ANALYZING THE BENEFITS OF EXOSKELETON USE ON CONSTRUCTION JOBSITES

The post Leveraging Real-Time Wearable Tech to Reduce Heat Stress on Construction Sites first appeared on Construction Executive.

Construction Technology That Actually Works

Construction technology should target sources of profit loss, such as downtime, rework, budget overruns and safety incidents. Here are proven investments with measurable ROI.

Building Information Modeling

The concept of 3D modeling has been valuable in producing geometric representations of blueprints. Building information modeling takes it a step further by creating and managing extensive project data, including costs, materials and schedules.

Companies can expect better stakeholder collaboration and reduced rework when they connect on these crucial elements and stay aligned. BIM is already expected to increase from $10.27 billion in 2026 to $27.12 billion by 2034 with a CAGR of 12.90%.

Reality Capture and Machine Learning

Reality capture through drones and sensors is versatile, as these tools can be used for site surveys, progress monitoring and safety inspections. Combined with machine learning, progress reports become accurate enough to improve worksite safety for workers.

The collected data can also be used to improve equipment quality and lifespan. Use it as a basis for predictive and preventive maintenance, helping companies experience 52.7% less unplanned downtime than those using reactive maintenance.

Centralized Project Management Software

Centralized project management software can streamline communication, documentation and scheduling all in one platform. A report found that 77% of optimized users saw increased profit margins.

The software also offers productivity gains. By unifying project tasks and enhancing real-time visibility into project progress, construction businesses can reduce their administrative errors and minimize field delays.

Overvalued Tech With Uncertain ROI

As important as technology is, certain buzzwords have innovative potential but are risky or have low ROI. Firms should practice more careful consideration to avoid poor technological investments and implementations.

Metaverse

The metaverse has become more possible through a combination of virtual reality, augmented reality and artificial intelligence. It has the potential to improve virtual visualization and 3D modeling, thereby impacting energy efficiency and reducing construction waste.

However, despite its power, technological limitations and data privacy concerns still hinder its widespread adoption in the construction industry. Investing in it now without proper development might involve little to no return.

Blockchain for Supply-Chain Management

Tracking materials and other resources from a factory to a jobsite can involve numerous documents. Integrating blockchain solutions can boost operational efficiency by 25% while reducing fraud by 50%, which improves transparency between workers and stakeholders.

However, it’s hard to ignore the high implementation costs associated with blockchain. It can also be complex to understand, which isn’t ideal for construction start-ups that may prefer simpler options, such as centralized project management software.

Generative Design

Another application of AI is generative design, which entails creating plans with minimal human input. It’s intended to simplify the planning process, but there are concerns about the unethical use of this technology, given GenAI’s challenges with domain knowledge and model accuracy.

Generative design is prone to hallucination and mistakes. Removing the input of experienced architects and engineers early on in the process can also lead to further delays and expenses in the long run.

How to Choose the Right Technology for the Firm

Differentiating between technological investments that deliver measurable results and those that are simply buzzwords can be challenging. It’s important to take the time to analyze these prospects. Here are tips to help construction industry professionals choose the right ones.

1. Identify Problems Instead of Products

Instead of chasing technological solutions based on what’s popular, focus on what problems the construction business is actually facing. For instance, to improve equipment lifespan, predictive maintenance analytics would be most effective.

Start by defining a problem and then work from there. If there are no clear areas for improvement, take the initiative to identify what would positively impact the company’s profits.

2. Consider the Investment Risks

As high as the ROI may be for certain technologies, it’s still important to understand any risks associated with their implementation. Small- to medium-sized companies, especially, should be vigilant about where they invest their money.

For instance, BIM is ideal for improving planning. However, implementation costs can be relatively high, with some services charging monthly or annual fees, depending on the scale and complexity of the project.

3. Implement a Pilot Project First

Before widespread technology adoption, it’s safe to implement a pilot project first. This will involve a limited number of users to evaluate functionality and gauge the budget and resources required to use the tool effectively. It’s best to have an IT specialist who can help lead its integration.

A pilot project should have a specific timeline and a list of goals that would warrant its implementation. Profitability is a key performance indicator, but it’s also important to assess other elements, such as reduced delays and errors compared to traditional methods.

4. Get Employees Involved Through Training

Incorporating new technologies can become much smoother when employees are involved in the process. Managers should provide adequate training sessions to familiarize construction teams with using these tools, ensuring greater success and better results.

Training can also translate to a more positive evaluation of the pilot project and encourage buy-in from business leaders. Seek their feedback to explore any adjustments in the implementation process when it goes companywide.

Be Intentional With Technology Adoption

Technological adoption should enhance profitability and productivity in the construction industry. Evaluate industry solutions before integrating them into the project process to ensure that upcoming investments have a real impact.

SEE ALSO: EXECUTIVE INSIGHTS 2026: LEADERS IN CONSTRUCTION TECHNOLOGY I

The post Which Construction Technology Investments Actually Move the Needle on Profitability? first appeared on Construction Executive.

One common thread links both problems: Documentation gaps turn minor issues into major disputes.

When issues pull teams away from higher-value work, visual site documentation, especially 360° imagery, is shifting from a nice-to-have to a strategic safeguard. Captured consistently and linked to location and time, 360° documentation strengthens risk mitigation, supports compliance, speeds dispute resolution and helps teams deliver higher-quality outcomes across the full building lifecycle.

The Documentation Gap: Why Traditional Methods Fail

Most site teams already take photos. The problem instead is that conventional documentation often fails under pressure because it is hard to retrieve when needed most.

The pattern repeats across projects:

• Fragmented storage across photos, emails, paper logs and shared drives
• Limited context in standard photos that show detail(s) but not the surrounding conditions
• Inconsistent formats across stakeholders, including subcontractors and third parties
• Slow retrieval during inspections and audits
• Weak defensibility when key phases were not documented clearly

Records can exist and still be unusable. When an owner or insurer asks for proof of an inspection step, or when subcontractor disputes come down to “Who did what when?” teams can lose days searching for information or relying on memory and partial notes. When documentation processes add a layer of risk, it is the way visual information is captured that needs to be reworked.

What 360° Visual Documentation Changes

A 360° capture builds a continuous record of the site. Instead of a single photo that shows details in isolation, 360° imagery creates a time-stamped record of what was built, where it was built and what else was happening at that point.  Beyond capturing the site, documentation must be standardized across teams ensuring formats stay consistent and site data is stored in one place. With full context and a defined structure, teams can build compliance reports quickly and retrieve supporting evidence without a time-consuming search.

Stronger Risk Mitigation and Fewer Disputes

Claims often hinge on proof, sequencing or installation quality. Gaps in proof create ambiguity, which leads to disputes in predictable scenarios:

• Subcontractor responsibility disputes (what was complete when the next trade started)
• Delay claims tied to access constraints or work-area readiness
• Defect allegations where workmanship is questioned after walls close
• Warranty discussions that depend on installation conditions at handover

Consistent 360° visual documentation reduces ambiguity by showing site conditions and progress status in a single view. The discipline matters as much as the technology. When contractors capture sites consistently, disputes shift from memory-based arguments to fact-based conversations about documented conditions.

Better Compliance and Inspection Readiness

Regulators want visual proof that safety steps were completed. Insurers want transparent records to evaluate risk management and, in some cases, to shape coverage terms. Paper-based logs and disconnected systems slow teams down during audits. Digital documentation helps by centralizing workflows, which reduces errors and ensures documentation is continuous. A structured digital record can be pulled into a report in seconds. 360° capture strengthens compliance records by showing full context: not just what was installed, but what surrounded it and what stage the work was in.

Higher Quality and Less Rework

Rework is expensive because it pulls labor off planned work and creates downstream schedule impacts. A consistent 360° record helps teams track progress at each stage and compare conditions over time before they are concealed behind walls or ceilings. Later, during troubleshooting, teams can review what was installed at a specific phase without opening walls. Side-by-side comparisons between two dates show exactly when something changed, which speeds issue resolution.

How 360° Capture Fits Into Standard Workflows

To protect margins and reduce exposure, successful teams treat 360° capture as part of routine site workflows, not a separate task. Field teams walk a floor or zone with a helmet-mounted camera on a predictable schedule, then upload the imagery to a central project record where it is pinned to plans and timestamped.

When capture is consistent, it becomes useful across quality assurance, safety, progress tracking, owner reporting and closeout. Features like PlanRadar’s SiteView, for example, pair 360° walks with AI algorithms to automatically map imagery to 2D floor plans, so teams can access site areas by location rather than scrolling through folders.

Structured Data: The Foundation for AI-Assisted Workflows

As teams capture more site data, structure becomes critical. When documentation is stored consistently, tagged the same way, pinned to plans, centralized in one system, AI can retrieve information in seconds instead of hours.

This enables AI-supported capabilities like:

• Search across captured project data to find relevant records faster
• Automated project overviews generated from current field documentation
• Faster retrieval of critical information during audits, inspections or claims
• Earlier visibility into risks and patterns, such as repeat issues by location or trade

The payoff depends on fundamentals. Structured documentation today creates the foundation for AI-assisted insights tomorrow.

Documentation as a Competitive Advantage

In short, 360° documentation is risk management. It helps contractors prove what happened on a project, which supports compliance, strengthens quality control and reduces uncertainty when stakeholders disagree. When project data is structured, centralized and time-stamped, AI can surface insights in seconds, turning documentation into actionable clarity.

As projects grow more complex and regulatory expectations rise, the contractors who thrive will not be the ones with the most photos. They will be the ones who can prove what happened, when it happened and what else was happening at the same time, in seconds, not days. That’s documentation as a competitive advantage. 

SEE ALSO: THE REALITY OF IMPLEMENTING VR/AR ON THE JOBSITE

The post Full Project Transparency: Why 360° Documentation Is Becoming Essential on Modern Construction Sites first appeared on Construction Executive.

“The research indicates the construction industry is nearing a tipping point for AI adoption,” says Steve Jones, senior director of industry insights at Dodge Construction Network, who sat down with Construction Executive to delve further into the survey questions and answers and what the industry’s current position on them means for AI’s future role in construction.

Other results worth noting include:

• 85% of contractors expect they will spend less time on repetitive, mundane tasks
• Over 70% believe they can make better decisions because AI offers insights they might not arrive at on their own
• 75% look ahead to AI helping them learn from past projects by mining historical data
• 40% are currently allocating a dedicated budget to AI
• 38% are creating implementation teams
• 19% report adapting legacy workflows for an AI environment
• 51% are actively evaluating several potential AI-related changes across their teams
• 81% recognize the benefit of automated constructability analysis to identify potential field issues during design
• 80% express interest in intelligent permit submission with automatic compliance checking
• 79% note strong potential for autonomous project optimization that adjusts schedules and resources in real time
• 76% identify opportunities in dynamic pricing optimization based on market conditions and risk factors
• 92% acknowledge the value of automated contract creation and management
• 79% value intelligent bid-no-bid decision support

The overall findings seem overwhelmingly optimistic. Was that surprising?

No, because there’s already so much in the general consumer environment about AI. It’s very different than when BIM came out—because that wasn’t widely talked about; you had to be in the industry to even have heard of it and it was easily dismissed as just another form of 3D. But now AI is so wide and there probably isn’t anybody who answered our survey who isn’t already also using ChatGPT or Claude or one of these LLMs. They know how it functions, what it does, and they’ve heard so much about it.

I expected the job loss question to score pretty highly in terms of concern—I was pleased to see that that was pretty low, around 20%. I think we may have gotten over that concern.

For the last two years I’ve been pushing to call it augmented intelligence instead of artificial intelligence. AI is here to help us all be better and faster. It isn’t here to replace anybody.

The survey shows 85% of contractors expect they will spend less time on repetitive, mundane tasks. It’s surprising that that’s not 100%. It that because contractors don’t expect AI to be able to automate everything?

There are certain repetitive tasks that don’t lend themselves to AI. It will be interesting to come back to a study like this two or three years from now asking similar questions and compare answers. The answer may be 99% at that point, but at the end of the day, AI’s not going to dig a ditch for you. But there is a robot that’s going to dig that ditch. And the robot will be powered by AI.

Would you say AI is creating opportunities for more jobs rather than replacing workers?

I don’t know that it’s creating the opportunity for more jobs, but what it’s going to be able to allow people to do is contend with the resource strain and drain from the workforce shortage that isn’t going away. The combination of AI automating mundane tasks and robotics being able to actually do labor will help people become much better decision makers.

Only 40% of those surveyed are allocating a budget for AI. Is it that people can’t yet afford these full tech stacks? Or is there just not enough buy-in to AI in general?

There still seems to be a general wait-and-see attitude. People like to know they’re not alone in whatever it is they’re doing. We can say, ‘Here is what a hundred other folks who look a lot like you are doing with this and what’s working and what isn’t working.’ So, they can have the confidence to move forward.

With AI, once people are in the game, they like to play the game and they don’t know why they didn’t start playing earlier. So, how fast do you see the number of players increasing by the end of the decade?

I think it’s longer than that. Because even as big as AI already is, construction is a people business at the end of the day. Human beings have to make the decision to get in the pool and how far down towards the deep end to swim. It’s such a fragmented and growing business right now, nobody has very much time to put energy into something that would seem extracurricular.

If you look at this industry 15 years from now, it will look dramatically different than it does today. But I don’t think the next four or five years are going to show that much. We will begin to see greater preparation, much more engagement and awareness. And I think we’ll see a similar pattern of those who have gotten into the game and are using AI saying that it’s great. The vendors need the feedback coming from the users. The more people who’re using AI, the more feedback they can give and then the better the vendors can make those tools function. The function of AI already far outpaces what construction’s ready for now.

SEE ALSO: MORE CONSTRUCTION COMPANIES ARE BUILDING A TECHNOLOGY-FOCUSED C-SUITE

The post New Survey Reveals Overwhelmingly Optimistic Results on the Use of AI in Construction first appeared on Construction Executive.

Construction as a Technology Leader

One of the defining moments of CES 2026 came during Caterpillar’s keynote address. CEO Joe Creed addressed a packed room with a question many may have been thinking: “Why is a construction equipment company delivering a keynote at CES?”

The answer became evident quickly. Modern construction equipment is no longer just mechanical—it is digital, autonomous, connected and powered by sophisticated technology stacks. Caterpillar announced five autonomous construction vehicles and demonstrated Level 4 autonomy capabilities. The shift underway is significant: Operators are transitioning from inside the cab to remote environments where fleets can be managed simultaneously. Perhaps the most notable unveiling was the CAT AI Assistant, scheduled to go live in Q1 2026. During a live demonstration, a simple voice command adjusted an electrical line warning height to 13 feet. The assistant integrates speech, text and image recognition—representing a move toward multimodal AI systems that assist real-time field operations. Construction is no longer simply adopting technology—it is helping define how technology is applied in the physical world.

A Connected Equipment Ecosystem

Across the LVCC West Hall, the evolution of heavy equipment was unmistakable.

Oshkosh and JLG showcased paired scissor lifts engineered specifically for lifting structural steel—an example of equipment designed around task optimization rather than generalized capability. John Deere continued expanding its autonomous ecosystem, reinforcing the trend toward intelligent fleet coordination.

Battery innovation companies, including Lyten, demonstrated advances in energy density and battery chemistry, highlighting that electrification is moving beyond experimentation and toward jobsitewide energy strategies.

Electrification discussions at CES 2026 extended beyond machines themselves. Charging infrastructure, energy management systems and power optimization software were part of the broader narrative. As cities push for lower emissions and reduced noise pollution, electric equipment is becoming a practical solution for urban and indoor projects.

It is no longer just about whether electric machines can perform—it is about how entire jobsites can be powered efficiently and sustainably.

Innovation from Startups: Solving Field-Level Problems

The Venetian’s Eureka Park, home to emerging startups, provided a view into construction’s next wave of innovation.

Autodesk demonstrated advancements in component modeling, reinforcing the growing integration between design intelligence and field execution. As digital models become more detailed and connected to real-world data, the gap between virtual planning and physical construction continues to shrink.

Cosito introduced AI-powered voice and sensor technology capable of automatically generating daily reports and field documentation. For an industry burdened by administrative paperwork, automation in this space could unlock significant productivity gains.

MIMO Detect presented underground pipe detection technology using ground-penetrating radar. While still in prototype phase and currently stronger in horizontal positioning than depth accuracy, the technology reflects ongoing efforts to reduce subsurface risk and prevent costly utility strikes. 

What stood out across the startup ecosystem was focus. Solutions were not speculative—they were targeted at real-world construction challenges: documentation, detection, visualization and efficiency.

Robotics and Spatial Computing

Robotics once again drew attention throughout the North Hall, with humanoid platforms, quadrupeds and service robots on display. However, the emphasis has shifted from novelty to application.

Exoskeleton technologies continue improving in wearability and ergonomic support, aiming to reduce strain injuries and extend workforce longevity. AI hardware companies such as DeepX demonstrated embedded processing systems powering autonomous vision and robotics applications. One particularly compelling development was spatial computing integrated through hard hat-mounted camera systems. By capturing and processing real-time visual data from a worker’s perspective, these systems aim to enhance hazard detection, progress tracking, and documentation. Robotics at CES 2026 felt less like spectacle and more like support—tools designed to augment skilled workers rather than replace them.

Workforce and AI Literacy

Technology alone does not build infrastructure—people do. Several CES sessions focused on preparing the workforce for rapidly evolving tools.

In the session “Next Gen Skills: Preparing Students for Tomorrow’s Tech,” leaders from Amazon, Oshkosh, CTA, and Tech Access emphasized AI literacy as a foundational skill. Amazon has committed $2.5 million to certify students in AI education and pledged to prepare four million students to use AI by 2028. Apprenticeship models are expanding to support data center construction and advanced infrastructure projects.

Key themes included:

• Prompt engineering as an emerging skill
• Understanding how to work alongside AI agents
• Collaboration between industry and education
• Ensuring technology remains accessible

Construction faces ongoing labor shortages and safety challenges. With less than 5% of the workforce employed in construction but accounting for nearly 20% of safety incidents, AI-powered safety systems and automation could play a transformative role.

New roles are already emerging: fleet autonomy managers, digital twin specialists, AI operations coordinators and construction data analysts. Preparing for jobs that do not yet fully exist is becoming part of the industry’s responsibility.

Connectivity: The Infrastructure Behind Innovation

Discussions involving FCC and NTIA leadership highlighted another critical factor: connectivity. Universal broadband access, spectrum policy, 6G development and WiFi 7 readiness are not abstract regulatory topics — they are foundational to connected construction ecosystems. Autonomous fleets, remote equipment management, real-time drone processing and AI-driven safety systems all depend on reliable, high-speed networks. As infrastructure becomes smarter, connectivity becomes as important as concrete and steel.

Lingering Thoughts Towards a Shift in Equipment Design

In conversations with industry leaders, an intriguing idea surfaced: As autonomy advances, equipment design itself may fundamentally change. If machines no longer require operators in cabs, what happens to traditional controls? Do we eliminate joysticks, operator compartments, and certain mechanical components altogether?

Autonomy does not just change how machines operate—it may redefine how they are built.

Looking Ahead

CES 2026 demonstrated that construction technology is no longer niche. It is integrated across AI, robotics, electrification, manufacturing and policy.

The industry is entering a phase where digital intelligence and physical infrastructure are inseparable. One key takeaway resonated: Technology should be deployed to solve problems, not simply to showcase innovation. That principle applies directly to construction. Adoption must be strategic, measurable and outcome-driven.

Autonomous fleets, AI assistants, spatial computing, electrified equipment and workforce AI literacy initiatives are not distant visions—they are active deployments.

Construction is not standing on the sidelines of innovation. It is helping build it.

SEE ALSO: HOW MOBILE TOOLS ARE CAPTURING SAFETY DATA ON JOBSITES

The post Building the Future: Construction at the Center of Technological Innovation at CES 2026 first appeared on Construction Executive.

Reporting now happens in the moment, which fundamentally changes how teams identify risk and prevent incidents. A contractor can now log a hazard, attach a photo or verify required training actively within the field. That immediacy also changes how frontline workers engage with safety. When reporting is quick and easy, more people actually do it, and with engaged workers and the right software tools, companies have a much clearer picture of what’s really happening on the jobsite.

Beyond accessibility on jobsites, mobile tools provide immediate visibility for construction leaders. The faster teams can move from spotting a risk to addressing it, the less likely it is to turn into an incident.

For mid-sized construction contractors especially, what are the most common operational blind spots you see impacting safety and project performance?

Mid-sized contractors have major operational complexity, but they don’t always have the infrastructure to match it. They’re running multiple projects while managing layers of subcontractors and dealing with tight timelines, yet their safety and risk processes haven’t kept pace with that complexity.

One of the biggest blind spots is subcontractor oversight. On any given jobsite, different crews are constantly rotating in and out as projects move forward. If compliance requirements like permits and required training aren’t centralized and easy to verify, exposures can build up quickly. It’s also imperative that subcontractors understand the site-specific procedures that govern the work itself, such as isolation points and emergency protocols. If that knowledge isn’t verified before work begins, it creates an operational gap that can lead to serious incidents. Addressing this blind spot doesn’t require another spreadsheet. Instead, safety leaders need a reliable and real-time view of who’s on site and whether they’ve met all site-specific safety requirements.

Another gap we see is an overreliance on lagging indicators. Most companies can tell you how many recordables they had last year, but what’s often missing is consistent tracking of near-misses or unsafe conditions across projects. Without leading data, everything becomes reactive. When field teams can report smaller issues quickly and easily, safety leaders will start to see patterns earlier. That visibility allows leadership to step in sooner, before a recurring hazard or a near-miss turns into a serious incident that disrupts an entire project.

In the construction industry, what separates companies that truly embed safety into their day-to-day operations from those that treat it as a standalone department?

The companies that truly embed safety have it integrated into how work gets done every day, not as a separate function. If safety data only lives with the safety manager, it automatically becomes reactive and only compliance-driven. When visibility extends beyond the safety team to include project managers, operations leaders and executives, safety becomes part of everyday decision-making.

Frontline engagement is the biggest unlock. Safety programs work when tools fit how people actually work, keeping them simple, mobile and usable. It’s important to recognize that the goal isn’t more reporting for employees, it’s prevention. Modern safety programs are about reducing injuries, downtime and disruptions, not adding administrative burden.

The other difference is that embedded safety cultures focus on prevention. They look at trends, identify where risk is building, and measure participation and engagement, not just injuries. When safety becomes part of how projects are run, it tends to strengthen the entire operation. Teams experience fewer disruptions and delays, lower insurance costs and workers become more engaged in the safety process, which can ultimately support high job satisfaction and result in lower turnover.

How can construction companies balance efficiency and safety on the jobsite without sacrificing one for the other?

Crews are constantly on the go on active jobsites, so safety processes need to reflect that. When training and reporting are built into daily workflows and accessible from a phone or tablet, it saves time and makes it easier for workers to participate.

Accessibility isn’t the only efficiency advantage. Shorter, more consistent sessions throughout the year tend to stick better than one long session every few months. When workers can pull up safety videos right from their phone, whether it’s during a scheduled time or between tasks, it gives them the critical information they need to know without disrupting their workflow or having to complete training outside of their work time. When software can adapt to how a company already operates, teams don’t feel like they have to overhaul everything just to use new tools.

How is data changing the way construction leaders approach risk management and project-level decision-making?

Historically, leaders would review safety performance monthly or quarterly. They would look at what went wrong and make adjustments from there. The issue with this approach is that by the time those reports are reviewed, the incident has already happened. These reactive approaches don’t work in the long term. Leaders need real-time visibility via easy-to-use dashboards across all active projects to identify where risk is building and address it before it escalates. The real shift happens when historical data is structured and continuously tracked, helping make patterns visible. For example, specific training gaps can show up repeatedly in certain job types, or equipment failures that seem random at first can end up recurring. That level of pattern recognition changes how leaders allocate resources, schedule work and plan for the future.

Technology does not replace experience or judgment. Instead, it surfaces insights faster and helps teams prioritize where to focus. For construction companies operating on tight margins and tight timelines, that level of foresight can have a significant operational and financial impact

SEE ALSO: OPERATIONALIZING SAFETY: WHY IT’S TIME TO TREAT SAFETY TECH LIKE YOUR PROJECT SCHEDULE

The post How Mobile Tools Are Capturing Safety Data on Jobsites first appeared on Construction Executive.

What Counts as a Construction Exoskeleton?

Jobsites typically see three types of exoskeletons—back or trunk support for carrying and sustained forward flexion; shoulder and arm support for overhead drilling, fastening and panel installation; and lower and limb support for prolonged stopping or sit-stand assistance.

Passive systems use springs or elastomers, while powered units add motors and batteries. The goal isn’t to create super workers but to keep crews inside safer ergonomic envelopes, so they finish the week with energy left.

NIOSH’s Center for Occupational Robotics Research highlights exoskeletons as a promising control for construction-related musculoskeletal risks, while stressing the need for task-specific evaluation and safe use. The global exoskeletal market was valued at $498.33 million in 2024 and is forecast to reach $1.25 billion by 2030—expanding at a 16.27% compound annual growth rate. The health care, military and industrial sectors are the top users of this technology.

Where Are Exoskeletons Being Used on Jobsites?

After pilot schemes on large infrastructure jobs, contractors identified the trades that gain the most from mechanical assistance. In each case, repetitive high-load or awkward postures are the common thread.

Devices are only viable when the same motion repeats for minutes rather than seconds—setup time still matters. Typical uses include:

• Steel fixers tying rebar at floor level for hours
• Formwork carpenters assembling shutters at shoulder height
• Scaffolding crew carrying ledgers, transoms and standards
• Roofers and cladders lifting insulation boards up pitched surfaces
• Pipefitters and plumbers installing heavy flanged pipework in plant rooms

In 2024, a construction materials supplier partnered with Stanley to develop a suit that can help support workers carrying heavy loads. After a two-week trial, the designers found that the Hapo Back exoskeleton reduced back strain by 30% and had the potential to lower load on the back by as much as five tons per day. Users of various ages—ranging from 20 to 60—reported feeling immediate relief while wearing the technology.

Why Specialist Contractors Matter

Rolling out wearable robotics involves more than issuing hard hats—battery charging and inspection processes affect program risk. Specialists must be able to balance solving complex issues that arise in their projects while maintaining the correct and safest operations of the exoskeleton. This should be in addition to mandatory training for safety and site management across all construction activities.

Early adopters report that pairing ergonomics with safety representatives during task analysis helps match the right suit to the job—maximizing benefit and minimizing encumbrance.

U.S. contractors are investing in exoskeletons because regulatory guidance and industry data point in the same direction. OSHA’s ergonomics materials name the very exposures common to nonresidential work—lifting, overhead reaching, pushing and pulling, awkward posing and repetition—as primary musculoskeletal disorder drivers.

BLS injury and illness data also show that construction remains a higher-rate sector for nonfatal injuries. On the business side, large insurer analyses attribute tens of billions of dollars annually to serious injuries, with overexertion and bodily reaction among the top cost drivers. These signals provide executives with a clear reason to pilot exoskeletons as part of a layered ergonomics strategy.

How Exoskeletons Reduce Strain and Mental Load

Construction is a high-pressure job where emotional resilience gets praise even when harmful. Those who work in this sector are vulnerable to mental health issues due to the demanding environment and often transient way of life—the culture of stoicism also keeps them from seeking help. A roofing company’s CEO even warns that a “no-complaint mentality” encourages crews to work past exhaustion, fueling dissatisfaction and departures.

Industrywide data highlight the stakes. Research shows that untreated mental illness among workers cost the American economy $477.5 billion in 2024. By eliminating the physical drivers of exhaustion, exoskeletons provide operatives with the capacity and permission to pace themselves. Musculoskeletal disorders drain energy, interrupt sleep and erode focus—all prime conditions for mistakes onsite. Exoskeletons offer significant potential to improve worker safety, reduce injury and enhance productivity.

Designing a Safe and Worker-Centered Exoskeleton Program

Think of exoskeletons as an engineered control that must fit your people and your work. Start with sizing and donning. A poor fit raises pressure points and can alter movement patterns in ways that increase risk. A trade-specific sizing matrix, a quick fit check and a set of swap kits make it easy to find the right match.

Also address balance and mobility. Some shoulder-assist designs shift the center of mass, while hip constraints can affect gain on ladders or uneven decks. Test usage by running a short obstacle course familiarization session before the first field use. Heat, hygiene and comfort should be primary concerns.

Above all, keep usage voluntary and worker-centered. If the device feels like a productivity whip, it will sit unused. However, if it’s framed as a wellness option with permission to stop and swap, acceptance will rise and so will the benefits.

Key Takeaways for U.S. Contractors

Exoskeletons will not fix poor planning or bad material flow. However, as part of a layered ergonomics strategy, they can meaningfully reduce physical strain and give crews permission to self-pace without sacrificing throughput. Start with the riskiest tasks, measure what matters, consider worker choice and deliver training through platforms your field already uses. When done well, you move culture from “work through the pain” to sustainable performance.

SEE ALSO: THE MOST POWERFUL CONSTRUCTION TECHNOLOGY IN THE WORLD

The post Analyzing the Benefits of Exoskeleton Use on Construction Jobsites first appeared on Construction Executive.

“ABC’s fifth annual construction technology report turns the spotlight to the jobsite, where field technology is driving the next stage of progress,” said Matt Abeles, ABC vice president of construction technology and innovation. “The swift advancement of this particular technology represents a new era for our industry. These leading solutions and companies display a focus on empowering the people who build our infrastructure with field tech like drones, robotics, laser scanning and jobsite security. Field technology is redefining how contractors plan, monitor and execute their work while protecting their people and adding value to communities.”

“In this report, we see how field technology can close the gap between off-site strategies and jobsite activity,” said Patrick Irwin, chair of ABC’s Construction Technology and Innovation Committee and chief operating officer at Leonard S. Fiore Inc., Altoona, Pennsylvania. “The companies that invest in connected systems will be better positioned to deliver safer projects, stronger margins and long-term competitiveness. Our industry faces no shortage of challenges—from workforce shortages to economic uncertainty. Yet, our industry remains resilient, and a key component of this resiliency is technology and innovation, which continues to play a critical role in shaping the present and future of construction.”

The ABC Field Tech Report includes an executive summary of the field tools and innovations from ABC strategic partner Milwaukee Tool and insights from Tech Alliance members and Dodge Construction Network.

The report, published by the ABC National Construction Technology and Innovation Committee, was made possible by ABC’s 2025-2026 Tech Alliance members—Arcoro, Autodesk Inc., BuildOps, Datagrid, Document Crunch, Egnyte, Kojo, KPA, Sage, Sentriforce, Smartapp, SmartBuild, SubHQ, Stack and Trimble—and ABC strategic partner Milwaukee Tool.

ABC creates the conditions for construction companies to innovate, differentiate, and attract and educate top talent to win and deliver work safely, ethically and profitably for the betterment of the communities in which they work. ABC continues to invest in helping its members select high-quality construction technology through its Tech Alliance and Tech Marketplace. Visit abc.org/techreport to read the digital report and watch a video with highlights of the report.

ABC members received the print edition of the ABC Field Tech Report with the September/October issue of Construction Executive, the magazine for the business of construction.

SEE ALSO: EYES ON THE SKY: REGULATING DJI DRONES ON FEDERAL AND PRIVATE CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS

The post How Field Technology Is Transforming Construction Jobsites first appeared on Construction Executive.

CES 2025, held from Jan. 7 to 10 in Las Vegas, spotlighted advancements in artificial intelligence, robotics, automotive technology, health tech and sustainability. This year’s show brought together 140,000+ attendees representing over 150 countries. The 4500+ exhibitors, educational sessions and keynotes were spread throughout 12 venues, grouped into three campuses: Las Vegas Convention Center, Venetian and Aria.

TECHNOLOGY IMPACTING CONSTRUCTION

Understanding the sheer size and overall footprint of the event is a crucial factor for when it comes to planning where to go at CES. It’s easy to become overwhelmed and mindlessly enthralled with all the flashy technology. Fortunately for those mostly interested in technology impacting the construction industry, CES offered a ‘Construction Tech’ filter when searching for exhibitor booths.

Construction technology made its impact known as innovators unveiled groundbreaking solutions poised to transform the building industry. From autonomous machinery to end-to-end software solutions, the event highlighted how cutting-edge technologies are redefining construction processes, enhancing efficiency and addressing critical challenges like labor shortages and sustainability. Key themes included the integration of artificial intelligence, robotics for precision and safety, and digital twin technology for project planning and management. As construction increasingly embraces innovation, CES 2025 showcased the potential of smart tools and connected systems to build smarter, greener and more resilient infrastructure for the future. Below are just a few highlights of the vast amounts of technologies poised to impact the construction industry:

VEHICLE AUTOMATION, ELECTRIFICATION, DIGITAL JOBSITES AND REMOTE OPERATIONS

John DeereJohn Deere has continued to develop its autonomous technology through its second-gen kit that includes computer vision, AI and cameras to help navigate their environment. Much of this technology is interchangeable throughout its autonomous fleet, including the 460 P-Tier Autonomous Articulated Dump Truck.

KubotaOn full display was the KX38-4e electric compact excavator. The built-in lithium-ion battery technology allows for up to five hours of continuous operation. The onboard DC fast charger also means it can be quickly recharged.

KomatsuKomatsu highlighted their efforts in keeping construction sites connected throughout every phase of the project. Their Smart Construction suite provides a one stop solution for design documents, 3D machine guidance, fleet management, base/rover controls, drone data processing and more.

CATCaterpillar had their CAT Command set up and ready for anyone to demo. The remote-controlled technology allowed full control of an excavator that was set up on a remote jobsite in Tinaja Hills, Arizona.

JLGJLG brought along their fully electric Galileo multi-use mobile elevating work platform along with an autonomous mobile robot. A demo simulated the work platform running low on battery and prompting the AMR to drive to the equipment and plug in to charge.

ROBOTICS AND EXOSKELETONS

There was absolutely no shortage of robotics on full display at CES. Up to this point, the majority of the construction workforce may not have had the opportunity to stand alongside a robot assistant on a construction site. Several of the companies at CES showcased a reminder that robot assistants come in all shapes and sizes.

Deep RoboticsDeep Robotics showcased a full roster of diverse robots. Anywhere from humanoid/bipedal robots to the X20 quadruped robot made for carrying scanning/surveying-based payload solutions.

ULS RoboticsExoskeletons and human augmentation devices had a large presence at CES. ULS Robotics unveiled their AI lumbar exoskeleton, which is capable of lifting up to 66 pounds.

UnitreeUnitree showcased some of its most advanced robotics based around quadrupedal, wheel-leg and humanoid technologies. Similar to other ground-based robotics, these robots are capable of carrying reality-capture based payloads like lidar scanners and 360 cameras.

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AND SMART VISION

Artificial intelligence at CES was hard to hide from. Most products had mention of AI in their booths—“Powered by AI”, “Next Gen AI”, or “AI [insert product name here]”. The excitement and hype surrounding AI only seems to be gaining momentum, allowing companies to continue to push innovative use cases.

KomatsuSeveral autonomous vehicle and technology companies were highlighting technology somewhat similar to what Komatsu had on display—smart-vision based AI to track proximity to machines and ensure safety. Another example currently on the street in today’s market is from the self-driving company Waymo.

TimekettleW4 Pro Earbuds powered by Babel that interpret and translate in real time whether online or in person. To date, the device can translate 40 languages and interpret 93 accents.

DeepXA full display of AI-powered hardware from DeepX’s various partners. One example is from Hyundai, where they showed off hardware powering face authentication vision and autonomous robot vision.

CES 2025 showcased groundbreaking innovations that promise to revolutionize the construction industry. From advanced robotics and AI-driven project management tools to sustainable materials and energy-efficient building systems, the event highlighted how technology can make construction smarter, safer and more efficient.

For professionals in the field, these advancements mean faster project delivery, reduced costs and a stronger focus on sustainability. The integration of smart sensors, IoT devices and autonomous machinery can help improve jobsite safety while optimizing resource use. As the construction sector adopts these innovations, it will be better equipped to meet the demands of modern infrastructure, sustainability goals and urbanization challenges.

Ultimately, CES 2025 reaffirms that the future of construction lies at the intersection of technology and innovation, inspiring a new era of possibilities for builders and designers worldwide.

OTHER RESOURCES

About CES

By the Numbers

Maps and Locations

SEE ALSO: WITH GREAT TECH COMES GREAT RESPONSIBILITY: ABC’S 2024 JOINT TECH SUMMIT

The post The Most Powerful Construction Technology in the World first appeared on Construction Executive.

How did you develop the first iterations of Twiceme products?

Military professionals originally developed Twiceme technology after discovering its need in the field. They created it after repeated experiences of feeling helpless on missions when accidents occurred to their colleagues. In these instances, they wanted to help but couldn’t. They developed the technology with the idea of turning bystanders into helpers.

Smart safety technology integrates into safety equipment that protects people before and after incidents occur. If someone becomes injured, those nearby can interact with next-generation, near-field communication chips integrated into PPE to quickly alert rescuers, relaying the exact location and providing critical information about the person. That information may include medical information, such as medicinal allergies or blood type, to further assist the helpers should the user become incapacitated. This accelerates response and rescue times, positively impacting an injured person’s clinical outcomes.

What was the development and testing process like?

During the initial development and testing, we worked solely with search and rescue professionals who gave us feedback on the design. We interacted with over 400 rescue organizations whose feedback was invaluable to the product and its evolution. Many of today’s features directly resulted from recommendations we received during the early testing. We maintain contact with our network of rescuers and have a panel of beta testers who provide us with product feedback on new features. In addition to search and rescue, we now have an extensive network of construction and health and safety personnel who test and influence our product designs.

What was the initial feedback from users and/or customers?

In the industrial segment, it has been incredible, and for many first-time users, it is an instant “aha” moment. While the construction industry is well aware of the importance of preparation and taking preventative steps to avoid accidents, like through inspections and keeping track of the equipment, we opened their minds and transformed their approach to workplace safety. Having medical and/or other personal information available to first responders showed it could improve the rate in which responders can administer aid. This was a breakthrough for us, and we knew it had the potential to impact safety significantly.

How did your products evolve? How did the range of products become so expansive?

From our roots in the military, our first expansion was into the skiing industry. The snow sports industry, in general, is quick to adopt new trends and test new technology. Our first partner brand in sports was POC of Sweden. They are incredibly innovative and forward-thinking. From snow sports, we moved into action sports like mountain biking and motorized sports. When all sports brands initially slowed R&D spending during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, we moved quickly into the industrial segment to industries supporting construction because they continued to operate. Today, we have incorporated the technology into more specialized equipment, including safety harnesses for working at heights and even clothing.

How has the evolution of contech and the fast development of AI influenced your products?

Construction technology is being developed and adopted at an increasing speed. Today’s construction professionals want to solve safety problems, and technology enables them to do just that. In many ways, we see ourselves as a core part of the construction industry’s digital transformation.

Beyond its life-saving qualities, the product can help construction safety managers improve their overall approach to safety, including their approach to PPE inspections, PPE tracking and worker certification storage. The fact that the product is so simple and easy to use has helped us overcome some technological barriers that have otherwise slowed technology adoption, such as complicated integration processes or high costs.

Are your products only applicable for construction industry sectors?

The tech is available today in a range of PPE for outdoor and industrial uses. We have partner products for skiers, snowboarders, climbers, bikers, motorbike products and equestrian riders; in the industrial space, firefighters, foresters, miners, arborists and construction workers across the globe. Today, we are seeing interest from a growing number of brands in new and exciting segments who contact us to discuss integrating the technology into other products.

How have your products influenced the development of other safety products? How have they influenced the safety culture of other construction companies and the industry as a whole?

Even though we’re seeing rapid and widespread adoption, we’re is still relatively new to the construction industry. We are hopeful that we have influenced other technology in positive ways. Improving the safety culture in the companies that have adopted our tech is our highest priority. We recently launched a learning management platform called Twiceme University to aid construction workers and safety personnel in adopting and making the most out of the technology. It provides information on how a company can improve not only the culture of safety, but also efficiency and a company’s financial results. We have a product roadmap in place, and we will continue introducing new features to help make construction organizations more productive and improve their approach to safety.

SEE ALSO: THE REALITY OF IMPLEMENTING VR/AR ON THE JOBSITE

The post How to Create Effective and Cutting-Edge Construction Technology Products first appeared on Construction Executive.