How can robots help with a worker shortage?
One of Hong Kong’s leading construction firms, Gammon Construction, is now using robot exoskeleton systems to compensate for the persistent shortage of workers. The company uses these robotics to boost productivity of the labor force and to interest more women in the construction industry.
At HK $200,000 a pop these amazing machines will start showing up in cities in the next few months. They can be used at any construction site with it’s wearable design, making it easy to transport and carry. The robotics can be used for a variety of different tasks from welding all the way to tiling.
The executive director of the company, Gilbert Tsang, said that they hope the technology will help interest women in the construction industry. The robotics essentially eliminate the perception that construction jobs require intense physical strength. The company is looking to employ 292 women workers after the technology is readily available. That’s a massive improvement compared to the 132 workers they had six years ago.
“We already have 18,000 workers but we still need 11 per cent more,” said chief executive of Gammon Construction, Thomas Ho On-sing.
Ho said that the government could help with the shortage problem by setting aside more sites for prefabrication production lines. This would provide a faster process compared to the current on-site model.
Ho also suggested that, at least for public projects, the Development Bureau should apply for the work permits instead of construction companies. “If it was the bureau’s responsibility, I believe it would cut the process by about three months,” added Ho.
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