Automation in the roading industry is set to have a major impact on contractors within the next 15 years.
Autonomous Vehicles
Traditional lanes for highways have allowed for human error, so usually between 3.5 and 3.75 meters wide (according to the European Commission). However, with the introduction of autonomous vehicles expected to be at 15% of light vehicles sold by 2035, driving precision is anticipated to increase dramatically. Lanes could be reduced to as little as 2.5 meters – making four lane roads up to 4.0 meters narrower than they are today.
Reducing Injuries in the Workplace
Preventing back injuries is a major workplace safety challenge in the construction industry. Lets take a look at the following video of a traditional method of installing road safety barriers.
Traditionally teams of at least three workers are required – lifting, placing, carrying, holding and lowering are all involved in manual material handling (the principal cause of compensable work injuries). Employers must look at ways of preventing these injuries. By developing automation of these activities through clever engineering the job can be redesigned so lifting becomes less hazardous.
Groundwork are proven leaders in innovation and technology. We have developed a simple guardrail barrier install unit that attaches to the Challenger 800 Pile Driver and removes a layer of manual activity. Not only does this remove the hazard of lifting and placement, but it significantly reduces the staff required, which in these times of shortages is another huge advantage to the contractor.
Talk to us today about implementing this technology to your fleet, increase productivity, reduce injuries and getting a step ahead of the competition.
Email: enquiries@gwexperts.com
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