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By Katlyn Eriksen

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SOUND OFF: How artificial intelligence can help Kamloops’ construction industry

Oct 14, 2024 | 2:15 PM

Business Intelligence for B.C. recently reported that AI-powered robots are helping boost B.C.’s construction industry. On Mitchell Island, for instance, new AI-powered robots were seen moving concrete blocks, demonstrating how this technology can step in when the sector suffers labour shortages. These robots can perform a host of tasks, including lifting and moving heavy objects and monitoring sites for safety issues. Kamloops itself is making significant strides in incorporating AI technology into construction projects. For instance, the Kruger Kamloops Pulp Mill is setting a standard for AI adoption in construction, so much so that it has received $5 million in funding to implement a groundbreaking AI-powered technology. However, AI is also of interest to the instruction industry as a whole, owing to its ability to analyze data, make predictions, and automate processes.

Optimizing Manufacturing Processes

The new system at the pulp mill will include a new pressure diffusion washer with an AI-powered control system. The system contains sensors that collect data on factors such as water pressure, temperature and flow rate. AI then analyzes the data, using it to adjust parameters in real time and to optimize pressure and water usage. AI can monitor the way a system works, spotting potential problems and indicating when maintenance is needed. It improves efficiency and enables the mill to reduce both its water and energy consumption. It also enhances safety, since the system can use available to determine when it should automatically shut. Finally, AI systems can be monitored and adjusted remotely, allowing for greater ease for staff.

Boosting Employment

AI is also set to boost employment figures since it is leading to the creation of new jobs in the sector. At the pulp mill, 340 existing jobs have been maintained and four more will be added. However, during the construction phase, a host of additional personnel will benefit. Indirect support will also go to approximately 1,000 workers in the biomass value chain.

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Creating Safer Workplaces

Statistics on construction and home services show that some 44 per cent of construction firms state that AI and robotics will positively impact construction costs by automating manual, error-prone tasks. AI will also make work safer for these employees since smart robots can take care of numerous tasks that are too difficult, repetitive or potentially unsafe. These include making autonomous decisions to identify obstacles and ensure worker safety. Safety begins even before construction work commences, since AI can be used to create digital twins of construction sites for precise planning. It can also recognize objects onsite and perform detailed scans of existing structures. Interestingly, workers are excited instead of daunted by AI. Although 40 per cent see AI as a potential taker of jobs, an overwhelming 97 per cent believe this technology will boost their career opportunities.

Cutting Down on Costs

AI can help Kamloops construction firms and related businesses reduce their costs in numerous ways. The roles AI can play are vast, starting at the budgeting stage. AI can be used to make estimations with an 87 per cent accuracy, thus reducing human error. This technology can additionally be used to evaluate past developments and predict new market trends. AI can also help in the project planning and management stages. For instance, in one case, AI-powered software was able to reduce a $50-million project’s costs by 15 per cent by making efficient crew sizing and sequencing recommendations. Many firms are using AI to automate numerous processes, including surveying, excavation and material handling. This reduces the need for manual work and helps speed up construction. Others are harnessing AI to improve energy efficiency. For instance, AI-based systems can operate heating, cooling and lighting systems according to real-time needs. This boosts efficiency and reduces expenses. Finally, financial managers are leveraging AI to improve financial control of projects. AI-powered software provides teams with real-time financial data obtained from numerous systems. With this data, financial managers can identify potential cost overruns.

The adoption of AI in Kamloops’ construction industry is a golden opportunity to tackle issues such as labor shortages, budgeting constraints and rising costs of labor and materials. AI is already valuable in many areas, from sustainable energy creation to increased productivity. Its ability to automate difficult tasks additionally creates new job opportunities. AI promises to help make the construction industry more lucrative, efficient and safe.

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Editor’s Note: This opinion piece reflects the views of its author, and does not necessarily represent the views of CFJC Today or Pattison Media.