HDB plans to integrate robots to boost productivity and safety at construction sites.
From 2025, robots will play a key role in enhancing the productivity and safety of Build-To-Order (BTO) construction sites in Singapore. Approximately half of new BTO projects will use robots to perform labour-intensive tasks such as painting and plastering walls.
This initiative is part of the Housing and Development Board’s (HDB) ongoing efforts to increase site productivity by 40% by 2030. As of 2021, 26.2% of this target had already been achieved. Senior Minister of State for National Development, Tan Kiat How, confirmed these plans during a forum at HDB Hub on October 23.
The use of robots follows positive results from trials at several BTO sites since 2023. For example, a robot that performs architectural finishing tasks, including painting, plastering, and sanding, was found to improve productivity by up to 30% during its trial in Yishun North.
The robots are equipped with sensors that help them navigate construction sites, ensuring precise application of finishing works while avoiding obstacles like tight corners. This technology is expected to free up workers to focus on higher-order tasks, while the robots complete repetitive tasks efficiently.
HDB also announced that it will support contractors by providing robots on term contracts at competitive prices. This will make it easier for contractors to adopt advanced technologies without excessive costs.
The robots’ performance has been positively received. For example, at a MacPherson BTO site, painting robots used by Hi-Tek Construction improved productivity by more than three times. With one worker able to manage multiple robots using a tablet, tasks are completed more quickly and with higher-quality finishes compared to human workers. The robots cost around $120,000 each, and one can paint a four-room flat in 90 minutes, compared to the 70 minutes it would take three workers.
This technological advancement is expected to play a significant role in shaping the future of Singapore’s construction industry.
