In the construction industry, worker safety has always been paramount, especially for high-risk tasks like welding. Prolonged exposure to intense light, high temperatures, and harmful gases presents significant health hazards for welders. In response, many firms are turning to technology and automation to mitigate these risks and enhance project efficiency.
A local engineering equipment company recently introduced a welding robot to its operations, primarily to connect foundation piles. The adoption of this robotic system has yielded multiple benefits, significantly improving both worker safety and construction speed. By allowing operators to control welding activities remotely, the firm has minimised human exposure to dangerous environments. This shift not only protects workers from the harmful by-products of traditional welding but also ensures more stable and consistent workmanship. The integration of programmed robotic operations has introduced a new level of precision and reliability into the construction process. Every welding task is carried out under controlled conditions, enhancing the quality of the final product while optimising overall project timelines. In an industry currently facing notable labour shortages, the ability for operators to simultaneously manage multiple robots has proved particularly advantageous. The firm’s experience suggests that leveraging robotic technology can help maintain high levels of productivity even with a reduced workforce.
Beyond welding, the company has diversified its automation portfolio by acquiring painting, transportation, and cutting robots. These investments have been supported through significant funding from the Construction Innovation and Technology Fund (CITF), with grants covering up to 80% of the associated costs. Altogether, the company secured more than HK$3.3 million in funding for these four robotic systems, reinforcing its commitment to advancing construction innovation.
Established in 2018, the CITF has played a pivotal role in promoting the adoption of new technologies within the construction sector. The fund, backed by HK$2.2 billion in government investment, seeks to drive improvements in productivity, construction quality, site safety, and environmental performance. With guidance from the Construction Industry Council, the CITF evaluates and approves funding applications, targeting a wide range of initiatives that encourage the industry’s technological evolution. As of March this year, the CITF had approved approximately HK$1.68 billion in funding across around 1,330 firms, with small and medium-sized enterprises making up about 60% of the beneficiaries. The fund’s support has enabled these companies to access advanced technologies that might otherwise have been out of reach, thereby broadening the impact of innovation across the sector.
Among the most popular categories funded are building information modelling (BIM) and advanced construction technologies, accounting for over 60% of approved applications. These tools are reshaping construction practices by enabling better planning, visualisation, and project management, while also enhancing site safety and operational efficiency.
In addition to general funding initiatives, the CITF has launched targeted programmes such as the Smart Site Safety System, designed to support the adoption of tailored safety technologies across different construction environments. This system offers a comprehensive package of options, helping contractors select appropriate devices and solutions for specific site conditions and project stages. Recognising that navigating the wide array of available technologies can be challenging, the Construction Industry Council has developed standardised lists of recommended safety devices. These lists include detailed information about product providers and pricing, allowing stakeholders to make informed decisions quickly and efficiently. This structured approach ensures that even smaller contractors, who may lack specialised knowledge or procurement resources, can participate in the industry’s technological advancement.
Through strategic funding, practical guidance, and a strong emphasis on innovation, Hong Kong’s construction industry is rapidly evolving. The increasing use of robotics and smart technologies is not only making construction sites safer but also laying the groundwork for a more efficient and sustainable future.
