How AI is transforming construction safety and efficiency

Florida International University’s Moss Department of Construction Management is at the forefront of a revolution in the industry. They’re equipping students with the tools to leverage AI for increased efficiency and safety on construction sites.

Imagine generating blueprints with just a few specifications or having a watchful eye constantly monitoring a site for safety hazards. These are just a few ways AI is transforming construction. Students like Kaelan Dodd are already putting this knowledge to work. ‘An AI tool I tried at my job based on what I learned at FIU lets us create blueprints in seconds,’ Dodd said, impressed by the technology’s potential.

But FIU’s course goes beyond simply using AI. Professor Lufan Wang understands the importance of students not just using the technology but understanding it. By teaching them to code, she gives them a ‘translator’ to communicate with AI and provides valuable feedback to improve its capabilities. An approach like this one prepares students to not only navigate the constantly evolving world of AI but also shape its future applications in construction.

The benefits of AI extend far beyond efficiency. Construction is a field where safety is paramount, and AI can be a valuable ally. Imagine having a tireless AI assistant analyse thousands of construction site photos to identify potential hazards or sending an AI-powered robot into a dangerous situation to gather information. These are a few ways AI can minimise risk and potentially save lives. While AI won’t replace human construction managers entirely, it can take on the most dangerous tasks, allowing human expertise to focus on what it does best – guiding and overseeing complex projects.