AI could propel the construction industry forward

Professor Alfred Ngowi, deputy vice-chancellor: research innovation and engagement, Professor Fidelis Emuze, built environment and Professor Nomvula Rakolote, CEO: Association of Construction Project Managers.

“AI can also help the industry overcome its major challenges which include cost and schedule overruns and safety concerns. By learning from the AI-powered applications that have been working successfully in other industries, the engineering and construction industry can shorten the learning curve, and by embracing machine learning algorithms, they can improve all aspects of the construction life cycle," Professor Alfred Ngowi, deputy vice chancellor: research innovation and engagement, told the 7th Construction Industry Conversations workshop, hosted by the Central University of Technology, Free State (CUT) in collaboration with the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB), Association of Construction Project Managers (ACPM).

At the workshop, a pocketbook on construction safety for South Africa by Fidelis Emuze, professor: built environment was launched. The book will serve as a handy reference guide about the common hazards and risks faced on construction sites.