Access control and how it is changing construction

Biometric authentication, AI integration, cloud-based access systems and automation are shaping the construction industry by improving safety, streamlining processes and aligning with the increasing push for sustainability. These systems, which include fingerprint scanners, facial recognition and retina scans, are particularly transforming access control on construction sites, but unlike traditional keys or swipe cards that can be misplaced or duplicated, they provide instead a personalised and foolproof method of identifying individuals – and it is changing the face of construction - writes John Ridgeway.

They are bringing enhanced security, ensuring that only authorised personnel can access restricted areas and are helping to reduce theft and trespass incidents. Biometric systems that can log workers' entry and exit times, are providing accurate records for payroll and compliance and because they ensure workers can only be granted access to specific areas based on their role, they are also delivering better safety protocols.

Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning in particular have become powerful tools in access control. These technologies provide real-time data analysis, helping construction sites identify potential threats and inefficiencies. Machine learning algorithms monitor entry patterns to flag suspicious activity and AI-powered cameras detect unauthorised personnel or unusual movements, alerting security teams instantly. These systems can also predict when equipment, such as gates or locks, might fail, preventing costly delays. Click link to read more:

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Real time construction news from across the world

Scroll down to see the Hubbub newsfeed, a powerful new marketing tool from Talk.Build. It is a FREE to use AI generated interface, the ultimate construction news search engine - that will bring to you, all the information you will ever need - real time construction news from thousands of construction, architectural and engineering publications from across the globe - updated every 10 minutes so you will never miss a thing - real time construction news - all in one place.

Start by clicking the general construction for the latest news. The AI function will then quickly learn what kind of construction news stories, features and blogs that you want to read about, so please use Hubbub as often as possible to help us improve this service still further - it will always be FREE. Use the drop box feature to choose the specialist construction sectors that are of most interest to your business and let Hubbub do all of the hard work.  Click the link to read more:

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Empowering women in construction to overcome microaggression

Despite massive progress in diversity and inclusion, a new study in Australia shows that it is still tough for women looking to make a career in construction. The findings reveal that many still experience persistent microaggressions and encounter significant hurdles in advancing their careers – situations that are so difficult - that some are even considering leaving the industry altogether, writes John Ridgeway.

The study, by the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC), launched in collaboration with the DEI consultancy TDC Global, highlights the daily challenges that women encounter in the field – and it does not make for good reading. Even worse, there is strong evidence to suggest that their findings highlight a global problem for the construction industry

One of the study's most troubling findings is that 88% of respondents reported experiencing microaggressions, with women in managerial or administrative roles encountering even higher rates. Beyond the emotional toll, these subtle but harmful behaviours can create a pervasive sense of exclusion, undermine confidence and over time, contribute to mental health issues. For many women, fear of retaliation and a lack of institutional support prevent them from reporting these incidents, claims the report, leaving them feeling isolated and undervalued.

NAWIC, founded in Australia in 1995, has become a powerful advocate for women in construction, offering support, resources, and networks that help women thrive in this field. NAWIC is part of a global network that includes the United States, New Zealand, and Canada, and serves as a forum for women to share ideas, expand their skills and create networks that foster personal and professional growth. NAWIC’s vision is to empower women in construction, build confidence and strengthen the industry as a whole through inclusivity and equity. Click link to see more:

#diversity

Exploring the global market for glass fibre reinforced concrete

The global glass fibre reinforced concrete (GFRC) market is booming, driven by rising demand from both commercial and residential sectors and bolstered by trends toward sustainable construction. GFRC, a composite material composed of fine sand, cement, water and alkali-resistant glass fibres, is highly valued for its lightweight, durable and sustainable characteristics and is a proven winner for the construction industry, writes John Ridgeway.

In 2023, the GFRC market was valued at approximately $3.51 billion, with projections estimating it will grow to $3.97 billion by 2024, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 13.2%. With estimates pointing to the market reaching $6.65 billion by 2028, GFRC is quickly becoming the must have material in the global construction industry.

The surge in demand for GFRC is supported by a range of factors, primarily urbanisation, the demand for more renovation projects and an increasing focus on sustainable building solutions. GFRC is particularly beneficial in green building initiatives because of its composition. The material is not only lightweight and durable, but it also requires fewer resources for transportation and handling. These characteristics make it a perfect fit for green buildings, which aim to reduce the environmental footprint of construction projects. Given that GFRC also offers improved energy efficiency, it has become increasingly popular in eco-friendly buildings and developments globally. Click link to see more:

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The Line and its potential impact on global construction

Saudi Arabia’s NEOM project is reshaping the conversation around urban planning, sustainability and global resource demands. This futuristic city aims to redefine the urban landscape, presenting an ambitious vision of a zero-emission, hyper-connected world. However, alongside its forward-thinking design comes an immense demand for construction materials—particularly steel. Recent reports suggest that this new mega city could require up to 20% of the world’s steel production, a staggering claim that raises questions about its impact on global material markets, prices and availability.

The new mega city – or The Line as it is known - is part of the $500 billion NEOM project, a vast new city that will stretch for 170 kilometres across Saudi Arabia’s northwest region. Designed as a zero-carbon, sustainable urban environment, it is intended to house nine million people in two parallel buildings rising 500 metres above sea level. Each building is expected to be lined with mirrors and will rely on renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar, to power its infrastructure.

The project’s vision is ambitious, but the scale is almost unfathomable. Building a city of this magnitude requires massive amounts of materials. Recent reports suggest that The Line alone could require a significant portion of the global supply of steel—up to 20% of annual production. This revelation was made by NEOM's chief investment officer during an interview with Arabian Gulf Business Insight, stating that NEOM is set to become the largest consumer of construction materials globally for possibly decades to come.

Steel is a core component in construction, offering strength and durability. Globally, around 1.9 billion metric tons of steel are produced annually. For NEOM's The Line to require 20% of that production means it could consume approximately 380 million metric tons of steel over the project's lifespan—a quantity almost equal to the annual production of major steel-producing countries like India and the United States.

The sheer scale of this demand is bound to have ripple effects across global markets. Increased demand often leads to higher prices. NEOM's consumption of vast quantities of steel could drive up prices globally, especially as the project gains momentum. Steel prices are already volatile due to several factors, including post-pandemic recovery, supply chain disruptions and fluctuating raw material costs. Adding a project of NEOM’s scale to the mix could push prices higher, impacting global construction projects. Click link to read more:

#NEOM