We all could use a bit more good news these days. Over the last few months, construction firms have been stepping up when it comes to addressing the COVID-19 crisis. Companies have shown incredible resilience and have adapted in these challenging times to serve both their employees and the broader community.
We want to highlight the positive stories that have emerged in our industry over the last few weeks. In our limited series, #ToughAsNails, we’ll be showcasing our favorite inspiring and heartwarming news and stories we’ve seen in the construction industry.
Ready to hear some good news?
Safety is always a priority – both for the essential jobsites currently in operation and for companies planning for project restarts. Leading construction firms like DPR and Rosendin Electric have recently given us an inside look at what safety looks like in the age of social distancing.
Advancements in technology have also emerged to help solve unique health and safety issues on the jobsite. For instance, Autodesk Construction Solutions partner Smartvid.io unveiled a new application for its artificial intelligence platform, Vinnie. Through video monitoring, Vinnie can “work as a virtual safety inspector and determine the distance between any two workers,” according to the company's website. The details of the innovation are also highlighted in a recent webinar.
To support healthcare workers and first responders, construction teams have stepped up to deliver fast and innovative solutions. “These are unprecedented times—and our healthcare sector is performing exceptionally well caring for those afflicted with the virus. By adopting prefabrication, there’s an opportunity for design and construction to accelerate healthcare builds in future, and to deliver beds when and as they are needed,” said Amy Marks, Head of Industrialized Construction Strategy and Evangelism at Autodesk, in a recent interview Building Design & Construction.
“There are a lot of companies stepping up. Many conventional AEC firms like Balfour Beatty, HGA Architects and The Boldt Company, Rosendin Electric and others are responding with prefabricated solutions,” Amy also noted in a Forbes interview.
Here are just a few incredible examples of how construction companies are adapting to address current healthcare needs:
Both construction and technology companies have also been lending a hand and resources to their communities.
We are grateful to all of the health care professionals engaged in the fight against COVID-19.
Pictured here, Kiewit Offshore Services donated 2,500 Tyvek suits and 500 masks to @dchstx in Corpus Christi, Texas. pic.twitter.com/sWgUOfjpKh
— Kiewit (@kiewit) March 23, 2020
A thank you to all the health care heroes doesn’t seem big enough, so we’ve donated these negative air machines to @OttawaHospital. We are forever grateful for all health care workers on the frontlines!❤️#COVID19 #COVIDKindness #pclottawa pic.twitter.com/ncOwEigic8
— PCLConstruction (@PCLConstruction) April 16, 2020
Pets are offering many of us comfort and joy during this time. Autodesk Construction Cloud recently asked its community to share photos of their pets in PPE like hardhats, boots, and safety vests. Here are our favorites to brighten your mood:
For more heartwarming news like #PPEpets and more, follow us on social:
We’ll be sharing more good news in our #ToughAsNails series – but we’d love your help. In the comments below, share the industry stories and news that have inspired you. Your contributions might be featured in our next edition!
