Five ways to be more productive and sustainable in construction

1. Get smart with your technology
 
We no longer need to rely on brainpower alone to work out the best ways to transform site operations. Digital solutions and technologies such as GPS, telematics, and automation enhance precision in operations, reducing waste and operational errors. By using data analytics, construction firms can improve operational decision-making and predict maintenance needs, enhancing both uptime and delivering a more sustainable way of working.

2. Don’t wait to make the switch to zero-emission solutions

It makes sense that if you remove exhaust emissions, you’re taking strides to increase the sustainability of your operations. And with less maintenance requirements, you can improve uptime. But did you also know that electric technology is so reliable that it can easily match the power and performance of diesel? Our customers know. Richard Sjöblom, Excavator Operator for Skanska, told us: “If I had the choice of an electric or diesel machine, I would choose electric, as there are so many advantages over a diesel machine. When the machine was delivered to site there were many sceptics who thought the machine didn’t have the capacity to last the whole day, but they have all been proved wrong!”

What is more, a versatile range of charging solutions, from fast chargers to mobile power units, can ensure you have all the energy you need to stay up and running for longer, no matter the conditions on site. Pair that with a renewable energy supply and it’s a win for the environment too.

3. Optimize fleet management

Imagine this: you have a huge multi-branded fleet that is responsible for a number of different activities across your operations, maybe even across multiple sites. It’s vital that you have a clear understanding of every movement if you are to maintain optimum productivity. But you can only be in one place at one time, so how do you even begin to track them all? Through site optimization solutions, you can easily track real-time data on location, usage and operator behavior of each machine, no matter the brand. This ensures you have all the information you need at your fingertips to make decisions that will, for example, cut idling, ensure optimum loading and unloading and make cycle routes more efficient. The result? Improved productivity and sustainability.

4. Discover operator training for better results

Reliable and efficient machines play an important part in reducing costs, while increasing productivity and safety, but it is the performance of the operator that really makes the difference. Whether you go with electric or diesel, well-trained operators are crucial to ensure you get the job done in the best way possible. Proper training not only helps operators maximize the efficiency of your machines but also avoids unnecessary wear and tear and helps to eliminate unsustainable practices like engine idling. Whether it’s site simulations or on-site training, there are a variety of options to support operator development to help them unlock the full capability of your machines.

5. Remember the bigger picture

There’s much more to sustainable construction than just the equipment you use. Engaging in lifecycle assessments and carbon reduction programs, prioritizing more sustainable construction methods and setting stepwise targets to keep yourself on track can go a long way to making you more sustainable in the long run. We’ve found that by continuously exploring ways to improve energy savings across our own operations, we also gain cost savings, greater efficiency and quality, and improved employee engagement. These are big wins that extend beyond the already-great advantages of a more environmental way of working.