Five Ways the Coronavirus has Impacted the Construction Industry

There is no denying that we live in a strange time right now. So many things have changed and the impact of the coronavirus on the world has made it difficult for countries across the globe to do things that we have gotten used to. The impact this virus has had on so many industries since it was first detected, including the construction industry has not only created disruptions but is also long lasting.

In recent months, the vaccines seemed so promising and looked like the virus looked already been defeated. But with the latest mutations, it’s like we’re back to where we started. The construction industry thrives on manpower and manual labor. With the lockdowns continue to be imposed, consequences will certainly transpire.

What are the ways the COVID-19 pandemic impacted the construction industry? Here are five ways.

The slowdown of goods and labor

Like what we have mentioned before, these lockdowns, although deemed necessary to prevent the virus from spreading even further, would eventually affect the market. Each project will need to follow a schedule and meet a deadline. But regulations that limit all movements will cause delays in the delivery of materials that would cause delays in completing tasks. The risk of suspension or termination of projects may also happen depending on standards set by the state which could become a huge financial disaster.

Supply chain management reevaluation

There has to be some form of re-evaluation with how the way things are done, particularly the supply chain management. The early months of the pandemic made it challenging for contractors and suppliers to source building materials, which caused delays in completing projects. And because of the cash flow challenges, it also became critical to pay early to speed up the process. Future interruptions cannot happen again so supply chain management is crucial and the best way to is to adapt – making it flexible when it comes to engaging alternative suppliers.

Work Situations

Prior to the pandemic, workers in the building industry like architects and administrative staff do not have the choice to work from home especially because of the complexities of the work. Meetings or conferences that were normally done face-to-face are now held online through the use of apps like Zoom, Google Meet, etc. Upgrades in digital technology made it easier to communicate while doing remote work. However, it was something that took a lot of getting used to.

Workplace Safety and Security

The industry has always put a prime on the safety and security aspect, but the pandemic gave a whole new meaning to making the workplace safe for everyone. The usual standard operating procedures have become more specific such as the inclusion of temperature checks, protective equipment, social distancing protocol, plus proper hygiene. The risk of work stoppage was high so the industry had to be extra careful.

The future of the industry

The effects of the virus have changed the way we live and the economy will for sure struggle to go back to the way it used to be. In various ways, the pandemic highlighted the many challenges of the industry which were ignored in the past. This was an eye-opener for many, and the future lies in how the industry will be able to adapt to innovations such as automation and robotics. The competition will get more cutthroat and this is something that must be prepared for.