In the last year, the construction industry has faced its share of unexpected change. Many construction firms large and small have had to quickly adapt to new challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, subsequent global supply chain issues, project disruptions and numerous natural and manmade disasters.
Now a couple months into 2021, and with three approved COVID-19 vaccines available to some phase 3 construction workers, there seems to finally be a light at the end of the tunnel for the industry. Similarly, a few positive trends are anticipated to appear this year as the construction industry begins to refocus work priorities and restart previously delayed projects.
Shifting to Essential Work – To help avoid any more delays or disruptions due to COVID-19 safety regulations and local government restrictions, more construction managers are expected to turn their attention to projects deemed essential by their local and state governments. Essential construction projects can differ depending on where the project is located and what that area considers essential, but most projects involve building healthcare facilities, lower income housing, infrastructure and more.
Focus on Workplace Safety – Until the COVID-19 pandemic is under control, masks, social distancing and other COVID-19 safety precautions won’t be going away. Though not all construction managers are expected to require vaccination for their teams, maintaining CDC worker guidelines to reduce risk for customers and employees is expected to remain a top priority in construction.
Anticipating Larger Infrastructure Projects – As part of President Joe Biden’s Build Back Better multitrillion dollar infrastructure plan, U.S. contractors and construction workers will most likely see more infrastructure projects on the horizon. From transportation and renewable energy to flood control and clean water, these projects could help rebuild many areas impacted by natural or manmade disasters from 2020.
Opting for Modular Construction – Projects that were delayed or disrupted in 2020 are anticipated to start quickly picking back up, ultimately shifting priorities toward faster, more efficient modular building options. Many will opt for modular construction to save time and money with faster off-site prefabrication that can help almost any industry, especially amid the ongoing pandemic.
Relying More on Technology – From construction drones to augmented reality and a variety of new 2021 construction apps, the use of technology on construction jobsites is expected to increase this year. More firms will be turning to digital resources to help their teams work quickly and safely to get the job done.
As the construction industry continues to evolve and adjust to changing COVID-19 pandemic needs, it is important for workers to stay vigilant in following updated workplace CDC safety guidelines and changing construction trends. Additionally, it is important to make sure that your workspace can safely accommodate growing teams as projects gain more momentum in the coming months.
Find the Support Your Team Needs to Stay Productive
WillScot can help your team stay productive throughout 2021 by providing all temporary construction office essentials that you need to be ready to work. We’ll take care of everything you need to create a safe jobsite office in record time. Get in touch with a representative from WillScot today.