A Lamb Associates Limited

3D Printing: The Future of Construction Labour in the UK?

In this article, Senior Quantity Surveyor Ryan Grey considers how 3D printing technology may impact the UK construction industry.

Introduction

The construction industry in the United Kingdom has long been a cornerstone of the country’s economy, but it faces significant challenges as it grapples with a declining labour force, as previously covered in my previous article; “A crisis of supply. Labour Shortages”.

Skilled construction labour shortages are not a new issue, but they have become increasingly pronounced in recent years, due in part to factors such as Brexit and the COVID-19 pandemic, combined with the fact that the younger generation just doesn’t find construction enticing anymore, preferring more to focus on careers in gaming/online content creation etc.

However, a potential solution is on the horizon – 3D printing technology. In this article, we will explore how 3D printers could revolutionise the construction industry, potentially replacing traditional construction labour while addressing the declining workforce issue.

The UK’s Construction Labour Shortage

The construction industry has historically been a major source of employment in the UK. It provides jobs to a diverse range of skilled and unskilled workers, from bricklayers and carpenters to engineers and architects. However, recent trends have indicated a worrying decline in the number of skilled labourers available to meet the industry’s demands.

  1. Brexit and Immigration Restrictions[i]: The UK’s decision to leave the European Union resulted in stricter immigration policies, which have affected the influx of foreign labourers who traditionally filled gaps in the construction workforce.
  2. Aging Workforce[ii]: Many skilled workers in the construction industry are approaching retirement, and there are insufficient numbers of young professionals to replace them, with the younger generation now seeking less labour-intensive forms of work instead.
  3. Pandemic Disruptions[iii]: The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted labour availability due to health concerns, restrictions on job sites, and workers falling ill. While COVID-19 continues to be a concern, the pandemic has significantly affected the construction industry, with a substantial number of tradespeople leaving and retraining for other professions. They have not returned now that the pandemic is over.

The Rise of 3D Printing in Construction

3D printing technology has evolved rapidly in the last few years and is gradually making its presence known in the construction industry. While it may not completely replace traditional labour (and nor should it), it has the potential to significantly alleviate the labour shortage problem. Here’s how:

  1. Speed and Efficiency: 3D printers are capable of producing building components with incredible speed and precision. This means construction projects can be completed much faster, requiring fewer labour hours.
  2. Reduction in Labour-Intensive Tasks: Many labour-intensive and physically demanding tasks can be taken over by 3D printers, which can work tirelessly around the clock without breaks or fatigue.
  3. High-Quality Output: 3D printing offers unparalleled precision and consistency. The technology can create components that meet exacting specifications, leading to structurally sound and aesthetically pleasing buildings.
  4. Cost Savings: While the initial investment in 3D printing technology can be substantial, the long-term savings on labour costs can be significant. Fewer workers are needed for a shorter duration, reducing wage expenditures.
  5. Safety: 3D printing can reduce the risks associated with accidents and injuries on construction sites, further reducing the burden on the industry’s labour force.

Current Applications of 3D Printing in Construction

Several examples across the globe demonstrate the potential of 3D printing in construction:

  • The Netherlands’ “Project Milestone”[iv]: Dutch companies are developing 3D-printed houses, some of which are already in use. These structures are not only innovative but also energy-efficient and sustainable.

  • Dubai’s “Office of the Future”[v]: Dubai unveiled a fully 3D-printed office building, showcasing the technology’s architectural possibilities.

  • The UK’s “3D Printed Concrete Bridge”[vi]: The UK’s construction industry is not far behind, with experiments in 3D-printed concrete components, such as a staircase leading to a pedestrian bridge.

 

Challenges and Concerns

While 3D printing in construction holds great promise, there are challenges and concerns that need to be addressed:

  1. Initial Investment: The cost of acquiring and maintaining 3D printing technology can be high, which may deter some construction companies from adopting it.
  2. Skills and Training: Construction workers will need to acquire new skills and knowledge to operate and maintain 3D printing equipment.
  3. Regulatory Hurdles: Building codes and regulations will need to adapt to accommodate 3D-printed structures. This process may take time.
  4. Job Displacement: The adoption of 3D printing in construction could potentially lead to job displacement. Companies should make efforts to reskill and retrain workers for roles that complement the technology.
  5. Material Limitations: The materials used in 3D printing need to meet safety and durability standards. Research is ongoing to develop suitable construction materials.

The Path Forward

The construction industry in the UK stands at a crossroads. The declining workforce necessitates a re-evaluation of traditional methods, and 3D printing technology offers a promising alternative; the challenges and concerns stated within this article can all be overcome; or provide a further benefit elsewhere in the project lifecycle.

To make this transition, we can take several steps:

  1. Government Support: The government should support research and development in 3D printing technology for construction and provide incentives for companies to invest in this innovation.
  2. Education and Training: Invest in education and training programs to ensure that the workforce is equipped with the skills needed to work alongside 3D printing technology.
  3. Regulatory Adaptation: Regulatory bodies should work with industry experts to adapt building codes and standards to accommodate 3D-printed structures.
  4. Collaboration: Collaboration between the public and private sectors, including construction companies, technology developers, and universities, can expedite the integration of 3D printing into the construction industry.

Conclusion

Various factors, including Brexit and the COVID-19 pandemic, are exacerbating a critical labor shortage in the UK construction industry. To address this challenge, the industry must consider innovative solutions and 3D printing technology is emerging as a potential game-changer.

3D printing has already demonstrated its capabilities in various construction projects worldwide. While 3D printing may not fully replace traditional construction labor, it can significantly reduce labor requirements. Additionally, it has the potential to enhance the efficiency and safety of construction projects.

As technology evolves and becomes more accessible, the UK construction industry must invest in research, education, and regulatory adaptation. This investment is essential to ensure a smooth transition. Embracing 3D printing is a key aspect of this strategy. It can not only help mitigate the labor shortage but also position the industry for a more sustainable, efficient, and innovative future.

References

[i] https://buildeo.co.uk/2023/04/the-impact-of-brexit-on-the-construction-industry-in-the-uk/#:~:text=Labour%20Shortages&text=Experts%20highlight%20that%20the%20industry,construction%20firms%20to%20remain%20competitive.

[ii] https://pier-recruit.co.uk/how-does-the-age-of-construction-workers-impact-the-construction-industry/#:~:text=The%20construction%20workforce%20in%20the,on%20to%20the%20younger%20generation

[iii] https://committees.parliament.uk/writtenevidence/5656/pdf/#:~:text=Overwhelmingly%2C%20all%20the%20interviewees%20explained,16%25%20had%20lost%20their%20job.

[iv] https://www.3dprintedhouse.nl/en/project-info/project-milestone/

[v] https://www.architectmagazine.com/project-gallery/office-of-the-future_o

[vi] https://www.gcoportal.com/uks-largest-3d-printed-concrete-structure-craned-in/